June 7, 2006
It was anything but a slow boat to China when Purdue's Associate Professor of Political Science, Dr. Mark C. Tilton pictured above with President Robert Geyer, made a return visit to the Attica-Williamsport Rotary Club on Wednesday. Indeed, it was a lesson on the market and political powers of the steel industry, what it once was and what it has become. The audience was rapt during the presentation as descriptions of the industry was related by this expert on the far east and how, with the United States, European Union, China, and Japan their focus currently influence on the present steel market. Japan, with its steel makers welded into a single coordinated influence, is able to influence great changes in the market. The steel producers in the United States are no longer harmonized in direction and wield much control.
Cindy Mason, incoming president, reported on a matching grant proposal that would be submitted to Rotary International based on the theme "Leading the Way," with an application to begin replacing the bridges of Attica's Ravine Park. Present wooden crossing, often washed away during seasons of great rainfall would be replaced with permanent concrete fixtures improving the accessibility of the trail from the suburb of Elmdale to Short Street at the Cottrell Village. Judy Bush moved the submission of the $2000 matching grant. The proposal was approved by the membership.
Notes from the Warren County teachers who were presented with educator assistance grants from the local club were received and acknowledged.
The Changeover meeting is scheduled for 15 June at the Beef House with dinner being served at 6:00. The gathering hour begins at 5:30. There will be no Wednesday morning meeting that day.
It was Robert Geyer's last meeting as president, and his leadership will be acknowledged during activities at the changeover meeting Wednesday. His guidance is acknowledged and greatly appreciated. It would be difficult if not impossible to find a club that could equal his enthusiasm and zest for the goals and direction of Rotary and the sincere manner in which he conducted his office.
Harold Long