http://www.rotaryclubofjacksonms.org/

Rotary Club of Jackson, Mississippi, Jackson, MS (2026)

09/01/2026

Rotary Club of Jackson’s September 2026 Newsletter.

The newsletter contains President Lee Bush’s message, information about the Rotary Club of Jackson’s Member meetings, and a photo recap of August meetings.

09/01/2026

August 31, 2026 Rotary Program – Dr. Stuart Rockoff, Executive Director, Mississippi Humanities Council

His topic is “The Humanities are for Everyone.”
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Rotary President Lee Bush welcomed Rotarians and guests.
THE INVOCATION – delivered by President Wilfred Beal.
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PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – led by Dean Jim Rosenblatt.
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FOUR-WAY TEST – President Lee Bush
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VISITING ROTARIANS AND GUESTS – introduced by Michael Van Velkinburgh

LeAnne Brewer’s Guest - Jennifer Welch, Owner, Verica Real Estate

Dean Jim Rosenblatt’s Guest - Susan Rockoff (Wife of Stuart Rockoff)

Sam Taylor’s Guests:
• Steven Randolph, Analyst, Wealthview Capital
• Tyson Rutland, Analyst, Wealthview Capital
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HEAD TABLE:

PRESIDENT LEE BUSH – President and CEO of National Collection Systems

PRESIDENT NOMINEE SHARON MOMAN – Owner/Broker, Moman Realty

HONORARY HOST – Wyatt Dunn, Attorney, Wyatt Dunn Ltd LLC

SPEAKER – Dr. Stuart Rockoff, Executive Director, Mississippi Humanities Council
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RECAP OF ROTARY ZONES 30 & 31 INSTITUTE – President Lee
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CONGRATULATIONS TO ROTARIAN KENNY WINDHAM – Who received the Mississippi Association of Broadcasters’ Cornerstone Award at the 2026 Conference, August 25-26. This award recognizes an individual whose extraordinary leadership, dedication, and selfless service provided strength and stability to MAB during a critical time, helping ensure its continued success for years to come.
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AUGUST MEMBERS BIRTHDAYS

Samuel Taylor August 31
Sarah Dickinson August 31
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SEPTEMBER MEMBERSHIP ANNIVERSARIES

Connor Dyess 9/15/2025 1 Year
Billy Long 9/20/2023 3 Years
Naomi Jackson 9/20/2023 3 Years
Beau Bettiga 9/20/2023 3 Years
Wilfred Beal 9/08/2022 3 Years
Rob Salley 9/23/2015 11 Years
David Allen 9/24/2012 14 Years
Harvey Little 9/29/2008 18 Years
Jill Beneke 9/29/2003 23 Years
Jim Rosenblatt 9/09/2003 23 Years
Ray Lenow 9/01/1995 31 Years
Michael Larsen 9/02/1995 31 Years
Sister Dorothea 9/26/1994 32 Years
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SEPTEMBER WEDDING ANNIVERSARIES

Keith and Glenda Ferguson September 3 38 Years
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NEXT WEEK’s MEETING - Monday, September 7, NO MEETING in observance of LABOR DAY

Monday, September 14, we will welcome District 6820 Governor Jimmy Parker and introduce our Committee Chairs, who will provide a brief overview of their committees and introduce their members.
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Sharon Moman introduced our speaker, Dr. Stuart Rockoff.
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Dr. Stuart Rockoff, Executive Director, Mississippi Humanities Council

Stuart was born in Ft. Worth and raised in Houston, Texas. He received his Ph.D. in US history from the University of Texas at Austin. In November 2013, he became the third executive director of the Mississippi Humanities Council (MHC), established in 1972.

Under his leadership, the MHC develops and supports a wide range of public humanities programs that explore Mississippi’s rich history and culture. Rockoff served on the scholarly review board for both the Museum of Mississippi History and the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum. He currently serves on the board of the Mississippi Book Festival and the state’s National Register of Historic Places Review Board.

Stuart lives in Jackson with his wife Susan.

08/25/2026

August 24, 2026

Rotary Program – Billy Taylor, Executive Director, Mississippi Department of Rehabilitation Services

His topic was “Overview of the Mississippi Department of Rehabilitation Services.”
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Rotary President Lee Bush welcomed Rotarians and guests.
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THE INVOCATION – delivered by President Nominee Sharon Moman.
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PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – led by Dean Jim Rosenblatt.
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FOUR-WAY TEST – President Lee Bush
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VISITING ROTARIANS AND GUESTS – introduced by Michael Van Velkinburgh

Selena Selena Swartzfager’s Guests
• Assma Ali, Law Offices of Ali & Associates, P.A.
• Kayla Soukup, Financial Advisor, Raymond James

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HEAD TABLE:

PRESIDENT LEE BUSH – President and CEO of National Collection Systems

PRESIDENT–ELECT SETH DICKINSON – Attorney, Taggart Law Group, PLLC.

HONORARY HOST – Donovan Beitel, Executive Director, Mississippi Industries for the Blind

SPEAKER – Billy Taylor, Executive Director, Mississippi Department of Rehabilitation Services
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AUGUST MEMBER BIRTHDAYS

Tina Clay Today, August 24
Jack Spradling Today, August 24
Michael Van Velkinburgh Wednesday, August 26
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AUGUST WEDDING ANNIVERSARIES

Rob and Sheri Salley Wednesday August 26 48 Years
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Next Week’s Program – Monday, August 31, Dr. Stuart Rockoff, Executive Director, Mississippi Humanities Council
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President-Elect Seth Dickinson introduced our speaker, Billy Taylor.
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Billy Taylor, Executive Director, Mississippi Department of Rehabilitation Services

Billy Taylor became Executive Director of the Mississippi Department of Rehabilitation Services on May 1, 2024. Preceding this role, he served as Chief of Staff since 2015. Prior to joining MDRS, he served as a Special Assistant Attorney General with Mississippi’s Attorney General’s Office, where he represented multiple state agencies.

Taylor has been instrumental in advancing the ABLE Act (Achieving a Better Life Experience), which created ABLE Savings Accounts in Mississippi. These accounts, administered by MDRS, opened in June 2019 and allow individuals with disabilities to save for qualified expenses without affecting Supplemental Security Income benefits.

Billy brings extensive legal, administrative, and disability services experience to his role as Executive Director, with a strong track record of implementing policy, particularly in advancing financial inclusion for people with disabilities through the ABLE program.

Billy holds a bachelor’s degree from Mississippi State University and is a graduate of Mississippi College School of Law and the University of Alabama School of Law with an LLM in Taxation. He has also completed all the necessary coursework for his Master of Education in Dyslexia Therapy from Mississippi College.

Billy is a resident of Madison. He and his wife, Michelle, have three children: Wright (16), Ella Bailey (13), and Denton (12).

08/18/2026

August 17, 2026

Rotary Program – Shannon Warnock, Director of Constituent & Legislative Affairs | MS Dept. of Child Protective Services

Her topic was “The Storybook Project Sponsored by the Chapel of the Cross.”
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Rotary President Lee Bush welcomed Rotarians and guests.
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THE INVOCATION – delivered by Wilfred Beal.
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PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – led by Ted Jackson.
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FOUR-WAY TEST – President Lee Bush
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VISITING ROTARIANS AND GUESTS – introduced by Michael Van Velkinburgh

Seth Dickinson’s Guest
• Phillips Strickland, Attorney, Taggart Law Group, PLLC

Visiting Rotarian
• Robert Whitley – North Jackson Rotary Club
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HEAD TABLE:

PRESIDENT LEE BUSH – President and CEO of National Collection Systems

PRESIDENT–ELECT SETH DICKINSON – Attorney, Taggart Law Group, PLLC.

HONORARY HOST – Dr. Billy Long – (Retired) GI Associates

SPEAKER – Shannon Warnock, Director of Constituent & Legislative Affairs | MS Dept. of Child Protective Services
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AUGUST MEMBER BIRTHDAYS

Hank Holman August 17
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AUGUST WEDDING ANNIVERSARIES

Selena and Glenn Swartzfager August 17 35 Years
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Next Week’s Program – Monday, August 24, Billy Taylor, Executive Director, Mississippi Department of Rehabilitation Services
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President-Elect Seth Dickinson introduced our speaker, Shannon Warnock.
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Shannon Warnock, Director of Constituent & Legislative Affairs | MS Dept. of Child Protective Services

Shannon Warnock is a public affairs professional in the Mississippi Department of Child Protective Services (MDCPS), serving in a leadership role focused on constituent and legislative engagement.

Shannon is a dedicated leader, development consultant, and longtime advocate for Mississippi communities. With more than 30 years of experience in political and nonprofit fundraising, constituent services, event planning, community relations, and campaign strategy, Shannon has built a career centered on serving others and strengthening the organizations and communities she represents.

A proud graduate of Mississippi College School of Law and Mississippi State University, Shannon is the owner of StrongBox Strategies and has served as finance director for several successful campaigns, including those of Mississippi Supreme Court Justices Jenifer Branning and Kenny Griffis. She presently advises candidates for Chancery and Circuit Courts.

Shannon has also devoted years to public service, serving in the administrations of Governors Kirk Fordice and Haley Barbour, including two terms as Chairman of the Mississippi State Parole Board. Most recently, she served as an executive with the Mississippi Department of Child Protective Services, where she led communications and legislative efforts and helped advance important Youth Court legislation.

Her commitment to service extends well beyond her professional career. Shannon is an active volunteer and board member with the Mississippi Symphony Orchestra, St. Andrew’s Episcopal School, and the Mississippi Humanities Council. She is an active member at Chapel of the Cross in Madison.

But, above all, Shannon is most proud of her family. She and her husband, Dr. James Warnock, have been married for 37 years and are the parents of three grown children—a nurse, a soldier, and a teacher—all of whom have chosen lives of service to others.

Storybook Project at The Chapel of the Cross
The Storybook Project is a ministry of The Chapel of the Cross that connects incarcerated parents with their children through the gift of reading. It is part of the church’s Servant Ministry outreach, which supports programs for those outside the Chapel family.

Purpose and Impact
The project’s mission is to strengthen the bond between incarcerated parents and their children by providing books and recorded readings. Studies show that maintaining this connection helps children integrate successfully into their families after a parent’s release. For incarcerated mothers, the project offers a way to share love, hope, and the joy of reading, even while separated from their children.

How It Works
1. Volunteer Involvement – Trained volunteers bring children’s books to the prison. Mothers select a book at their child’s appropriate reading level.

2. Recording – A volunteer sits with the mother to record her reading the book aloud.

3. Distribution – The recording is burned onto a CD, along with the book, and sent to the child at no cost to the family.

This process not only fosters emotional connection but also introduces children to the world of reading, which can have lasting educational benefits.

Volunteer Opportunities
The Chapel of the Cross invites volunteers to participate in the Storybook Project. This can include:
• Visiting correctional facilities to assist with book selection and recording.
• Coordinating logistics and distribution.
• Supporting the ministry through prayer and financial contributions.

Why It Matters
The Storybook Project is more than a book exchange — it’s a symbol of love, forgiveness, and hope. As one volunteer put it, “When you see God’s work there, if you don’t walk away with a lump in your throat and a tear in your eye, you’re not human.” It’s a tangible way to show incarcerated parents that they are still loved and valued.

08/12/2026

August 10, 2026

Rotary Program – Rotarian Gerard Gibert – Host of MidDays with Gerard Gibert at SuperTalk Mississippi

His topic is “An Overview of AI and the Possible Impact of Data Centers in Mississippi.”
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Rotary President Lee Bush welcomed Rotarians and guests.
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THE INVOCATION – delivered by Dr. David Raddin.
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PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – led by Michael Van Velkinburgh.
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FOUR-WAY TEST – President Lee Bush
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VISITING ROTARIANS AND GUESTS – introduced by Michael Van Velkinburgh

George Gammon’s Guest
🔹Jim Walker, Retired MDWE, Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks

Selena Swartzfager’s Guest
🔹Kayla Soukop, Financial Advisor, Raymond James

Gerard Gibert’s Guest
🔹Tommy Johnson, CEO, Ravenwood Financial
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HEAD TABLE:

🔹PRESIDENT LEE BUSH – President and CEO of National Collection Systems
🔹PRESIDENT–ELECT SETH DICKINSON – Attorney, Taggart Law Group, PLLC.
🔹HONORARY HOST – ASHBY FOOTE, Ward 1, City of Jackson Council Member
🔹SPEAKER – Rotarian Gerard Gibert – Host of MidDays with Gerard Gibert at SuperTalk Mississippi
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AUGUST MEMBER BIRTHDAYS

Selena Swartzfager Today, August 10
Michael Gater Tuesday, August 11
Alexis Hicks Tuesday, August 11
Rosa Beckett Tuesday, August 11
Meade Mitchell Friday, August 14
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AUGUST WEDDING ANNIVERSARIES

🔸Mark and Debbie Saxon Wednesday, August 12 48 Years
🔸Tommy and Mary Scott Shepherd Friday, August 14 44 Years
🔸Walter and Catherine Becker Saturday, August 15 39 Years
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Next Week’s Program – Monday, August 17, Shannon Warnock

Her topic is “The Storybook Project Sponsored by the Chapel of the Cross.”
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President-Elect Seth Dickinson introduced our speaker, Gerard Gibert.
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Gerard Gibert – Host of MidDays with Gerard Gibert at SuperTalk Mississippi

Gerard Gibert co-founded Venture Technologies, a Technology Solutions and Cloud Services Provider in Ridgeland, MS, in 1986. He served as CEO of Venture from inception until its sale in January 2019 to ConvergeOne, a $2 billion technology solutions provider based in Minneapolis, MN.

A regular speaker to civic, academic, and political audiences, Gerard earned a bachelor’s in business administration with a major in Accounting from the University of Mississippi. From 1980-1985, he worked as a senior consultant in the Management Information Consulting Division of Arthur Andersen & Co. This business unit evolved into Accenture. This global professional services firm provides digital, cloud, and cybersecurity services and consulting.

Prior to Venture’s sale to ConvergeOne, Gerard engineered Venture’s acquisition of five companies between 2014 and 2018, increasing annual revenues to $225 million with a team of over 300 across 11 states. The Mississippi Business Journal listed Venture as the 30th largest private business in Mississippi at the time of sale.

Gerard hosts MidDays with Gerard Gibert, which airs on SuperTalk Mississippi each weekday, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Broadcast over the air statewide, MidDays features interviews with state and federal elected officials as well as civic leaders, business executives, and policy advocates from across Mississippi. Each show includes Gerard’s insightful - often controversial - commentary on political, economic, and cultural issues shaping the state and nation.

Gerard is married to his wife of 45 years, the former Julie Gill of Biloxi, MS. They have two children – Alex – the Press Secretary for the Mississippi Department of Public Safety, and Nick – an account executive with Indivior Pharmaceutical.

An instrument-rated private pilot, Gerard enjoys golf, coaching youth sports, flying, writing, speaking, broadcasting, and gardening. He and his family attend St. Francis of Assisi Church in Madison, Mississippi. Gerard is a member of the Rotary Club of Jackson, Mississippi.

Gerard has earned numerous professional honors and distinctions. Here are a few:

▪️The Mississippi Business Journal named him as a Top 40 Under 40, a Top CEO, and a Top 21 in Tech.

▪️The Magnolia Tribune recognized Mr. Gibert as one of the 50 Most Influential Leaders in Mississippi.

▪️In 2025, Gerard was named to the distinguished Marquis Who’s Who in America.

▪️His business story was featured in the regional edition of Forbes Magazine.

▪️He was a Mississippi Delegate to the 2024 Republican National Convention, where he appeared as a guest contributor on the Newsmax television network. He continues to appear regularly on Newsmax as a political analyst.

▪️In April 2025, the White House held a Radio Row Event to mark President Trump’s first 100 days. Gerard was one of 9 talk show hosts in the nation selected by the White House Media Affairs Director to host their show from the White House Complex.

▪️Gerard serves as a director on seven boards, including the Mississippi Lottery Corporation, Innovate Mississippi, and Empower Mississippi. He currently chairs the Madison County Economic Development Authority, where he was instrumental in securing Amazon Web Services’ $20 billion hyperscale data center project in Mississippi, the largest single capital investment in state history.

▪️In 2025, Mississippi’s legislative leadership appointed Gerard to serve on the State’s first Artificial Intelligence Regulatory Task Force.

▪️Also in late 2025, Gerard was nominated to serve on the National Artificial Intelligence Advisory Committee (NAIAC), part of the U.S. Department of Commerce, for the purpose of providing guidance to the President on AI standards and policies. The White House Liaison Office has approved the nomination, and it is pending.

▪️Served as a judge in the 2026 Miss Mississippi Teen Pageant.

▪️Musician - drummer in The House Band, along with 6 members of the Mississippi House of Representatives.

08/05/2026

August 3, 2026 Rotary Program – Mike McCormick, President, Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation

His topic is “MFBF Over 100 Years.”
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Rotary President Lee Bush welcomed Rotarians and guests.
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THE INVOCATION – delivered by Wilfred Beal.
________________________________________

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – led by Dean Jim Rosenblatt
________________________________________

FOUR-WAY TEST – President Lee Bush
________________________________________

VISITING ROTARIANS AND GUESTS – introduced by Michael Van Velkinburgh

Lee Bush’s Guest
• Leah Bush, his daughter

Sam Taylor’s Guest
• Austin Hurt, Director of Client Services, Wealthview Capital

Umesh Sanjanwala, State Director, U.S. Senator Hyde-Smith
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Past President Tom Johnson told “Lighten Up” jokes.
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HEAD TABLE:

PRESIDENT LEE BUSH – President and CEO of National Collection Systems

SARAH DICKINSON – Senior Executive Assistant, Mississippi Farm Bureau Casualty Insurance

HONORARY HOST – TARA CLARK, Associate Vice President | State Government Affairs for Molina Healthcare

SPEAKER – Mike McCormick, President, Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation
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Thank you to Melanie Henry for stepping in while Becky Redd, our executive secretary, is recovering from surgery.

Thank you to Harvey Little for helping while Rob Salley, our Sergeant-at-Arms, is out of town.
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Thank you to President-elect Seth Dickinson for completing and submitting two district grant applications for approval: Excellence in Education and Coats for Kids.
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JULY MEMBER BIRTHDAYS

LeAnne Brewer Saturday, August 8
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JULY MEMBER ANNIVERSARIES

Steve Cook 8/15/2022 4 Years
Deborah Wright 8/15/2022 4 Years
Philip Blaylock 8/19/2020 6 Years
Selena Swartzfager 8/24/2015 11 Years
Tina Clay 8/3/2015 11 Years
LeAnne Brewer 8/1/2005 21 Years
Hank Holman 8/1/1992 34 Years
Haden Hughes 8/1/1976 50 Years
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Next Week’s Program – Monday, August 10, Gerard Gibert – Host of MidDays with Gerard Gibert at SuperTalk Mississippi

His topic is “An Overview of AI and the Possible Impact of Data Centers in Mississippi.”
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President-Elect Sarah Dickinson introduced our speaker, Mike McCormick.
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Mike McCormick, President, Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation

Mike McCormick serves as President of the Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation, the state’s largest general farm organization representing more than 175,000 member-families across all eighty-two counties. Under his leadership, the organization has experienced significant growth and expanded its influence on public policy, engaging proactively with leaders at every level of government to advocate for the interest of farmers, ranchers, and rural communities.

A respected voice in Mississippi’s agricultural community, McCormick has strengthened Farm Bureau’s presence at the State Capitol by staying consistently engaged, informed, and effective. He is recognized for his ability to collaborate with elected officials, industry partners, and citizens across diverse sectors, while advancing policies that support a strong and sustainable agricultural economy.

McCormick’s leadership extends nationally and internationally through his service on numerous boards. His roles include Southern Farm Bureau Life Insurance Company, Southern Farm Bureau Casualty Insurance Company (Chair), American Agricultural Insurance Company, Farm Bureau Bank, Mississippi State University College of Veterinary Medicine Dean’s Advisory Council, Chicago Mercantile Exchange Agricultural Markets Advisory Council, Alcorn State University Foundation, and Mississippi 4-H Foundation. He also serves on key statewide task forces and committees, including the Federal Communications Commission Precision Ag Task Force and the Mississippi Secretary of State’s Conservation Task Force. In addition, he serves as Chair of the Harvest Permit Transportation Stewardship Council and the Emergency Road and Bridge Fund Committee, while remaining actively involved with the American Farm Bureau Federation Board of Directors, where he chairs the Finance Committee. McCormick was appointed by U. S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack to the Cattlemen’s Beef Promotion and Research Board, where he served multiple terms on the Executive Committee.

Throughout his career, McCormick has been honored with numerous awards, including an Honorary State FFA Degree, Mississippi State University College of Agriculture and Life Sciences Dean’s Award, College of Veterinary Medicine President’s Pegasus Award, Alcorn State University Braves Pioneer Award, Mississippi Association of Agricultural Agents Presidential Award, FFA Distinguished Service Award and the Mississippi State University Extension Director’s Award. He was recognized in 2021 as one of Mississippi’s Top CEOs and named one of Mississippi’s Top 50 most Impactful Leaders in 2017, 2020, and again in 2025.

With a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from the University of Southern Mississippi (1984), McCormick is known as a dedicated leader, servant, and businessman who is widely respected for his integrity, expertise, and unwavering commitment to advancing agriculture in Mississippi and beyond.

07/30/2026

July 27, 2026

Rotary Program – Russ Latino, Founder and CEO, Magnolia Tribune.

His topic is “Roundtable with Russ.”
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Rotary President Lee Bush welcomed Rotarians and guests.
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THE INVOCATION – delivered by David Raddin.
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PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – led by Dean Jim Rosenblatt
________________________________________

FOUR-WAY TEST – President Lee Bush
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VISITING ROTARIANS AND GUESTS – introduced by Thomas Donbar.

Lee Bush’s Guest
• Leah Bush, his daughter

Sam Taylor’s Guest
• Bailey Fair, Attorney, Fair Law Firm, LLC

Richard Wilbourn’s Guest
• Chase Wyn, Development Director, First Presbyterian Church

Tina Clay’s Guest
• Dorothy Thompson, Realtor, Dorothy Thompson Real Estate
________________________________________

HEAD TABLE:

PRESIDENT LEE BUSH – President and CEO of National Collection Systems

PRESIDENT–ELECT SETH DICKINSON – Attorney, Taggart Law Group, PLLC.

HONORARY HOST – GERARD GIBERT – Host of MidDays with Gerard Gibert at SuperTalk Mississippi

SPEAKER – RUSS LATINO, Founder and CEO, Magnolia Tribune
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JULY MEMBER BIRTHDAYS

Beau Bettiga Tuesday, July 28
Heber Simmons Friday, July 31
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Next Week’s Program – Monday, August 3, Mike McCormick, President, Mississippi's Farm Bureau Federation

His topic is “MFBF Over 100 Years.”
________________________________________

President-Elect Seth Dickinson introduced our speaker, Russ Latino.
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Russ Latino, Founder and CEO, Magnolia Tribune

Russ Latino is a proud Mississippian, lawyer, policy analyst, and the founder and CEO of the Magnolia Tribune, a nonprofit news organization focused on providing trustworthy reporting and insightful commentary.

Professional Background and Career
Russ Latino is originally from Mississippi and built a career spanning law, public policy, and media. Before launching Magnolia Tribune, he practiced business and constitutional law for a decade, developing expertise in legal and financial matters.

He also led a national economic and health-care policy portfolio, positioning him as a knowledgeable voice on governance and policy issues.

Latino has frequently served as a national spokesman and policy analyst, working with major outlets such as Politico and Bloomberg, and providing testimony and commentary to decision-makers and the media.

His writings have appeared in prominent publications, including The Wall Street Journal, National Review, USA Today, The Hill, and The Washington Examiner.

He often focuses on government, law, and public policy, emphasizing local issues in Mississippi while also commenting on national topics
Intelligent Relations.

Magnolia Tribune
In response to what he identified as a gap in the media marketplace, Russ Latino founded Magnolia Tribune in 2023 as a nonprofit, non-partisan newsroom aimed at restoring trust in traditional media and offering transparent, reliable reporting.

The organization absorbed the assets and work of the political blog Y’all Politics, with a goal to provide a mix of news, business, culture coverage, and thoughtful opinion pieces.

Magnolia Tribune aims to balance the media ecosystem, giving voice to multiple perspectives while often offering commentary appealing to a conservative audience. Latino has described the newsroom as an in-state Wall Street Journal, emphasizing straight news coverage and expert insight for Mississippians.

He has also hosted programs such as “The Sit Down”, reflecting his hands-on engagement in journalism and public discourse.

Media Presence and Public Engagement
Russ Latino has appeared on radio and television, including interviews on platforms like WJTV to discuss current events, media dynamics, and policy analysis.

His public engagement underscores his dedication to informing citizens and promoting civic knowledge. Through Magnolia Tribune, Latino continues to provide detailed reporting and commentary on Mississippi politics, legislative developments, and national issues, often aiming to educate and provoke thoughtful discussion.

Personal Attributes
Russ Latino is described as a Christian, husband, and father, combining his professional pursuits with a commitment to community and faith.

He leverages his legal, policy, and communications experience to ensure Magnolia Tribune delivers content that Mississippians can trust and reflect upon intelligently.

In summary, Russ Latino is a Mississippi native with a multifaceted career in law, public policy, and journalism. As the founder and CEO of Magnolia Tribune, he champions credible reporting, insightful analysis, and a platform for diverse perspectives while maintaining a focus on conservative and community-oriented viewpoints.

07/21/2026

July 20, 2026

Rotary Program – David Minton, General Counsel, Mississippi Gaming Commission

His talk is titled “Regulating Gaming in Mississippi: From the River to the Coast…and Beyond?”
________________________________________

Rotary President Lee Bush welcomed Rotarians and guests.
________________________________________

THE INVOCATION – delivered by David Raddin.
________________________________________

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – led by Dean Jim Rosenblatt
________________________________________

FOUR-WAY TEST – President Lee Bush
________________________________________

VISITING ROTARIANS AND GUESTS – introduced by Tony Webb.

Lee Bush’s Guest
Melanie Henry, National Collection Systems

Dean Jim Rosenblatt’s Guest
Justin Cantrelle
________________________________________

HEAD TABLE:

PRESIDENT LEE BUSH – President and CEO of National Collection Systems

HONORARY HOST – Hugh Tressel, Regenerative Farmer (practices regenerative agriculture, which focuses on enhancing the health and vitality of farm ecosystems.)

PRESIDENT–ELECT SETH DICKINSON – Attorney, Taggart Law Group, PLLC.

SPEAKER – David Minton, General Counsel, Mississippi Gaming Commission
________________________________________

ANNOUNCEMENT
Congratulations to Our Club’s Executive Secretary, Becky Redd

Becky has been elected Vice President of Opera Mississippi.
As Vice President, she will work alongside the Board of Directors and executive leadership to advance Opera Mississippi’s mission of enriching lives through exceptional opera performances, arts education, and cultural outreach across Mississippi.
________________________________________

JULY MEMBER BIRTHDAYS

Naomi Jackson July 20
________________________________________

Next Week’s Program – Monday, July 27, Russ Latino, Founder and CEO, Magnolia Tribune.

His topic is “Roundtable with Russ.”
________________________________________

President-Elect Seth Dickinson introduced our speaker, David Minton.
________________________________________

David Minton – General Counsel, Mississippi Gaming Commission

David C. Minton is the General Counsel of the Mississippi Gaming Commission (MGC), serving as the agency’s chief legal officer and in-house counsel. He is based in Jackson, Mississippi, and oversees all legal matters for the MGC, which is the state’s regulatory authority for casino gaming, fantasy sports gaming, and charitable gaming (bingo).

Role and Responsibilities
As General Counsel, Minton:

Provides legal advice to the MGC’s governing board, Executive Director, and administrative divisions.

Represents the Commission in all legal matters, including judicial appeals, licensure proceedings, work permit revocations, and patron disputes.

Assists in drafting proposed legislation and regulations.

Leads the Legal Division of the MGC MS Gaming Commission.

Professional Background
Current Role: General Counsel, Mississippi Gaming Commission (Oct 2025 – Present).

Previous Role: Special Assistant Attorney General and Deputy Director, State Agencies Division, Mississippi Attorney General’s Office (Dec 2018 – Oct 2025), where he served as AG counsel to the Mississippi Department of Education (2018–2021) and the Mississippi Gaming Commission (2021–2025).

Managing Attorney: Anderson Law Firm, PLLC (Feb 2016 – Dec 2018), overseeing a team of attorneys and managing the firm’s IOLTA Trust account.

Associate Attorney: Henley Lotterhos & Henley, PLLC (Jan 2010 – Feb 2016), focusing on high-volume creditor rights work.

Agency Context
The Mississippi Gaming Commission was established to ensure the integrity of the state and maintain public confidence in the gaming industry. It regulates Mississippi’s gaming sectors, including casinos, fantasy sports, and charitable bingo. It has a long history of adapting to challenges such as natural disasters and economic shifts.

Minton’s work is central to the MGC’s mission, ensuring compliance, protecting the gaming industry, and safeguarding the public interest in Mississippi’s gaming regulatory framework.

Rotary Club of Jackson, Mississippi

09/01/2026

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