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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20241111T123000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20241111T133000
DTSTAMP:20260404T161212
CREATED:20240919T202848Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240919T202848Z
UID:6262-1731328200-1731331800@www.aikenrotary.com
SUMMARY:Veteran's Day - NO MEETING
DESCRIPTION:CONTACT US
URL:https://www.aikenrotary.com/event/veterans-day-no-meeting/
LOCATION:Newberry Hall\, 117 Newberry St SW\, Aiken\, SC\, 29801\, United States
CATEGORIES:Guest Speaker
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20241118T123000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20241118T133000
DTSTAMP:20260404T161212
CREATED:20241003T201225Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241003T201225Z
UID:6275-1731933000-1731936600@www.aikenrotary.com
SUMMARY:Avery Spears-Mahoney\, Exec. Director of North Augusta Forward
DESCRIPTION:At North Augusta Forward\, our mission is to inspire\, lead and implement a united vision that provides the best possible quality of life for the community of North Augusta\, SC. \nThrough this mission\, our vision is for North Augusta to become the “community of choice” to live\, work and play within the River Region. \nCONTACT US
URL:https://www.aikenrotary.com/event/avery-spears-mahoney-exec-director-of-north-augusta-forward/
LOCATION:Newberry Hall\, 117 Newberry St SW\, Aiken\, SC\, 29801\, United States
CATEGORIES:Guest Speaker
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20241125T123000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20241125T133000
DTSTAMP:20260404T161212
CREATED:20241003T202143Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241003T202143Z
UID:6277-1732537800-1732541400@www.aikenrotary.com
SUMMARY:Wine Industry/Cline Family Vineyards
DESCRIPTION:The Cline Family vineyards span across Northern California\, from Tehama Couty to the Petaluma Gap. We strive to offer a harmonious blend of terroirs that impart distinct flavors to our wines. At Cline\, we not only craft exceptional wines but also cultivate a deep-rooted commitment to the land. Our sustainable farming practices reflect our unwavering dedication to preserving the environment and ensuring the long-term health of our vineyards. We believe that great wines start with a deep respect for the land.  \nThe Seven vineyards we farm are the heart and soul of our winemaking\, and they serve as the inspiration behind our Seven Ranchlands wines. These vineyards are not just plots of land; they are meticulously farmed with a profound dedication to quality and a deep-rooted passion for crafting exceptional wines. \nCONTACT US
URL:https://www.aikenrotary.com/event/wine-industry-cline-family-vineyards/
LOCATION:Newberry Hall\, 117 Newberry St SW\, Aiken\, SC\, 29801\, United States
CATEGORIES:Guest Speaker
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20241202T123000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20241202T133000
DTSTAMP:20260404T161212
CREATED:20240621T182341Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240919T195815Z
UID:6096-1733142600-1733146200@www.aikenrotary.com
SUMMARY:S.C. State Senator\, Tom Young\, with a Legislative Update
DESCRIPTION:Tom Young represents Senate District 24 covering large portions of Aiken County including of Aiken\, North Augusta\, Warrenville\, Gloverville\, Couchton\, New Ellenton\, Jackson\, Beech Island\, and Montmorenci in Aiken County. \nIn the Senate\, Tom has worked to strengthen our economy; to pass ethics reform; to improve education; to control government spending; to restructure state government; to reform child protective services; and to reform our state’s electric and gas utility laws. To keep constituents informed\, Tom created a periodic legislative email update that he drafts and sends during the year. Tom has received statewide recognition for leading efforts to restructure state government including shortening the legislative session; for his advocacy for improving education in South Carolina; and for his leadership addressing deficiencies in child protective services at the Department of Social Services. \nIn the Senate\, Tom serves on the Finance\, Education\, Rules\, Fish and Game\, Veterans and Family Affairs\, Oversight\, and Nuclear Advisory Committees and the Savannah River Maritime Commission. In addition\, Tom previously served on the Legislative Audit Council. Locally\, Tom is chair of the Aiken County Legislative Delegation. \nBorn and raised in Aiken\, Tom graduated from Aiken High and the University of South Carolina where he was student body president at both schools. Before his service in the legislature\, Tom served on the boards of the Greater Aiken Chamber of Commerce\, Aiken County Dollars for Scholars (past chair)\, Children’s Place (past chair)\, Aiken County Public Education Partners\, USC Young Alumni Association (past chair)\, USC Aiken Partnership\, South Carolina Honors College\, and several committees of the South Carolina Bar. Tom received the Algernon Sydney Sullivan Award in 1993 while at USC and is the 2009 recipient of the Silver Compleat Lawyer Award presented by the USC School of Law Alumni Association to recognize alumni for outstanding civic and professional accomplishments while exemplifying the highest standards of professional competence\, ethics\, and integrity. \nTom practices law in Aiken with Young & Thurmond\, LLC where he has been named to South Carolina Super Lawyers and to Best Lawyers in America. Before his service in the Senate\, Tom served in the S.C. House of Representatives representing District 81 from 2009 through 2012. \nTom is married to his wife Heather and his daughters are Hailey and Ashley. Tom and his family are members of Aiken’s St. John’s Methodist Church\, and he volunteers as an attorney for Millbrook Baptist Church. \nCONTACT US
URL:https://www.aikenrotary.com/event/s-c-state-senator-tom-young-with-a-legislative-update-2/
LOCATION:Newberry Hall\, 117 Newberry St SW\, Aiken\, SC\, 29801\, United States
CATEGORIES:Guest Speaker
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20241209T123000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20241209T133000
DTSTAMP:20260404T161212
CREATED:20241120T221506Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241120T221506Z
UID:6396-1733747400-1733751000@www.aikenrotary.com
SUMMARY:Rysheeka Bush. District Governor for Rotary District 7750 for the 2024-25 term
DESCRIPTION:Rysheeka N. Bush\, MS\, LPC\, is deeply rooted in Aiken County\, hailing from the quaint town of New Ellenton\, S.C.\, with a rich family history woven into the community’s fabric. With over two decades of dedicated service\, she is an integral part of Helping Hands\, Inc.\, a residential facility for children in foster care. Rysheeka’s journey with the agency began as an intern and has flourished into her current role as Clinical Program Manager. In this capacity\, she not only oversees the clinical needs of youth in placement but also facilitates therapeutic training for staff. \nHer academic journey reflects her commitment to serving others. A graduate of Aiken Technical College with Associate of Arts and Human Services Degrees\, she continued her education at the University of South Carolina-Aiken\, earning dual degrees in Psychology and Sociology. Her academic pursuits culminated in a Master of Science Degree in Applied Clinical Psychology from the same institution. Licensed as a Professional Counselor in South Carolina\, Rysheeka specializes in adolescent trauma\, bringing a compassionate and informed approach to her work. \nBeyond her professional endeavors\, Rysheeka’s heart for service extends to her community involvement. As a proud Rotarian with the Rotary Club of Aiken Sunrise\, she has demonstrated exceptional leadership\, earning the distinction of District Governor for Rotary District 7750 for the 2024-25 term. Additionally\, she serves on various boards in the Aiken area\, representing her employer and embodying the values of hard work and dedication instilled by her family. \nDriven by a profound sense of duty and compassion\, Rysheeka N. Bush embodies the spirit of service\, enriching the lives of those around her through her unwavering commitment to helping others. \nRysheeka serves on various volunteer boards in the Aiken area. \nCONTACT US
URL:https://www.aikenrotary.com/event/rysheeka-bush-district-governor-for-rotary-district-7750-for-the-2024-25-term/
LOCATION:Newberry Hall\, 117 Newberry St SW\, Aiken\, SC\, 29801\, United States
CATEGORIES:Cub Business,Guest Speaker
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250113T123000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250113T133000
DTSTAMP:20260404T161212
CREATED:20250102T193732Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250102T194028Z
UID:6448-1736771400-1736775000@www.aikenrotary.com
SUMMARY:Matt Merrifield\, Chief Executive Officer of Aiken Regional
DESCRIPTION:Merrifield returns to Aiken Regional after two years with Summerlin Hospital Medical Center\, a Universal Health Services (UHS) 485-bed acute care facility in Las Vegas\, Nevada\, where he served as Chief Operating Officer. Prior to Summerlin Hospital Medical Center\, he served as Chief Operating Officer at Aiken Regional for four years. “I’m excited to rejoin the Aiken Regional team and return to the Aiken Community\,” said Merrifield. “I look forward to building upon the expansion and achievements the team has accomplished in the past few years as we continue to focus on patient-centered care and expanding services and programs throughout Aiken and our surrounding communities.” \nIn this role\, Merrifield is responsible for driving the growth and performance of the hospital\, as well as providing strategic direction and oversight to help ensure the highest quality of patient care and safety. He is also responsible for driving growth among service lines and cultivating relationships with community leaders and businesses. \nMerrifield has more than 12 years of experience in healthcare leadership. He earned his Master of Business Administration from Darla Moore School of Business at the University of South Carolina and his Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering from West Virginia University. Merrifield and his wife and family are delighted to return to Aiken where they enjoy volunteering. \nMerrifield succeeds Jim O’Loughlin who is retiring from Aiken Regional Medical Centers after having served as CEO since 2019. With nearly 30 years of hospital leadership\, O’Loughlin played an integral role in helping expand Aiken Regional’s service lines\, enhance technologies offered and recruit advanced physicians\, and helping Aiken Regional receive several quality and safety awards and achieve operational success. We thank Jim for his dedicated leadership and we wish him all the best in his retirement. \n“I’m grateful for the time I’ve had in Aiken and with the Aiken Regional team\,” said O’Loughlin. “This hospital and community have been my home for the past 3.5 years and I want to thank each of you for providing me the opportunity to be a part of such a wonderful team\, and I look forward to the amazing growth and opportunities you have ahead. I’m honored that Matt will be stepping into this role and am confident he is going to make a great CEO.” \nCONTACT US
URL:https://www.aikenrotary.com/event/matt-merrifield-chief-executive-officer-of-aiken-regional/
LOCATION:Newberry Hall\, 117 Newberry St SW\, Aiken\, SC\, 29801\, United States
CATEGORIES:Guest Speaker
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250127T123000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250127T133000
DTSTAMP:20260404T161212
CREATED:20250107T213532Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250114T223117Z
UID:6457-1737981000-1737984600@www.aikenrotary.com
SUMMARY:Rotarian Jim Marra\, Citizens for Nuclear Technology Awareness (CNTA) Executive Director
DESCRIPTION:CNTA provides education and information on nuclear technology\, including nuclear waste management and environmental remediation; energy sources; medical applications of radiation; industrial applications\, including food irradiation; nuclear production processes; and national security. Marra brings to the position a career filled with many significant jobs in the nuclear arena\, which gives him a great breadth of knowledge\, said Don Bridges\, CNTA Chairman. “We had many outstanding candidates\, but Jim Marra brings exceptional experience in nuclear work\,” Bridges said. “He not only understands the nuclear industry\, he works well with stakeholders and citizens. He will be an asset as we bring important nuclear information to the forefront.” Marra has a Bachelor of Science degree in Ceramic Science and Bachelor of Arts degree in Mathematics (Alfred University\, Alfred\, NY); a Master’s degree in Materials Engineering (Worcester Polytechnic Institute\, Worcester\, MA); and a Ph.D. in Ceramic and Materials Engineering (Clemson University). Marra began his nuclear career at the Savannah River National Laboratory (SRNL) as a Senior Engineer and progressed to the level of Advisory Engineer. He also spent time as a Senior Scientist for the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Environmental Management (DOE-EM).  Marra has numerous notable awards and achievements\, including the SRNL Don Orth Lifetime of Merit Award in 2015. His background includes work in radioactive and hazardous waste immobilization; nuclear nonproliferation; Fukushima Daiichi technical support; DOE-EM International Program leadership; International Atomic Energy Agency consulting; Hanford Waste and Immobilization Treatment Plant technology development and testing; Plutonium Immobilization Program; new production reactor for weapons materials; and production reactor safety rod development. Marra said he is looking forward to the new challenge of communicating the benefits of nuclear work because it’s important for citizens to understand. “Nuclear plays a role in our everyday lives\,” Marra said. “I’ve spent my life involved in nuclear projects\, and I know first-hand how much our country needs to keep the nuclear industry viable\, and that begins with everyone having a better understanding of what nuclear is and what it does. I look forward to working for CNTA to create a renewed focus.”  \nCONTACT US
URL:https://www.aikenrotary.com/event/rotarian-jim-marra-to-discuss-radiation/
LOCATION:Newberry Hall\, 117 Newberry St SW\, Aiken\, SC\, 29801\, United States
CATEGORIES:Guest Speaker
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250203T123000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250203T133000
DTSTAMP:20260404T161212
CREATED:20250107T214037Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250129T205057Z
UID:6459-1738585800-1738589400@www.aikenrotary.com
SUMMARY:Vice Admiral Chuck Munns and USCA Associate Professor of History Dr. Sarah King discuss 'US Security Implications of Putin's Invasion of Ukraine'
DESCRIPTION:Russia’s invasion and unprovoked war of aggression against Ukraine is today not just an assault on Ukrainian freedom and liberty\, but also a threat to global order\, said U.S. officials.  \nOn Feb. 24\, 2022\, Russia invaded Ukraine. Since then\, Russia has failed to capture Kyiv\, take control of the Ukrainian government\, or stifle the spirit of the Ukrainian people.  \n“The scale of Putin’s blunder is especially stark today\,” said Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III in a statement yesterday. “The Kremlin’s forces failed to win the Battle of Kyiv\, failed to topple Ukraine’s democratically elected government\, and failed to crush the will of the Ukrainian people.  \nSecretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III shakes hands with the Ukrainian president.\n“Ukraine has retaken more than half of the sovereign territory that was grabbed by the Kremlin’s forces in 2022\,” he continued. “And as a result of Putin’s unprovoked war\, Russia has suffered hundreds of thousands of casualties\, lost significant equipment\, and severely set back its military modernization program.”  \nSpotlight: Support for Ukraine \nRussia’s war in Ukraine is not just a threat to Ukraine or the nations that share a border with it. Russia’s war in Ukraine serves as a threat to all of Europe and the rest of the world\, including the United States\, President Joe Biden said.  \n“The American people and people around the world understand that the stakes of this fight extend far beyond Ukraine\,” Biden said in a statement released yesterday. “Ten years ago\, Putin occupied Crimea and created puppet regimes in Ukraine’s Luhansk and Donetsk regions. Two years ago\, he tried to wipe Ukraine off the map. If Putin does not pay the price for his death and destruction\, he will keep going. And the costs to the United States — along with our NATO allies and partners in Europe and around the world — will rise.”  \nSpotlight: NATO\nToday\, as part of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group\, the United States continues to stand with Ukraine\, along with international allies and partners\, to provide what it needs for its defense now and in the future\, Austin said.  \nOfficials sit around a large U-shaped table.\n“Since 2022\, I have regularly convened some 50 countries from around the world as part of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group\,” Austin said. “This global coalition works together to ensure that Ukraine has the capabilities that it needs to defend its people from Russian aggression and take back its sovereign territory.”  \nThe first contact group meeting happened in April 2022 in Germany. At the time\, Austin hosted nearly 40 nations to discuss current and future efforts to provide the support for Ukraine to maintain its sovereignty. Today\, that monthly meeting has grown to some 50\, like-minded nations that are united in their support of Ukraine’s freedom.  \n“I hosted the most recent meeting of this contact group just last week\, and I was struck again by the steadiness of its members’ collective resolve\,” Austin said. “This historic coalition has committed more than $87 billion in security assistance to Ukraine since the start of Putin’s war — including 15 U.S. allies that\, as a percentage of [gross domestic product]\, contribute more to Ukraine’s capability needs than the United States.”  \nSince the start of the Russian invasion\, the U.S. has provided\, through presidential drawdown authority and the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative\, more than $44.2 billion in security assistance to Ukraine.  \nCargo sits in the rear of an aircraft.\nTactical vehicles lined in rows.\nPresidential drawdown authority allows the president in certain circumstances to withdraw weapons\, ammunitions and materiel from existing U.S. military stocks and provide that to other nations. As part of the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative\, DOD contracts for the purchase of materiel to be sent.  \nIncluded in the materiel that has been sent to Ukraine are: air defense systems\, radar systems\, artillery systems\, tanks\, helicopters\, ground-combat and support vehicles\, unmanned aerial systems\, missiles\, rockets\, and millions of rounds of small arms ammunition.  \nIt’s not just equipment and weapons that is needed by Ukraine. Since the start of Russia’s invasion\, the U.S. and partner nations have also provided important training to Ukrainians to improve their combat skills and to help them learn to use the equipment that the U.S. and partners have provided.  \n After two years of Putin’s reckless and lawless war\, we salute Ukraine’s brave defenders\, and we wish Ukraine’s unbowed citizens peace\, security and freedom.”\nSecretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III\nThe U.S. and partners have trained more than 123\,000 Ukrainians at more than 80 locations around the world. The U.S. alone has provided training to some 19\,000 Ukrainian service members on combined arms\, specific combat platforms\, and staff and leadership skills.  \nAlso in the U.S.\, Ukrainian service members are being trained on the use of the F-16 aircraft. Other Ukrainian service members\, both pilots and aircraft maintainers\, are also in the United States to attend English-language classes as part of the F-16 training coalition led by Denmark and the Netherlands.  \nGoing forward\, Austin said\, the U.S. must continue to stand with Ukraine\, not just for the sake of Ukraine’s own freedom and security\, but for that of the world\, as well.  \n“Today’s grim milestone should spur us all to decide what kind of future we want for our children and grandchildren: an open\, secure\, and prosperous world of rules and rights or the violent and lawless world of aggression and chaos that Putin seeks\,” Austin said. “We support Ukraine’s fight for freedom\, both because it is the right thing to do and because doing so is central to America’s continued security. After two years of Putin’s reckless and lawless war\, we salute Ukraine’s brave defenders\, and we wish Ukraine’s unbowed citizens peace\, security and freedom.” \nCONTACT US
URL:https://www.aikenrotary.com/event/rotarian-chuck-munn-to-discuss-ukraine/
LOCATION:Newberry Hall\, 117 Newberry St SW\, Aiken\, SC\, 29801\, United States
CATEGORIES:Guest Speaker
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250210T123000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250210T133000
DTSTAMP:20260404T161212
CREATED:20250107T214456Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250206T220637Z
UID:6461-1739190600-1739194200@www.aikenrotary.com
SUMMARY:Rotarian Dick Rudisil. to discuss Retail Food Industry
DESCRIPTION:Substantial transformations\, driven by a combination of minor and major trends\, have affected one of the United States’ largest sectors\, food retail. These include the impact of the pandemic\, food inflation\, and shifts in consumer behavior that have shaped the industry landscape. For example\, increased demand for online shopping has had a major impact\, with food and beverage sales as a percentage of total retail e-commerce sales increasing from 9.3 percent in 2017 to nearly 16 percent in 2023\, and projected to reach 21.5 percent by 2027. In addition\, the recent inflationary pressure is adding further challenges to the industry\, and driving the need for change and evolution in both retailers and consumer behavior. Despite these challenges\, retail and food services sales in the country have remained strong and continue to experience steady growth. \nHow big is the U.S. food retail industry? \nThe food retail industry in the United States comprises foods sold at grocery stores\, convenience stores\, drug stores\, mass merchandisers\, and foodservice facilities. Major players in the industry include Walmart\, Kroger\, and Walgreens. However\, despite the growth of such major supermarket chains and the emergence of online food purchases\, there is still a significant network of specialty food and convenience stores meeting the needs of local neighborhoods. In the United States\, retail and food services sales amounted to over eight trillion U.S. dollars in 2023\, an increase of more than three percent from the previous year. The total number of supermarkets and other grocery stores in the U.S. has declined slightly to about 62 thousand\, with sales of that format hitting an estimated 846 billion U.S. dollars in 2023\, which accounted for 85 percent of the U.S. food and beverage retail market .  \nCONTACT US
URL:https://www.aikenrotary.com/event/rotarian-dick-rudisil-to-discuss-retail-food-industry/
LOCATION:Newberry Hall\, 117 Newberry St SW\, Aiken\, SC\, 29801\, United States
CATEGORIES:Guest Speaker
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250224T123000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250224T133000
DTSTAMP:20260404T161212
CREATED:20250212T201204Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250212T201204Z
UID:6511-1740400200-1740403800@www.aikenrotary.com
SUMMARY:Ambria Abney\, The Center for African American History\, Art and Culture
DESCRIPTION:The Center for African American History\, Art and Culture is housed in the historic Immanuel Institute\, located on the corner of York Street and Richland Avenue. Reverend W.R. Coles\, an African American Presbyterian missionary\, moved to Aiken in 1881 and established a church and school for freed enslaved people. The Institute began as a small six room house on Newberry Street. As the student population grew\, he built the Immanuel Institute in 1889. Over the years\, the building has housed a variety of education and cultural schools. Among them were Coles Academy\, Coles Normal and Industrial School\, Immanuel Institute\, Jackson School\, Andrew Roberts Institute\, and St. Gerard Catholic School. The restorative process began at the Immanuel Institute in 2004.  A group of community leaders recognized the value of preserving this historic landmark and the potential to use it to capture the rich history of Aiken’s African American Community. The Immanuel Institute is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. With the assistance of corporate\, city\, county\, and individual support and monetary donations\, renovations were completed in 2021.  CAAHAC is delighted to host lecture series\, art shows\, traveling exhibits\, special events\, concert series and more in the community. \nCONTACT US
URL:https://www.aikenrotary.com/event/ambria-abney-the-center-for-african-american-history-art-and-culture/
LOCATION:Newberry Hall\, 117 Newberry St SW\, Aiken\, SC\, 29801\, United States
CATEGORIES:Guest Speaker
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250303T123000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250303T133000
DTSTAMP:20260404T161212
CREATED:20250107T214922Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250228T205903Z
UID:6463-1741005000-1741008600@www.aikenrotary.com
SUMMARY:Rotarian Paul Durban. to discuss Aiken and the Airplane
DESCRIPTION:MARCH 9\, 1911 \nThe first cross-country flight in the Southeast took place on this date in 1911 when Frank Coffyn of the Wright training school took off from a field in west Augusta and flew his biplane on a leisurely path to Aiken\, a 28-mile trip that took 31 minutes. \nFrom the aviation camp near Monte Sano Avenue\, Coffyn flew across the Augusta Country Club golf course\, then headed toward the Hampton Terrace hotel in North Augusta. He continued over Clearwater and then Langley\, and along the flight\, people came out of their houses and watched in wonder. \nWith a showman’s timing\, he landed in front of 1\,000 spectators at the Aiken polo field just as the local team concluded its championship series match with New Orleans. The mayor was there to welcome him. \nCoffyn\, a South Carolina native who had suggested Augusta as a training site because of its winter climate\, would grow famous as an aviator. He even appeared as an actor in several silent movies. \nAlways looking ahead\, he developed an interest in helicopters late in life. He died in California in 1960. \nCONTACT US
URL:https://www.aikenrotary.com/event/rotarian-paul-durban-to-discuss-aiken-and-the-airplane/
LOCATION:Newberry Hall\, 117 Newberry St SW\, Aiken\, SC\, 29801\, United States
CATEGORIES:Guest Speaker
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250310T123000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250310T133000
DTSTAMP:20260404T161212
CREATED:20250220T185325Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250220T185325Z
UID:6544-1741609800-1741613400@www.aikenrotary.com
SUMMARY:Julie Keating\, The Colin James Barth Outreach
DESCRIPTION:The CJB Outreach’s mission is to provide immediate and impactful assistance to women-led households.\nWe believe that a woman should never be in a position where her children are in jeopardy due to not having the resources to fight for custody\, food\, shelter\, or assets. By taking the stress and pressure from a situation\, women make better decisions about their\, and their children’s\, wellbeing rather than being intimidated\, fearful\, and stressed into making poor decisions out of necessity. By providing them with legal assistance to protect them\, and that is paid for\, they no longer have to feel coerced  and can fight for what they need to protect themselves and their children. \nCONTACT US
URL:https://www.aikenrotary.com/event/cjb-outreach/
LOCATION:Newberry Hall\, 117 Newberry St SW\, Aiken\, SC\, 29801\, United States
CATEGORIES:Guest Speaker
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250317T123000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250317T133000
DTSTAMP:20260404T161212
CREATED:20250220T190739Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250220T190739Z
UID:6546-1742214600-1742218200@www.aikenrotary.com
SUMMARY:Dr. Bobby Donaldson\, USC Center for Civil Rights History and Research
DESCRIPTION:Dr. Bobby Donaldson is the Executive Director of the Center for Civil Rights History and Research at the University of South Carolina\, where he focuses on preserving and studying the history of the Civil Rights Movement in South Carolina\, particularly through research\, public outreach\, and educational programs; he is an Associate Professor of History at USC as well.  \nCONTACT US
URL:https://www.aikenrotary.com/event/dr-bobby-donaldson-usc-center-for-civil-rights-history-and-research/
LOCATION:Newberry Hall\, 117 Newberry St SW\, Aiken\, SC\, 29801\, United States
CATEGORIES:Guest Speaker
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250324T123000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250324T133000
DTSTAMP:20260404T161212
CREATED:20250220T192956Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250220T192956Z
UID:6548-1742819400-1742823000@www.aikenrotary.com
SUMMARY:Tenor Nicklaus Porter of Moon River Opera’s
DESCRIPTION:Tenor Nicklaus Porter is an active operatic performer from Augusta\, Georgia. He left his home town in pursuit of furthering his education in music\, earning his double eagle from Georgia Southern University with a M.M. in Vocal Performance\, under the direction of Dr. Arikka Gregory and Dr. Jonathan Murphy\, and B.M. in both Vocal Performance and Music Education\, under the direction of Dr. Kyle Hancock. Some of the roles that he performed includes; Siegmund (Die Walkure)\, Sweeney Todd (Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street)\, The Pirate King (Pirates of Penzance)\, Il Re and The Woodcutter (La bella dormente nel bosco)\, Thomas Putnam (The Crucible)\, and Bartolo (Le nozze di Figaro). He has also been a part of Moon River Opera’s extremely fun and chaotic Improv Opera. While not on stage\, Mr. Porter can be found adjunct teaching at his alma mater\, leading his private voice studio\, and performing at different venues and events. Recently\, he has been accepted and is ecstatic to attend Dolora Zajick’s Institute for Dramatic Voices for this summer. This program is designed to give specific training for growing dramatic voices from operatic coaches and teachers both in the United States and internationally. \nCONTACT US
URL:https://www.aikenrotary.com/event/tenor-nicklaus-porter-of-moon-river-operas/
LOCATION:Newberry Hall\, 117 Newberry St SW\, Aiken\, SC\, 29801\, United States
CATEGORIES:Guest Speaker
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250331T123000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250331T133000
DTSTAMP:20260404T161212
CREATED:20250220T193904Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250327T181849Z
UID:6550-1743424200-1743427800@www.aikenrotary.com
SUMMARY:Lyddie Hansen\, Linda Strojan Discuss the Aiken Rotary Scholarship Program
DESCRIPTION:For many years\, the Rotary Club of Aiken has awarded scholarships to worthy students. We awarded a $7\,500 scholarship to 23 students from the Class of 2024 for a total of $172\,500. \nThis scholarship is open to all 2025 graduating high school students who live in Area 1 or attend an Area 1 school\, including homeschool students. In order to be considered\, all questions on the application must be answered completely. We encourage you to provide a sufficient amount of detail that will distinguish you from other students. Each of this year’s scholarship winners will receive $7500. \nCONTACT US
URL:https://www.aikenrotary.com/event/lyddie-hansen-linda-strojan-discuss-the-aiken-rotary-scholarship-program/
LOCATION:Newberry Hall\, 117 Newberry St SW\, Aiken\, SC\, 29801\, United States
CATEGORIES:Guest Speaker
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250407T123000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250407T133000
DTSTAMP:20260404T161212
CREATED:20250402T202204Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250402T202758Z
UID:6624-1744029000-1744032600@www.aikenrotary.com
SUMMARY:Vice Admiral Chuck Munns\, who will be discussing Quantum Science: Risk and Opportunity
DESCRIPTION:Quantum science presents both significant risks and opportunities\, particularly in cybersecurity and technology development. While quantum computing could revolutionize fields like medicine and materials science\, it also poses a threat to current encryption methods\, potentially exposing sensitive data.\nHere’s a more detailed look at the risks and opportunities:\nOpportunities:\nRevolutionizing Industries:\nQuantum computing could revolutionize industries like medicine\, materials science\, and finance by enabling faster and more accurate simulations and calculations.\nNew Algorithms and Technologies:\nQuantum science could lead to the development of new algorithms and technologies that are impossible with current classical computing.\nQuantum Key Distribution (QKD):\nQuantum technologies can be used for secure communication through QKD\, which is highly secure and difficult to intercept.\nQuantum Sensors:\nQuantum sensors can be used for a variety of applications\, including medical imaging\, environmental monitoring\, and navigation.\nQuantum Computing as a Service:\nQuantum computing as a service is gaining traction\, allowing businesses to access quantum computing capabilities without the need for specialized infrastructure.\nRisks:\nCybersecurity Threats:\nQuantum computers could potentially break current encryption algorithms\, exposing sensitive data to cyberattacks.\n“Harvest Now\, Decrypt Later” Attacks:\nCybercriminals could store encrypted data now\, waiting for quantum computers to become powerful enough to decrypt it later.\nVulnerability of Existing Systems:\nMany current systems rely on encryption that could be vulnerable to quantum attacks\, requiring organizations to develop quantum-resistant solutions.\nEthical Concerns:\nThe development and deployment of quantum technologies raise ethical concerns\, such as the potential for misuse and the need for responsible innovation.\nComplexity and Cost:\nQuantum technologies are complex and expensive\, requiring significant investment and expertise.\nRegulatory Uncertainty:\nThe regulatory landscape for quantum technologies is still evolving\, creating uncertainty for businesses and researchers.\nQuantum Supremacy Uncertainty:\nThe timeline for achieving “quantum supremacy” (when quantum computers outperform classical computers) is uncertain\, making it difficult for organizations to plan their quantum strategies.\nSkill Gaps:\nThere is a shortage of skilled workers in the field of quantum science and technology\, which could hinder the development and deployment of these technologies.  \nCONTACT US
URL:https://www.aikenrotary.com/event/vice-admiral-chuck-munns-who-will-be-discussing-quantum-science-risk-and-opportunity/
LOCATION:Newberry Hall\, 117 Newberry St SW\, Aiken\, SC\, 29801\, United States
CATEGORIES:Guest Speaker
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250414T123000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250414T133000
DTSTAMP:20260404T161212
CREATED:20250312T212722Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250312T212722Z
UID:6576-1744633800-1744637400@www.aikenrotary.com
SUMMARY:Will Williams\, President & CEO of The Western SC Economic Development Partnership on Economic Development Process\, Developments and Impact
DESCRIPTION:Each spring\,  the South Carolina Economic Developers’ Association (SCEDA) recognizes a local developer who has made a significant difference in his or her community.  This year’s winner of SCEDA’s Local Developer of the Year award is Will Williams\, president and CEO of Economic Development Partnership (EDP) — a non-profit\, public-private development corporation focused solely on serving the needs of new and existing businesses in the Aiken\, Edgefield\, and Saluda Region of South Carolina. \nSince 2005\, the SCEDA Local Developer of the Year Award has been earned by hard working and dedicated developers in the Palmetto State. The award criteria include leading innovative programs\, overcoming obstacles\, impactful efforts in the community\, consistent involvement with SCEDA\, professional development and personal traits. \nWilliams received the award in May during SCEDA’s Annual Conference at the Sonesta Resort on Hilton Head Island.  The three-day conference was attended by more than 250 industry professionals. \nWill Williams (in green) being recognized as South Carolina’s 2017 Local Developer of the Year at SCEDA’s Annual Conference.\nA member of SCEDA for close to 20 years\, Williams has a long list of accomplishments\, with “Fostering a strong apprenticeship program at manufacturing companies across Aiken\, Edgefield and Saluda counties” at the top of the list. Over the past seven years\,  Williams has landed more than $1.8 billion in capital investment in the region with close to 2\,200 new jobs. In fact\, in 2011\, Williams helped win a Bridgestone Americas’ $1.2 billion investment in an off -road radial tire plant in Aiken County — still regarded as the largest single capital investment in South Carolina’s history. \nWhile not someone who seeks recognition\, Williams is very appreciative of the award.  “It is very humbling to be honored by your peers\,” he said. Past recognition for Williams includes the W. D. Workman III Buffalo Hunter Award\, presented by the Greenville (S.C.) Area Development Corporation (GADC) for his leadership in facilitating Cytec Industries’ $150 million expansion in Greenville 10 years ago. \nCONTACT US
URL:https://www.aikenrotary.com/event/will-williams-president-ceo-of-the-western-sc-economic-development-partnership-on-economic-development-process-developments-and-impact/
LOCATION:Newberry Hall\, 117 Newberry St SW\, Aiken\, SC\, 29801\, United States
CATEGORIES:Guest Speaker
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250421T123000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250421T133000
DTSTAMP:20260404T161212
CREATED:20250312T213709Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250312T213709Z
UID:6580-1745238600-1745242200@www.aikenrotary.com
SUMMARY:Tim Hardee\, President of the South Carolina Technical College System
DESCRIPTION:Hardee has served over 30 years in education in South Carolina\, including 15 at Central Carolina Technical College. He has been honored by Coastal Carolina University with the Outstanding Alumni award as well as the Sumter Chamber of Commerce Outstanding Achievement Award. Prior to entering higher education administration 15 years ago\, he served as a teacher\, coach\, counselor\, principal and administrator on the K-12 level. \nWith a B.S. in Psychology from Coastal Carolina University\, Hardee also holds an M.Ed. in Counselor Education and an Ed.D. in Educational Administration from the University of South Carolina. He currently serves as a member of the South Carolina Workforce Development Board and is a graduate of the South Carolina Economic Development Institute\, the Furman Diversity Leaders Institute\, and Leadership South Carolina. \nLast year\, Governor McMaster invested $12 million in South Carolina’s technical college system to train residents in the Palmetto State for high-demand jobs. \nAfter seeing more than 6\,000 students trained through this program\, the governor says technical jobs will play a large part in the state’s future economic success. \n“South Carolina has the best technical college of any state in the country\,” said Gov. Henry McMaster. “It’s getting better and it’s getting stronger.” \nThe Palmetto State is home to 16 technical colleges including Midlands Technical College which currently has around 9\,000 students enrolled. \n“Our 16 colleges educate and train more than 134 thousand South Carolinians each year\,” said Roger Schrum of the State Board for Technical and Comprehensive Education. “Our ‘Ready SC’ program trained more than 5\,300 people for new and expanding companies in our state. Our ‘Apprenticeship Carolina’ program has just over 42\,000 employed apprentices across the state this year.” \nTo help South Carolinians find high paying jobs in technical fields and to develop the state’s workforce\, the governor announced a $25 million investment into ‘Workforce Scholarships for the Future’ program. The program helps technical college students afford the training or degree necessary. \n“It is our job to see that this enormous talent pool we have in our state is prepared\, educated and ready to do the work\,” McMaster said. “Businesses of all kinds\, from manufacturing to life sciences\, are looking to come here.” \nCoupled with $39 million allocated by the General Assembly in this year’s state budget\, the program expects to train or retrain approximately 40\,000 South Carolinians. \n“This will bring forth an opportunity for people to gain a skill\, get a good job and work here in the state of South Carolina\,” said Dr. Tim Hardee\, president of the South Carolina Technical College System. “That’s what it means on an individual basis.” \nOne technical college president spoke about the difference scholarships make in individual students’ lives. She uses student Lynn Rogers as an example of someone who made a career move. \n“Like many of our students\, Lynn could not have pursued this change in her career if it had not been for the ‘Workforce Scholarships for the Future’ program\,” said Dr. Hope Rivers\, Piedmont Technical College president. “On behalf of the presidents of the 16 technical colleges around the state\, we thank you.” \n  \nCONTACT US
URL:https://www.aikenrotary.com/event/tim-hardee-president-of-the-south-carolina-technical-college-system-2/
LOCATION:Newberry Hall\, 117 Newberry St SW\, Aiken\, SC\, 29801\, United States
CATEGORIES:Guest Speaker
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250428T123000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250428T133000
DTSTAMP:20260404T161212
CREATED:20250422T202236Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250422T202236Z
UID:6644-1745843400-1745847000@www.aikenrotary.com
SUMMARY:Kaycee Mertz\, Vice President\, Georgia Planning Lead at WSP to discuss Augusta Regional Transportation Study (ARTS)
DESCRIPTION:The Augusta Regional Transportation Study (ARTS) requires involvement by policy makers\, technical staff\, and citizens in order to address the various aspects of the transportation planning process. \nThe Augusta-Richmond County Planning Commission\, recognized as the Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO)\, in cooperation with the Georgia Department of Transportation and the South Carolina Department of Transportation\, is responsible for carrying out the transportation planning process. The Study itself is arranged in a four-committees organizational structure to insure proper participation of those whose involvement is required in the Study.\nThe ARTS Edgefield and Aiken counties includes the urbanized portions of Aiken County\, South Carolina\, and Columbia and Richmond Counties in Georgia. In 1982\, the original ARTS area was expanded to include the City of Aiken and the connecting corridor from Aiken to Augusta\, which were added to the Augusta urbanized area by the 1980 Census. \nAlthough all portions of the area have representation on the three committees\, in the past\, the level of activity has been much greater within the boundaries of the original study area. Due to increasing transportation needs in the expanded ARTS area\, a complete database was recently developed for the entire ARTS area and the models have also been expanded to include the entire area. \n  \nCONTACT US
URL:https://www.aikenrotary.com/event/kaycee-mertz-vice-president-georgia-planning-lead-at-wsp-to-discuss-augusta-regional-transportation-study-arts/
LOCATION:Newberry Hall\, 117 Newberry St SW\, Aiken\, SC\, 29801\, United States
CATEGORIES:Guest Speaker
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250512T123000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250512T133000
DTSTAMP:20260404T161212
CREATED:20250507T220756Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250507T220756Z
UID:6662-1747053000-1747056600@www.aikenrotary.com
SUMMARY:Rotarian Gary L. Stooksbury\, Chief Executive Officer of Aiken Electrical Cooperative\, Inc.
DESCRIPTION:Gary Stooksbury has been CEO of Aiken Electric Cooperative since 1995.  Aiken Electric serves around 52\,000 members in a nine-county service territory in rural South Carolina. He has more than 50 years of experience with management and finance/administration positions in the electric utility business. AEConnect\, Aiken Electric’s broadband provider\, delivers fiber optic internet throughout its service area.  Gary is a past chairman of NRECA’s Community and Economic Development Committee\, among other rural electric industry positions.  In his free time\, Gary enjoys spending time with his family\, especially his grandson Taylor. \n  \nCONTACT US
URL:https://www.aikenrotary.com/event/rotarian-gary-l-stooksbury-chief-executive-officer-of-aiken-electrical-cooperative-inc/
LOCATION:Newberry Hall\, 117 Newberry St SW\, Aiken\, SC\, 29801\, United States
CATEGORIES:Guest Speaker
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250519T123000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250519T133000
DTSTAMP:20260404T161212
CREATED:20250508T214942Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250508T214942Z
UID:6671-1747657800-1747661400@www.aikenrotary.com
SUMMARY:Marty Sawyer\, Aiken County Sheriff
DESCRIPTION:Marty has 40 years of experience in public service which began in 1985 when he joined the G.V.W. Volunteer Fire Department. He remained a member until 2000\, when he departed with the rank of Captain. \nMarty started his Law Enforcement Career as a Public Safety Officer at the Aiken Department of Public Safety in 1989. Marty graduated the South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy in 1990 and was assigned to the patrol/fire division for 8 years. After assignments in the Special Operations Divisions\, Narcotics Division\, and the ATF RAGE Task Force\, Marty was promoted to Captain of Investigations in 2012. Marty’s duties as Captain included supervising adult and juvenile investigations\, narcotic investigations\, victim services\, property and evidence\, school resource officers\, and school crossing guards.  \nMarty has received numerous awards and recognitions for his exemplary service\, including the South Carolina Law Enforcement Officer’s Medal of Valor (2012) and CSRA Narcotics Officer of the Year. The Aiken Department of Public Safety has recognized Marty with the Medal of Valor (2012)\, Distinguished Service Award (2015)\, and Officer of the year (1994). Additionally\, Marty is a 2016 graduate of the FBI National Academy in Quantico\, Virginia and received the 2024 Strom Thurmond Award for Excellence in Law Enforcement.  \nMarty is married to Kimberly Sawyer. They have two daughters Kelsey Sims and Brynna Pilon. Marty and Kim have one grandson\, Boone. \n  \nCONTACT US
URL:https://www.aikenrotary.com/event/marty-sawyer-aiken-county-sheriff/
LOCATION:Newberry Hall\, 117 Newberry St SW\, Aiken\, SC\, 29801\, United States
CATEGORIES:Guest Speaker
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250609T123000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250609T133000
DTSTAMP:20260404T161212
CREATED:20250508T220656Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250603T212345Z
UID:6675-1749472200-1749475800@www.aikenrotary.com
SUMMARY:Capt. Michael Good\, Salvation Army
DESCRIPTION:Homelessness is growing in Aiken\, and the Salvation Army’s shelter is reaching capacity every night. \nWith the growing need of people looking for a place to rest their heads\, the Salvation Army of Aiken is working to bring those numbers down under new leadership. \nCapt. Michael Good is new to the area\, but not to the Salvation Army itself. \nHis family once needed assistance. \nHe says the shelter has been at capacity each day since 2022. \n“We are seeing a rise in the amount of seniors that we serve\, we are seeing a rise in the amount of individuals that have mental health concerns\, we are seeing a rise in families that are coming to us for assistance\,” he said. \nHe says they are pushing their Lifenav Program\, which partners their clients with a case worker who takes a look into what brought them here to need help. \n“It could be education\, it could be budgeting\, it could be even mental health\, so what we strive to do is to partner that individual with resources internally or externally with other partner agencies to help bring that individual to self-efficiency\, re-housing them\, as well as breaking cycles of poverty in their life\,” said Good. \nThey have a soup kitchen at their shelter which serves almost 200 meals daily.\n  \nCONTACT US
URL:https://www.aikenrotary.com/event/salvation-army/
LOCATION:Newberry Hall\, 117 Newberry St SW\, Aiken\, SC\, 29801\, United States
CATEGORIES:Guest Speaker
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250616T123000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250616T133000
DTSTAMP:20260404T161212
CREATED:20250508T221721Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250508T221923Z
UID:6677-1750077000-1750080600@www.aikenrotary.com
SUMMARY:Leadership Aiken County
DESCRIPTION:Leadership Aiken County (LAC) is a program designed to identify\, develop\, and motivate new leadership for the Aiken County community. \nEstablished in 1981\, LAC seeks to develop a group of informed\, committed\, and qualified individuals capable of providing dynamic community leadership for Aiken County. \nProgram objectives are accomplished through a competitive selection process\, intensive team-building activities\, and exposure to local issues\, regional resources\, and various city\, county\, state\, and federal leaders. Participants learn more about the critical issues of the community than many lifelong residents. \nLAC offers an intensive and up-close look at various sectors/areas of the community\, from the larger cities of North Augusta and Aiken to the rural towns and unincorporated areas. Participants in LAC have the opportunity to explore and analyze issues that impact their county\, while focusing on fundamental leadership principles. \nIn addition to examining leadership roles in political\, social and economic affairs\, participants will get the chance to interact with a variety of community leaders. LAC guarantees increased understanding and change within each participant. \nLeadership graduates join a growing network of alumni who are valued participants in the community and in the governmental activities that will determine the future of Aiken County. \n  \nCONTACT US
URL:https://www.aikenrotary.com/event/leadership-aiken-county/
LOCATION:Newberry Hall\, 117 Newberry St SW\, Aiken\, SC\, 29801\, United States
CATEGORIES:Guest Speaker
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250707T123000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250707T133000
DTSTAMP:20260404T161212
CREATED:20250702T184452Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250702T184452Z
UID:6770-1751891400-1751895000@www.aikenrotary.com
SUMMARY:Gary Bunker\, Aiken County Council Chair\, with an Aiken County Council Update
DESCRIPTION:Gary has been appointed to several committees. He served on the Mattie C. Hall Healthcare Commission (appointed by Councilman Rick Osbon) from 1997 through 2002\, and served as chairman during the last year. He was on the Aiken County Board of Appeals (appointed by Osbon) in 2003 and the Aiken County Transportation Committee (appointed by Sen. Greg Ryberg) in 2004. \nAfter his service on County Council\, Gary served on the Board of the Economic Development Partnership (appointed by Councilman Scott Singer) from 2013 through 2014 and is currently serving a second stint on the Board of Appeals (appointed by Councilwoman Camille Furgiuele) from 2015 to the present. \nGary also has been active in the Aiken County Republican Party. He was president of the Aiken Republican Club in 2004\, Chairman of the Aiken County Young Republicans in 1995\, Executive Committeeman of the Aiken County Republican Party from 1997 to 1999\, and chaired every Aiken County Republican Party Convention between 2003 and 2017. He’s held precinct level positions (variously precinct president and precinct committeeman) in Hollow Creek 53\, Gem Lakes 60\, and Gem Lakes 77 over the last 20 years. \nCONTACT US
URL:https://www.aikenrotary.com/event/gary-bunker-aiken-county-council-chair-with-an-aiken-county-council-update-2/
LOCATION:Newberry Hall\, 117 Newberry St SW\, Aiken\, SC\, 29801\, United States
CATEGORIES:Guest Speaker
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250714T123000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250714T133000
DTSTAMP:20260404T161212
CREATED:20250702T185509Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250702T185509Z
UID:6772-1752496200-1752499800@www.aikenrotary.com
SUMMARY:Superintendent of Education: Ellen Weaver
DESCRIPTION:Ellen Weaver was elected as South Carolina’s 19th State Superintendent of Education on November 9th\, 2022.  Born in Greenville\, Ellen has spent her career as a passionate advocate for educational excellence and opportunity for every student in her beloved home state\, because she knows first-hand that a great education is the front door of the American Dream. \nEllen graduated from a great public school and earned her B.A. in Political Science\, as well as a Master’s in Educational Leadership\, from Bob Jones University.  After graduation\, she worked in Senator Jim DeMint’s office for 12 years in a variety of roles\, finishing her time as his State Director. She founded Palmetto Promise Institute\, a leading state public policy organization\, in 2013.  As President of Palmetto Promise\, she worked tirelessly to improve the lives of her fellow-South Carolinians\, with a specialized focus on education policy. \nBetween her research at Palmetto Promise and her work as a member and chair of the SC Education Oversight Committee\, Ellen’s deep experience in education policy in South Carolina gave her a relentless passion for ensuring every child the hope and freedom found in an excellent education. \nEllen is focused on prioritizing the instruction of foundational skills\, recruiting and retaining the best educators\, and partnering with parents—as well as business and other community leaders—to prepare students for their personal path to success. \nCONTACT US
URL:https://www.aikenrotary.com/event/superintendent-of-education-ellen-weaver/
LOCATION:Newberry Hall\, 117 Newberry St SW\, Aiken\, SC\, 29801\, United States
CATEGORIES:Guest Speaker
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250721T123000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250721T133000
DTSTAMP:20260404T161212
CREATED:20250702T190739Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250702T190739Z
UID:6774-1753101000-1753104600@www.aikenrotary.com
SUMMARY:Western Golf Assn / Evans Scholars Foundation
DESCRIPTION:The Western Golf Association conducts championships for professional and amateur golfers\, promotes the use of youth caddies and supports the Evans Scholars Foundation’s efforts to award full tuition and housing college scholarships to high-achieving caddies with limited financial means \nCONTACT US
URL:https://www.aikenrotary.com/event/western-golf-assn-evans-scholars-foundation/
LOCATION:Newberry Hall\, 117 Newberry St SW\, Aiken\, SC\, 29801\, United States
CATEGORIES:Guest Speaker
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250728T123000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250728T133000
DTSTAMP:20260404T161212
CREATED:20250703T194033Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250703T194033Z
UID:6776-1753705800-1753709400@www.aikenrotary.com
SUMMARY:Rotary Readers Update\, Melanie Starks and Lisa Fallaw
DESCRIPTION:Started in 2013\, Rotary Readers is a signature program and joint literacy project between Aiken Rotary Club and East Aiken School of the Arts. Rotarians and other volunteers work with small groups of students to improve reading skills. Volunteers are assigned to groups of four\, and at least one member of each group works with a small group of students (usually four) for thirty minutes each week to improve reading\, reading comprehension and vocabulary. This program encourages a love of reading and provides the students with positive role models. Throughout the school year\, relationships are built\, and volunteers are invited to attend school programs. \nAt the beginning and end of the school year students are tested and annual program results are presented to the club to monitor the success of the program. Over the seven years\, the annual results have been overwhelming positive of the impact of the program on the participants. The program is modified each year to better serve the students and continue to improve results. Over five hundred volunteers have participated over the seven years the program has been in existence. \nCONTACT US
URL:https://www.aikenrotary.com/event/rotary-readers-update-melanie-starks-and-lisa-fallaw/
LOCATION:Newberry Hall\, 117 Newberry St SW\, Aiken\, SC\, 29801\, United States
CATEGORIES:Guest Speaker
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250804T123000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250804T133000
DTSTAMP:20260404T161212
CREATED:20250520T215040Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250520T220649Z
UID:6695-1754310600-1754314200@www.aikenrotary.com
SUMMARY:Mark Ward\, the Walk to End Alzheimer's Walk Organizer
DESCRIPTION:Held annually in more than 600 communities nationwide\, the Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s® is the world’s largest fundraiser for Alzheimer’s care\, support and research. This inspiring event calls on participants of all ages and abilities to join the fight against the disease. \nSince 1989\, the Alzheimer’s Association mobilized millions of Americans in the Alzheimer’s Association Memory Walk® ; now the Alzheimer’s Association is continuing to lead the way with Walk to End Alzheimer’s. \nAlzheimer’s Association Memory Walk\nWhile there is no fee to register for Walk\, all participants are encouraged to raise critical funds that allow the Alzheimer’s Association to provide 24/7 care and support and advance research toward methods of prevention\, treatment and\, ultimately\, a cure. \nHow to Participate in 3 Easy Steps: \nRegister\nRegister for your local Walk.\nStart or join a team and invite others to walk with you.\nFundraise\nStart fundraising and spread the word.\nWe’ll provide tips and coaching every step of the way\, including easy ways to recruit others and raise funds.\nWalk day\nJoin us on Walk day.\nCome together for an inspiring community event that celebrates our commitment to ending the disease.\nHave a question? Please refer to our FAQ/Website Help page. \nCONTACT US
URL:https://www.aikenrotary.com/event/mark-ward-the-walk-to-end-alzheimers-walk-organizer-2/
LOCATION:Newberry Hall\, 117 Newberry St SW\, Aiken\, SC\, 29801\, United States
CATEGORIES:Guest Speaker
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250811T123000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250811T133000
DTSTAMP:20260404T161212
CREATED:20250520T215926Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250520T220455Z
UID:6703-1754915400-1754919000@www.aikenrotary.com
SUMMARY:USC Aiken Chancellor Dr. Heimmermann with an USC Aiken Update
DESCRIPTION:USC Aiken Chancellor Dr. Heimmermann will give a USCA Update\, including Advanced Manufacturing Center. The facility will provide accessible\, modern and flexible laboratory space for EM’s SRNL and its collaboration partners. \nDr. Daniel J. Heimmermann became the fifth Chancellor of the University of South Carolina Aiken on July 1\, 2021.  \nOriginally from Wisconsin\, Chancellor Heimmermann received undergraduate degrees in history and Spanish before earning Master of Arts and Ph.D. degrees in early-modern French history from Marquette University.    \nBefore coming to USC Aiken\, Dr. Heimmermann served as Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs at the University of Texas Permian Basin (2014-2021) where he ranked as the most senior chief academic officer in the University of Texas System. Prior to this\, he held the same role at Mississippi University for Women from 2012-2014\, and from 2008-2012 he served as Dean of the College of Liberal Arts at the University of Texas at Brownsville (presently The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley).    \nDr. Heimmermann began his academic career at the University of North Alabama (1994-2008) where he served as a Professor of History and Chair of the Department of History and Political Science (2001-2008). As a faculty member\, Dr. Heimmermann was a recipient of a number of research fellowships and was recognized for excellence in teaching.  \nA historian of early-modern France\, Dr. Heimmermann has taught undergraduate and graduate courses in early-modern European history and the French Revolution and Napoleonic periods. Dr. Heimmermann’s area of research is French social\, economic\, and cultural history\, specifically the history of preindustrial labor. Dr. Heimmermann has conducted extensive archival research in Paris\, France at the Archives Nationales and Biliothèque Nationale and in Bordeaux\, France at the Archives Départementales de la Gironde and the Archives Municipales de Bordeaux. His scholarly work has been presented at both national and international conferences on French and European history\, and his research has appeared in published scholarly articles and his book\, Work\, Regulation\, and Identity in Provinical France which explores the preindustrial manufacturing economy and craft worker culture of eighteenth-century Bordeaux.   \nThroughout his administrative career\, Dr. Heimmermann has taken a leading role in conceiving\, creating\, advocating\, and implementing innovative and accessible undergraduate and graduate academic programs which address student\, industry\, and societal needs. Among other academic initiatives\, he has led the creation of signature programs in engineering\, business\, Spanish\, nursing\, as well as numerous industry-aligned graduate and undergraduate certificate programs in emerging areas such as cyber security\, data science\, gaming and simulation\, network administration security\, software development\, and website design and development. In support of building synergistic opportunities\, Dr. Heimmermann established colleges in health sciences and human performance\, engineering\, nursing\, business\, a school of nursing\, as well as academic and research centers/institutes in biomedical science\, cyber security and information\, natural resource management\, and water and energy whose applied research focus on solving the nation’s most pressing challenges.  \nLaser focused on student success\, Chancellor Heimmermann supports high-quality academic advising and high-impact and engaged teaching and learning. He aims to instill in his colleagues an awareness and responsibility for student success.    \nIn addition to his work on campus\, Dr. Heimmermann has devoted his career to establishing impactful relationships and partnerships with local and state organizations\, businesses\, and industries in support of local communities and economies. \nHaving grown up only twenty miles from the “Frozen Tundra” of Lambeau Field\, Dr. Heimmermann is a diehard Green Bay Packers fan. In fact\, he is one of 360\,760 owners of the publicly owned team! An avid sports fan\, he naturally supports Pacer Athletics as well. \nAbove all\, Chancellor Heimmermann spends his free time with his family. He is married to Claudia\, and they have one daughter\, Lucie\, and two dogs\, Ollie and Sofie.  \nCONTACT US
URL:https://www.aikenrotary.com/event/usc-aiken-chancellor-dr-heimmermann-with-an-usc-aiken-update/
LOCATION:Newberry Hall\, 117 Newberry St SW\, Aiken\, SC\, 29801\, United States
CATEGORIES:Guest Speaker
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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250818T123000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250818T133000
DTSTAMP:20260404T161212
CREATED:20250521T203428Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250521T204621Z
UID:6705-1755520200-1755523800@www.aikenrotary.com
SUMMARY:Dominique  Bunton of Bridge 2 Home
DESCRIPTION:The mission of The Bridge 2 Home (The Bridge) is to provide a safe and loving home for girls who have experienced child sex trafficking\, where they can find healing and growth and can experience the love of a perfect Heavenly Father who pursues them. This means that they will experience love and acceptance at The Bridge regardless of their faith and beliefs. The girls will have opportunities to participate in youth focused activities to support their spiritual growth and experience community.  The girls will never experience discrimination due to different beliefs or lack of belief.  If they choose not to participate in faith driven activities\, alternative activities will be offered based upon the individual interests of each girl. \nCONTACT US
URL:https://www.aikenrotary.com/event/dominique-bunton-of-bridge-2-home/
LOCATION:Newberry Hall\, 117 Newberry St SW\, Aiken\, SC\, 29801\, United States
CATEGORIES:Guest Speaker
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