By By Steve Swogetinsky/The Meridian Star
Sunday, July 1, 2001
Creating a way to help community leaders get on the same page is the intent of The Riley Foundation as it gives life to The Montgomery Institute.
The Montgomery Institute, whose formation was officially announced today, was created through $1.455 million in grants from The Riley Foundation. Its purpose is to promote strategic thinking and analysis of issues for the betterment of the community by giving people of different views a venue to meet and reach consensus.
It is not being set up as a way to control the agenda, added Dr. Billy Riley, vice president and chief executive officer of The Riley Group.
The Institute was created as a 501(c)3 tax exempt foundation and named in honor of retired U.S. Rep. G.V. "Sonny" Montgomery of Meridian.
While they will remain interested in the progress of The Montgomery Institute, the Rileys said they will not be involved in the daily mechanics.
Steve Swogetinsky is regional editor of The Meridian Star. Call him at 693-1551, ext. 3217, or e-mail him at sswogetinsky@themeridianstar.com.