Rotary Roundup
The Weekly Newsletter of the Rotary Club of Jonesboro-University
Jonesboro, Arkansas – August 11, 2005
Prayer: Beverly Edens
Pledge: Rusty Clark
Paul Holmes introduced Congressman Marion Berry. Congressman Berry spoke about the highway bill that was passed in the last session. There was enough money left to build the overpass near Caraway Road. They also will have the funds to start the Interstate between here and 67.
When questioned on Iraq, Congressman Berry said he would not go back and discuss how we got there. It must be recognized by the world community as a world problem.
In Iran, the Congressman stated we do not have the military capacity to deal with another situation at this time. This greatly limits our options.
Mike Webb introduced Arkansas State University Head Football Coach Steve Roberts. Coach Roberts spoke to the club about the upcoming Indians football season.
Coach Roberts has been through three seasons here, entering his fourth. Three years ago, the team had the three “I will’s”. The fist was: I will be a good student in the classroom. Our GPA as a football team is the highest in the Sun Belt conference. We have the highest graduation rate of any Division I school in Arkansas and in the Sun Belt Conference.
I will project a positive image. Our young men are learning discipline. We are trying to get across true discipline. This is when you recognize how your actions affect those around you. Their actions affect more than just themselves. They are kids that are learning to be men.
I will prepare to win. We have not won enough football games over the last three years. Our young men have prepared to win. This is the most wins we have had in a three year period than we had in 1987-89.
Last season, 25 players played in their first college game in the first game of the season. This year, the players are more experienced coming back.
There are four home conference games. There are five games at Indian Stadium this year. Our starting quarterback and running backs are back this year. Our center is returning. Two tight ends have been injured, but the one remaining has playing experience. The receivers are young, but big and quick.
The entire defensive line is returning. Eight defensive linemen will rotate in and out. The secondary appears to be strong. We do not have a linebacker that has played in a college game. They will definitely cause some excitement one way or another.
Our punter and kicker are both returning on special teams.
The question of the Indian mascot was brought up, but Coach Roberts said that was not his decision. We don’t want to offend anyone, but we want to maintain tradition.
Good News
Josh Fletcher will be in Hawaii tomorrow.
Joe Stalling family reunion went well and he is happy to be back in town.
Announcements
Super Seniors
Jane Jamison will be heading up the super senior program this year. If you can sponsor a senior in the program, please see Jane.
District Rotary Foundation Golf Tournament
The club is sponsoring up to two teams to play in the upcoming District Golf Tournament. There will be a morning and afternoon tee time. The tournament will be held on August 19 at the Red Apple Inn in Heber Springs. The club is looking for players. Check with Mike Webb for the details.
Web Site
Leon Carlisle gave handouts to everyone on how to set up their entries on the directory on the web site. You must go to club member log-in on the left side of the screen. Log in with your first initial (of the name you go by) and last name. For password, it will be 12345. You will then need to go in and change it. Make sure to include your e-mail address and phone number. You can also add photos. If you don’t have a photo, we will take them in a later meeting.
Guests
Nate Herget, guest of James McDaniel
Dawna Hailey, guest of Sheila Harrison
Make-Ups
Jay Clevenger
Rusty Clark
Attendance: 41/65 or 63.08%
