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.