Friends of Coal spokesmen Coach Bob Pruett, Jeremy Starks and Field Representative Mel Hancock have been making the rounds to promote the industry and the Friends of Coal. Last week they attended the groundbreaking for the new visitors' center at the Beckley Exhibition Mine, an open house at Hughes Supply, bringing attention to the expansion and new location, and the dedication of Bobby Pruett Stadium in Beckley. Mel has met with Narco, Phillips Machinery, Norfolk Southern, Nelson Brothers and Ranger Construction. Jeremy and Mel also attended and participated in meetings with the Paint Creek and Kelly's Creek Watershed Associations and Mel will speak to the Beckley Quota Club on June 26th. While they, as well as others, have been extremely busy in preparation for this year's YMCA Friends of Coal Auto Fair, they have obtained a half-dozen new members for the Association. The energetic presence and promotion of the Friends of Coal is effectively spreading the word and expanding the support.
