BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//Rotary Club Of Aiken - ECPv6.15.18//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://www.aikenrotary.com X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Rotary Club Of Aiken REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:America/New_York BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20240310T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20241103T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20250309T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20251102T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20260308T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20261101T060000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250512T123000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250512T133000 DTSTAMP:20260403T144737 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:20260403T144737 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:20250526T123000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250526T133000 DTSTAMP:20260403T144737 CREATED:20250508T215358Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250508T215358Z UID:6673-1748262600-1748266200@www.aikenrotary.com SUMMARY:Memorial Day - NO MEETING DESCRIPTION:“As we express our gratitude\, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter the words\, but to live by them.” – John F. Kennedy \nCONTACT US URL:https://www.aikenrotary.com/event/memorial-day-no-meeting-2/ LOCATION:Newberry Hall\, 117 Newberry St SW\, Aiken\, SC\, 29801\, United States END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250602T123000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250602T133000 DTSTAMP:20260403T144737 CREATED:20250312T213113Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250312T213113Z UID:6578-1748867400-1748871000@www.aikenrotary.com SUMMARY:Club Assembly DESCRIPTION:Club President\, Forest Mahan\, will give us an overview of Rotary\, Avenues of Service\, Club background and demographics\, brief SWOT overview. He will also discuss goals for 2024-25\, and list of officers and board members. He will give out Service Awards from last year. \nCONTACT US URL:https://www.aikenrotary.com/event/club-assembly-4/ LOCATION:Newberry Hall\, 117 Newberry St SW\, Aiken\, SC\, 29801\, United States CATEGORIES:Cub Business END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250609T123000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250609T133000 DTSTAMP:20260403T144737 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:20260403T144737 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:20250623T123000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250623T133000 DTSTAMP:20260403T144738 CREATED:20250508T222507Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250508T222507Z UID:6679-1750681800-1750685400@www.aikenrotary.com SUMMARY:End of the Year Celebration DESCRIPTION:CONTACT US URL:https://www.aikenrotary.com/event/end-of-the-year-celebration/ LOCATION:Newberry Hall\, 117 Newberry St SW\, Aiken\, SC\, 29801\, United States CATEGORIES:Cub Business END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250630T123000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250630T133000 DTSTAMP:20260403T144738 CREATED:20250620T193935Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250620T193935Z UID:6743-1751286600-1751290200@www.aikenrotary.com SUMMARY:Installation Ceremony DESCRIPTION:We will take the opportunity to reactivate the ceremony to install our new president\, officers\, and board members at the June 30 meeting. \nLong-term members will recall the ceremony in which all past presidents participated. An invitation has already been sent to our past presidents requesting their participation if available. \nIn addition\, incoming District Governor Dave Brenner plans to attend the June 30 ceremony. \n  \nCONTACT US URL:https://www.aikenrotary.com/event/installation-ceremony/ LOCATION:Newberry Hall\, 117 Newberry St SW\, Aiken\, SC\, 29801\, United States CATEGORIES:Cub Business END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250707T123000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250707T133000 DTSTAMP:20260403T144738 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:20260403T144738 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:20260403T144738 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:20260403T144738 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:20260403T144738 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:20260403T144738 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 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250818T123000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250818T133000 DTSTAMP:20260403T144738 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 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250825T123000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250825T133000 DTSTAMP:20260403T144738 CREATED:20250521T204220Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250716T191200Z UID:6707-1756125000-1756128600@www.aikenrotary.com SUMMARY:Scott Weiss\, Music Director and Conductor of the Aiken Symphony Orchestra DESCRIPTION:Scott Weiss is the Music Director and Conductor of the Aiken Symphony Orchestra and the Director of Orchestras at the University of South Carolina School of Music. In demand internationally as a guest conductor\, Scott has conducted recent performances with the orchestras of Shenzhen\, Tianjin\, Hunan\, Inner Mongolia\, Shandong\, and Nanchang and at major international venues including the Taipei National Theatre and Concert Hall\, the National Centre for the Performing Arts Concert Hall in Beijing\, and the Hangzhou Grand Theatre Concert Hall. Soloists he has recently shared the stage with include Elena Urioste\, Angelo Xiang Yu\, Zuill Bailey\, John O’Conor\, Marina Lomazov\, and Paul Jacobs. \nScott has several critically-acclaimed recordings on the Naxos Records and Summit Records labels. His latest offering is the world premiere recording of Nico Muhly’s Reliable Sources\, released on the Cantaloupe Music label in October 2021. The piece is one of dozens of new works that Scott has commissioned from many of today’s leading composers\, including Samuel Adler\, Jennifer Higdon\, Zhou Long\, Cindy McTee\, and Joseph Schwanter. \nAt the University of South Carolina\, Dr. Weiss is the Sarah Bolick Smith Professor of Music. In addition to conducting the UofSC Symphony Orchestra\, Professor Weiss leads the master’s and doctoral programs in orchestral conducting at UofSC\, and his studio is a destination for talented young conductors from around the world. He is frequently invited to conduct performances and teach masterclasses at leading conservatoires and music schools\, including the Sydney Conservatorium of Music\, the Central Conservatory of Music (Beijing)\, the Shanghai Conservatory of Music\, and the University of Western Australia. Each summer\, he teaches at the Los Angeles Conducting Workshop and Competition. \nBorn in Monterey\, California in 1967\, Scott holds degrees from the Indiana University Jacobs School of Music and the University of Illinois\, where he studied conducting with Donald Schleicher. Before joining the faculty at the University of South Carolina in 2010\, he held conducting posts at the University of Kansas and the Indiana University Jacobs School of Music. \nScott and his wife Teah are intrepid travelers and enjoy hiking\, surfing\, and fine wines. They are the proud parents of John\, a chemical engineer in Los Alamos\, NM. \n  \nCONTACT US URL:https://www.aikenrotary.com/event/scott-weiss-music-director-and-conductor-of-the-aiken-symphony-orchestra/ LOCATION:Newberry Hall\, 117 Newberry St SW\, Aiken\, SC\, 29801\, United States CATEGORIES:Guest Speaker END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250901T123000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250901T133000 DTSTAMP:20260403T144738 CREATED:20250520T214650Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250520T214650Z UID:6696-1756729800-1756733400@www.aikenrotary.com SUMMARY:Labor Day Holiday - NO MEETING DESCRIPTION:  \nCONTACT US URL:https://www.aikenrotary.com/event/labor-day-holiday-no-meeting-2/ LOCATION:Newberry Hall\, 117 Newberry St SW\, Aiken\, SC\, 29801\, United States END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250908T123000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250908T133000 DTSTAMP:20260403T144738 CREATED:20250508T224309Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250703T194259Z UID:6681-1757334600-1757338200@www.aikenrotary.com SUMMARY:Laura Warren\, Community Development Regional Manager for Meta DESCRIPTION:Meta\, the parent company of Facebook\, Instagram\, Threads\, and other social media platforms\, is building an $800 million data center in the Sage Mill Industrial Park. \nLaura Warren\, Meta’s Community Development Regional Manager\, brought the importance of data centers to the personal level. She explained that everything an individual does on their computer or smartphone is processed in a data center to be shared as intended. \n“If you ask AI to envision you on a beach with a margarita\, and then it sends you back a picture\, that information isn’t processed on your phone\,” she explained. “It is processed behind the scenes at one of our data centers\, which has thousands and thousands of servers. Each server that we have\, we have tens of thousands in each of our data centers\, can hold more information and process more information than the entire Library of Congress holds.” \nShe said Meta currently has 28 data centers globally\, with 24 of them in the U.S. She said a number of factors brought the company to Aiken County\, including a “shovel-ready” site\, infrastructure and zoning in place\, and a strong pool of local talent from which to hire. \nAnother factor was access to reliable and renewable energy. Data centers have been a target of criticism for the amount of power they require. “That’s why\,” said Warren\, “Meta puts an emphasis on building sustainable data centers.” \n  \nCONTACT US URL:https://www.aikenrotary.com/event/laura-warren-community-development-regional-manager-for-meta/ LOCATION:Newberry Hall\, 117 Newberry St SW\, Aiken\, SC\, 29801\, United States CATEGORIES:Guest Speaker END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250915T123000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250915T133000 DTSTAMP:20260403T144738 CREATED:20250819T204202Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250819T204202Z UID:6896-1757939400-1757943000@www.aikenrotary.com SUMMARY:Senator Katrina Shealy\, Andrea Gregory. Mental Health DESCRIPTION:Shealy\, who served as a South Carolina State Senator for 12 years and as a licensed insurance agent for 40\, is a powerhouse advocate for people with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. She has worked closely with doctors and researchers\, advocated for funding and tackled the stigma surrounding Alzheimer’s head-on. \nI became deeply involved with the Alzheimer’s Association and other advocacy organizations. I worked tirelessly to raise awareness\, push for better resources and educate others about the disease. One of my proudest moments was receiving an award from Leeza Gibbons for my work in Alzheimer’s advocacy—a recognition that underscored how far I had come in using my voice to make a difference. \nOne of the areas I’ve focused on is addressing brain health disparities in rural communities\, which is exactly what USC Brain Health does. I’ve seen firsthand how stigma and a lack of resources prevent people from seeking the care they need. Specialists aren’t coming to rural areas unless we build the facilities to attract them\, so I’ve embraced the mindset of “if you build it\, they will come.” My vision is to help create a world-class Brain Health Network and Brain Health Center that will serve as beacons of hope for people across the state\, offering the care and support they deserve. \n  \nCONTACT US URL:https://www.aikenrotary.com/event/senator-katrina-shealy-andrea-gregory-mental-health/ LOCATION:Newberry Hall\, 117 Newberry St SW\, Aiken\, SC\, 29801\, United States CATEGORIES:Guest Speaker END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250922T123000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250922T133000 DTSTAMP:20260403T144738 CREATED:20250716T193519Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250724T215333Z UID:6811-1758544200-1758547800@www.aikenrotary.com SUMMARY:Carol Burdette\, CART President DESCRIPTION:In October 1995\, the Sumter Rotary Club in South Carolina\, led by Roger Ackerman and Dr. Jack Bevan\, initiated the effort to prove that Rotarians voluntarily emptying their pockets of change for a good cause could produce significant levels of funds to support Alzheimer’s Disease research. The CART Fund (Coins for Alzheimer’s Research Trust) was the name given to the project. \nIn May 1996\, The CART Fund was introduced at the Rotary District 7770 Conference and was enthusiastically received. The District leaders agreed to adopt CART as a project if a committee made up of Sumter Rotarians could obtain the support of the individual clubs in the District. During the 1996-97 Rotary year\, CART programs were presented in 62 of the 68 clubs in D-7770. The response was overwhelmingly in support of this grassroots project and the district officially adopted CART as a district-wide program in 1997. \n  \nCONTACT US URL:https://www.aikenrotary.com/event/carol-burdette-cart-president/ LOCATION:Newberry Hall\, 117 Newberry St SW\, Aiken\, SC\, 29801\, United States CATEGORIES:Cub Business,Guest Speaker END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250929T123000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250929T133000 DTSTAMP:20260403T144738 CREATED:20250819T205547Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250925T201742Z UID:6898-1759149000-1759152600@www.aikenrotary.com SUMMARY:Dr. Jeff Griffin\, President and CEO of Savannah River Nuclear Solutions (SRNS) DESCRIPTION:Dr. Jeffrey (Jeff) C. Griffin is the President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Savannah River Nuclear Solutions\, LLC (SRNS)\, responsible to the Department of Energy (DOE) for safe\, effective and efficient management and operations of the Savannah River Site (SRS). SRS is one of DOE’s largest production sites\, performing activities ranging from environmental cleanup and protection\, to nuclear materials storage and disposition\, including operation of the only U.S. tritium plant and design and construction of the Savannah River Plutonium Processing Facility. His responsibilities include providing vision\, leadership\, mission growth\, technological advancement\, and a performancebased culture of safety\, security and operational excellence at the Site. Before being named President and CEO\, Jeff served as the Senior Vice President for Plutonium Disposition Operations and Programs for Savannah River Nuclear Solutions (SRNS). He was responsible for the safe execution of K Area Facility Operations\, the Nuclear Nonproliferation Program and the Surplus Plutonium Disposition Project. Jeff has more than 30 years in leading multimillion-dollar research and development programs\, nuclear operations support\, and technology development initiatives in a highly regulated environment. Jeff’s most recent position was as Vice-President of Science & Technology for Canadian Nuclear Laboratories where he managed an organization conducting work in nuclear power\, environmental remediation and nuclear medicine. Prior to joining CNL\, Jeff led field operations for the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Environmental Management (DOE-EM) where he implemented a risk reduction campaign to accelerate the closure of DOE EM sites. Preceding the DOE-EM assignment\, Jeff served as the Associate Laboratory Director at the Savannah River National Laboratory (SRNL)\, the U.S. DOE’s lead environmental cleanup laboratory. Jeff is a demonstrated leader in directing multi-functional teams through major initiatives while optimizing resources and enhancing customer satisfaction. The Savannah River Site is owned by the U.S. Department of Energy. The management and operating contract is held by Savannah River Nuclear Solutions\, LLC. \n  \nCONTACT US URL:https://www.aikenrotary.com/event/dr-jeff-griffin-president-and-ceo-of-savannah-river-nuclear-solutions-srns/ LOCATION:Newberry Hall\, 117 Newberry St SW\, Aiken\, SC\, 29801\, United States CATEGORIES:Guest Speaker END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20251006T123000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251006T133000 DTSTAMP:20260403T144738 CREATED:20250716T195413Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250716T195413Z UID:6813-1759753800-1759757400@www.aikenrotary.com SUMMARY:Philipp Steinle\, Vice President Operations - Campus Aiken\, Rolls-Royce Solutions America DESCRIPTION:Rolls-Royce provides world-class power solutions and complete life-cycle support under the product and solution brand mtu. Through digitalization and electrification\, we develop drive and power generation solutions that are even cleaner and smarter and thus provide answers to the challenges posed by the rapidly growing societal demands for energy and mobility. \nWe deliver and service comprehensive\, powerful and reliable systems\, based on both gas and diesel engines\, as well as electrified hybrid systems. These clean and technologically-advanced solutions serve our customers in the marine and infrastructure sectors worldwide. The Business Unit Power Systems of Rolls-Royce is headquartered in Friedrichshafen.\n  \nCONTACT US URL:https://www.aikenrotary.com/event/philipp-steinle-vice-president-operations-campus-aiken-rolls-royce-solutions-america/ LOCATION:Newberry Hall\, 117 Newberry St SW\, Aiken\, SC\, 29801\, United States CATEGORIES:Guest Speaker END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20251013T123000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251013T133000 DTSTAMP:20260403T144738 CREATED:20250703T194851Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251008T221305Z UID:6778-1760358600-1760362200@www.aikenrotary.com SUMMARY:Pies for Polio\, Peggy Ford DESCRIPTION:October is World Polio month and Rotarian’s focus on the END POLIO NOW campaign to remove this terrible disease from the earth!! Our club had fun raising money for END POLIO NOW with PIES FOR POLIO!! \n  \nCONTACT US URL:https://www.aikenrotary.com/event/pies-for-polio-peggy-ford/ LOCATION:Newberry Hall\, 117 Newberry St SW\, Aiken\, SC\, 29801\, United States CATEGORIES:Cub Business,Guest Speaker END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20251020T123000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251020T133000 DTSTAMP:20260403T144738 CREATED:20250107T215256Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251016T185620Z UID:6465-1760963400-1760967000@www.aikenrotary.com SUMMARY:Rotarian Chuck Munn. Vietnam Testimonial DESCRIPTION:Each of the 2.7 million Americans who served “in country” during the Vietnam War had a unique experience\, shaped by a vast array of factors—perhaps especially the place or places in which they served. To an outsider\, Vietnam might conjure up a mental image of verdant rice paddies or dense and humid jungle terrain. As Veterans History Project collections make clear\, during the war\, members of the military found themselves in a wide variety of different regions and venues throughout Vietnam\, from bustling cities to the surgical wards of evacuation hospitals and even inside the walls of enemy prisons. \nCONTACT US URL:https://www.aikenrotary.com/event/rotarian-chuck-munn-to-discuss-leadership-from-submariners-perspective/ LOCATION:Newberry Hall\, 117 Newberry St SW\, Aiken\, SC\, 29801\, United States CATEGORIES:Guest Speaker END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20251027T123000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251027T133000 DTSTAMP:20260403T144738 CREATED:20251002T210007Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251002T210007Z UID:6993-1761568200-1761571800@www.aikenrotary.com SUMMARY:David Brenner\, Rotary District Governor (2025-26) DESCRIPTION:Dave joined the Rotary Club of Greenville Breakfast in 2013. He served as his club’s president in 2015-16 and again in 2020-21. He served as an Assistant Governor and RYLA Chair for District 7750 from 2021-2024. He is a graduate of the Rotary Leadership Institute. Dave supports the Rotary Foundation as a Paul Harris Society member and is a Major Donor. \nDave is a graduate of Westminster College in Pennsylvania with a BS in Physics. He holds an MS degree in Aeronautical Systems from West Florida and an MSBA from Indiana University. He served 7 years in the US Navy as a Naval Aviator. After the Navy\, he spent 34 years in the tire business retiring from Michelin in 2011. His career in the tire business included Tire Development\, Quality\, and Manufacturing. He was the Plant Manager at the Michelin plants in Ft Wayne\, Indiana; Tuscaloosa\, Alabama; and his final 7 years prior to retirement as Plant Manager of the Ardmore\, Oklahoma Plant. \nDuring his career he was always active in the communities in which he worked\, serving on numerous committees and boards. He was the Council President of the Arbuckle Area Council\, BSA\, for 3 years. He is an Eagle Scout\, recipient of the Silver Beaver Award\, and the National Eagle Scout Association’s prestigious Outstanding Eagle Scout Award. Dave served as Chairman of the Board of Mercy Hospital in Ardmore\, Ok. He also served on the Executive Committee of the Oklahoma Business Roundtable (economic development). He currently serves on the Executive Board of the Blue Ridge Council\, BSA. \nIn his spare time\, Dave enjoys golf\, fishing\, hiking and reading. He and Peggy have been married for 51 years. They have 3 children and 4 grandchildren located in Columbia City\, Indiana and Tampa\, Florida. \nCONTACT US URL:https://www.aikenrotary.com/event/david-brenner-rotary-district-governor-2025-26/ LOCATION:Newberry Hall\, 117 Newberry St SW\, Aiken\, SC\, 29801\, United States CATEGORIES:Guest Speaker END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20251103T123000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251103T133000 DTSTAMP:20260403T144738 CREATED:20250710T180107Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250710T180624Z UID:6798-1762173000-1762176600@www.aikenrotary.com SUMMARY:Aimee Hanna\, Executive Director at Aiken Senior Life Services DESCRIPTION:By providing meals\, transportation\, and social interaction to older adults\, Aiken Senior Life Services – a private\, charitable nonprofit organization established in 1971 – allows Aiken County seniors to gracefully age in place. \nCONTACT US URL:https://www.aikenrotary.com/event/aimee-hanna-executive-director-at-aiken-senior-life-services/ LOCATION:Newberry Hall\, 117 Newberry St SW\, Aiken\, SC\, 29801\, United States CATEGORIES:Guest Speaker END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20251110T123000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251110T133000 DTSTAMP:20260403T144738 CREATED:20250710T181557Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250710T181557Z UID:6800-1762777800-1762781400@www.aikenrotary.com SUMMARY:James Bennett\, Director of Palmetto Boys State DESCRIPTION:The American Legion’s Boys State program is a unique way for young men to learn about the American system of government and politics by participating in a mock governmental system. \nWe call it a “Laboratory of Government” because during the week each young man will have the opportunity to run for and be elected to mock offices ranging from city level (e.g. city council\, mayor) to state constitutional offices (e.g. lieutenant governor and governor). \nIt is an honor to be chosen as a delegate to Palmetto Boys State. More than 1\,000 rising seniors are nominated each year by their high school teachers and counselors to be delegates or “citizens” at Boys State. Those nominated are then interviewed and selected by the local American Legion Post. We consider the program to be as much leadership training as it is an opportunity to learn about and participate in government and politics. In fact\, many of our state’s political\, business\, and community leaders attended Boys State. \nWhile at Boys State\, citizens will be divided into “cities” named for state rivers which make up “counties” named for famous South Carolinians. Citizens are also divided into two political parties from which they will campaign and/or elect city\, county\, and state officers. By doing so\, citizens will learn about government and politics by participating in the process. They will have an opportunity to prepare speeches\, compose party platforms\, debate current issues\, and vote for elected offices. \nCities also compete for ribbons in athletics\, spirit\, college bowl trivia\, and other events. Citizens may also participate in several schools. Boys State has a media school which publishes a daily paper\, nightly news videos\, and conducts web updates regularly. There is a law school which teaches the fundamentals of SC Law. There is also a performing arts school which encompasses everything from a daily news cast to technical production. Several other schools include a criminal justice academy\, leadership school and the Boys State band/choir. \nBoys Staters also have the opportunity to hear from some of South Carolina’s top leaders. Speakers from years past include Senator Strom Thurmond\, Senator Ernest F. “Fritz” Hollings\, Governor and US Superintendent of Education\, the honorable Dick Riley\, former Governor and US Ambassador to the UN\, the honorable Nicki Haley\, current Governor\, the honorable Henry McMaster\, Congressman Lindsey Graham\, and Senator Tim Scott. \nThrough the unique and engaging experiences at Palmetto Boys State we believe boys become young men and the future leaders of our State and Country. \nCONTACT US URL:https://www.aikenrotary.com/event/james-bennett-director-of-palmetto-boys-state/ LOCATION:Newberry Hall\, 117 Newberry St SW\, Aiken\, SC\, 29801\, United States CATEGORIES:Guest Speaker END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20251117T123000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251117T133000 DTSTAMP:20260403T144738 CREATED:20251015T193252Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251015T194205Z UID:7016-1763382600-1763386200@www.aikenrotary.com SUMMARY:Rotary International\, Candy Hamilton DESCRIPTION:For more than a century\, we’ve bridged cultures and connected continents. We champion peace\, fight illiteracy and poverty\, help people get access to clean water and sanitation\, and fight disease. Our newest cause is to protect our planet and its resources. \nCONTACT US URL:https://www.aikenrotary.com/event/rotary-international-candy-hamilton/ LOCATION:Newberry Hall\, 117 Newberry St SW\, Aiken\, SC\, 29801\, United States CATEGORIES:Cub Business END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20251124T123000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251124T133000 DTSTAMP:20260403T144738 CREATED:20250710T173017Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250724T215121Z UID:6796-1763987400-1763991000@www.aikenrotary.com SUMMARY:Terry Lee\, Founder and Executive Director\, Overflow Foundation DESCRIPTION:Overflow Foundation exists in memory of Phillip Lee Jr\, to promote mental wellness in the community\, Pouring Hope into Life (#PHIL) by leading individuals to take next steps towards greater resilience\, independence\, and recovery. \nOverflow Foundation was founded in 2019 by a mother who was grieving the loss of her oldest son. Following a dual diagnosis of substance use disorder (SUD) and bipolar disorder (BPD)\, her son succumbed to severe depression and died by suicide on September 6\, 2018. Noting the rise in suicide rates by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) and the National Council for Behavioral Health\, Overflow Foundation desires to join the fight against suicide by infusing hope into the lives of individuals and families who have been affected by suicide\, mental illness\, and SUDs. \n  \nCONTACT US URL:https://www.aikenrotary.com/event/terry-lee-founder-and-executive-director-overflow-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:20251201T123000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251201T133000 DTSTAMP:20260403T144738 CREATED:20251002T212645Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251002T212751Z UID:6995-1764592200-1764595800@www.aikenrotary.com SUMMARY:Dr. Corey Murphy\, Superintendent of Aiken County Public School District DESCRIPTION:Dr. Corey Murphye’s mployment contract will become effective July 1\, 2024. His contract is for a three-year term of employment.Murphy has served as chief officer of operations and student services since 2020. He received his doctorate\, educational specialist\, Master’s of Education and Bachelor’s of Science in biology degrees from the University of South Carolina. \nMurphy’s experience also includes stints as chief of staff at Williamsburg-James City County Public Schools in Williamsburg\, Virginia\, five years as principal at Beaufort High School and five years as principal of Great Falls Middle/High School. He was an assistant principal at Camden High School as well as a classroom teacher for the South Carolina Department of Juvenile Justice and Eau Claire High School. \n  \nCONTACT US URL:https://www.aikenrotary.com/event/dr-corey-murphysuperintendent-of-aiken-county-public-school-district/ LOCATION:Newberry Hall\, 117 Newberry St SW\, Aiken\, SC\, 29801\, United States CATEGORIES:Guest Speaker END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR