Rotary Club Of Aiken

William Tucker, Wills and Trusts
2024-09-30 12:30 - 13:30 (America/New_York) | Newberry Hall, 117 Newberry St SW, Aiken, SC, 29801, United States
While Wills and Trusts do have a lot of overlap, there are also several differences between the two. Ultimately, both are ways to say who will receive your assets. They just do it in different ways, and each has its own advantages and disadvantages.
One big difference between the two is in how and when they take effect. Wills don’t go into effect until you pass away, whereas a Trust is effective immediately upon signing and funding it.
It may be easier to think of a Will as a “simple” document. Wills allow you to:
Name guardians for kids and pets
Designate where your assets go
Specify final arrangements
While it is an easier process, the simplicity of a Will does come with some drawbacks. For example, Wills offer somewhat limited control over the distribution of assets. They also most likely have to go through some sort of probate process after you pass away.
A Trust is a bit more complicated, but can provide some great benefits. Trusts:
Offer greater control over when and how your assets are distributed
Apply to any assets you hold inside the Trust
Come in many different forms and types
Keep in mind that after you create a Trust, you also need to fund it by transferring assets to it, making the Trust the owner. This does make Trusts a little more complex to set up, but note that Trusts have one major benefit over Wills. They’re often used to minimize or avoid probate entirely, which is a huge plus for some people. This alone could more than justify the additional complexity of setting up a Trust.
Bill joined Hull Barrett in 1980 and is a senior partner in the Aiken office of the firm. He practices in the areas of estate planning, probate, real estate, and business/corporate law and has extensive experience on wealth transfer issues for individuals and owners of closely held businesses, the administration of decedents’ estates, as well as residential and commercial real estate transactions and small business transfers.
CONTACT US

Terry Lee, Founder and Executive Director of Overflow Foundation
2024-10-07 12:30 - 13:30
The mission of Overflow Foundation is to Pour Hope Into Life by promoting mental health awareness and suicide prevention, as well as providing mental health education.
Our Story
Overflow 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.
CONTACT US

Dr. Carl Henson, CMO & CSO of Chief Outsiders
2024-10-14 12:30 - 13:30
Dr. Carl Henson will give a brief overview of Artificial intelligence (AI) and how it has shifted the paradigm by creating new avenues for growth across all industries and businesses.ˆ
CONTACT US

Bill Reynolds, Aiken County Capital Project Sales Tax V
2024-10-21 12:30 - 13:30
If voters in Aiken County approve Capital Project Sales Tax V in November, it would generate more than $260 million that could be used to pave dirt roads, construct new facilities and more.
County Council’s ad hoc study committee received a report from county staff about the projected revenue during a meeting Tuesday at the Aiken County Government Center.
The total amount was based on population figures and point of sale data from the S.C. Department of Revenue, the county’s deputy administrator and chief financial officer, Lynn Strom, told the committee.
County staff used the same data to determine how the money would be divided among the county and its 10 municipalities.
Aiken County Council considers selling land in Sage Mill Industrial Park
The county would receive the biggest chunk of the proceeds, $127.6 million.
Aiken’s share would be $79.7 million
North Augusta would receive $48.6 million.
Burnettown and New Ellenton would get $2.4 million and $2.03 million, respectively.
Wagener would receive $1.6 million, and Jackson’s share would be $1.2 million.
Perry and Salley would get $256,000 and $271,000, respectively.
Windsor’s share would be $206,000.
Monetta would receive $190,000.
County staff wanted to make sure that all the municipalities would receive at least 15 percent more from Capital Project Sales Tax V than they did from Capital Project Sales Tax IV, based on projections.
CONTACT US

Wade Cleveland - Rotary Exchange Program
2024-10-28 12:30 - 13:30
Youth Exchange is a study-abroad opportunity for young people who spend anywhere from a few weeks to a full year as an international student hosted by local Rotary clubs.
Are you interested in learning a new language or meeting new people? Rotary Youth Exchange is the opportunity of a lifetime for the more than 8,000 students who participate each year. By sharing your own culture and embracing a new one, you help foster global understanding—and learn a great deal about yourself and your home country in the process.
What is a Rotary Youth Exchange?
Is an exchange right for me?
Exchanges are for people ages 15–19 who:
Have demonstrated leadership in their school and community
Are flexible and willing to try new things
Are open to cultural differences
Can serve as an ambassador for their own country
How much does it cost?
Costs vary from country to country. Local Rotary clubs generously host students and provide room and board with a host family and a small monthly stipend. Participants are generally responsible for:
Round-trip airfare
Insurance
Travel documents (such as passports and visas)
Spending money, additional travel, and tour fees
How can I apply?
Learn more about the types of programs offered, and specific application process required. Because the selection and orientation process can be lengthy, we suggest you apply 6–12 months before you plan to leave.
Can I host an exchange student?
Hosting an exchange student can be an incredibly rewarding experience for your family, providing an international experience without leaving home. Host families provide room and board and share their lives with exchange students, involving them in family, community, and cultural activities.
Interested in learning more about being a host family?
CONTACT US

Jimmy Foley, Veteran's Day Panel
2024-11-04 12:30 - 13:30
First known as Armistice Day, President Woodrow Wilson set aside the day of November 11 (the first anniversary of the signing of the armistice ending World War I) to recognize and thank our American soldiers for their service. This day was declared a National Holiday in 1938, and in 1954 the name was changed to Veterans Day to honor all American Veterans.
“The soldier above all others prays for peace, for it is the soldier who must suffer and bear the deepest wounds and scars of war.” —Douglas MacArthur
CONTACT US

Veteran's Day - NO MEETING
2024-11-11 12:30 - 13:30
CONTACT US

Avery Spears-Mahoney, Exec. Director of North Augusta Forward
2024-11-18 12:30 - 13:30
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.
Through this mission, our vision is for North Augusta to become the “community of choice” to live, work and play within the River Region.
CONTACT US

Wine Industry/Cline Family Vineyards
2024-11-25 12:30 - 13:30
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.
The 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.
CONTACT US

S.C. State Senator, Tom Young, with a Legislative Update
2024-12-02 12:30 - 13:30
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.
In 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.
In 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.
Born 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.
Tom 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.
Tom 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.
CONTACT US

Rysheeka Bush. District Governor for Rotary District 7750 for the 2024-25 term
2024-12-09 12:30 - 13:30
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.
Her 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.
Beyond 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.
Driven 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.
Rysheeka serves on various volunteer boards in the Aiken area.
CONTACT US

Club Christmas Party
2024-12-16 12:30 - 13:30

Club Christmas Holiday - NO MEETING
2024-12-23 12:30 - 13:30

New Year's Eve- NO MEETING
2024-12-30 12:30 - 13:30

Club Assembly
2025-01-06 12:30 - 13:30
Club Assembly will be a brief overview of Rotary, updates on our progress toward annual goals, accomplishments, and upcoming projects and events. Club Assembly will be a brief overview of Rotary, updates on our progress toward annual goals, accomplishments, and upcoming projects and events.
CONTACT US

Matt Merrifield, Chief Executive Officer of Aiken Regional
2025-01-13 12:30 - 13:30
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.”
In 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.
Merrifield 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.
Merrifield 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.
“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.”
CONTACT US

MLK Day - NO MEETING
2025-01-20 12:30 - 13:30
“If we are to have peace on earth, our loyalties must become ecumenical rather than sectional. Our loyalties must transcend our race, our tribe, our class, and our nation; and this means we must develop a world perspective.”
Christmas sermon, Atlanta, Georgia, 1967.
CONTACT US

Rotarian Jim Marra, Citizens for Nuclear Technology Awareness (CNTA) Executive Director
2025-01-27 12:30 - 13:30
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.”
CONTACT US

Vice Admiral Chuck Munns and USCA Associate Professor of History Dr. Sarah King discuss 'US Security Implications of Putin's Invasion of Ukraine'
2025-02-03 12:30 - 13:30
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.
On 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.
“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.
Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III shakes hands with the Ukrainian president.
“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.”
Spotlight: Support for Ukraine
Russia’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.
“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.”
Spotlight: NATO
Today, 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.
Officials sit around a large U-shaped table.
“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.”
The 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.
“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.”
Since 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.
Cargo sits in the rear of an aircraft.
Tactical vehicles lined in rows.
Presidential 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.
Included 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.
It’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.
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.”
Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III
The 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.
Also 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.
Going 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.
“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.”
CONTACT US

Rotarian Dick Rudisil. to discuss Retail Food Industry
2025-02-10 12:30 - 13:30
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.
How big is the U.S. food retail industry?
The 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 .
CONTACT US

Presidents' Day - NO MEETING
2025-02-17 12:30 - 13:30
“In the end, it’s not the years in your life that count. It’s the life in your years.”
– Abraham Lincoln
CONTACT US

Ambria Abney, The Center for African American History, Art and Culture
2025-02-24 12:30 - 13:30
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.
CONTACT US

Rotarian Paul Durban. to discuss Aiken and the Airplane
2025-03-03 12:30 - 13:30
MARCH 9, 1911
The 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.
From 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.
With 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.
Coffyn, 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.
Always looking ahead, he developed an interest in helicopters late in life. He died in California in 1960.
CONTACT US

Julie Keating, The Colin James Barth Outreach
2025-03-10 12:30 - 13:30
The CJB Outreach’s mission is to provide immediate and impactful assistance to women-led households.
We 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.
CONTACT US

Dr. Bobby Donaldson, USC Center for Civil Rights History and Research
2025-03-17 12:30 - 13:30
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.
CONTACT US

Tenor Nicklaus Porter of Moon River Opera’s
2025-03-24 12:30 - 13:30
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.
CONTACT US

Lyddie Hansen, Linda Strojan Discuss the Aiken Rotary Scholarship Program
2025-03-31 12:30 - 13:30
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.
This 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.
CONTACT US

Vice Admiral Chuck Munns, who will be discussing Quantum Science: Risk and Opportunity
2025-04-07 12:30 - 13:30
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.
Here’s a more detailed look at the risks and opportunities:
Opportunities:
Revolutionizing Industries:
Quantum computing could revolutionize industries like medicine, materials science, and finance by enabling faster and more accurate simulations and calculations.
New Algorithms and Technologies:
Quantum science could lead to the development of new algorithms and technologies that are impossible with current classical computing.
Quantum Key Distribution (QKD):
Quantum technologies can be used for secure communication through QKD, which is highly secure and difficult to intercept.
Quantum Sensors:
Quantum sensors can be used for a variety of applications, including medical imaging, environmental monitoring, and navigation.
Quantum Computing as a Service:
Quantum computing as a service is gaining traction, allowing businesses to access quantum computing capabilities without the need for specialized infrastructure.
Risks:
Cybersecurity Threats:
Quantum computers could potentially break current encryption algorithms, exposing sensitive data to cyberattacks.
“Harvest Now, Decrypt Later” Attacks:
Cybercriminals could store encrypted data now, waiting for quantum computers to become powerful enough to decrypt it later.
Vulnerability of Existing Systems:
Many current systems rely on encryption that could be vulnerable to quantum attacks, requiring organizations to develop quantum-resistant solutions.
Ethical Concerns:
The development and deployment of quantum technologies raise ethical concerns, such as the potential for misuse and the need for responsible innovation.
Complexity and Cost:
Quantum technologies are complex and expensive, requiring significant investment and expertise.
Regulatory Uncertainty:
The regulatory landscape for quantum technologies is still evolving, creating uncertainty for businesses and researchers.
Quantum Supremacy Uncertainty:
The timeline for achieving “quantum supremacy” (when quantum computers outperform classical computers) is uncertain, making it difficult for organizations to plan their quantum strategies.
Skill Gaps:
There is a shortage of skilled workers in the field of quantum science and technology, which could hinder the development and deployment of these technologies.
CONTACT US

Will Williams, President & CEO of The Western SC Economic Development Partnership on Economic Development Process, Developments and Impact
2025-04-14 12:30 - 13:30
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.
Since 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.
Williams 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.
Will Williams (in green) being recognized as South Carolina’s 2017 Local Developer of the Year at SCEDA’s Annual Conference.
A 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.
While 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.
CONTACT US

Tim Hardee, President of the South Carolina Technical College System
2025-04-21 12:30 - 13:30
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.
With 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.
Last year, Governor McMaster invested $12 million in South Carolina’s technical college system to train residents in the Palmetto State for high-demand jobs.
After 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.
“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.”
The Palmetto State is home to 16 technical colleges including Midlands Technical College which currently has around 9,000 students enrolled.
“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.”
To 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.
“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.”
Coupled 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.
“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.”
One 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.
“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.”

CONTACT US
