Lake Murray-Irmo Rotary Club July 23rd Meeting Report -
The meeting was called to order by President Eddie Robinson and the invocation given by Patty Cavanaugh. Fred Splittsberger, a frequent visitor from the St. Andrews Rotary Club was welcomed back. It was announced that past President Beetle Baily was still in the hospital but is doing well and expects to be out of the hospital and back with us by next week.
Candidates for Rotary Scholarships were acknowledged and Lyman Whitehead shared some humor with us before our speaker for the day was introduced.
The morning's speaker was Hon. James E. Smith Jr. who is in the SC House of Representatives from District 72. Mr Smith is also a Captain in the SC Army National Guard, recently returned from a year of active duty in Afghanistan. He shared with us his experiences in Afghanistan and offered many insights into the problems being experienced in that part of the world. He displayed a map of Afghanistan, specifically Zabul Province where most of the conflict is concentrated owing to the actions of the Taliban combatants. Kumar Province is also the site of Taliban attacks on both civilian and military targets. No conflicts exist in much of Afghanistan.
Afghanistan is largely primitive with poor roads and lacking in many basics such as schools, wells and many of the basic needs of life. The U.S. Military is trying to address these matters in constructive ways by building schools, establishing wells for potable water and building trusting relationships to counter the destructive influence of the Taliban.
Working with the people requires interpreters which creates a problem because the enterpreters become targets for beheading by Taliban groups. Complicating matters is the illegal drug trade and widespread corruption among influential Afghans. Marijuana and opium can be legally grown in most of the country and is a widespread source of corruption and lawlessness.
U.S. Military operations in Afghanistan are plagued with problems such as improvised explosive devices "ied's" and rifle propelled grenades "rpg's". The so-called MRAPS, vehicles fitted to be non-vulnerable to ied's and rpg's are of limited value because so much of the terrain is extremely rough lending itself to attacks by the ied's and rpg's.
Mr. Smith makes a strong case for more troops to deal with the problems in Afghanistan and concentrating on things such as building schools, drilling wells and building mutually beneficial relationships with the people.
Respectfully submitted
Bill Brooks
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
July 16, 2008
Minutes of Lake Murray Irmo Rotary Club
07/16/2008
Reporter: Kevin Adams
After the invocation, John Hanson was called upon to introduce our guest from the West Metro Rotary Club, Ryan Hubbard. Lyn Richards was our pinch hitter for Health and Happiness. Jeff Baldwin was recognized for his 65th birthday while Barry Johns and his wife celebrated their 24th wedding anniversary and Larry Stohs and his wife celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary. John Adair was then called upon to announce the classification speaker and invocation schedules for the remainder of the year. Next, Rod Funderburk advised that our Ambassadorial Scholar, Samantha Martin, has a blogspot for her journey to Northern Ireland: http://peaceandpaint.blogspot.com . Her email address is samathamartin08@gmail.com .
Being the impressive club that we are, we (okay a mere few of us) impressed Lyn Campbell by successfully answering his Rotarian magazine questions. It was most fortuitous “we” scored well since our District Governor, Anne Walker, and Assistant District Governor, George McConnell, were present. A second occasion to impress Ms. Walker and Mr. McConnell was Patty Cavanaugh’s induction of Gaye Campbell, Lynn Campbell’s wife, as a Paul Harris Fellow.
President Eddie Robinson put a twist on the Happy Dollar theme by creating a challenge between two former club presidents (one of which who was not present) to see who could raise the most Happy Dollars. President Eddie started things off well with a $2 award to the Absentee Former President to get him started off on the right foot. Joel Collins, the other former club president in the challenge, returned fire with a $20 Happy Dollar. When all the dust has settled, Former President Joel had $124 to Absentee Former President $4. It was the first time more than $100 had been raised in Happy Dollars in a single day!
Assistant District Governor George McConnell introduced our speaker, District Governor Anne Walker. Ms. Walker is no stranger to Rotary. She has been a Rotarian since 1988 and is a former president of the Columbia Club.
Ms. Walker started by asking how many of those present were in sales. Several folks raised their hands. She then asked the remainder of those present to raise their hands. She explained why everyone had their hands up: we are all in sales. Every time we go somewhere, we sell our personality, we sell our company with those whom we talk business, we sell our faith, etc. We also sell Rotary.
Every successful business has one thing in common: a plan. To grow Rotary membership, we must also have a plan. So Anne suggested ROTARY:
Reach out to those we come in contact. Share Rotary.
Opportunities are out there for us to advance Rotary. Seize those opportunities.
Take people by the hand. Lead them around Rotary meetings.
Ask people to come to Rotary. 90% of Rotarians have never asked anyone to a meeting.
Retention. We must retain members if we are to grow.
You need to be an advocate of Rotary if you want our club to be a great club.
She then distributed a 3X5 index card and asked everyone to write a name of a potential Rotarian on it. Anne then insisted we fold the card twice and keep it in our pocket until we ask that person to a meeting.
In the last five years, District 7770 has been recognized twice as having the largest per capita giving of all the clubs in Rotary International. In addition to repeated that feat, this year Anne would also like to add 2,000 members to our present 4500 members.
Anne then cited RI President Dong Kum Lee’s theme of “Make Dreams Real.” His initiatives include curtailing child mortality, improving literacy and providing safe drinking water in the poorest regions of the world. To reach for those initiatives, Anne reminded us of opportunities through Rotary Foundation. There is the Paul Harris Society for those who contribute $1,000 or more per year to the Foundation. Major Donors are those who contribute $10,000 or more to the Foundation. Then there is the Bequest Society for those who set aside $10,000 for the Foundation in their will. Benefactors are those who set aside at least $1,000 in their will for the benefit of the Foundation. While in Hilton Head on March 25, 2009, International President Dong Kum Lee will present pins to Major Donors and Bequest Society members. In Sumter on September 18, there will be a Rotary Foundation Seminar for all those who would like to attend.
The District Conference will be held in Columbia from March 20-22, 2009 (Friday through Sunday) at the Hampton Inn and Convention Center in the Vista. The Conference will kick off with a luncheon on Friday who speaker is an outstanding humorist. Anne promises it will be nothing more than pure entertainment and she encouraged our club to move our normal meeting date that week to Friday. The remainder of the weekend is filled with activities and outstanding speakers and will conclude Sunday morning with a worship service.
Finally, to help make wonderful things happen in our club, Anne presented Eddie with an illuminated magic wand to waive over the club. Somehow I have a feeling we will be seeing more of that!
Lastly, Eddie reminded Board members of a meeting Friday morning at 7:30 and advised us Former President Beetle Bailey is doing well in rehab. Being no further business, Eddie adjourned the meeting.
07/16/2008
Reporter: Kevin Adams
After the invocation, John Hanson was called upon to introduce our guest from the West Metro Rotary Club, Ryan Hubbard. Lyn Richards was our pinch hitter for Health and Happiness. Jeff Baldwin was recognized for his 65th birthday while Barry Johns and his wife celebrated their 24th wedding anniversary and Larry Stohs and his wife celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary. John Adair was then called upon to announce the classification speaker and invocation schedules for the remainder of the year. Next, Rod Funderburk advised that our Ambassadorial Scholar, Samantha Martin, has a blogspot for her journey to Northern Ireland: http://peaceandpaint.blogspot.com . Her email address is samathamartin08@gmail.com .
Being the impressive club that we are, we (okay a mere few of us) impressed Lyn Campbell by successfully answering his Rotarian magazine questions. It was most fortuitous “we” scored well since our District Governor, Anne Walker, and Assistant District Governor, George McConnell, were present. A second occasion to impress Ms. Walker and Mr. McConnell was Patty Cavanaugh’s induction of Gaye Campbell, Lynn Campbell’s wife, as a Paul Harris Fellow.
President Eddie Robinson put a twist on the Happy Dollar theme by creating a challenge between two former club presidents (one of which who was not present) to see who could raise the most Happy Dollars. President Eddie started things off well with a $2 award to the Absentee Former President to get him started off on the right foot. Joel Collins, the other former club president in the challenge, returned fire with a $20 Happy Dollar. When all the dust has settled, Former President Joel had $124 to Absentee Former President $4. It was the first time more than $100 had been raised in Happy Dollars in a single day!
Assistant District Governor George McConnell introduced our speaker, District Governor Anne Walker. Ms. Walker is no stranger to Rotary. She has been a Rotarian since 1988 and is a former president of the Columbia Club.
Ms. Walker started by asking how many of those present were in sales. Several folks raised their hands. She then asked the remainder of those present to raise their hands. She explained why everyone had their hands up: we are all in sales. Every time we go somewhere, we sell our personality, we sell our company with those whom we talk business, we sell our faith, etc. We also sell Rotary.
Every successful business has one thing in common: a plan. To grow Rotary membership, we must also have a plan. So Anne suggested ROTARY:
Reach out to those we come in contact. Share Rotary.
Opportunities are out there for us to advance Rotary. Seize those opportunities.
Take people by the hand. Lead them around Rotary meetings.
Ask people to come to Rotary. 90% of Rotarians have never asked anyone to a meeting.
Retention. We must retain members if we are to grow.
You need to be an advocate of Rotary if you want our club to be a great club.
She then distributed a 3X5 index card and asked everyone to write a name of a potential Rotarian on it. Anne then insisted we fold the card twice and keep it in our pocket until we ask that person to a meeting.
In the last five years, District 7770 has been recognized twice as having the largest per capita giving of all the clubs in Rotary International. In addition to repeated that feat, this year Anne would also like to add 2,000 members to our present 4500 members.
Anne then cited RI President Dong Kum Lee’s theme of “Make Dreams Real.” His initiatives include curtailing child mortality, improving literacy and providing safe drinking water in the poorest regions of the world. To reach for those initiatives, Anne reminded us of opportunities through Rotary Foundation. There is the Paul Harris Society for those who contribute $1,000 or more per year to the Foundation. Major Donors are those who contribute $10,000 or more to the Foundation. Then there is the Bequest Society for those who set aside $10,000 for the Foundation in their will. Benefactors are those who set aside at least $1,000 in their will for the benefit of the Foundation. While in Hilton Head on March 25, 2009, International President Dong Kum Lee will present pins to Major Donors and Bequest Society members. In Sumter on September 18, there will be a Rotary Foundation Seminar for all those who would like to attend.
The District Conference will be held in Columbia from March 20-22, 2009 (Friday through Sunday) at the Hampton Inn and Convention Center in the Vista. The Conference will kick off with a luncheon on Friday who speaker is an outstanding humorist. Anne promises it will be nothing more than pure entertainment and she encouraged our club to move our normal meeting date that week to Friday. The remainder of the weekend is filled with activities and outstanding speakers and will conclude Sunday morning with a worship service.
Finally, to help make wonderful things happen in our club, Anne presented Eddie with an illuminated magic wand to waive over the club. Somehow I have a feeling we will be seeing more of that!
Lastly, Eddie reminded Board members of a meeting Friday morning at 7:30 and advised us Former President Beetle Bailey is doing well in rehab. Being no further business, Eddie adjourned the meeting.
Thursday, July 10, 2008
July 9, 2008
July 9th, 2008 Lake Murray-Irmo Rotary Meeting
President Eddie Robinson called the July 9th meeting to order with the pledge of allegiance.
Guests in attendance for this meeting included Allen Shumaker, the Hood Family and President Robinson’s Wife Sylvia.
Lyman Whitehead gave us a few stories to show why we should be proud to be an American.
A few announcements were made that included acknowledgement of the SC Jr. Golf Association being awarded the distinction of a Top Jr. Golf Group in the country by Golf Digest Magazine. Past President Beetle Bailey was recognized and wished a speedy recovery from Knee replacement surgery. Carl Manheim was recognized and is said to be recuperating well. An encore appearance By Representative James Smith is scheduled for July 23rd since there was an abundance of interest in his topic last week.
President Elect Ginny Barr introduced today’s guest who is with the SC Department of Education’s PACE Program- Mr. Dick Thompson.
Mr. Thompson explained the Program of Alternative Certification for Educators (PACE) to the Rotarians as a program created by Governor Dick Riley in 1984 as part of the Education Improvement Act. PACE is designed as a program for those considering a Career change to earn a Professional Teacher’s Certificate in three years while being employed as a classroom teacher. PACE teachers account for 10%-12% of the approximately 5000 teachers hired in South Carolina each year. The Pace teachers are placed in Critical Needs Subjects i n middle and high schools around the state.
To become a PACE teacher you need to take the Praxis Exam and attend an intensive 10 day training program. For three years you will take classes and attend workshops while you also teach in a classroom under the supervision of a teaching mentor.
Mr. Thompson answered questions on the program that details the Critical Needs Subjects. For additional information you can go to www.scpace.org.
President Robinson thanked Mr Thompson for speaking and presented him with a Rotary pin. Some additional announcements were made to let the Rotarians know that going forward we will have Happy dollars on the 1st and 3rd Wednesday meeting and Classification Speeches on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday meetings. Also the CART fund buckets will be on the tables every Wednesday for your donations.
Wednesday, July 02, 2008
Rotarian of the Year
Past President, Beetle, presents Rotarian of the Year award to Carey Hite
Past President Beetle made a special presentation for the Rotarian of the year to Dr Carey Hite. Dr Hite has initiated 4 new Rotary members and runs the blog for our club.
July 2nd 2008
Ginny Barr introduces our speakerOur Speaker Representative James Smith
President Eddie (first day as our new President) with our speaker SC Representative James Smith
Reporter Notes 2 July, 2008
President Eddie Robinson called the meeting to order and the JROTC Color Guard from SCDJJ posted the colors.
Mrs. Medway from the Five Points Club and Mr. Stewart from the Columbia Club were recognized as guests.
Member John Wilkins daughter Haley Grace (fourth grader at River Springs Elementary) made a gift to the club of $8.00. This is money she has earned by working a lemonade stand and car wash in her neighborhood.
Past President Beetle made a special presentation for the Rotarian of the year to Dr Cary Hite. Dr Hite has initiated 4 new Rotary members and runs the blog for our club.
President Eddie Robinson introduced the officers for the upcoming year.
John Adair made an announcement for members to sign up for the invocations at meetings.
Lynn Campbell announces he was going to be quizzing the club again on the Rotary magazine but was considerate enough not to start at this meeting.
President-Elect Ginny Barr introduced our speaker The Honorable James E Smith, Jr.
Representative Smith is a native of Columbia. He is a graduate of USC and obtained his law degree in 1995. He is a partner in the law firm of Smith, Ellis, and Stuckey PA, serves in the House of Representatives for District No. 72, and served as a JAG Officer and Infantry Officer in the South Carolina ARNG.
Rep. Smith spoke to our club about his tour in Afghanistan as an embedded tactical trainer. His primary job was to defeat the Taliban forces by developing connections and mentoring local tribesmen in the Jaldak and Qalat region.
He lived and operated with 9 other US soldiers, interpreters and body guards out of a fire base that maintained constant combat operations in his area. He and his fellow soldiers had to be constantly vigilant because the Taliban rewards $80,000 for the assassination of US soldiers.
The Taliban forces numbered about 400 – 500 in the area and lived and worked among the locals so they were difficult to identify. During his tour they were able to eliminate about 120 – 140 Taliban fighters including a Mullah that had been able to evade capture on numerous attempts by our special forces.
Rep James talked about many positive changes taking place. One is that when a unit’s tour is up they are being replaced by other qualified soldiers to continue the past achievements. Rep James said that even though we need a larger presence that the forces there are winning over villagers which in turn reject the Taliban forces. Also, he said the most significant change was that the Afgans understood that there are sacrifices to be made in order to improve the situation for future citizens.
Rep. James told the club about some of the challenges that we still face in the area. One problem he identified is that Afghanistan supplies 90% of the world’s opium. Due to the corruption within the government and the money involved he said it is difficult to control the trade. Also, he said the Taliban is resorting to more aggressive tactics primarily due to the successes made by the military. Another problem he revealed was with Afghanistan’s neighbor Pakistan. He said that due to some cultural divides and historical conflicts it appears as if Pakistan is trying to undermine the new government’s efforts.
Monday, June 23, 2008
Thursday, June 19, 2008
June 18 2008
Cathy Hagan, Patsy Towery
Meeting minutes June 18th, 2008
Meeting was called to order by Eddie Robinson with Beetle noted to be at a meeting in Los Angeles this week. The invocation was offered and John Hanson introduced two visiting Rotarians to our club for the morning. Lyman Whitehead provided us with some health, happiness, and humor. Patty Cavanaugh reminded everyone that the 20th Anniversary Year Kickoff would be held at Chestnut Hill Plantation Clubhouse from 6-9p.m. on June 21st. Business casual is the recommended dress and heavy hors d'oeuvres will be served. New officers are to be inducted. No meeting will be held on June 25th because of the social. Eddie Robinson received his new presidential ID badge from Sy Amick for the 2008-09 year.
Patsy Towery, the Director of Special Programs for Midlands Technical College, was introduced by Eddie Robinson. She provided a broad overview of these special programs offered at the college and divided them into three different categories. The first was community education which was comprised of programs ranging from art and writing to first aid for pets, dancing classes and language courses. While some provided career building opportunities like calligraphy and cake decorating, others like piano or ballroom dancing were mostly for fun. She highlighted two travel opportunities, one to Costa Rica and the other to Spain, which provided students with Spanish immersion programs in both language and culture. She noted that in Costa Rica, students would actually live with locals during their stay. We were reminded that there was no long, formal process that had to be completed before taking advantage of these courses. The next tier of programs she discussed was the career programs. These included courses in animal control, certified financial planning (2yr program), pool operator, interior decorating, locksmith, and owning and operating a home child day-care program. She discussed the locksmith program at greater length including the contributions of fellow Rotarian Skey Caskey to development of the course. She also acknowledged the contribution of our own Eddie Robinson in the development of the first aid of for pets course and how both of these courses have been very well received and popular. The final tier of courses mentioned were those provided to businesses by Midlands on a contractual basis. Employees of these businesses could take these courses as a benefit. Examples of programs included real estate, financial, and language programs. “Command Spanish” classes were emphasized because of the growing population of Hispanics/Latinos in our area. This course provides simple instruction on terminology and phrases specific to certain fields of employment (ie law enforcement or medicine) to enable some level of efficient communication. Patsy finished by inviting Rotarians to contact her with any course ideas they might have or willingness to teach in the program. Teachers are allowed to take other courses offered for free if so desired.
At the completion of the presentation, Patsy Towery provided The Rotary with a gift-certificate worth $150.00 towards taking any course at the college mentioned. Skey Caskey adroitly auctioned off the certificate for $80.00. Skey also unveiled the banner that was beautifully refurbished by his wife to hang in the meeting room. As the meeting was not yet over, some happy dollars were offered, including two for Skey Caskey who started “happy dollars” at our club. The meeting was adjourned at 8:30am.
Reported: David C Isbell
Monday, June 16, 2008
More Pictures from recent meetings
Kelly Payne and John Wilkins
Ginny Barr accepts Paul Harris Fellow award. Also pictured Eddie Robinson and Patty Cavanaugh.
Nancy Tuten of Animal Protection league accepts check from Rotary (John Wilkins)
Friday, June 06, 2008
June 4 2008
Opening Prayer Ginny Barr
2 Rotary Vistors;
1 from the Columbia Club
1 from the Newberry Club
PROGRAM
DUTCH FORK HIGH SCHOOL
STEM PROGRAM
Science Technology Engineering Math
Presented By
Mr. Greg Morton and Ms. Sandy Orr
STEM Program Course Description
Scientist and Engineers must first be able to pose a question and then figure a way to systematically answer it. At Dutch Fork High School's research class, students practice and then execute this basic scientic skill.
The course is designated for students with a natural curiosity and the drive and aptitude to seek answers to complex open ended questions. The success or failure is wholly dependent upon the individual.
Starting in January, 2008 students presented results at a series of conferences and science fairs, competing against the best science students from high schools throughout South Carolina. This class won over 25 awards at three competitions. Several students won multible awards, competing against students from magnet programs at public and privite high schools throughout the state.
CONGRATULATIONS DUTCH FORK HIGH SCHOOL STEM PROGRAM
Jack D Mobley
Reporter
2 Rotary Vistors;
1 from the Columbia Club
1 from the Newberry Club
PROGRAM
DUTCH FORK HIGH SCHOOL
STEM PROGRAM
Science Technology Engineering Math
Presented By
Mr. Greg Morton and Ms. Sandy Orr
STEM Program Course Description
Scientist and Engineers must first be able to pose a question and then figure a way to systematically answer it. At Dutch Fork High School's research class, students practice and then execute this basic scientic skill.
The course is designated for students with a natural curiosity and the drive and aptitude to seek answers to complex open ended questions. The success or failure is wholly dependent upon the individual.
Starting in January, 2008 students presented results at a series of conferences and science fairs, competing against the best science students from high schools throughout South Carolina. This class won over 25 awards at three competitions. Several students won multible awards, competing against students from magnet programs at public and privite high schools throughout the state.
CONGRATULATIONS DUTCH FORK HIGH SCHOOL STEM PROGRAM
Jack D Mobley
Reporter
Thursday, May 29, 2008
May 29 2008
May 28, 2008
The meeting was called to order at 7:48AM by President Beetle Bailey. John Adair gave the invocation and the Pledge of Allegiance followed.
John Hanson introduced visiting Rotarians, Dr. Fred Splitberger from the St. Andrews Club, and guests, Joel Price’s grandson.
Lyman Whitehead provided the group with “Health and Happiness”.
Blount Shepard announced that the Okra Man traveled to New York City, but has returned safely to his office.
John Adair mentioned that LMIRC has copyrights on the Okra Man’s image and name.
Patty Cavanaugh informed the group that the 20th Anniversary kick-off will be held June 21st at Chestnut Hill Plantation. More details will follow.
President Beetle Bailey asked for Happy Dollars.
Eddie Robinson introduced our speaker. Ms. Marsha Atkins serves as the Director of Sharing God’s Love. A video was shown that gives more details about the program. Sharing God’s Love was formed in 1984 to provide food, clothing, and financial and spiritual support to needy families of the Irmo/St. Andrews/Ballentine areas. Sharing God’s Love does not receive government money to run their program. Individuals, businesses, schools, and churches donate items and time to Sharing God’s Love. The purpose of the program is to help clients become independent. They are eligible to receive food and clothing every three months and financial support once a year. Sharing God’s Love is located at 147 Friarsgate Blvd in Irmo.
Meeting was adjourned at 8:23AM by President Bailey.
Reporter: Emilie Keene
The meeting was called to order at 7:48AM by President Beetle Bailey. John Adair gave the invocation and the Pledge of Allegiance followed.
John Hanson introduced visiting Rotarians, Dr. Fred Splitberger from the St. Andrews Club, and guests, Joel Price’s grandson.
Lyman Whitehead provided the group with “Health and Happiness”.
Blount Shepard announced that the Okra Man traveled to New York City, but has returned safely to his office.
John Adair mentioned that LMIRC has copyrights on the Okra Man’s image and name.
Patty Cavanaugh informed the group that the 20th Anniversary kick-off will be held June 21st at Chestnut Hill Plantation. More details will follow.
President Beetle Bailey asked for Happy Dollars.
Eddie Robinson introduced our speaker. Ms. Marsha Atkins serves as the Director of Sharing God’s Love. A video was shown that gives more details about the program. Sharing God’s Love was formed in 1984 to provide food, clothing, and financial and spiritual support to needy families of the Irmo/St. Andrews/Ballentine areas. Sharing God’s Love does not receive government money to run their program. Individuals, businesses, schools, and churches donate items and time to Sharing God’s Love. The purpose of the program is to help clients become independent. They are eligible to receive food and clothing every three months and financial support once a year. Sharing God’s Love is located at 147 Friarsgate Blvd in Irmo.
Meeting was adjourned at 8:23AM by President Bailey.
Reporter: Emilie Keene
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
May 21 2008
Our speaker, Chris Jenkins, Public Affairs Specialist with Social Security Administration.
May 21, 2008
Reporter-- Jim Wellman
President Beetle called the meeting to order with the clanging of the bell. John Adair gave the invocation, after which followed the Pledge of Allegiance.
John Hanson introduced our visiting Rotarians. He also introduced our other guest Beetle Bailey’s wife Debra.
Lyman Whitehead entertained us with his usual message of humor and good cheer.
Larry Stohs reminded all of us that we would soon need to update our information for the upcoming directory. He indicated that he particularly needed the information on our new members. John Adair volunteered to take any pictures necessary. Larry stated that his assistant Tina would assist in this undertaking. He and Tina can be reached at 772-1617.
President Beetle reminded us that June 21, 2008 would begin the 20th year anniversary of our Club. He will keep us informed as details become available. He did announce that as a result of this celebration there will be no meeting June 25th.
Larry Stohs introduced our speaker Chris Jenkins, a Public Affairs Specialist with the Social Security Administration. He gave an energetic and entertaining presentation on Social Security. He stressed the following points in his presentation:
At this point the SSA takes in more than it pays out. The excess revenue is invested in Treasury notes. These notes are what constitute the Trust Fund we hear so much about. Sometime around 2017 with the influx of the “baby boomers” the system will need to draw upon the interest earned by the Trust Fund. In the years 2028-2029 it is anticipated that in order to meet its obligations the SSI will need to begin to draw upon the principle in the Trust Fund.
Social Security was never designed to be a pension. It’s original goal was to help supplement the retirement savings of Americans. Over the years the objective has been expanded to provide supplemental income to survivors of contributors and disability payments for those who become unable to work.
He indicated that identity theft strikes over 500 South Carolinians daily. This can be reduced if we are more careful in who we give our social security number.
He indicated that most Americans can conduct almost all business with the Social Security Administration through the web or by telephone. Thus reducing the wait time in trying to conduct business in person.
There are many options available to us as to how benefits are paid out. He encouraged us to search out the option that is best for us and make an informed decision.
There are over 800,000 people in South Carolina who receive benefits from SSA.
In closing he stated that perhaps the best way to look at Social Security was that it’s a pool of money designed to help people help each other.
President Beetle adjourned the meeting and wished us a good week.
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
May 14 2008
Special Olympians
Dianna Poiletman
Kenneth Whitaker
Eric Brown
Richland County Sheriff's Department - Heroes Helping Heroes
Retired Deputy Debo Hayes
Captain Joseph Pellicci
Special Olympians
Dianna Poiletman
Kenneth Whitaker
Eric Brown
President Beetle in background
Saturday, May 10, 2008
May 7 2008
Subject: May 7, 2008 Rotary Meeting - Reporter Joel Z. Price President Beetle Bailey called the meeting to order and called on Kevin Adams forthe invocation. John Hanson introduced our visitors, which included two of ourscholarship recipients and visiting rotarians from Chapin, St. Andrews and SpringValley clubs. Skey Caskey dutifully hung our Rotary Banners only to have one falllater. Kelly Payne was the first to jump into action to fix the problem. Skey,with his observant eye, jumped to his feet to assist Kelly. They quickly noted thatthe hook had come out of the ceiling and proceeded to roll it up. The good news is,3 of the banners did not fall. Stephen Caldwell was inducted as our newest Rotarian by Eddie Robinson. Stephen wassponsored by Joel Collins. Joel pointed out that he had sponsored our currentPresident, Beetle Bailey, our incoming President, Eddie Robinson. so therefore aprecedent has been set for Stephen. Stephen works with the Department of JuvenileJustice. After Stephen was inducted, it was noted that our District Governor,George McConnell, was visiting with us today. Lyman Whitehead provided our Health and Happiness entertainment and brought aboutsome smiles and some laughter. Jim Gadsden day was held at one of his formerchurches and according to Lynn Campbell he can still preach. Paula Matthews from the Spring Valley Club presented President Beetle Bailey hiscrystal and pin for becoming a member of the Quest Society. This recognition isaccomplished by leaving $10.000.00 or more in your will to the Foundation. She alsonoted that if you want to be a member of the Benefactor Society you may make adonation of $1000.00 to the Foundation or leave that amount in your will to theFoundation. Happy Dollar Time - What can I say? A lot of people were happy about a lot ofthings. While I don't remember what everyone was happy about, I can at least tellyou who shared their joy: Chris Joye, Skey Caskey (3 happy dollars), Jim Gadsden,Jenny Barr, George Staples, Joel Collins (2 happy dollars), Harry Hafer, LarryStohs, Lynn Campbell, Elizabeth Ray (Interact Student), Beetle Bailey, HaroldCrawford and Joel Price. Our speaker was Mr. Timothy Davis, Founder of Spotless Lamb Ministries. Mr. Davisis a retired Law Enforcement Officer and is a Deacon at Irmo Family Worship Center. The program began with Mr. Davis giving a scenario of domestic violence in the homeand telling us that we have the tools in our hands to help someone in this situationand then asking us what we will do with this tool. Part of his ministry isproviding Senior Citizens, the Disabled, and Battered Women with Free Emergency CellPhones. They receive phones from another ministry after they have been sanitized. Every phone is set to call 911 before they are dispersed. If you have a old cell;phone, or any attatchments to a cell phone they can be taken to the THRIFT STORELOCATED BEHIND LIZARD's THICKET on St. Andrews Road in Irmo. If you do not have acharger to go with the phone, they will still accept the phone as they have peoplewho turn in chargers but do not have the phone. Beetle adjourned the meeting with the ringing of the bell.
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
April 30 2008
Meeting was called to order by president Beetle Bailey. Lynn Richards gave the invocation. Lyman Whitehead followed
with Health and Happiness. Patty Cavanaugh and Bob Berry awarder Paul Harris fellow awards to Bill Brooks and Howard Crawford. Congratulations !
Patty Cavanaugh, Bob Berry, and new Paul Harris Fellows Bill Brooks and Harold Crawford.
Bill Danielson introduced our speaker, Jane Brundage of Pets Inc. Jane accentuated the problem of pet overpopulation in our local counties. When abandonded pets are found there are two primary choices : animal control or Pets Inc. Pets Inc. will place 3000 animals in 2008 at $90/ animal. Their budget is $1,100,000 annually. Pets Inc is responsible for funding their budget themselves. There are two major sources of self funding . Te first is running a thrift shop. The thrift store generates $170,000 / year. Pets Inc also runs a non-profit pet shop. 100 % of the money goes to support the missipn of Pets Inc. The pet food is the best quality available according to Jane. She hopes the public will support the pet store , and adopt a pet whenever possible.
Beetle adjourned the meeting.
Bill Danielson and our speaker, Jane Brundage of Pets Inc.
with Health and Happiness. Patty Cavanaugh and Bob Berry awarder Paul Harris fellow awards to Bill Brooks and Howard Crawford. Congratulations !
Patty Cavanaugh, Bob Berry, and new Paul Harris Fellows Bill Brooks and Harold Crawford.
Bill Danielson introduced our speaker, Jane Brundage of Pets Inc. Jane accentuated the problem of pet overpopulation in our local counties. When abandonded pets are found there are two primary choices : animal control or Pets Inc. Pets Inc. will place 3000 animals in 2008 at $90/ animal. Their budget is $1,100,000 annually. Pets Inc is responsible for funding their budget themselves. There are two major sources of self funding . Te first is running a thrift shop. The thrift store generates $170,000 / year. Pets Inc also runs a non-profit pet shop. 100 % of the money goes to support the missipn of Pets Inc. The pet food is the best quality available according to Jane. She hopes the public will support the pet store , and adopt a pet whenever possible.
Beetle adjourned the meeting.
Bill Danielson and our speaker, Jane Brundage of Pets Inc.
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
April 23 2008
Meeting was opened by President Bailey
Visitors: Reid Danielson, Jerry Coulter, Dr Fred Splitberger(St Andrews Club),
Rotary Scholars: Samantha Martin, Ashley Rhoderick
Health and Happiness: Lyman Whitehead: "Religion day w/ Sister Mary"
Stan Berger reported that Clean Up Day was a success with over two dozen interact students participating.
Judy Johnson announced the Babcock Center " Hole in One " tournament scheduled for this weekend.
Rod Funderbuck introduced our Rotary Scholars to address the club.
Samantha Martin will be going to London"Derry", Republic of Ireland for advanced studies. She presently resides in Jacksonville, Florida. Her focus during her trip is to explore the culture of the Emerald Isle/UK, make friends, examine conflict theories and explore solutions. Her challenges: culture shock, to be a real Ambassador not just a tourist/traveler/student, really understand "English", to tolerate the not too sunny climate and to try to learn to like beer.
Ashley Rhoderick will be going to Cairo, Egypt as a Cultural Scholar for three months. She is a senior at USC and a native of Middleton, Md. (pop: 2,668, founded: 1767) She is a chemical engineer, member of AICE, Campus Crusade for Christ, Tau Beta Pi honor society.
She said that Cairo is a city of 16 million people, primarily Muslim(90% Sunni, 9% Christian). Egypt has a population of 74 million. She will study at the American University in Cairo, Arabic Language Institute, with 4 thousand students 81% are Egyptian. She will be staying with an Egyptian family looking for Engineering opportunities abroad. Ashley will intern with the Campus Crusade for Christ, Middle East for 7 months.
Shortly after President Beetle adjourned the meeting.
Monday, April 28, 2008
Saturday, April 26, 2008
Thursday, April 17, 2008
April 16 2008
Richard Eckstrom, Cultural Scholar Candidate Courtney Gibson, Rod Funderburke
Carey Hite and Maria Hargrave - our newest Rotarian
Jeanette Coulter presents husband Jerry with a Paul Harris Fellowship
Interact Sponsor Kelly Payne Keeps the Kids Involved
DUTCH FORK AND IRMO HIGH SCHOOL PUT ASIDE THEIR RIVALRIES FOR A GREAT CAUSE
On April 12, 16 students from the Dutch Fork High School Rotary/Interact Club and
Irmo High School paired with Union Methodist Church and the Home Works of America
program for a great cause. Together the teens and adults replaced a roof on a local
Irmo residents home. Building character and communities is the mission of this
program that restores hope to the elderly and disadvantaged homeowners in our state.
This program allows various church groups and community service organizations to
join forces not only in prayer but also in action by allowing individuals to share
their faith with one another, to work together and to pray together.
Dutch Fork High School Rotary/Interact Sponsor Kelly Payne
Home Works of America Executive Director and founder Hank Chardos
Home Works
PO Box 102
Irmo, SC 29063
(803) 781-4536
Wednesday, April 09, 2008
April 9 2008
MINUTES OF
THE ROTARY CLUB OF LAKE MURRAY-IRMO
APRIL 9, 2008
The meeting was called to Order by President Beetle Bailey
Rod Funderburk gave the innovation
Lyman Whitehead provided some health and happiness
Bill Brooks introduced the guest speaker, Jan Cox, Executive Director of the South Carolina Cotton Museum located in Bishopville, South Carolina which also happens to be the home of the legendary Doc Blanchard. The Cotton Museum also does a number of things for veterans including helping create a digital tape history by veterans which is sent to the library of congress. Jan pointed out that 86% of all cotton fiber in SC is now being shipped to China. The museum maintains the records of the history of cotton in SC. The first cotton is SC was grown on Sea Island. First Cotton farmer in SC was Joseph West. Eli Whitney was a school teacher in SC. He stated that SC cotton was just as good as Egyptian cotton. He invited the members to visit the museum in Bishopville.
There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned.
THE ROTARY CLUB OF LAKE MURRAY-IRMO
APRIL 9, 2008
The meeting was called to Order by President Beetle Bailey
Rod Funderburk gave the innovation
Lyman Whitehead provided some health and happiness
Bill Brooks introduced the guest speaker, Jan Cox, Executive Director of the South Carolina Cotton Museum located in Bishopville, South Carolina which also happens to be the home of the legendary Doc Blanchard. The Cotton Museum also does a number of things for veterans including helping create a digital tape history by veterans which is sent to the library of congress. Jan pointed out that 86% of all cotton fiber in SC is now being shipped to China. The museum maintains the records of the history of cotton in SC. The first cotton is SC was grown on Sea Island. First Cotton farmer in SC was Joseph West. Eli Whitney was a school teacher in SC. He stated that SC cotton was just as good as Egyptian cotton. He invited the members to visit the museum in Bishopville.
There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned.
Thursday, April 03, 2008
April 2nd 2008
Teresa Miley, Paula Matthers, President Beetle
Dutch Fork Interact
Our speaker, Jeff Davis with President Beetle
Kevin Meetze, Darin Bouknight, Mary Lou Stenson, Eddie Robinson
Dutch Fork Interact
Our speaker, Jeff Davis with President Beetle
Kevin Meetze, Darin Bouknight, Mary Lou Stenson, Eddie Robinson
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