May 3, 2005

NEXT MEETING, MAY 9… our speaker will be Mississippi State head football coach Sylvester Croom.

LAST MEETING, MAY 2… U.S. Senator Trent Lott gave us an update on what’s going on in Washington, and how it affects us. He began by saying that the most important items facing the Congress right now are continuing to win the war on terrorism both abroad and at home, and adopting a realistic budget. There are three big issues he is working on right now: First, getting transportation legislation passed that will help build a more complete infrastructure. Second, working toward a national energy policy that will help relieve our dependence on foreign energy sources by increasing clean and safe production in our country as well as adopting conservation measures. And third, working toward realistic immigration reform and adopting a sensible policy. The Senator also spoke of committee work he is involved in with Amtrak, pension reform, and Social Security. He reminded us that every year we delay a decision on Social Security adds another $600 million to the eventual cost. In Q&A, Senator Lott spoke of jobs in Mississippi and the “constitutional option” that may be needed to enable Senate approval of judicial appointments. Thanks to Bill Allison for arranging and introducing this program.

TENNIS GETTING CLOSE... our annual tennis tournament is right around the corner. It’s scheduled for Wednesday, May 18, at 3 pm at the River Hills Club. Sign up with Chairman Johnny Louis at Monday’s meeting. Or call him at 601 362-8877.

IT’S PHOTO TIME… believe it or not, our photo roster book is being prepared to go to press. One problem: a LOT of you have not had a photo taken. Problem two: a LOT OF THE REST OF YOU have a photo that’s at least ten years out of date. You can remedy either situation by making an appointment with Gib Ford, 601 353-9675, and dropping by his studio to have a photo made. The club pays for it. So do it!

PRESIDENT’S CORNER… For those of you who missed our Rotarfest last week, you missed a great time of food and fellowship. Chairman J.D. Fly and his Rotarfest Committee put on their usual outstanding event. Be sure to thank them. We will have another one in the fall. You may have missed a number of your regular Rotary buddies today. Thirteen of them, serving on the Mentor Scholarship Committee led by Chairman Joe Young, started their interview process today. They will continue for the next two weeks, and will conclude by selecting the 4 or 5 most outstanding scholars. The 2005 Mentor Scholars will be introduced to our club on June 20th, so make sure you put that date on your calendar. Thanks to each of you for making it possible to award these meaningful scholarships to these deserving students. Yours in Rotary, Danny