The last meeting of July was held on the 29th at The Neches Room. The noon meeting was called to order by 2026-2027 club president Jay Wilson Jr. Joining Jay at the head table were Michael Campbell to provide an Invocation, Shannah Quinn leading in pledges to the U.S. and Texas flags, and Melissa Cornwell for introduction of guests. Also assisting to see that the meeting ran smoothly were the following volunteers: Jay Wilson Sr. at registration, Misty Fountain and Jacques Gagne working the ticket sales, Andrew Edwards receiving meal tickets, Jennifer Gregory serving as photographer, and John Lee assisting Mikayla with IT services.

Announcements:

*Rotarian of the Day, Caralee Thompson, gave a report on the Blizzard sale for the Children’s Miracle Network – about 45 blizzards were ordered for the meeting today, of which $1 will be forwarded as a donation to the CMN. The actual public Blizzard Day is tomorrow, July 30 – by which donations will continue to accumulate. Most area Dairy Queens will be participating tomorrow.

*Board of Directors report by secretary, Josh Davis, who announced several changes in membership, as well as 1 new member proposal.

*Steve Shoemaker, representing Service Projects, announced that they are asking for members to volunteer to serve on the committee for “community service projects”.

Brooke Morrow introduced today’s speaker: Payton Keith who is a Director at Harris, Deville & Associates of Baton Rouge, LA. Payton currently lives in Pt. Neches, is a graduate of Southern Methodist University and has over 15 years of experience in public affairs and state governance. Payton is also a member of the Greater Beaumont Chamber of Commerce.

Payton’s presentation was informative about the upcoming Golden Triangle Days in Austin in 2027 and a reflection on historical influences that shaped and benefitted our area of the state and therefore the entire state itself. Payton encouraged membership in the Greater Bmt. Chamber of Commerce.

The Golden Triangle Days involves the collaboration of our area’s Chambers who encourage public participation and generally has around 300 participants to demonstrate support and inform law makers about what is important and benefits our community. There will be a 2-part conference in February that will have break-out sessions and visits to offices of lawmakers. There are plans to have the Lamar Ambassadors present to assist in directing visitors.

Payton reminded the audience of the historical influences that several key Texans provided over the years. Such as Governor Hogg who was influential in the oil industry in TX, he prevented a monopoly being held by the Standard Oil Co. and together with some associates, began a company that became Texaco. Former Congressman Jack Brooks gave the impetus for the levees in the Pt. Arthur area that not only helped the drainage districts but provided protection for the ports as they were key to distributing jet fuel that was vital to our country’s National Defense programs. More recently, Dade Phelan supported southeast Texas and was instrumental for the current highway reconstruction projects occurring today.

Payton concluded his presentation by saying that Southeast Texas is very important for the entire state of Texas. That even the Midland area’s success was enhanced by what was learned and developed in our area. He quoted: “If you don’t tell your story, no one will!”

President Jay Wilson announced the club’s donation to Rotary International in the area of Community and Economic Development as a thank you to Payton Keith’s speaking today. After reciting the 4-way test, the meeting was adjourned.