March 29, 2006

President Carey accepts an award on Behalf of the Lake Murray - Irmo rotary Club. The award presented by Jerry Adger, Deputy Director of Rehabilitative Services for DJJ was for "Ongoing service and partnership with DJJ through the support of numerous projects such as the All Star Banquet, Blue Blazers and Pants Suits Project, Earning Your Back Project, DJJ Scholarship Project, Young Craftsmen/Prison Industry Projects (Adirondack Chairs)." Also pictured is our speaker of the day, Nykia.









Joel Collins receives an award from DJJ presented by Jerry Adger and Nykia. The award given to Joel was the "Champions of Children Award" given for his leadership and passionate dedication to the betterment of the youth involved in our juvenile justice system.


Last Meeting
March 29, 2006

Reporter – Skey Caskey

President Carey opened the meeting and George Staples led us in the
invocation. John Hanson introduced our guests.

Beth Olivier, our exchange student, said a few words about her upcoming visit
to Finland and how grateful she is to have this opportunity. She will be
leaving August 5th and is from Irmo High.

Lyman Whitehead gave us another dose of his endless supply of Health and
Happiness.

The annual golf tournament has been rescheduled for July 24th, so please mark your
calendars. Chris Joye shared a letter he received from The Friends of Harbison
thanking the club for all our help in restoring Midlands Mountain Trail.

If anybody wants to go to Wales talk to President Carey. He has all the information.
The group will be departing on May 13th.

Ginny Barr introduced a contingency from the Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ) that included Jerry Adger, Stacey Atkinson, Mike Gannon, and Loretta Neal. Jennifer Gamble, a Guidance Counselor from Columbia College, was also introduced. Ginny then introduced our speaker, Nykia. Nykia read a poem she had written and shared some of the trials and tribulations she had experienced during her young life. With the help and support of others, Nykia has now turned her life around and is a college freshman at Columbia College. She spoke about how opportunities “are everything” and that a good education is paramount to success.

Jerry and Stacey presented President Carey with a plaque expressing gratitude
for our Club’s partnership with DJJ and our efforts to help rehabilitate the young people involved with DJJ. Jerry also presented a plaque to Joel Collins for his ongoing support and leadership in establishing our Club’s relationship with DJJ.

President Carey then opened the floor for “Happy Dollars” with a good number
of Happy Rotarians, none happier than John Adair (ask him about the fire
alarm thing if you missed the last meeting).

Meeting adjourned @ 8:30

March 15, 2006

Reporter – Lynn Campbell
3/15/06

President Carey called the meeting to order and called upon Theresa Miley to bring the invocation.

Guests were introduced and as usual Fred Splittgerber was one of our most appreciated guests. Lynn Whitehead, as expected brought us much happiness with his much-needed humor. Lynn Campbell was called upon to share the great intellectual abilities of the club with the Rotary Magazine quiz. The club members were consistent in knowing very little about the current issue!

Beetle Bailey reported on the up-coming Golf Tournament to be held at Wood-Creek Farms, requesting those members that had not signed-up to try to participate.

Ambassadorial Scholar, Tina Shah was introduced. Tina is currently attending USC Honors College with a double major. She intends to go into medicine.

Molly Cousins introduced our speaker, Mike Daniels from the S.C. Employment Security Commission, who has lead the Research and Planning Administration for 17 years.

S.C.E.S.C. is the state agency that aids job seekers and employers in employment related services. It was reported that the unemployment rate at 6.2% is the lowest since October 2002 and the economy is strong and growing.

S.C. has the 4th highest unemployment rate in the country, the highest being Mississippi at 8.4%. He reported S.C. is one of the top 10 states for small business climate, the leading state being North Carolina.

The economy continues to improve with home building on the rise along with Professional Business Services.

South Carolina continues to have several counties with double-digit unemployment, but much effort is being given to bring these areas back into more favorable employment opportunities.

President Carey thanked Mr. Daniels for his presentation. He then asked for Happy Dollars. Several members contributed to the fund, including “Biker” Caskey reporting on his trip to Daytona Beach



Pictured here Rod Funderburk with Tina Shah.











Mike Daniels pictured here with Patty Cavanaugh.

March 8 2006

Our newest member, Jim Wellman, is inducted by Johnny Jeffcoat and Patty Cavanaugh.



Linda Wells of Carolina Sunshine is presented by Herb Harrison. Also pictured is Jim Gadsden.

Last Meeting
March 8, 2006
Reporter – Si Amick

President Carey called the meeting to order and asked John Adair to lead us in prayer. Harvey introduced our only guest, Fred Splittgerber, and reminded all of the Coins for Alzheimer's. Lyman followed with the Health and Happiness until President Carey asked him to, “Wrap it up.” Patty Cavanaugh presided over the induction of newly approved member Jim Wellman, who was nominated by Johnny Jeffcoat.

Announcements:
Chuck Larson announced that at the Chamber meeting this week the speakers will be Don Murphy and Ross Rucker both with Home Land Security. The Chamber meets at St. Andrews Presbyterian Church at 11:45 on Wednesday morning. Carrabba’s will be providing the meal.

Noveita Roe and Jeanette Coulter invited all to the Chamber Gala and had tickets available for $100.00. Our own Skey Caskey’s band will provide the music, less Skey. A raffle will include 2 sets of box seats to Carolina football, a Diamond necklace and a plasma TV.

President Cary encouraged all to visit the blog site to see pictures from the Harbison trail clean up. Also he noted that we have a jewel in the Harbison State Park.

Skey Caskey is working with the National Stripe Bass Association regarding a fishing tournament. Warren Turner with the NSBA will meet with the Board to discuss what our club can do to promote this in our area. Skey noted this not only is a fishing tournament, but will provide fun and learning opportunities for children. This will take place June 17th which is Father’s Day weekend.

Ray Hunt stressed this is a critical time as we need commitments for the Golf Tournament which will be March 20th.

Molly Cousins noted two opportunities. First, the golf tournament is a great time to introduce new members to our club and we will have a special guest from DJJ on the 29th who will present a story that will amaze you and touch your heart.

Herb Harrison introduced Linda Wells, our guest speaker. Linda is a person who has truly made a difference in our state. The room was noticeably silenced during her presentation. Linda, a professional nurse, was very instrumental in the founding of Carolina Sunshine in1984. She is also co-founder of Camp Chemo at Palmetto Richland.

Carolina Sunshine provides children with life threatening illnesses the opportunity to fulfill their greatest wish. These wishes range from trips to Disney World to shopping sprees worth $1200.00 to $1500.00. Ms. Wells said that it is our responsibility to seek out and provide these children, rich or poor with their wish. These wishes can be a life changing opportunity for the children and their parents. She said there is no greater joy than to see the smiles on the faces of these children. These children and their families need these diversions and it does make a difference.

Carolina Sunshine is for children 3 to 18 years of age. Over 600 wishes have been granted. The amazing thing is that 100% of all monies contributed goes directly to the children. All administration is voluntary by the members and is managed out of their homes or current offices.

Ms. Wells said they also make the wish as memorable as possible. They add special touches such as limo rides and dinners at fine restaurants to the trip. She said these could be “life changing events” in the lives of these children. She shared with us the mother with two children battling cancer and their trip to Disney World. After the trip the mother told Ms. Wells that it was the happiest time of their lives. That mother later lost both children.

Ms. Wells closed with the following thought, “If you think you are having a bad day, please think of these children.”


At today's meeting we inducted our newest member, Jim Wellman. Linda Wells spoke to us about Carolina Sunshine - an organization that helps children with cancer. Full report to follow.

We Help Cut a Trail at Harbison State Forest

Saturday March 4th - we're out early to move some dirt at Harbison State Forest. Thanks to the Dutch Fork Rotary Interact Club for lending their young backs.



Summer Gaither Blount Shepard and Patty Cavanaugh
Mark and Chris Joye


Joel Price

Blount Shepard and Gary Williams dig deep

These Kids don't sleep in on Saturday - Thanks for your help.

Not pictured Rosalie Browning, Jason Brown, Patty and Carolyn Joye, Carey Hite

March 1 2006

Left to Right Harold Crawford, Heather Hornsby, Jim Jeffers

Full report to follow.

Last Meeting
March 1, 2006

Reporter – Jeff Baldwin

President Carey opened the meeting, followed with prayer by Chris Joye and the
Pledge of Allegiance. Guests and visitors were introduced along with a
welcome to our new transfer member, Ben Harrison. Lyman Whitehead and
President Carey offered some Health and Happiness.

Announcements:
Molly Cousins noted our Golf Tournament coming up 20 March, shot gun start at
noon. Get your teams signed up and we also need additional corporate
sponsors. Beetle Bailey is our lead.

Saturday is the date of Harbison Forest Trail maintenance project. Chris Joye noted our effort would be in two shifts, 9am and 1pm.

Herb Harrison offered a correction to last week’s Bulletin - gang presence at
Sonic is an urban myth. Bulletin should have read “no gang activity at the
Sonic…” Chapin Chamber of Commerce sponsoring Oyster Roast on St Patrick’s Day and upcoming Golf Tournament. Herb has information on both.

Jim Jeffers provided details of the upcoming GSE Team visit from Brazil. Lake
Murray cruise on Southern Patriot scheduled for Thursday, April 13th, which
will be our meeting for the week. Host families still needed - see Jim. Jim
introduced Heather Hornsby of the Lexington Club who was a GSE Team member on recent trip to India. Heather discussed the selection process and the overall GSE program, from speaking to Rotary Clubs, living with host Rotarians, and immersing yourself in another country and culture. India’s diversity and
difference from our own country were clear as she described their utility
systems, transportation experiences, the constant presence of masses of people
regardless of the hour, debris and poverty, and the haggling over the price of
everything.

President Carey initiated a discussion on our present location as it relates
to attracting and keeping our membership. Possible alternative sites were
discussed as were opinions on the state of the membership, both in numbers
and attendance. Our membership has slipped from 67 to 62 over the past year
but even worse is the attendance of 60%. More to come on all of these issues.

Si Amick noted the recent break-in and robbery of HomeWorks including all of
their equipment and supplies. He urged individual as well as Club
consideration of assistance to this vital community organization that helps so
many in need.

Wednesday February 15th

The Rotary Club of Lake Murray - Irmo
Last Meeting
February 15, 2006
Reporter – Barry Johns
President Carey Hite called the meeting to order. Jim Gadsden opened with the invocation that was followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.
Introduction/Announcements: Harvey Hoots introduced two visiting Rotarians: Dr. Fred Splittgerber, St. Andrews – Columbia and Ben Heritage, Chapin. President Hite announced that Ben Heritage’s application to move his membership from Chapin to Lake Murray – Irmo had been submitted to the Board that will meet at 7:30 a.m. on February 16, 2006. He also asked Rotarians to write to Ron Calvin, Principal of Dutch Fork High School, on behalf of Kelly Payne and INTERACT. An additional announcement was the date for clearing the running trails at Harbison State Forest on March 4, 2006.
Beetle Bailey reported that the Spring Golf Tournament at Woodcreek Farms was moving forward, yet more sponsors and players are needed for the March 20th event. The cost to field a team is $425.00 per team.
Joel Collins made an appeal to the Club and the Board regarding membership and attendance. Thirty-two out of sixty-five members were in attendance for this meeting.
John Adair announced that U.S. Congressman, James E. Clyburn, will not be the guest speaker on February 22, 2006.
Other Actions: Joel Collins distributed pictures of the young men at DJJ wearing the Club’s donated blazers at a special event, the All-Star Banquet.
Lyman Whitehead entertained us with some South Carolina humor during Health and Happiness. There were no birthday announcements.
Guest Speaker: William C. "Billy" Gibson
Billy was introduced by Chuck Larson as a life long resident of South Carolina and a forty year veteran of law enforcement. He has served as Chief Deputy, Police Chief, Public Safety Director, and Director of the S.C. Criminal Justice Academy. He is a U.S. Air Force veteran and a graduate of the F.B.I. National Academy. He and his wife, Phyllis, have two children and four grandchildren.
He addressed the following points concerning South Carolina Law Enforcement:
Prior to the late 1960’s, there was no formal training for Law Enforcement.
In 1967, training needs were assessed, and in 1968, training began at SLED.
In 1970, the S.C. Criminal Justice Academy was started. In the beginning, $1.00 of each traffic ticket went to fund the Academy. It has since increased.
S.C. Department of Public Safety now manages the Academy.
Billy closed by asking each one of us to "thank a law officer when we are pulled over for helping fund training." Billy was then presented a Rotary mug by President Hite and a Rotary pin by Patty Cavanaugh.
Happy Dollars: Skey Caskey for an empty nest; Kevin Adams for 19th wedding anniversary; Chuck Larson for a grandson training with the Airborne; and Carey Hite for his wife’s winning at Bingo.
Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned by President Hite.

February 8th

Si Amick introduces Hank Chardos. Hank spoke to us about the history and current projects of Homeworks.

Last Week
Feb 8, 2006
Reporter: Blount Shepard

President Carey called the meeting to order and reminded everyone to sign up for the District 7770 Conference scheduled for March 23 - 26.

INTRODUCTIONS/ ANNOUNCEMENTS: Sgt. at Arms, John Hanson introduced the visiting Rotarians and guests and started the CART fund coins for Alzheimer’s research. “Beetle” Bailey reported on the scheduled Spring Golf Tournament at Wood Creek Country Club. The tournament will take place March 20th. Get your sponsors, players and prizes to Beetle as soon as possible. Chuck Larsen informed the club of the Chamber luncheon where the speaker is to be Satch Krantz of the Riverbanks Zoo.

Joel Collins made an appeal to the club regarding membership and attendance. We are members of a great organization and our club has potential to support many others in our community who share the values of Rotary International. Let’s actively recruit others we come in contact with that support the Rotary objectives of world peace and understanding and service above self. Also, be conscience of your own attendance record so the directors do not have to make an uncomfortable phone call.

IN OTHER ACTION: Lyman Whitehead told us how to “break the curse” during Health and Happiness. He only needed to know the exact wording of the curse. In response someone said, “I now pronounce you man and wife”! President Carey thanked all members and Interact members that supported Blount Shepard in his efforts to coordinate Adopt-A-Hwy cleanup last Saturday. Blount also thanked those responding to the call and let everyone know that 20 bags were delivered to the landfill amounting to approximately 300 lbs. Not mentioned was the superbowl theme at the cleanup breakfast. Grits were served in a Steelers helmet and Lynn Campbell gumbo w/ venison sausage was served in a Seahawks helmet. Happy Dollars for Lyn Richard’s sale of her business; Safe travels by Ervin returning from Arkansas and for Joel and Rhonda headed to Florida; and Skee still can’t get over that his “little girl” is out on her own making her own money.

GUEST SPEAKER: Hank Chardos – Founder and Director of Homeworks†.
Alumni speaker Hank Chardos was welcomed back and he informed the club about the current projects being done by Homeworks†. He addressed their effort as follows:

Next One Day Blitz in the greater Columbia Area: Saturday April 29, 2006.
They have made improvements to over 800 houses in the last 10 years.
Churches, Building Departments and homeowners contact Homeworks† for help.
Homeworks† Emphasis:
Care and concern of volunteers for the client (homeowner).
Start with prayer. Live out the gospel message to care for one another.
Safety specific and general
Requirements for clients: Must own their home (no rentals); financial need.
They need more adult volunteers. They could be doing more if they had more adults.
There are more young adult girls volunteering than boys.
They have a new warehouse space, but are in a search for an office for 3 people.

Hank closed thankful for the upcoming 1st meeting of the Homeworks† Advisory Board on March 30th which will launch Homeworks† into a much larger playing field.

Adopt A Highway Feb 06

Club Members Jim Jeffers, Patty Cavanaugh, and Eddie Robinson and the Interact Club combine forces for our clean up project on Farming Creek Road. We also enjoyed a great breakfast courtesy of Blount Shepard .










Pictured here - Kelly Payne and members of the Dutch Fork Interact Club.

Wednesday January 25th 2006

Dr. Marsh Willis gave us an "owner's guide to your digestive tract". Full report to follow on this site.


Last Meeting
January 25, 2006

Reporter – Ervin Ott

President Carey called the meeting to order.

Lynn Richards provided Health and Happiness information that we can use everyday; It is against the law to keep horses in the bath tub and it only costs $500.00 to blow up a nuclear device in California…WHAT A DEAL!!

Our speaker, Dr. Marsh Willis, gave us the insight on Gastrointestinal Disorders.

It pays to keep your eyes open before you flush to make sure there are not any
telltale signs of trouble. IF YOU EVER SEE BLOOD CALL YOUR DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY AND HAVE THIS CHECK OUT.

Make sure you CHEW YOUR FOOD WELL before you swallow. Always sandwich your pills with water before you take your pills, and water after you swallow. Good stuff in-good stuff out is the best advice.

Helicobacter Pylori is the major cause of cancer. LOOK IT UP!

The new thing in town is the New Food Pyramid. Go to WWW.MYPYRAMID.GOV to down load the latest food pyramid.

DRINK LOTS OF WATER...AND NOT TOO MUCH OF THE “GOOD STUFF.”

If you are 50 years old, and have not already done so, please make yourself and appointment today to have colonoscopy. I did and I had five polyps removed the first time and two more five years later.

If you are looking for a good Proctologist, Dr. Willis, my doctor, is highly recommended. For additional information go to www.Columbiagastro.com.

Adopt a Highway is Feb.4th. Sign-up for the February 24th work day on the trails at Harbison State Forest is coming up soon.

January 18th 2006

At today's meeting we welcomed our speakers John Hardee, SC Highway Commissioner, and Brian Keys, Department of Transportation. Pictured left to right Patty Cavanaugh, Lyman Whitehead, John Hardee, Brian Keys.

Patty Cavanaugh inducts our newest member, Barry Johns.

January 18, 2006
Reporter – Johnny Jeffcoat


President Carey called the meeting to order. Bob Berry opened with prayer.
Lyman Whitehead shared his usual humorous jokes.

Lynn Campbell provided a review of the January Rotarian magazine. The Rotarian had an article about drugs bought from Canada. If you have serious complications from Canadian drugs, you have no right to sue for damages. Another article told that 852 million people are hungry in the world every day.

President Carey asked if anyone was interested in going to Wales as part of an exchange student program. He also informed us that the District Conference will be held in Charleston, SC on March 24th. Our Board will be meeting at 7:30 a.m. tomorrow morning, 1-19-06, at Three Rivers Medical.

Patty Cavanaugh inducted our newest member, Barry Johns into the club.

Johnny Jeffcoat introduced our guest speaker, John Hardee, SCDOT Highway Commissioner. John then introduced Brian Keyes, Project Manager for SCDOT. Brian gave an overview of road projects in our county. Following are some of the highlights:
 SCDOT owns 60% of all South Carolina roads and the remaining 40% are owned by towns and municipalities.
 The cost of paving roads is about $400,000 per mile.
 Phase II of the airport expressway project will give a direct connection to I-26 from the airport.
 The Hwy. #6 Lake Murray Dam Project connecting Irmo and Lexington is scheduled to be completed in late 2007. Contractors are being given incentives to complete the project on time.
 South Carolina is a donor state, so we get 90% of our gas tax back from the federal government.
 South Carolina leads the nation in highway fatalities.

Our speaker next week will be Dr. Marsh Willis who will address gastrointestinal disorders.

January 11th 2006

January 11, 2006
Reporter – Mickey Epting
President Carey Hite called the meeting to order.
Three visitors were welcomed to the club meeting. Lyman Whitehead got us off with a laugh with some humorous jokes. Patty Cavanaugh welcomed and introduced our newest member – Summer Gaither.
Molly Cousins introduced our speaker, Captain Delphin Gantt, a F16 Fighter Pilot with the SC National Guard at McEntire. Captain Gantt pointed out that McEntire had changed and benefited from the recent base closures. McEntire’s name has changed to the McEntire Joint National Guard Station, with Army units and Helicopter units, as well as the Air Force F16 Fighter Squadron.
Captain Gantt gave an interesting talk about the F16’s, complete with a large model to demonstrate. He stated that McEntire now has eighteen F16’s and will pick up an additional nine because of other base closures. They have 10 full time pilots and twenty-six part time. Over 90% of the pilots have combat experience. He said the F16 Fighter is sometimes referred to a "single seater, single engine, 9G killing machine." The fighter can fly at over 1500 mph, or two times the speed of sound. Captain Gantt’s flight time from Columbia to Myrtle Beach is around ten minutes. When he turns on his afterburner the plane is burning fuel at the rate of five gallons a second. The South Carolina F16’s have been on duty in both Afghanistan and Iraq knocking out air defenses and proving air support for the ground troops. Captain Gantt ended by saying that McEntire welcomed visitors to the base to tour the facilities.
Prior to concluding the meeting everyone was reminded that Adopt a Highway Day for the club would be on February 4.

January 4th, 2006

Lake Murray/Irmo Rotary Club
January 4, 2006
President Carey Hite called the meeting to order and Rod Funderburk gave the invocation. Ginny Barr reported that the Board had approved two $500 scholarships for DJJ students who were interested in taking courses at Midlands Tech. One recipient of the scholarship is enrolled in two courses this semester thanks to our Rotary club.
Harvey Hoots welcomed two visitors to the club. Lyman Whitehead relayed a humorous story to the attendees. Beatle Bailey has graciously agreed to serve the office of Vice-President due to the resignation of Michael Seguin who has agreed to continue his membership in our club. Mischa Sing, a Rotary scholarship recipient, reported that she is a freshman at the College of Charleston and is studying Biology and Psychology. The St. Andrews Rotary Club venue has closed and future meetings will be held at Fire Mountain in Irmo. Members were reminded of the goal of 10% increase in membership and all present were asked to help increase the membership in the organization.
Molly Cousins introduced the guest speaker, Thomas Scott, who is an Ambassadorial Scholar and was sponsored by the Forest Acres Rotary Club. Thomas spent the last 11 months in Capetown, South Africa and is currently studying economics and politics. Thomas gave an excellent presentation on his experience in South Africa with an emphasis on three topics: race, culture and ethnicity, HIV/Aids and "Brain Drain."
President Hite closed the meeting with Happy Dollar time.
Respectfully submitted,
Judy Johnson

December 7th, 2005

December 7, 2005
Reporter – Noveita Roe
President Carey Hite called the meeting to order and Barry Johns gave the invocation. Patty Cavanaugh gave us an update on the Christmas Party to be held at the Ascot Club House on December 14th. President Carey spoke about the Paul Harris Society Foundation and asked everyone to consider becoming a member.
Larry Stohs spoke about our International Project in Jamaica, which has been revived. Ritchie Tidwell has managed to get a grant that will match our contributions. We are currently working on putting a fence around the soccer field so the children will not have to chase the ball down the side of the mountain.
Joel Collins spoke about the DJJ All Star Banquet he attended Tuesday night. There were over 200 people in attendance and our Rotary Banner was displayed. Awards were presented to 50 young people for their achievements in Academic Enrichment, Spiritual Development, Sports and Fitness, and Youth Leadership. The Lake Murray-Irmo Rotary Club, Honorable Joseph F. Anderson Leadership Award was also presented. Nearly every award presented was sponsored by our Rotary Club. In addition to receiving their special recognition awards, the kids were very proud and thankful to be wearing the new clothing we recently donated for this, as well as future special events. The Director of DJJ, Judge Bill Byars, told Joel how much he and everyone at DJJ appreciated our ongoing contributions and participation.
Molly Cousins and Ginny Barr provided classification updates. Molly will be celebrating her 17th wedding anniversary Friday, and has been with Kelly Services for 16 years. She is currently working on another degree. As soon as she finishes, Molly is planning to go to law school. Congratulations Molly!! Ginny has been in the justice system for over 30 years and is currently with DJJ.
Skey Caskey led us in a spirited round of Christmas carols and the meeting ended with Happy Dollar time. We will next gather at the Ascot Club House for our Christmas Social on December 14th at 7:00 p.m. Our next regular Wednesday morning meeting will be next year, January 4, 2006.

Wednesday November 30th

We welcomed Judge Dan Eckstrom. Dan enlightened us about the workings of the probate court.




Joel Collins helps us celebrate an unexpectedly large club donation of over $1000 for our DJJ Blue Blazer Project. Congrats, Joel!!!





November 30, 2005
Reporter – Joel Price
President Carey called the meeting to order and Skey Caskey gave the invocation. Health and Happiness was provided by our very own Lyman Whitehead. Ray Hunt gave an update on our Christmas party which will be on December 14 beginning at 7pm at Ascot Club House - Skey Caskey and his band will be providing the entertainment. Harvey Hoots introduced our guests and visiting Rotarians.
Joel Collins gave us an update on our DJJ project. Through a contact with Belk Department Stores we will be able to purchase 25 blue blazers for $32.00 each. These normally retail for $80.00 each. Joel passed the pot around hoping that we would collect enough money to offset the total cost of $800.00. We collected $1009.00. Joel and Stacey Atkinson from DJJ invited us to attend DJJ’s All Star Banquet on December 6 beginning at 5:30pm. Stacey gave us an update on the $350.00 we gave to DJJ last year. These funds will be used to purchase black pants, black jackets, and white shirts for the girls to wear.
Terry Klosterman of the Spring Valley Rotary Club talked to us about supporting the sale of a variety of nuts. Proceeds will go to the Gift of Life Fund.
John Adair introduced Judge Dan Eckstrom, Lexington County Probate Judge, as our guest speaker. This is an elected position. Judge Eckstrom has a staff of 8 with a budget of about $500,000.00. Most of these funds come from fees collected through the court. The Probate Court administers or oversees about 1200 estates a year. The court also issues about 1200 marriage licenses per year. Dan did tell us that about 5% of the people who submit a marriage license application do not come back after 24 hours to pick them up. Cases concerning individuals with mental illness and substance abuse issues also go though this court. The decision here is to determine if an individual needs to be admitted to a treatment facility.

Fall Social November 2005

Hope you were there for the Fall Social.

Great Oysters and Fellowship

Who said the gulf had the best seafood?

Don't worry, the Christmas social is only a month away. We'll save you some.

Meeting of November 2nd

Beetle Bailey hosted our program with our speaker Angie Sisk. Ms. Sisk enlightened us about the disease "Maccular Degeneration", and asked Beetle the question that has no answer "how about those Gamecocks?" Please contact Beetle personally for his answer. Also joining Beetle for the presentation was his wife Debra (shown here closest to the flag). Full meeting report will follow on this site.


Last Meeting
November 2, 2005
Reporter – Patty Cavanaugh
President Hite brought the meeting to order with Kevin Adams giving the invocation. Molly Cousins gave a report on the dictionary project, sharing endearing thanks received from River Springs Elementary students. Ray Hunt updated us on the Fall Social Oyster Roast to be held Wednesday, November 9 at Inglewood Manor. He requested a volunteer (because of a resignation) to find sponsors and to oversee the Annual Golf Tournament. December 14 is our Christmas party, to be held at Ascot Club House. Chris Joye reported that the Harbison project is in progress. Chuck Larsen announced the Irmo Chamber’s Annual Auction to take place on November 17 to benefit five charities and Irmo High School.
Beetle and Debbie Bailey introduced Angie Sisk, an Occupational Therapist from Palmetto Health Baptist Hospital (296-5486), who presented a program on macular degeneration. MD is related to aging; the macular (part of retina in back of eye) degenerates, central vision is lost, and peripheral vision remains -- more than 10,000,000 Americans are affected. By age 75, more than 15% have MD. It is the leading cause of blindness over the age of 55. There are two types of MD, with dry MD being less severe than the wet form. Causes of MD are genetics, age related, nutrition, smoking, sunlight exposure and being Caucasian. MD limits safety – contributes to falls and injuries, limits independence and socializing. There is no cure, but treatments include laser and occupational therapy and teaching patients to use vision most effectively. Prevention of MD: 1. Wear UV eye protection; 2. diet high in fruits and vegetables, especially leafy green; 3. stop smoking or inhaling secondhand smoke, and 3. exercise regularly. Prescription antioxidants can be obtained. Avoid partially hydrogenated oils; use olive, canola, flaxseed or safflower oil. A number of community resources are: reduced bus fare, Pitts Eye Fund, MD Support Group at 779-4449, State Library talking books 734-4611, Commission for the Blind (898) 398-8787, and Shepherd’s Center on Trenholm Road. Occupational therapy is covered by Medicare and medical insurance.
After thanking Ms. Sisk and presenting her with a Rotary pen, President Hite adjourned the meeting, with a reminder that the Fall Social Oyster Roast will take the place of a regularly scheduled Wednesday meeting next week.

Wednesday Oct 26th - Inez Tenenbaum

John Adair hosted the program, inviting Inez Tenenbaum who spoke to us about the accomplishments and challenges of education in South Carolina. Full meeting report will follow on this site.
Meeting report from Bob Berry
Dr. Carey Hite opened the meeting with a congratulations to Dr. Judy Johnson and her committee for our auction. He went on to say that the money will be used to fund our projects this year. Chris Joye asked us to be involved in the Harbison Forest Trail clean-up. We need 6-8 folks who will assist in the trail cleanup. It will be February or March of 2006. Pease put it on your calendar. Our fall oyster roast social is November 9 at Inglewood Manor. Let Ray Hunt know if you’re coming.
John Adair introduced Inez Tenenbaum, State Superintendent of Schools. Inez began her talk by covering the history of education reforms while she has been in office. She talked about the Education Accountability Act in 1999 which created standard testing for math, science and history. She also discussed the "No-Child Left Behind Act."
She also said that our state is unfairly ranked in the SAT because over 62% of our students take the SAT wherein some other states, less than 20% of the students take the SAT. She suggested that all of us could help prepare our children to take the SAT by encouraging them to take the PSAT and by reading to our children. She said that by 2014, every child must be proficient in reading. Some states, she said, will have to raise their standard in order to meet this criterion. Our state already has a very high standard so we are going to have to work to reach our goal. We can find out more about this at www.schoolmatters.com.
Even though we have raised our SAT scores 42 points we face five big challenges in South Carolina:
1. The current equity funding suit between the poorer counties and the wealthier counties.
2. Early childhood education.
3. Gangs, truancy, culture and criminal activity.
4. SAT improvement plan.
5. Rediscovering career-oriented education in our high schools.
In conclusion, she asked us to encourage our educators.
Thank you Jenny for the tireless job you do with our newsletter.

Fund Raiser Auction October 14th

Auction and Taste of Irmo was a Big Hit. Thanks to all members for making our Fall Charity Fund Raiser a huge success. Attendance was terrific. Comments were uniformly positive.



Special thanks to Judy Johnson for her extraordinary efforts. Judy worked tirelessly and without complaint for weeks to insure the success of this project. Once again Kelly Payne (sponsor) and the Dutch Fork Interact Club were there with their strong young backs to help with the facility set up.

Kudos to Teresa Miley for help with planning and coordination of our food vendors. Special thanks also to all of you who assisted with special jobs during the event including Patty Cavanaugh (tickets), Jeff Baldwin (refreshments), Ashley Rider and Jason Brown (auction assist). Chuch Larson and the Irmo Chamber were very generous with auction items and facility preparation. Thanks to the Babcock Center (Judy again) and DJJ (Ginny Barr).
(This from Judy J)A few further acknowledgements to Rotarians who graciously assisted behind the scenes include Jeanette Coulter for getting local merchants to donate the majority of the food at the auction, Beatle Bailey for serving as bartender along with Jeff Baldwin, Paul Lundy for assisting with the Art work, Eddie Robinson and Ashley Rider who worked SO hard tearing down the tables and chairs, Mike Seguin who also helped with clean-up and of course, thanks to all the Rotarians who helped get donations for the live and silent auctions ( Carey Hite, Joel Price, Harold Crawford, Theresa Miley, Beatle Bailey, Nathan Ballentine, Ginny Barr, George Staples, Marty Bocock, Lynn Campbell, Joel Collins, Chuck Larsen and Larry Stohs). And let me not forget Bill Danielson who, along with his wife, wrote the biggest check of the evening (Peggy also assisted at the cashier's desk). Thanks also to our food sponsors (be sure to thank them by visiting their businesses). Special thanks to Palmetto Health for allowing us to use their facility. I am told that our financial goals were greatly exceeded. These funds will assist us in maintaining our high level of support for our community projects. CH

Wednesday Meeting October 12th

Minutes - recorded by Jason Brown

The meeting was opened by prayer from John Adair. Judy Johnson spoke about the art auction to be held Friday night at Palmetto Park Ridge Center. President Carey Hite spoke about incorporating the district.
Patty Cavanaugh returned from Her trip to Hollywood where she attended the Hollywood Rotary Club and exchanged banners. She was also presented with a "Walk of Fame Star Pin."
We had the Irmo Chapin Recreational Commission talk to our group about what they do, and what projects they are working on for the future. The bond referendum was turned down last year by a very slight margin, so they have changed the 2005 referendum as outlined below. At the end of the session a question was raised about buying the golf course and making it open to the public. The commission is looking into it, and would like to buy the course.

Below is an outline of the projects the Irmo Recreation Commission is working on, and an outline of the 2005 Referendum.


What is the future of recreation in your community?
Should you invest in recreation and wellness for senior citizens, children and families? Based on community feedback, the Irmo Chapin Recreation Commission will present a new proposal for district voters to consider on November 8, 2005.


2005 Referendum Projects

CHAPIN
 4 Soccer Fields
 4 Baseball Fields
 Family Recreation Pool & Playground
 Trails
 Additional Exit Road
 Chapin Theater ($500K match for private funding)

IRMO
 Community Center
- Indoor Walking Track
- Multi-court Gymnasium
- Multipurpose/Activity Rooms
- Fitness Facilities
 4 Soccer Fields
 SOP Baseball Improvements
 Family Recreation Pool & Playground
 10 Tennis Courts

SALUDA SHOALS PARK
 SSP Expansion
- Access Road to new riverfront property
- 4 Shelters in new park area
- 2 Restrooms in new park area
 Amphitheater ($500K match for private funding)
 Skate Park Upgrade

Referendum TOTAL $23,075,000

For additional information about this proposal,
please call 772-1228

Adopt-A-Highway

It's amazing how a little sausage, eggs, grits, coffee, and shrimp will get people out of bed to help with Adopt-A-Highway. The younger members of this picture are part of our Interact Club with their sponsor Kelly Payne. Everyone had a good time and a great meal.

Our Meeting Wednesday October 5th

Lake Murray-Irmo Rotary Club Meeting
October 5, 2005
Reporter- Ashley Rider

The meeting was opened with prayer led by Joel Collins. Harvey Hoots introduced guests and visitors, which again included several members of the Dutch Fork High Interact Club, accompanied by Kelley Payne. Beetle Bailey introduced guest Barry Johns, the new owner of Sign-A-Rama in Irmo. Blount Shepard commented on the turnout and support for last Saturday’s Adopt-A-Highway cleanup, indicating that the event was well attended by the Interact Club. Kelley Payne made the club’s work easy this year. The shrimp and grits were outstanding and in 45 minutes participants picked up 20 bags (300 lbs.) of trash.
President Hite commented on the positive feedback that he has received regarding the club’s new meeting location at Salem United Methodist Church and thanked Joel Collins for his efforts in helping the club locate this venue. He also announced that there will be no club meeting on October 19th due to an unavoidable scheduling conflict at the church. In lieu of the regular meeting, he encouraged all members to attend the Art Auction/Taste of Irmo on October 14. Judy Johnson provided an update on the Auction, indicating that we must have at least 100 attendees in order to obtain an additional $1,500 towards our fundraising efforts. Judy updated the club on some of the auction items that have been donated and recognized Beetle Bailey who brought several golf related items. Judy stressed that volunteers are needed to assist with the event and its set up. The final prep meeting for the Auction will be held on Monday, October 10 at 6:00 p.m. at Carolina Wings in Irmo. Harold Crawford updated the club on the dictionary project.
President Hite announced that the next Board of Directors meeting will be held at 7:30 on October 20th at Three Rivers Medical.
Rod Funderburk introduced our guest speaker, Ambassadorial Scholar Anne Harvey. Anne is a senior at the University of South Carolina who spent a number of months studying in St. Petersburg, Russia. Anne gave a detailed account of her studies in Russia, which ranged from language to literature. She also brought along a number of traditional Russian souvenirs, pictures, and books. During her stay Anne was able to develop a greater understanding of the nation’s culture and its people. She noted the obvious lack of a true middle class in Russia, as well as the obvious juxtaposition between the wealthy and poor areas of the region. Anne made a point to experience as much of the Russian culture as possible during stay, as evidenced by her 12 visits to St. Petersburg’s largest museum. She also volunteered at two orphanages. Anne plans to return to Russia in the near future to work on her thesis, which will deal with the status of women in Russian culture. She closed by thanking the club for its support.

Interact Club

Our interact club is very active with us here in our community. Shown here with their sponsor, Kelly Payne, they deliver dictionaries with us to local Elementary schools. They also have been out in force for Adopt-A-Highway and to assist us with our Fall Charity Auction. Thanks to their sponsor, Kelly Payne.

Meeting Wednesday Sep 28th with Kevin Cohen

Rotary Club of Lake Murray
Minutes to meeting on 9/28/05
Lyn Richards, reporter
The meeting was opened with prayer led by John Adair. Harvey Hoots introduced visitors, which included four members of the Dutch Fork High School Interact Club, brought by Kelley Payne. Michael Sequin provided us with an update on the Irmo Okra Strut, which he said went really well, with ample volunteers. Blount Shepard will host the Adopt-A-Highway cleanup date this Saturday with breakfast at his office from 8 to 9, and then clean-up to follow. Harold Crawford gave us an update on the dictionary project. Dr. Lynn Campbell gave us our Rotary magazine quiz, which I’d say we only got about a C+ on. Judy Johnson gave us our tickets to sell for the Art Auction.
Nathan Ballentine introduced our guest speaker, Kevin Cohen of WVOC here in Columbia.
Kevin spoke with us regarding his trip to Guantanamo Bay. Kevin is open of his support of President Bush and the current policy regarding the war in Iraq. Kevin’s belief is that history will vindicate the Iraq war. One of Kevin’s concerns was what he had been hearing in the media about the treatment of detainees in Guantanamo Bay, and through the help of Senator Lindsay Graham’s office and Joe Wilson’s office, he was secreted away on a trip to ascertain the facts for himself.
Kevin was impressed with the beauty of Cuba and is excited about economic opportunities that will present themselves at the end of Castro’s regime.
First Kevin visited camp X Ray, where detainees used to be kept. He stated that the conditions there were abysmal, but the place is now deserted. He says this is the camp that the media shows pictures of when featuring Guantanamo Bay in news items.
At the actual detention center, he saw the prisoners and was actually able to interview guards and administrative personnel. There are three levels of detainees, designated by color; orange being the color of the most uncooperative detainees. He admitted that some abuse had occurred, but reminded us of the unimaginable provocation that our soldiers receive from the detainees. While Kevin was aware that his visit was anticipated and prepared for, he felt that he could get a fair picture of conditions, which were tolerable. Each Muslim has their own copy of a Q’uran, a prayer mat, and arrows pointing in the direction of Mecca in order to help them pray. He stated that the reason cooperative detainees are not released is due to the stigma that attaches to both being a detainee and having cooperated. It is also due to the possibility that these prisoners will revert to subversive activities.
Kevin was very grateful to Senator Graham and House Representative Joe Wilson for the opportunity to witness news events first hand.

Rotary at Okra Strut 2005

We were there at the 2005 Okra Strut selling tickets; checking ID's; eating Okra; celebrating with a cigar; caring for, displaying, and reinflating the Okra man; and just hanging out. Good fun and fellowship.