Jeff Mcghee was in charge of the program on November 1, 2011. He introduced Joe Elton of the City of McRae. Joe gave an overview of McRae Rotary's website that he had just completed. Mr. Abney also discussed upcoming events.

Dr. Howard Abney, President of Rotary Club, announced that the club had been awarded a District Simplified Grant.  Debbie Bullard introduced Craig Wilson who has been in the timber industry all his life.  He spoke on a company he owns located in Lumber City.  His company is located on 53 acres and produces shavings (horse bedding). It is a seasonal business and primarily has a market in foreign countries.  Recently he added a fuel pellet facility.  A mill is being installed and this will add thirty new jobs, and increase the production of shavings.   They currently supply 140,000 metric tons of pellets per year. He hopes in the net two to three years to have a full blown wood facility which will bring about an impact on the price of timber.

(Article by Rotarian June Bradfield)

Meeting: September 27, 2011

Laurie Tompson from the Technical College was presented a scholarship, and plans were made to assist State members of the Visitors Center on behalf of the Midland Region.  Mr. George Smith , former warden of several State Prisons and current Director of the Milan YDC was the speaker.  He is delighted with the approximately 150 jobs that the facility provides and appreciates the challenge he faces.  It is a transition facility, and he hopes to change lives.