The winning team - Jim Browning, Joel Haskins, Balbir Minhas, Carey HiteJudy Johnson and Joel Collins
Dr Ron Carroll and the team from our Tournament Sponsor, Palmetto Parkridge Hospital.
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
More Rotary Golf
The winning team - Jim Browning, Joel Haskins, Balbir Minhas, Carey HiteJudy Johnson and Joel Collins
Dr Ron Carroll and the team from our Tournament Sponsor, Palmetto Parkridge Hospital.
Thursday, October 25, 2007
Oct 23 2007
The October 24th meeting of Lake Murray- Irmo Rotary was held in the Chapel of the Department of Juvenile Justice.
Ben Heritage gave a report on the up-coming golf classic to be held at Golden Hills Country Club on October 29th. It was reported that the young men at D.J.J. had raised money to sponsor a hole.
The meeting continued with the officers of the D.J.J. Interact Club being introduced by Ginny Barr. The president of Interact introduced the guests and told of projects to provide reading material for its members and also of a project on International Day through U.S.C.
Antonio introduced Judge Bill Byars who came to D.J.J. in 2003. From 1989 to 1999 Judge Byars was a Family Court Judge. He is a U.S.C. Law School graduate and a former military officer. Judge Byars was recognized for making many changes at D.J.J. including new dress code of khaki pants and polo shirts and the construction of new dorms.
Judge Byars thanked Lake Murray-Irmo for its participation with D.J.J. He said that our club was the first to provide needed equipment for sports programs that were previously unavailable but now include participation in an international league.
He also was very appreciative of the donation of wood-working equipment that has been used for chair production projects and our sponsorship of scholarships at D.J.J.
Judge Byars said that this Interact Club was the first in the World in a facility like D.J.J.
He told of the new programs of Intensive Supervision Officers- that will help young men from D.J.J. to adjust and handle the move back into our communities. These programs have reduced the return rate to D.J.J. by 20%.
He said that they were starting employment programs on the outside with the first 80 hours of salary being covered by D.J.J.
Judge Byars told of the new construction of the Community Connection Center with no state funds at a cost of 3 million dollars. This building will provide meeting rooms and facilities for D.J.J. residents to have privacy to meet with families. Judge Byars again recognized our club as being the catalyst for community involvement at D.J.J.
Reporter W. Lynn Campbell
Ben Heritage gave a report on the up-coming golf classic to be held at Golden Hills Country Club on October 29th. It was reported that the young men at D.J.J. had raised money to sponsor a hole.
The meeting continued with the officers of the D.J.J. Interact Club being introduced by Ginny Barr. The president of Interact introduced the guests and told of projects to provide reading material for its members and also of a project on International Day through U.S.C.
Antonio introduced Judge Bill Byars who came to D.J.J. in 2003. From 1989 to 1999 Judge Byars was a Family Court Judge. He is a U.S.C. Law School graduate and a former military officer. Judge Byars was recognized for making many changes at D.J.J. including new dress code of khaki pants and polo shirts and the construction of new dorms.
Judge Byars thanked Lake Murray-Irmo for its participation with D.J.J. He said that our club was the first to provide needed equipment for sports programs that were previously unavailable but now include participation in an international league.
He also was very appreciative of the donation of wood-working equipment that has been used for chair production projects and our sponsorship of scholarships at D.J.J.
Judge Byars said that this Interact Club was the first in the World in a facility like D.J.J.
He told of the new programs of Intensive Supervision Officers- that will help young men from D.J.J. to adjust and handle the move back into our communities. These programs have reduced the return rate to D.J.J. by 20%.
He said that they were starting employment programs on the outside with the first 80 hours of salary being covered by D.J.J.
Judge Byars told of the new construction of the Community Connection Center with no state funds at a cost of 3 million dollars. This building will provide meeting rooms and facilities for D.J.J. residents to have privacy to meet with families. Judge Byars again recognized our club as being the catalyst for community involvement at D.J.J.
Reporter W. Lynn Campbell
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
Oct 17 2007
Past District Governor, Mack Branham, spoke to us about recruiting and retaining members. Shown here with John Adair.
Friday, October 12, 2007
Oct 10, 2007
District 5 Chairman, Paula Hite
District 5 Superintendent Dr. Scott AndersEn with Paula Hite, Kelly Payne and members of the Interact Club
Report of Lake Murray - Irmo Rotary Club 10/10/2007
Kevin Adams, reporter
After President Beetle Bailey called the meeting to order, Rod Funderburk led us in our opening prayer followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. Next John Hanson welcomed our guests and visiting Rotarians. Lyman Whitehead then brought is his dose of Health and Happiness.
Ginny Barr reminded us for our meeting on 10/24/2007 at the Department of Juvenile Justice that all weapons should be left at home and that the ladies should lock their purses in the trunk of their cars. Everyone should lock their vehicles, too. She will have a pre-approved list of Rotarians visiting that day but if you will have a visitor with you, please be sure and see her as soon as possible so they can be added to the list. The Interact Club will be conducting the meeting and they are very excited about it. Ginny also provided written directions to DJJ for us because she knows the men won’t ask for them.
Ben Herritage reminded us of the upcoming golf tournament on 10/29/2007. We still need more teams. Also, due to the golf tournament, we will not have our regularly scheduled meeting on 10/31/2007.
The Chair of School District 5, Paula Hite, was glowingly introduced by her husband Dr. Cary Hite (he should be out of the dog house for at least a day or two). Paula provided for us a brief biography of the district superintendent Dr. Scott Andersen. Dr. Andersen has been with District 5 for about 1.5 years. Prior to coming to South Carolina, Dr. Andersen spent several years as a school superintendent in the northeast. Along the way he has received numerous awards in the public education arena.
Dr. Andersen conveyed to us the bottom line purpose of his presentation was teaching and learning. District 5 has a stellar reputation as being an excellent school district and the impression he gave was to keep that reputation intact.
In that the last bond referendum was passed in 1996, Dr. Andersen feels our present facilities are woefully inadequate for an anticipated growth of 3,700 students in the next 10 years. In 2003 and 2006, two different community based groups were organized to evaluate two studies that had been prepared regarding the present facilities. Though that process, 9 recommendations have been formally presented to the Board for consideration.
The Board has proposed a $256 million bond referendum to address these facility needs. If approved, the bonds would be paid out over a period of 20 years. Proceeds would be used to renovate nearly all of the elementary schools in the district as well as Chapin High School, Irmo High School and Dutch Fork High School. Further, a new high school will be built along with a new middle school, elementary school and a career and technology center.
Without the bond referendum, Dr. Andersen predicts the growth of students in the district would require an additional 143 portable classrooms over the next 10 years. Dr. Andersen lamented that recruiting for high quality teachers has been hampered because some of the recruited teachers have refused to teach in a portable.
Following a brief question and answer session, President Beetle dismissed the meeting.
Thursday, October 04, 2007
Oct 3 2007
Callee Boulware, SC Coordinator - Reach Out and Read
Rotary Club minutes October 3rd, 2007 Reporter: David Isbell
I. Call to order
II. Invocation (John Adair) and pledge
III. Guest welcome (John Hanson)
a. Adam Amaker
IV. Health and Happiness (Lyman Whitehead)
V. Okra Strut Update
a. Appreciation of support (Jim Wellman)
b. Media coverage nationwide
VI. Golf Tournament Update (Beetle Bailey)
a. Golden Hills October 29th
b. Still need sponsors and teams
VII. Change in meeting location October 24th (Peggy Cavanaugh)
a. Moved to DJJ, directions will be provided
VIII. Speaker Introduction: Stan Bugner
IX. Callee Boulware “ Reach out Read” program
a. Privately funded, national project that provides 4.6 million books to 2.8 million children nationwide
b. Ties reading to health and utilizes physician visits to promote literacy
c. Three tiered approach:
i. Literary waiting area
ii. Doctor reinforcement
iii. Children leave with a book
d. SC initiated program in 1998 and reaches 60-65% Medicaid population
e. Doctors write prescription to read with hope that parents and children more likely to comply
f. Sources of funding and need for private donation
g. Question and answer
X. Happy Dollars
XI. Meeting Adjourned
Tuesday, October 02, 2007
Thursday, September 27, 2007
Sep 26 2007
Picture - Skey Caskey and Danya JordanRotary Meeting Minutes 9/26/07
Rod Funderburk - reporter
President Beetle Bailey presided over the meeting. Theresa Miley led in the invocation, and John Hansen introduced the visitors and guests. Lyman Whitehead provided some words of wisdom for Health and Happiness. Chuck Larsen invited everyone to the grand opening of the new Chamber of Commerce offices Thursday at 5:30 P.M.
Kelly Payne introduced the Rotary Interact sponsored candidate for Dutch Fork Homecoming Queen. Jim Wellman made a plea for participation in the Okra Strut ticket booth, Okra Man display and parade. A reminder for those who signed up will be posted on the blog site.
Patti Cavanaugh introduced the guest speaker, Danya Jordan, who spoke on “Safe Water for a Thirsty World.” Danya is with Water Missions International, which is a Christian Non-Profit Engineering Firm. The firm provides safe water solutions in developing countries and disaster areas. According to Danya 1.1 billion people in this world do not have access to safe drinking water. 25,000 people die each day from contaminated water. A child dies every 15 seconds from water related diseases.
The Water Missions International living water treatment system was originally designed to supply safe drinking water to Honduras after Hurricane Mitch in 1998. There are currently 370 living water treatment systems in place around the world. These systems can treat 10,000 gallons of water per day at a cost of $3.00 per 1,000 gallons. Danya suggested that those interested could contribute their time, their talent and their money to improving the access to safe water around the world.
President Beetle Bailey thanked Danya for her remarks and declared the meeting adjourned.
Thursday, September 20, 2007
September 19 2007
Joel Collins presents a Paul Harris Fellowship to Kelly Payne
President Beetle with Senior master Sgt Jeffery Duncan United States Air Force
Meeting notes for 9/19/07 Lake Murray-Irmo Rotary Meeting:
President Beetle Bailey called the meeting to order. John Adair gave our invocation, followed by our Pledge of Alliance. Lyman Whitehead presented some Health and Happiness. John Hanson announced Ron Althoff as a guest from St. Andrews Rotary Club. Dr. Carey Hite introduced his guest, Dr. Minhas. Dutch Fork High School Teacher Kelly Payne spoke about the completion of our Club’s successful Interact Dictionary Project. She spoke of Dutch Fork’s Valet Day next Friday, which is for parking pass rewards for the Alive @25 Program. We had Interact students as guests at this meeting as well. Joel Collins proudly awarded Kelly Payne a Paul Harris Fellowship Award, noting some of her accomplishments. Kelly received a standing ovation from the Club. Jim Wellman asked for assistance with ticket sales for the Okra Strut and gave an update on volunteers. Ben Herritage gave an update on the October 29 Annual Charity Golf Classic at Golden Hills Country Club. President Beetle said our Club’s DSG project in Mississippi was back to an active status. He also announced publication of a picture on the front page of the September 13, 2007 The Irmo News of our Club’s participation with the Dutch Fork Interact Club 2007 Kickoff on September 10, 2007 at Gatsbees World’s Fair Soda Fountain in Irmo. Herb Harrison told the Club about the MSKP Foundation for Kyle Page and other families with spina bifida and other serious diseases. John Wilkins introduced our speaker, Senior Master Sergeant Jeffery Duncan of Why We Serve, Office of the Secretary of Defense. Sergeant Duncan is the Squadron Superintendent of the 15th Maintenance Operations Squadron at Hickam Air Force Base, Hawaii. He serves as the senior enlisted manager for 486 military, civilian, and Hawaii Air National Guard Technicians. His responsibilities include advising the Commander on all matters affecting the health, morale, and welfare of assigned personnel. He has been in the USAF for 21 years and has served in the United Arab Emirates, in Desert Shield, Desert Storm, Enduring Freedom, Operation Iraqi Freedom and Combined Joint Task Force – Horn of Africa. Among his many accomplishments are his assistance with tsunami relief and other world disasters. Sgt. Duncan spoke about his and others’ military service and also explained about the refueling of jets in flight. Among his many major awards and decorations are the Meritorious Service Medal, Air Force Outstanding Unit Award with Valor and six oak leaf clusters, Air Force Expeditionary Service Ribbon with gold border and one oak leaf cluster and three Bronze Stars. President Beetle thanked him for speaking to our Club and presented him with one of our special Rotary bookmarks. Bob Berry presented a Rotarian Magazine quiz and information on the Four-Way Test. President Beetle then adjourned the meeting.
Reporter Patty Cavanaugh
President Beetle with Senior master Sgt Jeffery Duncan United States Air Force
Meeting notes for 9/19/07 Lake Murray-Irmo Rotary Meeting:
President Beetle Bailey called the meeting to order. John Adair gave our invocation, followed by our Pledge of Alliance. Lyman Whitehead presented some Health and Happiness. John Hanson announced Ron Althoff as a guest from St. Andrews Rotary Club. Dr. Carey Hite introduced his guest, Dr. Minhas. Dutch Fork High School Teacher Kelly Payne spoke about the completion of our Club’s successful Interact Dictionary Project. She spoke of Dutch Fork’s Valet Day next Friday, which is for parking pass rewards for the Alive @25 Program. We had Interact students as guests at this meeting as well. Joel Collins proudly awarded Kelly Payne a Paul Harris Fellowship Award, noting some of her accomplishments. Kelly received a standing ovation from the Club. Jim Wellman asked for assistance with ticket sales for the Okra Strut and gave an update on volunteers. Ben Herritage gave an update on the October 29 Annual Charity Golf Classic at Golden Hills Country Club. President Beetle said our Club’s DSG project in Mississippi was back to an active status. He also announced publication of a picture on the front page of the September 13, 2007 The Irmo News of our Club’s participation with the Dutch Fork Interact Club 2007 Kickoff on September 10, 2007 at Gatsbees World’s Fair Soda Fountain in Irmo. Herb Harrison told the Club about the MSKP Foundation for Kyle Page and other families with spina bifida and other serious diseases. John Wilkins introduced our speaker, Senior Master Sergeant Jeffery Duncan of Why We Serve, Office of the Secretary of Defense. Sergeant Duncan is the Squadron Superintendent of the 15th Maintenance Operations Squadron at Hickam Air Force Base, Hawaii. He serves as the senior enlisted manager for 486 military, civilian, and Hawaii Air National Guard Technicians. His responsibilities include advising the Commander on all matters affecting the health, morale, and welfare of assigned personnel. He has been in the USAF for 21 years and has served in the United Arab Emirates, in Desert Shield, Desert Storm, Enduring Freedom, Operation Iraqi Freedom and Combined Joint Task Force – Horn of Africa. Among his many accomplishments are his assistance with tsunami relief and other world disasters. Sgt. Duncan spoke about his and others’ military service and also explained about the refueling of jets in flight. Among his many major awards and decorations are the Meritorious Service Medal, Air Force Outstanding Unit Award with Valor and six oak leaf clusters, Air Force Expeditionary Service Ribbon with gold border and one oak leaf cluster and three Bronze Stars. President Beetle thanked him for speaking to our Club and presented him with one of our special Rotary bookmarks. Bob Berry presented a Rotarian Magazine quiz and information on the Four-Way Test. President Beetle then adjourned the meeting.
Reporter Patty Cavanaugh
Wednesday, September 12, 2007
September 12 2007
The Rotary Club
Of
Lake Murray-Irmo
Meeting Minutes
September 12, 2007
Reporter: Tim Williams
President Beetle Bailey called the meeting to order.
Ginny Barr gave the invocation.
John Hanson welcomed all guest.
Lyn Richards filled in for Lyman Whitehead and provided Health and Happiness. Lyn also gave an update on the Rotary Foundation and stated there are 15 members who can become Paul Harris fellows for less than $500.00. Lyn stated this year’s goal is $15,500.00
Larry Stohs reminded all that dictionaries are being delivered today by the Dutch Fork High School Interact Club. Larry stated that Kelly Payne needs help driving students back to the High School this morning and requested volunteers.
Jim Wellman gave an update on the Okra Strut and stated additional volunteers are needed for the ticket booth. Jim reminded all that free “T” shirts are provided.
Ben Heritage gave an update on the Golf tournament and stated He has received information from some of the teams but many of the teams have not responded.
Eddie Robinson introduced today’s guest speaker, Byron A. Wiley who is the Director of the Office of Access & Equity for Clemson University. Eddie stated he first heard the phrase: “A chain is only as strong as the weakest Link” from his band director when he was in school. Eddie stated that he did not fully understand the phrase at that time but his experiences at Clemson University have provided some insight into its meaning. Eddie elaborated by saying this phrase can be applied to many situations in life, one of which will be addressed today, which is South Carolina’s weakest link within the K through 12 public education system commonly know as the “Corridor of Shame” . Eddie stated Mr. Wiley heads up the Emerging Scholars Program at Clemson University which provides hope for effecting change for the students who live in this area in the lower part of the state up and down I-95.
Mr. Wiley stated he has been at Clemson University for eight years. He stated the Emerging Scholars Program was started in the summer of 2001. He made reference to a “Tale of Two Highways” as it pertains to South Carolina’s K through 12 public education system. Mr. Wiley stated it is a known fact that when there is a higher tax base in a county the public school system is better and when there is a lower tax base the public school system is poorer. Thus Mr. Wiley stated that this fact is the case in South Carolina. He stated the industrial I-85 corridor has a higher tax base and the more rural I-95 corridor has a lower tax base thus creating some economically deprived counties in the lower part of the state. Mr. Wiley stated the I-95 corridor includes Allendale, Bamberg and Hampton Counties. Mr. Wiley stated he proposed the Emerging Scholars Program not to change the schools within these counties but to change the “product” attending these schools.
The Emerging Scholars Program is a 3 year program that begins at the end of the 9th grade. Students spend one week at Clemson University after their 9th grade year, two weeks after their 10th grade year and 3 weeks after their 11th grade year. The program also provides assistance to students throughout their 10th, 11th and 12th grade years. The cost for this three year program is $5,000.00 per student and is funded through donations and supplemented by Clemson University. The three week summer session creates a college freshman environment where students actually attend classes taught by the University faculty.
Mr. Wiley stated during the program, he actually reveals to these students the secret to success in college which is being able to read and write on the college level. Mr. Wiley stated that 70% of the students that begin this program will complete the program. He stated that 90% of that 70% will apply to different Colleges and Universities. Mr. Wiley stated there are 4 students attending Clemson University that are products of this program.
Mr. Wiley concluded his talk by saying that the drop out rate in Allendale, Bamberg and Hampton Counties can be as high as 20% and in six years there have only been two students who completed this program to drop out of school. Mr. Wiley stated, “I can’t change schools but I can change students.”
President Beetle thanked Mr. Wiley for speaking to the club. After many “Happy Dollars”, President Beetle adjourned the meeting
Of
Lake Murray-Irmo
Meeting Minutes
September 12, 2007
Reporter: Tim Williams
President Beetle Bailey called the meeting to order.
Ginny Barr gave the invocation.
John Hanson welcomed all guest.
Lyn Richards filled in for Lyman Whitehead and provided Health and Happiness. Lyn also gave an update on the Rotary Foundation and stated there are 15 members who can become Paul Harris fellows for less than $500.00. Lyn stated this year’s goal is $15,500.00
Larry Stohs reminded all that dictionaries are being delivered today by the Dutch Fork High School Interact Club. Larry stated that Kelly Payne needs help driving students back to the High School this morning and requested volunteers.
Jim Wellman gave an update on the Okra Strut and stated additional volunteers are needed for the ticket booth. Jim reminded all that free “T” shirts are provided.
Ben Heritage gave an update on the Golf tournament and stated He has received information from some of the teams but many of the teams have not responded.
Eddie Robinson introduced today’s guest speaker, Byron A. Wiley who is the Director of the Office of Access & Equity for Clemson University. Eddie stated he first heard the phrase: “A chain is only as strong as the weakest Link” from his band director when he was in school. Eddie stated that he did not fully understand the phrase at that time but his experiences at Clemson University have provided some insight into its meaning. Eddie elaborated by saying this phrase can be applied to many situations in life, one of which will be addressed today, which is South Carolina’s weakest link within the K through 12 public education system commonly know as the “Corridor of Shame” . Eddie stated Mr. Wiley heads up the Emerging Scholars Program at Clemson University which provides hope for effecting change for the students who live in this area in the lower part of the state up and down I-95.
Mr. Wiley stated he has been at Clemson University for eight years. He stated the Emerging Scholars Program was started in the summer of 2001. He made reference to a “Tale of Two Highways” as it pertains to South Carolina’s K through 12 public education system. Mr. Wiley stated it is a known fact that when there is a higher tax base in a county the public school system is better and when there is a lower tax base the public school system is poorer. Thus Mr. Wiley stated that this fact is the case in South Carolina. He stated the industrial I-85 corridor has a higher tax base and the more rural I-95 corridor has a lower tax base thus creating some economically deprived counties in the lower part of the state. Mr. Wiley stated the I-95 corridor includes Allendale, Bamberg and Hampton Counties. Mr. Wiley stated he proposed the Emerging Scholars Program not to change the schools within these counties but to change the “product” attending these schools.
The Emerging Scholars Program is a 3 year program that begins at the end of the 9th grade. Students spend one week at Clemson University after their 9th grade year, two weeks after their 10th grade year and 3 weeks after their 11th grade year. The program also provides assistance to students throughout their 10th, 11th and 12th grade years. The cost for this three year program is $5,000.00 per student and is funded through donations and supplemented by Clemson University. The three week summer session creates a college freshman environment where students actually attend classes taught by the University faculty.
Mr. Wiley stated during the program, he actually reveals to these students the secret to success in college which is being able to read and write on the college level. Mr. Wiley stated that 70% of the students that begin this program will complete the program. He stated that 90% of that 70% will apply to different Colleges and Universities. Mr. Wiley stated there are 4 students attending Clemson University that are products of this program.
Mr. Wiley concluded his talk by saying that the drop out rate in Allendale, Bamberg and Hampton Counties can be as high as 20% and in six years there have only been two students who completed this program to drop out of school. Mr. Wiley stated, “I can’t change schools but I can change students.”
President Beetle thanked Mr. Wiley for speaking to the club. After many “Happy Dollars”, President Beetle adjourned the meeting
Tuesday, September 11, 2007
President Beetle Out and About
first photo is RI President Wilf Wilkinson and President Beetle
second photo is President Beetle exchanging banners with Sergeant at Arms of the Rotary Club of Key West, FL
second photo is President Beetle exchanging banners with Sergeant at Arms of the Rotary Club of Key West, FL
Interact Club Launch
The Dutch Fork Interact Club had their kickoff on Monday, September 10 at Gatsbee's. First photo is of everyone there, students and Rotarians. Second and third photos are tables of students putting Rotary Club labels on dictionaries. Last photo is John Wilkins eating a giant pickle (not sure how you want to label this one!)Rotarians present were Bill Brooks, Larry Stohs, Nathan Ballentine, John Wilkins and Beetle Bailey
Nathan and Kelly, I'll forward you another email with a few other pictures if you want them for anything. Kelly, let me know which pictures we should send to the Irmo News.
Thanks for an entertaining evening!
Beetle
Sunday, September 09, 2007
Sep 5 2007
Chip Lyerly, Stan Bugner, 
Ellen Shuler, Executive Director S.C. Center for Chidren's Books and Literacy
President Beetle Bailey called the meeting order. Kelley Payne brought numerous Interact Club members from Dutch Fork High School. Lyman Whitehead offered some Health and Happiness.
A sign-up sheet for members wanting to volunteer for the Okra Strut was again circulated. We will need members to work the ticket booth and the Okra Man picture taking booth. The Okra Strut will be held September 28-29.
Eddie Robinson encouraged members to contact him with suggested speakers.
Stan Bugner introduced the speaker, Ellen Shuler. Ellen Shuler is the Executive Director of the SC Center for Children’s Books and Literacy. The SC Center for Children’s Books and Literacy is located in the South Carolina State Library located at the intersection of Senate Street and Bull Street. The SC Center for Children’s Books and Literacy also has facilities in the University of South Carolina’s Children Center. The SC Center for Children’s Books and Literacy mission is to improve literacy among children in South Carolina. South Carolina has one of the lowest literacy rates in the country.
Ben Herritage gave an update on the golf tournament. President Beetle reluctantly turned over the signed Spurrier visor to Ben so that it can be auctioned off or awarded as a prize at the golf tournament.
President Beetle dismissed the meeting after thanking our speaker.
Ellen Shuler, Executive Director S.C. Center for Chidren's Books and LiteracyPresident Beetle Bailey called the meeting order. Kelley Payne brought numerous Interact Club members from Dutch Fork High School. Lyman Whitehead offered some Health and Happiness.
A sign-up sheet for members wanting to volunteer for the Okra Strut was again circulated. We will need members to work the ticket booth and the Okra Man picture taking booth. The Okra Strut will be held September 28-29.
Eddie Robinson encouraged members to contact him with suggested speakers.
Stan Bugner introduced the speaker, Ellen Shuler. Ellen Shuler is the Executive Director of the SC Center for Children’s Books and Literacy. The SC Center for Children’s Books and Literacy is located in the South Carolina State Library located at the intersection of Senate Street and Bull Street. The SC Center for Children’s Books and Literacy also has facilities in the University of South Carolina’s Children Center. The SC Center for Children’s Books and Literacy mission is to improve literacy among children in South Carolina. South Carolina has one of the lowest literacy rates in the country.
Ben Herritage gave an update on the golf tournament. President Beetle reluctantly turned over the signed Spurrier visor to Ben so that it can be auctioned off or awarded as a prize at the golf tournament.
President Beetle dismissed the meeting after thanking our speaker.
Thursday, August 30, 2007
August 29 2007
August 29, 2007
Reporter: Scott Moseley
Substitute President Eddie Robinson called the meeting to order. Nathan Ballentine led us in prayer. There were no visiting Rotarians. We welcomed Kelly Payne who brought several Interact Club members from Dutch Fork High School. Lyman Whitehead offered some Health & Happiness.
Larry Stohs passed around a sign-up sheet for members wanting to volunteer for the Okra Strut. We will need members to work the ticket booth and the Okra Man picture taking booth on Friday night. We will also have a float in the parade on Saturday morning. The Okra Strut will be held September 28-29.
The meeting was then turned over to Ben Heritage. Ben is the Golf Tournament Chairman this year. The Golf Tournament will be held October 29 at Golden Hills CC. This will be our one big fundraiser for the year. Our goal is to profit at least $15,000. Proceeds will be used to support our scholarship program with Dutch Fork High School and other Foundation / Special Projects. Club members have been broken up into 4-person teams. Each team is responsible in getting 2 hole sponsors, 2 team sponsors & 1 individual sponsor.
Dr. Robinson adjourned the meeting.
Reporter: Scott Moseley
Substitute President Eddie Robinson called the meeting to order. Nathan Ballentine led us in prayer. There were no visiting Rotarians. We welcomed Kelly Payne who brought several Interact Club members from Dutch Fork High School. Lyman Whitehead offered some Health & Happiness.
Larry Stohs passed around a sign-up sheet for members wanting to volunteer for the Okra Strut. We will need members to work the ticket booth and the Okra Man picture taking booth on Friday night. We will also have a float in the parade on Saturday morning. The Okra Strut will be held September 28-29.
The meeting was then turned over to Ben Heritage. Ben is the Golf Tournament Chairman this year. The Golf Tournament will be held October 29 at Golden Hills CC. This will be our one big fundraiser for the year. Our goal is to profit at least $15,000. Proceeds will be used to support our scholarship program with Dutch Fork High School and other Foundation / Special Projects. Club members have been broken up into 4-person teams. Each team is responsible in getting 2 hole sponsors, 2 team sponsors & 1 individual sponsor.
Dr. Robinson adjourned the meeting.
Wednesday, August 22, 2007
August 22 2007
Rotary meeting notes: August 22, 2007
Our meeting was called to order today by President Beetle Bailey. Invocation was given by Blount Sheppard. John Hanson recognized our visitors, Kelly Payne and members of the interact club.
Lyman Whitehead shared with our group that Chuck Larsen’s recent surgery did not go as well as anticipated and reminded us to keep Chuck in our thoughts and prayers. He then shared some of his entertaining commentary.
Rod Funderburk was pleased to announce to our club that both of our candidates were awarded scholarships recently. Way to go!
Jim Wellman informed us that the volunteer sign up sheet for the Okra Strut would be available in the near future. This year, the club is seeking children/grandchildren of our members to ride on our float in the parade. Please let Jim know if you have children available/interested. Look for more details on assistance needed for another successful Okra Strut.
The excitement heated up when Beetle asked Skey Caskey to do a quick auction for an Authentic Steve Spurrier signed visor. If you were not present, words cannot describe the fun had by all. Needless to say, the club is $200.00 richer thanks to the generosity of Bob Mosely and Joel Collins and the good nature of our President, Beetle Bailey. If you missed our meeting, call or sit by a fellow Rotarian that was present and ask for details.
Steve Spurrier lands experienced placekicker after recruiting trip to Lake Murray - Irmo Rotary. Beetle Bailey, formerly partial to a different in-state University, shows off his autographed Carolina hat. Beetle says - Go Cocks!!
Eddie Robinson introduced Chip Huggins and our own Nathan Ballentine who provided legislative updates as well as community items:
• They invited us to attend the upcoming Prayer Breakfast at St. Andrews Presbyterian Church on September 27, 2007 at 7:30. Tickets are $8.00 or a table for $250.00.
• There is a Memorial for CPL David Weinmontz(sp?) on August 30th. David was a Dutch Fork Graduate killed at war.
• New law surrounding Gang Violations
• Underage Drinking Laws
• Programs beginning in Middle School for credit, checking acct, etc. Asked for volunteers to assist.
• Department of Revenue errors and its impact on School programs as well as other programs
• Cigarette Tax
• Discussion of our roads and bridges given the recent Bridge Collapse
• Discussion of toll roads--pros vs. cons-status of our toll roads in SC
• AND last but certainly not least the status of the GREEN BEAN Museum
President Beetle dismissed the meeting after thanking our speakers for the opportunity to visit with them.
Our meeting was called to order today by President Beetle Bailey. Invocation was given by Blount Sheppard. John Hanson recognized our visitors, Kelly Payne and members of the interact club.
Lyman Whitehead shared with our group that Chuck Larsen’s recent surgery did not go as well as anticipated and reminded us to keep Chuck in our thoughts and prayers. He then shared some of his entertaining commentary.
Rod Funderburk was pleased to announce to our club that both of our candidates were awarded scholarships recently. Way to go!
Jim Wellman informed us that the volunteer sign up sheet for the Okra Strut would be available in the near future. This year, the club is seeking children/grandchildren of our members to ride on our float in the parade. Please let Jim know if you have children available/interested. Look for more details on assistance needed for another successful Okra Strut.
The excitement heated up when Beetle asked Skey Caskey to do a quick auction for an Authentic Steve Spurrier signed visor. If you were not present, words cannot describe the fun had by all. Needless to say, the club is $200.00 richer thanks to the generosity of Bob Mosely and Joel Collins and the good nature of our President, Beetle Bailey. If you missed our meeting, call or sit by a fellow Rotarian that was present and ask for details.
Steve Spurrier lands experienced placekicker after recruiting trip to Lake Murray - Irmo Rotary. Beetle Bailey, formerly partial to a different in-state University, shows off his autographed Carolina hat. Beetle says - Go Cocks!!
Eddie Robinson introduced Chip Huggins and our own Nathan Ballentine who provided legislative updates as well as community items:
• They invited us to attend the upcoming Prayer Breakfast at St. Andrews Presbyterian Church on September 27, 2007 at 7:30. Tickets are $8.00 or a table for $250.00.
• There is a Memorial for CPL David Weinmontz(sp?) on August 30th. David was a Dutch Fork Graduate killed at war.
• New law surrounding Gang Violations
• Underage Drinking Laws
• Programs beginning in Middle School for credit, checking acct, etc. Asked for volunteers to assist.
• Department of Revenue errors and its impact on School programs as well as other programs
• Cigarette Tax
• Discussion of our roads and bridges given the recent Bridge Collapse
• Discussion of toll roads--pros vs. cons-status of our toll roads in SC
• AND last but certainly not least the status of the GREEN BEAN Museum
President Beetle dismissed the meeting after thanking our speakers for the opportunity to visit with them.
Saturday, August 18, 2007
Aug 15 2007
John Hanson introduced our guest and Lyman Whitehead gave us his normal very funny health and happiness. Lynn Richards gave us a Rotary Foundation update. Eddie Robinson introduced, our speaker, Thornton Kirby, the President and CEO of the South Carolina Hospital Association. Mr. Kirby attended Irmo High School. He received his undergraduate from University of Virginia and his Law Degree from the University of South Carolina. Mr. Kirby discussed the state of Healthcare in 2007. There are approximately 100 hospitals in SC of those 67 are acute care facilities and 33 specialty hospitals. The SC Hospital Association was founded in 1921 and currently has 33 employees. The member hospitals either directly or indirectly have a 10.7 Billion dollar impact on our state. The member hospitals employ directly and indirectly approximately 158,866 employees. The member hospitals pay approximately 435.1 million dollars in taxes to SC.
Currently there is a dramatic shortage of healthcare workers and the emergency rooms are overcrowded. South Carolina hospitals hire 3000 nurses per year and half of all those come from out of state.
A few questions were asked and then President Bailey dismissed our club.
Ray
Currently there is a dramatic shortage of healthcare workers and the emergency rooms are overcrowded. South Carolina hospitals hire 3000 nurses per year and half of all those come from out of state.
A few questions were asked and then President Bailey dismissed our club.
Ray
Tuesday, August 14, 2007
August 8, 2007
Weekly Meeting Minutes
August 8, 2007
Reporter – Stan Bugner
President Beetle convened the meeting and Skey Caskey opened with a prayer. John Hanson introduced our guests: Fred Midway, Dolly Patton, and Brooks and Brice Miley. Lyman Whitehead had Skey lead us in singing Happy Birthday to Jeannette Coulter and Lynn Richards informed us that this was the 25th anniversary of her family moving from Santa Monica, CA. to Columbia.
Rob Funderburk briefly spoke on the scholarships offered by Rotary, the organization that sponsors more scholarships than any other organization in the world. The primary focus of these scholarships is to be an ambassador to the area being visited. The scholarships are administered by the Districts and a very intense interview process is employed in awarding them. Our District awarded two cultural scholarships last year and five ambassadorial scholarships. Our club sponsored one recipient for each of these scholarships.
Rob introduced our guest speaker, Andrew Schwark, the 2005 scholar that we sponsored, who spent 2006 in Senegal. Andrew is a graduate student at USC in the International School of Business. He applied for the scholarship because he values the educational experience of studying abroad and wants to learn about other cultures. He chose Senegal because he speaks French, their primary language, has always been fascinated by Africa and he wanted to view an emerging economy, first hand. Senegal is one of the most democratic states in Africa. He wore a Korite’, the attire worn by men of Senegal for special occasions. In addition to the university study, which he did at the Universite of Gaston Berger in St. Louis, he focused on the study of two native languages/dialects, Palaar and Wolof. He arrived in Dakar, the capitol and urban center of Senegal, where he spent the first month and a half with its 3.5 million inhabitants. Dakar is very crowded, suffers from pollution and much petty crime, and has poor infrastructure. Power outages are a normal part of life in Dakar, which made things uncomfortable in the rather intense heat.
Andrew then went to St. Louis to pursue his university study. St. Louis has colonial architecture, much like Charleston. He primarily lived in university housing and spent weekends with his host family. The mother of this family is a doctor and is president of the local Rotary Club. The Club only had 15 members. However, it was very active, sponsoring many local activities, such as cancer screening. Being a member of Rotary is a status symbol in Senegal.
Andrew found the people of Senegal, who are primarily Islamic, to be very aggressive, outgoing, hospitable, honest and frank. He also learned that the price of everything in Senegal is negotiable, including a taxi ride. He traveled the entire country, visited Morocco and Guinea Bissau, and attended a Rotary district meeting in Cape Verde. Andrew enjoyed the people and the food, rice is the staple of their diet, and feels the experience stimulated personal growth. He concluded his presentation with a slide show of some of his experiences in Senegal.
August 8, 2007
Reporter – Stan Bugner
President Beetle convened the meeting and Skey Caskey opened with a prayer. John Hanson introduced our guests: Fred Midway, Dolly Patton, and Brooks and Brice Miley. Lyman Whitehead had Skey lead us in singing Happy Birthday to Jeannette Coulter and Lynn Richards informed us that this was the 25th anniversary of her family moving from Santa Monica, CA. to Columbia.
Rob Funderburk briefly spoke on the scholarships offered by Rotary, the organization that sponsors more scholarships than any other organization in the world. The primary focus of these scholarships is to be an ambassador to the area being visited. The scholarships are administered by the Districts and a very intense interview process is employed in awarding them. Our District awarded two cultural scholarships last year and five ambassadorial scholarships. Our club sponsored one recipient for each of these scholarships.
Rob introduced our guest speaker, Andrew Schwark, the 2005 scholar that we sponsored, who spent 2006 in Senegal. Andrew is a graduate student at USC in the International School of Business. He applied for the scholarship because he values the educational experience of studying abroad and wants to learn about other cultures. He chose Senegal because he speaks French, their primary language, has always been fascinated by Africa and he wanted to view an emerging economy, first hand. Senegal is one of the most democratic states in Africa. He wore a Korite’, the attire worn by men of Senegal for special occasions. In addition to the university study, which he did at the Universite of Gaston Berger in St. Louis, he focused on the study of two native languages/dialects, Palaar and Wolof. He arrived in Dakar, the capitol and urban center of Senegal, where he spent the first month and a half with its 3.5 million inhabitants. Dakar is very crowded, suffers from pollution and much petty crime, and has poor infrastructure. Power outages are a normal part of life in Dakar, which made things uncomfortable in the rather intense heat.
Andrew then went to St. Louis to pursue his university study. St. Louis has colonial architecture, much like Charleston. He primarily lived in university housing and spent weekends with his host family. The mother of this family is a doctor and is president of the local Rotary Club. The Club only had 15 members. However, it was very active, sponsoring many local activities, such as cancer screening. Being a member of Rotary is a status symbol in Senegal.
Andrew found the people of Senegal, who are primarily Islamic, to be very aggressive, outgoing, hospitable, honest and frank. He also learned that the price of everything in Senegal is negotiable, including a taxi ride. He traveled the entire country, visited Morocco and Guinea Bissau, and attended a Rotary district meeting in Cape Verde. Andrew enjoyed the people and the food, rice is the staple of their diet, and feels the experience stimulated personal growth. He concluded his presentation with a slide show of some of his experiences in Senegal.
Wednesday, August 01, 2007
July 25 2007
Last Meeting
July 25, 2007
Reporter – Chip Lyerly
After the prayer and Pledge of Allegiance, Lyman Whitehead humored us with his weekly Health and Happiness. Joel Collins introduced Ryan who is a graduate of Dutch Fork High School and was a recipient one year ago of one of our club’s Rotary Scholarships. Ryan is beginning his second year at USC and is Biology major.
President Beetle Bailey asked new members Dr. Bill Brooks (PhD) and Dr. David Isbell (MD) to give classification talks about their careers and profession. Bill is a graduate of The Citadel and is now retired from the South Carolina Agriculture Department where he was the Director of their research laboratory. David is a cardiologist practicing in Columbia and a graduate of Duke University and the University of Virginia Medical School.
Dr. Eddie Robison introduced our guest speaker Mike Dawson who is the Executive Director of The River Alliance. Mr. Dawson presented a slide show and spoke to the group about the various projects that have been completed since their formation in 1994. Prior to this time there had not been any comprehensive plans to develop and preserve the natural resources of the three rivers that have their confluence in heart of downtown Columbia. The Three Rivers Greenway was first proposed in 1998 and is a master plan that encompasses approximately 90 miles of river frontage. The first project was the Granby Park which opened in 1998. In 2002 the Ginyard family gave approximately 2½ miles of Congaree River frontage which has lead to the development of the West Columbia and Cayce Riverways. Dawson said that on a typical weekend day 450-500 people per hour are using these walkways for walking, running, biking and other recreational activities. The Riverfront Park in West Columbia opened in 2004 followed by the Mill Village Riverlink in 2005. The Mill Village connects the Olympia Mill area with paths to the USC Strom Thurmond Wellness Center and the USC Greek Village. He said that all of these walkways will eventually be interconnected. The next major thrust for the River Alliance will be the development of the river front walkways from the Gervais Street Bridge on the Columbia side of the Congaree going down past the Cayce rail road bridge south of Blossom Street. In the future the River Alliance would like to develop a pathway all of the ways up the Saluda River to the Lake Murray Dam.
Dawson pointed out to the many upscale residential developments that are underway in the Vista area as a testament to the quality of life people are experiencing with much of the credit being given to the public parkways that have been developed by The River Alliance. Columbia and surrounding municipalities are still in the infant stages of seeing the riverfront be a strong drawing card to tourist and residences back to the downtown are of our Capital City.
President Bailey reminded the Club that this was the last meeting that Molley Cousins would be attending before her corporate transfer to Virginia. Many members gave brief testaments to her leadership of our Club as past President and wished her continued success in her new role with Snelling Personnel.
President Bailey also reminded the Club that next week (August 1st) we will be visited by our new District Governor Mary Martin of Little River and asked that we all try to b in attendance for this important meeting.
July 25, 2007
Reporter – Chip Lyerly
After the prayer and Pledge of Allegiance, Lyman Whitehead humored us with his weekly Health and Happiness. Joel Collins introduced Ryan who is a graduate of Dutch Fork High School and was a recipient one year ago of one of our club’s Rotary Scholarships. Ryan is beginning his second year at USC and is Biology major.
President Beetle Bailey asked new members Dr. Bill Brooks (PhD) and Dr. David Isbell (MD) to give classification talks about their careers and profession. Bill is a graduate of The Citadel and is now retired from the South Carolina Agriculture Department where he was the Director of their research laboratory. David is a cardiologist practicing in Columbia and a graduate of Duke University and the University of Virginia Medical School.
Dr. Eddie Robison introduced our guest speaker Mike Dawson who is the Executive Director of The River Alliance. Mr. Dawson presented a slide show and spoke to the group about the various projects that have been completed since their formation in 1994. Prior to this time there had not been any comprehensive plans to develop and preserve the natural resources of the three rivers that have their confluence in heart of downtown Columbia. The Three Rivers Greenway was first proposed in 1998 and is a master plan that encompasses approximately 90 miles of river frontage. The first project was the Granby Park which opened in 1998. In 2002 the Ginyard family gave approximately 2½ miles of Congaree River frontage which has lead to the development of the West Columbia and Cayce Riverways. Dawson said that on a typical weekend day 450-500 people per hour are using these walkways for walking, running, biking and other recreational activities. The Riverfront Park in West Columbia opened in 2004 followed by the Mill Village Riverlink in 2005. The Mill Village connects the Olympia Mill area with paths to the USC Strom Thurmond Wellness Center and the USC Greek Village. He said that all of these walkways will eventually be interconnected. The next major thrust for the River Alliance will be the development of the river front walkways from the Gervais Street Bridge on the Columbia side of the Congaree going down past the Cayce rail road bridge south of Blossom Street. In the future the River Alliance would like to develop a pathway all of the ways up the Saluda River to the Lake Murray Dam.
Dawson pointed out to the many upscale residential developments that are underway in the Vista area as a testament to the quality of life people are experiencing with much of the credit being given to the public parkways that have been developed by The River Alliance. Columbia and surrounding municipalities are still in the infant stages of seeing the riverfront be a strong drawing card to tourist and residences back to the downtown are of our Capital City.
President Bailey reminded the Club that this was the last meeting that Molley Cousins would be attending before her corporate transfer to Virginia. Many members gave brief testaments to her leadership of our Club as past President and wished her continued success in her new role with Snelling Personnel.
President Bailey also reminded the Club that next week (August 1st) we will be visited by our new District Governor Mary Martin of Little River and asked that we all try to b in attendance for this important meeting.
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