Our Home Hospitality events are scheduled for the week of April 21st through the 27th and we are looking for members to host during the week. These social events will replace our Wednesday, April 24th lunch meeting. If you are interested in hosting a small or large group at your home, place of business or even at a restaurant, please let Dorinna know the date, time, location and the amount of guests you will host.
This is a great opportunity to meet your fellow Rotarians during this Home Hospitality Week!
The intention of this presentation is to introduce the attendees to Feng Shui on a broader scope, and the concept of ‘energy’ which emanates from the physical form of the environment. Did you ever walk into a space and feel creepy? Feng Shui can explain why! Energies can be beneficial and enhance human life, stagnant and non-supportive, or even destructive. This presentation will show how to recognize some of these energies, provide insights on how to capitalize on the beneficial ones, and mitigation techniques to neutralize the negative ones. In essence, the goal of the presentation is to enhance the way we look at the world.
The Surgeon General's job is to protect, promote and advance the health, safety and security of the nation. A seemingly simple value proposition until you factor in the intense partisanship and dysfunctional politics that have a morbidity and mortality of its own. Surgeon General Carmona will discuss his journey to becoming Surgeon General as well as the challenges and opportunities of being Surgeon General.
John Horsman will join us for an “interview” type of program about his experiences in the world of professional sports car designing, constructing and racing. His life in sports car racing is historical to say the least. Having won major races all over the world, and having designed, developed and constructed many of the greatest race cars, John and his wife, Janet, have retired to Tucson but his interest in racing has never diminished. This year, John and his friends, are bringing four of the world’s best known racing sports cars to our Tucson Classics Car Show. They will be on display for you and our guests to enjoy. Included will be a Porsche 917 and a Mirage M1, M6 and GR8. John will also be available to discuss each car and to answer questions during the day.
Kristian Richardson will address Arizona’s position in the global economy, primary industries for Arizona’s exports and foreign direct investment. Kristian will answer questions related to Federal, State and local resources to help companies access global markets.
Greg Byrne was named Arizona's 11th Director of Athletics in March 2010 and officially started in that role on May 3, 2010. Since then, Byrne has helped Arizona Athletics maintain its proud position both nationally and in the Pac-12 through the department’s five goals and principles: Graduate Student-Athletes; Follow the Rules; Represent the University and Athletics Department in a First-Class Manner; Practice Sound Fiscal Management; and Compete for Championships. In addition, Byrne has spent most of his tenure focused on new fundraising initiatives, member expansion for the Wildcat Club and facility upgrades.
The state of Arizona has long been the importing capitol for Mexican fresh fruits and vegetables. In fact, more than 4 billion pounds cross the border in Nogales each year, generating economic impact throughout southern Arizona and the whole state. Learn about the major issues and opportunities presented by this century-old business, with a presentation from Lance Jungmeyer, President of the Fresh Produce Association of the Americas.
Dick Gruentzel will give an update about the latest news at Tucson International Airport. Among other things, hear about new air service and efforts to attract more flights, the impact of airline mergers, the impact of Phoenix Sky Harbor on TIA, major terminal and airfield projects and the new air traffic control tower.
Public lands have a rich history that dates back to the Louisiana Purchase. Our nation’s approach towards these lands moved gradually from disposal in the 1800’s and early 1900’s to one of retention and “multiple-use management” that balances conservation with economic development. In the 21st century, public lands are expected to be a major role in outdoor recreation, tourism and community quality of life.
Pima Association of Governments is the region’s federally designated metropolitan planning organization that coordinates cross-jurisdictional planning efforts with PAG members. PAG has a nine-member Regional Council composed of chief elected officials or designees from the Cities of South Tucson and Tucson, the Towns of Marana, Oro Valley and Sahuarita, Pima County, the Pascua Yaqui Tribe, the Tohono O'odham Nation and the Governor-appointed Pima County representative of the Arizona State Transportation Board.
The Arizona Game and Fish Catalina Bighorn Sheep Re-introduction Advisory Committee is comprised of many diverse individuals including environmentalist, conservationists and sportsmen. As a committee our goal is to restore a viable population of bighorn sheep in the Santa Catalina Mountains. Please join us to learn information about the project.
Congresswoman Martha McSally joined us today, and helped open the meeting by leading us in pledge and song. Unlike many of us Rotarians, Congresswoman McSally has a pretty good singing voice and, unlike me, she wasn’t shy about singing in the microphone. Nice job with the song!
LONNIE LISTER did a great job introducing visitors and guests. We had a short visitor list of one, but quite a long list of guests for this meeting. We had four Rotarians celebrate their birthday at this week’s meeting. PETER BEAHAN is celebrating his 17th year as a Rotarian as a member at three different clubs. GARY HIRSCH informed us he is turning 65, and asked that we all continue to make that payroll deduction for Medicare! DARRELL STEWART suggested a new nickname for PRESIDENT PHIL, “PP” for short. (Not sure PRESIDENT PHIL shares DARRELL’S interest in this as a nickname!) And finally, JIM LUBINSKI shared his birthday greeting with us. HAPPY BIRTHDAY to all of you!
ERNIE MINCHELLA introduced our newest member, CHOM HUBER. CHOM is looking forward to her involvement in Tucson Rotary, and is especially looking forward to giving her time and support to local charities!
For our program today, Congresswoman McSally shared her thoughts regarding her first six months in Congress. From my personal perspective, it was interesting hearing directly from a freshman Congressional member. I especially appreciate her focus on the A-10 and maintaining a squadron here at Davis-Monthan. It seems to me that the Tucson area needs the continued support of all our Congressional leaders to ensure we don’t lose a significant portion of our economy.
I hope you all have a wonderful 4th of July Holiday weekend. Enjoy the fireworks wherever you spend this special day in our history!
The topic for our assembly is ” Where is the Bang for our Buck” or “What are the current major community issues facing Tucson that our charitable dollars could best be used to improve?”
Arnie Jacobsen, Past Club President and Chair of our RCT Foundation Strategic Planning Committee, will provide oversight to the Club Assembly and introduce Clint Mabie, President and CEO of the Community Foundation for Southern Arizona. The program will provide background on “Making Action Possible (MAP)”, and demonstrate how it can be used to evaluate our community's needs related to areas where our club can have the greatest impact. At the end of the meeting, members will be selecting one issue area that we should support in the future.
Congresswoman Martha McSally proudly represents the people of Arizona’s Second Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives, where she serves on the Committees on Armed Services and Homeland Security and as the chair of the Subcommittee on Emergency Preparedness, Response, and Communications.
Prior to serving in Congress, Representative McSally served 26 years in the U.S. Air Force, retiring in 2010 as a full Colonel. She is the first female fighter pilot to fly in combat and first to command a fighter squadron in combat in United States history.
My name is Goel Ellis. I was born Zahra Golab Mohammadpourhajitarkhani. Life has not been easy for me by any means, but with that said I refused to let my situation become my circumstances. I have experienced depression, bullying, drug abuse, and family illness. Through all of this, one place has been there to help me maintain my sanity and thrive. My Boys and Girls Club has been a part of my life for the past 11 years. It has given me knowledge, supportive relationships, wonderful experiences, and has set me up on a path for success. When I walk through the doors of my clubhouse, I can be whoever I want to be, and there are caring and supportive staff who see my full potential and want to help see me succeed. However outside those doors it’s not always that way.
According to the Centers for Disease Control, the United States is in the midst of the largest epidemic of opiate and heroin addiction in the history of the world. There are now more deaths from opiate overdose than all motor vehicle accidents and the numbers are growing. Arizona is ranked in the top 10 states struggling with this epidemic. At the June 10th meeting, we will hear from Dr. Lenn Ditmanson, Medical Director of the Opiate Treatment Program at COPE Community Services followed by a panel discussion. The discussion will be moderated by Lupita Murillo from Channel 4.
Rotary International's Manual of Procedure (2013), states that Club Assemblies "are held...to share club projects, activities and other initiatives." This week's meeting is designed to explore the future of our Club with our Membership. Our Board of Directors typically sets daily, weekly and yearly policy, but the Membership must give our Board general and long term direction. This helps the Board both follow the general Membership's desires for current policies as well as establishing the parameters for future goals.
Hooked: Heroin's Hold on Arizona was a Cronkite School of Journalism project that Sean Logan provided the videography and website development work. The documentary ran statewide on every television station in January and is starting to win many awards. Recently, Sean Logan's work won 4th place in the nation by the Wm. Randolph Hearst Journalism award for multimedia and the documentary is nominated for a Rocky Mountain Emmy award.
Heroin is an epidemic that is touching all of Arizona and all social classes. This show was meant to bring a focus to the problem.
During the April 29 meeting, club members will hear summary presentations from the “Final Four” candidates for portions of the 2015 TCCS net proceeds. This is very significant money for these organizations. Based on your vote, two of the organizations will be recommended to receive 20% of net proceeds and two will receive 5% of net proceeds. The 2015 nominees are: El Rio Foundation, Imago Dei Middle School, Youth on Their Own, and YWCA. Your vote is important and the work we do is important.
David W. Fitzsimmons is 59 and should know better. “Fitz” is the Editorial Cartoonist and Humor Columnist for “The Arizona Daily Star” where he has worked since Geronimo was a paperboy in Tucson, Arizona.
The concept of ‘media’ is changing. More people are getting their news from a screen rather than a newspaper and, thanks to the powerful combination of social media and mobile devices, that news comes lightning fast. AZPM is one of the only remaining media outlets that present comprehensive, unbiased information and educational programming in multiple platforms as well as being a tremendous local community resource.
Drew grew up on a dude ranch/farm in Tucson and graduated from the University of Arizona in 1969 with a degree in Marketing/Management. He and Kandie (Levitz) were married and lived on the east coast for 5 years while working for RCA and then Levitz Furniture Corporation. He returned to Tucson in 1974 to become General Manager of his family's restaurant, The Tack Room.
Jerry Harris will talk about the evolution of the American novel, novels and novelists who influenced him, standards for a novel, and the making of his second novel, “Lim Couch”.
Jerry Harris grew up on a farm in Yazoo County, Mississippi and owned horses before he was school age. His father's farm was divided into a cattle operation and a crop raising operation. Jerry graduated from Millsaps College in Jackson, Mississippi with a BA in English. While at Millsaps, he wrote short stories under the tutelage of Pulitzer Prize winner, Eudora Welty, Writer in Residence. After graduating from the University of Mississippi Law School, Jerry moved to Memphis, Tennessee. In March of 1974, Jerry became a prosecutor with the Shelby County Tennessee Attorney General's Office. He worked as an active trial attorney until 2004 at which time he retired. He was head of the Major Violators Unit, Chief Homicide Prosecutor, and Legal Advisor to the Homicide Bureau of the Memphis Police Department.
During the period from 1976 to 1990, Jerry trained, showed, and judged Quarter Horses and Tennessee Walkers in amateur shows in the Mid South. In 2007, Jerry and his wife, Dr. Audrey Tuberville, retired to Tucson, Arizona. His youngest daughter is on the faculty of the University of Virginia. His oldest daughter is a teacher and a successful horse trainer in Georgia. Jerry is a member of the Western Writers of America and is a four year member of the Rotary Club of Tucson of which he is a member of the Scholarship Committee and enjoys helping sell tickets for the Tucson Classics Car Show.
WHY ROTARY? Great question and great presentation from Brad Howard. I think it would behoove all of us to really ponder that question. I think once we answer that question, it will solidify the reason for our membership and help us recruit other members. Rotary is more than "service above self" as Brad said and I think it's time we start understanding and appreciating all of the benefits of being a Rotarian. I hope you found Brad's talk as inspiring and challenging as I did.
Thank you again to Dr. Alan Rogers for faithfully bringing a guest each week and I was pleased to give him a "Four Way Test" coin to recognize him for his help in recruiting new members.
I would be thrilled if we could get the Presidential Citation, but one of the areas we need fulfilled is Every Rotarian Every Year (EREY). We need every member to give a minimum of $1.00 toward their Paul Harris. It seems like such a minimal amount and very doable. If you haven't pledged anything towards your Paul Harris, please consider it and remember that we have matching points for those who donate $100 or more.
As I mentioned, I will be gone this week and am grateful to President Elect Phil for filling in for me once again. He did such an outstanding job last time and we are fortunate to have him as our incoming President! Looking forward to seeing all of your smiling faces on March 18th and remember to bring a guest. Thank you.
Mayor Jonathan Rothschild came to City Hall promising accountability in government, increased emphasis on economic growth and help for those most in need.
President MARY MARTIN made special mention of fellow Rotarian CLARKE DUNCAN and how he fell and hurt his knee recently. Next she mentioned that MIKE ORCUTT’s daughter is seriously ill and asked that we pray for a quick recovery. The invocation was given by BILL MOORE and he too asked for the quick recovery of MIKE’s daughter. Our pledge was run by DALE BERG who also lead us in the singing of “America the Beautiful”. Great job DALE! Next KEN TUCKER introduced all the guests and visiting Rotarians. Almost all of them were pronounced correctly! Special Happy Birthday wishes were sent out to JILL MADDEN, DREW VACTOR, BOB MORKEN, and PAULINE HECHLER. JILL wanted to mention that she is looking for a host family for Maria from Finland, DREW mentioned that he has not missed a meeting in 29 years, BOB told us a great story about repurchasing his grandmother’s green 1949 Cadillac, and PAULINE shared that she will be jumping from a plane on March 14th and asked us all to join her.
PHIL GUTT introduced a new Networking table event that will be held on April 1st at 11:30 am. JENNIFER HOFFMAN said ROTARY DAYS will be held on Sat. March 28th and tickets are only $5. CINDY GODWIN gave a well -deserved blue badge to DALE BERG. And finally DAVE GALLAHER mentioned again that they were looking for a host family for Maria Gaad from Finland.
JIM LUBINSKI did an excellent job introducing Brad Howard the incoming Rotary International Zone Director who gave a presentation on “Why Rotary”. BRAD started with asking “why did we join Rotary?” We should be able to articulate the value that Rotary brings to each of us because recent surveys show that Rotarians join not for “Service Above Self” but for other reasons. BRAD said we should start thinking of our organization less as a “service organization with memberships” and more as a “membership organization that does service”. We need to show prospective members that we can do things together that you simply cannot achieve on your own like the fight against Polio. BRAD provided a progress report on the fight against Polio. It now only exists in three countries (Nigeria, Afghanistan, and Pakistan) with only 359 new cases reported in 2014 (down from over 350,000 in the mid 1980s)! If we reach July 24th with no new cases in Nigeria, Polio will have been eradicated from the continent of Africa! BRAD gave an outstanding presentation that brought everyone to their feet for a standing ovation!
Another fine lunch came to a close with a great group of fellow ROTARIANS.
Not to worry…President Mary returns this Wednesday. Your patience with her rookie stand-in last week is appreciated!
Did you know that Rotary International has studied the reasons members give for what they were looking for upon joining? While 50% listed “service opportunities” as a motivation, 50% also indicated a desire for “fellowship and networking.” RI has even adopted “Growing Local Economies” as one of its six areas of focus. Our club has a number of varied service projects, and the club Board is investigating ways to provide even more in the way of member networking.
Plans are underway to offer a pre-meeting networking session at 11:30 a.m. on Wednesdays in our club meeting room. For members only, you’ll have the chance to exchange ideas about each person’s business – what you specialize in, types of new customers you seek, how your fellow members can best help your business, etc.
Interested in helping get the project underway? Send Phil Gutt an email or give Dorinna or Shawn your name when you arrive at lunch Wednesday. If the pilot sessions (monthly) prove to be a benefit, the frequency can be increased. Look for our first get-together in four or five weeks – there will be several announcements in advance.
If you have other ideas to enhance networking – or any other aspect of the Rotary membership experience – send them to President Mary. They will be considered.
Brad, a charter member of the Rotary Club of Oakland-Sunrise and Past District Governor of District 5170 (California’s Silicon Valley), will be the Zones 25 & 26 Rotary International Director for the 2015-16 and 2016-17 Rotary years.
“Conductor George Hanson, protégé of Leonard Bernstein, clearly inherited his mentor’s expressive talents: dynamic energy flowed through his fingers as he conducted the Orchestre Philharmonique de Nice.” (Nice Matin, July 2014)
On Feb. 18, Brent DeRaad, president and CEO of Visit Tucson, the travel promotion agency for Tucson and southern Arizona, will discuss tourism’s impact on the region’s economy. He will also focus on how to increase visitation to Tucson, which will increase visitor spending, regional sales- and bed-tax revenue, and area jobs tied to the travel industry.
Michael E. Bakich, Senior Editor, Astronomy magazine
Where will you be August 21, 2017? If that question seems premature, consider that thousands of Americans already have taken that day off and thousands of people who live outside the United States have booked trips to be here then. On that date, people stationed along a narrow path from Oregon to South Carolina will experience nature’s grandest spectacle: a total eclipse of the Sun.
The Spring Mixer (Valentines, Hearts, & Flowers) will take place on February 4, 2015 from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. in the lobby of the Viscount Suites, 4855 E. Broadway. This will be a replacement meeting for our February 4th lunch meeting so there is no cost to members and guest fee is $25.00. Sign up on Clubrunner under "Upcoming Events". Our Club Raffle will include prizes such as, Wine, Chocolates, Flowers, and Jewelry. Come and have some fun with your fellow Rotarians...
Four Stars*****Green Valley Shopper, Two ThumbsupRoswell NM News Express. Directed by Bill Moore and Produced by Pat Zumbusch with a talent rich all-star cast of thousands. “AWESOME” “FIRST-RATE” “EPIC” “DRAMATIC”
Based on the true story of Rotarians wandering around in the desert heat that discover the idea of a Classic Car Show to raise money for Charity. They cleverly named this inspiration Tucson Classics Car Show. In this 8th adaptation of the TCCS story, the surprise outcome of the 2014 TCCS will be revealed. Some key people will receive just accolades from a rowdy club. And (SPOILER ALERT) in a surprise ending to this sequel, the money raised through the 2014 TCCS will be given away on the spot to local charities.
While Generation Y, also called the Millennial Generation, presents distinct challenges in challenging times, there is much reason for optimism. This is in one of the most peaceful, secure, innovative, and globalized periods in human history, with a Millennial generation rising that is financially smart, multilingual, born-global, technologically advanced, culturally diverse, and community-centered. How we catalyze and harness this potential is crucial to a sustainable and productive future. Zach will share some thoughts on why he believes this Generation statistically could be the Next Greatest Generation, present a few key ways Millennials think, process, and interact, and ideas for engaging with them productively.
Ken Dorushka and Pam Simon, both injured during the shootings of January 8th, and members of the Board of Directors for the January 8th Memorial Foundation will share an overview of the project, and a brief history on the formation of the Foundation. They will show the progress of the project, work that has been completed, and explain the due diligence done to get to a point where we now have a concrete and meaningful Master Plan concept to present to our community. The process has truly been a public/private partnership that continues to evoke the same unified spirit exhibited throughout Tucson in the wake of the January 8th tragedy. granddaughter!
The 2014 Holiday Mixer, which was held on Wednesday, December 17th was another successful event for the Club. Held at Kelly Abbott's "Park Avenue" location, it was an evening of good food, fun, laughter and fellowship. Thanks go out to Lindsay Bishop for all the arrangements, Bill Moore for tackling the Children's Book Raffle for "Reading Seed" and to Roger Harwell for welcoming our Scholar and Exchange students.
Santa came early to the Tucson Rotary! He entered the meeting just after the pledge and song, with a red sack filled with something. Not sure what, since I didn’t see him handing out any gifts. He certainly didn’t give me a gift… but it appears I’m in good company with all you other naughty Rotarians who didn’t receive a gift!
There were several Birthdays announced – TOM HEALY, CHAR ERNSTEIN, JACK PARRIS, LINDA WOJTOWICZ, and DALE BERG. As usual, all were generous with donations. However, one Birthday is worth a special mention. CLARKE DUNCAN turns 90 years old on December 17th, which happens to be the day of the Club Holiday Party. So if you see CLARKE, be sure to wish him a very Happy Birthday!
Speaking of the Club Holiday Party, it is next Wednesday from 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM. Be sure to sign-up online and come join the fun. As Fonzi used to say “Be there or be square!”
We had too many announcements to report them all, however I’d like to mention a couple. First, JOE NEVIN reported that our team that rode to end polio in the El Tour raised $10,000! This effort deserves a round of applause for all those who helped. Outstanding job! Second, BILL MOORE reported the Club’s progress on providing books for Reading Seed. So far, the Club has donated 100 books and also enough money to purchase 400 more! This far surpasses the original goal and shows, once again, the generosity of the Tucson Rotary members. Lastly, SALLY MONTAGNE and IRENE DECKER shared first-hand the results of the prosthetic hand project. IRENE has a business associate who is missing a hand, and he joined our meeting to share his extremely positive experience with the prosthetic he received. In comparing the new hand with his older, heavier prosthetic, he pointed out that he can type with the new prosthetic “without smashing the keyboard.” I don’t know about you, but it makes me feel good when I hear stories like this.
CONGRATULATIONS to ELLIE PATTERSON, who was animatedly announced by PHIL GUTT as the next President Elect Elect or PEE. I’m not sure about that acronym, but I’m sure ELLIE will do a great job for the Tucson Rotary as the new PEE!
Our program for the meeting was a dance presentation put on by students of Joseph Rodgers and Soleste Lupu's "Dancing in the Streets". For me, it was great seeing young kids involved with an activity that demands discipline, dedication and perseverance, life skills that will certainly help each of them “dance towards a better life.”
In closing, allow me to be un-politically correct and say “Merry Christmas” and “Happy Hanukkah” and “Happy Kwanzaa”. May the Spirit of the Season be with you all!
The Holidays are a time of festivity, joy, family and friends, but for many, it is a time of loneliness and heartache. I am so grateful that as a Club, we have been able to impart a little joy and hope throughout this year for many through the prosthetic hand project, the Salvation Army, Honor Flight, the charitable organizations that we helped through our Tucson Classics Car Show, the students we help with scholarships at U of A and Pima Community College, helping to bring 530 presents to kids in San Carlos and so much more. We can't do everything and can't help everyone, but through Rotary, we can touch one life at a time and collectively bring hope and joy to many. As the year draws to an end, we have so much to be thankful for and much to celebrate. Thank you for your generous donation of time, talent and resources and sharing them with our community and world! Wishing all of you the blessings of family, friends, provision, peace and joy during this holiday season and throughout the New Year! I look forward to seeing all of you one last time this year on the 17th for our Holiday Mixer at Park Avenue.
To be recognized as a world class performing arts organization, primarily for at-risk youth, committed to the youth's cultural and artistic development.
Mission:
To use the power of dance to break down cultural barriers and enrich the student's and community’s artistic experience through the creation of a diverse dance school and company.
Grand Holiday Raffle to benefit The Reading Seed Library; best prizes of the year and two ways to enter: at the Holiday Mixer on Dec 17 bring children’s books to donate and receive two raffle tickets for each book donated, or buy raffle tickets $10 each 3 for $20 and all money collected will be used to buy more books. Good children’s books are the keystone on learning to read and wanting to read better.
Grand Prizes: (1) Two nights and three days at Antler Ridge Resort in Greer, Arizona. (Donated by George Darling); (2) GE 31-Bottle Stainless Steel Freestanding Wine Chiller (Donated by Chris Edwards).
Other Prizes: (1) Four Bottles of great “Holiday Wine”- One Zin, one Cab, one Pinot Noir and one Brunello (Donated by Jerry Harris); (2) A fantastic Christmas Centerpiece (Donated by Irene Decker).
The prize drawing will be held at the Holiday Mixer on December 17 and while we like everyone at the mixer you do not have to be present to win.
First order of business, DON SHROPSHIRE, we wish you a speedy recovery from your recent injury and will keep you in our thoughts and prayers. Speaking of which, PAT ZUMBUSCH opened with his (as usual) excellent invocation and prayer. In consideration of our program presenters, PAT shared some great quotations regarding both doctors and engineers.
BOBBY LARSON had a big task introducing guests and visitors as we had too many for me to count this week.
Happy Birthday shout-out to PAT DAVITT, who being a big believer in education stuffed the scholarship cup with a handful of cash. Also JIM DAVENPORT and CAM MOORE. CAM informed us he was celebrating his 35th birthday. (I think I still remember that year….)
This week was a raffle week, and there were several happy winners who all appeared to be sitting at the same table. Needless to say, I was not one of them, even though RON OXMAN promised me a winning ticket! There was a surprise auction, two tickets to see jazz pianist Dr. John, which were eventually sold to auctioneer DAVE GALLAHER. Program presenter Dr. Jerzy Rozenblit commented that this was the first time he attended an auction that was won by the auctioneer!
Joel Black received his blue badge, congratulations Joel...
There were several announcements, too many to cover here, however I’d like to point out that ELLIE PATTERSON updated us on the results of the recently held Ride to End Polio, which raised approximately $6.7 million for the cause! Amazing work and thanks for all who helped with this event. ELLIE also reported that, coupled with this financial support and a lot of hard work, Africa may be polio-free by the end of next year!
Finally, Dr. JON WANG introduced U of A Cardiologist Dr. Peter Ott and U of A Electrical Engineer, Dr. Jerzy Rozenblit, who together provided an interesting and informative presentation on electricity in the heart. More specifically, how faulty electrical wiring in the heart can lead to an irregular heartbeat. Many questions were asked, so I can see I was not the only person in the audience who found this topic interesting.
Happy Thanksgiving to all Rotarians! (A little belatedly…)
It's hard to believe that this week is the last official meeting of the year! We will meet at the Doubletree this week and then we will have our Annual Holiday Mixer on December 17th at Park Avenue. If you haven't done so, please go on Clubrunner and rsvp for you and your guest. If you need assistance, please contact Dorinna or Shawn and they will help. We will be dark the 24th and 31st and will meet again on January 7, 2016! We have accomplished much this year and I am grateful to each of you for your contribution of time, talent and resources. By the time you read this article, our members who attended the San Carlos trip will be back and our runners will have completed the Tucson Marathon. Thank you for all who donated to the San Carlos project and sponsored our runners to help benefit our scholarship fund. Thank you to all who have signed up for the Salvation Army Bell Ringing on December 13th. I am continually amazed at the level of generosity and commitment to changing lives locally and globally through Rotary. I look forward to seeing all of you on Wednesday and remember to bring a guest. Thank you.
Hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving and are looking forward to the Holiday season before us. I was at the Area President's meeting this morning and was once again impressed hearing about all of the things that Rotary does right here in our community! Then looking at the monthly Rotarian and reading about Rotarians around the world bringing clean water to remote villages in Cambodia, treating children with clubfoot, riding to end polio and many other projects all with the Rotary mantra of "service above self." As individuals we may not be able to solve our community's or world's problems, but together as Rotarians we are able to impact and improve the lives of hundreds of thousands of people less fortunate.
The Rotary Club of Tucson is making a huge impact this month through our annual Christmas trip to San Carlos where we will be giving gifts to 530 children in three different schools, the Tucson Marathon where we're raising money for our scholarship fund which will provide scholarships to students at Pima Community College and the U of A, and the annual Salvation Army bell ringing on December 13th.
Thank you for your participation in Rotary and for helping us make someone's life a little better. Looking forward to seeing you Wednesday and bring a guest.
This week’s meeting began with a moment of silence for JOAN DARR RICHARDSON, a member of the club from November 2000 until July 2010.
MIKE ORCUTT took care of the invocation and JAN GREEN had the pledge and song…or should I say our attempt at “Anchors Aweigh.” ELLIE PATTERSON did a fabulous job with accompaniment.
Introduction of this week’s guests was completed by BRUCE TUNZE. Introductions were followed by this week’s birthday crew; BRUCE and MARIANNE FREITAS. Happy birthday to the two of you!
CHARLOTT HARRIS and BOB LOGAN had a large group for Paul Harris recognition; congratulations and thank you to JOE NEVIN, JOHN COUSINS, DICK KOLASA, MICHELLE FELIX, President MARY MARTIN, CAROL LONG, RANDY LONG and LARRY ADAMSON.
ANDREW MARTIN introduced new member, MIKE MELTON. JUDY KEAGY introduced returning member, TOM MCQUILLEN.
A few key items covered in the weekly announcements are; President MARY began with thanks to ELLIE and husband Tom for their efforts with El Tour. MATT BLAIR updated on the San Carlos trip. KENT LAUGHBAUM requested all of our assistance with contribution for the upcoming marathon. PAT LENNAN then briefed the club on the December 13th Salvation Army Bell Ringing. LINDSAY BISHOP covered the Holiday Mixer. In conclusion, MIKE ORCUTT reminded of the final STAR training on December 4th.
This week’s program was introduced by JIM RONSTADT. Our presenter was Bora Matarazzo, who shared her unbelievable story of survival in Cambodian labor camps.
What happens when heart experts team up with UA electrical and computer engineers? They create one of the only 3-D heart models that can visualize cardiac arrhythmia. Discover more about this 3-D model and electricity and your heart.
The cardiac visualizations were developed to assist medical students and fellows in understanding the underlying electrophysiology of cardiac arrhythmias and their treatments. The users can freely move to any position of the heart and observe it from any point of view. A transparent mode is applied to facilitate a more detailed exploration of the heart. Two common types of arrhythmias, atrial flutter and atrioventricular nodal re-entrant tachycardia as well as the effects of catheter ablation treatment will be discussed. VR920 3D glasses facilitate virtual reality immersion.
This week’s meeting began with a moment of silence for Rick Middleton, HELEN MIDDLETON’S son who passed away on Saturday and for TONY ZIEHLER of Ziehler Insurance, who passed away on Monday in Phoenix. Cards were passed around to sign for the families.
MICHELLE FELIX followed with the invocation. DALE BERG lead the pledge and Marine Hymn song with a brief introduction of guest Marine SGT Jose Jimenez. The fabulous ELLIE PATTERSON on piano! DENNIS DRISCOLL of Tucson Physical Therapy introduced guests and visiting Rotarians.
Happy Birthday wishes to: MATT NANCE, of Arizona Designs, Kitchens & Baths, on November 22nd!
DAVE WHITE of White Star Consulting introduced new member PAT DAVITT, who owns “Tuscany & Beyond Travel” and “Razorback Ranch Designs”.
BILL MESCH of Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage introduced new member BUZZ DEMPSEY of VIP Mortgage, who has a passion for sports and has served as an Official National PAC Referee.
PAT RASKOB introduced STEVE BORDEN, who is the COO of PAT's company, Raskob Kambourian Financial Advisors. PAT stated she was very lucky to have STEVE on board.
DAVID PASHKOW, Sergeant at Arms, helped with multiple announcements.
MARK IRVIN announces the TCC rededication event on January 3rd, A Beach Boys Concert. Tickets only $25!
Happy Jacksons for ROGER HARWELL for his Copper Cactus Award, and to JIM MURPHY for this year's Founders Award!
Blue badge presentation by JOE NEVIN to PETER MAYER and JOHN LEWIS presented a blue badge to ROBYN FREY.
MATT BLAIR says they are set for the San Carlos trip and JENNIFER HOFFMAN still needs runners for her team!
PAUL HALLUMS of EZ AZ Traffic School introduced our program speaker the world famous, Dr. Kevin Lehman, who presented his advice from one of his 42 books “How To Have A Happy Family By Friday”. Dr. Lehman gave us a laughter-filled experience about the importance of family relationships.
This can be quite the challenge because “Women are Weird” and “Men are Strange”. Since men hate the “why” word, Dr. Lehman challenged women in the room to change their words into language men can understand. Think of your husband as a four year old that shaves!
Relationships with our children grow strong with the right dose of guidance and encouragement. Letting our children fail and finding unexpected opportunities to connect with them are key factors.
CHARLOTTE HARRIS and JIM LUBINSKI announced the three new board members voted in for 2015-2017. Congratulations to Allyn Bulzomi, Yvonne Ervin and Bruce Tunze!
November 22, 2014 - Tour de Tucson, Rotaract Club in action at the aid station at the intersection of Valencia and Old Nogales Hwy - 6:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m.
December 1, 2014 - Final Meeting of the Semester - 6:30 p.m. in the Agave Room of the Student Union
Vicheara was born in Phnom Penh, Cambodia in the peaceful days before the Khmer Rouge communist rebels engulfed this small Southeast Asian nation in four years of death and destruction. As the only child of a wealthy and politically prominent father, her young life was one of great contrasts. She went to University of Phnom Penh to study pharmacy and met her husband there. Their forbidden romance caused much conflict but eventually they prevailed and married in January,1975, four months before the Khmer Rouge took over and their lives turned upside down.
I love Thanksgiving, not just because I love turkey and all the trimmings, but for me, it's a time of reflection and remembering how many things I have to be thankful for. It gives me pause to have an attitude of gratitude. I'm grateful for my husband, children and grandchildren. I'm grateful for my health and the work I get to do every day. I'm grateful for my friends and how we can come alongside each other in times of sorrow and joy and mourn with those who mourn and rejoice with those who rejoice. I'm grateful for the men and women who serve in our armed forces, which gives us the opportunity to live in a Country where we are free to worship and express our opinions without fear of reprisal. I'm grateful to belong to an organization that puts service above self and pours into the lives of so many hurting people both locally and globally. I'm grateful for each of you and continue to be amazed at how extraordinary our Club truly is!
Wishing each of you a joyous and blessed Thanksgiving and I look forward to seeing you Wednesday. Remember to bring a guest!
For this week's article, I want to share the bulletin from our U of A Rotaract Club so you can see what a dynamic group we are sponsoring. Allyn Bulzomi is doing such a great job with our Interact and Rotaract Clubs - thank you Allyn! I look forward to seeing all of you Wednesday and remember to bring a guest. Thank you.
Rotaract Bulletin
Week of November 10th
Greetings everyone! This past weekend, theFall Leadership Conference went underway, and was a great success! Our Rotaract club had the largest showing of members at the Conference (go us!) and everyone gained invaluable knowledge about Rotaract from the ideas exchanged within the three Districts’ college Rotaract clubs: NAU, ASU, and UA.
Don’t forget about the Rotaract Bowling Night on Tuesday, November 11 night! If you haven’t bought tickets before, they will also be sold at the door, so don’t worry. Ten dollars gets you in the door and a pair of shoes – so come on out to support the Club! Where to go then, for this great time? Golden Pin Lanes, on Miracle Mile just west of Oracle Rd. Hope to see you there!!
Lastly, our next meeting will be held on Monday, November 17th,at 6:30 pm, in the Pima Room of the Student Union. The best way to stay informed is to come to the meetings, so be there!
As always, like us on Facebook and Twitter, and keep an eye on your inbox for new emails from the club.
This week’s meeting began with a moment of silence for JARED “JERRY” JACKSON.
PAULINE HECHLER followed with the invocation recognizing the service of all our veterans.
CLIFF BOWMAN had the pledge and song. Many thanks to DALE BERG for saving the day during the Army song and GARY HIRSCH did another fabulous job with accompaniment.
Introduction of this week’s guests and visiting Rotarians was completed by GEORGE DARLING. GEORGE also recognized all of the veterans in our club. Introductions were followed by this week’s birthday crew; JUDY KEAGY, PAUL HALLUMS and MARGARET HIGGINS. Happy birthday to you all!
A few key items covered in the weekly announcements are; PRESIDENT MARY MARTIN asked us to save the date of December 17th for the holiday mixer. JOE NEVIN reminded of the Fall Closet Cleaning for Goodwill at next week’s meeting, November 19th. Review of the Board Candidate Bios was completed by DAVE GALLAHER and election will follow next week. JENNIFER HOFFMAN has a full team for the marathon and hinted at a second team. MATT BLAIR asked for final registration on the San Carlos trip. PAT LENNAN then briefed the club on the December 13th Salvation Army Bell Ringing. PAT also directed us to register on Clubrunner. Lastly, TOM ANDREWS had a great happy Jackson recognizing his daughter’s acceptance into the international rotary program and Evan Manning announced the birth of his son!
Blue Badge presentation for four members was next. TOM ANDREWS presented BRUCE RICHARDSON, BRUCE TUNZE presented PATT WATTS, PHIL GUTT presented BILL MESCH and MIKE SAGARA presented ROBERT MORKEN. Congratulations!
This week’s program was introduced by RICHARD WHITE. Our presenter was Bob Graham. Bob directs the SSVF grant which is Supportive Services for Veteran Families. Since its initiation, this program has helped 460 families distributing over $800,000 in temporary assistance.
You remember way back when you and your spouse paid attention to each other
A good day is when you send your kids to their room only once
An exciting evening with your spouse is no yelling and no trips to the ER
You spend a lot of time wishing things were different in your family
If any of these questions resonate with you, you’ll really benefit from hearing Dr. Leman talk about what you can do to turn your family life around and bring peace to your home in a matter of days!
TED KIRACOFE started the program with the Invocation as well as a great message for all of our elected officials following Tuesday’s election.
CLIFF BOWMAN spent a few minutes explaining the November plan for pledge and song. CLIFF then introduced SSgt. Contreras who led us in the pledge and “Air Force Song”. Thank you for your service and joining us! GARY HIRSCH did another fabulous job with accompaniment.
JEFF RONSTADT had the honor of introducing this week’s visitors. Introductions were followed by celebration of MARK IRVIN’S birthday which was October 29th. DAVE GALLAHER concluded this part of the program by introducing our newest honorary member, LEA MARQUEZ PETERSON of the Tucson Hispanic Chamber. Welcome LEA!
Announcements were plentiful at this week’s meeting. JOE NEVIN reminded us of the Fall Closet Cleaning for Goodwill on November 19th. JENNIFER HOFFMAN sought additional recruits for the upcoming marathon. MATT BLAIR shared his musical talent and updated us on the San Carlos trip. Blue Badge presentations for three members was next. MARK IRVIN presented LINDA WOJTOWICZ, BOBBY LARSON presented TOM NEUSTEDTER and CHUCK SAWYER presented PAUL HALLUMS each their blue badge. Congratulations!
ELLIE PATTERSON, GARY HIRSCH, STEVE PICKERING and JIM LUBINSKI spoke about this year’s El Tour de Tucson and our club’s role. DAVE GALLAHER made the final announcement sharing the timeline and process for electing the new Board Members. The candidates are; ALLYN BULZOMI, MIKE ORCUTT, BILL MOORE, BRUCE TUNZE, MIKE DEVRIES and YVONNE ERVIN.
YVONNE ERVIN began the presentation sharing many great details about Tucson’s Inaugural Jazz Festival. The 13 day event will conclude with Burt Bacharach. Tickets and information available at www.TucsonJazzFestival.org. The presentation concluded with the music of Jeff Haskell and Jason Carder.
If you missed Wednesday’s meeting, you missed an incredible performance from Jazz greats Jeff Haskell and Jason Carder. Thank you Yvonne Ervin for bringing them to our Club meeting!
As you know, we have three very important events coming up before the end of the year. The first is our Ride to End Polio on November 22nd. Thanks to all of our riders and special thanks to Ellie Patterson and Gary Hirsch for coordinating these efforts. A huge shout out to all of our Club members who stepped up big time to sponsor our riders - thank you! One of our members said it best, "I am proud to be a Rotarian. The exceptionally generous members are what make the Rotary Club of Tucson so special."
Next up is our Annual San Carlos trip December 5th - 8th. Thank you to all who will be going on the trip. And again, a big "thank you" to all who have generously made donations so that 530 kids from three different schools will receive Christmas presents who might not receive anything else. We are also working on helping the San Carlos Club in their efforts to build an athletic/soccer field.
Our third project before the end of the year is our Annual Salvation Army Bell Ringing event on December 13th. We currently have 22 people signed up to volunteer for this one day event and we only need another 96 volunteers.
Thank you for all you do in sharing your time, talents and resources and putting service above self! By the way, once you have read your monthly Rotarian magazine, please bring it to our lunch meeting. It would be nice to give them to our guests and prospective new members.
I look forward to seeing all of your smiling faces on Wednesday, hopefully with a guest.
It's that time again to sign up for our annual Bell Ringing. This tradition goes back to 1969 when former President George Hawke partnered with the Salvation Army. This year we again need 114 Rotarians, relatives and friends to man the 14 kettles at 12 stores. Last December we raised $7,500. Included in that total was $1,500 which was comprised of 15 Rotary members' businesses donations of $100 a piece to sponsor a kettle. We remind you that the money raised last year bought over $70,000 worth of food for needy Tucsonans. The Salvation Army's Commissioner receives a salary of only $13,000 per year (plus housing) for managing this $2 billion organization. 96% of donated dollars goes to the cause.
Please sign up on Clubrunner to Ring those bells. If you and/or your business would like to sponsor one of the 14 kettles, please contact Pat Lennan at 742-1999; Email: dplennan@q.com or Alana Vicki at 545-0500; Email: avick@ludwigklewer.com.
This is one of the most rewarding experiences you will encounter. Just ask John Cousins who dresses in an authentic Santa Claus outfit and the dozens of other Rotarians who have "Rung the Bells" many, many times.
An Air Force/Air National Guard Veteran with over 26 years of service, Bob retired in 2007. During his military career, he served as an Aircrew Survival Training Instructor, Small Arms Marksmanship Instructor, Logistics Wing Plans Specialist and First Sergeant. He also served on the National Guard Counterdrug Program concurrently with his last nine years of military service in the capacity of Cargo Inspection, Counterdrug Intelligence and as the Non Commissioned Officer in Charge of the Southern Arizona office of Drug Demand Reduction for the Arizona National Guard Joint Counter Narco-Terrorism Task Force (JCNTF).
We started the meeting with LINDA WOJTOWICZ leading us in the Pledge and Song. (If you pronounce LINDA’s last name three times in succession, you’ll get it!) BOBBY LARSON introduced guests and visitors. We had several visiting Rotarians attending who are from Madison, WI. They were kind enough to present us with their cub banner. Thanks!
Happy Birthdays go to PETER AKMAJIAN, DAVID DIAMOND and JACK MEREK. While working the Car Show serving beer, PETER informed us he carded several persons who were clearly under the legal age, only to find most over the age of 30! I guess we’re all getting a little older… And JACK, who’s been in Rotary for over 37 years, shared that PRESIDENT MARY made him promise not to tell any lawyer jokes from the podium.
Speaking of lawyers, in addition to PETER and DAVID, we had a very interesting and informative presentation from retired Chief Justice of the AZ Supreme Court, Stanley G. Feldman. Justice Feldman, with 20-years experience on the Supreme Court, provided his insight regarding the pros and cons of the death penalty. Based upon the number of questions he received following his presentation, I’d say his topic was of interest to many in our club.
In closing, if you’re planning to make the trip to San Carlos, please sign-up in the near future. The planning team needs to know who is attending so they can begin finalizing the arrangements. And if you are not planning to make the trip, the club is still accepting donations!
Attention all runners!!! Rotary Club of Tucson has had a relay team in the Tucson Marathon for many years. I am looking for participants for this year's Marathon which takes place on Sunday, December 7th. The legs of the relay range from 5.9-7.3 miles ... I will take the last/longest leg... If you are interested, please contact so I can move forward with registration! Thank you.
Yvonne Ervin is the Executive Director of the Tucson Jazz Festival and is also Executive Director of the Western Jazz Presenters Network and editor of Hot House magazine in NYC. She has worked as a jazz journalist in print and radio for more than 30 years, interviewing more than 150 jazz legends. She was the founding executive director of the Tucson Jazz Society and marketing director for the Tucson Symphony Orchestra. She organized the Primavera Jazz Fest, the world’s longest-running women’s jazz festival and produced the first Jazz on the Border: The Mingus Project, a week-long festival in Nogales Arizona and Sonora. Most recently, Yvonne was the Development Director for the Confluencenter for Creative Inquiry at the UA and she is President of the Tucson Jazz Music Foundation which supports the Tucson Jazz Institute Ellington Band.
Sergeant At Arms, David Pashkow, is looking for a few volunteers to be on a permanent list to assist with selling raffle tickets before the meeting. These members would be notified by email prior to the meeting to arrive a few minutes early and sell tickets as attendees walk in the door. Raffles usually happen every other week or twice in a month. If you are interested in assisting, please contact David at 429-0496 or email at dapco@msn.com.
Also, if you have a business or know of a business that would like to donate raffle items, please contact David as well. Thank you.
Please see the below message from PDG Randy Brooks:
We (Districts 5500, 5510 and 5490) are having a wonderful Tri-District Foundation day in Tempe, Arizona at the Sheraton Airport (1600 S. 52nd Street), November 8, 2014 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. At this event, we will hear from, John Osterlund, General Manager, The Rotary Foundation, Aaron Zeichner of the Gates Foundation, all three district foundation chairs and others whom will educate and enlighten us regarding why and how our money is spent at The Rotary Foundation as well as why it is important to fund this wonderful foundation.
This Foundation day is geared for club presidents, President-elects, Club Foundation Chairs, Club Service Project Chairs, and those new to Rotary. There will be three breakout sessions. There will also be “Painting with Maddie". This young woman is a polio survivor and is an inspiration to us all. Carrie Curran, a professional artist, will be doing her best to help us do an acrylic painting that you can take home, or to use as a fundraising auction item. The other two breakout sessions will be facilitated by our own PDG Teree Bergman, who will make the foundation less intimidating for those that are newer to Rotary. At the third breakout, John Osterlund and the Foundation Chairs will discuss updates regarding The Rotary Foundation, funding models and the status of the attempts to eradicate polio. Over lunch we will hear from John Osterlund and Aaron Zeichner with details about the Rotary and Gates Foundation and our partnerships - now and in the future.
You will return from the event inspired, hopeful and educated about the foundation. It is our goal to “Turn your Passion into a Project.”
Please plan to attend. To find information on "Rotary Foundation Day" and "Painting with Maddie", go to thewww.rotaty5510.orgwebsite under Upcoming Events, click on November 8th, and follow the links to register. I look forward to seeing you all there.
Please take care of yourself, be happy and plan to attend this wonderful event.
1,389 people were executed in the US from 1976 through October 2, 2014, primarily by means of lethal injection. Most death penalty cases involve the execution of those convicted of murder, although capital punishment can also be applied for treason, espionage, and other crimes.
The Club is in need of some volunteers to sell raffle tickets before the meetings. This would be a permanent list of raffle ticket sellers. You would be contacted when your services would be needed. Normally there is a raffle held twice a month. Members will arrive early and work with the Sergeant At Arms, David Pashkow and Assistant Sergeant At Arms, Irene Decker to sell tickets. Please email David Pashkow at dapco@msn.com if you are interested in assisting with this task.
What an incredible Car Show and what an outstanding show of volunteers! I've talked to several people who attended the Car Show and every one of them raved about how fun and well-run it was. I loved seeing the sea of blue Rotary shirts and everyone busy doing their part to make it the best Car Show in Southern Arizona. Great events don't just happen; they take time, preparation, leadership, dedication, man-woman power and passion. A huge THANK YOU to Pat Zumbusch for your leadership and for the SLT and TLT for all the man hours you've put in this past year and all our members who made this event one of the signature events in Tucson. Enjoy your week off and looking forward to seeing all of you Wednesday the 29th for our next meeting. Thank you and consider inviting a friend.
Well, we’re almost there! Three more days and we’ll be sponsoring another hugely successful Tucson Classics Car Show. Also three more days for you, your family and friends to buy tickets, so if you haven’t already, please ask. And thanks to all of you who have bought and sold tickets for this wonderful event!
YVONNE ERVIN introduced visitors and guests. YVONNE, you may have heard this before, but you have what I like to call a “radio voice”.
Happy Birthday shout-out to VICKIE JACOBS, MARSHALL DENNINGTON and RICK ROSE! MARSHALL spent a couple of minutes sharing his recent experience with the young Rotarian groups and exchange students as they visited beautiful Havasupai. After delighting us with a story about the operatic singing voice of a young Japanese exchange student, MARSHALL suggested that if you haven’t been involved with the exchange student program, please consider doing so. You may find it to be a life-changing experience.
We had a “special” auction item this week, a signature A-10 round that was highly polished and etched with the ASAF logo and an A-10 replica. This is one of only two produced, and CHARLOTTE HARRIS bid $600 for this very rare item. Thanks CHARLOTTE!
Our program for the day was a review of the TCCS by PAT ZUMBUSCH. PAT shared a brief history of the TCCS, which was enlightening for those of us who are relatively new to the Tucson Rotary. It’s impressive to be a part of this club that has, through this one signature event, provided over $600K in support to local Tucson charities. A round of applause goes to the Tucson Rotary and all Tucson Rotary members who support this very worthwhile community event!
I thought I’d start my article this time with a quick public service announcement.
NOTE: The Tucson Classic Car Show is only 1-week away. We still need to sell about 9,000 tickets to exceed last year’s pre-ticket sales number. If we can each sell an additional 10 to 20 tickets, we can have another banner year for ticket sales. Please talk to your friends and family and have them go to www.tucsonclassiccarshow.com to buy tickets online, fast and easy!
OK, now on to the business at hand.
Happy birthday to ALLYN BULZOMI, DAVE GALLAHER and MIKE ORCUTT. All provided us with a small tidbit of wisdom, but perhaps MIKE ORCUTT shared one that I think most of the men in the room can relate to: “My only hope for a smoking hot body is being cremated…” Sad but true.
President MARY MARTIN introduced a new member, DALE BERG, who informed us that he is not yet on any committees. DALE, thanks for the info, I’m sure you’ll be hearing from several of us in the near future! DALE also shared that he is a U of A graduate, served 20-years in the Marine Corp, and has been married to his high school sweetheart for 32-years! DALE, welcome to the Tucson Rotary!
PAT ZUMBUSCH presented the hotel staff with 2 Car Shows tickets each, as a small token of appreciation for all they do for us during our Wednesday meetings. Another great example of Rotarian generosity.
JEFF HEATH spent a few minutes providing us with a review of the recent Rotary trip to the Grand Canyon. It made me wish I was there. I love the GC and hope to go next year with fellow Rotarians!
Our program was presented by Carl Olson, “the bug man” and U of A Entomologist. My take-away from his informative and humorous presentation: Scorpions and spiders not so bad, but stay away from the centipedes!
In closing, I leave you with this quote provided by JEFF HEATH. “Everyone wants to live on the top of the mountain, but remember that all the growth and happiness occurs on the climb to the top!”
Have I told you lately what a remarkable group you are? I am constantly amazed at the level of generosity, service, dedication and commitment you exemplify as Rotarians. I know everyone is working so hard to make our signature event the Tucson Classics Car Show the best ever and to generate the funds needed to help our designated charities. Thank you, thank you! We will have one last "hurrah" next Wednesday making sure we have all of our ducks in order, so please plan on attending and bring any family, friends or associates who you may be enlisting to participate in the show.
After the Car Show on the 18th we will have a break and will be "Dark" on Wednesday the 22nd, so enjoy your day off basking in the knowledge that you did your part to help. Looking forward to seeing you Wednesday. Thank you.
"The 8th Annual Tucson Classics Car Show final preparation is underway. This week's program will be to outline what that entails for the 2014 event on October 18th, as well as review the scope of this magnificent RCoT signature project.
Now that the District Conference is over, we are "ALL HANDS ON DECK" for the most important fundraiser of the year, OUR TUCSON CLASSICS CAR SHOW! With this one day signature event, we have donated $632,828 in net proceeds to local charities over the last 7 years and are on target to donate $100,000 this year to local charities. So many of our members have donated countless hours to make this the best car show in town! As you know, in every successful endeavor, it takes EVERYONE participating. There are many ways to volunteer and all are important. I am proud to say that we have well over 70% participation from our Club, which is outstanding!
I have had many questions regarding "make ups." If you are doing anything for the Club; Car Show stuff, committee meetings, anything pertaining to Rotary, you can use that as a "make up" if you need to miss a weekly lunch meeting. Talk to Dorinna or Shawn if you have questions on how to do this.
I'm sure you received the sample email on ticket sales from Bob Shaff to send to your clients, customers, friends, relatives, etc. It's so easy to send and easy for the recipient to go online and purchase tickets. The email even tells them how to do it and how to put your name on it so you get credit for the sale. I sent it to my list and was pleasantly surprised at how many tickets I was able to sell. It's a great cause, a great show and lots of fun!
Thank you all and looking forward to seeing you next week. Consider bringing a guest.
Rotarians! Yet another fun fine meeting was had! Let’s have a look see…
MIKE ORCUTT hushed our October meeting wild with his opening invocation of “October” by Robert Frost. CLIFF BOWMAN led us in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance and, with the talented Mr. GARY HIRSCH accompanying on the keys, singing proudly “My Country Tis of Thee”. Let’s eat!
At 12:18, PRESDIENT MARY called our attention to the podium!
TOM ANDREWS introduced guests and visiting Rotarians. JIM MURPHY was the sole Birthday celebrant at the head table. Happy Birthday to you sir! PRESIDENT MARY introduced new member KELLY ABBOTT of Rincon Market. Welcome KELLY!
During the DAVID PASHKOW show we heard from MATT BLAIR… “66 days until San Carlos!”. EMERY BARKER (and apparently all the other fine attorneys of our fun fine club) was recognized for being one of the best in the country! Congratulations EMERY et al! ALANA VICK can kiss her Red Badge goodbye! Welcome to Blue Badge land ALANA! BRUCE JACOBS implored us each to “SELL ANOTHER 20 TICKETS!!!!!” PRESIDENT MARY quoted us the timely club policy regarding politics! We also heard from CHARLOTTE HARRIS (RCOTF Fund survey recap) and LINDA WOJTOWICZ (New Member Survey)!
SCOTT VAUGHAN brought us to the program and introduced Dr. Jerry Hogle, Distinguished Professor of English at the University of Arizona. Even more distinguishing about Dr. Hogle was his unbridled joy and enthusiasm with his topic “Downton Abbey: The Power of Historical Fiction”! Fascinating!
PRESIDENT MARY closed right on time with this apropos toast by Geraldine Brooks. “The thing that most attracts me to historical fiction is taking the factual record as far as it is known, using that as a scaffolding, and then letting imagination build the structure that fills in those things we can never find out for sure.”
After 8 weeks of selling, our Club has sold 18,501 Car Show Tickets, against a goal of 30,000.
This weekend, the Tucson Meet Yourself Event takes place from Friday-Sunday, October 10-12. Our ticket sales “booth”, with the 2003 Corvette Prize Car, is at the corner of Pennington and Church. Come on by while you are at the event. Lend a hand to the 20 Club Members who are working a shift.
If every Club member sells an extra 20 tickets, we will make our goal and be able to support our 5 deserving charities the way we intend to.
Be sure to turn in all proceeds, stubs, and unsold tickets (if you still have some) before the Day of the Show. Any unsold tickets not returned will be billed to the member.
Thanks for all you have done so far. Now we just have to FINISH STRONG!!
The RCOT Salvation Army Bell Ringing event will take place on Saturday, December 13, 2014. Please mark your calendars. If you have any questions, please contact Pat Lennan.
The international popularity and success of the British TV-series Downton Abbey has many causes (including its brilliant cast) and many explanations (including our desire to both criticize and live in the world It recreates). But one of them is surely the fact that it strives, often successfully, to be truly historical fiction in the classic sense of the standards set by Sir Walter Scott in the United Kingdom and James Fenimore Cooper of the United States, both in the first half of the nineteenth century. This illustrated talk will look at the most essential and lasting ingredients of genuinely historical fiction stemming from Scott and Cooper, among others, and show how – and to what purposes -- Downton Abbey has used all of them, at one time or another, ever since its debut in 2010. It will also highlight some particular examples (from the seasons so far) of Downton’s fictional characters mixing with actual people in history, some grand and some notorious, and being swept up in both famous and little-known historical events and trends. It is not just the great settings and costumes that put the audience there in Downton Abbey. It is also its immersion in history itself.
What a tremendously successful District Conference! A huge thank you to Tom Andrews and team for putting on one of the best District Conferences. I think we might have had record attendance and I was so pleased to see 55+ of our members join in. Thank you! We completed building 100 prosthetic hands thanks to many of you as well as our Interact youth. Thanks go out to Allyn Bulzomi for coordinating those efforts! Also, thank you Pat Watts and Dave Gallaher for helping with the prosthetic hands project. The only challenge was having Dave and I work together as a team to build a hand. Thank you Ralph Phillips for bailing us out and making us look good!
I also want to thank our new member Kelly Abbott for having her company Rincon Market cater our Hospitality Suite. I reeived so many compliments stating that our suite had the best food! Thank you Bob Shaff for successfully selling Car Show tickets. There are so many of you to thank, so if I've left you out, please know that your efforts did not go unnoticed. THANK YOU!
All in all, it was an amazing Conference and I couldn't have been more proud to be a Rotarian and the president of this remarkable Rotary Club!
The international popularity and success of the British TV-series Downton Abbey has many causes (including its brilliant cast) and many explanations (including our desire to both criticize and live in the world I recreates). But one of them is surely the fact that it strives, often successfully, to be truly historical fiction in the classic sense of the standards set by Sir Walter Scott in the United Kingdom and James Fenimore Cooper of the United States, both in the first half of the nineteenth century. This illustrated talk will look at the most essential and lasting ingredients of genuinely historical fiction stemming from Scott and Cooper, among others, and show how – and to what purposes -- Downton Abbey has used all of them, at one time or another, ever since its debut in 2010. It will also highlight some particular examples (from the seasons so far) of Downton’s fictional characters mixing with actual people in history, some grand and some notorious, and being swept up in both famous and little-known historical events and trends. It is not just the great settings and costumes that put the audience there in Downton Abbey. It is also its immersion in history itself.
Biography
Dr.Jerrold E. (Jerry) Hogle, whose Ph.D. is from Harvard University (where he won the Howard Mumford Jones Thesis Prize), is University Distinguished Professor and Director of Undergraduate Studies and Honors in the University of Arizona’s Department of English. The winner of Guggenheim, Mellon, and other fellowships for research – and recently the Distinguished Scholar Award of the Keats-Shelley Association of America -- he has published extensively (books, essays, and reviews) on English Romantic literature, literary theory, and the many different forms of the Gothic. His books include, among others, Shelley’s Process from the Oxford University Press, The Undergrounds of The Phantom of the Opera from Palgrave Macmillan, and The Cambridge Companion to Gothic Fiction from the Cambridge University Press, which will soon be succeeded by a follow-up volume, The Cambridge Companion to the Modern Gothic. He is also a winner of multiple teaching awards for his outstanding classroom work, advising, and mentoring of students, both undergraduate and graduate. These honors include the University Distinguished Professorship, which he has held since 1996, and the Burlington Northern Foundation Faculty Achievement Award (a national honor) for Excellence in Teaching. He has even held many important positions at the College, University, and State of Arizona levels, including Associate and Acting Dean in the College of Humanities, the elected Chair (and thus chief representative) of the entire University Faculty, the Chair of the Arizona Faculties Council for the state university system, the Chair of the Strategic Planning and Budget Advisory Committee for the U of A, and Vice Provost for Instruction (with central oversight over all aspects of education) in the University’s central administration. Outside the University, he has served as the elected President of the International Gothic Association and on the Executive Committee of the North American Society for Study of Romanticism. At present he is in charge of all the English Department’s undergraduate programs, including the advising, planning, and curriculum connected to them, while he also continues very active teaching and research, even serving as the Faculty Advisor for Persona: The University of Arizona Undergraduate Magazine of Literature and Art. For his services to the Arizona Alumni Association, in which he represented the UA faculty on the National Board, he has received the Honorary Alumnus designation and the Alumni Director’s Award. He lives with his spouse of over forty-four years, Pamela Hogle, here in Tucson, and they are the proud parents of two married daughters who are themselves summa cum laude graduates of the University of Arizona, as well holders of graduate degrees, and now have careers of their own in California and Hawaii.
We are excited to be the host Club for the upcoming District Conference on Friday and Saturday September 26th and 27th. As you know, we will NOT be meeting for our regular lunch meeting on Wednesday the 24th. The replacement meeting will be one of the lunches at the District Conference. In addition to the lunches on Friday and Saturday, our Club will host a "happy hour" in our private Casita on Friday night at 5:30. There is a dinner on Saturday night as well. You can also choose to participate in the many breakout sessions and visit the various booths from the Club's in our District. I would also ask you to consider donating a little time to help assemble some of the prosthetic hands that our Club helped sponsor. It should be a great project that will help many people who need prosthetic hands and a wonderful time getting to know fellow Rotarians.
You can still register for the lunches and dinner till the 23rd. I look forward to seeing all of you at the District Conference and at our next regularly scheduled meeting on October 1st. Please consider bringing a guest. Thank you.
PAT ZUMBUSCH started the program with an Invocation that provided a great laugh as well as best wishes for our friends that are on the Grand Canyon hike.
DALE BERG led us with the pledge and song. ELLIE PATTERSON tickled the ivories as we did our best rendition of America The Beautiful. DOT KRET had the honor of introducing our many visitors which included the Amphi Interact Club as well as Gubernatorial Candidate and Tucson High Grad, Fred Duval.
Birthday wishes to DAVID PASHKOW and new member KATHLEEN HUDSON. KATHLEEN also shared that it has been a banner year in her life which, in addition to joining our club, has been highlighted by her recent engagement.
JIM RONSTADT had the honor of introducing new member PETE MAYER. PETE is actually returning to the club after an extended time away. As a native Tucsonan and U of A Grad, PETE is very happy to see many of his old friends from years ago. In addition to new member introduction, DREW VACTOR presented a blue badge to CHRIS LUDWIG. Congratulations CHRIS!
DREW then was our featured presenter following a humorous introduction by ARNIE JACOBSEN. The humor continued with a “staged” standing ovation. In addition to the laughs, the presentation was quite enlightening as to the Roots of Rotary. DREW shared many great stories and sights from their trip to Chicago which included visits to the Rotary World Headquarters, Room #711, the home of Paul Harris and the Mt. Hope Cemetery Memorial Site. The presentation concluded with a “well deserved” standing ovation for DREW!
This Fall’s District Conference at Hilton El Conquistador promises to be one of the best District Conferences. As you know, the Club meeting is being replaced with the luncheon at the Conference. Immediately after the luncheon on Friday at 1:45 PM, we will have the first session of the service project selected by our own DG Sally Montagne that involves the assembly of prosthetic hands. This is a unique project where we will work in teams of 2-3 people performing the assembly of hands that are distributed around the world to people who have lost their hands by accident. The task is easy and fun and the first session will run from 1:45 PM to 3:15 PM. If you are coming for lunch, please register for an hour of helping with this project. On Saturday, we will have two sessions for hand assembly. The first begins at 10:15 AM and ends at 11:45 AM. The second session begins after Saturday lunch at 2:15 PM to 4:00 PM. We need 30 volunteers per session. Each hand costs $50 and any donations are welcome as we are about $1,500 short of reaching our $5,000 goal. Please register a spot by emailing Co-Chairs Dave Gallaher and Lauren Klase. Those email addresses are: dave@tucsonindustrialrealty.com and lklase@stewartaz.com For more information about the hands project, please refer to their website at www.IN-4.org.
Fun Service Project Scheduled at District Conference 9/26 & 9/27
CLEM LESLIE gave the invocation and it was nice that he opened with a moment of silence as we remember and honor those who were killed during the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001.
We moved into the pledge and song with PETE MAYER taking the vocal lead for the Star Spangled Banner.
Introduction of the guests and birthday announcements followed. Of particular note during this segment was the surprise visit by Larry Watts as he presented his wife, PAT WATTS, with balloons for her birthday.
There were many announcements but since we are closing in on the Car Show I will limit my comments to that subject matter. BOB SHAFF let it be known there are three events coming up this month that would be great opportunities for volunteers to sell car show tickets. All three happen to be on the same weekend. The first is The Great Tucson Beer Festival held at the Kino Veterans Memorial Stadium on September 27; the second event is the Greek Festival that is being held at the Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church on September 25-28 and the final event is Oktoberfest which is being held at The Breakers Water Park on September 26-28. Let’s get out there and sell some tickets!
On to the main event – our two guest speakers. First of all to have two guest speakers was fantastic! Secondly, to have two guest speakers and still finish the program on schedule is even more fantasticer. (I did that on purpose for all you English majors!) . The first speaker; Mr. John Paul Jones III is the Dean of U of A’s College of Social and Behavioral Sciences; also known as “The People’s College”. His College’s motto is “No closed doors and no “no’s”. His goal is 100% student engagement and to that end has students involved in the Mayor’s Commission on Poverty and the Community & School Garden Project. The second speaker, Lydia Breunig, U of A’s Director of Outreach and Special Projects spoke about the Downtown Lecture Series which started in 2013 with lectures on “Happiness”. This series was a huge success, filling the Fox Theater to overflow capacity. The 2014 lecture series will be on “Food” and it’s “Connection with Health, Culture and the Environment”. She filled the Fox Theater last year. Her goal this year is to fill local businesses and businesses outside of Tucson with live and online streaming video. Good luck Lydia!
We had a very good committee meeting yesterday to discuss International Projects in Mexico. Allyn Bulzomi is chairing this committee and it was very beneficial to have our Honorary member, Lea Marquez Peterson, President of the Tucson Hispanic Chamber, as a participant. Lea was able to offer some valuable insight on how to get matching funds from the Mexican government and who to connect with to get things done.
We talked about a project which Matt Blair, Charlotte Harris and Steve Pickering are working on involving the building of an athletic field in San Carlos. Currently the kids have just a dirt field with huge boulders and rocks strewn over it. The Rotary Club in San Carlos will provide all of the labor and we will be applying for a District Grant to help build this athletic field. Matt Blair and Michelle Felix are also working on our Annual San Carlos project and trip coming up December 5th - 8th. We are reserving a luxury coach which can accommodate up to 54 people and we are hoping we can pack it out. We will be visiting three schools and helping to provide Christmas presents to hundreds of kids who would not have anything without our help. Please talk to Matt and Michelle on how you can participate and attend.
It is very exciting to see all of the great things our Club is doing and participating in to help others as we continue our Mission of Service Above Self. Thank you for being such amazing Rotarians! I look forward to seeing all of you on Wednesday and please consider bringing a guest.
Some members of our Rotary Club know that Drew is a recovering restaurateur, having run a 5 Star/5 Diamond restaurant called The Tack Room for many years. In 2000, he retired to a world of International travel as a guest lecturer on cruise ships for 6 years. As a high ranking SCUBA Instructor, he and his wife, Honorary Rotarian Kandie Vactor, have led exotic live-aboard dive boat trips around the world for 15 years while doing web site design as the Owner/Webmaster of 5 Star Web Design. He created the Rotary Club of Tucson's original website and the original website for our Tucson Classics Car Show.
Chef Salad ~ Field Greens Topped with Smoked Turkey, Ham, Swiss and Cheddar Cheese, Hard Boiled Egg, Roma Tomatoes, Bacon Bits and Avocado, DoubleTree Chocolate Chip Cookies served Family Style, Coffee, Decaf or Iced Tea.
Vegetarian Option if reserved by Friday 2:00 p.m. ~ Vegetarian Salad ~ Salad served with Egg, Black Beans, Corn and Pasta Salad.
Fresh Fruit if reserved by Friday 2:00 p.m. Gluten Free Meals available by Friday 2:00 p.m.
The Rotary Club of Tucson is in full swing and we are all in "service" mode! The Car Show is just a little over a month away and we have many opportunities to sell tickets at major events. Our next major event is the District Conference September 26th and 27th at the Hilton El Conquistador. We are the host Club and our member, Sally Montagne, is the District Governor, so our show of support is even more important. Tom Andrews and his committee have done an excellent job of booking some terrific speakers, breakout sessions and of course the prosthetic hand project, which our Club helped sponsor 50 hands. We are still in need of some volunteers to "man" and coordinate our Club Booth which will feature our signature fundraiser, The Tucson Classics Car Show. I know many of you are busy that weekend selling tickets at the Greek Festival and other events, but if you can help work a couple of hours for a shift or two Friday or Saturday, it would be greatly appreciated. Please see Tom Andrews if you are able to help.
As I mentioned at Wednesday's meeting, we will NOT be meeting on September 24th, so you can attend the District Conference lunch on the 26th at 11:30. This will be a replacement meeting for September 24th. If you have not registered yet, please register for the lunch and any of the other sessions at the Conference. Keep in mind that you will pay for the lunch online, but the Club will reimburse you for that meal on your October dues statement.
The other big projects we are working on is the Ride to End Polio at the El Tour De Tucson and thank you Ralph for sponsoring John Cousins on that ride. We have many Club members riding and that is great because our goal this year is FOUR MILLION!
Thank you for being such great Rotarians and being a part of our REMARKABLE CLUB! I look forward to seeing all of you on Wednesday and consider bringing a guest.
JIM RONSTADT started us off with a very thoughtful Invocation leaving many of us to feel very thankful that the current troubles in the world have not come to our country.
CLIFF BOWMAN led us with the pledge of allegiance and GARY HIRSCH played piano while we all tried to keep up with our rendition of YOU’RE A GRAND OLD FLAG. I'm glad there were no mics around to record my singing! We had a number of visitors today including the President of the Pantano Rotary Club, LAUREN KLASE; welcome LAUREN!
A special happy birthday wish to NANCY PURDIN and RALPH PHILLIPS. Today NANCY shared that not only were she and RALPH born on the same day but also the same year! She claimed to be his twin (wink wink). RALPH added that they were long lost twins from another mother and father! Nancy gave a generous donation to the Bolivia Project and Ralph did the same but to JOHN COUSIN's cause.
Next up was DON ROLLINGS who introduced as he called him, "a giant of a man whose nickname is “Patrone Grande”, SCHUYLER LININGER!! SCHUY said it was a "pleasure to be here today, but it's a pleasure to be anywhere ANY DAY!", and proceeded to give an insightful history of the Tucson Rotary Club. CHARLOTTE HARRIS presented MICHELLE FELIX with her blue badge. Congratulations, MICHELLE!
Our guest speaker was Jennie Godwin who was the voice on 92.9 The Mountain before becoming the Executive Director of the Fund for Civility, Respect, and Understanding for "Mental Health Safe Space". She gave a presentation on mental illness and what is being done within her organization to remove the stigma surrounding it. Many people feel comfortable discussing physical illness but not mental illness even though it impacts 20% of the US population! She drove home that education is the key to limiting this stigma and passed out helpful pocket guides and wallet cards with emergency contact information. Jennie commented that she was nervous to get up and speak to us but I'm sure we all agree that she did a fantastic job!
JP Jones III (Ph.D. Ohio State University) is a Professor of Geography and Development and Dean of the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences at the University of Arizona.
Since Jones was appointed Dean of the UA's College of Social and Behavioral Sciences in 2010, he has led the twenty-three schools, departments, research units, and outreach centers in the college with keen attention to the importance of innovation and diversity in examining the human experience. SBS - "The People College" - explores human histories, ideas, communities, cultures, and relationships as part of the process of discovery, with strategic priorities around health, environment, technology, and global impact and regional roots.
When working the Car Show, selling Car Show tickets, or for any community service activity, all Rotarians are required to wear a Community Service Shirt. All new members and those that do not have a community shirt, please submit requests to Jon Wang via telephone 520-360-1050 or email Jon at specialopsdoc@comcast.net. Thank you.
Arrived a little late just as ALANA VICK led us in the pledge and song, with GARY HIRSCH accompanying on the piano. As usual, my vocals were less than stellar…
CHRIS EDWARDS once again announced guests and visitors. In CHRIS’S own words “I don’t know why they keep asking me.” I can tell you why CHRIS, you do a great job pronouncing the difficult names!
A Happy Birthday shout-out goes to STEVE BORDEN (8/24) and CONRAD PLIMPTON (8/26). STEVE informed us that, after many years in San Rafael, CA he is now “a desert freak.” I’m thinking that STEVE likes living in Tucson much better than Northern California. Steve donated $100 to the San Carlos Project. After a few well chosen words, CONRAD offered $200 to Paul Harris, however he then threw down the gauntlet and agreed to donate $500 if he had a match from another ROTARIAN. Maybe to his surprise, he had not one but two takers agree to match his $500, so I think it was a good day for Paul Harris donations!
Congratulations are in order for three new members, EVAN MANNING, KATHLEEN HUDSON and BILL FETZER. EVAN’S sponsor, TOM STRASBURG, informed us that EVAN was perhaps the youngest member in the club. I’m not so sure about that, KATHLEEN looked just as young to me! And while BILL may be a little older, he’s a fellow engineer, and as such, I’m sure I can overlook his being a Lion and not a Wild Cat.
There were many announcements, too numerous to cover here. However, since we’re all in the midst of preparing for the TCCS, I would like to point out that GARY SCHEER received a Happy Jackson for attending the 23rd Annual Run to Copper Country Car Show in Silver City, NM, where his automobile won the Top Car Award!
Finally, we had an interesting and informative program delivered by Gina Hansen from the local Humane Society. Gina shared info regarding the Pet Therapy and Visitation Program. This wonderful program provided pet visitations to over 10,000 people last year, and has already made over 30,000 visitations in 2014. We commend Gina and her team for helping bring happiness into the life of others!
I found this article that Past President Marianne wrote May 30th 2011 and thought it would be good to reprint. I agree that there is confusion regarding “Foundation donations” so thought this might be good timing with the start of a new year to re-post this article. I updated her list of charitable organizations we work with. Thank you, Marianne for allowing me to share this with our membership.
I look forward to seeing all of you Wednesday and remember to bring a guest. Thank you.
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Continually confusing to our general membership seems to be the difference in “Foundation” donations.
Our Rotary Club of Tucson Foundation is the non-profit entity for our club. All donations to our local projects must travel through our Foundation to be tax deductible, i.e. San Carlos Project, Latrine Project in Bolivia, Reading Seed (even though they are their own non-profit entity, we want to track how much our members donate), scholarships, and any other grant our club receives. When donating to any of these, you should make your check out to Rotary Club of Tucson Foundation, or RCT Foundation and send/deliver to our Rotary Club office.
The Rotary Foundation (TRF) is the “other Foundation”. This Rotary International entity collects donations for Paul Harris Fellow, Polio, and Annual Programs Fund (which includes Every Rotarian Every Year). Checks to this foundation should be made out to The Rotary Foundation (TRF). All your donations to Rotary International should also be sent/delivered to our Rotary Office for proper recording and tracking. Another option with Rotary International donations is to donate directly on line at www.rotary.org. Your first visit will require 24 hours to obtain a password confirmation, then you will have full access to donate, review your donation history, make donations, and read about various projects.
Remember, if you request to be billed instead of writing a check right then, we do not transfer those funds to the proper entity until payment is received. Considering that we bill quarterly (on the first of January, April, July and October) and that for whatever reason you might want to have it recorded right away, a check written at the time would be much faster. Always make sure that you make a notation on your check designating where you want your donation to go, i.e., Paul Harris Fellow, San Carlos Project, etc. If the donations are for two different foundations, you should write separate checks. If you write one check for dues including any of the above Foundation projects, the money you donate will be transferred to the proper entity.
Mental Health Safe Space:Know the Facts • Learn the Signs • Provide Help
Mental Health Safe Space is a collaborative campaign designed to educate the community about mental illness to help eliminate fear and stigma while building compassion and greater understanding. The 60-90 minute trainings leave attendees with a better knowledge of mental illness, ways to identify signs of mental illness and practical skills for support in non-crisis and crisis situations when mental illness is involved. The goal of the project is to create a “Stigma Free Zone/s” and build a more educated and compassionate community to prevent discrimination and misunderstanding, and to improve public safety.
There are still a couple positions needed to be filled for the District Conference in September as follows:
1. A person to act as my assistant (Assistant Conference Chair!) during the conference. They would be the primary "go-between" between me and Sally and the rest of the conference committee, and the Hotel. That person would have to be there pretty much throughout the event (Friday morning, Sept 26 through Saturday evening, Sept 27, and will need to become knowledgeable about the event, the schedule, the facilities, etc. They would probably be able to attend many of the events and presentations, but would have a radio, and would be sort of "on call" to handle minor problems or issues with the Hotel. Also:
2. A person to help with the Prosthetic Hands project. That person would be our primary "go-between" for "us-the conference committee" and the prosthetic hands organization, and would determine what facilities are needed to conduct the assembly of hands, help coordinate the set-up, help recruit conference attendees to work on the project, etc. They would not actually run the assembly process, as Cany Pierce, the "Prosthetic Hand Person" will be doing that, but they would be that person's Rotarian Assistant.
If you are interested in assisting with either of the above positions, please contact Tom Andrews at 520-490-5692 or email at trandrews@aol.com.
The meeting began with five boosters shaking hands and winning smiles as the Rotarians and guests entered. Another contingent of Committee heads were full- on recruiters, swooping in on unsuspecting but willing contributors and volunteers. A comment often heard as people were being seated was “What just happened, and what did I commit to?
The tables were laden with Silent Auction donations for the upcoming Car Show. Surely someone has an available vacation home in a beautiful (and safe) part of Mexico. Annual vacations are in full swing shown by the available seats and empty tables. For the more sensitive Speakers might be a good idea to fill the tables in front first. The Invocation, led by TED KIRACOFE and the Pledge and Song led by PATRICIA WATTS and pianist ELLIE PATTERSON were gratefully over before anyone joined me at my table to help either drown out or harmonize my rendition of “My Country Tis of Thee”. Please don’t forget the Scholarship cups; we collected $181 last week. (Don’t want to hear any clinking change).
CHARLIE MEAKER introduced the many distinguished guests and visiting Rotarians, among who were four distinguished prospective Rotarians and Rotary Scholar Arthur Platt. Their were numerous raffle items where the chosen tickets seemed to be missing in action until the” Rowdy Table” started banging the table and experienced a tremendous streak of luck.
Happy Birthday to both SUZANNE LAWDER (8/14) and SID HIRSH (8/22) each gave their thanks to the club for the recognition and fulfilling experience. SID, a young 84, and a lovely spouse Marsha who celebrated their 62nd year of wedded bliss, reminded us of his business address, business model, shameful but allowable advertising, and most importantly his 100% attendance record with the Club.
The Announcements were offered by Lauren Smith Klase - Pres. of Rotary Club of Pantano about their annual “G I Jubilee on 8/23 at the JCC, ALLYN BULZOMI about our Rotary Service Project, TOM ANDREWS about the Bolivia Latrine Project, and Duke Duncan about the Nogales Wheel Chair Project, which through the ingenuity and generosity of volunteers and our own club’s initial investment, has grown to include many other vital programs for disabled individuals. A wonderful program was offered by PAT ZUMBUSCH entitled “Social Security; History, Myths, and Strategies”, and we adjourned at 1:15 with the Toast- “The Social Security program plays an important part in providing for families, children, and older persons in times of stress. But it cannot remain static. Changes in our population, in our working habits, and in our standard of living require constant revision.” John F Kennedy, 6/20/61.
And now, for the rest of the story…On August 15th, I received an email from Mark Irvin who received an email from someone at Tucson Orthopaedic Institute looking for help for a gentleman in Mexico whose legs had been amputated. She asked if Mark knew of any organization that might help. Mark forwarded the email to me and no offense to Mark, but my first reaction was, “who is this and how in the world can we help?” I was talking to my husband about it and he said that he had just toured the Nogales Wheelchair Factory, the same factory that our Rotary Club helped start and he told me that they also make prosthetic limbs. I emailed Jim Lubinski and he checked, and sure enough they do. Now the Nogales Wheelchair Factory is meeting with Rigoberto next week to see how they can help him get prosthetic legs! While all this was going on, Jim received a message from Duke Duncan requesting time to give our Club an update on the Nogales Wheelchair Factory. Thank you Duke for the update and for responding so quickly to help this man in need!
It’s exciting to see all the amazing things that our Rotary Club is doing and I thank each and every one of you for your dedication and commitment to making a better community and world through our “service above self” attitude. I look forward to seeing all of you next week and please consider bringing a guest. Thank you.
Gina Hansen will be discussing the Pet Therapy & Visitation Program, which will include the Human Animal Bond, testing, training, what kind of animal personalities we are looking for benefits of the program and talk about where the therapy animals visit in our community. We will also have some information about volunteering with HSSA.
If you miss attending a weekly Rotary meeting, the Rotary Office will send you a “We Missed You At Rotary” email letting you know we did not receive your name on the blue attendance sheets. In this email, we also encourage you to do a “Make Up” for that missed meeting. Make ups can be accomplished in many different ways: by attending another Rotary Club’s meeting, any Rotary Committee meeting, a Rotary charitable function, a Rotary event, or by making up online with eClubOne found on our home page at www.tucsonrotary.org. Simply turn in a makeup card to the Rotary office, or send an email to rotary@tucsonrotary.org with the date of the missed meeting, along with the date and name of the makeup event. REMEMBER: In order for a Makeup to be accepted, it has to be 14 days before or 14 days after a missed meeting, no exceptions.
Please let the Rotary Office know if you have any questions about Makeups. Thank you.
At last week's meeting, Doug Woodard, District RLI Coordinator informed the membership of the upcoming sessions for 2014-15 and how our club needs to have more attendance this year. All Rotarians are encouraged to enroll in the Rotary Leadership Institute. RLI simply is a way for members to deepen their understanding of rotary and through new insights and ideas --- energize and strengthen their club. You will find all the RLI information by going to the District 5500 website or http://rlifiles.com. The registration form is on the District 5500 website. Questions can be directed to Newt Johnson, Registrar at redsportscar@earthlink.net or Doug Woodard, RLI Coordinator at dwoodardaz@comcast.net.
Many thanks, Your RLI Team:
Doug Woodard, District RLI Coordinator
Julie Brinks, Publicity and Events Coordinator
Newt Johnson, Finance, Data Management and Registrar
It is exciting being a part of a Club that does so much! Next week Tom Andrews is going to give us a brief presentation on our Bolivia Latrine project and Duke Duncan will be giving us an update on the Nogales Wheel Chair project.
Tom Andrews and his committee are working hard on putting together an awesome District Conference, so if you haven't registered yet, please do so. There will be great speakers, breakout sessions and the prosthetic hand works project. Remember that we will be dark on Wednesday September 24th, so you can attend the kick off lunch of the District Conference on September 26th as your replacement meeting. You can sign up for one or all of the various sessions. To Register for the conference, go to: www.d55002014fallconference.eventbrite.com.
Please keep Monte Clausen and his family in your thoughts and prayers as they mourn the loss of their son, Clint Clausen.
Thank you and I look forward to seeing all of you Wednesday and remember to bring a guest.
My meeting started with greetings from five smiling faces in the greeting line. I noticed more than a couple Red Badges in the greeting line, always good to meet new Rotarians!
The meeting started on a somber note. Fellow Rotarian MONTE CLAUSEN’S son, Clint, passed away unexpectedly. A moment of silence was held in honor of MONTE, Clint and their loved ones. I’m sure I speak for all Rotarians when I say our thoughts and prayers are with MONTE and his family during this most difficult of time.
Before starting my lunch of salad, lemon chicken and broccoli (my fav!), we were lead by CLIFF BOWMAN in a moving rendition of “Battle Hymn of the Republic”, one of my favorite songs! Assisting him on piano was GARY HIRSCH. I always forget to thank GARY (or whoever is playing piano) for helping cover up my poor singing voice, so let me use this opportunity to say “Thanks!”
CAM MOORE (who evidently had a new haircut(?) high and tight) introduced us to guests and visiting Rotarians, including Maria Gadd, an exchange student who is visiting from Finland. Good luck Maria, learn and enjoy while here in Tucson!
A Happy Birthday shout-out goes to HUGH THOMPSON and ALANA VICK. HUGH shared some thoughts with us about his Rotarian experiences while traveling abroad, and ended with this excellent comment: “Service is nothing more than a gift of Love, and Love is all that matters.” Well said! On a personal note, ALANA shared that she is quickly closing in on her final two weeks of “life in my twenties.” So she’s decided that, in the Chinese tradition, she is going to spend another year at 29!
We are honored to have two Paul Harris presentations, EMERY BARKER and SUZANNE LAWDER, along with two new members introduced, BRUCE RICHARDSON and BILL MESCH. Congratulations to all!
Our program was a presentation of TPD SWAT by Captain JT Turner. It was an interesting presentation, but perhaps the best part was when Captain Turner recognized fellow officer (retired) and Rotarian FRANK ZUNNO.
I’m sure I’m forgetting someone or something, but already running a little too long. See you all next week! ;)
With 8,000 or more new people each day qualifying for Social Security benefit payments, this Federal program impacts more than 63 million Americans. Financially speaking, the impact of this benefit is large but, unfortunately, the knowledge or comfort most people have about Social Security is rudimentary at best and confusion reigns.
The talk is to cover in executive summary, but key highlight form, the following areas;
1. A Brief History Recap of Social Security
2. How Payments Are Actually Calculated
3. Actions That People Commonly Do Wrong / Misunderstand
4. Some Strategy Examples for Optimizing Social Security
Our Finland Exchange Student, Maria Gadd arrived in Tucson and was warmly greeted by some of our Rotarians. Maria will be staying with host family, Allen and Michelle Kinnison. They will all be introduced at next weeks meeting. Welcome Maria!!!
This editor might as well have taken notes in “chicken-scratch” using invisible ink in the margins of the pages of the Joys of Getting Older shared by Don Shropshire during his birthday book report… my glasses are apparently useless.
PRESIDENT MARY MARTIN opened the meeting timely. Susan Moore Vault invocated, Tom Neustedter, accompanied by the talented Gary Hirsch on the keys, led us in the Pledge of Allegiance and “God Bless America”!
Guest s and visitors were brought to us by the vivacious Jeff Ronstadt who wore apparently useful glasses.
Happy Birthday to Don, Rita Marshall, and our own District Governor Sally Montagne.
David Pashkow did his thing as Rotary Chief Master Sergeant-at-Arms (RCSgt-a-A).
President Mary showed us her light up Rotary scarf. Since I was looking down trying to take notes mysteriously, I imagined that it was a scarf that lights up. I believe that it was actually a “Light Up Rotary” themed scarf.
We heard from French Exchange Student Melodie Galvez and Carol Clark, the Executive Director of Casa de la Luz.
Pat Zumbusch and Bob Shaff brought us the official launch of the 2014 Tucson Classics Car Show!!! The presentation was complete with benchmark stats, team captain introductions, and mannequin-sales-on-every-street-corner demonstration video.
District Governor Sally, introduced by Jim Lubinski, shared her Official Visit Talk with us. I took sparse-to-no notes, listening to the amazing statistics and enthralled to realize the deep involvement of this rotary club in fascinating continental and international projects. Truly inspiring! Thank you Governor.
To our District Governor, President Mary, on behalf of the club, committed $2,500 towards the production of fifty prosthetic hands for land mine victims. Wow!!!!!
The meeting was adjourned with this toast…
“Service in the Rotarian sense is a mental process. It is an attitude of mind which relates persons and things with action.Thoughtfulness of others is in reality the basis of Rotary service.” – Frank L Mulholland, 1914-1915 Rotary President
I am so excited that our Club is able to help fund the prosthetic hand project at the District Conference September 26th - 28th. With our donation, we will be able to construct 50 prosthetic hands. I hope many of you will be able to come to the conference and be a part of this amazing opportunity to work on this project to help those who have lost hands to land mines or deformities. If this isn't enough to compel you to attend our District Conference, here are some brief bios of four of the keynote speakers.
Geeta Manek – “Mama Hurricane” - Geeta Manek is a Rotarian from District 9200, comprising of Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Ethiopia and Eritrea. South Sudan has also recently joined the region. A Major Donor, Geeta is passionate about serving her community. Her hard work has seen her rise up the ranks to being elected to serve as the District's first ever woman Governor, for the Rotary year 2012-2013. Her goal is to increase women membership to at least 40%, as she feels women are usually closer to the communities.
John Osterlund – General Manager & Chief Development Officer, Rotary Club of Evanston Lighthouse. John Osterlund oversees the fundraising operations of The Rotary Foundation.
Monica Kinyua - Peace Consultant, Conflict Analysis and Resolution – Specialties: Children Peace Programs, Life Skills Facilitation Workshop and Capacity Building.
Larry Sundram, District Governor - Larry Sundram, is past President of the Vista Rotary Club. He is a multiple Paul Harris fellow, a Major Donor, a Benefactor of the Rotary Foundation, a Bequest Society member - Level 6 and a member of the Arch Klumph Society. Larry emigrated to the U.S. from India when he was 20. After a stint in the USMC, worked in insurance and financial services and was President of Prudential Property and Casualty Company, an insurance company with $4 billion in assets, 2 billion in revenue and 6,500 employees.
You can register for the District Conference now at:
Captain JT Turner of the Tucson Police Department’s Specialized Response Division will provide an overview of the Department’s Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) Team. He will discuss the unit’s mission and the types and frequency of calls that the team responds to. He will explain some of the tools and tactics used by the team and the philosophy and history behind the creation and use of SWAT teams in law enforcement. Tools and equipment utilized by the Tucson SWAT Team will be on display and members of the team will be available to explain the tools and equipment and answer questions.
Member Ticket Sales begin today for the 8th Annual Tucson Classics Car Show…the BEST Car Show in Southern Arizona!!
We offer ticket buyers a chance to win one of 5 great prizes: a 2003 Corvette Convertible – 50th Anniversary Edition or $15,000 cash, a $2,000 set of furniture, a Mini Motorbike, a 50” LG Flat Screen TV, and a $500 set of tires.
Proceeds from our ticket sales go to support the 5 local charities that our Club selected earlier in the year: Reading Seed, Casa de la Luz Hospice Foundation, Carondelet St. Joseph’s Hospital, Tucson Youth Development, and Imago Dei Middle School.
So, there are three great reasons to buy a Car Show ticket:
For one adult admission (kids under 18 are free) to the best car show in Southern Arizona
For a chance to win one of the 5 Great Prizes, including a 2003 Corvette Convertible
To support our 5 deserving charities – Reading Seed and other local charities
$5 ticket, 5 great prizes, 5 deserving charities!!!
Our goal this year is to sell 30,000 Car Show tickets prior to the day of the Show. This is no small task, but these 5 charities and our community are in great need of our support.
We need every Club Member to do their part by…
selling your personal tickets (we need every member to sell their 50 personal tickets)
selling tickets at the several community events scheduled in September and October (call Jerry Harris to sign up)
selling tickets ONLINE (contact your Team Captain for helpful ideas)
identifying non-profits or businesses who will sell tickets for us, earning $2 for every ticket they sell (call Bobby Larson for tickets, the agreements, and support)
asking businesses you frequent to donate items to the Silent Auction at our Car Show Friday Night Dinner (Silent Auction proceeds go right to our Car Show “bottom line”, and will count as ticket sales for each member and their team)
Each Club member has been assigned to one of 10 Ticket Sales Teams, headed by a Team Captain and Co-Captain. Every Club member should have already received a package of personal tickets to sell, along with tips and ideas on how best to sell tickets. Your Team Captain and Co-Captain are there to help each member find the best way to sell his or her personal tickets.
There are 10 weeks between now and the Car Show on Saturday, October 18th!! Let’s get off to a fast start!!
To get us off to that “Fast Start” I ask every RCOT member to go to www.RotaryTCCS.com TODAY and to buy 4 Car Show tickets for $20 ONLINE TODAY!!!
Member Ticket Sales Begin for the 8th Annual Tucson Classics Car Show
Sally is an attorney who practiced law in Washington, DC for over 40 years and is a graduate of Vassar College and Georgetown Law School. Her primary fields of practice were criminal defense law and human rights law. She has taught law, trial practice and forensic law in many places including George Washington University and the National Institute of Trial Advocacy, and the DC Police Academy. In addition Sally has worked in the US Senate, on two White House staffs, in private law practice in Washington, DC and is retired from the Washington, DC Public Defender Service. She has also taught skiing as a professionally certified ski instructor.
I'm a month into my presidency and am loving it! I am grateful for the kind words of encouragement and even the critiques which have been done in a thoughtful and gracious way. I am learning that there is a lot to leading this great Club and appreciate all the wise council and shared experiences. I am especially grateful for my awesome board of directors and all the help that Dorinna and Shawn provide in making our club run smoothly.
August is Rotary Membership month and what a great way to kick things off with our District Governor, Sally Montagne, as our first speaker of the month. Sally has a rich Rotary history and I know she will inspire and encourage us.
A couple of RI's goals for membership this year are to increase our net membership growth by 3%, increase retention by 3% and increase our younger and under represented by 2%. I am very hopeful we will be able to achieve and exceed these goals, and I'm counting on each of you to help by inviting potential new members, sharing your positive Rotary experiences with others in person and through social media, and by getting engaged in our Club activities.
I was remiss in thanking Steve Pickering at Wednesday's meeting for bringing banners from Kalispell Montana and Newport, Oregon - thank you Steve!
Please remember to register for the upcoming District Conference September 26th - 28th. Talk to Tom Andrews if you would like to stay overnight and book a room at the conference.
Thank you and I look forward to seeing you at Wednesday's meeting.
PRESIDENT MARY opened the meeting with a moment of silence for BEN STOREK, a member of our club since November 1986 who recently passed away on July 19th. No arrangements for memorial services have been made yet.
PAULINE HECHLER gave the invocation. ROBYN FREY led the pledge and song with GARY HIRSCH on the piano.
BOBBY LARSON introduced guests and visiting Rotarians. There were a lot of guests attending the meeting.
No birthdays today.
DAVID PASHKOW thanked the sergeants in his absence. DOT KRET, MARY MARTIN, and TERESA LIVERZANI-BAKER all gave Happy Jackson announcements. STACIA DECKER was fined. ROGER HARWELL promoted the scholarship program. It was great to hear how many youth we support at both Pima Community College and the University of Arizona! I will admit to missing a few details through this part of the meeting…. We were having good fellowship at our table…
MARGARET HIGGINS introduced our guest speaker, Neal Cash – the President/CEO of Community Partnership of Southern Arizona (CPSA). Neal’s remarks were fascinating about all the things that CPSA does in our community and the future direction of the agency.
It is with a sad heart that I let you know that member Ben Storek has passed away. We will have a moment of silence at the Wednesday meeting and will ask you to sign some cards for the family. Please keep Jana and the family in your thoughts and prayers.
We are working hard to comply with RI's branding requirements, so if any of you are using the current Rotary logo, which is just the wheel, please discontinue using that and begin using the correct Rotary Logo. If you have any questions, please contact Cindy Godwin and she will assist you in the proper use of the new brand.
I attended the first STAR meeting of my presidency last night and was thrilled to see 18 new members going through the STAR training. Mike Orcutt lead the charge and it was wonderful to see Chuck Sawyer, Ellie Patterson, Joe Nevin, Jan Green, Pat Lennan, Steve Pickering, and Dorinna York assisting with the training. Thank you.
Please see the announcements in this Tucsotarian about the upcoming District Conference September 26th-28th at the Hilton El Conquistador. As you can imagine, to host an event of this magnitude takes volunteers. Tom Andrews who is chairing this year's conference has a list he needs help with. If you see an area that you can lend a hand, please contact him.
I look forward to seeing all of you on Wednesday and please consider inviting a guest. Thank you.
Assistance is needed for the following functions for the District Conference being held on September 26th through the 28th:
1. Brochure person - someone to handle the development of the conference Brochure (collect Ad information, collect letters & photos from District Leaders and guest speakers for publication, collect schedule information from ME, provide same to Printing company for layout and printing (Matt Blair is printing the Document).
2. Money person - someone to oversee general budget, collect $$ from Clubs for Hospitality Suites, Donations, etc., and provide to District Treasurer for deposit; provide guidance to district Treasurer for disbursements, etc..
3. Protocol person - someone to oversee support for Distinguished Guests (RI president's Rep., Larry Sundram and John Osterlund, guest speakers, Monica Kinuya and Sister Jayne, guest speaker, Past DGs, etc.), ensure appropriate seating at meals and appropriate recognition throughout.
4. Hotel Liaison person - someone to coordinate with Hotel on general room and meal issues.
If you are able to donate some time to help, please contact Tom Andrews at 520-490-5692, email Trandrews@aol.com. Thank you.
President MARY MARTIN brought the meeting to order and welcomed everyone. JACK PARRIS gave the invocation and expressed gratefulness for our country, our leaders, family and Rotary. New member, MELISSA YORK of Rejuv Medical Southwest, recited the pledge of allegiance and led the singing of “The Star Spangled Banner” accompanied on the piano by GARY HIRSCH. MIKE ORCUTT introduced guests and visiting Rotarians. RITA MARSHALL got a shout out from President MARY.
JENNIFER HOFFMAN and IRENE DECKER announced the raffle winners. IRENE donated a gift certificate from 1-800 Flowers, JOHN HARLOW donated a gift certificate from Harlow Gardens, MARY MARTIN donated gift certificates to Sweet Tomatoes, JERRY SULLIVAN donated a gift certificate to Sullivan’s Creamery, and 4 tickets to the Tucson Children’s Museum were donated. After a few unacknowledged numbers, all of the raffle prizes were awarded.
El Rio Vecinos announced a Black Tie Block Party to raise money for pediatric dental care. PATRICIA WATTS had a “Happy Jackson” to raise awareness of the drive to collect socks for our service members in combat zones. PAT ZUMBUSCH announced that on Saturday, SUSAN MOORE VAULT will be promoting the Car Show on her radio program.
STACIA DECKER announced a new membership classification being called the Rule of 35. Any new or existing member aged 35 or under will have a $300 application fee and will be billed only $195 per quarter for seven luncheons. Additional luncheons will be billed and the same application vetting and member responsibilities will apply. TOM ANDREWS gave a heads up on the Fall District Conference being hosted by the Rotary Club of Tucson at the Hilton El Conquistador. MARY MARTIN reminded all that this weekend is the inauguration of the new Streetcar and that MARK IRVIN and ELLIE PATTERSON are intimately involved with the Streetcar.
Past Presidents JIM LUBINSKI and DAVE GALLAHER had developed a contest with Jerry Oliver, immediate past president of the Phoenix 100 Club, based on four factors: increase in Paul Harris Fellows during the year; higher average attendance during the year; higher average giving during the year; and increase in members. Jerry congratulated RCOT for its “victory” and presented our Club with a trophy and a $1000 check. President MARY and new Phoenix 100 Club President, Clef Peterson agreed to continue the contest for this current year.
CLIFF BOWMAN introduced Sunrise Rotary Club member Myron Donald. Myron was an Air Force Academy graduate who was shot down over Vietnam and held as a prisoner of war for over 1800 days. Myron gave a fascinating account of the life of a POW. In the “it’s a small world” category, Myron designed and built the front entry desk at the Reading Seed Library. President MARY closed the meeting with a toast quoting George Washington.
The Community Partnership of Southern Arizona (CPSA) is the Regional Behavioral Health Authority (RBHA) contracted by the state of Arizona to coordinate and manage publicly funded behavioral health services for children, adults and their families in Pima County. CPSA coordinates, by way of a provider network, the delivery of mental health and substance use treatment services, and behavioral health wellness and prevention services.
President MARY MARTIN opened the third meeting of her term and welcomed our Rotarians and guests. MIKE ORCUTT delivered an invocation with a theme in line with our guest speakers from Literacy Connects. Our relatively new member PATRICIA WATTS led us in the pledge and the singing of “America the Beautiful”, accompanied by ELLIE PATTERSON on the piano. President MARY then called immediate Past President DAVE GALLAHER to the podium and presented him with an Engage Rotary - Change Lives banner.
JEFF RONSTADT introduced our visiting Rotarians and guests. JEFF also thanked the Make-A-Wish Foundation for the week his family spent at the Lego factory in Denmark. When it came time to introduce our members with birthdays, IRENE DECKER took command to let everyone know that our President MARY had a birthday this week and IRENE led the Club in singing Happy Birthday to MARY. ALAN ROGERS, GEORGE DARLING, AND BRUCE JACOBS were also celebrating birthdays this week.
DON ROLLINGS and CHERYL HOUSE were both fined for appearing in the newspaper. MIKE ORCUTT reminded the Red Badge members of the STAR meeting that will take place on July 24th. JENNIFER HOFFMAN announced that we will be collecting school supplies for the next two meetings for GAP Ministries. TOM ANDREWS introduced exchange student Gabriel Torres from Ecuador. Gabriel is currently being hosted by JOHN and Kharmyn COUSINS. TOM also introduced Ayana Green, who recently graduated from Rincon High School. Our Club is sponsoring Ayana as an exchange student to Denmark.
CLIFF BOWMAN introduced our speakers, Betty Stauffer and Tamara McKinney, from Literacy Connects. Betty gave us an update on the positive effects of the merger of the five literacy organizations in 2011, and Tamara gave us a report on the current activities of the Reading Seed program.
What a surprise to have Irene "take over" the meeting to sing "happy birthday!" Thank you Irene and thank you all for joining in - made my day!
I am excited about our board this year and the direction we're going. We are continuing where past president Dave left off with an upward trajectory of growth. We currently have five new members in the pipeline and no resignations, for which I and the board are extremely grateful.
Our Director over membership, Stacia Decker, Teresa Liverzani-Baker, membership chair and their team are busy working on a new "Rule of 35" category for young professionals under 35. More to come on that.
If you have an individual membership, you may want to consider moving your membership to a corporate membership. I just did that with my company and it is a win-win for both our club and the company. If you are interested in learning more about this, please let me know.
I'm excited about our new exchange student, Gabriel Torres and our outbound student, Ayana Green. I love the two pins that Gabriel gave me from Ecuador. One of the perks of being president. :)
Please mark your calendars now for September 26th - 28th for the District Conference at the Hilton El Conquistador Resort. We will be replacing the meeting on September 24th so you can attend the lunch at the District Conference.
I look forward to seeing all of you next Wednesday and hope you will consider inviting a guest who might be a good candidate for our club. Thank you.
If you haven’t made this hike and this place is on your bucket list, here is your chance! This trip is sponsored by the RYE program for our neighboring District 5510. It is extremely well organized by Chuck Flint, a member of the Mesa Rotary Club and is a blast. Havasupai Canyon is one of the most scenic spots in all of Arizona, and this hike incorporates spectacular scenery plus the opportunity to mingle with the state’s RYE students from two Districts that include 5490 and 5500. The canyon is home to many waterfalls including the famous Havasu Falls and Mooney Falls, which is the highest waterfall in Arizona and the Indian village of Supai, Arizona. Anyone is welcome to attend and registration ends October 1. Non Rotarians are welcome!
It is first come first served. Susan and I have participated five times and it is a very fun experience and great exercise. On average there are about 20-25 RYE students from all over the world, and trip organizer Chuck Flint does a remarkable job of making this trip very easy. Pitching in to help is optional and fun to do. The hike is 11 miles to the campground and 11 miles back out. Horses can be reserved and so can a helicopter! Anyone over the age of seven is welcome. Trip cost is estimated at $285 and includes meals, permits, transport of pack by horses, and fun. Transportation from Mesa may be available and car pooling is usually the best option for the southern Arizonans. If interested and want to learn more, call Dave Gallaher at 907-4983.
Myron Donald grew up on a corner of his grandfather’s farm Moravia in central New York. His father was a carpenter; his mother a housewife. He has two brothers and a sister. In high school, he played football, baseball and basketball and was president of the Student Council. He graduated from the United States Air Force Academy in 1965 and entered pilot training in Selma, Alabama, just a few months after Martin Luther King, Jr.’s civil rights march to Montgomery.
What a great start to a new Rotary year! It was so interesting to hear about the U2 incident and the Cold War from such an intimate perspective. Gary Powers, son of the U2 pilot that was shot down shared the timeline and facts of what really happened to his dad and the mission.
Jim Murphy gave Paul Harris Fellows to his three grandchildren and received another himself. Scott Vaughan gave one to his wife Margy and Yvonne Ervin got her first Paul Harris. Congratulations to you all.
I was pleased to see so many new guests, so thank you to all who brought them, and I hope many of these will become members of our Club.
I had the honor and privilege of representing our club at the retirement ceremony for Command Chief Master Sergeant Dawna Cnota. Chief Master Sergeant Cnota has served our Country faithfully for 28 years and what a privilege it has been to have her as part of our Rotary Club as an Honorary member. According to Colonel Blanchard, it is a one in a million chance to receive the recognition of Command Chief Master Sergeant. Congratulations and thank you for your service Command Chief Master Sergeant Cnota!
I look forward to seeing everyone on Wednesday and hope you'll consider bringing a guest. Thank you.
Our lovely President MARY MARTIN called our meeting to order with our respectable Major CLEM LESLIE from the Salvation Army handling our invocation. Numbers Guru ALANA VICK led us in the pledge and the renowned song of “You’re A Grand Old Flag” which was perfectly on key. Our musically talented GARY HIRSCH assisted with ALANA on the piano adding to the amazing performance.
New member, DALE BERG helped with the introduction of Guests and Visiting Rotarians. We also had two individuals who became a year older, but a year wiser which were the enthusiastic DAVE WHITE and sociable JIM RONSTADT. The adventurous TOM ANDREWS did want everyone to sign up for the Grand Canyon trip and he is willing to carry you on his back if you can’t make the trip back up.
The meeting was an action packed learning experience about spies to death tactics used in the Cold War (maybe I am over-embellishing a bit). It is a nice touch about something that many do not know much about and for others it is a better understanding of a tense time.
With over 33,000 Rotary Clubs in the World, I would say that our club has some of the best meetings. From coaches of the world’s best college athletic program to political issues, the Rotary Club of Tucson is truly the place to become better aware of certain topics, but to provide a humanitarian good for our society.
The Sick and Visitation Committee wanted to give a Progress Report on our recovering Rotarians. Progress varies with each as follows:
- Gordon Shaw is stronger and walking without as much assistance but still working on his endurance.
- Don Clark is better from his unknown illness after his trip to Europe. He is gaining strength and breathing better. Sounded very up and may be back to Rotary soon.
- David Pashkow sounds good and is making progress but still tires easily and rests a good part of the day. As his MDs have advised he is not rushing his recovery, at least at this point. It’s hard to hold David down.
- Sandy Sanderson is stuck on a plateau and is still in the struggle mode. He needs the groups concentrated prayers and healing thoughts to help boost him to the next level.
- Stu Goldman has been playing jazz and picking up cookies at our meetings. He’s just had heart surgery? We need to send him around to touch all our recovering Rotarians, he’s got the good vibes.
Give a call, make a visit, or send an email to wish all our fellow Rotarians all the best for a speedy recovery.
Since the Rotary Club of Tucson first adopted Reading Seed in 2005, thousands of volunteers have helped tens of thousands of struggling K-3 students not only get caught up but to learn to love reading. Under Rotary Club of Tucson leadership, what had begun as a small volunteer group in 1995 soon flourished into a Pima County-wide program that last year served nearly 2,000 elementary students and distributed more than 44,000 free books to high-need children, schools, and teachers.
The budget for the coming year does include a small dues increase which becomes effective July 1, 2014. A combination of rising expenses such as RI Dues, District Dues, Food Cost Increases, along with the rise in RYLA, Rotaract and Interact expenses, have made this small increase necessary in order to maintain the financial health of our club. Dues for active club members increased from $300 per quarter ($1,200 per year) to $310 per quarter ($1,240 per year). Rule of 85 and Leave of Absence members will see a $4.50 per quarter increase from $112.50 per quarter to $117.00 per quarter with a slight increase in meals from $22 to $23.
PLEASE NOTE: Guest lunches will now be $25 up from $22.
Also, the DEADLINE to reserve a special lunch meal, i.e., fruit, vegetable or gluten free meal and reservations for Guests is now the Friday before by 2:00 p.m. Thank you.
Quarterly Dues Increase & Light Lunch Deadline Change!
New President MARY MARTIN rang the meeting to order right on time. A great start to her year in leadership. Her promptness caught TED KIRACOFE off guard for his invocation. He gave a nice piece about change in administration. CLIFF BOWMAN our club A-10 STUD, lead us in the pledge and a special heartfelt rendition of the Star Spangled Banner. GARY HIRSCH accompanied on the piano and also put a little extra into it.
JO DECHATELET cut her trip up north short and made our introductions of guests. We celebrated two birthdays this week. Our former President and new assistant district governor JIM LUBINSKI and our wonderful country the USA! President MARY made it clear that the next year will be on her schedule as she started the program. Everyone better stay on their toes. I like your style Pres MARY!!
The program ranged from some dues going up, the board and their teams, the pinning of President-Elect PHIL GUTT, membership, and a whole bunch more. MARY had a great trip down under and brought back the excitement for Rotary. Sometimes you might just feel like you are going to a required lunch on Wednesdays. Next time you have that feeling just remember this meeting and all that Rotary does worldwide. What a great organization YOU have chosen to be a part of!
I hope you enjoyed my Rotary International Convention presentation as much as I enjoyed representing the Rotary Club of Tucson at the Convention in Sydney.
I am pleased and honored to take the helm as the new President of our remarkable club! We have an amazing board of directors who will be serving our club and we are looking forward to a great year with your help! Please help us with our membership goals and think of someone you know or work with who might make a great Rotarian and invite them to a meeting. Remember that if they join, we will give you a credit for their lunch.
I look forward to seeing you next Wednesday and hope you enjoy your 4th of July weekend!
Francis Gary Powers, Jr., Founder and Chairman Emeritus of The Cold War Museum, will provide a brief overview of the Cold War, help clear up the misinformation associated with the U-2 Incident, and his efforts to educate future generations about this time period.
What a wonderful trip down memory lane as now President Dave, in his usual glib and entertaining way gave a re-cap of this past year. Under Dave’s leadership our Club grew by a net of 11 new members which I believe is a record and we accomplished so many amazing things for our community and beyond! Dave reminded us that when people come together for a common goal, great things can be achieved. If you missed his presentation, read last week’s Tucsotarian where you will get a full re-cap of all the things our Club did that truly impacted our community this past year.
It is a little daunting to follow in his and all the other remarkable past presidents of our Club, but with your participation and encouragement, I am confident that the Rotary Club of Tucson will continue to grow, thrive and make a difference in our community and abroad.
As the new President of the Rotary Club of Tucson, I would ask you to think about someone you know who would make a great Rotarian and consider inviting them as your guest. Thank you and I look forward to seeing you on July 2nd and working together for another terrific Rotary year!
Please join our incoming President, Mary Martin, for an overview of her trip to the International Convention held in Sydney, AustraIia. Mary will share the impact Rotary has worldwide. She will also outline her goals for the 2014-2015 Rotary Year and introduce the 2014-2015 Board of Directors who will assist in helping her achieve those goals.
PRESIDENT DAVE opened the meeting with a moment of silence for JANIS COTTEN, a member since March 2008 who passed away on March 13, 2013 (during Dave's tenure as Club President).
PAT ZUMBUSCH gave the invocation. To thank his Registration and Sergeant-at-Arms teams, PRESIDENT DAVE assigned more work for them to do.... by leading the pledge and song. Special thanks to JEN HOFFMAN, MARCIA KRUMWIEDE TIMS, JOHN HARLOW, and STACIA DECKER for all their hard work! They were joined by ELLIE PATTERSON on the piano.
CLIFF BOWMAN introduced our guests including our District Governor. We wished happy birthday to CHERYL HOUSE, ED COLE, and MONTE CLAUSEN.
PAT ZUMBUSCH introduced a new member - TOM NEUSTEDTER with the classification of Consulting: Business Coach.
Several people won raffle prizes today including PRESIDENT DAVE. Rumor is that DAVE has won several weeks in a row.
PAT LENNAN recognized PRESIDENT DAVE with the "Penelope the Flying Pig" Award. YVONNE ERVIN and DOT KRET will be co-chairing the Program Committee this coming year. District Governor Nancy Cassel presented our Rotary Club with the 2013/2014 Rotary Club Presidential Citation with Distinction. PRESIDENT DAVE also announced that we are now the largest Rotary club in the state of Arizona.
PRESIDENT DAVE gave a great summary of all the Club's accomplishments for the 2013/2014 year. Thank you PRESIDENT DAVE for a great job and all your hard work this past year! After some fellowship time, PRESIDENT DAVE handed the gavel over to incoming president MARY MARTIN.
This past month, RCOT became a member of the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. During the past year, we have had a lot of discussion on how we grow our Club and how we can increase the diversity of our membership. The Hispanic Chamber’s 1000 business members represent a great opportunity to expand our Club. This is also a great group for us to network the power of Rotary and community and world service and promote our international projects including our efforts in San Carlos, Sonora.
One of the premier events to market the RCOT is the “40 Under 40” annual breakfast which is held each year (usually in November). This target audience represents some of the best and brightest business men and women who would make great Rotarians.
Our membership in the Chamber will allow RCOT members to attend the many countless meetings, luncheons, seminars, and other activities and receive the discounted member rate. Not only is this a great opportunity to market the Club, but it is also a great opportunity to network our interests as business owners in the community. So, when you sign up for an event, please note that you can register as a member of the Rotary Club of Tucson to get your discount. Let’s engage these business owners with the goal of promoting Rotary and increasing our diversity in our membership for 2014/15. If you have any questions or if you have any interest in joining a non official committee to be a part of this year’s efforts, please let me or Dorinna know.
Whew! How fast a year goes by can be pretty amazing. It is difficult to write about all of the remarkable things our amazing Rotary Club does during a year, and remember all the people I would like to thank. We had incredible accomplishments and I think we can all agree we lived and celebrated this year’s Rotary International theme of “Engage Rotary-Change Lives”. Let’s look at just a few of the many things our Club accomplished this past year.
What a meeting last week. We were entertained by the Arizona Theatre Company with a little bit of Shakespeare. One can only imagine how dull things would be if we did not have the Theatre Company here in Tucson.
Like usual, we had a ton of business to take care of as the Rotary year winds down. A great deal of thanks went out to the Doubletree servers and staff for the wonderful job they do each year for our weekly meetings. The Club gave them a well deserved standing ovation. As we learned last week, many of them have been serving for 25 years before I became a member. Great job guys and gals!
I believe we raised our $2000 necessary for our Finland RYE student Maria to assist with her year at Salpointe. Thanks to all those that responded to the call. This is the first year in eight or nine years that Salpointe has offered to support one of our RYE students and they provided half the funds for “scholarship” for Maria to go to school there. This girl is pretty incredible and we look forward to meeting her in August. Our other student is from Ecuador and will attend Vail High School. We are still in need for a third family for the Finnish student. The period will be sometime around April.
Finally, we made plans for our COA party at Skyline and it looks like the attendance will be great. Our Club is very well organized with the annual change of President whereas the President Elect Elect has been chosen and is counting the days until they too will attend a COA party. Mary Martin takes over at the end of the meeting next week.
Speaking of next week, we will have a very interesting program this Wednesday. The program is EVERYONE. Come and find out what that means. See you Wednesday.
We began our meeting with the introduction of Shawn Scott our new Admin Asst. Hello and welcome to the club Shawn. For being summer, we had another packed meeting today. It is good to see the room staying full and a buzz with activity.
BOB SHAFF held our invocation today. It was an invocation we all should practice every day in our personal lives. We need to remember our blessings and let them be known. PETER MAYER led us in the pledge and song. CHRIS EDWARDS did his personal best introducing our guests and visitors. Our birthday bunch was a fierce group with IRENE DECKER (a lovely car show story), ERNIE MINCHELLA (Buongiorno), MAYOR JONATHAN ROTHSCHILD (Dorado PRIDE), and PAT ZUMBUSCH ($1,000 dollar gift!!!).
We had a few Paul Harris recipients: Ericka Mundinger, who is on her way to Ecuador as our exchange student. Have a great trip! Her father, RICHARD MUNDINGER and our President DAVE GALLAHER received one as well. Dave gave ALLYN BULZOMI a special gift PH for his help this year. CLARKE DUNCAN also received one. If this guy doesn’t make you want to become/ do “more”, I don’t know who would. Congrats to you all.
We recognized our wait staff, some of whom have been working the room for many decades. A couple fines were levied and some props given to our perfect attendance persons. Our program was “450 Years In The Making”. We had some sonnets read - #29 and 116 to be exact. What a way to close out our meeting to have a little stage balcony rendition of Romeo and Juliet.
Holy hot tamale! The year has two weeks left. We had a fun meeting this week and a record crowd for a June meeting. Our membership board in the office is full of new members making their way through the process and several prospective members attended this past week. This is good news for our Club. All things holding steady, we will set a small record for membership growth and thanks goes out to all who have made the effort to invite possible members the past 11 months.
We had an interesting speaker with Dr. Joaquin Ruiz, Dean of Science, for the University of Arizona. Let’s pray for more rain in the southwest so we do not lose all of our trees. Once again our program was a meeting highlight. Thanks to our program chairs, Bob Logan and Jeff Ronstadt, for making our programs informative and entertaining.
We had the introduction of three new members this week. That is a first for the year. Better late than never! We also had some good birthdays but a special birthday from Gordon Graham who turned 90 and declined to accept the Frank Zunno 90 rule where he could have been the program.
We have some work remaining for this year and I am asking for your help. We need to raise $1500 for our RYE student from Finland to attend Salpointe HS. Salpointe has generously provided some scholarship towards her tuition and we needed to raise $2000. We have $1500 to go. If you have a birthday coming up you might consider making a contribution towards her school. We are close to cementing all three host families and need backups for those short (weekend/week) periods that something might come up and the host family needs to leave town. Please see George, me, Tom Andrews and/or Vic Jacobs.
I forgot to mention that David Pashkow had back surgery last week. He is doing well and recuperating. Please let him know that we wish him well for a speedy recovery.
Make sure to register for the COA party and welcome Mary Martin into her year as President on June 21 at Skyline Country Club. It will be a fun evening and I am looking forward to being there!
Lastly, don’t forget to come to my last official meeting on June 25. We have a special program and gift for the membership. See you Wednesday.
2014 marks the 450th anniversary of William Shakespeare’s birth. Arizona Theatre Company’s artistic director and two leading local actors discuss the continuing relevance of the Bard in our times, what makes Shakespeare our contemporary and what he still has to teach us in the 21st century. To mark next season’s ATC production, two of Tucson’s finest local actors, Harold and Maedell Dixon, will perform excerpts from Romeo and Juliet as well as some of Shakespeare’s most beautiful sonnets.
PRESIDENT DAVE began the meeting on time by referring to Senior Ditch day and the end of his tenure. Senioritis- The current mental state of our wonderful President? Does anyone else think he might be counting the weeks/ days/ meetings until his rule is over?
SUZANNE LAWDER conducted our invocation this week by reading a wonderful piece from FDR. It was lengthy but had a great message that fit our club and Rotary. JAN GREEN led us in the pledge and a group recital of the “Four –Way Test”. Interesting facts that it was created in 1942 and began with, and still has the same 24 words. CHARLIE MEAKER made the introductions of guests and visiting Rotarians. He also presented PRESIDENT DAVE with his very own Kazoo. Some might have noticed PRES DAVE struggling to find which end was the proper end to blow into. Might I recommend private lessons CHARLIE.
Our birthday crew was BEN STOREK, STEVE STEENSON, KEITH WIEGAND, and GORDON GRAHAM. GORDON thanks for talking about Honor Flight. Something our club should consider supporting sooner than later. We had the introduction of three new members: ROBYN FREY, MELISSA YORK, and BOB MORKEN. Three things to know about them respectively: collects crazy lamps, Olympic weightlifting, and loves cars. After a quick raffle where PRES DAVE won yet again (is this rigged?), some announcements, DARYL ROSS and AMANDA WOOD received their blue badges.
We were blessed again to have “El Jefe” (Dean Joaquin Ruiz) speak. I would say he is a nice accessory to have to go along with the most diverse landscape in the USA. He leads the much recognized U of A in science and is an advocate for the community on a multitude of levels. I guess you don’t get the name El Jefe for being average.
I think this past week might have been one of the best meetings of the year for me. I hope it was for you as well. It was a great program with Bishop Kincanas who rocked the house with a great presentation on the Power of Prayer. Are you sitting on the bench? We all need to stop for a minute during the day and take in the moment. Now, if I could follow that advice, I know I would be happier and healthier. It is tough sometimes when we all get caught up in the minutia of the day. The Bishop did a great job and it was great to meet him. A very special thank you goes out to my friend and neighbor, Tracy Handley, for donating her special pictorial book of churches in Arequipa Peru for our auction to raise money for educational expenses of our new RYE student from Finland. Tracy was recognized by the Peruvian National Congress for her work and a copy of her book was presented to the Pope last year by the Archbishop of Peru. Thanks to Jim Ronstadt for generously purchasing this book for $400. Once again, RCOT has the best programs of any Club in town.
Another highlight was the presentation of the Four Way Test Award to Dolly Quinn. This is the highest award our Club gives to a non Rotarian and Dolly is surely deserving of recognition for her volunteering of herself and business to help those that are suffering from cancer. She brought in a large contingent of fans! Now we are official fans as well. Congrats to Dolly!
Matt Blair gave the first of many presentations about the upcoming San Carlos trip taking place the first weekend of December 2014. This will mark the 26th year of our Club’s work with the San Carlos Rotary Club in community projects in San Carlos and also in participating in the Holiday Programs at the various schools. We will visit the fishing village of La Manga again as well as begin a process for assisting with the development of the high school facility in San Carlos. Currently this facility looks like a prison. This is what we are about - International service. Please put this date on your calendars. I have participated three times in my career with RCOT, and every year it puts me in a great holiday frame of mind. Most importantly, it makes me thankful for being a part of such a great Rotary Club. We need to build the funds necessary for this trip. Please think about a donation to the San Carlos trip.
We barely had time for the recognition and fining of PP Don Rollings and member Jeff Ronstadt. Thanks guys for being good sports and being members of RCOT.
We heard the “announcement” from Gary Hirsch on the Ride to End Polio for this year’s El Tour de Tucson. Once again, look at what we are doing! We make such a difference. Put this year’s Tour date on your calendar and come ride or just come down to the hospitality booth and help out.
Finally (whew!) we have made the final plans for the arrival of our RYE student from Finland. Her name is Maria and she will be attending Salpointe HS. We need to raise about $2500 for tuition and books. Salpointe has generously donated to half of Maria’s tuition. If you would like to donate please let Dorinna or myself know. We have a first family and a third family. We need a second!
So, as I round out the month of June headed for the coveted Past President’s pin, this past week was a great example of all the great things we do. It seems like a week ago that Susan and I were at the International Convention in Lisbon.
Speaking of the end of the year, don’t forget to register for the COA party at Skyline CC, June 21, 2014 from 5:30 PM to 10:00 PM or the last dancers………..it will be a fun evening with PP John McCaleb’s Rillito River Band.
PRESIDENT DAVE GALLAHER opened the meeting with a moment of silence for JIM MATHER who recently passed away while on vacation. JIM was a member of our club from February, 2010 to September, 2013.
SUSAN MOORE VAULT gave the invocation. CLIFF BOWMAN led the pledge and song. CAM MOORE introduced our guests. JO DECHATELET had 18 guests today!
Getting a year older are GARY HIRSCH and FRANK ZUNNO. GARY promoted fundraising participation in the El Tour. I learned you can also participate by riding your stationary bike in front of your TV for 104 minutes this year!
CLIFF BOWMAN, wanting additional attention, then introduced Lt. Col. Steve Sztan. Lt. Col. Sztan promoted a program called Community and Airman Partnering (CAMP) where families take in a young airman each month for a home-cooked meal, etc. CLIFF can give you more information about this program.
ALAN ROGERS introduced new member LINDA WOJTOWICZ, CEO of the Boys and Girls Club of Tucson. ALAN helped us all learn the correct pronunciation of her name: LIN….DA.
PRESIDENT DAVE fined both JEFF RONSTADT and DON ROLLINGS. JEFF’s wife Tiane was recently recognized as a “Remarkable Mom” and DON was featured on the front page of Tucson Weekly. DON did admit that he was not wearing his Rotary pin in the picture.
PRESIDENT DAVE promoted the Change of Administration Party. Sign up on the website. MARGARET HIGGINS and JO DECHATELET recognized DOLLY QUINN with the Rotary 4 Way Test Award. Apparently the 18 guests with JO came in support of DOLLY. MATT BLAIR promoted the San Carlos Project. The funds raised for San Carlos help with scholarships, facility improvements, and food.
JIM RONSTADT introduced Bishop Gerald Kicanas, Bishop of the Diocese of Tucson, and his program: “The Power of Prayer.”
From building the largest telescopes in the world (Giant Magellan Telescope) to studying the fate of water in a semi-arid environment at the Biosphere 2; the UA College of Science is known for its "Big Science". Dean Joaquin Ruiz will touch on all of the exciting aspects of the College of Science, including the $1 billion mission to a near earth asteroid to hopefully help us find answers to how life formed in our solar system. He will provde information about the numerous outreach programs the College of Science hosts, including the annual Lecture Series, the Science City portion of the Tucson Festival of Books and the work we do in the area of STEM education. It will be an insightful look into this gem of the University of Arizona.
The Rotary Club of Tucson Foundation is a huge asset to the community and we had a very informative presentation this past week that explained where our proceeds are spent. Some good questions were asked and the Foundation survey results will be interesting. If you missed the meeting, you might want to ask Dorinna or Cindy Godwin for a copy of the survey questions and return to Dorinna or Cindy.
This week’s program is Bishop Kincanas. I am looking forward to meeting him and hear him speak. We will also be awarding our Four Way Test Award to a very deserving individual. The Four Way Test Award is one of the Club’s highest awards to a non-Rotarian. You do not want to miss this week’s meeting.
Last week’s meeting; we collected $147.00 for the scholarship cups. Thank you. One of the things I did years ago is sign up for the quarterly billing for a scholarship donation. I contribute $39/qtr that is billed along with my quarterly dues. It is the easiest way to contribute to this worthy cause. All you have to do is sit next to one of our Rotary scholars during a meeting. They are incredible. The costs of college are rapidly increasing. The more funds we raise in the Scholarship Cups, the more we can help the students.
Meanwhile, back at the ranch……….summer is here! Cicadas anyone? As my year winds to a close, I start remembering all the things that did not get accomplished this past year. Ouch. It goes by so quickly. Please remember to sign up for a committee assignment and consider being a chairperson.
The meeting began with an invocation by JACK PARRIS and a pledge and song, “My Country Tis of Thee,” led by ALANA VICK.
There were many guest and visitors recognized by new member, PATRICIA WATTS.
Birthdays were celebrated by JOE NEVIN (“my fellow Rotarians”), SCOTT VAUGHN (leading a short program of his own within the meeting), JAN GREEN and MIKE SAGARA. All have been fine members of the Club and were recognized as such by the President.
DREW VACTOR introduced new member CHRIS LUDWIG, a CPA with many years of experience in Tucson. DREW had a well-organized slide show highlighting CHRIS’ background, including his Ohio Buckeye status. The Club welcomed him despite his college affiliation.
BRETT STEIN received his blue badge from SUSAN MOORE VAULT. Congratulations to him.
CHARLOTTE HARRIS then presented on the Rotary Club of Tucson Foundation. She discussed the many good projects made possible by the Foundation. CHARLOTTE was also clear to distinguish this from the national foundation.
One would think of a presentation on our Club’s Foundation to be a fairly non-controversial topic. One would be wrong. CHARLIE MEAKER woke up the crowd with a challenge to the Club to use more of the Foundation funds for charitable causes and to keep a smaller balance invested. Various members chimed in either favoring or opposing such an alternative approach. It was pointed out by some members that certain funds are restricted and cannot be currently distributed. It was a lively debate leaving CHARLOTTE looking exhausted and wondering what she had gotten herself into.
After that excitement,the meeting died back down into its usual slow-paced rhythm.
President DAVE closed the meeting with a toast and adjournment until next time.
Bishop Gerald F. Kicanas was installed as Bishop of Tucson on March 7, 2003. He was appointed Coadjutor Bishop of Tucson on October 30, 2001. He was appointed Auxiliary Bishop of Chicago on January 24, 1995 and served as Episcopal Vicar of Vicariate I of the Archdiocese of Chicago. He was ordained a bishop on March 20, 1995.
Ordained a priest on April 27, 1967, Bishop Kicanas has served in various capacities in the seminary system of the Archdiocese of Chicago for over 25 years, preparing men for parish ministry. In 1984 he was appointed Rector of Mundelein Seminary at the University of St. Mary of the Lake, Mundelein, Illinois, which is the theologate graduate level seminary of the Archdiocese. Concurrently, he served as a lecturer in Community and Organizational Development at Loyola University. Previous seminary postings include Rector, Principal, and Dean of Formation at the former Quigley Seminary South.
The Town Hall was another success this past week and if you were not there we had a great question and answer session with those that are making huge decisions for our community and our economy. Chuck Huckleberry, Honorable Mayor (Honorary Member) Jonathan Rothschild, Joe Snell (TREO), Brent DeRaad (Visit Tucson), and Mike Varney (Tucson Chamber) gave us their comments on many different subjects. We had 190 people including visitors and guests that attended. RCOT has the best programs! Thanks Bob Logan and Jeff Ronstadt for setting this up.
We continue to have good guest attendance and we are doing well with prospective members as we wind down this 2013/2014 Rotary year. Please reach out and continue to invite prospective members to the meetings. We are going to have a plus increase in membership but it is hard work and a goal of 230 to start the new year is achievable. We are at 219 but soon to be back to 223.
Speaking of reaching out for membership, RCOT has recently joined the Tucson Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. Our expectation is that this group of 1000 business owners represents a great opportunity to increase diversity in our Club membership. More on this later.
We have several important events coming up soon. On June 21, we will have our COA party at Skyline Country Club with a buffet and we welcome back the Rillito River Band starring our very own plucker, PP John McCaleb. It will be a fun filled evening and we welcome PE Mary Martin as our new President and we get rid of this guy (Dave) who joins the Past Presidents group. Everything is the same as last year. The cost is only $45/PP. Put on your dancing shoes!
Speaking of PE Mary, please give her good wishes as she leaves May 29 for the International Convention in Sydney, Australia. Ellie Patterson has already left and Sally Montagne as well. It is a life changing event and we wish all of them safe travels.
PAT ZUMBUSH gave the perfect invocation considering our guest panel of city and county leaders.
BILL MESCH led the pledge and was accompanied by LESLIE GALLOWAY in singing “You’re a Grand Old Flag”. Thank you LESLIE!
Our numerous guests (too many to name) and visiting Rotarians were thanked by BOB LOGAN. We also celebrated birthdays for NINA TRASOFF, PAT LENNAN, JO DECHATELET and PAT RASKOB! ANN LANCERO announced her daughter Katya (who was in attendance) graduated from law school. It was also announced the Youth Exchange was looking for a family to host a young lady from Finland who aspires to be a Pro golfer. Please contact TOM ANDREWS if interested.
PRESIDENT DAVE brought BOB LOGAN back up to the podium who introduced Dan Marries from KOLD-TV 13. Dan moderated the Tucson & Pima County Leaders Panel discussion. The panel consisted of Mayor Rothschild, Chuck Huckleberry - Pima County Administrator, Joe Snell - President and CEO of Tucson Regional Economic Opportunities, Inc. (TREO), Mike Varney - President & CEO of the Tucson Metro Chamber, and Brent DeRaad - President & CEO of Metropolitan Tucson Convention & Visitors Bureau.
Topics ranged widely from DMAFB and the A10’s, Rio Nuevo, Community Center Hotel, Rosemont Copper, Tesla, City Golf, TREO and Tucson’s job future, Port of Tucson, roads (pot holes), consolidation of City and County Government, the future of downtown and the role of the Street car!
At 1:20 p.m. PRESIDENT DAVE left us with some quotes of wisdom, we toasted and were adjourned.
The Rotary Club of Tucson Foundation was established in 1975 as the 501c3 charitable arm of our organization. Its purpose is to receive charitable gifts and to disburse funds for charitable, civic, educational and similar purposes in a manner so that contributions qualify as deductions under the IRS code. With the dedication, hard work and generosity of Rotary Club of Tucson members and supporters, we are able to improve the lives of others. Our major contributions during the last five years are: Reading Seed of Literacy Connects, our centennial project; scholarships for students attending the University of Arizona and Pima Community College; and the annual San Carlos Program. Our annual Tucson Classics Car Show is one area of the foundation, raising funds annually that benefits our local community.
Thanks to the Arizona State Museum’s Dianne Dittemore for her interesting presentation on the enormous basket collection they have at the museum. Diane and her assistant Curator Andrew Higgins brought a nice collection of Native American basketry to the meeting. The picture of Frank Zunno on Facebook trying to convince them that the Doubletree bread baskets were antiquities was a hoot.
Next week is our Town Hall meeting and should be an interesting program. We had lots of interest eighteen months ago when we had our last one. If you have any questions to ask of the members of the panel, please submit them to Jeff Ronstadt or Bob Logan.
We are reaching the end of the Rotary Year of giving which officially ends in May. If you are just short of a Paul Harris goal, please see Charlotte Harris. We have a way to help you. It also helps us win our bet with our neighbors to the north, the Phoenix 100 Rotary Club. The three categories of our bet are 1) Membership; 2) Paul Harris members per capita membership; 3) Annual giving to RI.
One of the difficult issues we deal with behind the scenes in club operations is telling the Doubletree how many lunches we need every week. Some weeks it is a crapshoot. The lunches are our biggest budget item and every President, Treasurer, and Executive Director struggles with this. One way we can change it is every guest needs to be registered by noon on Tuesday. If they do not attend, the Club member is responsible for paying for the guest lunch. This lunch costs us $22. Last week, we had a bunch of no shows and it was an expensive meeting for the Club and our budget. Please help us with this process.
Our Change of Administration Party is now official for June 21 at Skyline Country Club. The cost will be $45.00 PP and it should be a great time welcoming our new President Mary Martin. John McCaleb and the Rillito River Band will be back for the third year with great tunes. Registration will be on Clubrunner. See you Wednesday.
We had a great work project on Saturday, May 10th at the Triangle Y Camp beyond Oracle. The RCOT and the Camp (opened in 1948) have had a long relationship over the years and it has been a long time since we have last visited with a work project. If I was to try and thank everyone who showed, I know I will leave someone out! Past President Bill Harlow did admit to attending Camp in 1950 and as such was our “oldest” former camper. You guys and gals rock! We also had our first work project with our shared Rotoract Club from the University of Arizona. We share them with the Tucson Sunrise Rotary Club. They had a car load of five show up and they worked hard with the rest of us. The Camp opens the second week of June and they are behind in several areas that included painting the bathrooms and landscaping (removal) of several key areas where the kids travel. Trying to snake proof that place would take a life time and snakes are part of the desert but we made a good dent in several key areas.
One of the cool things about these projects is getting to know your fellow Rotarians better. I learned new things about Jan Green, Bill Harlow, John Harlow, and Tim Overstreet. One person stood out in particular. Her name is Cassidy and I thought she was a Rotoractor. She was not. She is one of our scholarship students. She is amazing. She attends Pima Community College and works a full time job as a preschool teacher. Because of her schedule of class and work she cannot attend our meetings. She participates in our work projects (Food Bank, Camp, Salvation Army Ringing the Bell) and is full of thanks for our $800 scholarship. This young woman is all about community service.
We had a great BBQ lunch and did some more work while our Rotoractors did the zipline game for campers. Yours truly was too scared to make the climb to the top of the pole.
Thanks to all for helping out. It was a beautiful day and we saved the grounds guy about two months of work. Great job friends.
President DAVE GALLAHER hammered the gavel at exactly noon to start the meeting.
MIKE ORCUTT gave an inspiring invocation, and TOM NEUSTEDTER lead us in the Pledge and singing "America the Beautiful", accompanied by GARY HIRSCH on the piano.
Our numerous guests and visiting Rotarians were introduced by DENNIS DRISCOLL. We also celebrated the birthdays of KEN TUCKER, BILL MOORE, and BRIAN GOLDSTEIN.
Sergeant At Arms JENNIFER HOFFMAN conducted our weekly raffle, in which this editor again failed to win a prize. JENNIFER gave the microphone to RICHARD WHITE, who announced that he is retiring from the Red Cross on June 14th. RICHARD gave a contribution to Polio Plus as his fine.
MARSHALL DENNINGTON introduced Rotary Exchange Student Dominik Dresp and encouraged everyone to participate in the rewarding activity of hosting a student. Dominik is an exchange student from Germany and gave us a presentation on his activities since he arrived in August.
President DAVE introduced our speakers from the Arizona State Museum. Diane Dittemore is the Curator of Ethnological Collections, and Andrew Higgins is the Assistant Curator of Ethnological Collections. Diane gave us a history of the museum and information on its early donors. Arizona Governor George W.P.Hunt introduced legislation in 1893, while he was a Legislator from Globe, to create the Arizona Territorial Museum, which is now the Arizona State Museum. He also donated 85 Western Apache and Akimel O'odham baskets to the museum. Other early donors of baskets were Perry Merrell Williams and William and Nelle Dermont. Today the collection contains over 25,000 examples of baskets and fabrics. In recent years, the Museum has built new storage and viewing facilities that make it easier to display the collection. Diane and Andrew brought several examples from the collection for our viewing.
The Rotary Club of Tucson will host City and County Leaders for a Public Panel Discussion. Dan Marries from KOLD-13 will be moderating the meeting and discussion. The panel will include Mayor Jonathan Rothschild, County Administrator Chuck Huckleberry, VisitTucson.org President and CEO Brent DeRaad, TREO President and CEO Joe Snell, and Tucson Metro Chamber President and CEO Mike Varney. The Club Membership will provide questions for Dan Marries to use to address the panel.
The meeting began with a fine invocation by TED KIRACOFE and song by LESLIE GALLOWAY. There were many guests and visitors recognized by GEORGE DARLING.
BILL MOORE gave the presentation leading up to a vote on the four contenders for funds from the Tucson Classics Car Show. The four were: Casa de la Luz Foundation, Imago Dei Middle School, Tucson Youth Development and Carondelet Foundation. The organizations represent the needs of those in our society throughout someone’s life. All gave excellent presentations about their charitable work and commitment to the Car Show.
TOM BROWNING was recognized for his almost fifty years in the Club and his family history in the Club as well. His remarks were heartfelt and reminded us of the longtime service of so many of our members.
Ballets were collected for the Car Show funds and BILL announced that the Club would send an e-mail later in the day with the results.
BRUCE TUNZE introduced new member PAT WATTS, of Larry Miller Chrysler/Jeep, who volunteered her services to any committee needing help. She is welcome as our newest member.
BOB LOGAN lightened the mood with his usual fun presentation of new Paul Harris Fellows, including gag gifts. We learned much about DAVID PASHKOW’s manufacturing background with many sample products representing DAVID’s past employment being distributed by BOB to the newest Paul Harris Fellows.
JOE NEVIN reminded us of Rotary Closet Cleaning Day. Remember to bring your gently used items. DAVE closed the meeting with the usual toast and adjournment until next time.
Last week’s meeting was very special as we listened to the Final Four of our community charities that presented their proposed programs for our grants. I wanted to vote for four! Each group did a great job and it is nice to see where the final efforts of our TCCS will go next year. For those that missed the meeting, Literacy Connects and Reading Seed will continue to be a large part of our giving for the next year as well. Casa de la Luz Foundation and the Carondelet Foundation were the highest vote getters. Thank you, Bill Moore, for leading the Committee for 2014.
I think one of the most fun and very different things our Club does is the remarkable job that we do when we honor our Paul Harris recipients. We have some fun with this special honor, and we are serious also in the effort to continue this great gift giving tradition for Rotary International. Thanks Bob and Charlotte.
Speaking of giving, as we head down the final stretch of my year in 2014, let me remind you about the bet that PP Jim Lubinski and I made with the Phoenix 100 Club. We have a $1000 bet (winner’s choice of charity) with regards to the following: 1) one point for largest/smallest decrease in membership 2) one point for largest per capita giving to Rotary International 3) one point for the Club with the highest percentage of Paul Harris members. When we last checked with Phoenix 100’s President Jerry Oliver, we were ahead but he was pushing hard to catch us. If you are looking to finish your Paul Harris in 2014, now is a great time to do it so it counts towards our bet!
I write these comments on Friday before the weekend so I cannot give you a report on our work day project at the Y Camp in Oracle. I know we will have fun and provide some great community service to this worthy operation. We have found many pictures recently of Susan’s brothers at the Camp back in the early 60s, as it was their only opportunity to experience summer camp, which was provided at no cost to kids who could not afford to attend. If you have more interest in the Camp, there is a very cool annual dinner they do before Camp begins that involves the introduction of their student counselors and a nice tour of the facility. The counselors are international students and some local and more experienced kids who share a passion for the Camp. The date is June 6th and if interested, let me know. We went last year and it is a fun evening. See you Wednesday.
In 2011, the Arizona State Museum’s Native American basketry and fiber collection was awarded the coveted designation as an American Treasure through the federal Save America’s Treasures program. A new state-of-the art facility to store this collection and share it with the public will open in 2015. Two of the curators of this peerless collection will share highlights through a slide presentation and show-and-tell.
The Rotary/Goodwill Industries Spring Clothes Closet Cleaning Day will be held on Wednesday, May 14th. Bring all your gently used clothes. The Goodwill truck will be in the parking lot starting at 11:00 a.m.
The Vocational Service Committee will be on hand to assist you in loading your donations onto the truck. Thank you!
Rotary/Goodwill Industries - Clothes Closet Cleaning Day - May 14th
During the May 7th meeting, club members will hear presentations from the “Final Four” candidates for portions of the 2014 TCCS net proceeds. This is very significant money for these organizations. Based on your vote after the presentations, two of the organizations will be recommended to receive 20% of net proceeds and two will receive 5% of net proceeds. The 2014 nominees are: Casa de la Luz Foundation, Tucson Youth Development, Carondelet Foundation/St Joseph's and Imago Dei Middle School.
We had a great meeting with a very emotional program about Special Olympics in Arizona. The national anthem was a “special” treat sung by Nathan Womack. This is a great program that has been ongoing for many years and the many participants show extreme courage and warmth and love.
We had some fun about Membership. Please wear your pin. As I mentioned, we are all part of the top service club brand in the world and our best way to increase awareness about who we are and what Rotary International is all about, starts with a proud display of the Rotary pin. I have a few more stories from the past year as President. Let’s just say, I wear something Rotary International everywhere I travel in the world, and it is amazing how people share their stories when they recognize the brand.
May kicks off our Membership Month. There is no better way to start a conversation with someone by wearing the Rotary pin. I am asking everyone to consider hosting one guest/potential member this month. Call me crazy, but there is no reason why we cannot edge our way above the 250 member mark. It won’t happen in my year but it could happen in PE Mary Martin’s year if we try. Speaking of membership, our Club could be more diverse. Ask yourself, “who should I invite” for this month. Together, we can introduce more quality folks to the Rotary spirit of changing our communities and changing the world.
Our work project at the Y Camp is coming up May 10th. We can use some more helpers. It is going to be a fun filled day and we are having a nice BBQ. The work will be easy and it will be nice and cool! I will announce the car pooling location on Wednesday. It will probably be Magee and Oracle.
Finally, this week’s program will be presentations from our selected charities. We will vote on the distributions and it should be a great program. If you are MISSING THE MEETING, look for an email from the Club with the condensed presentations and remember to vote by email. See you Wednesday.
PAULINE HECHLER opened the meeting with a wonderful invocation. BOB LOGAN led the pledge and invited Special Olympian Nathan Womack to sing the Star Spangled Banner.
JEFF RONSTADT introduced our guests and visiting Rotarians. We recognized KATHY KITAGAWA for having a birthday this week.
JENNIFER HOFFMAN recognized winners in the raffle. Your mystery editor is reviewing the Four-Way Test now to see if any infractions were committed. It seems a little strange that PRESIDENT DAVE GALLAHER won three bottles of wine in the raffle…
Arla Stader was recognized for this being her last Rotary meeting before she rides off into retirement. Arla was given a standing “O” for all her hard work for the Club. Well done Arla!
PRESIDENT DAVE made most of the announcements today. He thanked everyone for their participation in the District Conference with a special thanks to LISA FOGLE for arranging the food in the hospitality room. PRESIDENT DAVE invited everyone to participate in the work day at the YMCA Camp on May 10th. He encouraged everyone to wear their Rotary pins and remember that May is Membership Month. Everyone should bring a guest to a Club meeting in May.
BOB ERNSTEIN also promoted the Rotary Clothes Closet Cleaning Day. Bring your gently used items to Rotary on May 14th.
BOB LOGAN introduced today’s program which was Tim Martin, Executive Director of Special Olympics of Arizona. It was a very inspirational and wonderful program! Nathan Womack closed the meeting with a wonderful song.
I want to give a special thank you to BOB SHAFF who supervised me extremely closely during the meeting. BOB expressed concern over my note taking ability, or lack thereof to be precise, and was unsure whether my memory would last long enough to recollect what had happened during the meeting. Being considerably younger than BOB… I was able to race back to my office and everything typed up and sent in to the Rotary office. Note: Received in the Rotary email at 2:32 p.m. Wednesday.
President DAVE GALLAHER called the meeting to order right on time. CLEM LESLIE gave the invocation.
TED FORSBERG led us in a stirring rendition of “America the Beautiful”, accompanied by GARY HIRSCH on the piano.
President DAVE noted that last week we collected $203 in the Scholarship cups and encouraged everyone to pass the cup. We then enjoyed a delicious lunch of chicken marsala.
YVONNE ERVIN introduced our guests and visiting Rotarians. Happy Birthday to ANN LANCERO.
President DAVE designated May as ‘Membership Month’ and asked all the members to focus on bringing a guest at least once during the month.
MARY MARTIN introduced KOLD news anchor Dan Marries. He led a spirited ‘Town Hall’ meeting with Congressmen Ron Barber and Raul Grijalva. They covered a wide range of topics including; the Affordable Care Act, Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Education, the importance of caring for veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan, the Rosemont Mine, and immigration.
President DAVE concluded the meeting with a timely quote and a toast.
Through the joy of sport, the Special Olympics movement here in Tucson continues to transform lives, not only the lives of those who participate as an athlete or partner, but also those who witness an athlete's determination and achievement. Special Olympics also continues to change lives by changing people's thinking about those who have an intellectual disability.
More and more, we are seeing friendships develop when Unified Sports brings together individuals with and without intellectual disabilities. These friendships serve as shining examples of an authentic bond between two people who are more alike than they are different from each other.
All Rotarians have a life outside of Rotary and all Presidents face some challenges during their year. This past week, we lost Susan’s mom, Marie Christine Gaudielle. Since you all are our friends I thought I would share a little bit about Marie. Marie was an incredible woman who faced many hardships during her life but always managed to be a positive force in and around anyone she ever met. She raised five children on her own during the 60s and 70s when that was a different time for single mothers. She had relatively little material things and had no use for them but she marveled at the world and stopped each day to admire a sunset, her hummingbird feeder, her favorite roadrunner, the current weather, her bridge club, and of course her grandchildren and great grandchildren. She was a wonderful grandmother to all of our RYE students and was most supportive of Susan and myself in all of our Rotary activities. She particularly loved our Club home hospitality and we always included her and she enjoyed telling many stories of the “old” Tucson days. She was a resident of Tucson for sixty years.
She particularly enjoyed talking and joking with Herb Bloom whom we always invited over for those affairs as he lived close by.
Marie was a consummate care giver herself when she went back to school and got her LPN license. She spent ten years providing the best possible love and care to her husband Dr. Andrew Gaudielle who would pass from Parkinsons. She had a voracious appetite for reading all things and could easily discuss any subject. She was a scrabble warrior and a professional cross word puzzle person.
Like most grandmas, she spent the holidays with me in our kitchen arguing about the best way to make gravy. They were fun arguments and she always won. She also had a tough time figuring out my wacky sense of humor and finally figured me out. In the early part of my 25 years with Susan, she was not always fond of my fishing trips, but learned how much they meant to me and finally accepted the meaning of them as I was her favorite son-in-law (the only one) and she was my favorite mother-in-law. So it is affectionately appropriate that I did not make this past week’s trip. She taught me valuable lessons of tolerance for others.
She spent the last two and half months in Kanmar Place, which is part of Casa de la Luz. She went in knowing her caregivers would be fantastic and we are forever grateful for their love and care. I do not know how these beautiful people do what they do. I know that many of our membership are caregivers now or at some point in their lives, and it is the last act of kindness for those we cherish and love.
Thank you to Dorinna and Mary this past week for your help. Thank you everyone for your thoughts and prayers. My wife Susan had an incredible journey with her mom this past two and half months and Susan is a rock star. There are no services planned but a memorial will be held in the not so distant future.
Incoming President, MARY MARTIN did a wonderful job directing a somewhat irregular meeting format filling in for President DAVE GALLAHER. PAT ZUMBUSCH did his usual excellent job with the invocation and LESLIE GALLOWAY led us in the pledge and song, accompanied by ELLIE PATTERSON as we sang the ‘Star Spangled Banner’. Because of a tight schedule for our guest speaker, LONNIE LISTER provided a singular welcome to the 7 visiting Rotarians and 35 guests.
U of A Athletic Director and honorary Rotarian GREG BYRNE introduced Coach Rodriguez characterizing him as the “entire package and full of energy”. Greg further commented that because of Coach Rodriguez “if U of A football were a stock, it would be a hell of a buy right now”.
Coach Rodriguez shared he believes the wide receivers are the best he has ever coached. There are seven high quality QB’s now and probably nine in the fall but he expects to carry about six for the season. Coach addressed the question about his plans of staying at the U of A head on. He stated he would like to finish his career here which brought loud applause. There was a humorous moment during the Q&A when the Athletic Director for Pima Community College introduced himself and PCC’s head coach by asking if they could have QB’s 7, 8 or 9 which brought a good laugh. Coach Rodriguez made his exit by walking thru the crowd shaking hands and saying hellos to a standing ovation.
GREG BYRNE gave a presentation explaining the importance of filling the stadium and he shared a funny but pointed You Tube video of Coach Rodriguez concerning the proposed 10 second rule. If you missed the meeting, look for ‘Arizona Speed’ on YouTube.
BILL MOORE gave a short heads up on the selection of the four finalists who will make presentations to us on May 7th. Three Happy Jacksons ended the meeting.
Ron Barber (born August 25, 1945) has been a member of the United States House of Representatives from Arizona, served as district director for U.S. Representative Gabrielle Giffords who resigned her seat. He won the Democratic nomination for the special election to finish Giffords' term and was sworn into office on June 19, 2012.
In the 2012 general election, he was elected to a full term. His district—numbered as the 8th district in 2012, and as the 2nd district since 2013—includes the eastern two-thirds of Tucson, as well as the southeastern corner of Arizona. Barber is running for re-election in 2014.
We missed President Dave this week, but he was with his wife and family as they spent time with Susan's mom in her last moments in this life. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.
I had the honor and privilege of conducting the meeting as we heard from both Coach Rich Rodriguez and Greg Byrne. We had a packed house and it was nice to see so many wearing our school colors. Coach Rodriguez is enthusiastic about our team this year and is encouraged with the progress that our football program is making. It was a good reminder from both the coach and Greg Byrne about the importance of our support of UA Athletics. Wearing the school colors on Fridays, buying season tickets and attending the games helps with getting great recruits and is a strong economic driver for our community.
We are excited to be hosting our "Town Hall" meeting with Congressman Raul Grijalva and Congressman Ron Barber, moderated by Dan Marries with KOLD. Remember to register your guests on Club Runner. Next week is also our District Conference at the Tucson Hilton East, April 25th, 26th and 27th. Please register for the various sessions and learn more about Rotary, our District and meet fellow Rotarians from District 5500.
We look forward to seeing you next Wednesday and remember to bring a guest. A strong and thriving membership is how we're able to do all the wonderful community and international projects that our club is known for. Thank you.
Rich Rodriguez enters his third season as head coach of the Arizona football program. He was introduced as the 30th head coach on Nov. 22, 2011.
Entering the 2014 season, Rodriguez carries a career record of 136-94-2 in 20 seasons, marked by Division I records of 60-26 at West Virginia, 15-22 at Michigan and 16-10 with the Wildcats. He began his head coaching career at Salem (W.Va.) University in 1988 and then coached at Glenville State (W.Va.) from 1990-96.
In Rodriguez’s second season, the Wildcats against posted an 8-5 record with a bowl victory over the Boston College Eagles in the AdvoCare V100 Bowl in Shreveport, La. Arizona also knocked off a top-10 ranked team for the second-straight season with a 42-16 win over No. 5 Oregon on Nov. 23.
It’s a broken record from the President. We had another great program this past week with Chef and Restaurant Owner Janos Wilder. I often wonder how these Chef Owners keep at it for so long. Working and running a restaurant is so difficult. I think Janos answered my question - Passion. We had a lucky break to have 15 minutes of questions for Chef and he is so passionate about his cooking and his business. I think it would be fun to book a cooking class with him for RCOT!
We have so many wonderful things happening around town. Thank you to the Boys and Girls Club for donating four tickets to the EVENT which was last Sunday April 13. Thank you also to Bobby Larson for donating two more tickets for our raffle. There is a long history of working together and thanks to Mark Irvin in helping secure the donation along with new member Linda Wojtowicz, who is the new Executive Director/CEO of BGCT.
We introduced RCOT’s newest Honorary Member, Mayor Jonathan Rothschild. This was special for me as we have known each other since 8th grade and while not the closest of pals for the past 46 years (yikes), our spirit of contributing to making a better community in Tucson are similar. Welcome to Rotary Mayor! RCOT has a long history of having several Mayors of Tucson as Honorary Members since 1921. If anyone sees him without that Rotary pin, let me know! To set the record straight, it’s a lot easier to find dirt on your current President than our Honorable Mayor! Just ask Pat Lennan.
Please know that we have lots of events happening. April 25-27 is the District Conference. We will have a hospitality suite at the Hilton East on Friday evening 5-7:30PM to enjoy fellowship with fellow Rotarians from all of southern Arizona. The District Conference luncheon on Friday kicks off the conference and there will be many informative sessions about the latest happenings in all of Rotary International.
May 10th is a work project day at the Send A Kid To Camp - YMCA camp in Oracle. It is a Saturday and will last from 9-3 with a BBQ involved. We will be painting and nailing something!
It is great to have our UA Football Coach back to talk about this year’s team. There is a lot happening with our football squad this year.
April 23rd is our Congressional Panel with Representatives Grijalva and Barber. Dan Marries will be our host moderator for the question and discussion portion of the program. Please submit all questions to Cheryl House and Ellen Wheeler in advance (Cheryl.house@pima.edu and ewheeler1017@gmail.com.)
I am off to Billings, Montana to fly-fish the Big Horn River which is one of my favorite fisheries in the US. I am travelling with fellow member Dr. Ed Cole and I am hoping for reasonable weather. Anything can happen in Montana. Thanks to Mary for filling in!!
President DAVE started the meeting on time, and judging from the Kazoo’s that greeted him, I thought a raucous meeting was in store. That was the last we heard from them, they must have known in advance the mayor was going to be in the audience.
PAULINE HECHLER, in honor of our speaker Janos, opened the invocation with a number of her favorite stories. My favorite is courtesy of WC Fields, “during one of my treks through Afghanistan, we lost our corkscrew. We were compelled to live on food and water for several days.”
TOM ANDREWS was honored for his birthday and his excellent club service the last 12 years. His favorite band is the Doobie Brothers which made him feel like 50 again, much better than the other definition of Doobie, being tired and hungry.
President DAVE introduced the club’s newest honorary member, Mayor JONATHAN ROTHSCHILD. Both went to high school together and were involved in community service at an early age under the auspices of the Kiwanis Club. Little did they know that was their training to be Rotarians.
Next week we have the U of A football Coach, Rich Rodriguez as the speaker, please make sure all guests are registered as a large turnout is expected.
BOB LOGAN made the usual colorful introduction of our speaker, Janos Wilder, who got into the restaurant business by way of Cal Berkley 1976, with a degree in Poli Sci (I thought that was what all the lawyers did). Currently Janos is part of the downtown revitalization of Tucson.
Continuing with Reading Seed recognition, the Rotary Club of Tucson has nine Reading Seed Coaches serving Robison Elementary. Three of these continue to serve even though they are no longer active members of the Club. Cliff Bowman, Burt Strug, Dick Sanderson, Roger Harwell, Charlotte Harris, Jon Wang. Jan Seagondollar, Don Laidlaw and Michael Apsell are former members who continue to serve.
If you missed last week’s meeting you missed another great program from Dr. Fayez Ghishan from the University of Arizona Steele Children’s Research Center. He spoke a great deal about our gut! Yep, that’s right. It was about the connection between our brains and our stomach. The program got a standing O from RCOT. The guy really knows his stuff. We are so lucky to have doctors of this caliber in our community and we toasted the Doctor and his colleague at the end of the meeting.
Thanks to Sid Hirsh for donating $60 to RI matching a dollar for each year his business has been open. Congratulations to member Sid. What’s that address?
April is a very busy month for Rotary and our District 5500. We have our District Conference April 25-26 at the Hilton East. RCOT will have a hospitality suite Friday beginning about 5 PM and ending at 7:30. Please volunteer to spend an hour in the suite hosting our Southern Arizona Rotarians. It’s a lot of fun and meeting new and old friends is a great tradition. Come Friday afternoon and enjoy a session or two and a glass of wine at the RCOT Hospitality Suite. It’s free!!
The District Conference is free!!! The only thing you pay for is if you eat a meal. The Conference kicks off at 11:30 on Friday, April 25.
We have an exciting month also for programs with two of the biggest scheduled for April 16 and April 23. On April 16, we will have the University of Arizona Football Coach Rodriguez. Please spread the word and friends can register on Clubrunner. Additionally, the following week on the 23rd we will have our Congressional Panel with Congressmen Raul Grijalva and Ron Barber. The discussion will be moderated by Dan Marries from Channel 13 News. Please submit any questions you might have to Ellen Wheeler (ewheeler1017@gmail.com ) or Cheryl House (Cheryl.house@pima.edu) . There will be a maximum of three questions per any topic so we can cover as many different subjects as time will allow. Our program will last longer that day so be prepared to stay until 1:30.
We just booked our Change of Administration Party to be held June 21 at Skyline Country Club. We will be having a buffet and live entertainment to celebrate out with the “old” and in with the new! We are finalizing cost for this event and should have registration capability in just a few weeks. Speaking of “change” please remember our membership drive for May! Think about who might make a good Rotarian.
RCOT is joining the Tucson Hispanic Chamber of Commerce! This will provide plenty of opportunities to network the Rotary Club of Tucson with one of Tucson’s fastest growing business networking groups. We have slots open for any members to represent the RCOT at special events etc., such as the Fall version of 40 Under 40 which honors some of the best and brightest business individuals who will make a difference in Tucson. THCC sponsors many events during the year that represent opportunities to promote the RCOT. Membership will get us reduced rates to most if not all of their functions. If you have an interest in representing the RCOT at these functions please give Dorinna a call.
Speaking of PE Mary Martin, thanks to Mary who will be covering me for April 16 while I am fishing in Montana. See you next week.
Pledge and Song led by new member LONNIE LISTER who was presented his blue badge by PAT ZUMBUSCH. Welcome Lonnie!
CHARLOTTE HARRIS and BOB LOGAN recognized 3 Paul Harris Fellows: Dorinna York (sponsored by JOE NEVIN), JON WANG, and DAVID VOLK. Many guests were introduced, the majority of which were women! I overheard BOB SHAFF telling two guests that this is the best Rotary Club in Tucson because it is the biggest. Benefits of BIG are: We have the power to attract great speakers, and with over 50 committees, the variety of activities makes it easier to get involved with something of interest to you. We can probably add more to this list, eh!
PAT ZUMBUSCH reported that the Tucson Classics Car Show season is upon us. He gave a great overview of what this club has accomplished over the last eight years with the car show. The TCCS has raised over $632,000 for local charities since it began!
Speaker – Dr. Fayes K Ghishan, MD, Director of the U of A Steele Children’s Research Center
Dr. Ghishan gave a great talk showing everyone that the key to good health is the bacterial flora in the gut. Some of the highlights were: The health of bacterial flora in our body determines a great deal of our overall health. Stress has a negative impact on the health of the gut’s bacteria. Gut bacteria can be “fingerprinted” which reveals a great deal about a person, even their temperament. There is a British dating service that uses stool samples to evaluate matches! Eat the strings on your bananas – they contain prebiotics that your gut needs. Obese rats can be restored to a healthy weight by simply implanting the bacteria from a normal weight rat into the gut of the obese rat.“The road to good health is paved with good intestines.”
We found this talk very interesting even if it seemed a bit gross!
Janos Wilder will discuss how he came to an understanding of the flavors of the border and what makes the flavors here in Southern Arizona unique. Janos will describe how the ecology of the region as well as the influence of Indian, Spanish and Mexican traditions have combine to create the ingredients, foods and flavors that define our culinary identity. The talk will end with a discussion of a new initiative to name Tucson a UNICESCO City of Gastronomy.
Honorary RCOT member, Dr. Lee Lambert, gave us a good presentation on the linkages to the business community that Pima College is striving to complete. Lee has his work cut out for him and we hope he accomplishes a lot during the next few years. Pima College is a valuable asset to our students and to our business community.
The Tucson Classics Car Show revs its engines this week and we will hear about some of the people logistics of this year’s show. Tickets are available.
We have some important dates coming up and we need some help. April 25 is the beginning of the District Conference and RCOT is hosting a hospitality suite Friday from 5:00PM-7:30PM. Please help us welcome the many Rotarians and bring your spouse or significant other. We have ten slots available. Please let Dorinna know if you can help out.
We also want to remind you that the District Conference is free. You can attend as many or as few meetings as you would like. The only thing you pay for are the meals. We will be hosting a reception for incoming DG and RCOT member, Sally Montagne, on Saturday at 5:00PM. We want to show a good attendance of RCOT members to welcome Sally.
May 10, 2014 - 9:30AM to 3:00PM (Saturday) we have a work day planned for the Y Camp near Oracle. Please send a note to Marcia or John Harlow if you can help do some painting and have a wonderful lunch.
Please remember to wear your pin as you never know who you will run into and what story you might hear. Don’t miss the fun. It happens every day! See you Wednesday.
UA Steele Center Director Fayez K. Ghishan, MD — internationally-renowned pediatric gastroenterologist and ground-breaking researcher—is passionate about your gut! He will present scientific research that shows why you really are what you eat. Current research reveals that having a healthy gut profoundly influences your health. Dr. Ghishan will discuss topics ranging from food allergies, common GI disorders, and strategies for maintaining a healthy gut—a key component to a long and healthy life.
Fayez K. Ghishan, MD is an internationally recognized physician scientist. He is a Professor of Pediatrics and Head of the Department of Pediatrics at The University of Arizona Medical Center, Director of the Steele Children’s Research Center, and Physician-in-Chief of the Diamond Children’s Center.
Dr. Ghishan's expertise is on gastrointestinal diseases in children.
"Listen To Your Gut: Strategies for a Long, Healthy Life"
It’s time to hit the books! Pima Community College’s Chancellor Lee Lambert addresses Rotary.
President, DAVE GALLAHER, opened the meeting and TED KIRACOFE provided the invocation. JOEL BLACK led us in pledge and song, accompanied by the talented ELLIE PATTERSON on piano and the animated DAVID PASHKOW conducted.
The introduction of our guests and visiting Rotarians was provided by “Car Show King”, Jerry Harris. The birthday bunch was recognized - JON WANG- 31 yearmember (WOW!), DON ROLLINGS, ELLEN WHEELER, and RICHARD WHITE.
The new member introduction was provided by ANDREW MARTIN, who introduced new member, JOEL BLACK, former President of the 20/30 Club and soon to be married in May!
Our Sergeant of Arms, JENNIFER HOFFMAN announced the lucky raffle winners. They were the recipients of coupons, Bookmans gift certificates, Car Show glasses, Desert Museum passes and more! Announcements were made DAVE GALLAHER, MARCIA KRUMWEIDE, YVONNE ERVIN and AMY ALLEN. Good stuff…like passing grades! Our Rotary Club received Special Recognition for the Governor’s Volunteer Service Award. For the Community Food Bank, we raised over $872 and provided over 46 pounds of food. Our Rotaract Club is up and running at the U of A under the leadership of YVONNE ERVIN and student President AMY ALLEN. Golf claps and back slaps…KUDOS Rotarians!
The program introduction was provided by CHERYL HOUSE. CHERYL welcomed her boss and Chancellor of Pima Community College, Lee Lambert. Chancellor Lambert spoke of his vision for PCC in the Tucson Community. He set forth goals that focused on building partnerships with employers through the integration of student curriculum and employers’ workforce needs. He stressed the importance of creating viable partnerships that centered on skill development, engagement, and the accountability necessary for students, employers and educational institutions to thrive in the future.
The collective words of wisdom from the “Birthday Bunch” on how to keep your children financially independent after their education- First, celebrate when they become independent and second, according to RICHARD WHITE, move and provide no forwarding address or phone number!
We had a very moving and inspirational program from PDG Gary Whiting from Phoenix about the Rotary Gift of Life Program. If you missed it, you missed learning about a great program that brings heart surgery to young people around the world. As many of you remember, Susan and I hosted the family of Katia, who was 14 years old and needed a hole in her heart repaired so she could have a full and normal life. Her surgery was successful at UMC and she is now playing basketball again, her favorite sport. We had never heard of this program and we were so taken back by the acts of kindness and love for this young girl by Rotarians and Doctors that it was an obvious choice for me to have Gary come and participate as a club program. It is a remarkable program and I hope you might consider a contribution no matter how small. The Doctors were amazing and they are so enthusiastic and committed to being a part of this life changing program.
This is the beginning of a busy season for events around town and thanks to Mike Schulte for donating two tickets to the Boys and Girls Club EVENT slated for Sunday April 13 at La Encantada. We raised $200 for the Club Foundation.
We have a work project for the YMCA camp on the back side of Mt. Lemmon scheduled for May 10. This will be about a six hour day of painting and eating a nice picnic BBQ prepared by the staff. If you have not visited this camp, this is a great opportunity to see this wonderful facility and learn more about the Send A Kid To Camp program that raises money for underprivileged children to spend a week of fun filled camp. We will most probably be performing simple repairs and a lot of painting. Please join us. It has been many years since we were last there performing a work project. It should be a blast.
Please remember to attend the District Conference even if it is just for the RCOT Hospitality Suite at the Hilton East on Friday April 25, 5-7PM. Good food and libation and fellowship will prevail. We can use some help staffing the suite. The programs on both Friday beginning at lunch and Saturday promise to be informative and fun.
Erin Go Bragh! For the non-Irish among us, that means Ireland Forever! And walking into a sea of green jackets on Wednesday, it certainly felt like we were transported to Dublin. The festivities continued with Rotary’s own leprechauns, with ELLIE O’PATTERSON on piano, leading us in a rendition of “When Irish Eyes Are Smiling,” and corned beef & cabbage was enjoyed by most.
The lovely and talented DOT KRET welcomed guests and then took the mic over again for a special rap to celebrate her birthday. Happy 30th Anniversary to her firm, DK Advocates! Other birthday celebrants were TED FORSBERG and JOE PENNINGTON, who promised he will be skiing on his 70th birthday next year.
SCOTT VAUGHN and HUGH THOMPSON were honored for their annual commitments to the Paul Harris Society, and Eagle Scout JOHN LEWIS will be honored by the Boy Scouts Catalina Council with their Construction Lending for Life award. Yes, that really was BOB SHAFF on TV during the Pac-12 tournament. Requests for volunteers were as plentiful as green beer on St. Patrick’s Day: MARCIA KRUMWIEDE-TIMS pitched for volunteers at the upcoming Community Food Bank project, and STACIA DECKER put out the call for ticket-sellers at the 4th Avenue Street Fair.
Past District Governor 5510 Gary Whiting shared an update on the good work of Gift of Life-AZ and introduced us to some of the amazing doctors who donate their time and talent to save lives of children with congenital heart defects. Since 1985, Gift of Life-AZ has operated on 302 children in 24 countries worldwide. Our own President DAVE GALLAHER and First Lady Susan hosted the 300th patient in their home last October, and Prez O’GALLAHER topped off the pot o’ gold with a gift of $1000 from his club discretionary fund. SLÁINTE!
On Friday, April 4th at the Proscenium Theatre, Pima County Community College, Tucson Kino Rotary Club is supporting the ICAN Tango II event. This event supports The Claire Nelson Brain Tumor Program. They have negotiated a 20% discount on ticket purchases if you use the Promotional Code: KinoRotaryTango when making your online or phone reservation. Contact Carlos E. Garcia, Kino Rotary/Secretary at 520-270-1342 if you have any questions.
Lee D. Lambert has been Chancellor of Pima Community College since July 2013. Chancellor Lambert will discuss the activities PCC is undertaking as it works with area educators, businesses and community leaders to foster student success and economic development.
Once again we had a great musical program thanks to Sid Hirsh and Bob Logan. I think this may be the last one for the year unless the Program Committee surprises us. Dr. Jean-Paul Bierny is very passionate in his love of chamber music and we are so lucky to have this kind of talent and performance locally available for so little money.
This coming week we have PDG Gary Whiting from Phoenix presenting a program on Rotary’s Gift of Life Program that is sponsored by the state’s three districts. Just when you think you know a lot about Rotary’s programs, you find out something new and wonderful. As some of you might remember, Susan and I hosted the 300th young recipient of a life saving heart surgery by our own UMC here in Tucson. It was an amazing experience and something we will both remember for many years. We simply said yes and opened our home and have some new friends for life. Both Gary and Chuck Flint (Mr. Havasupai) will be attending as well as the three surgeons from UMC who give of their valuable time to change these young people’s lives. Don’t miss it.
We say goodbye for awhile to Darrell Stewart who is taking on a “temporary” assignment at a beautiful lodge in Sisters, Oregon. I checked it out on line and we all should consider a visit to his new home. Good luck Darrell and hurry back.
We are busy planning for the District Conference April 25-27 at the Hilton East. Unfortunately, as I mentioned, we lost our “Captain Social”, Darrell Stewart. We can use some help for the RCOT Hospitality Suite on Friday April 25, 5:00PM-7:30PM. Come help spend an hour in the suite and meet some new and old friends from around the District. Please know that the District Conference kicks off on Friday at noon with a luncheon. Registration is free to our membership and all you pay is for meals if you would like to eat at the conference.
Most importantly, RCOT is hosting a reception on Saturday April 26 for our own member and incoming District Governor, Sally Montagne. We will have a great time kicking off her unofficial start. Sally joins an interesting group of husband/wife couples that have both been District Governors. Who are the others? Come to the conference and find out. Our own past President Jim Lubinski has agreed to take on the role of Assistant District Governor for the next Rotary year under Sally’s leadership.
Finally, we have a work day coming Saturday, March 22, at the Community Food Bank. Come and have some fun fellowship with club members and help our local food bank. We are also planning a work day for May 10 at the YMCA Camp at Peppersauce Canyon. This will hopefully become a tradition for our Club in the future to support this great program that provides kids their only camp experience each summer.
Happy St. Patrick’s Day (my favorite holiday) and see you Wednesday.
At the stroke of Noon, President DAVE GALLAHER welcomed Rotarians and Guests.
New Member, MICHELLE FELIX gave a well prepared Invocation. LESLIE GALLOWAY led with the Pledge and provided the vocal talent for “My Country Tis of Thee”. Mr. “well organized” DARRELL STEWART gave a warm welcome to Guests and Visiting Rotarians. To our surprise, DARRELL informed us that for the next few months he will be spending his work efforts between Sisters, Oregon and the Old Pueblo.
We promised a “birthday toast” on March 17th to ELLIE PATTERSON … best wishes, ELLIE!
President DAVE called special attention to a new author – JERRY HARRIS. His first book “A Broken Circle” is available on Amazon. Congratulations, JERRY!
Our Leader had a special visit with Past President HAL ADAMSON. HAL joined Rotary on October 1, 1955 and was Club President 1961-1962. HAL shared memories of the days of “50 cent fines”. He is a great example of a dedicated Rotarian. Thanks, HAL!
Sergeant At Arms JENNIFER HOFFMAN was on duty. Prizes were awarded to six lucky winners of the Raffle. MARCIA KRUMWIEDE (TIMS) asked for support for the Food Bank on March 19, 2014, plus a work project on March 22, 2014.
President DAVE asked for a volunteer to help with the Centerpieces and the Tucsotarian.
SID HIRSH introduced a special luncheon speaker and program. Dr. Jean-Paul Bierny, born in Belgium, has practiced radiology for 37 years in Tucson. He has been president of The Arizona Friends of Chamber Music for 35 years. After a brief explanation of Chamber Music, we had the pleasure of listening to the Southwest String Quartet. To quote Dr. Bierny, “gorgeous music with artistic presence.”
The Gift of Life-Arizona (GOL-AZ) became a 501 (c) (3) project of the Rotary Club in the Arizona Rotary Districts 5490, 5500 and 5510 in the mid 1980’s with the mission to provide medical and surgical intervention for needy children from around the world who are suffering from congenital heart defects. Over these many years, they have established a working relationship with Pediatric Cardiologists and Surgeons in Arizona, Mexico and India.
GOL-AZ’s long term goal was to provide the assistance to 300 children by year end 2013. This goal was realized this last October with the 300th child receiving heart surgery at the University of Arizona Medical Center by heart surgeon, Dr. Michael Teordori. The GOL-AZ project has now helped 302 needy children from 24 countries, of which 29 are from Arizona, have an opportunity for a more normal and health life.
Below are some pictures from another successful AZ Tri-District PETS this past weekend in Phoenix, AZ.
Incoming RI President and wife, Sally Montagne - incoming District Governor, Jim Lubinski - incoming Assistant District Governor and members of our club.
Lindsay Bishop's favorite activities are catching rainbow trout in the streams near Sheridan, Wyoming and hunting deer in the Rincon Mountains. She was born in Brooklyn, New York. Her father owned a tire company and relocated to Tucson. Lindsay graduated from Catalina Foothills High School. While in high school, she worked at The Tack Room as a hostess. She met Kandie Vactor while working there.
Lindsay attended the University of Nevada at Las Vegas and secured a degree in Economics. While at UNLV, Lindsay continued to work at various jobs. The most interesting was being publicity agent for the Las Vegas Gladiators, the local Arena Football team. As part of that job, she wrote game stories as they occurred and distributed them to the local and national media.
After graduating from college, Lindsay returned to Tucson and was employed by Compass Bank as a Relationship Manager. Her job was to assist the bank's clients in securing mortgages and investing their various assets.
Continuing her theme of independence and entrepreneurship, Lindsay has recently launched a new business. Gold Standard Event Planning, her new business, focuses on weddings, Bar Mitzvahs, Showers, Birthdays, Corporate events, and any other outing or event that people need help pulling all the ends together for the event to be successful.
Lindsay recently married Corey Bishop. Corey is a Patrolman with the Tucson Police Department. He recently joined the Police Department after serving eight years in the United States Marines. Lindsay's love for the outdoors is shared with her husband. He comes from a family of hunting guides and outfitters and has worked as a hunting guide. Last fall, Lindsay bagged a four point buck with a single shot at four hundred yards. Her trout fishing background came from fishing the streams near Sheridan, Wyoming, where her family owns a ranch.
Lindsay joined The Rotary Club of Tucson two years ago at the suggestion of her father. She enjoys the social events, the weekly camaraderie, and helping with the Tucson Classics Car Show. Additionally, she is a long time New York Giants football fan. I assume she and I are the only ones in the club. She grew up being a Giants Fan. Her family are all New York Jets fans.
President DAVE GALLAHER opened with the promise of a full agenda and didn't disappoint. He announced that Arla Stader will be retiring soon, to be replaced by Pauline Spurgiesz. Our thanks to Arla for her exceptional service!
CLEM LESLIE gave the invocation, and STEVE PICKERING led the Pledge and Song, accompanied by ELLIE PATTERSON. PAUL HALLUMS did the honors for introduction of guests and visiting Rotarians.
Birthday kids were LISA FOGLE, who saw her "birthday gifts" in all her fellow Rotarians; Drew Vactor, with 28 years of perfect attendance and a report on the Phoenix 100 Club's 100th anniversary party; and new member TIM OVERTON.
CHARLOTTE HARRIS and MARIANNE FREITAS orchestrated the Paul Harris Fellowship presentations with their usual grace. Paul Harris honorees were CARMEN BERMUDEZ, GLENN EWING, honorary member FAYE MORRIS, DON CLARK, and JOHN COUSINS, plus a posthumous Fellowship in honor of John's deceased brother-in-law Tony.
Two new members were introduced -- TIM OVERTON, with National Bank of Arizona, sponsored by JIM LUBINSKI, and ALANA DURRENBERGER, a CPA and Tucson native, sponsored by LINDSAY BISHOP.
PAT ZUMBUSCH is ready for the 2014 car show -- he introduced MIKE ANDERSON to talk about the raffle prize Corvette for this year. Why a Corvette? Mike explained a Corvette appeals to older folks who remember its history and younger folks who think it's cool. All are willing to buy multiple tickets for chances to win the car, while few would buy multiple tickets for the show. Our 2014 car is a beauty with only 40,000 miles on it.
TUSD Superintendent H.T. Sanchez discussed a strategic planning process for the district. He applauded the work done under John Pedicone’s leadership and hopes to build on the accomplishments. The strategic planning process involves the community, including solicitation of community input via the internet. He also mentioned two planned infant and early learning centers that will primarily provide child care to teachers and secondarily to the community.
Wow! Check out that new hot Corvette that is the raffle car this year. Nice job by our automotive expert, Mike Anderson. Wish the first one was like this one!! We should have no trouble selling 30,000 tickets this year.
Dr. H.T. Sanchez, Superintendent, TUSD gave a great presentation about how the District is strategizing to improve the delivery of education in Tucson. Dr. Sanchez was interesting to listen to and as I said, I think we are lucky to have him here in Tucson. Education is the most important community asset that we have and business leaders look to our children as future employees with a solid educational background. One thing I would learn only after the meeting is that H.T. is a race car enthusiast. He has raced cars in Texas and has an impressive collection. Hmmm, I bet someone will sell him some car show tickets……he would make a great member of our Club and several of us are working on that.
Congratulations to our most recent Paul Harris Fellow awardees. We are well on our way to a record year for our Club and thank you Charlotte Harris for the work you do in making sure our members get on board and get their awards. Hard work!
I am off to NYC for a reunion with some of my closest pals to see a show. See you next week for another fun meeting.
The Arizona Friends of Chamber Music brings the world’s best chamber musicians to Tucson in three superb concert series:
The Evening Series which features top groups such as the Juilliard String Quartet, the Tokyo String Quartet, the Emerson String Quartet.
The Piano and Friends Series for piano solo or for duos with piano and another instrument, played by young rising stars (such as the legendary pianist Lang Lang - when he was only 18); and the acclaimed Tucson Winter Chamber Music Festival, which runs for one week in March (March 16-23, 2014).
PRESIDENT DAVE opened the meeting by giving an update on members who were recovering and those who had suffered a loss of a loved one. PAT ZUMBUSCH offered an invocation by reading some quotes about books and praying that we should emulate the teachings of the Good Book.
There is an all points bulletin for ALANA DURRENBERGER who did not show to do her pledge and song. However, by unanimous vote, JILL MADDEN was roped into doing her best to take over ALANA’s duties. Thank you JILL!
CAM MOORE introduced visiting Rotarians and guests before PRESIDENT DAVE recognized our birthday buddies, JILL MADDEN and KEN LIGHT.
It is always a special treat when CHARLOTTE HARRIS and MARIANNE FREITAS present PAUL HARRIS FELLOWS. This week we recognized ANN LANCERO, JOE DeCHATELET, PAUL HALLUMS, MIKE ORCUTT, and ALAN ROGERS.
Sergeant at Arms JENNIFER HOFFMAN auctioned off 2 U of A basketball seats offered by CLIFF BOWMAN.
TOM ANDREWS introduced Alejandro Soto who is a rotary exchange student from Peru. Alejandro is 15 ½ years old and presented a small video and slides of Peru, ‘the only country that has everything the planet has to offer’.
YVONNE ERVIN introduced our speaker, Brenda Viner, who is the co-founder of the Tucson Festival of Books. YVONNE then interviewed Brenda who told us of the upcoming event to be held at the University of Arizona March 15 – 16, 2014. It will be another “literacy masterpiece”, said Brenda. There will be famous authors like Scott Turow and retired U.S. Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O’Connor. Every penny of profit goes to Literacy Programs in Tucson and we were excited to learn that the event made $900,000 in the first five years.
The program ended with Ms. Viner signing the book ‘Marley Goes to School’, and a toast from PRESIDENT DAVE.
Founded in 1976, the Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona provides food for people in need, advocacy and nutrition education throughout Southern Arizona including Cochise, Graham, Greenlee, Pima and Santa Cruz Counties. The Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona is a member of Feeding America.
Last Year, The Community Food Bank distributed over 27 million pounds of food in Southeastern Arizona, enough food for more than 63,400 meals every day. For every $1 donated to the Community Food Bank, it can distribute nearly 4 meals.
The Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona operates its main warehouse in Tucson, the Amado Community Food Bank, The Green Valley-Sahuarita Community Food Bank, the Marana Community Food Bank, the Nogales Community Food Bank and the Caridad Community Kitchen.
The Community Food Bank assists families, in need, in a 23,106 square mile area of Southern Arizona with 125 employees, hundreds of volunteers and numerous agency partners.
Dr. H.T. Sanchez became Superintendent of the Tucson Unified School District last summer, pledging to stay on at least five years. Dr. Sanchez, the TUSD Governing Board and other citizens are in the midst of creating a five-year strategic plan and Dr. Sanchez will give us the highlights of the plan in progress.
Last year, we sold over 8,000 tickets at events staged in our community. Thanks to Jim Lubinski and Bookmans we were able to sell tickets at the Tucson Festival of Books. Despite high winds and rain on Saturday, we sold over 800 tickets. Another boost to our sales was provided by Tony Pedroza who was responsible for our first appearance at the Fourth Avenue Street Fair. This was triggered by a suggestion by Marianne Freitas and David Pashkow. Despite the loss of the Tucson Padres this year, we should have another successful year.
I do not set specific sales goals for us, at least publicly. My primary goals are to promote our club in the community by engaging people at the events. They see us working to help charities in our community. One of our messages is that all the money raised through ticket sales stays in Pima County and helps local charities. Last year our three charities all were focused on helping children. This message was well received by the community.
One great improvement last year was the expansion of the prize list. Previously, the Corvette was the only prize. This past year, five prizes were given. These five prizes were: 1. A beautiful 2004 Corvette, 2. A set of tires donated by Sean Furrier of Jack Furrier Tires. 3. A big screen TV donated by Chris Edwards. 4. A weekend stay in a spacious cabin in Greer, donated by George Darling. 5. A $100 gift certificate from Harlow Gardens, donated by Bill and John Harlow. The awarding of additional prizes made the purchase of a $5 raffle ticket much more attractive.
This year, Mike Anderson has found us another great Corvette convertible. This car is a 50th Anniversary edition. Only 11,000 of these cars were made and only 7,000 plus were convertibles. The uniqueness and exclusivity of this car will be a great selling point. While the other prizes have not been totally firmed up, early data shows that Bruce Tunze, Matt Blair, and Cindy Godwin, along with others are working hard to secure even better prizes and an attractive ticket to aid us in our sales. A lot of hard work and expertise goes on just to get everything ready for the events. Bruce, Matt, and Cindy hardly got any time off after the Car Show in October before they were preparing for the next show.
In addition, Bob Shaff has been working to secure dates. One of Bob's many talents is negotiating the always welcome zero charge to us for selling tickets. When we do have to pay, it is a minimal amount. Bob also designs and arranges for printing our signs and handouts for events.
Event sales are work projects. The shifts usually last from two to four hours. Bobby Larson, Bill Moore, Stacia Decker, and Allyn Bulzomi routinely work half or whole days. One tremendous boost to our sales efforts is provided by member spouses. Nancy Gutt, Karmyn Cousins, Peggy Zumbusch, Darlene Lennan, and Audrey Harris sold a lot of tickets last year.
This year's season starts on March 15 and 16 at the Tucson Festival of Books. On March 21-23, the 4th Avenue Street Fair, and the Spring SAHBA Show on March 28-30. Three big events in three successive weeks offers a challenge to our club. If you would like to help, please e-mail me at phillipgharris@yahoo.com or call me at 520-465-1466 or see me before or after the weekly meetings. I will have schedules with available shifts for you to work in the left back pocket of my jeans. Your help will be greatly appreciated. These events offer a great opportunity to meet and talk to people and help our community. There is no pressure to sell a specific number and no micro-management. We have fun. Come and join us. Your reward comes from the interaction with your fellow club members and people in the community who attend the events. The final reward is when Mr. Pat Zumbusch, this year's Car Show Chairman, hands out over $100,000 in checks to three deserving and appreciative charities at a meeting after the Car Show.
Get ready for the Festival of Books coming March 15-16 at the University of Arizona campus. Brenda Viner gave us an exciting outlook for the upcoming Festival at last week’s meeting. We are so lucky to have this great event and they still need volunteers. How fitting is it that March is Literacy Month for the Rotary year. Hopefully, we have great weather.
This past week we honored several Paul Harris Fellows. This is a valuable part of being a Rotarian. Thanks to all those members who participate in this program and contribute to Rotary International.
I also want to thank our members who donate items for our weekly raffles and auctions. The money raised from the raffles goes directly to our general fund to help defray expenses of the Club. Auction proceeds go to the RCOT Foundation and are used to build our corpus and for our various programs such as scholarships.
We have our District Conference coming up April 25 and 26. The registration is free to all our members and you only have to pay for meals you have at the conference. Two big evening events include the hospitality suites on Friday evening and our suite is one of them. We will also be hosting a reception (no host bar) for our member, Sally Montagne, the incoming District Governor for District 5500. Come on over and meet your fellow Rotarians from all over the District, make new friends and network with members.
By the time you receive this, several RCOT members including myself and incoming President Mary Martin will have attended the Phoenix 100 Club celebration of their 100th anniversary. It makes me think, what are we going to do to celebrate our 100 years in 2021? It’s not that far away. Please Facebook the Rotary Million Meals Project for a great video of their last packing event February 22 when they made their goal of 1,000,000 meals plus some. We contributed over 108,000 meals to this project and have a lot to be proud of in supporting this effort of Rotary Clubs in Arizona.
See you Wednesday and listen and meet HT Sanchez, the relatively new Superintendent of TUSD. Have a great week.
I think we got the Rodeo Day theme back into our traditions this past week. Thanks to those who took advantage and wore western wear and thanks to those who did not as we raised about $124 for the scholarship cups! Where else in the world do they let school out for the Rodeo? I don’t know. Speaking of Rodeo, thanks to Mark Irvin for helping me with beer sales for the Catalina Rotary Club on Friday. Mark and I had a blast and I realized I had not been to a Rodeo in many years. I think that both Mark and I agreed that the people watching was a definite highlight. We sold a lot of beer!
Speaking of community traditions, we had a great time at the golf tournament for one day last week. It was such a beautiful day. I sat out there wondering if the tournament will be back next year. It helps make people across the world realize how beautiful Tucson really is. Our weather in the 70s and 80s certainly caught the attention of many fans.
We concluded our musical programs this past week with the Barbershop Experience. It was a great show and those guys can really harmonize. Remember these guys next Valentine’s Day for a special song-o-gram for that special loved one.
This week’s program will be a special one as well. Make sure you come to the meeting. Speaking of coming to the meeting, we discussed and approved publishing members’ attendance that has fallen under 50% for the quarter. We will also reinstate the tradition of recognizing those who have 100% attendance during the year. Rotary International has loosened the requirements of attendance and somehow over the past few years, RCOT has also kind of loosened up our recognizing those who make 100% attendance and those that have fallen behind in attendance. We want to reach out to those members who are in this category and ask them to make some more meetings. We all can agree that our worlds are busy but do try to block out Wednesday to make our lunch meetings. You will be glad you did! You can also make up online or make up at another Club. It’s a great opportunity to network in the community.
We have several important dates coming up: April 5 is the District Assembly here in Tucson. All board members and committee chairs are encouraged to attend. This is an important opportunity to start organizing for the new Rotary year beginning July 1, 2014. Your PE Mary Martin has lots of plans for the year and by attending this informative meeting, you can play a part in making this coming year a success. Only four months to go for this Prez!
Also, we have the District Conference coming April 25-27 at the Hilton East Hotel on east Broadway. This year’s conference has lots of great sessions about Rotary topics. We will be sponsoring two events during the conference. First, we will be having a hospitality suite on Friday evening at the hotel. There are usually 10-20 hospitality suites Friday evening and attendance is free for all events unless you are eating lunch or dinner at any of the scheduled meals. Saturday evening RCOT will be hosting a reception for incoming DG Elect and RCOT member Sally Montagne. This will be a no host bar and h’orduerves before dinner. Let’s have some fun and celebrate her incoming year at this reception. This is a great opportunity for networking with Rotarians from all over southern Arizona.
We look forward to seeing you this week and enjoy the great Tucson weather!
Since 2009, the Tucson Festival of Books has been held annually over a two-day period on the campus of the University of Arizona. It has become one of the largest book festivals in the United States, with 450 authors, 300 exhibitors, and over 100,000 attendees. The event is free and open to the public. It includes readings and lectures, a science fair, a bi-lingual venue for Mexican authors, varied entertainment, and exhibitors ranging from local retailers and publishers to regional and national nonprofit organizations. A comprehensive festival guide is printed in the Arizona Daily Star shortly before the festival. The festival founders are Bill and Brenda Viner, Bruce Beach, Frank Farias and John Humenik. One of the founders, Brenda Viner will be interviewed for the program by Yvonne Ervin.
As of February 19, 2014, 18 new cases of Polio have been reported this year, fifteen cases from Pakistan and three cases from Afghanistan. On February 20, 2014, Rotary International announced grants totaling $36 million for the 2014 fight to End Polio. The Global Polio Eradication Initiative has set 2018 as a target date for the world wide elimination of Polio. The GPEI is an umbrella organization, operating under the auspices of the UN World Health Organization and UNICEF, that amasses the statistics on polio, makes policy, and administers funds from groups like Rotary and from countries.
Pakistan continues to be a frustrating problem area. 93 new cases were reported in 2013. Also, Syria posted 23 new cases in 2013 and all of them were traceable to the Pakistan strain of the virus. Many rebel fighters in the Syrian conflict are trained by Al-Qaeda in the northern provinces of Pakistan that are also the sites of most of the outbreaks of Polio in that country. As part of the Rotary Grant, $500,000 was directed to Syria.
The individual amounts of the grants were determined by UNICEF requests. Nigeria will receive the largest grant of $7.7 million. The importance of the grant to Nigeria is underscored by the fact that Nigerian refugees have spread the disease to neighboring African countries. Afghanistan received $6.8 million, Pakistan $926,000, Horn of Africa countries $2.73 million, Somalia $1.35 million, Cameroon $3.4 million, South Sudan $2.65 million, Sudan $1.25 million. Democratic Republic of the Congo $3.9 million, Niger $2.3 million and Burkine Fauso $2.1 million. The remainder of the Rotary funds will be used for research projects designated by Rotary International.
In addition, the United States has pledged over $200 million to help the Global Polio Eradication Initiative this year. On February 21st, the Wall Street Journal reported that the Pakistani Air Force conducted air strikes against Al-Qaeda strong holds in Northern Pakistan. The targeted sites are all in the area where most of the cases of Polio in Pakistan are being reported. How these renewed military actions by the often lethargic and feckless Pakistani military will affect polio vaccination efforts remains to be seen.
At present, polio vaccination workers in Pakistan are unable to operate in these provinces because of the physical danger. Local police in Pakistani cities and towns have proved ineffective in protecting polio workers and some policemen have been killed while trying to guard polio workers. In most countries, even Syria, efforts in the latter part of 2013 to increase vaccination efforts were successful and workers were not harmed. Hopefully, we will see positive results in 2014 from the extensive vaccination drives in most of the affected countries that occurred in the last quarter of 2013.
"Hiking is a decades old tradition in this club. 21 Rotarians/spouses/partners hiked the Grand Canyon last March, going down the South Kaibab Trail, spending two days at Phantom Ranch, then up the Bright Angel Trail two days later. This September 17-21, 2014 Rotarians/spouses/partners will repeat this fun experience. But we need alternates! It may be that not all the original 14 who are currently signed up to go will be able to do so. If you would like to be put on the list of alternates, please give Tom Andrews a deposit of $100 (refundable), and let Jeff Heath know, so he can make certain you have all the info you need, and answer all your questions."
PRECEDENT DAVE convened the meeting and asked members to sign get well cards for Dr. Sandy Sanderson, Gordon Shaw and Frank Zunno. Next, he asked for a Moment of Silence remembering former RCOT Member James Cocke who joined in 1987, resigned in 2003 and recently passed away.
SUSAN MOORE VAULT offered the invocation followed by MICHELLE FELIX who led the pledge and song accompanied by piano player ELLIE PATTERSON.
Members were then treated to a wonderful and lengthy rodeo poem artfully recited by TIM PUNTENNEY.
CHARLIE MEAKER introduced guests and visiting Rotarians. Next PRECEDENT DAVE introduced birthday boy JIM RUBOYIANES.
Perhaps in the true spirit of Rodeo Week, Sergeant of Arms JENNIFER HOFFMAN and PRECEDENT DAVE chose not to extract any fines this week.
CHRISTY VERTUCA received her Blue Badge, and then ROBERT O’BRIEN provided a Happy Jackson moment with good news about his son and two new grandchildren.
Members were asked to wear western wear this week for the Costume Contest and the DoubleTree Ballroom looked like the set of a John Wayne movie at Old Tucson Studios. It was noted that Rotarians helped organize the first Tucson Rodeo 50 years ago!
PRECEDENT DAVE announced our Costume Contest winners.
KANDIE VACTOR and DICK KOLASA were our member winners and Dr. Richard Dickson and Pauline Spurgiesz were our guest winners.
While technically there was no animal costume category, STU GOLDMAN created one by showing up dressed as a cow. Stu explained to PRECEDENT DAVE that he is dyslexic and when members were asked to come dressed as cowgirls and cowboys, he was confused and thought he was supposed to arrive dressed as a boy cow. While his cow costume was moving, Stu had many members scratching their double chins as they’ve always considered him more of an odd duck.
JEFF RONSTADT introduced our program – Frank Hartline and the Tucson Chapter of the Barbershop Harmony Society called “Touch of Gray.”
Just as MARSHALL DENNINGTON was sneaking out the back door around 12:45, Mr. Hartline told the group that quartets singing 4-part a cappella harmony in barbershops formed in the 1890’s and remained popular through the 1920’s.
The quartet entertained members with several tunes from the 1920’s and 1930’s and invited members to join in to sing “Let Me Call You Sweetheart.” The quartet’s final song, “I Don’t Know Why, I Just Do,” apparently is a favorite of PRECEDENT DAVE. Reliable sources have confirmed that whenever his wife Susan, his children, business clients or frankly anybody asks Dave to explain why he does any of the many strange things he does, his standard response is: “I don’t know why, I just do!”
PRECEDENT DAVE led the closing toast and adjourned the meeting early. Predictably, he didn’t know why, he just did!
Don Shropshire has lived an accomplished life. A member of the Rotary Club of Tucson since 1967, Don has served our Rotary Club and his community in an exemplary manner while garnering many well deserved awards for his professional accomplishments. Donald Gray Shropshire was born on August 6, 1927 in Winston Salem, North Carolina. He graduated from the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill with a degree in Commerce in 1950. He then went to graduate school at the University of Chicago Graduate School of Business. He obtained a degree in Hospital Administration in 1959. Don also has an Honorary Doctor of Laws Degree from the University of Arizona and Honorary Degree of Doctor of Education from Tucson University.
Don served in hospital management positions in Kentucky and Maryland prior to coming to Tucson Medical Center in 1967, where he served as President and Chief Executive Officer until his retirement in 1992. During that time he was founding director and Board Chairman of Partners Health Plan. Upon his retirement, he was named President Emeritus of Tucson Medical Center.
Don has been very active in local, regional, and national health care organizations, including service on the Boards of the American Hospital Association, the Healthcare Forum of the Arizona Hospital Association, and the Southern Arizona Hospital Council, the latter three as chairman. He was a founding member of the Voluntary Hospitals of America and served on its Board of Directors. He also is past Chairman of the National Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education.
Don’s civic service includes, but is not limited to, Arizona Chamber of Commerce, Chairman, Arizona Town Hall, University of Arizona College of Fine Arts, Deans Board as Chairman. Additionally, Don has served on the board of the University of Arizona Steele Memorial Children's Research Center, Tucson Economic Development Corporation, and Chairman of the Tucson Airport Authority.
Governor Bruce Babbitt appointed Mr. Shropshire in 1982 to the Arizona Board of Regents for an eight year term. He served as President of the Board from July 1987 through June 1988. Governor Symington appointed him to the Arizona Health Facilities Board in 1992 and he was reappointed in 1999 by Governor Hull. He has served as Director of First Interstate Bank of Arizona, the Tucson Electric Power Company, and Unisource. Don is listed in many Who's Who publications.
Don Shropshire received the Tucson Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce 1987 Man of the Year Award.
Don and his wife, Mary Ruth, have two children. Melanie David lives in Tucson and is Director of Waypoint Theater in Tucson. Devin is a broker for Wells Fargo in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Don and Mary Ruth have three grandchildren. In 1997, Don was named Tucson Father of the Year.
Before moving to Tucson, Don was active in civic work in Maryland and Kentucky. He joined the Rotary Club of Tucson in 1967. He served as Vice President in 1971, President in 1993-1994, and received perhaps the highest honor that can be achieved in the Rotary Club of Tucson, the Orville McPherson Award, in 2008. Don believes the biggest challenge confronting our club today is balancing social and service obligations. He notes that as our service obligations increase every year, it gets harder to balance these obligations with social events for club members to enjoy each other and cultivate friendships.
When asked about his favorite memory of being President of the Rotary Club of Tucson, Don smiled and said that he had a concern because we, as a club, had lost touch with the Bell Ringing Program of the Salvation Army. He said he approached Mike Anderson and asked if he would try to get us involved. Don says Mike's enthusiasm, energy, and organizational skills helped us launch a new era of successful fundraising with the Salvation Army.
Last, but not least, the always dapper Don Shropshire has the most impressive collection of bow ties in Tucson.
Pres DAVE opened the meeting right at noon. PAULINE HECHLER did the invocation and the pledge and song were done by Sonny (BILL COZINE) and Cher (VICKIE JACOBS). BILL, your voice is as good as ever. You are missed; come back. Then it was lunch time. Long time members will remember when the Doubletree food was referred to as the road kill of the day. No more. Thanks to the new chef, the Doubletree food is really tasty and enjoyable. Guests and visiting Rotarians were introduced by TIM OVERTON. There was only one birthday person - ROBERT O'BRIEN. Happy Birthday ROBERT! The Sergeants at Arms, JENNIFER and MARCIA were busy with the raffle, fines and announcements. JENNIFER informed us that they are going after anyone whose phone rings during the meeting. The fine is $100, and I can tell you from personal experience that no phone ring will be missed by SHERLOCK HOFFMAN.
MARGARET HIGGINS and the 4 Way Test Committee are looking for candidates for this prestigious award. Two members of the Presidio Rotary talked about their March 6th Fundraiser. Two Blue Badges were presented: CHER to MATT NANCE and TOM ANDREWS to DAVE WHITE. Our speaker, introduced by YVONNE ERVIN, was Dr. Banet Pavao-Zuckerman, Associate Curator Arizona State Museum and Associate Professor of Archaeology at the University of Arizona. Her talk which she gave enthusiastically was "The Joy of Archaeology at the Mission of Sorrows".
Barbershop Program for Feb 19th: After brief remarks about the original American art form of 4-part a capella singing in the barbershop style, the Barbershop Harmony Society and the Tucson Sunshine Chapter, the quartet "Touch of Gray" will demonstrate and perform this music and answer questions from club members. The quartet is composed of Lead Jim Hart, Tenor Don Lightfoot, Baritone Bill Archambeau and Bass Ken Sylvia. "Touch of Gray" is one of six registered quartets singing with the Tucson Sunshine Chapter and has altogether over 100 years of barbershop singing experience.
We learned a lot about our mission history from local archeologist Dr. Barnet Zuckerman. Interesting stuff and Dr. Zuckerman knows her subject matter. We have some great stuff going on at our Arizona State Museum and will hear another presentation from the Director several weeks down the road.
We will be celebrating Rodeo Week this week and we are looking to rekindle the tradition of wearing western garb at this week’s meeting. We will have a contest for the best dressed participant. Years ago, it was very traditional to come dressed for the Rodeo at a RCOT meeting. Let’s have some fun with this.
We have two sick members who have had surgeries the past couple of months. Dr. Sandy Sanderson and Gordon Shaw. Let’s keep them in our prayers and please remember to sign the Get Well cards at this week’s meeting.
We have lots of important dates coming up. April 25-27 is the District Conference to be held at the Hilton East on Broadway. Registration for you is already paid. The only thing you pay for are meals and you must register for those. You can attend any and all meetings for free. This is the one time of the year that all of the Club in District 5500 come together for sharing ideas and fellowship. The Fellowship part kicks off Friday evening at 5. We will be hosting the District Governor Elect soiree before dinner on Saturday in celebration of our own member, Sally Montagne, as the incoming District Governor.
The District 5500 Assembly is April 5 here in Tucson. This is a really important date for our board members and officers and committee chairs. Please try and make it. Information should be available soon about this important event.
Please look for registration information in the District Newsletter.
For our Club historians and to those that may not know, I forgot to mention that the first meeting of the Rotary Club of Tucson was February 14, 1921. Happy Birthday to RCOT, ninety three years old and still growing!
Rodeo and gem show and 80 degrees in Tucson! What a great place to be. See you Wednesday.
We had a great visit to the Club from Mike Candrea, Coach of the UA Women’s Softball team this past week. Coach gave a great talk about maintaining balance in life trying to balance work and home. His personal experiences in life have given him some unique perspective. I always have enjoyed listening to Coach Candrea during my years in RCOT. He just has a certain way about him that I have admired.
Before he left last week, I told him we would like to have a Rotary game day sometime during the season. He mentioned anytime we want to do that that he would help get us some tickets. How about it - sometime in April maybe?
We had a summary of the results of the Feed My Starving Children Mega Meal Packing Event celebrating 100 years of Rotary in Arizona. It truly was a fantastic and rewarding experience for those who volunteered to pack February 1. Many people have suggested we do it again. I will leave that for our PE Mary Martin to decide! Thanks again to those who wrote a check and to those who showed up to volunteer. Thank you.
Get ready for Rodeo Week in Tucson by dressing up in western garb for the February 19 meeting. I expect a costume contest will happen and all those without western wear will be fined of course. Stu Goldman is all ready planning his outfit!
There are a number of other Rotary Club events coming up the next few months. It is always fun to mingle with the other Clubs. Come join me in selling beer at the Rodeo for the Catalina Rotary Club. They have lots of spots open all four days. It should be a lot of fun and we can help the Catalina Club. Please see me for information.
This week we have an interesting presentation about anthropology from the University of Arizona.
Spanish colonial missions in the Pimería Alta, the name that the Spanish gave to the region encompassing southern Arizona and northern Sonora, are popularly depicted as isolated, frontier outposts lead by intrepid missionary heroes. However, recent research demonstrates that these missions engaged in economic endeavors that were regional, and even global, in scope.
Jim Sumwalt grew up in Michigan. When he was in the sixth grade, his father passed away. Jim took on any job he could get to help his family. His first job was de-weeding gladioli bulbs for twenty five cents an hour. In Benton Harbor, he delivered the News Palladium during his second and third year of high school. During his final year of high school, he pumped gas at the local Sinclair station. He had a bicycle during his freshman year in high school and bought a Cushman Motor Scooter during his sophomore year. Later he bought a 29 Model A Ford which he traded in on a 1939 Chevy during his senior year of high school.
After high school, Jim and his mother drove to Burbank, California. Jim worked as a letter carrier for the Postal Service. During his year and a half in California delivering the mail, Jim met Robert Wagner and Debbie Reynolds. Jim drove back to Michigan and enrolled at Michigan State in East Lansing. At the end of his second year at Michigan State, Jim married his high school sweetheart, Joann. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Geology.
He soon changed his focus to dentistry. He graduated from the University of Detroit with a degree in Dental Science in 1965 and practiced general dentistry for a while. He then went to the University of Montreal and attained a Masters Degree in Orthodontics. Jim and Joann wanted to live in a warmer climate. They chose Tucson and Jim opened up his Orthodontic practice on Fifth Street in 1971. He retired in 2009.
Jim joined Rotary in 1993. Before joining Rotary, he was a member of Tucson Executives and the Palo Verde Kiwanis Club. Jim was recruited into Rotary by Greg Oster and Emery Barker. He enjoys the fellowship with his fellow Rotarians and supporting Bell Ringing for the Salvation Army, along with Joann. He also supports the campaign to end Polio, and the Tucson Classics Car Show. Jim was President of the Tucson Orthodontic Society in 1979 and President of the Arizona State Orthodontic Association in 1982. In 1993, he was a Board Member of the Rotary Club of Tucson.
Jim and Joann have one child, Stacia, a Paul Harris Fellow. Stacia graduated from the University of Arizona and lives here in Tucson with her husband John Payne, a financial planner, and their twins. The twins, a boy and a girl, are “A” students and play basketball.
Marianne Freitas and Bob Shaff speak in glowing terms of Jim. Marianne counts him as a great Rotarian who has consistently supported the Tucson Classics Car Show. Jim is the all time sales leader in individual sales. Bob Shaff says that Jim is the best salesman for the Car Show. What impresses Bob the most are his consistent numbers and the simple formula he has for successfully selling tickets. First, he writes a hand written letter to 20 or more friends and business acquaintances and sends them 20 Car Show Tickets. In the letter he describes the charities we support. While no definitive statistics are to be had, Robert O'Brien and Jim are the all time leaders in Car Show tickets sold. Each have sold in the range of 800 to 1,100 every year.
Jim and Joann are enjoying retirement. Jim enjoys landscaping, movies, traveling to Alaska and Europe, and Rotary. Jim is not completely retired. He still looks after his commercial property at 1575 North Swan Road.
Wow! This will go down as one of the best meetings of the year even though several of us showed up at the Double Tree only to remember that we were meeting at the Radisson this week!!
Meeting Highlights included:
· Happy Birthday to Tim Puntenney
· Invocation by Jack Parris
· Pledge and Song with no piano led by Nancy Purdin (Great Job Nancy)
· Nancy Purdin was presented her Blue Badge by Jennifer Hoffman
· Bobby Larson introduced and welcomed several guests
· Charlotte Harris & Bob Logan recognized five Paul Harris Fellows
· Dave Gallaher reported on the Feed My Starving Children meal packing event of Feb. 1 noting that:
o Over 540 volunteers participated
o 108,842 meals were packed exceeding the goal of 100,000
o Over 150 kids participated giving them positive exposure to community service
· Hugh Thompson introduced a new member, Steve Pickering (Welcome Steve!)
· Marcia Krumwiede reminded us of a work project with Iskashitaa Refugee Network on Sat. 2/15.
Speaker - Mike Candrea, Head Coach - U of A Softball
Mike gave a fabulous talk reminding us that true success requires a balanced life. Some highlights include:
“My Dad gave me 3 principles of success:
1. Bear Down (Develop a strong work ethic)
2. Surround yourself with great people
3. Do something you are passionate about and you will never work a day in your life”
Mike’s son, when a sophomore in High School, challenged him to miss coaching the Olympics so he could watch him play baseball. He said, “Dad, we need to talk. Your life is out of balance. I need you”. He then went on to challenge his dad, the great coach, to find the proper balance between his profession, his family and his faith. Mike told us when one of his players thinks they had a bad day because they went 0 for 3 that he takes them across the street to the AZ Cancer Center to see what a bad day really looks like. He concluded with this: “Don’t miss the people in life who really love you.”
President Dave concluded the meeting reminding us to “dress western” for our meeting on Feb. 19 in honor of the Tucson Rodeo.
We all enjoyed the great performance by the Tucson Chamber Artists this past week. The TCA are a very talented group of performers that included 10 choral singers and conductor and pianist. The show was greeted warmly and received a standing ovation at the end. Awesome! Thanks to our program chairs Jeff and Bob and to Ellen Wheeler for suggesting this talented group. I know I have enjoyed the musical performances this Rotary year and I hope you do to.
WE PACKED 108,000 MEALS FOR THE CENTENNIAL ROTARY IN ARIZONA PROJECT FOR FEED MY STARVING CHILDREN.
Almost one year ago, Past President Jim Lubinski and I attended a Phoenix 100 Rotary Club meeting and met with their chair of 100 Years of Rotary in Arizona, Joe Prewitt to discuss ways we could collaborate with the Phoenix guys and gals, and help celebrate their 100 year anniversary. We agreed to participate in their Feed My Starving Children pledge to pack 1,000,000 meals to celebrate their 100 Years of Rotary in Arizona project. Wow! We had over 500 volunteers on Saturday. We underestimated the power and attraction of this event to engage not only all Rotary Clubs in Metro-Tucson but also engage different groups of the Tucson community at large. This Event was a signature contribution to a great cause and it is great that this project brought many area Rotary Clubs together to make this a success. We sought community companies and groups and were overwhelmed with volunteers. My Chair, Allyn Bulzomi put this out to County employees and we had a bunch. Our Honorary Member, Chief Dawna Cnota recruited over 30 volunteers from Davis Monthan. One Brazilian Jujitsu group brought their whole club. Many different groups around Tucson came together under the banner of Rotary International service and we exposed a lot of community people to the underlying principles of Rotary International. Most importantly, we exposed a lot of kids to their first volunteer service project. We had nine clubs contributing volunteers. Putting this together has been a big job and I want to thank my pal Allyn Bulzomi for his leadership and time into this effort, plus thanks go out to all those members that made a financial contribution. Thanks to Culligan Water, Eegees and United Rentals for their donation of water, food, and equipment. A special thanks goes to Ken Flower for giving us a great deal on tables and chairs from Arizona Party Rentals. Another thanks goes out to President Elect Mary Martin who did a fantastic job of getting this project covered by the media. Lastly, a special thanks to those volunteers from RCOT who helped a great deal and to Mark Irvin who was responsible for the 7:00 AM Set Up crew.
The RCOT truly met this year’s Rotary International theme, “Engage Rotary-Change Lives”.
This week we are fortunate to have UA Women’s Softball Coach Mike Candrea back as our program. Coach Candrea has always been one of my favorite speakers and he is a great motivational person. We are very lucky to have Coach Candrea at the University of Arizona. Go Wildcats!
See you at the RADISSON HOTEL ON SPEEDWAY!!!! DON’T FORGET.
As the clock struck 12, PRESIDENT DAVE called the meetingto order.
This week’s words of inspiration were brought to us by MIKE ORCUTT who bestoweduponus quotes by Samuel Adams aka Mark Twain, followed by ELLEN WHEELER leadingus inthe pledge, graciously filling in for BOB LOGAN. The Star Spangled Banner was sung by Tucson Chamber Artist and Vocalist Matthew Goinz who brought back memories of former member Richard Clark.
Filling in for BRUCE TUNZE with the introduction of guests and visiting Rotarians was DARYL ROSS.
The Birthday Boys this week were, EMERY BARKER who honored us with a Russian Proverb and again asked the question. If you were on trial for being a Rotarian would you pass the test? Our next birthday honoree was BRETT STEIN, whose speech was short and sweet and a quick donation to his PAUL HARRIS.
Our Sergeant at Arms JENNIFER HOFFMAN was next up on the agendawith this week’s raffles, fines and announcements. First up was the 50/50 Raffle and this week’s raffle was just a straight 50/50 with half the pot going to MIKE ORCUTT. Like a lot of our people on the list today both our finee’s were missing, JOHN McCALEB and MARK IRVIN, remember you can run but you cannot hide. PRESIDENT DAVE gave a quick update on the Feed My Starving Children and the Phoenix 100 Club Centennial Celebration. Rounding out the announcements were JOE NEVIN and CHUCK “The Skipper”SAWYER and a pitch about mentoring and last but not least was MARCIA KRUMWIEDE giving us a heads up about an upcomingWork Project on Feb. 15th and don’t forgetto sign up.
Moving on with our program, PRESIDENT DAVE introduced our introducer ELLEN WHEELER whopresented our speaker Eric Holtan, Executive Director and Music Director of The Tucson Chamber Artists. Eric gave us a quick history of the Tucson Chamber Artists and a pitch for this week’s performance at the Fox Theatre “Celebrating 10 Years of making Music in Tucson” and a pitch to buy tickets with the caveat that any tickets purchased by Rotarians would generate a 50% donation of the ticket price back to the ROTARY CLUB OF TUCSON. Jumping right into a performance by some of their talented vocalists, we were treated to a variety of songs ending with a rendition of Bear Down Arizona as a shout out to our now 21-0 Wildcats.
Bringing the meeting to a close, PRESIDENT DAVE quoted both Frank Zappa and Plato and ended with the ceremonial toast.
The ideal Mentor exhibits knowledge of Rotary and has a caring attitude and interest in the new member.
A Mentor takes a personal pride in “showing the ropes” to a new member.
A Mentor helps “pave the way” in making membership in the Rotary Club of Tucson a meaningful experience.
Getting to “KNOW” the new member is paramount; sharing personal experiences makes Rotary “REAL.”
A Mentor helps the new member to feel wanted and valued as a member of the Rotary Club of Tucson.
A committed Rotarian makes a difference at the LOCAL, STATE, NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL levels by helping to make a better world for health, peace, and justice.
Mentoring helps the new Rotarian to better understand and become active in Rotary. This includes ATTENDANCE, COMMITTEE PARTICIPATION, FINANCIAL and/or VOLUNTEER SUPPORT….
A Mentor willingly shares the joy and pride of what it means to be a Rotarian—and a member of The Rotary Club of Tucson!
Mentoring Program Committee:
Chuck Sawyer, Joe Nevin, Kevin Wong, Jan Green, Nina Daldrup, Jeff Heath, Wayne Meyer, Dick Guthrie, Ted Forsberg
Mike Candrea enters his 29th season as the head coach of the University of Arizona softball team in 2014 and under his guidance reaching the pinnacle should once again underscore a record of success almost unparalleled by any program in any sport at any level.
Candrea is one of the most respected coaches in the nation, with the accomplishments to supplement: eight national titles in 23 seasons, 21 trips to the Women’s College World Series in the last 24 seasons, 1,343 career victories, a mind-boggling career winning percentage of 81%, 50 All-Americans, four national players of the year and stewardship of Team USA to an Olympic gold medal, to name a few.
Despite massive vaccination efforts throughout Africa and the Middle East, new reported cases of Polio increased from the 2012 mark of 223 to a new total of 389 for 2013. Somalia led the way with 185 new cases. Pakistan had 91 new cases. As the fighting in Syria drew resistance fighters from across the Middle East, Africa, and Europe, Syria became another area of concern. There were 17 reported cases in 2013 despite vaccination campaigns throughout the latter part of the year.
A country by country breakdown is as follows: Somalia-185, Pakistan-91, Nigeria-53, Syria-17, Kenya-14, Afghanistan-13, Ethiopa-8, and Cameroon-4. Of note, Nigeria and Afghanistan had less than half of the reported cases in 2013 as they reported in 2012.
An area of particular concern is Pakistan. In mid 2012, Pakistan was making great progress in eliminating the disease. The number of new cases had dropped in half. However, in mid 2012, the Taliban and other militants began a more aggressive campaign against the polio vaccination efforts. The Taliban claim that the vaccination campaigns are a cover for western sponsored spying efforts and that the vaccinations are against Islamic law. In 2013, reported cases almost doubled the 2012 total.
The opposition has moved from the ideological front to personal and violent attacks against members of polio vaccination teams. According to the Wall Street Journal, 32 polio health workers have been killed since mid 2012 in Pakistan. This past week, three polio workers were gunned down and killed in Karachi, Pakistan's biggest city by gunmen who rode motorbikes past the workers and shot them. Two other workers are in serious condition as a result of gunshot wounds sustained in the same attack. One day later, six Pakistani policeman assigned to guard polio workers were killed. At least five others sustained injuries.
As of January 22, 2014, there have been four new cases of polio reported. All four were in North Waziristan, a tribal area in Pakistan with some 300,000 children at risk. This area, under the control of the Taliban, is believed to be a haven for Al Qaeda training grounds for new fighters who will eventually wind up in Syria. Surprisingly, Syria has been receptive to Polio vaccination campaigns. The fear held by many is that the decaying Syrian health infrastructure may be powerless to stop a new outbreak.
Last week’s meeting was a hoot. Congratulations to Leslie Galloway for winning the new and improved 50/50 raffle and thanks to all who contributed for a chance to win. She won $793.00. The money raised went to the FMSC project expenses.
We will have a great program this coming week with the performance of the Tucson Chamber Artists. Everyone should be entertained!
This coming Saturday, February 1st, is the Celebration of 100 Years of Rotary in Arizona with our Feed My Starving Children Mega Pack Event at an empty and available warehouse (fine) at 4161 E Tennessee St, Ste 339. Tennessee Street is located off Contractors Way between Ajo and Irvington. If you are signed up please dress accordingly and keep an eye on the weather. It should be nice but the warehouse is not heated or cooled. We will have snacks donated by Eegees. Thank you to our members who donated to this project. This will be remembered for a long time and just shows the power of Rotary and what we can accomplish.
If you did not sign up or could not sign up and want to volunteer, please let Dorinna or Allyn Bulzomi know and every effort will be made to get you a slot. You might check the site next week to check which spots are opened. We expect a bunch to open up as those people who reserved slots may not be filling them and they will be released. This is going to be a blast and we will have close to 500 people there working on this great international service project. Here is the link: www.fmsc.org/mobilepack/events
As PRESIDENT DAVE convened the meeting in the Bonsai Boojum Room to order, the crowd settled in.
Our words of inspiration were brought to us this week by, PAT ZUMBUSCH who bestoweduponus quotes on travel, followed by REBA KALIL leadingus inthe pledge and song and accompanied on the piano by ELLIE PATTERSON.
Introducing a list of guests and visiting Rotarians was DENNIS DRISCOLL.
A Happy Birthday moment was spent with each of this week’s celebrants, LINDSAY BISHOP who auctioned off her birthday cake for the good of the club. Our next birthday honoree was our own Honorary Member KANDIE VACTOR who celebrated her 2nd Birthday with us but said it feels more like 28 years than just a little over two. CLARKE DUNCAN snuck in at the end, a month late, to celebrate his birthday and gave an extra donation for the plug of his daughter’s farmers market in Green Valley every Wednesday.
Our Sergeant at Arms, JENNIFER HOFFMAN was next up on the agendawith this week’s raffles, fines and announcements. First up was the 50/50 Raffle and this week PRESIDENT DAVE gave the lucky ticket not one but two draws if necessary to try and win. The 2nd draw was not necessary as LESLIE GALLOWAY pulled the ace of spades on the first draw and picked up a pot of almost $800.00. CLEM LESLIE updated us on his most recent run in the news for the new Salvation Army building going up on the corner of Speedway and Main and obliged PRESIDENT DAVE with a donation of $75.00. Following on the list was VICKIE JACOBS with a Blue Badge for PETER BEAHAN. PRESIDENT DAVE gave a quick pitch for the Feed My Starving Children and Centennial Project and last but not least was Past President’s ARNIE JACOBSEN and JON WANG to introduce us to the 2015 TUCSON CLASSIC CAR SHOWChair ROGER HARWELL.
Moving on with our program, PRESIDENT DAVE introduced our introducer, Assistant District Governor Liz Cohen, whopresented our speaker District Governor Nancy Cassel. District Governor Nancyset the informal tone with theremark that she hates speeches and likes to keep her presentation more like a friendly conversation.Her message was whatwe can do to help promote ROTARY. Nancy reminded us “EREY” Every Rotarian Every Year and to keep ROTARY in the forefront of our day to day lives. She ended with a brief update on the District Conference April 25th-27th and look out for an exciting time.
Bringing the meeting full circle PRESIDENT DAVE, closed the meeting with a quote from Wil Rogers and the ceremonial toast.
The performance will reflect the diversity of TCA's programming and will include American folk songs and spirituals, excerpts from masterworks, including the Mozart C-minor Mass, and other choral masterpieces.
ABOUT TUCSON CHAMBER ARTISTS
Tucson Chamber Artists is a versatile ensemble of vocal and instrumental musicians dedicated to enriching lives through the transformational power of classical music. TCA’s singers represent the first rank of choral artists in Arizona and from around the country, and its instrumentalists have trained in some of the finest music schools in the world.
Is it Spring yet? Aren’t we glad we live in Tucson! This past week was a very full meeting and thanks to our membership for understanding the time constraints we faced with leaving enough time for our talented speaker, Andrew Comrie, University of Arizona. It was a great program.
The Tucson Classics Car Show made their final presentation for the 2013 Show. Over $107,000 was raised to be distributed to various charities that included Reading Seed, Youth On Their Own, and Carondelet. Chuck Sawyer did a fantastic show and can now go back to his day job! The name for Chuck I came up during the year was “Super Hero”. What a great job. Jerry Harris, congratulations on your Paul Harris award from the Club for your Herculean ticket sales efforts.
Our Feed My Starving Children project continues to expand and our efforts of raising money and volunteers have been incredible. Saturday, February 1st, we will host a fantastic international project and Rotary Clubs throughout Tucson will join us, along with non Rotarians to pack over 100,000 meals. Our fund raising efforts are over and feel free to make a donation directly to FMSC. We have enough funds to pay for the cost of the event. Please let Dorinna know if you would like a volunteer spot as they open up and they most surely will open after some of the reserved blocks are released during the next two weeks. One group not on the website is a setup crew for early Saturday morning at 7:30 AM.
This week we will hear from our District Governor, Nancy Cassel (who will be helping us pack on February 1) and as opposed to hearing her during her first month in office, it will be interesting to hear how the year is going in our large District. She may also share some of the plans for our District Conference which will be held in April. Please mark your calendars for April 25-27, 2014. The conference will be at the Hilton East. We will be hosting a hospitality suite as well as the cocktail reception for our own DG Elect, Sally Montagne.
Just a quick note on late planned announcements. As you can see from the last meeting, we always have a packed agenda. As hard as I try, it is sometimes difficult, if not impossible, to work everything in. Please take advantage of Facebook and our Ebulletin to make your announcements. This will free up some minutes at the meeting to enjoy more time with the speaker and give more time for the Q&A at the end of the presentation.
If you have Monday off, enjoy the day doing something fun. We will see you Wednesday.
As the clock struck 12 PRESIDENT DAVE GALLAHER called the meeting to order.
With words of inspiration, SUZANNE LAWDER ledus in our prayer, followed by DARRELL STEWART leadingus inthe pledge and song. DARRELL has been anointed club historian on “America the Beautiful” and instead of Acapulco style he went with the Auld Lang Syne version, accompanied on the piano by ELLIE PATTERSON.Introducing an extensive list of guests and visiting Rotarians was handled magnificently by ALANA DURRENBERGER.A Happy Birthday moment was spent with each of this week’s celebrants, STU GOLDMAN who always leaves us amazed and our ever diligent piano player Past PresidentGARY GETHMANN.
Handling the introduction of our newest members, were DR. ALAN ROGERS and RON OXMAN and eachextolled the virtues of our inductee. Our newest members are PAUL HALLUMS and MICHELLE FELIX. Next up on the agenda was the Sergeant at Arms JENNIFER HOFFMAN with this week’s raffles, fines and announcements. First up was the 50/50 Raffle and again no winner so the pot continues to grow. PAT LENNAN updated us on the success of this year’s Bell Ringing to the tune of $7,330.10. Following on the list was CHUCK SAWYER with an update on the CAR SHOW!CHUCK praised the success of all our volunteers and their magnificent leaders. Jumping in the middle of CHUCK’S presentation was Past President BOB SHAFF to present a special recognition to JERRY HARRISfor his unending support to the ticket sales. JERRY orchestrated and helped with 42 events and sold over 4,200 tickets alone. JERRY was presented with a PAUL HARRISPLUS 2 for his unending commitment to the cause. Keeping the interruption going Past President MARIANNE FREITAS and TOM STRASBURG jumped in again to thank CHUCK and honor him with his official title “THE SKIPPER”. Handing it back to “THE SKIPPER”, CHUCK proceeded to present this year's awardees, Reading Seed, Youth on their Own and St Joseph’s Carondolet NeoNatal their checks. Back over to PRESIDENT DAVE with a reminder to please stay for a few extra minutes to give our speaker the courtesy of being able to finish his presentation without being interrupted by dashes for the door at our usual ending time.
Moving on with our program, PRESIDENT DAVE introduced our introducer BOB LOGAN whopresented our speaker Andrew C. Comrie, Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost at the University of Arizona. BOB informed us that withall the standing ovations todaythat another was in order and that Andrew was a PAUL HARRIS FELLOW but forgot his pin so $2 in the scholarship cup which he most certainly obliged. Andrew gave us an update on the University of Arizona, its projected growth and how they will incorporate all the pieces of the puzzle to handle the growth.
Bringing the meeting full circle PRESIDENT DAVE, closed the meeting with the ceremonial toast.
Kathy Kitagawa was born and raised in a suburb of Schenectady, New York. Her father was a metallurgy engineer and her mother was a bookkeeper and travel agent. Kathy describes her Upstate New York years as idyllic. The streets were safe, she could ride her bike anywhere she chose and the public school system was outstanding. While in high school, Kathy became interested in the fashion industry. She worked as a fashion model in high school and after finishing school she went to New York City and worked as a model and then in sales in the garment industry.
Kathy's life changed when she met John Kitigawa, an Episcopal Priest. Seven months after following John to New Haven, CT, they were married. In 1984, John and Kathy moved to Baltimore, Maryland where John accepted a position in the Bishop’s office. In 1985, Kathy enrolled at Towson University in Baltimore. Kathy's favorite college memory is that of her husband, John, typing all of her papers. After a short stint working for Mercer HR, Kathy formed KAK Compensation Services in Baltimore in 1997. Her company focuses on providing companies pay studies and developing salary administration systems. Ninety five percent of her clients are non-profit organizations.
In 2001, St. Philip’s In The Hills called John to become their Rector (head Priest). Kathy moved her business to Tucson and has become active in the Tucson business and civic communities. She is Vice President of the Board of Directors for the Episcopal Community Services in Arizona. This organization supports local parishes and agencies throughout the state in the development and expansion of outreach programs. Kathy also is on the Board of Directors for the Arizona Town Hall which promotes civil discourse throughout the state on cogent issues.
Kathy joined Rotary in 2002. Her purpose was "to get plugged into Tucson - the people and the issues." Kathy has served on the Rotary Foundation Board, Audio-Visual Committee, Awards Committee, Co-Chair of the Wheel Chair Project, and Secretary for the Board. Kathy became primary caregiver for her Mother in May 2013, moving her to Tucson in August of 2013. She passed away in December of 2013. During these trying times, Kathy points with grateful pride to the advice and help given her by Rotarians Joni Condit, Kevin Wong, Larry Adamson, Bert Strug, John Lewis, and Mike Orcutt. Alan Rogers was her mother's primary care physician and a tremendous support to Kathy.
Kathy also is an invaluable asset for our Tucson Classics Car Show. Along with Dot Kret, Jim Murphy and Cliff Bowman, Kathy recruits and assigns the volunteers for the show. When Kathy can take time away from her busy business and civic schedule, she and her husband, John, like to travel. They have hiked in most of the National Parks in the United States and also have travelled abroad. Kathy is a photographer and contributes many photographs for the church and Rector’s Facebook pages. Kathy also enjoys cooking, entertaining in her home and listening to audiobooks while cooking.
District Governor, Nancy Cassel will report on the status of District 5500.
Biography - Governor Nancy M. Cassel – 2013-2014 Rotary District 5500
Nancy was sponsored into the Gila Bend Rotary Club in 1987 by Earl Carpenter. In 2013, Nancy will celebrate her 26th anniversary in Rotary. She served her club as Foundation Chair, YE counselor and secretary. In 1992-93 she was president of the club. Nancy is the fifth club president from that year to be selected As District Governor.
Nancy and her husband Ray will be married 48 years this June 17th. They were married for 21 days before Ray was sent to Vietnam with the Air Force. His military service took them to Florida for 11 years and back to Arizona in 1979. She sponsored Ray into Rotary in January 2001. He was a Centennial president of the Gila Bend Rotary Club 2004-05 and president of the Sierra Vista South Rotary Club in 2008-09. After retirement in 2006, they moved to Hereford where Nancy joined the Sierra Vista West Rotary Club, the Best in the West!! There she has served as Club Administration and Secretary.
The Pot for the 50/50 Raffle will start at $1,191.00 for the January 22nd meeting. Each week that the Ace of Spades is not drawn, the deck will get smaller and the pot will get larger. So that it's not too much of a challenge, the deck of cards is comprised of just face cards and aces. Guests will be allowed to purchase tickets, but they'll only qualify for 25 percent of the pot. Winners will share this pot with Feed My Starving Children. Tickets will be on sale at the registration table.
Happy New Year was the theme last week after a two (three if you count the mixer) week hiatus from our Wednesday meetings. 2014 promises to be a fun packed year with lots of projects and great fellowship.
We had a great program last week from Stephen Brown, a Trustee for the RI Foundation. Stephen is a polished and entertaining speaker who has an incredible Rotary resume. Mr. Brown is a charter member of the La Jolla Golden Triangle Rotary Club and has the most incredible story of leveraging international grants from Rotary into giant projects for education and building improvements in Afghanistan. I heard him at PETS training and he opened my eyes to the importance of international aspects of the thousands of accomplishments of RI grants around the world. If you missed the meeting, he received a standing ovation from the Club. This year as in all years, Rotary International asks all Rotarians to contribute $100 to the RI Foundation. “Every Year Every Rotarian” is the theme. Every dollar we do give to the Foundation will provide a return to our District and Club for international grants. Our DG Elect, Sally Montagne, is an expert on this subject and if you have not considered the $100 challenge, I hope you will make it happen this year in 2014.
We shortened up our usual business this past week to give our speaker 40 minutes so we will have a jam packed meeting this week with an exciting wrap up of the 2013 Tucson Classics Car Show and a presentation of monies to our charities. We will also have a brief update on the success we had ringing the bells for Salvation Army during the holidays where we raised another record amount of money. Thanks to Pat Lennan for leading this effort.
This past Friday, we inducted our first Interact Club at Amphi High School. The Club officers were pinned, as well as their teacher sponsors and school Prinicipal, Jon Lansa. It was a great event and well attended by members of our Club. Charlotte, Jo, Jim, Sally, Drew, Roger, Allyn and I attended. We are off to a great start there and their officers include freshman through seniors for continuity. They are eager to participate in community service and I am excited to see this happen. Member and good friend, Allyn Bulzomi spearheaded this deal and thanks Allyn in getting this up and running. It is going to be fun.
The Feed My Starving Meal Packing Event is scheduled for February 1st, 10:00-5:00 at 4161 E Tennessee St., #349. We had an incredible week as we opened up the registration to the public on Monday and by Thursday morning, the slots were full and therefore you cannot register online. I was shocked at how quickly it filled. Here is the scoop. The registration process online allows for people to reserve “blocks” of registrants for a team or block of people. Some people reserved 30-35 spots. If these people do not fill in these spots with names and email addresses in the next week, we will be calling them to ask them to release those “blocks” so we can register more Rotarians. Several area Clubs did not get in and we are asking people to be patient while we work on this. We will need a crew of 20 volunteers for set up on Friday afternoon on January 31. It will probably take two hours. So for now, please call the office and provide your name and time shift that you would like to work. We are also considering adding more packing stations which might increase our meal packing numbers. According to our friends in Phoenix, the meal count is at 723,000. We have a very good shot at packing the millionth meal here in Tucson on that day. I will be sending out a list of items we will need for the day in a separate email. Thanks to everyone for their support of this history making endeavor. Have a great week and see you Wednesday.
The first meeting of 2014 was brought to order promptly by PRESIDENT DAVE GALLAHER, who noted that our guest speaker’s flight had been delayed. Taking his sweet time, TED KIRACOFE delivered a ponderous invocation on the subject of time passing. A moment of silence was offered in remembrance of the victims and their families on this third anniversary of the January 8th shooting. DAVE WHITE led the pledge and song, accompanied by ELLIE PATTERSON.
New member, AMANDA WOOD did an excellent job introducing a long and dignified list of guests and visiting Rotarians – there were so many standing ovations for past district governors that we were dizzy. Strangely, no birthdays were reported and none were celebrated. Poor JENNIFER HOFFMAN was recognized for never being recognized, though she was mysteriously profiled in Tucson Lifestyle for purchasing all the butter in town. PRESIDENT DAVE is apparently on her mother’s “Naughty List” as his invitation to her Holiday Party was overlooked. Nevertheless JEN made a sizable contribution to DAVE’S signature fundraiser, Feed My Starving Children. CAMERON MOORE drew the lucky number for the 50/50 drawing, held by PETER BEAHAN, who’s Ace of Diamonds draw was close…but no cigar.
TOM ANDREWS asked for assistance in scheduling social activities for a short-term exchange student from Peru. VICKIE JACOBS introduced DON ROLLINGS, who awarded coveted blue badges to CAROL AND RANDY LONG. Randy remarked, “this is the best and friendliest club” they have ever attended. PRESIDENT DAVE and ALLYN BULZOMI proudly announced that we are inducting the Club’s very first Interact Club on Saturday, January 11. BULZOMI then provided an update on planning for the Feed My Starving Children food packing project, which will take place on February 1st. There are 290 volunteer slots to fill.
Guest speaker, Stephen Brown, arrived in time to speak and was glowingly introduced by SALLY MONTAGNE. Brown’s presentation was a mind-boggling success story of Rotarian fortitude and sheer luck that progressed from providing aid in Afghan refugee camps, to building a school in Jalalabad, to chartering the first Rotary Club in Afghanistan, to gaining internet connectivity for Nangarhar University and eventually garnering gifts of more than $4 million to establish US/Afghan collaborative university programs in Education and Engineering at Nangarhar University and San Diego State University. Brown ended by noting for all Rotarians that “The Life You’ve Changed the Most Has Been Your Own.”
PRESIDENT DAVE asked Club members to send a note of cheer to GARY HIRSCH, who is recovering from a successful double knee replacement surgery. DAVE’s toast recognized the incredible work and power of our international service through Rotary.
Andrew C. Comrie ~ Sr. Vice President & Provost - Academic Affairs - UofA
Andrew C. Comrie serves as the Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost. He is the chief academic officer of the University, overseeing all academic programs and units exclusive of the health sciences and medical enterprise where academic programs come under the oversight of the senior vice president for health sciences.
Dr. Comrie came to the University of Arizona in 1992 as a climatologist in the School of Geography and Development. He has several interdisciplinary appointments including Atmospheric Sciences and Public Health. He currently holds a tenured appointment as professor in the School of Geography and Development.
Gary Scheer was born on Christmas Day 1939 in Wichita, Kansas. His father was a machinist and his mother a homemaker. Gary has six brothers and sisters. His most fond memories of growing up in Wichita involve bicycle racing on a dirt track and his first car. His first car was a 1936 black Plymouth Coupe that was given to him at the age of fourteen. Since he did not have his driver’s license at that early age, he drove the car on his parents’ property. His entrepreneurial skills surfaced early. He tore the Plymouth apart, restored it and sold it for a profit. Gary went to St. Gregory’s, a private boarding school in Shawnee, Oklahoma for three years then returned to Wichita and graduated from West High School.
After serving an Optics apprenticeship, he met Barbara and they married as soon as she graduated nursing school in 1960. A registered nurse, Barbara has recently retired. They have two daughters, Susan and Stacia, and three grandchildren. Gary and Barbara soon moved to Boulder, Colorado where Stacia was born and Gary attended the University of Colorado. In 1968 Gary’s employer, The Benson Optical Co of Minneapolis, transferred him to Las Vegas, NV. While in Las Vegas, Gary was very active in the Junior Chamber of Commerce. One of his favorite memories was serving as chairman of the Nevada Special Olympics and taking 70 proud Special Olympians to Los Angeles where Olympic Gold Medalist in the decathlon, Rafer Johnson, hosted the first Special Olympics in the Los Angeles Coliseum.
In 1973, Gary and his family were urged to move to Tucson by two local Ophthalmologists and Rotarians, A.K. Hansen, MD. And Sherwood Burr, MD. Gary bought the Optical department and expanded it to what are now six optical retail stores and a full service Optical grinding laboratory. Alvernon Optical, under the direction of its current President, Stacia Decker, Gary’s daughter, employs 46 employees and provides the highest quality eye care services and products to Southern Arizona residents. Dr. Paul Cinalli heads up Optometric services including eye exams and contact lens service.
Gary joined the Rotary Club of Tucson in 1978 and served as a Board of Director under Jim Ronstadt’s presidency. He also served as club Secretary under President Gordon Bartlett. Gary has seen 36 Club Presidents during his years as a Rotarian in our club. Gary supports the San Carlos Project, the Tucson Classic Car Show and other Rotary projects. Gary says he is most proud of bringing his daughter, Stacia Decker, Dr. Paul Cinalli, Irene Decker and Tony Pedroza into the club.
Gary maintained his interest in cars throughout the years. He is a member of the Board of Governors of the Tucson Street Rod Association. Gary and Barbara travel across the Southwest exhibiting Gary’s restored 1932 Ford Sedan. This year, Gary will have another car on exhibition at our Classic Car Show on October 18, 2014. It is a 1931 Ford Victoria that Gary has recently restored into tip top shape.
When asked why he belongs to Rotary, Gary said that the principals of Rotary, mainly the Four Way Test, serve as his guideline to conducting his personal and business life and these principals have never let him down.
Happy New Year! 2013 was an incredible year for the Rotary Club of Tucson and 2014 will be even better! We had an incredible Classics Car Show that set several records thanks to the constant hard work by so many members of the Club and the leadership of Chuck Sawyer. You will soon hear a recap of last year’s show and then an upcoming announcement of the Chair for 2015’s Car Show.
The hiking fellowship continued with a spring trip to the Grand Canyon and many other hikes that were meant for all those happy hikers to get in shape. We had several great fellowship mixers that set some new records for attendance.
We just completed this year’s El Tour and were lucky to once again have the participation of John Hewko, CEO of Rotary International. Gary Hirsch and others spearheaded local efforts on the fundraising and with John’s ride, we raised over $700,000 towards eradicating polio. This was matched by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation 2 to 1 and our total was over $2,100,000 toward this campaign. We hosted John during his stay and he is an amazing leader of our organization. Heck, we even raised over $9,000 with our Mayor taking a pie!
We completed several work projects that helped out many of our local charities and we have more planned for 2014. February 1, we will be leading an effort to pack 100,000 meals for the Feed My Starving Children organization. Raising the money has been relatively easy with a match of $5,000 from the Phoenix 100 Club and an anonymous $5,000 donation from a member of our Club. This project was originally started by the Phoenix 100 Rotary Club as a way to celebrate 100 years of Rotary in Arizona as their Club celebrates its 100th anniversary. Their goal has been to pack 1,000,000 meals around the State and engage Rotary Clubs from all over Arizona to join in the celebration of 100 years of Rotary in Arizona. Now the hard part……………we need 500 volunteers. They do not need to be members of any Rotary Club and in fact, everyone over the age of five is welcome. You can do as little as a two hour shift or spend some extra time doing another shift. Come celebrate this in this historic event and help celebrate Rotary and the unique leadership and fellowship that we provide for many groups in Tucson and in Arizona. Please engage your friends and co-workers to sign up for a shift. Bring your whole company! Register online at www.fmsc.org/mobilepack/events.
In less than two weeks, we will celebrate the origination of our first Interact Club led by the efforts of member and good friend, Allyn Bulzomi. Our Club is at Amphi High School and the outlook looks good for a successful group of young men and women that want to tackle their own community projects. Several members called over the holiday and asked if they could contribute to the Interact Club through the Arizona Schools Tax Credit program. Thank you.
As every President will tell you, their year flies by and 2013 was no exception for this President and his spouse. We started by travelling to South Africa which this trip opportunity was created by a donation to Rotary to raise money for several community projects in Natal, Brazil by our District 5500. It was an incredible journey to say the least, and we celebrated Rotary by making up at clubs along the way. It seemed only several weeks later that we attended the Rotary International Convention in Lisbon Portugal. Yes, it was an incredible experience as this was our first International Convention. We were fortunate to travel with our friends and members, the Denningtons. The next thing we knew, it was business at home with leading our first meeting of 2013/2014.
Since then, we have hiked Havasupai Canyon with the District 5500 RYE students, hosted the 300th Rotary Gift of Life recipient Katia from Sedona, John Hewko from RI, and most recently, we completed our 25th annual Christmas and Holiday trip to San Carlos Mexico with 14 of our Club members. Whew! It is a quick year indeed.
Thanks to everyone for making this Club an incredible Rotary Club and for your time and dedication towards improving the lives of those that need help both at home and abroad.
Finally, please be sure to make this week’s meeting and listen to our fascinating speaker, Mr. Stephen Brown. His program will feature a unique story about the power of Rotary International abroad. It is a great story.
I am sure I left out something! See you this Wednesday.
The following is the recap for our Salvation Army Bell Ringing which took place on December 14th:
82 Rotarians, 17 Relatives, 9 Guests, 4 U of A Scholars and former U of A Scholars collected $7,230.10 on December 14, 2013. The Salvation Army and your RCOT Bell Ringing Committee (Pat Lennan & Keith Cobb) thank you for your Great Efforts. Of our 14 kettles and 12 stores, the top three collection teams are:
1 - Safeway--Sunrise & Swan--North Door $1,153.09
2 - Wal-Mart--Speedway & Kolb $895.32
3 - Dillard's--Park Mall $826,50
Many "Bell Ringers" did an outstanding job. Here are a few examples of some of our experts: "Santa" John Cousins at Wal-Mart--Speedway & Kolb in his authentic Santa outfit looked and sounded like Santa for two shifts, 1:00-5:00. When you drove up to Wal-Mart you could hear and see John picking up babies and taking family pictures as well as families taking his picture with their kids. John told me he gave away 500 candy canes to everyone. Jim and Connie Murphy at El Con Wal-Mart brought a Boom-Box at their kettle and played fantastic Christmas music. Chris Edwards and son Corbin at Dillard's Park Place Mall flashed his patented two-hand pointing sign of service while son Corbin opened the door for the Christmas Rush Crowd. Experienced members like Gordon Graham and his wife Nancy rang the bells like they have for so many years.
These are just a few of our Rotarians, Relatives, Guests and Scholars who served our community with that Rotary dedication. If you missed Ringing the Bell this year, or have not had this experience, sign-up next year in November for this fantastic Rotary Service you won't forget.
Motivated by the tragedy of September 11, Rotarian Steve Brown has traveled to Afghanistan twelve times during the last eleven years working with various programs of the Rotary Foundation and other partnering organizations to carry out educational and humanitarian programs in the City of Jalalabad. He will discuss challenges encountered and successes enjoyed working with local Afghans to establish a Rotary Club in Jalalabad and create a Sister Cities relationship between his home town of San Diego and Jalalabad. Experiences included building schools, establishing internet connected computer labs for boys and girls in public high schools, working with a local university to facilitate English language training and assisting with Rotary’s polio eradication efforts through a meeting with a Taliban leader and a separate meeting with Afghan President Karzai.
The results are in from our December 11, 2013 meeting when the members in attendance completed a ballot on the Community Grants allocation of funds for the net Car Show proceeds. The following are the results:
TOTAL BALLOTS VOTED = 125
102 of the 125 Ballots answered “agreed” to all three questions: the Breakout of Funds, the Five Areas of Focus for the Net Car Show Proceeds, and it has been established Reading Seed be the Primary Beneficiary for 2014 and 2015.
23 of the 125 Ballots had at least one disagreement to an allocation. The breakout is as follows:
1. Breakout of Funds – 13 disagreed
2. The Five Areas of Focus – 9 disagreed with 2 having “no opinion”
3. Reading Seed – Primary 2014 & 2015 – 10 disagreed with 1 having “no opinion”
Thank you for completing your ballot last week. The ballot was a non-binding affirmation of both the Community Grants Committee and the recent approval by the Board of Directors and the Board’s input into that recommendation. If you missed the meeting and would like a ballot, please contact Dorinna at the Rotary Office. During the coming months, there will be a lot of work for our Club to complete the process towards the final selection and awards of the grants.
We recently completed the 25th (I think) annual Christmas/Holiday trip to San Carlos, Mexico this past weekend of December 6-9. I’d like to thank the following Club members for attending this year’s fun event: Matt Blair, Co Chair and Tom Andrews, Co Chair, Ellie Patterson and spouse Tom, Tim Brown and spouse Cathy, DG Nancy Cassel and spouse Ray, DGE and member Sally Montagne, Susan Moore Vault and spouse Frank, Christy Vertuca, and Susan Gallaher.
For the past 25 years, RCOT and San Carlos have combined resources and host several Christmas parties at the area schools. These parties include a Christmas pageant, personally wrapped gifts for each student plus stuffed animals for their younger siblings which are given out by resident Santa Claus, along with a brief hot dog lunch. We also provide each family with a gift of rice and beans.
This year, on day one, we visited Los Ranchitos School and the fishing village of La Manga . We also visited a closer review of some of the projects that we have participated in over the years. Most recently, under President Jim Lubinski, we contributed $2500 towards a re-drilling and installation of new piping for a freshwater well at the fishing village. Past projects have included building a library at Los Ranchitos and bathroom facilities at both Los Ranchitos and La Manga. We have also helped out in a small way with the preschool in La Manga.
On Sunday, we visited the school in the village of Santa Clara that was devastated several years ago by a fierce and damaging hurricane. This school, combined with the local village of San Jose, was our biggest party and perhaps included many of the most needy students, although it is hard to say since there are so many needs here. The families were so very appreciative and the pageant they presented was very entertaining. The wonderful thing is the kids and families look forward to this event every year. It put a lot of smiles on the faces of all of us Rotarians.
There are many heroes in this effort and the local Rotarians of San Carlos and the hard working school staff, along with the incredible efforts of Elena Cruz (who has been helping organize this effort for too many years to remember), are just a few of the people who make this trip so enjoyable and rewarding. Many thanks go out to the San Carlos Club too for always hosting us the first night when we arrive by providing a great party at a member’s house.
We identified many new projects at some of the schools and perhaps the newest and most in need is some upgrades to the secondary school which looks like a building from a war zone. It is a train wreck, and I believe some of the great ideas discussed during our tour will generate some projects in our immediate future.
Many of our Club members have participated in this trip or given money or both. This was my fourth visit during my 22 years of membership. This year’s effort was spearheaded by Matt Blair and Tom Andrews. Everything was well organized in an incredibly short time and the van ride was a better idea than the buses! We cleared Customs in five minutes on our return and I can’t remember ever clearing Customs in five minutes during my lifetime. The vans made it much easier! We also did not have to clear Mexican check points with a bus and that too made a huge difference. As we move into 2014, this trip always happens the first weekend in December. For a great time, put a hold on a few days in December 2014 for this trip!
Rotary Club of Tucson Trip to San Carlos, December 6-9, 2013
This year Rotarians of the Rotary Club of Tucson will have the opportunity to take advantage of the Arizona School Tax Credit of $400 and helping a new Rotary program that is part of our Club. This year we have started our own Club sponsored Interact Club at Amphi High School. Their first official meeting will be January 10. If you wish to help this club get off the ground and take advantage of the tax credit, please write your check to Amphi High School and designate in the memo section, AMPHI INTERACT CLUB. The check should be mailed to:
Attn: Bookstore Manager, Amphi High School, 125 W Yavapai, Tucson, AZ 85705
They are an energetic group with lots of great ideas. Let’s help them. If you wish to assist on this committee, please let member Allyn Bulzomi know you are willing to help serve on our Club Interact Committee.
Also, Interact will soon become one of our online options for donating. You will eventually be able to find Interact on the following link for donations. Thanks again!
President, DAVE GALLAHER, called the weekly meeting to order and asked for a moment of silence for various members experiencing health challenges.
Santa Claus paid a visit and talked about the car show and Salvation Army. The Invocation was given by CLEM LESLIE, followed by the Pledge and Song by PAUL HALLUMS, with ELLIE PATTERSON on the piano, singing “America the Beautiful.”
A Community Grant Survey and balloting form on the table was discussed.
Following Lunch, JEFF RONSTADT did a good job with the Introduction of Guests and Visiting Rotarians. One was from Port St. Lucie, FL, and one from Western Australia. Happy Birthday recognition was afforded to CHAR ERNSTEIN, BOBBY LARSON, and GARY SCHEER, the latter who mentioned that he was born on Christmas Day. CAM MOORE was not present.
President DAVE discussed the San Carlos trip, showing several photos and encouraging others to go. The library and well were mentioned, along with the dinner provided.
BRETT STEIN was introduced as a New Member by RICHARD WHITE. BRETT’s classification is Insurance & Risk Management: Long Term Care, one of the few specialists in this area. Welcome BRETT!
Sergeant At Arms: Raffle money was held until later, and U of A game tickets auctioned.
Announcements were made regarding: “Feed My Starving Children,” by ALLYN BULZOMI and JIM LUBINSKI. Several members presented checks toward this; the Holiday Mixer by DARRELL STEWART; Bell Ringing by PAT LENNAN; The Marathon Team by JENNIFER HOFFMAN; and the new President-Elect-Elect, PHIL GUTT, was announced by President-Elect, MARY MARTIN. PHIL wants to make Rotary as enjoyable as it is beneficial.
BOB LOGAN introduced speaker, Mike Varney, President and CEO of the Tucson Metro Chamber, who discussed four main points: the local economy; the city; jobs; and “getting better”.
President DAVE adjourned the meeting with a Toast and thanked our Guests. “Have a great Christmas and see you next year.”
Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to everyone! Our upcoming Holiday Mixer will be the last meeting of the year. I hope you have signed up! Jerry Harris has generously donated some more great wines and thank you Jerry for your generous donation. Jerry knows his stuff about red wines!
The year of 2013 has gone incredibly fast. Portugal at the convention seems like last week! I cannot believe that the New Year is upon us. The Club has done so many wonderful things in 2013 and 2014 promises to be another great year for our Club. We are holding on our own with membership which is a blessing. Your President is swamped with completing end of year business and looking for a break to spend some time with family and friends and get a little bit of hunting in during the holiday.
I hope everyone has a wonderful holiday and enjoy the break. We have a great program for January 8 with Stephen Brown, Trustee for Rotary International. Stephen will give an informative talk about RI Foundation and the many wonderful things that the Foundation performs. His topic will be about Afghanistan. It is a good one and I thought it important to bring him to the Club.
Sunday, December 8th. Despite inclement weather (snow flurries at Start Line in Oracle), cold (35 degrees), wind (15 mph), and NEVER any sun, YOUR intrepid Rotary Relay Marathon Team ran and completed the 26.2 mile adventure in astonishing good time! Way to go team!
Mike Varney became the president & CEO of the Tucson Metro Chamber in May 2011. Prior to that he served as the president and CEO of the North Las Vegas Chamber of Commerce and the vice president of marketing of the Las Vegas Chamber of Commerce. In his current role, he is responsible for all aspects of the organization’s operations including planning, product development, government affairs, communications, research, finance and member services.
Mr. Varney is a native of Madison, Wisconsin, where he worked in the broadcasting industry and owned his own successful small business for six years before moving to Las Vegas in 1997. He is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin, having earned a bachelor of arts degree in Communication Arts.
Winter is finally here! We had fun on Wednesday and had a great opportunity to learn more about the newspaper business from Editor and Publisher of the Arizona Daily Star, Mr. John Humenik. I think print media is in an interesting time period and who knows where the papers of the future will come from. One thing for sure, we all want and expect truth and accuracy.
We honored several Paul Harris Fellow recipients this week and congratulations to all! For those who missed it, I announced that the Club is matching your contribution up to $500 with points that make it easier, faster, and less expensive to obtain either your first Paul Harris Fellow award or your multi number award. This match will last until the end of the year or until we run out of matching points to give. Right now we have 13,000 points and some of you took immediate advantage on Wednesday. Rotary International thanks you. It also helps us with our $1000 bet with the Phoenix 100 Rotary Club that we will outnumber them with new PHF awards for the year.
This coming Wednesday, you will have an opportunity to affirm the Community Charities Grants Committee and your RCOT Board’s recent votes for the areas of focus for the proceeds from our Car Show for the next two years. We took a vote several years ago and we want to make sure that we are on track for the next two years. Please remember to complete one of the voting cards that will be distributed around the tables on December 11.
Lastly, we have about seven weeks to raise $12,000 and gather 500 volunteers for the mobile pack for the Feed My Starving Children project to be held February 1, 2014. It’s easy! Our committee behind this is having a meeting at 10:30 AM this coming Wednesday and I hope you will come learn more about the upcoming project and how you can help. This project is celebrating 100 years of Rotary in Arizona and anyone can volunteer. This is a great international service project and will substitute for a work project for January and February. Registration for just Rotarians is available until December 15 and then we will open up the registration to all.
I hope the fish are biting in San Carlos this weekend and I am pleased to honor our 25th trip to San Carlos to help spread some Christmas and Holiday cheer.
DAVE GALLAHER, President, rang the bell, calling the weekly meeting to order, followed by SID HIRSH with a Moment of Silence and words of remembrance, honoring the passing of member JANIS COTTEN.
JIM RONSTADT gave the Invocation, followed by LESLIE GALLOWAY with the Pledge & Song, “This Land is Your Land,” well played on the piano by ELLIE PATTERSON.
After lunch, RICHARD MUNDINGER did a good job of Introducing Visiting Rotarians and Guests. Birthday Recognition was afforded to JIM DAVENPORT and ANDREW MARTIN, who talked about the 26 club members who have been members longer than he has been alive.
CHARLOTTE HARRIS and BOB LOGAN honored five Paul Harris recipients: Rabbi STEPHANIE AARON, MARCIA GILL, GORDON GRAHAM, ELLIE PATTERSON and DICK KOLASA. President DAVE discussed how the Fellowships could be achieved more readily with a pool of matching contribution points.
BOB LOGAN talked about his picture in the paper – a science insert. RICHARD MUNDINGER was presented with his Blue Badge.
Announcements were made by DARRELL STEWART about the Holiday Mixer, with no Luncheon Meeting on Dec. 18th; PAT LENNAN advised that there are still volunteer openings for the Dec. 14th Bell Ringing; MATT BLAIR and CHRISTY VERTUCA discussed the San Carlos Trip; and President DAVE discussed the issues ballot.
BOB LOGAN introduced the speaker, John Humenik, President and Publisher of the Arizona Daily Star, with an excellent talk on “The Changing Landscape of the Newspaper Industry.” Main points of discussion were that successful papers are engaged in the community, there are engaged readers, and there are digital innovations.
President DAVE adjourned the meeting with a Toast and a thank you to the guests.
Significant innovations in digital news gathering, advertising and distribution, coupled with expanding print plus online audiences, are transforming local newspapers into robust media companies. The direction is positive and the innovations, especially in mobile, are providing new tools and new ways to reach readers with news and information when, where and how they want it. The Arizona Daily Star, recently named “Enterprise of the Year” by parent company Lee Enterprises, is out-performing its peers. John M. Humenik, president and publisher of the Daily Star and Immediate Past Chairman of Local Media Association, one of North America’s largest media trade associations, will share his perspective on the changing landscape of the newspaper industry.
Happy Thanksgiving everyone and I hope you had a wonderful holiday. We had a good meeting and it is exciting to see the many businesses and restaurants that are locating in downtown Tucson. It would be fun to have some of our “old time Tucsonan” members back to reflect on the rough transition that our downtown has experienced and to have them reflect on the current resurgence we are now experiencing. There are a lot of good things happening downtown. I don’t know about you but my favorite restaurant in Tucson right now is Maynard’s at the Train Depot.
We had a lot to be thankful for this Thanksgiving. I am blessed to have the best mother-in-law who spent the day with us and directed traffic instructing us how to improve the gravy. It is classic stuff and I enjoy those memories and perhaps they become more special every year. My 91 year old mother had to be taken by medevac from Kona to Maui for emergency gallbladder removal on Thanksgiving Day. It was a tense day but she is ok, and we are thankful for that.
It is hard to believe it is December already! The holidays are upon us and we wish our members of the Jewish faith a happy Hanukkah as the Jewish holiday began on Thanksgiving this year.
This week Susan and I travel to San Carlos and celebrate 25 years of tradition of bringing joy and smiles to the faces of the children of San Carlos. It is my third trip and Susan’s fourth.
President DAVE GALLAHER rang the Rotary Club of Tucson to order and was followed by JACK PARRIS with an invocation that asked to us remember those who are not as fortunate as we are this Thanksgiving.
RANDY and CAROL LONG teamed up for the Pledge and a rousing rendition of “The Star Spangled Banner.” ELLIE PATTERSON got a round of applause for her accompaniment.
Following lunch, STEVE STEENSON gave a mighty effort at introducing visiting Rotarians and guests. No one would fess up to having a birthday this week, but President DAVE promised more to come.
CHARLOTTE HARRIS presented two Paul Harris Fellows. One to Annalise Runyon that was gifted by her Aunt, MARCIA KRUMWIEDE and MARCIA was presented with her Paul Harris, plus two.
Fines were handed out to DREW VACTOR for some photographs of his early childhood that ended up in the newspaper and to STU GOLDMAN for a photograph of him in a stunning yellow dress with matching hat that, thank goodness, did not end up in the newspaper. A new 50/50 raffle will be coming soon.
GARY HIRSCH was recognized for his work on the Rotary Ride to End Polio in El Tour de Tucson. He announced that, with matching funds from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, the total money raised this year will be $2.2 million. DARRELL STEWART reminded members of the Holiday Mixer on December 18th (no lunch meeting that day) and to sign up on Club Runner. PAT LENNAN needs 35 more bell ringers for the Salvation Army Bell ringing on December 14th. IRENE DECKER needs Toys for Tots in her store and ALLYN BULZOMI needs 500 volunteers for the Feed My Starving Children project on February 1, 2014.
JEFF RONSTADT introduced Michael Keith, CEO of the Downtown Tucson Partnership who gave us an encouraging review of the development in downtown Tucson.
President DAVE led a toast to a happy Thanksgiving and adjourned the meeting.
As members of Rotary know, ours is a non-sectarian organization. We recognize the many different religions that make up Rotary around the world. Last week, one of those religions had a unique pairing with our uniquely American holiday of Thanksgiving.
The Jewish Festival of Lights, Hanukkah, starts at sundown on a date determined by the lunar calendar. It normally falls between early and mid-December. This year, it started on Wednesday evening, November 27. This has never happened in our lifetimes -- the last time was in 1888. It will not fall on Thanksgiving again for another 75,000 years!
Hanukkah is distinctly NOT Jewish Christmas -- in fact it is very different. It was originally a kids celebration where we gave "Hanukkah Gelt," or a little bit of money, to children. Unfortunately, due to its accidental calendar location, usually later in December, it has been blown totally out of proportion. It is a Festival, not a Holiday. On the Jewish calendar, this makes a big difference. However, it is significant because it is a celebration that commemorates Religious Freedom, which makes it much more like American Thanksgiving, a holiday that was derived from the desire for religious freedom, than any other holiday.
Hanukkah goes on for 8 nights, when candles or lights are lit in Jewish homes each night, adding one candle per night to the 9-branched candlelabra or Hanukkiah. until all the candles have been lit, stories have been told and songs have been sung. Thanksgiving, in which we literally Give Thanks for our Freedom, our Way of Life and for Those who made it and continue to make it possible, was celebrated last Thursday, but should go on all year in every American home.
Wow! If you missed this week’s meeting, you missed a fun and an informative one. After almost five months (and counting) of being President, I am still baffled with how big our agenda grows from the week before. We have so many things going on and I believe that is what makes RCOT such a great Club.
The Honorable Mayor Jonathan Rothschild was our program and he gave an informative and passionate speech about his role as Mayor and discussed some important items that have been a priority for his job as Mayor. I graduated from high school at Canyon del Oro with Jonathan (Class of ‘73) and we served together in many early “political” circles of student government back in the day. We have now known each other for 41 years. That helped a bit in convincing him to take a pie in the face if we could raise $2500 from our Club membership towards Rotary’s End Polio Now campaign and he was a great sport to say yes. We quickly got 32 people to pony up $100 each towards this effort and the fun began (thanks Darrell Stewart) and it was indeed an honor and privilege to put a nice pie into my pal the Mayor. With our match from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, we raised a total of $9600 for the End Polio Now campaign. You can send a quick email if you wish and thank him for helping this effort. Send your note of thanks to mayor1@tucsonaz.gov. I have sent him a gift certificate to Sparkle Cleaners with a nice edible pie for the holidays.
This coming week, we will hear about Rotary’s success at the El Tour de Tucson and the visit to Tucson again by Rotary International Secretary, John Hewko, who was honored this year for raising the most money yet for any charity since the El Tour de Tucson began. John raised over $240,000 last year. There is more exciting news for this year’s results. Susan and I were thrilled at the opportunity to host John during his visit here and he is a most incredible worker and spokesperson for Rotary International. Member Gary Hirsch has done another fantastic job with organizing riders and raising money for the Polio Plus campaign as well. Thanks Gary!
There’s more. This week we kick off our effort to begin organizing for a meal packing event for Feed My Starving Children that will be held February 1, 2014, on a Saturday, at an industrial building near Ajo and Alvernon. This is a joint project with the Phoenix 100 Rotary Club and other Rotary Clubs around Arizona celebrating 100 years of Rotary in Arizona. We will need to get 500 volunteers including Rotarians and will join forces with any and all community groups and businesses to perform the packing of these meals in two hour shifts. This project is another way to celebrate fellowship and involvement with international service.
For those of you travelling this coming week to be with family and friends for the holiday, please be careful and travel safely. We have a lot to be thankful for and Happy Thanksgiving. See you Wednesday.
A very thankful KEITH COBB opened the meeting with the invocation and club members were asked to fill out the ballots for the Board of Directors seats that are open. PRESIDENT DAVE also informed the club that JANIS COTTEN is gravely ill and welcomes visitors, especially Rotary friends, in order to say goodbye.
Jonathan Lang from Boy Scout Troop #339 (sponsored by RCOT) led the pledge and a rousing rendition of “America the Beautiful” accompanied by the multi-talented ELLIE PATTERSON. ELLIE along with the other Riders to End Polio – El Tour had her Rotary bicycle jersey on.
JOHN COUSINS, another El Tour rider, introduced guests and visiting Rotarians after which PRESIDENT DAVE wished happy birthday to MARGARET HIGGINS (who he said had a great radio face and wonderful accent), MARIANNE FREITAS (who related the fact that her sponsor really was against women in Rotary), DAN GUARE (who celebrated with his Rotary kazoo), and BRUCE TUNZE (who quoted Ray Bradbury but claims he does not read science fiction).
District Governor Elect, SALLY MONTAGNE, introduced two new members to the club: CAROL and RANDY LONG. Both educators, RANDY researched cohesion and stress as a Captain in the Army (I am convinced he is using RCOT as a case study!)
Winners of the raffle were announced for items contributed to the car show silent auction – among the prizes were a signed duck print and an electric carving knife. A live auction was also held for UofA football tickets and a fun time on the water with PRESIDENT DAVE.
CHUCK SAWYER presented a check to Dr. Sherrill, head of school at St. Gregory’s, we heard a report from the successful popcorn sales from Troop #339 and understand the Goodwill Clothes Closet Cleaning Day was a success.
Mayor Rothschild presented his plan for developing a foundation for growth in Tucson and related a number of successes he has presided over since being elected. Nice to hear some positive news about the future of our city! Even more, the Mayor was a trooper and took a pie to the face in order to support Rotary’s Ride to End Polio at El Tour this year. With matching funds, approximately $7500 was raised!
Lastly but not leastly, the three new Board Members were announced for 2014 – 2016. They are STACIA DECKER, JENNIFER HOFFMAN and BOBBY LARSON – Congratulations and thank you for your willingness to serve!
Rotarian Chris Mooney’s creative photographic exhibition at The Art Institute of Arizona is a visual delight no Rotarian will want to miss. Its positive message, surreal desert beauty, and Southwestern “photo” mementos allow the viewer to absorb, smile and wonder; and then realize just what it is to be a Tucsonan, just how fortunate we are.
Chris’ Artist Statement: “The Southwest shaped me. My childhood held many influences: Roy Rogers, the Sonoran Desert, and the sacrifice of a loving mother and stepfather who have always been there when I needed them. Moving from New York when I was three years old, the Southwest grabbed a hold of my soul and awoke something within me, bigger than myself.
I’ve been lucky and fortunate to make a living from my childhood dream of becoming a photographer, and the work presented here is a sample of over 30 years of capturing the Southwest.”
One might want to describe many of Chris’ works as visual “puns” titled with amusing written “puns.” The colors, which are almost neon in effect at times, highlight Southwestern subject matter and attract attention from some distance. Stephanie Aguilar, Receptionist and Inquiry Processor, volunteers: “This Gallery Show has been one of the busiest I’ve seen. Staff, students and the public will slowly walk by and eventually work their way in. I believe the attraction is that these photographs are ‘home’ to most of us, and we want to see our environment creatively.”
I have always felt that there is an association between the creative spirit and the humanitarian spirit—the Rotarian service spirit, so to speak. Both give us a degree of satisfaction and completion that very few other activities can. Chris Mooney has got it and he shares it with us. I have asked Rotarians, Marianne Freitas and Richard Bratt, both who know Chris well and have the experience of his exhibition, to give us some insights.
PP Marianne: “We are most fortunate to have the talents of member Chris Mooney. Chris has continually and generously donated his photographic talents to our club . . . roster pictures, official photo of TCCS raffle car, the raffle ticket and flyer picture, photos on the day of the car show.”
Richard: “Chris Mooney is many things: A talented photographer, artist photographer, Rotarian, friend and overall just a nice person. I have gotten to know Chris both through Rotary and by using him as our firm’s photographer. He does an outstanding job and is very professional in his business dealings. Just recently at his photographic exhibit, I got to see the scope of his talents and his creativity. I am proud to call Chris both a friend and a Rotarian.”
Delight yourself with Chris Mooney’s visual treats this Holiday Season. The exhibition extends at the Art Institute, 5099 E. Grant Rd., through December, “8 to 8” Monday – Thursday, “8 to 5” Friday and Saturday.
Thanks, Chris, for sharing with your fellow Rotarians.
Local developer, Michael Keith, began work as the Downtown Tucson Partnership’s CEO on May 10, 2010. Previously, Mr. Keith was president of Contemporary West Development, specializing in downtown historic restoration and new residential development. Projects included the restoration of the historic Cheney House in El Presidio, and the development of seven residential townhouses at Franklin Court.
It's that time again to sign up for our annual Bell Ringing. This tradition goes back to 1969 when former President George Hawke partnered with the Salvation Army. This year we again need 114 Rotarians, relatives and friends to man the 14 kettles at 12 stores.
Last December we raised $7,000. Included in that total was $1500 which was comprised of 15 Rotary members’ businesses donations of $100 a piece to sponsor a kettle. We remind you that the money raised last year bought over $70,000 worth of food for needy Tucsonans. The Salvation Army's Commissioner receives a salary of only $13,000 per year (plus housing) for managing this $2 billion organization. 96% of donated dollars goes to the cause.
Please sign up on ClubRunner to Ring those bells. If you and/or your business would like to sponsor one of the 14 kettles, please contact Pat Lennan at 742-1999 or Keith Cobb at 204-5311, along with any other concerns you may have.
This is one of the most rewarding experiences you will encounter. Just ask John Cousins, who dresses in an authentic Santa Claus outfit and the dozens of other Rotarians who have "Rung the Bells" many, many times.
Salvation Army Rotary Bell Ringing - December 14th
In 1971, Rotarian Don Rollings’ parents Kelley and Sally Rollings began buying old adobe buildings that were threatened by development or neglect in downtown. Today, Rollings Corporation and Bacon Industries own more than 30 buildings in Barrio Viejo. All were restored to their original appearance and are leased to commercial and residential tenants. The centerpiece of their holdings, Cushing Street Bar & Restaurant, opened in 1972 and was sold in 1989. Don’s sister, Betsy, took it back into the family’s holdings in 2002 and started a Saturday night jazz policy.
“Jeff Lewis came in one night with singer Kristi Martin, who was a good friend of mine,” Betsy says. “When Kristi went on to other things, Jeff continued and has been here 95% of the Saturday nights. People who I have met through them are so special. An important impetus was that Jeff worked so hard for the Tucson Jazz Society for four years and they supported us. The new El Con Club on Tuesday nights is an important aspect of jazz in Tucson now and Pete Swan moved the jazz from the OPG to Wilbur’s – Tucson has some pretty great jazz.”
Lewis, a saxophone playing prosthodontist, plays jazz standards from 7 to 10 p.m. every Saturday night, often with Ed DeLucia on guitar and Jack Wood on bass but others substitute including trombonist/keyboardist Rob Boone.
As Car Show committee members who attended the wrap-up dinner there will attest, the food is great. There is a lovely patio with old citrus trees but the inside of the bar is most interesting. An antique cut glass chandelier bar is from an old French mansion in Mexico City, as is the Art Nouveau statue of Cleopatra, their trademark.
Photo of Scott Black, Ed DeLucia and Jeff Lewis with the Cleopatra statue.
Rotarian Yvonne Ervin is the Director of Development for the UA's Confluencenter for Creative Inquiry and a freelance writer and editor. She wrote a feature story on jazz in Tucson for this month’s Desert Leaf.
Foundation month is here! Every Rotarian Every Year! We had a great presentation from PDG Art Harrington who came down from Bull Head City to give us a presentation on the RI Foundation and the work it does both here and around the world. His time was much too short for this important topic and I encourage you to go to the RI website and check out some of the great programs that we are funding for Rotary. Sometimes I have been confused about all of the programs and giving to the annual fund and Paul Harris and I find the site to provide some clarity to all of the funds and how they operate. Charity Navigator gives the RI Foundation its highest four star rating so you know we are doing a great job.
It was a pleasure to introduce our newest Honorary Member Dawna Cnota, who is the Command Chief Master Sergeant at Davis Monthan AFB. Dawna is an incredible leader and we are truly honored to have her be an Honorary Member of the RCOT. Ms. Cnota manages thousands of airmen and women at DMAFB and will be a great link between RCOT and Davis Monthan AFB.
It was also a treat to honor Lily Elena Schmidt at this past week’s meeting. Lily celebrated her 10th birthday by asking her party guests in lieu of gifts to bring diapers for the Diaper Need Awareness Week that coincided with her birthday. Lily raised more diapers than all of the car dealerships that participated in the diaper drive. Lily is the great granddaughter of Cele Peterson and I hope to see her as a member of the RCOT in her future some day! Thank you Lily!
We will have Scoutmaster Jonathan Lang of Boy Scout Troop #339 at our next weekly meeting. We were approached by Scoutmaster Jonathan Lang in 1993 to sponsor a Troop and this was when Troop #339 began. Member Dewey Barrich (deceased) asked me to help and it would be incredibly easy with the energy and dedication that Jonathan had in starting the Troop. After several years away from the Troop, he has re-entered the scene and is once again the Scoutmaster. Jonathan would like to say a big “thank you” to the club for sponsoring Troop #339.
We have the El Tour bike race coming up and several of our members are busy raising money for their ride to help Rotary’s fight against polio. Member Gary Hirsch is leading a pack of riders and we look forward to the celebration of Rotary International this coming weekend during events of the El Tour. RI’s International Secretary, John Hewko, is returning again for the ride and there is a dinner on November 21 to honor his work from last year in raising over $200,000. I have one ticket available if someone would like to attend the dinner at 6:30 at Casino Del Sol. Good luck to all of our Rotarians making the ride!
Have a great week and hope you are enjoying the great fall weather.
TIS’ THE SEASON. Thank you to Rotary District 5500 Governor Nancy Cassel for featuring The Rotary Vocational Fund of Arizona (TRVFA) in the October District newsletter. Having the President of TRVFA, Tubac Rotarian Judith Noyes, is added impetus for encouraging all Rotary Club of Tucson members to consider your annual State Tax Credit contribution in helping the “working poor” of Southern Arizona pursue vocational training. You should have received a preliminary DON’T FORGET reminder from TRVFA.
Our RCoT has sponsored 19 applicants for over $30,000 in grants.
A one-time grant up to $3,000 is now available.
All applicants must be high school graduates, residents of Arizona and qualify as “working poor” as defined by the State of Arizona.
All applicants are sponsored and interviewed by a Rotary Club.
You can support your schools and TRVFA in the same year.
Maximum yearly contribution qualifying for State Tax Credit filing jointly is $400.
If, as a RCoT member, you have an employee or desired employee who meets the grant qualifications, please contact one of our TRVFA Committee members: Joe Nevin, Cheryl House, Dot Kret, J.B. Toland or me.
Governor Nancy: “The benefits to you and your Club are: fulfilling your responsibility for Vocational Service, helping someone achieve a better life and perhaps gaining a new Rotary member. Please visit the TRVFA web site www.trvfa.org to get a fuller understanding of this wonderful Rotary project. You will find the full application and a helpful video.”
PRESIDENT DAVE GALLAHER opened the meeting right on time! FRANK ZUNNO led a wonderful invocation celebrating Veteran’s Day – it was very moving. PRESIDENT DAVE also recognized the Veterans in the club. BILL MOORE led the song with ELLIE PATTERSON assisting on the piano.
It’s important to note here that ELLIE PATTERSON is a graduate of Eastern Washington University – one of two in our club. The other graduate is yours truly.
JO DeCHATELET introduced our guests. There were a lot of guests today including former member Rick Rupkey – good to see him!
PRESIDENT DAVE congratulated SCHUY LININGER on his 90th birthday. Apparently PRESIDENT DAVE had missed recognizing SCHUY’s birthday a week earlier. SCHUY has been a member of Rotary for 66 years!
CHARLOTTE HARRIS and BOB LOGAN recognized our recent Paul Harris Fellows. Being recognized were KATIE DUSENBERRY, DON SHROPSHIRE, MIKE ANDERSON, and LARRY ADAMSON – all past presidents of the Club. All were recognized with a special, one-of-a-kind University of Arizona School of Science bookmark!
MARK IRVIN introduced our newest honorary member, Command Chief Master Sergeant DAWNA CNOTA of the 355th Fighter Wing at DMAFB.
PRESIDENT DAVE recognized Lily Elena Schmidt for collecting 7,700 diapers for the Diaper Bank for her birthday – what a remarkable achivement for a young lady! JIM LUBINSKI highlighted the Board of Director nominations. Vote early, vote often … that’s another slogan and probably not FAIR or BENEFICIAL to all concerned… sorry. MATT BLAIR promoted the San Carlos trip. Lots of big wigs going on the trip this year including PRESIDENT DAVE. PAT LENNAN promoted the upcoming Salvation Army Bell Ringing Saturday. Sign up now on Clubrunner. DON ROLLINGS recognized AL GROVE with his Blue Badge. JOE NEVIN promoted the Goodwill Clothes Closet Cleaning Day – bring your gently used items next week to the meeting.
CHARLOTTE HARRIS introduced Art Harrington, Past Regional Rotary Foundation Coordinator for a great program on The Rotary Foundation.
We are mixing it up for the 50/50 raffle.... now when you generously purchase your raffle tickets for the 50/50 drawing, the winning ticket will attempt to draw the Ace of Spades from a deck of cards. The deck would only be comprised of just the face cards and aces. If you pull the Ace of Spades, you will win 50% of the earnings ... if not, the pot carries forward to the next week until the Ace of Spades is drawn, making the return on your $5.00 investment BIG MONEY!!! So, each week that the Ace of Spades is not drawn, the deck will get smaller and the pot will get larger. We will be starting this new raffle in the next few weeks.
As always we appreciate your participation and wish you the best of luck!
Born and raised in Tucson, Jonathan is a native Tucsonan. His grandmother came to Tucson in 1942 and opened Valley Fair, a used furniture store on South 6th Avenue. His father attended Tucson High School and the University of Arizona.
A graduate of Canyon del Oro High School, Kenyon College and the University of New Mexico Law School, Jonathan served as a law clerk for United States District Court Judge Alfredo Marquez. He then joined the law firm of Mesch, Clark & Rothschild, where he served as managing partner from 2001 and 2011. In addition to his own law practice helping businesses and individuals, Jonathan was responsible for the day-to-day management of a 21-attorney firm.
It was another full meeting this week with lots of activities and a very entertaining presentation about the Mt. Lemmon Sky Lab. Having never visited this facility, I certainly have it on my list of things to do for 2014.
November is Rotary International Foundation month. This coming week we will hear from Art Harrington (PDG) about the RI Foundation and the many wonderful things the Foundation does for our Clubs and our international projects around the world. There is so much more than polio eradication although that is a great one and it gets lots of attention. Please come and listen to Art and learn how we can be part of the Every Year Every Rotarian program.
December is right around the corner (your President only has 28 meetings left!) and our annual Holiday trip to San Carlos is December 6. Everyone has received an email about this trip plus an announcement from Matt Blair who is chairing the trip this year. It is a good time to sign up and take part in this Club tradition, which has been going on for 25 years. We can use some extra people and they do not have to be Rotarians. Many years we have had Rotarians from other clubs join us. It is also a great trip to give your children and grandchildren exposure to the international work of Rotary. I took my son when he was 10, and he still remembers the schools and meeting the kids. He had a new Game Boy toy at the time and he was a big hit at the schools. I have some great memories of past Rotarians who aren’t with us any longer. Herb Bloom comes to mind. The last trip I participated in was right after the hurricane had ravaged San Carlos and much of the surrounding area several months before we went down. We saw Rotary at work in one of the small villages that lost pretty much everything and our Club, along with others, helped provide Shelter Boxes for people to live in while rebuilding their homes. We will have a safe and comfortable trip. We will have great fellowship with our Rotarian friends of the San Carlos Club. For many, many years, we have partnered with this Club to make this a great project. The boat ride option is terrific and the restaurants serve great seafood. Our own member, David Pashkow, has donated some money to buy everyone a bunch of margaritas on his dime. David has done this for years and we appreciate toasting him and saying funny stuff about him because he is not there! Thanks David for your generosity. Know that you are missed.
We will have our first meeting for the organization of the drive to raise money and volunteers for our food packing project for "Feed My Starving Children". That meeting is 10:30 AM this Wednesday in the board room of the Double Tree. Please come and learn more about this great project and how we can all help play a small role in celebrating 100 years of Rotary in Arizona. Everyone is welcome to attend.
Finally, let’s not forget our participation in the El Tour with our Rotary Club Riders. There are several events before the ride. I have two dinner tickets for Thursday night at 6:30, November 21 at Casino del Sol with John Hewko and his wife, who are being honored for helping raise over $200,000 at last year’s tour. If you want to go, please let me know. Dinner is on me! Enjoy the week and I look forward to seeing you this Wednesday.
Attention all Rotarian runners! On Sunday, December 8th the annual Tucson Marathon takes place. For the past ten years, The Rotary Club of Tucson has participated in the relay marathon. So if you are an avid runner or if you just run for fun, please join us!
Thank you Rotary, for putting my band to work at The Tucson Classics Car Show. I hope everyone had as much fun as we did. Who says Rotary doesn’t ROCK!
The Middle East emerged in October, 2013 as a new frontier in the Global Polio Eradication Initiative's effort to rid the world of this crippling disease. Syria reported 22 cases of Polio and 10 of these already involve crippling paralysis. The Syrian problem has been exacerbated by the collapse of the public health system due, in part, to the ever violent civil war.
In 2011, before the outbreak of the current civil war, the vaccination rate in Syria was 90 percent.. Now, the rate has slipped to 68 percent. Before the October outbreak, Syria had not reported a case of polio in the last 14 years. The strain of polio in Syria is identical to the strain of polio found in Pakistan. Health officials are at a loss to explain how the Pakistan strain came to be in Syria, but there are some obvious theories since there are a large number of foreign fighters enlisted in the divergent rebel armies and the government forces of President Assad. Also, as perplexing to the scientific community, is that the Pakistani strain has been detected in sewage samples in Israel and Egypt this year.
On November 8, 2013, the BBC reported there was a growing sense of alarm in Europe among the medical communities. Germany was cited as one country that fears an outbreak due to the influx of refugees. The World Health Organization announced on November 8, 2013 that it was beginning a new immunization program in the Middle East with a goal of vaccinating twenty million children.
Dr. Bruce Aylward, of the World Health Organization, expressed concern to the New York Times that 50 million doses of vaccine might be necessary to complete the project. His concern was that some vaccines might be diverted from other countries. Reported cases of polio in 2012 totaled 223. This year the total has jumped to 322. Somalia has reported over half the totals for 2013. Civil war and the lack of a public health system usually hamper or negate vaccination campaigns in countries like Syria and Somalia.
These grim facts underscore the vital effort of our tough cadre of riders who will soon complete the Ride to End Polio as part of the Tour de Tucson. Sixty cents is the cost of a vaccination. Gary Hirsch will be glad to assist you in sponsoring one or more riders.
The Middle East Emerges as a New Frontier in Polio Eradication Efforts
As usual PRESIDENT DAVE called the meeting to order at the strike of noon. PAT ZUMBUSCH provided us a celestial invocation which left one lasting impression in my mind. Marilyn Monroe wants us all to “twinkle”. KEITH WIEGAND led us in the pledge and song with the accompaniment of ELLIE PATTERSON. JERRY HARRIS, in his usual southern manner, did our intros of guests and visiting Rotarians. PRESIDENT DAVE lost me with the whole SCHUY LININGER topic, however he promised it would all be cleared up next week.
AMANDA WOOD was not only a birthday girl this week she is our newest Rotarian. Thanks for the intro of AMANDA, JONI. I have a feeling if Steve Jobs and Rich Rod have hired you AMANDA, you are out of my price range! Impressive intro and welcome to the club.
Our announcements were fast and furious as the schedule was spiraling out of control. PAT LENNAN says RING THE BELL! JENNIFER HOFFMAN wants you to Run Forrest Run. GARY HIRSCH encourages you to eat with the El Tour riders. JOE NEVIN asks you to clean and donate. VIC JACOBS let us welcome PETER AKMAJIAN, TERESA LIVERZANI-BAKER, CONRAD PLIMPTON, and STEVE STEENSON to the blue badge club. JIM LUBINSKI prepped us for our board vote. Most importantly, CHUCK SAWYER let us know after a minor glitch, that EVERYONE got their prizes and are HAPPY! Lastly, we had a great presenter in Alan Strauss. If you couldn’t tell this guy loves what he does and wants to have every kid in Tucson experience his mountain top camp, you were not listening. What great passion for the next generation who will be our future leaders. We closed out with a big thanks to CHUCK for his grand leadership with the car show.
Our Rotary Foundation is indeed “the enabling arm” of Rotary International, which has become one of the most respected and powerful “can do” organizations in the world. I will be sharing how the recent restructure of our Foundation has strengthened it and opened even greater opportunities for us in the future to meet needs and change lives in communities around the world.
As we approach the Holiday Season, the choice of wines to pair with our Holiday Meals often gets pushed to the bottom of our priorities. A mad last minute dash to the wine store or grocery store wine department may not yield the best results.
My recommendations are based on my personal standards and are certainly not based on wine snobbery or expertise. Just my personal experience and observations play into my selections. For a traditional Holiday meal with turkey, ham, dressing, gravy, sweet potatoes, cranberry sauce, and vegetables, I recommend Pinot Noir and Zinfandel as the red wines of choice. I serve both so people can have a choice. Pinot Noir is the most fickle grape to grow, harvest, and convert to wine. The three Pinots I recommend are special occasion wines. Good Pinots are hard to find and there are few bargains when you factor in quality. Pinots are low in acid and tannins and therefore do not clash with the many different flavors at a normal Holiday table. Zinfandel is simply the best food wine. It is both fruity and full bodied without heavy tannins or intrusive acids.
1. The Maysara, Pinot Noir, 2009 Ramsheed, is from Oregon. This wine is full bodied and structured but yet has a good fruity tartness. I have enjoyed this wine with salmon, duck, and catfish several times this summer. It paired well with all three.
2. The Bishop Creek, Pinot Noir, Valois Reserve, 2008, is another full bodied, well structured, and complex Pinot, with pleasant but tart, cherry flavors. I had this with Salmon one night and stuffed peppers the next night and it paired well with both.
3. The Foxen, 2010 Pinot Noir, Block 8- Bien Nacido is from the famed Bien Nacido Vineyard in Santa Maria Valley, California. Foxen is one of the best wineries in California. It produces excellent Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The winery is located in Santa Barbara County. This wine is also full bodied and more complex than the other two. It is also more expensive.
All three of these wines are pleasant and dependable. They also need decanting for at least an hour before serving and the Foxen can stand two hours of decanting.
Zinfandels are attractive not only for their flavors and versatility but for their price. These four zinfandels are all less than $20 and are good choices for Holidays. None are tannic and they all need 45 minutes decanting at most.
1, Edmeades, Mendocino Canyon, less than $15 is always a good choice. Medium to full bodied with pleasant fruit flavors and some peppery spice.
2. Ridge, Three Valleys. Sourced from three different vineyards in Sonoma, this is always good, full bodied, complex, and ripe, fruity flavors.
3. Seghesio, Sonoma Valley, as good as the Ridge with same characteristics.
4. Seven Deadly Zins. I hate the cute name, but winemaker Michel Phillips always turns out an attractive wine for an affordable price. This wine is almost equal in quality to the Ridge and Seghesio. They are more full bodied and complex. But this is a good wine and it is usually around $10 a bottle.
As to white wines, I like Sauvignon Blanc and a mixed grape bottling called Conundrum. Conundrum contains sauvignon blanc, semillion, chardonnay, and several other grapes. I like it because of its individual taste and its ease in blending with most all Holiday meals.
Here’s former RCOT member Maggie Kosinski during her induction into the Summerville (South Carolina) Rotary. She is seen bonding with South Carolina Governor, Nikki Haley. Maggie says Haley is an incredible lady,
“ …. highly impressed with her. It is evident that she really gets it on how to fix things in SC. We could surely use her help in fixing the mess in DC. SC is really an upbeat place to live. Best wishes to my Rotary friends in Tucson.”
President DAVE GALLAHER started what would be a very busy meeting right on time. TED KIRACOFE led club with a meaningful invocation and JAN GREEN led the pledge. LESLIE GALLOWAY got the group singing “This Land is Your Land” with ELLIE PATTERSON accompanying on the piano. DOT KRET gave the group a lesson on how to properly introduce guests and visitors.
There were three in the Birthday Club; BILL HARLOW threw out a challenge to the club to find a taller fraternity member than himself, JUDY KEAGY spoke wonderful words about her 20 years as a member and JACK MAREK said that he was not responsible for starting the Kent State Riot.
Sergeant at Arms JENNIFER HOFFMAN located LINDSAY BISHOP and we learned that LINDSAY is an excellent shot with a gun and she shot her first deer – GO GIRL POWER!! The winning ticket was drawn for the 50/50 raffle as well as two gift baskets of Car Show glasses. MATT BLAIR spoke about how romantic the San Carlos trip is and Assistant Governor Blaine Moyer invited us all to attend the Rio Rico Rotary Club fund raiser. VICKIE JACOBS and MIKE ORCUTT presented three new blue badges to ANDREW MARTIN, JIM STUDWELL and KEITH WIEGAND.
After instructing us all to pay the ASU pizza delivery guy on our front porch, JEFF RONSTADT introduced our guest speaker Fonda Insley. Fonda spoke about the interesting history of the 24th Annual All Souls Procession. We learned how a small event has evolved over the years into an event that is recognized around the World.
Wow. What an interesting program this past week about the All Souls Procession history in Tucson. All Souls Procession is November 3 and brings thousands of people to Tucson. Fonda’s presentation was interesting and the event is becoming well known throughout the United States. Look for pictures of some of your fellow Rotarians in this year’s march.
Cooler weather is finally upon us and this month we are celebrating several things. First, November is Rotary Foundation month. The Rotary International Foundation performs incredible work around the world and here at home. Every Year Every Rotarian is a program that promotes every Rotarian making an annual contribution to Rotary. Mine is $20/month automatically deducted from my checking account. Our goal as a Club is to have every member contribute $150 for the year. Think about it, that is $12.50 per month. Our contributions to the general fund for the Foundation make interest and come back to the Clubs as District Grants. This fund is what is helping us with our Bolivia sanitation project in the Andes. We will have several speakers this month that will help explain the many programs that the Foundation supports. Please join me in supporting the Rotary International Foundation.
I should remind you that we currently have a Club bet for $1000 with the Phoenix 100 Club for the following categories: 1) largest increase/decrease in membership for the year; 2) largest per capita contributions to RI Foundation; 3) highest percentage of Paul Harris Fellows per membership. Contributing to the RI Foundation and qualifying for your Paul Harris Fellow will help us win this bet. The winning Club gets to pick the charity of their choice for the $1000 contribution.
Alan L. Strauss, Ph.D. is the Director of the Mount Lemmon SkyCenter & UA Science: Sky School since 2012. He provides ongong vision, leadership, direction and support to the SkyCenter and Sky School in all aspects of planning, operation, budgeting and programming. He coordinates the Sky Ambassador Science teacher professional development outreach program. Dr. Strauss collaborates on research and E/PO grant development with Astronomy and Lunar and Planetary Laboratory faculty, as well as other departments and outside agencies/institutions in ways that further the mission and vision of the SkyCenter. He directs UA Science: Sky School, an immersive residential science school for K-12 students housed at the SkyCenter. (http://skyschool.arizona.edu) and coordinates ongoing assessment and program evaluation.
Happy Halloween to the RCOT! Some of you are still recovering from the most successful Tucson Classics Car Show and a big "thanks" to all of the membership.
As we close the door on this year's car show, we move into November, which is Rotary Foundation month. The Rotary International Foundation performs incredible work around the world and we will honor Foundation month November 13th with a special presentation about the work and numerous projects around the world. The Foundation supports International work in Literacy, Peace and Conflict Resolution, Sanitation, and Education. As we speak, our Club's International project in a small village in the Andes of Bolivia moves forward. Several other clubs have joined us in sponsoring a project to build latrines in a remote Bolivian village. We currently have a former U of A graduate student with Engineers Without Borders on the ground in Bolivia helping complete this project.
We'll see you October 30th with an entertaining program about Tucson and the All Souls Procession on November 3rd. If interested see me or Ralph Phillips about marching in this year's procession. It's a great Tucson tradition.
From Thursday afternoon, October 17th (when teams began marking the vendor booths around the field and figuring the car rows on the field), to Sunday midday, October 20th (when everything is back as it was) a miracle happened! I wish I had time-lapse pictures of this transformation because it always amazes me. Thanks to hundreds of Rotarians, spouses, and other volunteers (too numerous to name) we DID “Finish Strong”!!!
For those of you who could not make it to set up on Friday, in addition to Rotarians and other volunteers, we had first time participation by St. Gregory students who numbered over 20 and were a huge help. Even former member BEN HAWKINS came down from his new home in Pinetop and stayed the whole three days to help out, bringing a front-loader to help us with heavy lifting. Other group volunteer help for the show came from Youth On Their Own, APO (sorority), Boy/Cub Scouts, Assisteens, Rotary scholarship students, Chase Bank, Carondelet, Joint Technical Education District (JTED), Reading Seed, Sabino High Drama Club, University High Key Club, St. Phillips in the Foothills, and Rotaract students.
We were sold out a week early with 431 entries to fit onto the field (plus 33 on a list awaiting a cancellation). Even though it was tight, we did it with ease thanks to the expert SCIS teams and outstanding records provided by KANDIE and DREW VACTOR. By 9:30 AM the field was full of entrants doing the last minute polishing and prepping for the hoards of visitors.
Chair CHUCK SAWYER had some new innovations this year including the new kid's area and the Winner’s Circle. Not only were our past winners themselves impressive but the presentation was outstanding with red ropes to cordon them off and huge blue prize ribbons by each one. The Rillito River Band with our own JOHN MCCALEB added some real class to our show and even inspired some to get up and dance. Maybe we need a dance floor next year?? The Tucson Barbershop eXperience sang the national anthem which was a fun change. The steady flow of visitor cars parking on site were better managed thanks to negotiations with a ranch owner (at southwest corner of Craycroft and the bridge) for use of their property for an exit road from the rear parking lot, while new off-site parking and free shuttles handled the overflow.
During the peak hours on the field, one could hardly maneuver through the crowd of people to see the many beautiful cars and trucks displayed. Many groups of car entrants sat enjoying the perfect weather, visiting among themselves and enjoying the chance to tell visitors about their cars and trucks. Fellow Rotarians also had smiles on their faces, having fun while they worked, soaking up the excitement of the day. When the show cars all exited the field we enjoyed them one last time, thanked them for coming and invited them to “come back next year”.
While we wait for the bills to be finalized to determine our “bottom line”, know that this show is Rotary at its finest. The talents of every member of our club coming together to organize and execute this huge event is impressive. Not only do we earn an impressive amount of money to give back to our community, we work as a "team" to provide a family event for our whole community to enjoy. WELL DONE ROTARY CLUB OF TUCSON!
Today we find ourselves organizing over 35,000 participants on the streets of downtown Tucson for a two-mile long human-powered procession that ends in the finalizing action of burning a large urn filled with the hopes, offerings and wishes of the public for those who have passed. Inside the event are myriads of installation art, altars, performers, and creatives of all kinds collaborating for almost half the year to prepare their offerings to this amazing event. The All Souls Procession, and now the entire All Souls Weekend, is a celebration and mourning of the lives of our loved ones who have passed.
We had an enthusiastic meeting this week about our car show for this weekend. It is simply amazing how this show comes together and the leadership in this year’s show has been fantastic. Thank you Chuck and the rest of the TLT Team. Thanks to all members who contribute in whatever way possible. By the time you read this the show is history and the results of our efforts should be significant with the monies we raise for community charities. We had great weather and lots of unbelievable cars and a dedicated group of members and volunteers. Our customers had an awesome experience. I have a feeling this show was the best ever thanks to so many people. Our own member Dan Guare won the Corvette on Saturday and of course he can expect a large fine for his lucky win. Congratulations Dan!! Can I borrow the car next weekend? We should have some pictures on our Facebook page soon.
This week is dark so enjoy the break. We have an entertaining program for October 30 which will discuss the All Souls Procession to be held November 3rd here in Tucson. I don’t want to spoil the fun so I won’t say much, but this event has become widely known throughout the country, and thousands of people come from outside of Tucson to experience this interesting cultural event. You may remember those crazy pictures from last year when I marched the first time through downtown with fellow Rotarians Mark Irvin and Ralph Phillips and RYE student Eric Peng. I can’t wait to march again and hopefully we can get a group of Rotarians to march at this year’s event.
Please remember the Foundation seminar and dinner on November 2 and call me or Dorinna to register. We need a minimum of two people to attend the seminar during the day so we qualify for eligibility to participate with Rotary International grants.
Recently twelve Rotarians were honored for outstanding community service at the White House at the weekly Champions for Change meeting. This program recognizes outstanding Americans in many fields such as community service, science, teaching, and the arts.
Rotary International President, Sakuji Tanaka, said the honorees exemplify how Rotary brings people together to solve problems that are too large for one person to tackle. The twelve Rotarians honored as Champions of Change are:
Tom Barnes, Cedar Rapids, Iowa. He leads a project that provides new shoes to 3,500 children from low-income families across the state.
Bob Dietrick, Franklin Tennessee. He is the driving force behind Operation Starfish, a club project that provides clean water and sanitation to local low income residents.
John Germ, Chattanooga, Tennessee. Fund raiser for our Polio initiative.
Peggy Halderman, Golden, Colorado. Heads a Rotary project that feeds low income children in Golden.
Nancy Hughes, Eugene, Oregon. Heads a Rotary project that provides safe and efficient cooking stoves to low income families in Central America.
Walter Hughes, Jr., Rocky Mount, Virginia. Heads up clean water projects in Africa.
Ann Lee Hussey, Portland, Maine. A polio survivor, she leads immunization projects in Africa and India.
Jeremy Lowney,Jr., Norwich, Connecticut. Led effort to upgrade health care in Haiti.
Douglas McNeil, Los Gatos, California. Leads youth mentoring projects and a local project providing solar lighting systems for low income citizens.
Herriett Schloer, Bend, Oregon. Launched immunization program that provides all school children in area free immunization.
Bonnie Sirower, Paterson, New Jersey. Headed a relief effort for victims of Hurricane Sandy.
Neil Vasquez-Rowland, Chicago, Illinois. Established Safe Haven in 1994. Helps the homeless, and people with addiction, hunger, and chronic unemployment problems.
This past weekend, Marshall Dennington, President Dave, and Dominic Dresp with RYE, participated in the annual RYE Hike to Havasupai Canyon on October 10, 2013. All seven of District 5500 RYE students attended plus nine from District 5490. The trip involved a hike down to Havasu Falls and surrounding hikes while staying at the campground. We feared cold weather but everything worked out perfectly. It was an awesome trip. This is truly one of the best spots to visit in Arizona. This was Dave's 15th trip.
DAVE called the meeting to order right on time although he broke his glass trying to get everyone to quiet down. To everyone's surprise we found out there is a car show on Saturday, October 19, 2013. We heard every detail and all the people that have worked so hard are to be congratulated. All those who didn't are going to be asked to stand and tell everyone why.
We had the birthday boy MARSHALL DENNINGTON, who not only had a birthday but he led the singing. There are rumors that he auditioned for the TV show, the Voice. JERRY HARRIS also had a birthday and was recognized for selling more tickets than anyone, good job JERRY. MARK IRVIN celebrated his birthday, along with our esteemed President DAVE GALLAHER, but PAT LENNAN was surprised that he wasn't still in detention. PAT said there must have been a worse kid in his school but he couldn't think of anyone.
We had a wonderful Invocation offered by SUSAN MOORE VAULT. Thank you, SUSAN.
By the way, if you don't come to the car show you will miss the best event of the year. Be sure to be there, KATHY KITAGAWA will be taking names.
Katia received her heart surgery on October 8th at the University of Arizona Medical Center and is seen here with some of the U of A women's basketball players. Katia was released afterwards, went home to the Gallahers and returned to her home in northern Arizona on Sunday, October 13th.
Gift of Life-Arizona is a project of the Rotary Clubs of Arizona Districts 5490, 5500 and 5510. The mission is to provide heart surgery for needy children from around the world who are suffering with congenital heart defects.
Due to all the hard work of the membership for the Car Show, there will be no lunch meeting on Wednesday, October 23, 2013. See you at the next scheduled meeting on Wednesday, October 30th at the DoubleTree.
Through October 2, 2013, worldwide cases of new Wild Poliovirus infections have risen when compared to the same period in 2012. Last year, the world wide total was 134. This year, to date, the world wide total is 287 newly reported cases. The incidents last year were confined to four countries. Chad and the three endemic countries, Nigeria, Afghanistan, and Pakistan were the only countries reporting new incidents at this time last year. This year, Chad has no new reported cases. Nigeria had 73 cases at this time last year. In 2013, only 49 have been reported year to date. Afghanistan is down from 19 last year to six this year. Pakistan is down from 40 last year to 36 this year.
The Horn of Africa is the new problem area. Somalia alone has reported 175 new cases this year. South Sudan has reported 3, Kenya 14, and Ethiopia 4. Also, the Wild Poliovirus has been detected in sewage samples taken in Israel, but no actual human infections have been detected and reported.
Rotary International has responded to the recent outbreaks by approving a $500,000 grant to the World Health Organization to address the recent polio outbreak in the Banadir region of Somalia.
To date this year, five vaccination campaigns have been held in Somalia, three in Kenya, two each in Yemen and Ethiopia and one in Djibouti. Rotary has furnished emergency funding for vaccination drives in other countries. These grants are designed to swiftly address the outbreaks by funding massive vaccination campaigns.
A new area of concern is importation countries. These countries have at one time been polio free, but because of the explosive political situation in the Horn of Africa, cases of polio have occurred because of the countries' travel ties or proximity to the endemic countries. Refugees and refugee camps are a main part of the problem. These countries include the Central African Republic, Chad, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ethiopia, Israel, Kenya, Liberia, Mali, Niger, Somalia, and Uganda.
The United Kingdom and Japan have recently made multimillion dollar grants to the World Health Organization with the funds specifically earmarked for polio prevention campaigns and vaccination programs in the Horn of Africa. This fall, massive vaccination programs are planned in the Banadir region of Somalia and in other crucial countries.
Soon we will be asked to sponsor riders in the Tour de Tucson. These sponsorship funds go the the Rotary End Polio initiative. A single vaccination only costs less than 60 cents. This will be a great opportunity for the Rotary Club of Tucson to express our support of the fine and effective efforts of Rotary International in the fight to end polio.
At the press conference, Mayor Rothschild announcing a drive to add 500 Reading Seed volunteers.
We have more than doubled the number of Reading Seed volunteer reading coaches in our community — 607 new volunteers as of last week!
Reading Seed is a program of Literacy Connects that pairs trained volunteer reading coaches with children in grades K-3 who are behind in their reading skills. There’s no set curriculum. Children read books on subjects they like. Yet this informal approach yields results — faster reading gains than children without a reading coach.
According to the 2011 National Assessment of Educational Progress, 74% of Arizona 4th graders read at a level below proficient and 42% read at a level below basic. That’s not good news, because children who don’t read at grade level by the end of 3rd grade are four times more likely to drop out or fail to graduate high school on time.
I worked with the Arizona Daily Star to get the word out about this great program and the need for volunteers. Many thanks to everyone who volunteered or donated — including, of course, the Rotary Club of Tucson and the Tucson Festival of Books, long-time supporters of Reading Seed and Literacy Connects.
Reading Seed - Helping Every Child Read by 3rd Grade
What a great meeting, what a great day and what an opportunity we had to see a great group of high school students from the Jovert Steel Drum Band lead by Khris Dodge. The meeting started with the usual suspects, PAULINE HECHLER gave a rousing invocation and the Pledge and Song were led by none other than, LESLIE GALLOWAY. We sang “America the Beautiful”. Introduction of visitors and guests was done by CHRIS EDWARDS. Birthdays were observed for JIM MURPHY, RICH FLYNN and MIKE ORCUTT.
DAVE’S ANGELS fined LINDSEY GANIN now BISHOP for getting married. Wow we should pay here. And an auction was held for a really great gift certificate to Five Palms Restaurant this was won by MIKE ORCUTT. The Pizza was interesting to say the least. Many announcements were made about the Car Show which is October 19, 2013 and the Friday night dinner and auction. Our program was super wonderful. Young people with steel drums playing the best of the islands type of music and I was only missing my margarita. Great change from having a real speaker. Thanks and cheers to the Program Committee. The meeting was closed on time of course and with a toast by our worthy Patriarch of the Realm of Rotary, PRESIDENT DAVE GALLAHER.
Wow! If you missed this past week you missed a great music experience provided by Jovert, the steel drum band from Tucson High School. The performance and music selection was awesome and the Rowdies danced up a storm in the back. All we needed was some beach, flip flops and a bathing suit. Check out the post on our Facebook page Tucson Rotary. If you have not “liked” us yet, this is a great opportunity to do so.
We are closing in on the execution of the 7th Annual Tucson Classics Car Show. A big thank you goes out to the leadership for this year’s Car Show Chair, Chuck Sawyer. Chuck and I have had a great week promoting the show on radio and TV. I think there is a media spot in Chuck’s future. We had fun on the Morning Blend, KXCI, and KVOI. I have a much better face for radio! IF you have not yet signed up for a shift, please call Dot Kret. We still have empty spots and it’s easy. It will all come full circle when we award monies to our community charities this coming year.
Our Gift of Life recipient, Katia, is recovering in ICU at UMC this weekend and the whole experience has been very meaningful to Susan and me. Katia is 13 and is doing remarkably well. Her mom is finally relaxing just a bit. I have to thank my wife, Susan, for all her work this week. She has been there at all times for Katia’s mom and daughter. I love her for saying yes to being a part of this incredible experience. We thank UMC for their participation in this great program. Katia will have a full normal life and the Rotary Clubs of Arizona made this happen. I have asked PDG 5490 Gary Whiting to speak to us in the Spring and provide more details about this special program.
I am off to Havasupai Canyon for the 4th or 5th time with RYE students from Districts 5490 and 5500 plus adults. I love this trip and watching the interaction and bonding of our RYE students from all parts of the world. They all have something in common and the hike and the canyon bring out the best in everyone. I have also made some great Rotary friendships the past couple of years with Rotarians from all over Arizona.
Next week’s program is important and we will hear the final details about our Car Show. Have a great week!
Attention Rotarians, anyone who ordered a Rotary Club shirt they will be available on October 16th at the Rotary meeting. Shirts will also be available at St. Gregory’s on Thursday, October 17th and Friday, October 18th. Thank you.
I was excited to hear more about the Sonoran Glass Academy at this week’s meeting. The Academy is one of the premier glass blowing schools and is a resource for glass blowing around the country. Susan and I may even visit for the “Blow Your Own Pumpkin” festival October 4, 5, and 6. Our own member David Pashkow is on their board and thanks to David for setting up this entertaining program.
This week’s program will be Tucson High’s steel drum band Jovert. Wear your Tommy Bahama shirt and flip flops. These kids are great and Kris Dodge has done a great job with Jovert. Be ready for a musical treat.
We had a very busy meeting this week and please remember to sign up October 9 for work details for the Car Show on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. For our STAR members it is required to spend at least part of two days on the weekend of the show. Also, please sign up for the Friday night chicken dinner. This dinner is another fun evening of fellowship for our membership. If you can, please help by donating an auction item. We have some really cool auction items that will be had by some lucky bidder. The dinner is October 18, Friday, 5:30-8:30 PM at St Gregory’s. The cost is $10 and please register on the Tucson Classics Car Show website at www.tucsonclassicscarshow.com.
This weekend, RCOT will be hosting the 300th Gift of Life heart surgery recipient who is Kaitia and she is 14 years old and from Sedona. The Gift of Life program is Rotary supported by the three Rotary Districts in Arizona. Kaitia and her mom will be staying with the Gallahers and we have several support volunteers but we could use a few more. Volunteering means providing transportation back and forth for the mom until Kaitia is able to leave and rehabilitate at the Gallahers. Our hope is for the Club to meet mother and daughter at the October 16 meeting provided Kaitia is able to attend.
This end of the week we had a successful Interact meeting at Amphi High School that was attended by 40 students with the school principal along with two school teacher volunteers. Thanks to Jim Lubinski, Sally Montagne, Cindy Godwin, Darrell Stewart, and especially Allyn Bulzomi for being a part of this meeting. We are on the way to the first ever RCOT Interact Club.
Fall is in full swing. We have lots of stuff going on! Engage Rotary-Change Lives! Have a great week.
President DAVE started the meeting on time, a relief with a busy day that we did not know how busy we were going to be! Paul Harris awards were presented.
Now, let’s get right down to “brass tacks”.
FINISH STRONG
WE have 12 days to the car show and we are on track to set a record for profits, way to go everyone. WE have sold 17,000 ticket sales, another record, way to go team! A GOAL has been set to sell another 6,000 tickets over the remaining days, and we can achieve this with everyone’s help. Keep in mind the on- line sales close October 16, 2013.
Car Show part 2. Only 52% of the positions for the day of the event have been filled. We need all of you to help. If you are going to be out of town and miss the event, would you consider recruiting a volunteer to help in your stead?
A shout out to TERESA LIVERZANI-BAKER who gifted the magnetic car stickers on your table. I saw a number already attached to their cars as we were leaving on Wednesday. A reminder that we need items for the silent auction the night before the event, I am sure you will continue to hear more about this on Wednesday.
Cheer hard for STACIA DECKER and family as their son is going to the Jet Ski Worlds in Lake Havasu next weekend. Links are below:
Now for the fun, I know where to get fresh fish, buffalo meat, and doves. From the members, of course! What I learned from our table, dove hunting season opens this weekend, there are 3 types of birds in AZ, and it is possible to get all three in one day, if you drive fast. To cook them, wrap in bacon, seasonings, olive oil, and cook slowly, and remember more than one is needed to fill up.
When I got near driving age, my Dad couldn't hold me back, so when I was 15 he found an absolutely horrible looking Model A that he "encouraged" me to buy with everything I had in my meager checking account at the time -- $110. It took me most of the next year to get it running and I started driving it to Palo Verde high school about a month before my 16th birthday so I could be on the track team.
On my 16th birthday, Dad rode with me to MVD to get my driver's license, so I could legally drive it to school. I got pulled over and cited for having the wrong license plates (we "borrowed" them off our old ranch bus). With huge disappointment, I qualified in the family station wagon that Mom had been in, following us to take Dad home. Later in the day, I got called to the principal's office where my Dad presented me with the keys and registration. The ticket was dismissed. We could get just about anything done in this town back in the day.
I did all the work on the "A" except painting, which my Dad did for me in 1957 Chevy Blue. It had a chicken wire top and folding chairs. My parents’ birthday present to me that year was upholstery and it had beautiful baby blue tuck and roll until a few months ago. I went to Syracuse my freshman year in college and my sister drove the "A" to high school. It looked a bit faded, so she convinced my Dad to paint it Pink (and my sister later added a red pin-stripe and white wall tires). She drove it for two years until she went to college, then my baby sister drove it. She was Miss U of A and it was prominently featured in one of the promo pix taken at the airport when the first DC-10 came to Tucson.
It then sat in the desert for about 8 years until Kandie and I rescued it one day by putting in a little fuel and water, rolling it down the hill and popping the clutch. We drove it for the next year but I got tired of guys whistling at me in a pink car. Kandie and I put in another 600 hours of work fixing a lot of things I skipped over the first time, including some badly needed Bondo work. Dad painted it a third time, back to blue, again, but this time with black fenders as Henry intended (Model A's were available in about 14 colors, many two-toned).
Here is what it looked like in the first three versions:
And in the final version: It was not nearly as easy to crank start as the Model T. It had a higher compression engine and was normally started with a positive ground electric starter, but I had to start it with the crank plenty of times. In fact, when we painted it back to blue, we nostalgically left the crank and running board gate pink. I am telling this story, and including everyone on the list, because I have followed the car's progress and it will be in our car show this year!
I owned the car for 35 years, but sold it many years ago to make room for SCUBA diving gear in my garage. I was contacted a few years ago by Fred Harrison in Sierra Vista who had purchased it and was rebuilding it, yet again. It is now brown with black fenders. It is a work in progress in this picture. In this picture, you can still see my old baby blue tuck and roll on the driver's seat and the white wall tires my sister put on it.
When people hear Jovert, they will hear familiar songs…they just won’t hear them in a familiar way. When Jovert plays, listeners can expect to be surprised, enlightened, and above all, entertained. Movement, theatrics, and choreography are very much a part of each Jovert performance.
Students from Tucson High Magnet School in Tucson, Arizona make up Jovert. Originally started in 1991 as the Tucson High Steel Band, the program developed over its first few years, but remained small until its present director, Khris Dodge, arrived on the scene in 1999.
I was waiting for President DAVE GALLAHER to start the meeting, and it never happened. I then realized this was a full on social event. In a way this was an excellent change, however if the Sergeant of Arms had been present, I am sure it could have been very profitable.
For a number of years I have been driving to Armory Park for children’s Irish dancing lessons, volunteering there, and various other activities. I had always seen this building and over time wondered what it was, now I know, the following is the history of the house.
The Stillwell House, a two story, red brick, territorial-style home, was built in 1901 for James Twiggs, an Irish inn-keeper. Along with his wife, Lucy Stillwell-Twiggs, James operated the home as a boardinghouse for railroad workers. It had six rooms downstairs and six upstairs with a central hallway on each floor. An unsubstantiated rumor had to with a still. With an Irishman owner, renting out 6 rooms to railroad workers a very plausible theory.
In 2001, native Tucsonan and experienced event planner Candace Flores Carrillo, along with her family, purchased the property with a vision to merge all three spaces in order to become a premier destination party location by offering a number of unique on-site services. Candace, a certified wedding planner, along with her aunt General Manager Wilma Levine and mother, executive chef Carlotta Flores, aim to please the clients’ every wish and desire. Inspired by her family's own legacy the famed El Charro Cafe, Candace has merged tantalizing cuisine with the simple elegance and built in ambiance of the Stillwell House and Garden.
We had a great time at our Club meeting/fellowship/mixer at the Stillwell House (downtown) this past week. I had looked forward to this for some time and many thanks to Darrell Stewart for his work in planning this event and to Mary Martin and Jo DeChetelet for helping check people in. If you missed some of Jerry Harris’ wines it is a shame. Thank you, Jerry. Jerry’s donation helped us raise some serious bucks for the club. We had 100 Rotarians and guests and it was a lovely evening downtown. This event replaced our Club meeting this week so please make sure you make up if you missed it.
This week’s program is about the Sonoran Glass Academy. I think you will all be impressed that we have such a recognized glass blowing school right here in our backyard. This is a fun place and I look forward to learning more about it.
In this week’s bulletin, read about our Club’s involvement with the Gift of Life program where we will be hosting the 300th recipient of corrective heart surgery. The recipient is a 14 year old girl from Sedona and the surgery will take place on October 8th. Susan and I are hosting the daughter and mother. We need several volunteers to provide moral support to this family during their stay. The Gift of Life program in Arizona is supported by the three Rotary Districts 5500, 5490 and 5510. Please let me or Susan know if we can put you on the list to help this family.
Have a great week and only 22 days to the Tucson Classics Car Show!
Many in our club have not had the opportunity of meeting a needy child who is suffering from a congenital heart defect and without medical and surgical intervention, the child will not have the opportunity for a normal and healthy life and in some cases not long to live. Well we are all going to have this opportunity as the Gift of Life-Arizona project will be providing surgery for their 300th child here in Tucson at the University of Arizona Medical Center on Tuesday, October 8th. The surgery will be performed by Dr. Michael Teodori whom some of you met at the District Conference this last year.
The GOL-AZ project sent out a message this last week asking for a Tucson Rotarian to step forward and become a Home Host Family for the mother and child during and after the surgery with the time projected to be about three weeks. My wife, Susan and I couldn’t let this opportunity pass us by and we have volunteered. As you know, we have opened our home to Rotary Exchange Students in the past and this is just another opportunity to help build a new friendship and help someone in need.
Katia Rodriquez is a 14 year old girl from Sedona, AZ and is one of 4 children being raised by a single mother. She is suffering from a congenital heart defect known as ASD, or in common terms, a large hole between two chambers of her heart that must be patched up before anymore damage is done as she grows and more demand is placed on her heart.
Home Hosting is doing some of the duties that you would extend to any member of your own family, such as transportation, feeding and providing a comfortable home setting while Katia is recovering. This will provide all our members the opportunity to get to know Katia, visit her in the hospital, share with some transportation help and come to our home and make her and mother feel the warmth and welcome from Tucson Rotarians. Then, as she recovers, we will bring Katia and mother to a club meeting.
In summary, Gift of Life-Arizona is a project of the Rotary Clubs of Arizona Districts 5490, 5500 and 5510 with the mission to provide heart surgery for needy children from around the world who are suffering from serious congenital heart defects. Katia will be the 29th child from Arizona with the other 271 coming from 23 different countries.
We are excited to share in this experience and hope that you will share as well.
This program will give an overview of Sonoran Glass School (SGS), a non-profit glass art school located in downtown Tucson. The presentation will include a brief history of glass art, the school and description of the programs offered which benefit people in the Tucson community and how the plans to grow the school in the upcoming years.
Have you ever found yourself in a position of having to do a Make-Up for a missed meeting? Of course you have and these are some of your options.
Go online and do a make-up, that’s probably the easiest and least time consuming. There is even a link from the club’s website that will take you to a plethora of make-up topics. You spend 30 + minutes reviewing articles and then fill out the make-up form and submit it along with a donation and you are done (they can even email a copy back to our club).
Another option is to visit other local clubs. It is a great way to see how other clubs operate and meet fellow Rotarians. You might even hear an interesting speaker from the Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms Department present on “Operation Fast and Furious”, which led to a lot of discussion afterwards.
Did you know that you could count attendance at a Rotary committee meeting or Rotary event as a make-up if it is done within the two week before or two week after a missed meeting? There’s an incentive to attend those “pre-car show committee meetings”.
A final option is to attend a Rotary meeting while you are traveling. The author has done make-ups in Barcelona, Spain and Antigua, one of the Leeward Islands in the Eastern Caribbean. Each was a memorable experience. One key is to make contact with the Club President before leaving Tucson to introduce yourself, and get logistical information (e.g. day, time, location and cost of meeting). Don’t forget to get our Club flag(s) from either Dorinna or Arla prior to leaving (and remembering to pack them).
The meeting in Barcelona was a dinner (starting at 8:00 pm and ending after midnight). The Club was celebrating their one year anniversary and the District Governor was there. The author was fortunate enough to have two bilingual Rotarians seated on either side of him. One of the members phone rang during the meeting and he answered the call at the table….no fine. The members were discussing ideas for service projects and literacy seemed to be one of them. After dinner, as true Europeans, the male members took a short break and went out to smoke cigars.
The meeting in Antigua was very enlightening as well. The meeting was conducted in English. The Club is over 40 years old and has several service projects including recycling, children’s vision project, meals on wheels, wheel chair project, computers for the world, and a diabetic foot care project. The Club President Phil Harris addressed other Rotarians as Rotarian Mike, Sharon, so on. Fines were levied for infractions (e.g. viewing your I-Pad, side-bar conversations). Club flags were exchanged and pictures taken. Rotarian Sharon gave the author a ride back to the cruise terminal.
Whether you do a make-up at a local club or worldwide, Rotary is one big family and you will feel immediately at home. Rotarians worldwide strive to make their communities and the world a better place.
Wednesday, September 25th will be our Member Social Mixer. This replaces our regular Wednesday lunch meeting. The Mixer will be held at the Stillwell House located at 134 S. 5th Avenue, Tucson from 5:30-8:30 p.m.
If you are not attending the Social Mixer, please remember to do a make up for this meeting.
Have fun and enjoy the fellowship with your Rotarian Family!
Got pack rats? You missed a good meeting to learn all about them from Marc Hammond with the Animal Experts. Mark came back to us for an encore performance with interesting exhibits and fascinating but meaningful conversation about our local animals that might be a nuisance. He brought the wildlife rehabilitator, Darlene Braastad, who had a very well behaved Harris Hawk. Thank you Marc and Darlene for another well received program.
We began last week’s meeting with a moment of silence honoring the life of PDG Val Scanlan, who passed away on September 13th from her bout with brain cancer. Val carried on a strong fight and remained optimistic towards the very end. We honor Val for her 24 years of work as a proud Rotarian including a term as District Governor. Please refer to www.valscanlan.com for updates about her services.
We are entering high gear for the Tucson Classics Car Show time and please sign up for a volunteer spot if you have not already. We have many shifts available for many different things. See Chuck or Dot Kret for direction if you have not signed up. Sunday is a great day to celebrate our fellowship and a job well done. The larger the crowd on Sunday, the sooner we will finish. I think prior years we have finished the clean up task by 11:00 AM.
Please remember our fellowship week with our meeting/mixer at the Stillwell House on September 25th from 5:30-8:30PM. El Charro is providing the food, and wine, beer and soft drinks will be available. This mixer replaces our lunch meeting of 9/25. See you there!
Would you believe that we have among our members a shoeshiner extraordinaire? When Ellie Patterson first came to Tucson in the mid-eighties, she wanted to do something totally different from her previous career as a high school guidance counselor in Idaho. She took a year off from counseling and right off the bat she and two of her friends biked from Canada to Mexico over a six week period, camping wherever they could find shelter. This obviously prepared her to ride in the El Tour de Tucson representing the Rotary Club of Tucson!
The experience was a really good one and the three women contemplated opening a bike touring company before it really became the thing to do. But, instead, Ellie responded to a classified ad and was hired as a shoeshiner at the Triple “T” Truck stop shining shoes, making a lot of money! Already having a Masters degree in Education and Counseling under her belt, she took enough notes on the psyche of a truck driver to compile a PhD dissertation (which she never completed but could still use to write a book!)
Eventually, tired of shining shoes, Ellie listened to a good friend from the East coast who suggested the idea of opening a staffing company. Since she had no experience in this industry, Ellie first applied for a branch manager job in a large national staffing company in Tucson competing with five other candidates. She says she got the job because the hiring person announced that this job required a lot of energy and Ellie replied, “well, I run marathons.” She got the job!
Twenty years ago, Ellie and her business partner, Cindy Dhuey, decided to open their own staffing business called The Temp Connection. They have worked with over 2,000 clients and have placed more than 15,000 talented people in large and small organizations throughout Tucson and southern Arizona in jobs ranging from administrative, clerical, accounting, sales and marketing, and information technology fields.
If an employer needs one employee or needs 100, a short term project or a full time position, the Temp Connection is there to help. Ellie helped me find my Executive Assistant last December when my long time assistant retired. She also helped our Rotary Board when Mary Laughbaum left our Executive Director position last year, running ads, screening candidates and assisting in the interview process. The Temp Connection has been recognized as one of the top women-owned companies in Tucson and you can count on getting top notch professional and friendly service.
Ellie is serving as our Club Secretary for a second year in a row, serving with first President Jim and now President Dave. She is a role model for new members, jumping right into things when she joined our club in June 2010. Ellie not only gives back to our community through Rotary, she is also involved in the Fox Tucson Theatre Foundation Board, Touch Point Connection, and is the Facilitator for the (WIT) Women Impacting Tucson networking group. She is recognized as a Woman of Influence by Inside Tucson Business. Ellie is married to Tom Patterson and they have three daughters between them and six grandchildren ranging from 11 months to 18 years old. So, the next time you’re talking to Ellie and you see her looking down at your shoes, you’ll know that she is evaluating whether you’ve taken time to shine your shoes!
President DAVE GALLAHER started the meeting one minute late, however the mystery editor’s link with Greenwich Median Time could have been off due to a bad Verizon connection. DAVE had a bad cold in introducing TED KIRACOFE’S Alma Mater, sounded like ka choo; could be translated to ASU? DARYL ROSS led the club in a rousing rendition of “My Country Tis of Thee”. However; there were several singers that were very badly off key at our table. BOB ERNSTEIN received a large ovation from the club, he will be helping sponsor HUGH THOMPSON in the “Ride for Polio” later in the year.
RICHARD BRATT introduced his good friend of 30 years and business partner PETER BEAHAN, what that really meant was that no good stories were going to be told to the club. RICHARD also seemed to get sidetracked on a fishing story involving President DAVE and MARK IRVIN.
PETER BEAHAN has been married for 34 years with 2 grown adult children. Outside of his CPA practice, he enjoys racing and fixing his Porsches, cycling and community work.
CONRAD PLIMPTON was introduced to the club; a graduate of Harvard and the University of Chicago, one undergraduate degree and several master’s degrees however, what was really surprising were the number of members of the club who professed to have the same Master of Astro Physics degree! I wonder if the Four Way Test was suspended in the space time continuum due to a high energy physics event??
KEITH COBB needs silent auction items for the Friday night before our car show. BOB SHAFF mentioned once again how easy it is to make internet sales, particularly the fact the tickets get filled out automatically.
MARY MARTIN introduced Marc Hammond our wildlife expert for a second time. Marc mentioned trapping (removing a pest) was much better on all involved as there would be significantly less collateral damage. If you missed this week and would like to hear the story about a dead skunk under a trailer in 3 Points at 7 pm, involving a dead flashlight, the skunk falling on his face and exploding anal scent glands, ask someone who attended.
President DAVE GALLAHER called the meeting to order and asked everyone to remember the victims and the families on the12th Anniversary of the attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon. CLEM LESLIE gave an inspiring invocation, and we observed a moment of silence to remember Kathleen Nelson, wife of past president Larry Nelson, as well as the victims of the attack on September 11, 2001. DARRELL STEWART gave us the history behind the song "America The Beautiful", and then led us in an early version of the song, accompanied by GARY GETHMANN on the piano.
CAM MOORE introduced our visitors. We celebrated birthdays for YVONNE ERVIN and new member NANCY PURDIN. JACK MAREK provided a humorous, if partially fictional, introduction of NANCY, who has traveled extensively, including approximately 20 trips to New Zealand. Welcome to the Club NANCY.
DOT KRET and several of the Tucson Classics Car Show team captains revved up the crowd to sign up for volunteer positions with a well written script and several cheers. Their enthusiasm will ensure that the Car Show will be a great success.
JEFF RONSTADT introduced our guest speaker, Barbara Eiswerth, Ph. D., who is the Executive Director of Iskashitaa Refugee Network. Barbara is a former Rotary Exchange Student, having spent a year in La Paz, Bolivia. Barbara explained how Rotary changed her life and made her the person she is today. Barbara founded Iskashitaa in 2003 to recruit refugee students to identify, harvest and redistribute produce in Tucson that was going to waste. Today, they harvest more than 100,000 pounds of locally grown fruits and vegetables that are distributed to refugee families and other organizations that assist families in need.
It was a somewhat solemn meeting this week as we remembered some past members and spouse who had passed and also paid respects to those who lost their lives 12 years ago on 9/11. We also toasted to those men and women who have given their lives in trying to make the world a safer place since then. It has been a long 12 years and the changes in our lives and our world are significant because of this tragedy. We continue to take a moment and reflect on the loss of life that day and the ensuing battle against terrorism.
We had a great program from Barbara Eiswerth and what a fantastic story about how Rotary Youth Exchange made such a difference in someone’s life and 20 years later have dedicated their life to serving our community. Barbara had a great story and I hope we see her again. I am sure we will. I love the Rotary Youth Exchange program and her story is repeated every year somewhere in the world.
Don’t forget this coming week we have a repeat performance from the Animal Expert. This was one of our most talked about programs back in July and we can expect more of the same. I won’t spoil any secrets for those who missed that meeting. This will be great!
Please don’t forget to sign up for the Membership Mixer on September 25 at the Stillwell House 5:30-8:30 p.m. We have heard from members that they want more fellowship opportunities and this one promises to be a good one. The food will be catered by El Charro and we will have wine and beer. Guests are $22 with no charge to members as this meeting serves as a replacement meeting. Let’s have some fun and for those who want to linger, let’s check out some of the new spots close-by for entertainment. Members and Guests can sign up until end of day on September 18th.
Marc Hammond is the co-owner of Animal Experts Wildlife Services in Tucson, AZ. His company provides the unique service of safely capturing and relocating wild animals such as bats, bears, javelinas, raccoons, rattlesnakes, skunks, and more. In addition to removing and transferring intrusive wildlife, Marc’s company also compassionately provides cremation and euthanasia services for beloved pets. Since 1993, Marc and Animal Experts have been educating thousands of students, law enforcement employees, utility workers, and postal carriers on dog-bite prevention. Additionally, Marc and his business partner Jeff were featured in fourteen episodes of National Geographic’s “Animal Extractors”. They have also appeared in documentaries and news excerpts with National Geographic Wild, Fox News, CNN, and Telemundo. Marc is regularly seen on local news channels with exciting stories about wild animals and advice for the viewers regarding snake-bite prevention and/or conservation issues in the Sonoran Desert.
JIM RONSTADT gave the invocation remembering his great grandfather's words to his grandfather about gratitude to America and freedoms enjoyed. STU GOLDMAN led us in the pledge and YVONNE ERVIN then led the song "This Land is Your Land" with the help of ELLIE PATTERSON on the piano. BOBBY LARSON introduced our guests and we celebrated ART ALLIS’ birthday.
CHARLOTTE HARRIS presented Paul Harris awards to SUSAN MOORE VAULT, ELLIE PATTERSON and Maggie-Rose Condit. BRUCE TUNZE introduced our newest member, RICHARD MUNDINGER to the Club. Welcome RICHARD!
Our speaker Guy Atchley celebrating 26 years in Tucson at KGUN 9, gave us a storied photo show entertaining us with his photos, after announcing Jennifer's departure to Tennessee (for better hours for caring for her children). He shared photos and stories about calamity prone dog Stanley the Chihuahua, his bad breaks and near death experiences. The Story of Stanley the Chihuahua can be found at:
Guy held us spellbound with photos and stories from his series: "Guy Atchley's Arizona". We saw his photos of Canyon de Chelly National Monument & Spider Rock, Antelope Canyon, Monument Valley, Horseshoe Bend in Page AZ, and El Grande Garage in Winslow AZ, the glass house inside El Grande of John Gross, and many, many more.
Guy's glorious photo finale was his Grandson: Run Payton run. Guy keeps his life in balance as a certified yoga instructor, teaching classes and workshops. Guy Atchley's 'good news' stories reflect the devotion to his community and to the human community. That makes him a great newsman and a close ally of Rotary. More photos can be found at: http://www.jrn.com/kgun9/galleries/Arizonas-Copper-Corridor-219327151.html
It is great to be back and we had a very nice program from Guy Atchley discussing his passion for photography. He is such a pleasure to talk with and our community is very lucky to have him the past 29 years. Our meeting included some fun stuff with our past President Arnie Jacobsen and the celebrating of 60 years of Lucky Wishbone history in Tucson. Thanks again to Arnie for his sponsorship and leadership in the development of our car show. As current President, I don’t know how he tackled President and Car Show Chair at the same time.
Congratulations to our newest Paul Harris Fellows as we continue to honor future generations of Rotarians. We are on a roll to hopefully win the contest with the Phoenix 100 Club for highest percentage of PHF memberships in the Club. This $1,000 bet also includes the largest annual giving to the Foundation, along with a contest that includes the growth/decline of membership during the current year. The winner gets to apply the $1000 to a community charity of their choice.
Finally, please begin registering for the Club Meeting/Mixer on September 25 to be held at the Stillwell House during the evening. The Stillwell House is a wonderful historical location downtown and the dinner will be catered by El Charro. There is no charge for members as the Mixer is our club meeting. A cost of $22 per guest is required. Registration is following the same concept on Clubrunner as used recently for the Sean Miller luncheon. Both Member and your guests must be registered. If you have difficulties, please contact the office.
Next week we will hear a fascinating story from a woman who is actively engaged in harvesting the many sources of locally grown but unused foods in our City to feed those in need. Barbara Eiswerth began her involvement in giving back to the community through her participation as a Rotary Youth Exchange student. Also, don’t forget to mark your calendar on September 18th as we will have another entertaining presentation from the animal expert.
Finally, to all of our club members of the Jewish faith, L’Shana Tova Tikatevu. May you be blessed with happiness this season and have a good year.
Have a great weekend and we will see you next week.
Last week, we talked about Orville Speedy McPherson's humble beginnings, high school in Yuma and illustrious University of Arizona career. This week we shall see what he did for the rest of his life.
Speedy graduated from Arizona with a B.S. in Commerce in 1917. His life's work became journalism. He worked at the Tucson Daily Citizen (our former afternoon daily) his senior year in college, then served in the Army in the first World War, fighting as an officer on three fronts in Europe. Resuming his journalism career in 1921, he worked first as an executive for Hearst Newspapers then worked as a consultant for failing papers. During his journalism days, he worked on the Los Angeles Examiner, Milwaukee Sentinel, Chicago Herald Examiner (as assistant publisher), and Detroit Times (Business Manager). From 1938-1943 he was Editor and Publisher of the Kansas City Journal. He then worked on papers in Southern California for five years before returning to Tucson in 1948. He also worked on Harry Truman's campaign for the Presidency. During all his moves, Orville remained an active Rotarian for almost 60 years.
In 1921, while Orville was Secretary of the Tucson Chamber of Commerce, he invited the heads of Kiwanis and Rotary to Tucson to discuss a charter. Strangely, they both arrived the same day and Orville had to run between two dining rooms to discuss the options available. Both offered charters to members of the old Tucson Luncheon Club. Fifty older members went to Kiwanis and fifty younger members showed interest in Rotary, which started with 25 members and 25 prospects. Rotary received its charter first and Orville became the Club Secretary (local architect Jack Lyman, president of the Lunch Club, became the first President of Rotary). The charter date was February 14, 1921, Valentine's Day and Arizona's ninth birthday.
Orville stayed busy during his years in Tucson. He had a permanent and long lasting impact on our community. In addition to those activities mentioned above, he was also part of the teams that created the Tucson Municipal Airport and the Veteran's Hospital. In 1976, the Tucson Chamber of Commerce named him Man of the Year.
The Rotary Club of Tucson's Orville McPherson Award is given yearly with member input, normally in late spring. Please pay attention to the hard working Rotarians who make our Club a most Remarkable Rotary Club and nominate one next spring for this prestigious award. Someone will win it. Will it be you?
The stage was set for a life in community service working and thinking globally way back in 1980 as Barbara ventured to La Paz, Bolivia as a Rotary Exchange Student. Dr. Barbara Eiswerth moved to Tucson in 1992 working as a research geologist specializing in GeoSpatial Information Technologies with the US Geological Survey. After ten years working extensively doing technology transfer in Latin America, she pursued a career as an environmental scientist working at the Office of Arid Lands, Arizona Remote Sensing Center with projects in East and West Africa.
Your President just returned from a week-long fishing trip in the middle of Colorado at 10000’. I have already heard what a great meeting it was this past week and what a superb job our future President performed in my absence. In fact, several people commented that Mary should assume her Presidential duties a little early! I think I got the message and of course, the joke. Thanks Mary. I owe you huge!
Sean Miller was a huge success. Many members have no idea how difficult it is to get our basketball coach or football coach to come speak at our meetings. For many years, it was a normal expectation and a treat, to have the coaches of football and basketball speak to us. This is true no more. Thanks go out to Bob Logan, Jim Ronstadt and Jeff Ronstadt for their efforts in getting Sean to visit us. A special RCOT thanks goes out to Coach Miller for spending some time with the largest Rotary Club in Tucson.
As an aside, people ask me “what does Rotary mean to me” and “why should I participate”? This past week’s fishing trip hits on several answers. I enjoy the fellowship opportunities and just spent the week with two of my closest pals who I have been able to get to know much better through Rotary. These two guys, Mark Irvin and Marshall Dennington are great friends. Another part of Rotary is looking at world issues that involve diseases and how do we help our neighbors and friends? Another person on the trip was Mark’s friend John Carlin. These fishing trips have been going on for about 15 years and I look forward every year to spending some quality time with John. John, 55 years old, was diagnosed with early stage Parkinson’s at 38. John is upfront about the issues he faces with the disease and has resolved to not let it get in the way of his life. While he shows up each year slightly “different”, he is a very motivational fellow to be around and puts any issues I have in my life in perspective very quickly. John spends a lot of time in creating awareness of the disease and promoting the need for research into a cure. Two years ago, John hiked Kilimanjaro with his wife and 9 other climbers who suffered from either Parkinson’s or MS. He made the summit with his wife by his side which was an incredible accomplishment and an emotional one. I hope we can convince him to come speak to us next Spring as he makes many presentations about Parkinson’s. It was a great week to sit around and talk about ways that Rotary may be able to help.
Last but not least, we will have a great program this week with Guy Atchley. I feel Fall is in the air!! The football season has begun and basketball is only 7 weeks away from starting. Yes, there are only 10 months to go until President Mary takes over!! Have a great weekend everyone.
President-elect MARY MARTIN filled in for President DAVE, who was gone fishing.
SUZANNE LAWDER gave the invocation, using fitting inspirational words from legendary coach John Wooden. STU GOLDMAN led the pledge, and YVONNE ERVIN led the singing of the National Anthem, with ELLIE PATTERSON on the piano.
DENNIS DRISCOLL introduced a horde of visiting Rotarians and guests, all of whom were there to hear UA basketball coach Sean Miller.
Birthday greetings were given to incoming District Governor SALLY MONTAGNE and to PHIL GUTT.
JENNIFER HOFFMAN and BILL ANASTOPOULOS ably handled the auction of several items. BILL MOORE reported our RCOT Facebook page has 500 "likes," and BOB SHAFF promoted the car show with a video featuring (past? Future?) pro basketball prospects JOHN HARLOW, PAT ZUMBUSCH and TED KIRACOFE.
BOB LOGAN introduced Sean Miller, providing a great collage of photos of an animated Coach Miller on the sidelines. Coach talked about some of his guiding principles for the team, such as telling them to "honor the process" and "grow out of yourself and into the team." He said the first principle means to focus on the part of the process the team is currently in, such as the pre-season, because you can only control the current moment. And he said the success of the team as a whole, rather than the individual, is what really matters. In most cases, it's team success that makes the top players attractive to the NBA.
Guy Atchley is approaching three decades as anchor of KGUN 9 News in Tucson. As you may know, Guy enjoys photography, and he is going to share pictures and stories from his series: "Guy Atchley's Arizona". All Arizonans, both old and new, will relish Guy's ability to see things in a different light.
Each year, we select one very deserving member of our Club for our highest award, the Orville McPherson Award, for all the special things they have done for our Club, our community, Rotary International and our world. Congratulations to Marianne Freitas, our most deserving 2013 recipient.
Did you ever stop to think about the name of this award? Who exactly was Orville McPherson and what bar did he have to clear to be memorialized in this way? In fact, he was a most amazing person and a leader in Tucson for many years. I am sure some of our Senior Actives (an old term for a Rotarian with more than 15 years of service) remember Orville who died while living near his daughter in Los Angeles on August 31, 1982 at age 89. Here is his story.
Orville Scharff (Speedy) McPherson was born in Pittsburgh in 1893. His family moved to Yuma in 1911, where he went to high school in the old Territorial Prison building. He was in the second high school class to graduate in Yuma County in 1913 and had 5 classmates. The new state of Arizona gave one scholarship to college in each county and Orville received it. He earned money working as a timekeeper and concession operator on the Yuma canal project to cover his portion of his University of Arizona education.
Speedy was well known in University of Arizona Athletics. He was the first 4 year letterman in football. He became President of the A Club (Letterman's Club). His coach was Pop McKale (for whom McKale Center is named) - he played on Pop's first football team. Pop was also a member of the Rotary Club of Tucson for many years. Speedy's team was the one that lost to Occidental 0-14 but newspaper reporter Bill Henry said, "they fought like Fighting Wildcats", and the U of A's Wildcat team name was born. In 1981, shortly before he died, he was named to the University of Arizona Sports Hall of Fame. Speedy was one of two players to make a presentation to the U of A President, suggesting that football should have a stadium. The result a few years later was Arizona Stadium. He was also one of the student leaders responsible for the big white-washed "A" on A Mountain (Sentinel Peak) which was constructed by popular demand of the students at a cost $397.00 in 1915 after beating coast champion Pamona. He was also one of the founders of the U of A Senior Honorary, "Bobcats". McPherson was also the Director of the Memorial Fund Campaign that eventually resulted in the big fountain west of Old Main.
Mack, as he was known then, was in the Arizona Class of 1917. He was so fast on the football field that he forever became known by his nickname, Speedy. Mack was a member of Sigma Alpha Epsilon (ƩAE), the largest Greek Letter social college fraternity in North America today. He was active in campus politics and served as Class Secretary in 1915-1916 and Acting Class President in 1916-1917. In his "spare" time, he was the business manager of the Arizona Wildcat Weekly which he helped start.
Next week, we will review how Speedy continued his lifelong passion for journalism and how he was instrumental in starting up The Rotary Club of Tucson.
Hikers of RCOT, the annual trip to Havasupai Canyon (part of the Grand Canyon) is back for this Fall. The dates for this hike are October 10-13, 2013. Chuck Flint, Mesa West Rotary Club, has been the leader of this hike and taken groups of Rotary Youth Exchange students to Havasupai for the past 17 years. Susan and I have done this trip with our RYE students over the past 7 years and it is a great experience at one of Arizona’s most treasured places. Chuck is the consummate planner and all fees and all meals (except for breakfast in Seligman) are included. The group meets in Prescott on Thursday for early dinner and continues on to historic Seligman, Arizona where we spend the night. Friday morning after a very early breakfast we make way to the trail head which is about a two hour drive. We hike (eleven miles) to the Havasu Falls campground where we have an area reserved for our group. Chuck is also the chef and our meals have been prepared and shipped down by helicopter. The food is simple but excellent. We spend two nights at the campground and hike out early Sunday morning. The trip down takes about four hours and the trip out takes about five hours. The trip cost is $290.00 and transportation from Mesa is available for $80. There are options available for horse in and out at the cost of $85 each way. Your fee of $290 provides for your bag to be carried down and out by horseback. You simply carry your water and snacks and personal items for the hike.
If you have ever given thought to visiting the great waterfalls of Havasu and Mooney, this is a great opportunity. You do not have to be a Rotarian to make this trip. Any non RYE student under 18 needs to be accompanied by an adult. Any child over the age of 7 is allowed to go.
Marshall Dennington and our RYE student Domenik will be making the trip with the Gallahers. For more information, please contact Dave Gallaher, 907-4983. Rich Flynn has also made this trip and can provide his feedback as to the experience of this trip.
2013 Havasupai Trip Sponsored by Chuck Flint/Rotary Club of Mesa West
Plated Salad ~ Fresh Green Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette and Ranch Dressings
Lime & Cilantro Chicken ~ served with Rice Pilaf and Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots, Assorted Rolls and Butter, Assorted Cookies served family style, Coffee, Decaf or Iced Tea Vegetarian option if reserved by Monday noon:
Vegetarian Strudel ~ Rolled and Baked Layer of Filo Dough with Grilled Vegetables and Ricotta Cheese, Served with Rice Pilaf
Fresh Fruit Plate if reserved by Monday noon.
Gluten Free meals available by advance reservation only.
We had a great crowd at this week’s meeting and had some fun with our good sport Mike Orcutt, for his great article on Angel Valley Funeral Home in the Green Valley News. We thank Mike and the rest of his STAR group for their great presentation to our new members. A big welcome also goes out to our newest members Gerry Snelling and Daryl Ross into the best Rotary Club in Tucson!
It was exciting to hear about all of the new positive developments going on downtown and the amount of private investment is kind of staggering. Hopefully Rio Nuevo plays a positive role in more developments in the downtown area. This past week’s speaker, Fletcher McCusker, who now sits on the Rio Nuevo board, has provided some badly needed leadership in turning Rio Nuevo around. Thanks also to member Mark Irvin for the countless hours of volunteering on this Board as well.
If you haven’t visited one of the many new eateries downtown you are missing out on some of Tucson’s finest new restaurants. They are excellent. Also, check out Second Saturdays celebrations. There is great entertainment and thank you to Fletcher for his early sponsorship of these regular events since their inception. Downtown is alive!
We will miss you this coming week as I will be fishing with fellow members Mark Irvin and Marshall Dennington. Your very capable and fantastic President Elect Mary Martin, will be filling in for me for one of the best meetings of the year with Sean Miller. Wear your colors of Red and Blue!!! We expect over 250 people.
Finally, please remember past District Governor Val Scanlan and her fight against her brain cancer. Val has served our District well and needs some financial help at this time as her insurance has been an issue since this personal battle began about six months ago. You can send a donation straight to Val at Valerie Scanlan, PO Box 12813, Tucson, AZ 85732. Send cards and notes as well. She could use the support from all of us.
Hiking has been a tradition within our club for at least 30 years. Long ago Rotary hikes were a warm up and prep for running on the Rotary marathon team. It’s still that, but much more. Hiking with fellow Rotarians is really an invitation to get to know one another better and to enjoy each other’s company at a relaxed pace. It’s also an opportunity to get outdoors to exercise those 26 bones and 19 muscles in each foot and the 4 bones and 13 muscles in each leg.
Rotary hiking has evolved to include both formal and informal hikes. Formal hikes are well planned and organized with a leader. We had terrific leadership from Tom Andrews this past March, who got 20 of us down and back out of the Grand Canyon after a year of several formal training hikes, all of which were fun. The Club’s hiking legacy has included hikes in the Catalinas, Santa Ritas, Rincons, Chiricahuas, and so on. What other city offers such a great variety of hiking experiences, from the desert to the pine country, so close to home? Everyone is encouraged to join us, including friends and family. Our objective has always been to increase our numbers.
Some members may hesitate, wondering if they are fit enough to hike with those of us who hike on a regular basis. The short answer is, yes, please join us! Neither age, size, nor speed should be factors. Fun, exercise, and camaraderie should! As the ‘Vice Mayor of Sabino’, Sid Hirsh says, “If I can do it, an octogenarian with a bad leg, anyone can do it.” And he is right. Several of us also hike on the weekends. I usually send an informal email notice weekly to anyone expressing an interest in hiking/walking on the weekend. There is no checking in or confirmation needed. “Those who show are those who go”, as we like to hit the road or trail at the announced time.
For the past couple years, Sid and I have walked Tumamoc Hill most every Saturday morning, then join the ‘Mayor of Sabino’, Kevin Wong and others on Sundays up the tram walk at Sabino Canyon. We will also occasionally take on more ambitious hikes like Blacketts Ridge, and we are always open to suggestions. Please consider joining us, or feel free to create your own intra-club hiking group. Email me at jheath9990@aol.com if you wish to be included on the weekly hiking notices.
As Sean Miller begins year five at the helm of the University of Arizona men’s basketball program, he does so knowing that his multifaceted approach to building a program has paid lasting dividends in Tucson. The facts certainly justify the assertion:
His 96 wins in his first four years are more than any UA coach and more than any other current Pac-12 coach in his first four seasons in the league. Arizona is averaging 24 wins per season under Miller, an improvement over the average of 20.0 victories per year in the four seasons before his arrival.
Plated Salad ~ Wedge Salad with Cucumbers, Carrots and Dried Tomatoes, with Blue Cheese and Balsamic Dressings.
Sonora Flank Steak ~ marinated in Honey, Balsamic Vinegar and Port, served with Sliced Seasoned Red Potatoes, Broccoli and Carrots, Assorted Rolls and Butter, Assorted Cookies served family style, Coffee, Decaf or Iced Tea. Vegetarian option if reserved by Monday noon:
Portabella Mushroom Napoleon ~ Layers of Grilled Vegetables and Grilled Portabella Mushroom, Roasted Corn, Spicy Salsa and finished with Fresh Herbs.
Fresh Fruit Plate if reserved by Monday noon.
Gluten Free meals available by advance reservation only.
Menu for August 28th at The DoubleTree - Ballroom - Eastside Entrance
President DAVE GALLAHER opened the meeting with some sad news, asking Rotarians to sign bulletins for JANIS COTTEN and KARL MEYER, who are ill, and for a moment of silence for DARREL STEWART, whose father passed away. We celebrated birthdays with SUZANNE LAWDER and MIKE SCHULTE, and DOT KRET gave a Happy Jackson to promote the Affordable Care Act Forum, featuring PETER BEAHAN, on August 28, right before our meeting with Sean Miller.
It’s always a pleasure to introduce a new member but this week we had two: TED FORSBERG presented GERRY SNELLING, and CHUCK SAWYER introduced us to DARYL ROSS. MARSHALL DENNINGTON and his wife Cathy brought German Rotary Exchange student, Domenik Dresp, who with some prompting claimed PRESIDENT DAVE is his favorite fishing guide. In honor of Building Freedom Day, MARCIA KRUMWIEDE asked for volunteers to help with Habitat for Humanity on September 11. BRUCE JACOBS made a call for items to include in the silent auction, held during the Friday night dinner before the car show, and recognized some generous Rotarians: CHRIS EDWARDS, GEORGE DARLING, PAT LENNAN and PRESIDENT DAVE. JOE NEVIN asked for support for a fundraiser for Past District Governor Val Scanlan, who is suffering from an inoperable brain tumor. MARK IRVIN introduced speaker Fletcher McCusker, chairman of the Rio Nuevo District and “one-man wrecking crew” in downtown Tucson, who told us about all of the great new restaurant and entertainment venues opening up there. Thanks to $209 million in private investment since 2008, Tucson is being called the next Austin, Texas. In a good way!
K.R. Ravindran was selected as the President of Rotary International on August 13, 2013 for the 2015-16 term. Mr. Ravindran is a native of Colombo, Sri Lanka. Colombo is the largest port city in the island republic. An industrialist, Mr. Ravindran is the CEO of Printcare, PLC, a tea packaging company. He has been a Rotarian since 1974. He is the first Sri Lankan to be President of Rotary International and the tenth Asian. He and his wife live in Kelaniya, Sri Lanka.
Mr. Ravindran's service in Rotary International includes stints as a Director and as Treasurer and as a Trustee for the Rotary Foundation. He has received the Rotary Foundation Citation for Meritorious Service.
Mr. Ravindran's contributions to the well-being of his fellow Sri Lankans are laudable. During the exhaustive and lengthy civil war that plagued his country's development, Mr. Ravindran stepped up and brokered a cease fire with northern militants so that Sri Lanka could participate in the National Immunization Days. Sri Lanka was the first Asian country to be declared Polio free. Mr. Ravindran was also instrumental in securing $2.5 million in Rotary funding to help eradicate Polio in his native country.
After a Tsunami devastated Sri Lanka a few years back, Mr. Ravindran chaired the Schools Awakening project in Sri Lanka. The purpose of the initiative is to rebuild schools leveled by the Tsunami. To date, 20 new high quality schools have been built. These schools currently benefit over 15,000 students. He also founded and is president of the Anti-Narcotics Association of Sri Lanka.
Mr. Ravindran has set as one of his primary goals during his pending Presidency of Rotary International, the recruitment of new members. He sees the expanded utilization of social media by Rotary clubs on the local, national, and international level as the key to member growth.
K.R. Ravindran named Rotary International President for 2015-16
Fletcher McCusker is going to discuss Rio Nuevo and what is going on downtown. This will include the settlement with the City, the plans for the TCC Arena, the announcement of the new AC Hotel downtown that the District is going to be doing and a slew of other positive notes in that area.
This week was another jam packed Rotary meeting with lots of activities. It’s always interesting to hear about our local military base, and Colonel Kevin Blanchard did a great job sharing personal stories about our military men and women who perform the difficult but necessary task of defending freedom and the sacrifices they make. The standing ovation at the end of our meeting said it all. Thank you to our base personnel and to Colonel Blanchard for his leadership and dedication.
Thank you also to our District Governor Nancy Cassel and her presentation of the ENERGIZER awards to two of our most dedicated and timeless volunteers Past Presidents Charlotte Harris and Bob Shaff. As I mentioned to Nancy we could have many more!!!
Speaking of ENERGIZERS, next week we will hear from our own member Mark Irvin, along with Fletcher McCusker, about the current state of Rio Nuevo. Mark has volunteered countless hours with Rio Nuevo to make a positive impact on Tucson’s future.
Have a wonderful week and pray for rain!!!! See you next Wednesday.
President DAVE GALLAHER opened the meeting and turned it over to JACK PARRIS for the invocation. ELLIE PATTERSON and LESLIE GALLOWAY teamed for the pledge and song, with ELLIE also accompanying on the piano.
BOB LOGAN and CHARLOTTE HARRIS made Paul Harris Fellow presentations to JOHN COUSINS and HOOT GIBSON.
Among the esteemed guests introduced by JEFF RONSTADT was District Governor NANCY CASSEL, who made a presentation later in the program to CHARLOTTE HARRIS and BOB SHAFF as the “Energizers” of the Rotary Club of Tucson.
Birthday wishes were given to JERRY SULLIVAN, owner of Sullivan’s Eatery and Creamery, who reported the flavor of the month is blueberry cheesecake; MARCIA GILL, who once again made a very generous birthday gift of 10 times her age ($770); HUGH THOMPSON, who persuasively exhorted us all to transform car show ticket sales into an invitation to our friends to join us in supporting three great causes (Reading Seed, Youth on Their Own, and the neonatal unit at St. Joseph’s Hospital); and SID HIRSH, who thanked all the Mystery Editors for the last year, offering them a gift of high-class shoe polish from his sole-saving store at 2934 E. Broadway.
MIKE ORCUTT announced a STAR training, and BOB SHAFF presented a car show video featuring BOBBY LARSON, produced with some professional help from RICK ROSE.
CLIFF BOWMAN then introduced our speaker, Col. Kevin Blanchard, Commander of the 355th Fighter Wing at Davis-Monthan AFB. Col. Blanchard provided profiles of some of the individuals under his command. During questions, he also addressed two effects of the sequester on his operations – fighter pilots returning from Afghanistan were grounded for an extended period due to lack of funding, and civilian employees were furloughed without pay for one day a week for five weeks. He also said how important community support of DM is to its continued existence.
Megan Herndon, our current exchange student, arrived in Rio Claro, Brazil on Wednesday, August 7th with her host family, the Mattos. Claudia Mattos stated that she is delighted with Megan's education, kindness and willingness to learn their language. Her daughter, Carol, 18 years of age, and vice president of Rotaract South Rio Claro, speaks fluent English and is teaching Megan how to speak Portuguese. Claudia's son, Gabriel, 5 years of age, is already speaking basic English words with Megan. These photos were taken at the monument of Rotary International, in Guarulhos, São Paulo, Brazil. Have fun Megan!
The Global Polio Eradication Initiative reports that as of August 7, 2013, 177 new cases of Wild Poliovirus have been reported. In 2012, for the same time frame, 94 cases has been reported. This year, cases in the so called endemic countries, Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Nigeria are down from 89 last year in the same time frame to 67.
Dr. Hugh Thompson points out that the political upheaval and revolution in Nigeria, one of the endemic countries, is partially to blame for the noticeable rise in reported cases. Refugees from Nigeria, one of the endemic countries, are emigrating to neighboring countries in massive numbers. 42 new cases have been reported in Nigeria. However, there are large areas where Polio health workers and statisticians cannot go. The largest number of reported new cases is in Somalia. One hundred new cases have been reported in Somalia this year. Ten cases have been reported in Kenya. Last year, Chad had five reported cases. Due to extensive vaccination efforts, Chad has reported no new cases.
Dr. Thompson also points out that we should be wary of statistics from all of these countries. His concern is shared by many. The reason for this concern is the presence of immunity gaps. Immunity gaps occur in regions of a country where Polio workers and statisticians are not allowed. In Pakistan, the Federally Administered Tribal Areas, are largely inaccessible to polio workers. Over half of the children in these areas are not vaccinated. Since travel between Pakistan and Afghanistan is common, it is feared that the disease may be spread across the border into Afghanistan. Afghanistan has reduced its reported new cases from 16 at this time last year to 3 for the same time frame this year.
Nigeria, Somalia, and Kenya are all countries in the Horn of Africa. Of the 177 new cases reported this year, 152 have been reported in these countries. 42 cases in Nigeria. 100 in Somalia. 10 in Kenya. Alarmed by the outbreak, Japan announced in the past few days an emergency contribution to the worldwide Polio Eradication effort. This contribution of $1.3 million is earmarked to help with mass vaccination efforts in the Horn of Africa, with particular emphasis on Somalia. Somalia has many areas that qualify as immunity gaps. Over one million children in Somalia have not been vaccinated.
In Kenya, the main focus of this heightened vaccination campaign will be the Dadaab refugee camp in Kenya. This is the world's largest refugee camp. Nine new cases of Polio have been reported in the camp this year. Unicef and the World Health Organization estimate that the emergency vaccination campaigns to be launched in the Horn of Africa this summer and fall could see over two million children vaccinated.
The main concern is the outbreak in Somalia. Obviously, if not contained, this outbreak could become a major setback in the worldwide effort to eradicate Polio from our planet.
Plated Salad ~ Garden Green Salad with Ranch and Rasberry Vinaigrette Dressings
Chicken Picatta ~ Chicken Breast served with Roasted Garlic and finished with Lemon Caper Butter, Whipped Yukon Gold Potatoes, Seasonal Vegetables, Assorted Rolls and Butter, Assorted Cookies served family style, Coffee, Decaf or Iced Tea Vegetarian option if reserved by Monday noon:
Vegetarian Strudel ~ Layers of Ricotta Cheese, Roasted Tomatoes, Grilled Vegetables and Fresh Basil Wrapped in Layers of Filo Dough and served with Beurre Blanc.
Fresh Fruit Plate if reserved by Monday noon.
Gluten Free meals available by advance reservation only.
It was a great meeting this past week and thanks to our Board and Dorinna for their help in making our Club Assembly a success. Thanks to all of our members who listened and completed the sign up cards for updating our committee lists. These assemblies are few and far between but provide us the opportunity to organize for the coming year and as you heard, we have a lot of great projects and lots of fellowship to look forward to in 2013/14. Speaking of Fellowship, please note that the September 25 meeting will be a meeting mixer at a yet determined spot. Information will be coming soon so mark your calendar.
This week we will hear from Davis Monthan’s base Commander, Colonel Kevin Blanchard. Colonel Blanchard will update us on current events and missions at Davis Monthan AFB. DM is so important to the local economy of Tucson and Pima County and in this world of change we should hope to continue the success of Davis Monthan.
COL Kevin E. Blanchard will discuss the various missions at D-M and our impact here in Tucson.
Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, one of the largest installations and flying operations in the United States Air Force, is home to 12th Air Force (AFSOUTH); the 355th Fighter Wing; 55th Electronic Combat Group; 563rd Rescue Group; the 309th Aerospace Maintenance and Regeneration Group, and several other tenant units. Nearly eleven thousand military members and civilians work on Davis-Monthan. Last year the base received the 2012 Commander in Chief’s Installation Excellence Award, which recognized D-M as number 1 out of 161 Air Force bases around the world.
Pres DAVE called the meeting to order right at noon. This was a real business meeting - no raffle and no fines (poor DOT KRET and MIKE ORCUTT were no doubt anxious to donate big bucks for that great article in last week's Star). SUSAN MOORE VAULT gave the invocation, LESLIE GALLOWAY led the song, and ELLIE PATTERSON was the piano accompanist. PP JIM RONSTADT introduced the visitors. The only birthday boy was PP DON SHROPSHIRE. DON has been a member of our Club for 46 years and a member of Rotary for over 50 years. He is one of the nicest people in the Club. Happy, Happy Birthday, DON. BOB SHAFF talked about Car Show Ticket sales. Then the board members Pres. DAVE, ELLIE PATTERSON, JENNIFER HOFFMAN, GARY HIRSCH, CLIFF BOWMAN, KEVIN WONG, TOM ANDREWS, DARRELL STEWART, MATT BLAIR, AND PP JON WANG for the out of town PHIL GUTT talked about the different committees. Committee involvement is an important part of membership. Pres DAVE adjourned the meeting with words of wisdom from William Jennings Bryan and Helen Keller.
Harrison Browning, founder and president of Arizona Gear and Manufacturing, came to Tucson from Coffeeville, Kansas in 1948. He had ranked first in his class at Massachusetts Institute of Technology in 1925. After moving to Tucson, Harrison Browning and Arizona Gear formed a business relationship with Hughes Aircraft. Mr. Browning developed a diaphragm controlled breather valve that was used on the Falcon Missile System. These valves allowed Hughes to switch from heavy metal to aluminum in the construction of the missile. This change translated into lower costs to the military and increased efficiency. Arizona Gear also had a business relationship with IBM.
Harrison Browning was a member of the Rotary Club of Tucson from 1956 until his untimely death in an airplane crash in 1984. His main civic efforts were directed to the Boy Scout program of the Rotary Club of Tucson. His interest in Rotary and Scouting influenced his son, Tom. Tom Browning graduated from the University of Arizona with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business and Public Administration. He joined the Rotary Club of Tucson in 1965. He was in the family business at this time and quickly became involved in the Rotary Boy Scout initiative. After his father's death, Tom became CEO of Arizona Gear. Tom sold Arizona Gear in 1993 and retired in 1995.
Tom's record of service in Rotary includes attending six Rotary International Conventions, serving as chairman of Boy Scout Troop, 229 (sponsored by the Rotary Club of Tucson) from 1972 through 1981, and Rotary District Secretary and Treasurer from 1971 through 1975. Tom also served on the Star Committee for four years and lists one of his favorite Rotary memories as the time he spent working with Mike Anderson on the Star Committee. Tom is now chairman of The Posse, a Rotary Committee that is called upon to do odd jobs such as counting Car Show ticket sales receipts in the last few hectic weeks before the show.
Tom has enjoyed hiking the canyons and mountains of the American West. Another favorite memory of Tom's is hiking the South Rim of the Grand Canyon to Phantom Ranch and back in one day with Sid Hirsh. He did this hike several times. His favorite local hike is the Phoneline Trail in Sabino Canyon. Tom also recently completed the Grand Canyon hike sponsored by our club in March of this year. Besides hiking, Tom plays golf, tennis, and swims. He and his wife, Wanda, live near Amado on their ranch. Tom has two grown children and five grandchildren.
Since December of 1965, when Tom Browning joined the Rotary Club of Tucson, he has a record of perfect attendance. His goal is to have at least 50 years of perfect attendance. He says the biggest change in the Rotary Club of Tucson since he joined in 1965 is the shift toward community service. Tom says the camaraderie among the members and the community service projects of the club have easily helped sustain his interest and enthusiasm over the years.
This week’s meeting will be a Club Assembly for the new Rotary year. This Club Assembly meeting will focus on our committees of the Club and will have presentations by each Director and a review of their committees and respective Chairs. This meeting will also highlight some of our goals for the coming year. We will outline the committees associated with the work of the membership for 2013/2014 that will help us complete this year’s fellowship and service.
At this meeting, we will have an opportunity to sign up for committees and we will learn about those committees that need some help and additional manpower. This will all be transferred to Clubrunner so that at any time, you can figure out what committee you signed up for and who is the Chair. That is our goal. Please help us get there by signing up for a committee at the Assembly.
Dominick Drespa, from Germany, arrived Thursday night and was met by his new host family, Cathy and Marshall Dennington. The RCOT is jointly hosting him with the Sunset Rotary Club and several members of the Sunset Club were there to greet him. Dominick is 17 years of age and will be attending Sahuaro High School. Please think about your friends and neighbors who might want to host Dominick later this fall and next spring. You do not have to be a member of Rotary to host a RYE student!
This is a remarkable program which will help Dominick have a great experience.
Wow, what a great meeting we had this week with Marc Hammond who owns Animal Experts. He certainly understands his animals and it’s hard not to catch some of his passion for the animals and critters. What would have happened if that snake had gotten loose???? I received many emails and phone messages regarding his program asking me “when can we get him back?” So, our Program Committee Chair, Bob Logan has him booked again for the September 18th meeting. You don’t want to miss this meeting! Marc will provide us another very entertaining program and has some more snakes up his sleeve!
This coming week will be our Club Assembly. Our Club Assemblies are a valuable opportunity to focus on Club activities and functions. This Assembly will focus on our committees and will provide an opportunity for membership to get signed up. Many of you have signed up, but many of you still have not. We would like to complete this process and so this meeting is important. Each member of our Board will make a short presentation about their committees and committee chairs. We have a few that need some help.
Have a great week and we look forward to seeing you on Wednesday.
President DAVE GALLAHER called the meeting to order right on time.
PAT ZUMBUSCH gave the invocation which included this quote by Mark Twain: “Heaven goes by favor; if it went by merit, you would stay out and your dog would go in”.
LESLIE GALLOWAY led us in a stirring rendition of “America the Beautiful”, accompanied by GARY GETHMANN on the piano.
Happy Birthday to ROBIN STODDARD.
CHARLOTTE HARRIS presented Paul Harris Fellowships to BOB, Sean and Tommy LOGAN. There was much discussion about ‘the school that shall remain nameless up north’ but it was decided in the end that all would be forgiven if Tommy would host our next home hospitality in Hawaii at his new job.
Congratulations to MARCIA KRUMWIEDE on her engagement, although she’ll have to get used to all that extra weight from that giant rock on her left hand. RALPH PHILLIPS and DAVID LOVITT were fined for their appearances in “Outside” and “Biz Tucson” magazines.
Belatedly, PETER AKMAJIAN introduced our guests and visiting Rotarians.
MIKE ORCUTT introduced new members ALLYN BULZOMI and BILL MOORE.
MARY MARTIN introduced Marc Hammond, owner of AZ Animal Experts Wildlife Services. It was a great presentation with valuable information on protecting yourself from coyotes and unleashed dogs. He also introduced us to Coral and King snakes, Gila Monsters and Colorado River Toads.
President DAVE concluded the meeting with more animal related quotes including this one from Joe Gores, “Old age means realizing you will never own all the dogs you wanted to”.
All Members and Guests must register for Coach Sean Miller's presentation to the Club on August 28, 2013. Please go to www.tucsonrotary.org and register under "Upcoming Events". There is separate registration for Members at no cost by clicking on Coach Sean Miller (RCOT Members Only). Guests must be registered by clicking on Coach Sean Miller (Guests/Visiting Rotarians). The cost for guests is $25.00.
Coach Sean Miller Presents August 28, 2013 - Please Register
Karachi, Pakistan is a city of 23.5 million citizens. It has a diverse citizenry. Taliban sympathizers, peaceful Muslims, Hindus, Christians, Jews, and Asians all live in a crowded and volatile political climate. When Pakistan achieved independence in 1947, it became a favorite immigration destination for Muslims in India. During the Afghan war with Russia, Pashtun Muslims flocked to Karachi. They are mostly Taliban sympathizers. A sea port on the Arabian Sea, Karachi is the main banking and commercial center in the country. Formerly, the capital of Pakistan, this title now belongs to Islamabad. Karachi is notable for its surrounding scenery. Just a few miles from some of the worst slums in the world , Cape Monze, on the edge of Karachi, features beautiful cliffs and beaches. Like Tucson, Karachi has a monsoon season beginning in June and ending in August. Over a hundred inches of rain falls during this three month period.
The Rotary Club of Karachi was founded in 1933. At present, it has 130 members. Projects include a literacy project, a public computer center, and an acclaimed artificial limb project. But the project with the most global impact is the Polio Eradication program that is coordinated with the World Health Organization. Two years ago, Pakistan's rival in everything from trade to soccer to politics, India, was declared Polio free. The World Health Organization hinted that it might issue travel warnings for Pakistan if efforts to eradicate the disease were not embraced and furthered by the government. In an effort to avoid the WHO's wrath and to catch up with India, the Pakistani Government got behind the Polio eradication effort, sort of. The government hired many vaccinators and paid them $2.50 a day. The wages for the volunteer vaccinators has now been raised to $5 a day. In addition, armed police sometimes accompany vaccinators as they go into particularly dangerous areas. Mobilizers were enlisted and sent out into the schools and mosques to counter the rumors that the polio vaccine contained pork, or HIV, or birth control hormones. Favorable fatwas were issued by some Mullahs. Unfortunately, there are some areas of the country that are simply not under government control. Three hundred thousand children cannot be reached for vaccination because the Government has no power in certain hostile regions.
At the forefront of this effort are the Rotary Clubs of Pakistan. Progress has been made. A few years ago, 39 sub strains of the Polio virus were present in Pakistan. Now, it would appear, there are only two. Rotary Pakistan has sponsored a new and successful tactic to reach children who live in areas too dangerous for vaccinators. Transit point vaccinating utilizes toll booths and military and local police checkpoints as bases. With the implicit approval of the military and local police, Rotarians and other volunteers vaccinate as many as 800 children a day at these checkpoints as refugees and travelers try to enter the city of Karachi.
Abdul Waheed Khan was a large, gregarious man who welcomed the Rotary into his school in Karachi. He was not a Rotarian but he was a member of a Rotary Auxiliary group and worked with Rotarians on a daily basis to advance vaccination efforts. His school admitted girls and instituted a liberal arts curriculum that did not include study of the Koran. These efforts angered the Taliban who issued a fatwa calling for his death. He was a vocal supporter of the Polio vaccination program and allowed his school to be the base for some of the vaccination efforts. In March of this year, he hosted Dr. Robert Scott of Canada, who is chairman of Rotary International's Polio committee. Together, they vaccinated children at his school.
After the death threats, the only security Mr. Khan could get was an informal bicycle escort as he rode through town. On May 13, Abdul Waheed Khan was killed by gunmen who also shot his one year old daughter. Fortunately, she survived.
Recently at the main train station, the Karachi Rotary Club set up a booth to meet new immigrants so they could vaccinate their children. Rotarian Muhammad Arshad helped meet the crowd. He stood out among the turbans and other traditional native dress. He was wearing a blue baseball cap with the bright yellow wheel of Rotary International prominently displayed. He looked for children leaving the train and convinced most of their parents to have them vaccinated. When asked by a reporter from the New York Times this month about his personal fear, he said, "This is good work and God will protect me." Even at the railroad station, friendly Pakistanis came up to the Rotary table and told the volunteers their lives were in danger and they should play it safe and quit. Mr. Arshad ignored them and worked on.
We had a fun meeting this past week and hats off to Melinda Burke (introduced by Scott Vaughn) from the UA Alumni Association who not only gave a great talk about the Association but also helped our Club raise over $1000 with her donated raffle items and an auction item for two football seats with the President of the University purchased by Pat Raskob. We made over $300 in the raffle.
Thank you to all who listened to my appeal to help the scholarship cups. We had $121.00 this past week. As I mentioned, our Club Foundation just awarded over $30,000 in scholarships to both UA and Pima College and every little bit on a weekly basis helps! Our Cup Committee needs some help too! I am asking for one or two people to help Paul Cinalli and Tom Browning collect those cups at the end of each meeting and it only takes about 10 minutes. Please see Dorinna or catch Tom or Paul.
Finally, we will have an interesting program about Animals this coming week. Everyone loves animals and most of our animal programs have been some of the best.
Remember to register for the upcoming August 28 meeting with Sean Miller. Guests are $25 and they must be registered on Clubrunner. Darrell Stewart will assist those members who need just a little bit of help in registering at next week’s meeting.
After opening the meeting, President DAVE called upon the last member to let you down, MIKE ORCUTT, to do the invocation. He was followed by LONNIE LISTER who led the pledge, and he was joined with LESLIE GALLOWAY for the singing of America the Beautiful.
Pres DAVE reminded everyone not to forget the Scholarship Cups. He also mentioned that PAUL CINALLI and TOM BROWNING need help picking them up at the end of the meeting. JEFF RONSTADT introduced the visitors. Birthdays were celebrated by GEORGE DARLING and CHRISTY VERTUCA.
Pres DAVE honored GEORGE for all the great publicity he gets as well as being one of DAVE's closest friends, and it only cost GEORGE $400. DAVE also honored CARMEN BERMUDEZ for a great article in Tucson Biz. CARMEN has done many things in her life one of which was a bull fighter in Mexico City. Amazing! JACK MAREK introduced our newest member, CHRISTY VERTUCA. JACK did a great job but then he had a great subject.
BOB LOGAN presented PAUL HARRIS Awards to Patrick Kass (JIM RONSTADT's son-in-law) and Meghan Gallaher, Pres DAVE'S daughter. BOB had a problem figuring out how long the Kasses have been married. Since it is over 10 years, we thought he was going to have to take off a shoe to finish the count, but he didn't. DAVE's angels, JENNIFER HOFFMAN, MARCIA KRUMWEIDE, and KEVIN WONG (Wong is an angel?) handed out the raffle prizes which were from our speaker, Melinda Burke, Executive Director of the U of A Alumni Association. She gave the Club the gift of watching a U of A football game with the president of U of A in the president’s box to be auctioned off. High bidder was PAT RASKOB. President DAVE ended with some toasts. A fun meeting today!
We had a great meeting last week with the kick off of the 2013 Tucson Classics Car Show by this year’s Chair, Chuck Sawyer, and a presentation by PowerPoint Past President, Bob Shaff. Ticket selling is easy! You just need to ask. This year’s show promises to be our best!
During our upcoming Club Assembly on August 7th, we will have an opportunity to sign up for a variety of committees of which one will be the car show. Please remember to sign up on August 7th.
We listened to the discussion about a different way of taxation, and I found the presentation interesting.
This week, we get to celebrate and learn a bit more about our own University of Arizona with a program by Melinda Burke, President and Executive Director of the University of Arizona Alumni Association.
Our President DAVE GALLAHER was introduced by JOE “VOICE” NEVIN. DAVE has been waiting for that introduction by JOE for a long time. On the invocation was BOB SHAFF. This was so appropriate for our group. He asked that we not bow our heads and look around the room to see all of our friends and the fellowship in the room. He said, “A great meal is one that is shared with friends and fellowship”.
BOB SHAFF kicked off the 2013 Tucson Classics Car Show with the “Find Your Groove!!” and the “$5 X 5 plan”, meaning $5 gets you five chances to win. The grand prize of a2004 Corvette Prize Car or $15,000 Cash and four other prices; a 42” LG Flat Screen TV, a 2-night Stay at George and Dawn Darling’s mountain cabin in Greer, a set of 4 Tires, or a Gift Certificate at Harlow Gardens. BOB declared the Tucson Classics Car Show…the “Best One Yet”!! He also declared tickets for the event will be easier that ever to sell with the “5 ways to sell tickets” plan. We should have no difficulty in reaching our goals this year. Just “Find Your Groove!!”
Our speaker addressed a topic that everyone has an opinion on “Taxes”. Dr. Wishnick is a published author of numerous articles and his most recent, a new book,” From a Culture of Dependency to a Culture of Success”. He presented our current progressive income tax and also presented two other types of tax systems. Attempts to improve the current tax system would most likely include the flat income tax or the third option would be the FairTax. Dr. Wishnick made each of us think and opened the discussion about our current tax systems.
In closing PRESIDENT DAVE offered a toast by quoting Will Rogers. “The only difference between death and taxes is that death doesn’t get worse every time Congress meets”, and “The income tax has made more liars out of the American people than Golf”. Both were on the mark!
The University of Arizona Alumni Association offers programming and services to engage over 250,000 alumni around the world. From international ambassadors who coordinate events outside the U.S., to a network of over 35 alumni chapters and clubs in the U.S., the Alumni Association is committed to connecting, engaging and nurturing Wildcats for life. In this presentation Burke will share the many tools and programs available to engage alumni.
The beach anywhere, a secluded cabin in Pine Top, long summer days, and a few hours to yourself, are all scenarios to read a great book. Not a good book. But a book that may change your perspective on life, or perhaps uplift your spirit, and heighten your understanding of the world we live in. These five books are all prize winners. That does not make them great. What makes them great are the authors' attention to detail, laborious research, and ability to turn insight into masterful phrases, sentences, and paragraphs.
1. “Bunker Hill”, by Nathaniel Philbrick, is a fast paced and incisive narrative of the pivotal battle between the militia of Massachusetts and the British Army at Bunker Hill. This is the way history should be written. Detailed portraits of British Generals Thomas Gage and William Howe are balanced with descriptions of Joseph Warren, a Boston doctor, who provided deft political leadership for the Colonists, Simon Poor, an African-American militiaman, and Paul Revere. This battle matched overconfident British Regulars with little or no combat experience against many Colonists who were veterans of the French and Indian War, History with excitement and impartiality.
2. “Passage to Power” by Robert Caro is the third installment of the acclaimed Lyndon Baines Johnson biography. Concentrating on the seven weeks following the assassination of President John Fitzgerald Kennedy, Caro tracks the feud between Robert Kennedy and Lyndon Johnson, the grief of the Kennedy Family, and shows where Johnson made his first misstep in Vietnam. It was to be followed by many more, of course; but Caro also shows how Johnson got the 1964 Civil Rights Bill through a Southern dominated Congress. Caro is not a cheerleader. He shows obvious affection for President Kennedy but observes that he was a President of style while Johnson was a President of results. Caro also documents the ruthless and boorish nature of Johnson. His treatment of Press Secretary Pierre Sallinger at the Johnson ranch was inexcusable and offensive. Caro pulls no punches, just the facts. You draw your own conclusions. The book ends with Johnson triumphant and a shoo-in for the 1964 election, but by ignoring President Kennedy's plan for Vietnam, headed down a path to ridicule, embarrassment, and ultimately shame.
3. Paul Theroux is in his early seventies. The great travel writer has always had an affection for Africa. He served in the Peace Corps in Malawi in the 60's when he was younger and a hopeless romantic. Years later, he went back and toured the east side of Africa from Cairo to Cape Town. “Dark Star Rising” was published in 2003 and chronicles this trip. The theme is Theroux's impatience and disgust with Africa's attempts at self-government.
His newest book, “Last Train to Zona Verde” is about his last trip to Africa. Zona Verde refers to the green area also called "the bush" in Africa. He starts in South Africa and is mildly pleased with the results of the South African people's attempt at government. From there he goes to Namibia, and is not so impressed. Freedom from colonization has brought few improvements and the country frustrates him in its failure to move forward. He then makes a tortuous journey to Angola and is instantly taken aback. While most of the people live in abject poverty, the governing faction makes millions from the fledgling oil industry.
Theroux always takes some good shots at some deserving people and in this book, he diverts most of his wrath to the Chinese who have come to Angola, loaned the government money, and then insisted on controlling the building projects that are earmarked by the loans. He sees them as practical, inhuman, masters of bribery, and totally uninvested in the fate of the Angolan people. Theroux is sometimes amusing, naïve, frustrating, or entertaining. A great book, but it has some dark passages that reflect Theroux's lifetime frustrations with Africa.
4. Billy Lynn's “Long Halftime Walk”, gravitates between the serious, acerbic, satiric, funny, and best, of all, highly relevant. Ben Fountain is the author of this highly acclaimed book of fiction. He has a great ear for dialogue. He lives in Dallas, Texas where the book is set. Billy Lynn is a 19 year old soldier who, along with 7 other soldiers, gained fame when they were involved in a three minute and forty seven second firefight in Iraq. Their exploits were captured by Fox News. Billy Lynn displayed quick thinking, was awarded the Silver Star for his bravery, and became an Internet hero. He and his fellow soldiers are sent back to the United States where they embark on a whirlwind public relations tour.
The book is set at a Dallas Cowboys game in old Texas Stadium. Rich Texans, film industry opportunists, Cowboy Cheerleaders, Peace advocates, football players, everyday fans, are all skewered by Fountains irreverent but insightful prose. Read this one for fun. Do not take it to Bookman's when you have finished because you will want to read it again.
5. Harper Lee, of Monroeville, Alabama, wrote one book. It was published in 1960, “To Kill a Mockingbird” and I first read it at Millsaps College in the Summer of 1963. Atticus Finch is the hero. He is a small town lawyer in Alabama and is asked to defend a black man accused of rape. He does so with dignity and professionalism - The consummate lawyer. He is also a single parent to two children. The story is told through the eyes of his pre-teenage daughter, Jenna Louise, who everyone calls Scout. Other characters are Boo Radley, Jem, Scout's brother, and Dill, a young boy visiting the small country town for the summer. Dill is widely thought to be a characterization of the young Truman Capote who was a lifelong friend of Harper Lee. A Pulitzer Prize winner, this may be the best American Novel ever written. Over 30 million people have read the book. In 2001, the Mayor of Chicago asked every citizen of the city to read one book that summer. The book - “To Kill a Mockingbird”. Racism, the loneliness and challenges of a single parent, the world through a child's eyes, what makes a good lawyer, and summer in the American South are themes developed and handled with exquisite subtlety by Miss Lee. If you have read it before, read it again. If you have children, have them read it - Literature at its finest. The book all writers wish they could write.
Member Sales for 2013 Tucson Classics Car Show Begins TODAY!!
Article posted by Bob Shaff, 2013 TCCS Ticket Sales Chair
Today we begin our member ticket sales campaign for the 2013 Tucson Classics Car Show…the “Best One Yet”!!
Each club member has been assigned to one of 10 Ticket Sales Teams. Glenn Ewing is leading our Member Sales effort, and is available to help your Team Captain, Co-Captains and our members. By now, you should have been contacted by your Team Captain and given a package of 50 Car Show tickets and a set of suggestions and tips for how best to sell these tickets.
This year, thanks to the generosity of our members, we offer 5 great raffle prizes,: the 2004 Corvette Prize Car or $15,000 Cash, a Tucson Appliance 42” LG Flat Screen TV, a 2-night stay at a George and Dawn Darling’s mountain cabin in Greer, a set of 4 Jack Furrier tires, and a Gift Certificate at Harlow Gardens. Thanks to these members, the chances of winning a Raffle Prize this year are 5 times greater because of these prizes.
There are 5 ways to sell tickets for this year’s Car Show:
· At Local Tucson Events
· Thru Non-Profit Organizations and Companies
· Online
· Personal sales to friends and associates
· Donating tickets to the charity of your choice
Led by Jerry Harris, we have already sold 5,000 tickets at local events like the Tucson Festival of Books and the SAHBA Spring Home Show, and expect to sell at least 2,000 more at upcoming events.
Led by Bobby Larson, we will again offer ticket selling opportunities to local Non-Profit Organizations, who will share the revenue from their ticket sales. We hope to sell 5,000 tickets thru Non-Profits and Companies.
Event Sales and Non-Profit Sales are great, but will account for only about one-half of our total ticket sales. For this year’s Car Show to be successful, we need every RCOT member to “Find Your Groove”, and to sell at least 50 tickets Online, through Personal Sales, or by Donating tickets to the charity of your choice. Every Club member has unique skills, aptitudes, interests, and available time. We are asking each member to use his/her unique abilities to sell tickets this year by “Finding Their Groove”.
If you felt a sense of pride when we announced this year’s beneficiaries: Reading Seed, Youth On Their Own, and St. Joseph’s Neo-Natal Unit…then you have a responsibility to help our Club’s Signature Fund-Raising Event by selling TCCS tickets to the best of your ability.
Connect with your Team Captain soon. Call on me, Jerry Harris, Bobby Larson, and Glenn Ewing for help, suggestions, and ideas for how YOU can contribute.
“Find Your Groove !!” $5 – 5 Great Prizes – 5 Ways to Sell Tickets !!
Member Sales for 2013 Tucson Classics Car Show Begins Today!
Trio Salad ~ Scoop of Egg Salad, Chicken Salad and Tuna Salad, Assorted Wheat and Pumpernickel Rolls and Butter, Assorted Cookies served family style, Coffee, Decaf or Iced Tea Vegetarian option if reserved by Monday noon:
Vegetarian Trio Salad ~ Scoop of Egg Salad, Black Bean with Corn Salad and Pasta Salad
Fresh Fruit Plate if reserved by Monday noon. Gluten Free meals available by advance reservation only.
The Rotary Club of Tucson's annual Tucson Classics Car Show has many elements but one of the critical ones is getting cars on the field. Without them we have no show. We promote heavily each year and hope to fill the field, which normally happens at the last minute, making planning a challenge. You can help us fill the 425 car field faster by recommending the show to anyone you see with a great looking older model car. It is very easy to register. On our Car Show website's Home Page there are two large buttons. One is to buy tickets to the show (you should already be sending everyone you know there) and the other is to Register a vehicle for the show. It only takes a few minutes online and is very inexpensive at $25 for the first car. The field is about 1/4 filled for 2013 which, while ahead of previous years, leaves plenty of room for your friends if they register early. We would love to set a record for earliest date the field has filled up, so please recommend registering now at: www.rotarytccs.com
The Fiscal cliff, sequester, the national debt, safety nets - a few of the hot issues being discussed by elected officials, lobbyists, and economists.
Does our federal tax system need to be changed or transformed?
During this presentation you will hear an objective review of the IRS and two competing tax proposals being promoted. The current system, our progressive income tax, will be reviewed. Its history will be summarized as well as its original purpose. Attempts to improve the current tax system will be highlighted.The second tax system, the flat income tax, will be briefly discussed. Various flat income tax initiatives will be offered. Components of the flat income tax will be presented.
We are off and running into our new Rotary year of 2013/14, and we have so many wonderful things happening this coming year. Thank you for listening this past week and thank you to all of our membership who do so much for the Club. I wanted to talk more about the RI Convention and will add some more stories later as there is so much that happens at the Convention. I would encourage everyone to go to the Rotary International website where you can look at most, if not all, of the plenary sessions (main events in the convention center). They are worth watching and you can experience some of the moments. Our new RI President, Rob Burton from Norman, OK is an amazing orator and down to earth and gave a great closing session speech. The War Soldier presentation was another moving story about a young man who became a soldier in Sudan at age 8 after his parents were killed. He would eventually lay down his guns and be smuggled out of Sudan into Canada by an angel. He is now a soldier for peace. Check it out.
This week we will kick off our signature fund raising event, The Tucson Classics Car Show. We all received our tickets this past week and if you missed the meeting please make an attempt to collect your tickets from your Team Captain. They are easy to sell! All you have to do is ask. The car this year is the best one ever!
Our program this week will be Yale Wishnick, speaking about the Fair Tax For All initiative and it should be interesting.
In closing, we were saddened to learn about longtime member Stubb Ashcraft’s grandson, Andrew Ashcraft (age 29) perishing in the Yarnell Fire with the Granite Mountain Hotshots. Andrew, like many of the deceased, was married and leaves behind a wife and four young children. RCOT will be making a contribution of $250 to a fund set up for the victim’s families. I have communicated with the President of the Prescott Rotary Club and we are waiting for their direction as to the best memorial fund for the sole purpose of financially assisting the families of the deceased. Stubb (Stubby) Ashcraft was a longtime 56 year active club member and a constant source of support for the RCOT. Stubb served as Club President 1972/1973.
Have a great rest of the week and we will see you Wednesday.
We recently discussed Rotary's Skiing Fellowship in the Tucsotarian and explained Fellowships in general, the ISFR (International Skiing Fellowship of Rotarians) specifically and the upcoming ski week at Winter Park in February, 2014. This week, let us take a look at what fellowships do in addition to the obvious function of providing a social interaction for Rotarians worldwide who have a common passion.
Rotary is a service organization and Fellowships often follow a service path as well. Our 2014 President Dave, has a passion for Fly Fishing and mistakenly thought the booth at the Lisboa International Convention labeled "Flying" was for him. Sadly President Dave, the International Fellowship of Flying Rotarians (IFFR) is for pilots, and they have a very important support mission. IFFR Members donate their time, funds and aircraft to supply the needy outlying areas around the world with medical, dental, optical and surgical aid in the form of material, equipment, tools, machinery, medicines time-critical fluids and transplant organs and tissue.
Similarly, ISFR members have a support mission as well, closely related to the Fellowship's main interest of skiing. Through its Davis Boyd Memorial Foundation, the ISFR raises money to support local adaptive ski programs and to provide scholarships for the training of adaptive ski instructors. In addition, members of the Skiing Fellowship often work directly with challenged skiers.
Adaptive Skiers are those who cannot ski like fully able-bodied skiers but have a desire to enjoy life and camaraderie in the great outdoors in winter. They may have a lifetime disability such as a missing or distorted limb or mental issue, a recent accident, illness or other life change such as blindness or may have been a wounded warrior. The adaptive ski programs at various resorts have expensive equipment and properly outfitted instructors to assist in helping these skiers learn to ski and/or become more proficient. Equipment may include bucket skis (for those with no legs), sit-skis or ropes and signs for blind skiers. Instructors need properly identifiable jackets and often signs to wear to explain their current purpose on the snow.
Some of the contributions have included $3,000 during the 1999 Whistler event for the Disabled Skiers' Association of BC, $2,500 donated to the Rotary Adaptive Ski Program at Sun Valley in 2003, the 2004 donation of $10,500 to the Telluride Adaptive Ski Program, almost $10,000 to the Fernie (Canada) Castle Mountain Adaptive Ski Program, $12, 734 to the Rotary Club of Steamboat Springs for a matching STARS program (Steamboat Training Adaptive Recreational Sports), $11,500 to The Rotary Club of Girdwood for Challenge Alaska, and $17,173 to Whistler in 2008. Similar contributions were made to Crested Butte (Summer and Winter Programs) in 2009, Park City 2010, Aspen 2011, Revelstoke (Canada) 2012 and Telluride 2013. In some cases, the donation has resulted in the startup of a local supporting organization. In most cases, about half the money raised was retained for a self-perpetuating fund in the foundation to provide matching grants and other additional future benefits.
Many of the recipients of this largesse have gone on to win medals at special competitive events. It is amazing to see them on the mountains, many times skiing better than those raising money on their behalf, but in a sit ski or a bucket ski.
The money is raised in various ways including a silent auction as each attendee brings something from their home area, competitive events including most recently a "Peak to Valley" challenge in which donations are solicited from others for a minimum number of feet of vertical skiing and the always popular auction of desserts made by local Rotarians at the Farewell Gala Dinner. Everyone gets dessert but some, especially the chocolate ones, are just more popular -- and more expensive -- than others.
No matter whether we are doing sea level skiing at Alyeska near Anchorage, skiing at 22 below zero in Aspen, trying to speak Canadian up north, skiing the high peaks of the Fourteeners in Colorado or the famous Champagne Powder of Utah, we always have a great time with fellow Rotarians from around the world. We hope you will join us at Winter Park in 2014. For more information, please go to: http://www.isfrski.org/
President DAVE, a Sun Devil, opened the meeting promptly at noon and called upon fellow Sun Devil, TED KIRACOFE to do the invocation. Then there was a moment of silence for the passing of former member Rabbi JOSEPH WEIZENBAUM who passed away on July 2nd. A moment of silence was also held for former member STUB ASHCRAFT'S grandson, Andrew Ashcraft, who was one of the firefighters killed in the Yarnell fire.
Wildcat LESLIE GALLOWAY led the song and the pledge. MARSHALL DENNINGTON introduced the visitors. Birthdays were celebrated by Dr. IMAN HAKIM, President Elect MARY MARTIN; and PP JIM RONSTADT.
MATT BLAIR introduced our newest member, MATT NANCE, who spoke a little Norwegian for us. Frankly it was Greek to me. President DAVE’s new Sergeant at Arms is JENNIFER HOFFMAN and she will be assisted by MARCIA KRUMWEIDE. DAVE'S ANGELS are taking the place of former Sergeant At Arms, the WONG man.
President DAVE introduced our exchange student, ERIC PENG who is returning to Taiwan. We wish you un buen viaje ERIC. President DAVE lauded MATT BLAIR and DARREL STEWART for producing a great COA party, reported on the International Convention, and listed his goals for the new ROTARY year. Cool!!
Rotary has almost 100 Fellowships for just about every interest, including one dedicated to Rotarians who like to snow ski. It is called the International Skiing Fellowship of Rotarians and meets at a different North American ski resort each year. There is also a chapter that meets in Europe each year. Both venues are open to any interested Rotarian.
Rotarians from around the world attend these gatherings each year and help raise funds for wounded warriors and other disabled athletes who want to ski. In addition to Americans, Members come from Canada, Russia, Japan, Great Britain, Suriname and other countries. The contingent from the Rotary Club of Tucson, along with their significant others, usually makes up the largest group from any Club, although the Coronado (San Diego) Rotary Club often makes an impressive appearance as well.
We usually have hotel choices in at least two price ranges and get excellent rates on multi-day lift tickets. In addition to skiing each day, we also join one or more local Rotary Clubs for their weekly meeting, attend Home Hospitality in a local member's home, have our own General Membership meeting and have additional activities each evening from sleigh rides to hockey games. There are also exciting daily activities each day for non-skiers. Some attendees make it a family outing.
The annual ski week is normally the first week in February. This year's event starts on Saturday, February 1, 2014, in Winter Park, Colorado. To learn more about the Fellowship and our yearly gatherings, go to this website: http://www.isfrski.org/
Active skiers in our Club are invited to join us in Winter Park this year. The signup period will open soon and can be done online. If you have questions, please let me know.
June and July in Tucson is a great time to think cooling thoughts of snow. See you on the slopes.
At the July 10th RCOT meeting, Eric Peng will say goodbye to the Club as he leaves for home. Eric arrived last September from Taipei, Taiwan a young 15 year old looking for adventure through Rotary Youth Exchange. Eric was hosted by Dave and Susan Gallaher, Sally and Ernie Montagne and Casas Adobes Rotary family of Julie Brinks. Eric recently returned from his east coast Rotary tour and a visit to Michigan with his current host family. Eric returns to Taiwan to attend middle school and college and he looks forward to a visit back to Tucson in the future once he completes his college studies. Eric, you will always have a home with the Tucson Rotary Club. Safe travels.
Rotary Club of Tucson RYE Student Eric Peng is leaving for Home
“Short Timer” PRESIDENT JIM LUBINSKI called the meeting to order. The club took a moment of silence in honor of the passing of TRISHA RAYMOND, wife of GIB RAYMOND, who passed on June 21, 2013, and for DORINNA’S mother who passed on June 23, 2013.
The invocation was done by PAULINE HECHLER wholedus in our prayer, followed by LESLIE GALLOWAY leadingus inthe pledge and song (great vocals as usual) accompanied on the piano by ELLEN, I HIT EVERY NOTE, WHEELER. The introduction of our guests was choreographed by ALLYN BULZOMI, the HR Director at Pima County.
Happy Birthdays were celebrated this week for GARY HIRSCH (June 6), LONNIE LISTER (June 24), MONTE CLAUSEN (June 29), and ERNIE (Bon Journo) MINCHELLA (June 29).
Outgoing Sergeant of Arms, KEVIN WONG, handled this week’s raffles, fines and announcements.
Our program this week was the introduction of the “FINAL FOUR” Applicant Presentations for the 2013 Community Grants:
Casa De Los Ninos
St. Joseph’s Hospital Neo-natal Intensive Care Unit
Youth On Their Own
YWCA
The presentations were awesome, and we wish they all could receive the top grant of $25,000.00. Fortunately, all applicants will receive at least $1,000.00.
Immediately following, the club voted on the winners, which will be notified by email later this week.
PRESIDENT JIM gave us a wrap up of the local and international contributions that our club was part of for the past year. $200,000.00 was contributed along with many thousand hours of volunteer work. Kudos Rotary Club of Tucson! PRESIDENT JIM closed the meeting with a quote from Michael Jordan and our ceremonial toast.
I am writing this in advance of the meeting as Susan and I will be in Portugal at our first Rotary International Convention. We are looking forward to meeting other Rotarians from around the world, and know that it will be a life changing experience. The past year as President Elect has flown by and the excitement of being President of this tremendous group is overwhelming. Two years of President Elect Training (PETS), and other special classes have helped prepare me for the job of President; however, there is nothing like the real thing. We have such a great system of succession in place in our Club. Thank you to all former Presidents for their advice and counsel the past few months, especially to outgoing President Jim and Past President, Scott Vaughn and my mentor, Past President Joni. Jim has had a great year and has accomplished many things. All of our Presidents are tough acts to follow, and Jim has set yet another bar. Our Club is a successful work in progress with lots of tremendous activities that we can be very proud of; particularly, this past year’s Tucson Classics Car Show. We are fortunate, also, as we have a terrific Board this year. Both Phil Gutt and Ellie Patterson return as Treasurer and Secretary, and Jennifer Hoffman will be our Sergeant of Arms.
The Final Four Applicants for the 2013 Community Grants will each present a summary of their 2013 Grant applications. The Club in attendance will then vote for the top two applications who will each receive up to $25,000 of the 2013 Classic Car Show receipts. The ability of the Club to offer two Grants of this size to directly help our Community is why we work so hard on the Car Show. A $25,000 Grant is a budget changing event for local Tucson Charities and your vote will decide to whom the Grants will be awarded. New in 2013 is that no presenter will go away empty handed in that the two lower vote getters will each receive $1,000 from the Club. The Final Four are: Casa De Los Ninos (focus: children in need), St Joseph's Hospital Neo-natal Unit Intensive Care (focus: children in need), Youth On Their Own (focus: children in need), YWCA (focus: work force development). Members must be present to vote.
As his term slowly comes to a close, PRESIDENT JIM LUBINSKI called one of his two last meetings to order. With words of inspiration, KEITH COBB ledus in our prayer, followed by PAT LENNAN leadingus inthe pledge and song minus our piano player PAST PRESIDENT GARY GETHMANN. The introduction of our guests was handled magnificently by BILL MOORE. A Happy Birthday moment was spent with each of this week’s celebrants, JIM STUDWELL,GORDON GRAHAM, and CHERYL HOUSE.
Handling the introduction of our newest member, TED FORSBERG extolled the virtues of our newest member DALE “CAPTAIN" IRELAND of FASTPARK. Next up on the agenda was KEVIN WONG with this week’s raffles, fines and announcements. First up was JOHN LEWIS with a welcome back to the work force fine after only 1 year into retirement. Next on the hit list was TERESA LIVERZANI-BAKER of “YOUTH ON THEIR OWN" and a SID HIRSCH SALES PITCH to help fill back packs for the kids and to vote for her organization at next week's meeting. Our next announcement was from Scoutmaster Jonathan Lang and was actually a Thank You for the club’s 20 years of support for Troop 339. Back over to PRESIDENT JIM with a reminder to register on Club Runner for the Change of Administration Party on JULY 6th at the Skyline Country Club.
Last but most importantly not least was the introduction of our Award Recipients; MARGARET HIGGINS gave us an introduction into the 2 Awards our club bestows on both an honored member of our community as well as an honored member of our own club. This year’s 4 Way Test Award was lacking a recipient as the slate of candidates was not strong enough to meet the criteria. ARNIE JACOBSEN introduced the coveted ORVILLE MCPHEARSONAWARD and presented it to a truly deserving member by saying she was a NO NONSENSE GET THE JOB DONE TYPE OF PERSON, PAST PRESIDENT MARIANNE FREITAS.
Moving on with our program, PRESIDENT JIM introduced our introducer MARY MARTIN whopresented our speaker Roberto Villasenor, Chief of Police, of the Tucson Police Department. Chief Villasenor gave us an update on the Tucson Police Department and the Crime picture of Tucson. He explained the comparison of Tucson and the national average to cities our size and how the reduction in staffing has led to a different approach to tackling crime in our city.
Bringing the meeting full circle PRESIDENT JIM, closed the meeting with a quote from John F. Kennedy and our ceremonial toast.
Where did the year go? Hard to believe that it was a year ago that I was preparing for my first meeting and now I am preparing for my last. First, it has been an honor to have served as club president. The experience, while challenging at times, has been rewarding. I am proud of what our club stands for and for what we have accomplished this past year. None of this would have been possible without the support and assistance of our board of directors, all of our committee chairs, every member who participated in all of our various projects and of course, Dorinna and Arla in the office. Following is a summary of this past year.
We began the year with 228 members. This number reflects a continuation of a pattern we have seen over the last several years where membership continues to be a challenge. During this year we will have initiated 23 new members. An outstanding effort but, through attrition and a host of other reasons, we lost 26 members. Historically it appears that we lose about 10% of our members each year. Accordingly, we must continue to make membership growth a top priority. One of the ways we have attempted to meet this challenge was to form a membership review committee under the guidance of Gary Hirsch. This committee has been tasked with reviewing our entire membership process and improving it where necessary. Some of the accomplishments this past year include; an improved STAR program, improvements to our mentorship program, streamlining the new member onboarding process, refinement of our guest process and relooking at the corporate membership program. While much has been accomplished in these areas, much still needs to be done. Most of these projects will continue on into the coming year. I believe in order to restore our club’s membership to historical levels; every member needs to play a part by being fully engaged in the entire membership process. We cannot expect others to carry the ball for us.
Shortly after the year began, our Executive Director, Mary Laughbaum, left to pursue a career with The Red Cross of Southern Arizona. The club was without an executive director for approximately 2 months while we conducted a search for Mary’s replacement. During this time, Arla really stepped up and worked full time in the office and kept all of the administrative functions humming along. She had a lot of help from club Treasurer Phil Gutt, thanks Arla and Phil. In November, we hired Dorinna York as our new Executive Director. Thank you to Ellie Patterson for all of the help and direction she and her staff provided during the search. Dorinna has turned out to be a great addition to our team and we are pleased to have her on board.
Steak & Herb Salad ~ with Wild Greens, Cucumbers, Tomatoes, Carrots and Croutons. Topped with marinated Flank Steak, Ranch and Raspberry Vinaigrette Dressings, Assorted Rolls and Butter, Assorted Cookies served family style, Coffee, Decaf or Iced Tea
Vegetarian option if reserved by Monday noon:
Vegetarian Salad ~ Wild Greens, Cucumbers, Tomatoes, Carrots and Croutons, Ranch and Raspberry Vinaigrette Dressings
Fresh Fruit Plate if reserved by Monday noon. Gluten Free meals available by advance reservation only.
Police Chief Roberto A. Villaseñor was born and raised in Tucson, Arizona. In October 1980 he joined the Tucson Police Department, holding many different assignments and working his way up the ranks until being appointed Chief of Police in May 2009. He is an undergraduate of Park University and holds a Masters Degree from Northern Arizona University. In addition he graduated from the FBI National Academy in Quantico, VA, the Senior Management Institute for Police and the FBI National Executives Institute. He is a member of the Major Cities Chiefs organization, the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP), the FBI Law Enforcement Executive Development Association (LEEDA), Arizona Association of Chiefs of Police (AACOP), a board member of the Police Executive Research Forum (PERF) and the chairperson of the Technology Committee within the Major Cities Chiefs Organization.
Chief Villaseñor oversees the second largest police department in the State of Arizona with nearly 1,300 members. Located just 50 miles north of the Mexico Border, Tucson deals daily with the political, criminal, and sociological issues that affect the Southwest border. The Tucson Police Department has maintained national accreditation since 2001 with the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA). TPD has also been recognized nationally as a leader in innovative law enforcement technology and community policing.
We are quickly approaching the end of another Rotary year. As is our tradition, we will celebrate the changing of the guard on July 6th at Skyline country club. I hope we will have a great turnout to welcome in your new club leadership team for the coming year. Please sign-up through ClubRunner as soon as possible so we can plan accordingly. It should be a great party!
In our next bulletin, the final one of this Rotary year, I will provide a summary of our year and will do a brief presentation of the same at our meeting on 6/26.
This week we will hear from Chief of Police, Roberto Villasenor as he discusses the “Crime Picture in Tucson”. I am sure Chief Villasenor will be addressing the challenges within his department from both a budgetary prospective as well as a community needs prospective. We will try to leave plenty of time for questions as I am sure our membership will have many.
We will also hear from Jonathan Lang on our Boy Scout Troop #339. With all that has been in the news about the changes and challenges for the Boy Scouts, it will be good to hear directly from Jonathan.
Have a great week, stay cool and see you Wednesday!
As he winds down his tenure, PRESIDENT JIM LUBINSKI called the meeting to order.
Inspiring us with words of inspiration was CLEM LESLIE, followed by a moment of silence to remember MARCIA PIERCE wife of former member GARD PIERCE. Leadingus inthe pledge and song was LESLIE GALLOWAY.
Filling in for an absent JEFF RONSTADT, the introduction of our guests and visitors was handled magnificently by KEITH WEIGAND.
Next to Honor our newest PAUL HARRIS Fellow’s and Fella’s, the ever bubbly BOB LOGAN and filling in for his sidekick CHARLOTTE HARRIS was the always lovely MARIANNE FREITAS. This month’s honorees were GARY” I can’t read my raffle ticket” SCHEER, his own daughter STACIA DECKER and daughter in law of IRENE DECKER, thehusband and wife combo of JERI and ROGER HARWELL and 7 TIME PAUL HARRIS FELLOW BEN BURNSIDE.
A Happy Birthday moment was spent with each of this week’s celebrants, PAT ZUMBUSCH,FRANK ZUNO, KEITH COBB and KEITH WEIGAND.
Handling the introduction of our newest member, GORDAN SHAW sang the virtues of LONNIE LISTER of the Skyline Country Club. Next up on the agenda was KEVIN WONG with this week’s raffles, fines and announcements. First up was PRESIDENT JIM to remind us to register on Clubrunner for the upcoming Change of Administration Party on the 6th of July at the Skyline Country Club. Immediately following was PAST PRESIDENT BOB SHAFF to introduce KIM MCDOWELL, our newest addition to the Car Show. KIM will be handling the ticket administration for the club. Back over to PRESIDENT JIM and a lead in to next weeks program, the 2013 Final Four Community Grants presenters. PRESIDENT JIM proclaimed that due to his tight reign on his discretionary budget no one would go home empty handed!
Getting our program under way, PRESIDENT JIM introduced our introducer PRESIDENT ELECTDAVE GALLAHER whopresented our speaker JOE PREWITT of the Phoenix 100 Rotary Club and the Chair of the Rotary 100 Centennial. Joe gave us a brief history of the start of Rotary in Arizona, the reason why his club is the Phoenix 100 Club and a run down on his club’s planned celebration.
Bringing the meeting full circle PRESIDENT JIM, closed the meeting with a quote from Muhammad Ali and a SID HIRSCH plug for the new Bookman’s Sporting Goods.
After the historic fund raising effort at the 1988 Rotary International Convention in Philadelphia, the next step was the actual administration of the Polio Plus eradication effort. After James Bomar's experience in dealing with the Marcos regime in the Philippines, it was apparent that the effort had to be a world wide effort and not an American effort. The main facilitator was the World Health Organization. By launching the Global Polio Eradication Initiative, WHO was able to draw upon global political alliances and past experiences in regions that were not as friendly to the United States and Rotary International as was necessary to get the job done.
National Immunization Days were launched by the WHO. Part of Rotary International's role was to have Rotarians in the participating countries participate in media campaigns to show their countrymen the advantages of the program. The results were astounding. Every mother, every child, and every schoolteacher was urged to have every child under the age of five available for vaccination. These days of saturation were helped by leaflets dropped by helicopter in remote areas of Turkey and other countries, imams using the Koran to reference families in the religious propriety of participating in Indonesia, and in Sudan, volunteers went from village to village performing informational skits promoting the vaccinations.
Truce days called Days of Tranquility were observed in some war torn countries. The Democratic Republic of the Congo was in the throes of a decades long war. Guns were put aside and on National Immunization Day, 250,000 volunteers vaccinated over 8.8 million children. The Shining Path in Peru lay down their weapons for a day. Rotarians worked at 2,300 vaccination stations, made lunches for the workers, and donated 800 vehicles to assist in the effort. 600,000 children in Sri Lanka, 5.4 million in Sudan, and 5.7 million in Afghanistan were vaccinated in National Immunization Days. After the initial vaccinations, two further steps were needed. The first was the surveillance by the national health authorities in each country to check for new outbreaks and isolated new cases. Only when a country has no new cases of polio for three consecutive years can it be certified as Polio free. The last step was called the mop up phase. In this phase the emphasis was on finding any areas that had been missed or overlooked during the NID. Also essential to the task was the establishing of new laboratories in countries in order to insure proper surveillance of the disease in each country.
Early success of the program resulted in the entire Western Hemisphere being declared Polio free in 1994. In 2000 China and the entire Western Pacific Region was declared Polio Free. Europe, including nations in the old Soviet Bloc, was Polio free by 2002. The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation gave two grants totaling $350 million to the present effort. The world is now 99% Polio Free.
There are only three countries with active Polio cases. They are Afghanistan, Nigeria, and Pakistan. Dr. Hugh Thompson observed that all three countries suffer from extreme poverty, war, and lack of education. He warns of the danger of complacency. Until there are no recorded cases of Polio in the world for a period of one year, the danger of new epidemics is still with us. Dr. Thompson is also quick to point out that the disease, spread by a virus, could easily contaminate the United States if one person travelling to our country carried the virus.
The challenge is more daunting in the last three countries because of the danger presented to polio volunteers. In Afghanistan, it appeared the progress made was encouraging. In 2010, Afghanistan only reported 25 new cases. That figure has risen to 76 in 2012. A WHO doctor and one of his assistants were killed in Afghanistan in 2012 while involved with the Polio Eradication Initiative of the WHO. Last month, Polio Eradication efforts were suspended in Pakistan after a female volunteer was killed. The Taliban teach their converts that the Polio eradication programs are a western plot to sterilize Muslim children. In Nigeria, in 2012, eight volunteers were killed. In Pakistan, 12 volunteers died at the hands of assassins.
The next and perhaps most challenging task in eliminating Polio in the last three countries is taking the vaccination of children to prevent a crippling disease out of the political arena. One drawback is that each of these countries has a poor health care infrastructure to help change the public perception of the Polio Eradication effort. This last hill will be the toughest to climb. Time, persistence, ample funding, the strength of our convictions, and world wide acceptance and respect for our efforts are our building blocks for an eventual triumph.
Rotary in Arizona will turn 100 next March. The Phoenix Rotary 100 Club was the first club chartered in Arizona and the 100th club chartered in Rotary. They are also our parent club. This Wednesday we will host a delegation from this club including the club’s current president, the president-elect, their centennial chair and their executive director. They will present a history of Rotary in Arizona as well as discuss their centennial 1,000,000 meals project. Our club’s board of directors has agreed to work with Phoenix Rotary 100 and take the lead on this project in southern Arizona. We hope to enlist our members and other Rotarians throughout southern Arizona to help reach the million meal goal. You will hear some of the details on Wednesday and more in the coming months as president-elect Dave unveils our club’s plan to assist.
We will also be officially kicking off our new annual club competition with our Phoenix parent. Each year we will be judged on three criteria: best performance in membership growth and retention, average per capita giving to RI and highest percentage of Paul Harris Fellows to total membership. The winner will be announced each June or July and will receive the traveling trophy along with $1,000 from the losing club to be applied to the charity/project of their choice. Now we can prove we are the best club in Arizona! And by the way, great job on supporting the Rotary Foundation this year. It appears we will meet the goals I set at the beginning of last year.
Please support the Ben’s Bells project on June 22nd. Marcia Krumwiede and John Harlow are coordinating this effort. Let’s show strong Rotary support for this worthwhile project.
The Phoenix Rotary 100 was chartered on March 1, 1914 by the International Association of Rotary Clubs in Chicago. The program, today, will discuss some of the historical highlights of the founding of the club and share some of the upcoming plans and activities that are part of the 100th Year of Rotary in Arizona. More importantly, you will see how you can help be a part of this historic year.
Bio of Joe Prewitt
Joe is a Graduate of the University of Georgia, ABJ in Journalism. He calls himself a “fat salesman”. He has spent the past 38 years selling frying oil to restaurants. He has represented companies like Procter & Gamble, Bunge Foods, and now Restaurant Technologies. He has been fortunate to do business with Restaurant firms like McDonald’s, Marriott, Chili’s and many others.
Joe has been married to Lynda for 40 years and has one daughter, Kathryn.
Joe is a 5th Generation Arizonan and a 3rd Generation member of Phoenix Rotary 100. Joe joined Rotary in 1997. He is a Paul Harris Fellow, Centurion, and a Board Member of the Phoenix Rotary 100. He has also served on the district 5490 RYLA committee as well as numerous other assignments and committees over the past few years.
Joe is proud of his Arizona heritage and his family’s association with Rotary in Arizona.
Polio was first called infantile paralysis. It was first thought to be caused by bacteria. In the late 19th centuries, epidemics spread from Europe to the United States. By 1916, when a polio epidemic struck New York City, the child crippling disease had become a dreaded worldwide scourge. The New York City epidemic spread nationwide and 27,000 children were estimated to have been infected. 7,000 children were killed in this one epidemic. Rotary began to help in the efforts to help the children crippled by this disease early on. The first efforts from Rotary and the scientific community emphasized the aftereffects of Polio. The cause of the disease confounded scientists for almost a century.
The first scientific breakthrough occurred when scientists agreed the Poliomyelitis was a virus and not a bacterium. Scientists discovered that the virus enters the mouth, multiplies in the throat and intestines, and then attacks the spinal cord nerves. This causes a flow of impulses from the brain to the spine to be interrupted. The result was the eventual shriveling and death of key muscle fibers.
Almost a decade after the death of Franklin Delano Roosevelt from Polio, the United States Public Health Service licensed the first polio vaccine developed by Dr. Jonas Salk. Dr. Salk developed a killed virus vaccine that was injectable. An additional vaccine consisting of a live attenuated virus was developed by Dr. Albert Sabin in 1960. The Sabin vaccine is oral. Dr. Sabin lived in Cincinnati, Ohio and was an Honorary Rotarian.
The first international breakthrough occurred in 1960 when 77 million patients in Russia were immunized. Shortly thereafter, 23 million people also were immunized in Europe. Soon Polio was eliminated in almost all industrialized countries. The underdeveloped countries remained the biggest challenge.
Using a Health, Hunger, and Humanity Grant, in 1978, Rotary International asked the World Health Organization for approval to start massive immunization projects. WHO suggested the Philippines as a starting point. Rotary approved a grant of $760,000 for the Philippines project in July of 1979. James L. Bomar of Shelbyville, Tennessee was president of Rotary International at the time and soon he was off to the Philippines. When he met with Head of State, Ferdinand Marcos, he was brushed off and told to go see Imelda Marcos who handled such affairs. After waiting for a long time, Bomar met Imelda Marcos. She soon flew into a rage and accused all Americans of being against the Marcos government. Soon she calmed down and Bomar received permission to distribute the vaccine. Bomar did not waste time. Once the permission was given, the vaccinations started immediately since many villages already had their children in lines to receive the vaccination while Bomar had been waiting for Imelda Marcos to receive him.
Efforts such as these fueled national and international interest in Polio prevention. In 1984, Dr. Carlos Canseco, of Monterey, Mexico was president of Rotary International. His efforts launched what we know now as Polio Plus. His sound scientific theory was that the goal in every country would be to vaccinate all children on the same day. Polio Plus was officially launched on February 23, 1985. It soon became apparent that the effort to fulfill this new commitment needed a huge infusion of cash. In the United States, fund raising began immediately. Rotary hired a professional fundraising company as consultants and set a goal of $120 million. On July 10, 1987 the Polio Plus Campaign was officially launched in New York City.
Between the July, 1987 date and the convening of the Rotary International Convention in Philadelphia in 1988, Rotarians conducted a tireless campaign to raise funds to empower and implement the new program. The world wide goal was $120 million. On May 24, in what has been characterized as Rotary's finest hour, the drama unfolded. Lights had been strung all around the Civic Center and each light represented 800,000 children that could be vaccinated. If all the lights were lit, a fireworks display would occur. Each country or region was called upon to report their contributions. Some countries stood alone as one unit, other countries were grouped together. There were a total of 44 committees consisting of countries all over the world. As the bulbs went off, the drama mounted. Last to report was committee number 44. The committee consisted of the United States, Bahamas, Bermuda, and Puerto Rico. This committee produced an astounding total of $119,186,189. This pushed the totals over the goals set. The final totals were over $219 million.
Money talks. After this total was raised, the World Health Organization changed its goal as to Polio from control to eradication.
NEXT WEEK- 1988 and Beyond- Polio Plus and the Final Battles
JACK PARRIS provided an exhilarating invocation about our flag. LESLIE GALLOWAY then led us in the Pledge of Allegiance and a rendition of “My Country Tis of Thee”. A moment of silence was observed for long term, past member Ron Janoff who recently passed away. Ron was a member from 1972 until 1998.
JEFF RONSTADT introduced visiting Rotarians and Guests. GARY STOE was wished a Happy Birthday. BRUCE RICHARDSON was introduced as a new member by fellow Rotarian CHARLOTTE HARRIS. TOM ANDREWS provide a slide show of the RCOT Grand Canyon Hike, CHARLOTTE HARRIS gave an update on the Internal Foundation and MARCIA KRUMWIEDE updated us on what Rotaract is doing.
DOT KRET introduced our program speaker, Laura Penny, Executive Director of the Women’s Foundation of Southern Arizona. Laura’s presentation titled “How Much is Enough? The AZ Self-Sufficiency Standard” provided interesting information on income needs for southern Arizona. It takes approximately $46,000 in annual income to survive in the Tucson area; that is an hourly pay rate of $20.00 which is far more than many Arizonians earn.
Are you confused as to what the Rotary Foundation is about? Do you know the difference between the Rotary Club of Tucson Foundation and the Rotary International Foundation? If you are like most members, you are probably a bit unclear on both of these topics. So, make sure you attend Wednesday as our foundation chair, Charlotte Harris gives a crash course in both. Charlotte will also let us know where we stand as a club in our year to date giving vs. the objectives set by the club and our district.
We will also be getting a debriefing from Tom Andrews on how our members survived the Grand Canyon hike earlier this spring. I understand there were a few challenges so Tom will be taking us through a pictorial view of their adventure. And, if this is not enough entertainment, Matt Blair will be presenting the first steps in our branding strategy.
As you can tell, even though we are nearing the end of our Rotary year, we have a lot going on. Our club is active 365 days a year including public works projects (did I forget to mention that Marcia Krumwiede will be talking about our upcoming project with Ben’s Bells?), social events and the ever present car show preparations. Many opportunities to get involved and a little something for everyone.
And to finish our meeting, Laura Penny, Executive Director of the Women’s Foundation of Southern Arizona will be presenting a program entitled, “How Much is Enough? The AZ Self-Sufficiency Standard”. You will need to be there to find out how much is enough?
BREVITY IS NOT RECOGNIZED AS A VIRTUE AT RCOT MEETING!
The trend was one of verbosity (verboseness?) at the May 29 Rotary Club of Tucson meeting. Something in the air, or perhaps the meal, encouraged those at the microphone to wax eloquent, or at least to wax a lot.
TED KIRACOFE, graduate of a large Tempe-based school, gave a none-too-brief invocation to get things started. Pledge and song leader ERNIE MINCHELLA followed Ted’s lead with a grainy and hard-to-hear video of the National Anthem as presented at the 1991 NHL All-Star Game (no kidding). It was as moving as it was lengthy.
JEFF RONSTADT defied the let’s-see-how-much-time-we-can-take trend by introducing all visitors and guests en masse. President JIM LUBINSKI was relieved to catch up a bit when JEFF didn’t name names. But, not so fast! The stride slowed to turtle-pace with the birthday Rotarians - JAN GREEN, PAT LENNAN, JOE NEVIN and SCOTT VAUGHAN. Only JOE was inclined to be brief and be seated. JAN spoke longer than your usual birthday celebrant; PAT topped his time; and SCOTT took the word-count prize (which President JIM blamed on Past President’s syndrome, which he swore he will not succumb to come June).
Perhaps due to the length of the meeting so far, Sergeant-At-Arms KEVIN WONG carried out an abbreviated raffle – one prize – and levied zero fines.
CINDY GODWIN did her best to leave time for our speaker as she reminded all in relatively quick fashion of the open nomination period for the Orville McPherson and 4-Way Test awards.
President JIM resumed the microphone admiration fest by giving a detailed summary of our recent club assembly. Of particular note is the reduction in RCOT committees from 53 to less than three dozen, via consolidation and utilization of ad-hoc task forces.
Not to be outdone in thoroughness, speaker-introducer BOB LOGAN told us plenty about our featured guest, University of Arizona Vice President for Athletics (aka Athletic Director) Greg Byrne. Since our AV performed as it always used to, Greg (former classmate of TED KIRACOFE) lead us in a rendition of “Bear Down.” He then covered many facets of his 2+ years at U of A, overseeing 450 student-athletes on 19 or 20 teams. For three out of three years, Arizona has taken the Territorial Cup, awarded to the annual overall victor in the UA vs ASU sports competitions. McKale Center is in for a $100,000,000 redo, to start fairly soon, and beer/wine will be available at the new north end football stadium improvement (according to the glossy brochure). Greg even bought a few car show tickets after seeing the Corvette parked out front.
Despite all the speeches, we adjourned pretty much on time! So, no worries!
Last spring, the Women’s Foundation of Southern Arizona published the Self-Sufficiency Standard for Arizona 2012, whichdescribes how much income families of various sizes and compositions need to make ends meet without public or private assistance in each county of Arizona. The Self-Sufficiency Standard is a measure of income adequacy that is based on the costs of the basic needs for working families: housing, child care, food, health care, transportation, and miscellaneous items as well as the cost of taxes and the impact of tax credits. For most workers throughout Arizona, the Self-Sufficiency Standard shows that earnings well above the official Federal Poverty Level are nevertheless far below what is needed to meet families’ basic needs.
Since its publication, the Standard has been used by non-profit organizations to help clients achieve economic self-sufficiency; business groups to better understand the challenges some of their employees face; and government entities to inform their thinking about low-income working families as they develop public policy to address this population.
Don Rollings succeeded Ace Bushnell as President of the Rotary Club of Tucson. Membership was at 300. Ace Bushnell had done a great job in Don's eyes and Don thought he would have a smooth year. He was excited by the past year's Rotary events. Polio Plus had been introduced the year before and Don thought this was to be his biggest emphasis during his year of office. Don took office in July of 1987. On May 4, 1987, the Duarte, California Rotary Club prevailed in a lawsuit that struck down the all-male membership policy. However, the Rotary International policy of all male membership still stood.
When Don attended the Rotary International Convention in Munich shortly after taking office, he was astounded at the hard-line resistance of some countries to changing the rules of Rotary International to allow women. Deeply troubled and puzzled by this attitude, Don returned to Tucson and consulted with the national organization and his board. He was told by Rotary International that the rules could not be changed as to the exclusion of women until the Legislative Council of Rotary International met. This was to occur in 1989.
Refusing to be stymied by this turn of events, Don met with his board and it was decided to amend the application process to conform with the Supreme Court ruling. The application process was amended to accept applications of qualified people without regard to sex, race, or ethnicity. Don did not want this issue brought out to public debate at the regular meeting venue. He feared that dissension and hard feelings could result from such a debate. After the application clause was amended, Don and the Board conducted an informal survey as to the membership's feelings. Postcards were sent out and asked to be returned with the opinion of the member to be recorded. Don and the Board were elated to find that the response was overwhelmingly in favor of the change in the application process.
The next step taken was to take in two women as Honorary Rotarians. Helen Middleton was the first honorary female member. She had been the Executive Secretary for our club for many years, and was a loyal and respected employee. Next was Rose Mofford. She was the Governor of the State of Arizona. She took office when Evan Meacham was impeached.
Don's goal was to clear the way for female membership when the Legislative Council of Rotary International met in 1989. The first female members were admitted into Rotary on a full scale basis in 1989 after the Legislative Council amended the Bylaws. By the end of 1990, there were over 20,000 women admitted into Rotary. Don does not remember who the first woman to be admitted into the Rotary Club of Tucson was, but he does remember there being a dispute among several of the men as to who sponsored the first woman.
Don credits Billy Joe Varney for aggressively recruiting and sponsoring many of the first women to join our club. Varney was a large, gregarious, Past District Governor who was a native Oklahoman. He was a top administrator at the University of Arizona.
After serving as President, Don has stayed active in Rotary. One of his fondest memories is heading up a Rotary sponsored Group Study Exchange that went to Argentina. Upon arriving in Buenos Aires, he found that Argentinians eat late and take their time about doing it. He remembers going to dinner with his Argentine fellow Rotarians and never getting back to the room before 1:30 am and having to be at meetings by 7 am. He did find time to learn the tango.
Reflecting back on his term as President, Don said the club was gradually changing from a social orientation to a fundraising and community service organization. He credits the Polio Plus initiative for a healthy shift in the Club's attitude toward fundraising. During his tenure, there was no club fundraiser as such. Most of the money raised by the club came from fines and Scholarship Cups. During his term of office, over $20,000 was raised for the Scholarship Fund.
Don's best memory of his year in office was the cooperation and foresight of his Board. Because of their vision and foresight, the path was cleared for the admission of women into our club after the Legislative Council amended the By-Laws in 1989.
Don Rollings - Past President, 1987-88 - A Year of Transition
Nomination Forms for the "4 Way Test" and the "Orville McPherson" Awards are located on "My Clubrunner" under "View Club Documents". Click on the "Award Nomination & Recipients" folder. 2013 forms are available to download in PDF format.
The dapper Don Rollings is a native Tucsonian. After completing junior high, his parents, Kelly and Susan, enrolled him at Andover. After graduation from Andover, Don went to Princeton and graduated with a degree in Romance Languages. He met his wife Nan there and after graduation, they returned to Tucson. Kelly told Don he could have one day off and then she expected him to begin work in the newest family business. The year was 1975.
The newest family venture was Barrio Viejo. Located just south of the newly built Tucson Convention Center, Barrio Viejo is a collection of adobe homes and businesses built in the 18th and 19th centuries. Kelly and Susan Rollings were one of the first in the country to draw an important philosophical distinction in the development of our cities. Urban Renewal, both a welcomed and feared concept, had succeeded in revitalizing areas in many American cities. However, the bulldozer had not only cleared away blighted areas, it had also destroyed many structures which were architectural gems and historical and cultural landmarks.
The Rollings concept was that the bulldozer and new building syndrome was not the only avenue of revitalization of downtown areas. They chose preservation through restoration of older homes in the Barrio Viejo as their contribution to the Downtown Tucson dilemma. To achieve that end, Kelly and Susan Rollings bought twenty adobe homes in the Barrio Viejo area in 1971 and began restoring them and converting them to small commercial properties. These properties were leased to local businesses. Inherent in the restoration project was the preservation of the original character of each building.
Today, Don has assumed most of the duties of the family business. He is especially proud of the Cushing Street Bar and Restaurant. Don's family opened this newly restored adobe as a restaurant and bar in 1972. Located just south of the Tucson Convention Center, The Cushing Street Bar and Restaurant is known for its patio dining, the brass rail at the bar, the imposing statue of Cleopatra that greets visitors, its eclectic menu, award winning margaritas, an outstanding mojito, and its weekly Jazz series.
By coupling preservation and restoration, the Rollings family has kept a residential area intact that has been in Tucson since the 1800's. Don is still excited about the area and its potential in the community. From the initial purchase of 20 homes, the preservation effort has grown to over 30 structures. All adobes with thick walls, most with patios, and all with charm, these structures and the efforts of the Rollings family have received national recognition and awards. Perhaps the award closest to Don's heart was given by the City of Tucson and then Mayor Bob Walkup a few years ago. The award, Heart of Downtown Award, was given to the Rollings family in recognition of their vision and hard work in achieving revitalization through preservation and restoration efforts in the Barrio Viejo.
Don and Nan have two grown children. Elizabeth, age 29, is an attorney specializing in Elder Law. Jim, age 25, is a financial analyst who lives and works in Los Angeles, California. Don joined the Rotary Club of Tucson in 1979. He was 27 years old.
NEXT WEEK- Leadership during a Crisis Year- Don Rollings' 1987-88 term as President of the Rotary Club of Tucson
Greg Byrne, Vice President for Athletics at the University of Arizona, will give the status of Arizona Athletics. Greg Byrne was named Arizona’s 11th Director of Athletics in March 2010. Prior to coming to Arizona, Byrne was Mississippi State University’s Director of Athletics, where he was the youngest top current athletic administrator in the Southeastern Conference and the youngest to lead an athletic program at the NCAA Division I-A level. He started out his career at MSU in June 2006 as Associate Athletic Director for External Affairs.
He has been around successful athletic programs, and the director’s chair, literally all his life. He is the son of long-time athletic administrator Bill Byrne, the recently retired Director of Athletics at Texas A&M University.
Byrne, however, has made a name for himself in intercollegiate athletics. He had 15 years of professional experience prior to assuming the AD’s position, a resume that shows progressive growth in both responsibility and achievement. He has been directly involved in raising over $160 million in gifts during his career in athletics.
Byrne was named by the Sports Business Journal to its 2011 class of "Forty Under 40" top sports management leaders in March 2011.
A native of Pocatello, Idaho, Byrne earned his bachelor’s degree in 1994 and his master’s degree from Mississippi State in 2009. Byrne is married to the former Regina Misa of Junction City, Ore., and the couple has two teenage sons: Nick and Davis.
The meeting was called to order by President JIM LUBINSKI. SUZANNE LAWDER delivered the invocation and in particular drew our attention to the people of Oklahoma following the terrible storm earlier this week. FRANK ZUNNO led us in the pledge and was accompanied on the piano by GARY GETHMANN in leading us in singing “America The Beautiful.” He once again filled in for LESLIE GALLOWAY who unfortunately is still home recovering from pneumonia. We’re all wishing her well.
KEN LIGHT introduced our visiting Rotarians, and numerous guests were acknowledged as a group. Birthday wishes were extended to IRENE DECKER and BILL MOORE.
Sergeant KEVIN WONG first conducted the raffle with a number of gifts. But moreover, President JIM announced the club is receiving a Presidential Citation for Club Achievement. An exceptional award that recognizes the club’s achievements in a broad array of accomplishments. A great group effort. Congratulations to everyone.
JIM RONSTADT reminded us that the nominees for the 4 Way Test and Orville McPherson are due in a few weeks. BOB ERNSTEIN introduced Rotary International Scholarship recipient Nobuko Ichikawa who told us a little about her two years studying Native American cultures here in Tucson. PAULINE HECHLER informed us that KEN TUCKER’S daughter, Megan is to undergo a kidney transplant in a few weeks. We all wish her the best for a speedy and healthy recovery.
Tamara McKinney gave us the latest report from the Reading Seed program. The book distribution program has grown tremendously over the past year. The latest data analysis provided some sobering news and indicates that 42% of our young readers are below a basic level, putting Arizona at one of the lowest levels in the nation. The good news is that the data supports the Reading Seed program as very effective in helping our children get up to speed on reading. Hopefully more good things to come from the Reading Seed.
MARIANNE FREITAS introduced our own MIKE ANDERSON, winner of the 1983 Great American Race. MIKE told us a great story of the race, in which he and his team won the 2800 mile race from Los Angeles to Indianapolis in his 1941 Cadillac. Since it was a rally, not a speed race, precision in calculating the many variables along the way and navigation skills were the ultimate key to victory. With the help of a great team, including two rallyists, Mike’s team was able to accumulate a score of 1.47 (zero was perfect), to win by a nose. Besides the grand prize check, Mike was able to do a victory lap just before the Indianapolis 500 that year. The film he showed was a great look at a small part of the race. Mike’s message of being positive, expecting the best, and being prepared not only helped win the race, but can certainly be carried into other areas of life. President JIM closed the meeting with a toast.
It will be U of A athletics day Wednesday when athletic director Greg Byrne joins us for his annual update. Greg and his team have been busy with renovations to the football stadium and other major projects I am sure he will tell us about. Let’s show Greg we support his efforts by wearing your U of A colors. This will be a great program to bring a guest to so please remember to register them in advance by contacting the Rotary office. We expect a large turnout and we want to be fully prepared.
Equally exciting (well maybe not quite as exciting…), I will be briefing the club on the results of our club assembly held in April. Your board has been hard at work studying the responses and developing an action plan which I will tell you about Wednesday. A lot of good information was obtained and we are working to move forward with a number of initiatives. Thank you for the production conversations held at the assembly.
Margaret Higgins is collecting nominations for the Four Way Test and Orville McPherson awards. All nominations must be received by June 5th so don’t delay getting these turned into Margaret.
Thanks for your support on the scholarship cups the last two weeks. We have collected over $500, a significant improvement. These funds are critical to support the scholarships we award each year. Please continue to support these efforts through our weekly cup collections and quarterly scholarship donations.
Joining Frank this morning at The Egg Connection on Fort Lowell with two of his Saints Peter and Paul parishioners has given me the impetus to write the last part of this article. I refer you to the prior two Tucsotarians.
Rotary for Frank began in Montgomery Village, Maryland. Always desiring to be a Rotarian, Frank and a colleague chartered the Rotary Club of Montgomery Village in 1982—a thriving club even today. Frank’s ideal Rotary is “low profile, but doing big things.” He has always done his charity and community giving in just such a manner. As a pilot when living in Maryland, he volunteered with the Angel Flight, transporting the indigent and ill for medical care. After Frank’s impressive time with Interpol, he and Lynn returned to Tucson. The Rotary Club of Tucson began benefiting from Frank’s wisdom, community pride, and quiet contribution in 1990.
Frank, when asked about his Tucson Rotary Moment, responded: “I was participating in ‘Projecto Amacere,’ a 4-year Rotary Program in the late 90’s initiated by Rotarian Gard Pierce, by flying Tucson doctors to Hermosillo so that they could teach the baby doctors there how to deal with ‘blue babies.’ They had experienced an annual death rate of 60. Within the next year, after the teaching and equipment we bought, the rate was reduced to just 6 a year.” It takes some probing to get the full story of Sid Morse and Frank always looking for another Rotary challenge. Sid Morse was one of those RCoT members described as “a worker who followed up his generosity; he always gave dignity to those he helped.” Sid and Frank were involved with helping a Catholic orphanage south of the border. Frank speaks briefly of being a member of the Pima County Sheriff’s Aviation Squadron. Many volunteer relief flights were made to Southern Arizona areas over the Christmas season in his 1965 Mooney Low Wing—not always without incident. One flight to Safford in 1998 resulted in “an inadvertent forced landing” on Mt. Graham….Most of Frank’s good deeds will never be known.
Faye Morse, Sid’s wife and honorary RCoT member, writes the following: “When I think back to the mid 90's when Sid and I met Lynn and Frank, it was such a familiar meeting. I love how comfortable I felt with both of them! They have that great East Coast style, and such a quirky wit. Frank has always been a great dresser--especially those cool bolo's and turquoise jewelry he wears. He was also a great co-pilot (and good company!) when we would fly to pick up my Dad in Palm Desert. Frank-- a true class act and gentleman.”
Dr. Willie Jordan-Curtis, Asst. Dean for Student Affairs in the UA College of Law, and Mike Morales, fellow parishioners and weekly breakfast partners of Frank, are just a few of Frank’s extended family. Mike, who leads the parish Life Teen Band, spoke of the bonding between his son Drew and Frank. Frank’s WWII Catholic prayer book accompanied Drew on his recent tour of duty in Afghanistan. I’d say that that was pretty special security. Dr. Jordan-Curtis was a close friend of Lynn’s in their Eucharistic Ministry.
Frank’s advice for the New Generation of Rotarians: “Where else can you do something good and it has worldwide implications? We all have skills and knowledge. Work together, have fun, do good. Watch the results.”
Those of us fortunate enough to spend time with Frank will be educated, inspired, and in awe of his many talents and accomplishments. I think of Frank as a very good “diagnostician” who listens well, observes carefully, and knows when an individual is in need. As Frank says, “I see it in their eyes.” I’d like to join Frank with his favorite blended-whiskey Manhattan and ask him more about Lynn, more about Rocky, more about Rudy (Giuliani), more about grandfather clocks, more about his “bucket list.”
Frank, how about pancakes at Laverna’s on Plumer? We can have Manhattans at my house. Happy 90th! Rotarians thank you for “all the memories.”
Great job on the scholarship cups last week! $382 is the largest collection I recall this year. Our club funds approximately $25,000 in scholarships each year with the bulk of the funding coming from our weekly/quarterly scholarship cup collections. It was particularly rewarding because we had 3 of our scholarship students in attendance last week. What a great example you all set for them!
It was good to hear from Will White that our local new construction real estate market is on the rebound. New construction means more jobs and more business for all. Hopefully we will see corresponding improvements in our own property values.
Great program in store for us this week. Our own Mike Anderson will be talking about his adventures winning the first ever “Great American Race”. Many of you will recall that Mike had the winning car on display at last year’s car show. Hope you all will be there to hear about Mike’s little adventure. Bring a friend or better yet, bring a prospective member.
It was early January, 1983. He was sitting in his car in downtown Tucson eating lunch and reading Auto Week Magazine. He read about an upcoming car race; Los Angeles to Indianapolis, limited to 100 entrants, cars 1941 and older, $5,000 entry fee, conducted under SCCA rally rules with a $100,000 Grand Prize!
He immediately thought... antique car guys were not rallyists. Rallyists were into sports cars, not old cars. He figured there would not be many who had both interests. He was neither a “rally guy” or an “old car guy” and somehow he saw this as a great opportunity.
Thanks to the leadership of Jerry Harris and 30 dedicated Club members, we have already sold over 4,000 Car Show tickets at 10 major events held in our Tucson community since March.
Because Mike Anderson was able to procure our 2004 Corvette Prize Car so early, Matt Blair was able to print some early admission/raffle tickets and we sold them at:
· Tucson Festival of Books
· Diamondbacks Spring Training
· 4 Tucson Padres Games
· Tucson Street Rod Association Car Show
· 4th Avenue Street Fair
· Little Anthony’s Car Show
· SAHBA Spring Home Show
My special thanks to Alan Bulzomi, Stan Cramer, Jo DeChatelet, Leslie Galloway, Jan Green, Phil Gutt, Roger Harwell, Marcia Krumwiede, Pat Lennan, John Cousins, Bob Logan, Steve Steenson, Phil Heath, Mary Martin, Irene Decker, Frank Zunno, Tom Strasburg, Joe Pennington, Chuck Sawyer, Keith Wiegand, Kevin Wong, Pat Zumbusch, Vicki Jacobs, Dennis Breen, James Studwell, Maggie Kosinski, Marianne Freitas, and Stacia Decker for helping Jerry and his wife, Audrey, get us off to such a great start with Car Show Ticket Sales.
We are well ahead of last year’s pace, with at least 5 more event opportunities before we begin member sales on July 17th.
This year our member ticket sales will be organized into teams of approximately 20 members, led by 10 Team Captains. Be on the lookout for some innovative ideas to make this year’s ticket sales better and easier than ever before.
Working together, we will make the 2013 Tucson Classics Car Show the “Best One Yet!!”
The meeting was called to order by President JIM LUBINSKI. KEN TUCKER our local Boy Scouts of America director delivered the invocation. FRANK ZUNNO led us in the pledge and the “Star Spangled Banner” filling in for LESLIE GALLOWAY who was home with pneumonia – we wish her a speedy recovery. President JIM led the assembly in a moment of silence in memory of Dick Dahlen who passed away on May 2. Dick was a member of RCoT for 19 years.
The club was then set upon by members in graduate garb who went from table to table encouraging club members to donate to the scholarship fund. Kudos to the club who donated $382 to help our aspiring college grads.
TED FORSBERG was back from a heart-induced hiatus. He is a marvel of modern medicine and we are glad to have him back! SCOTT VAUGHN introduced our guests and visiting Rotarians including a number of Rotary scholars. Many birthday wishes were sent and then Sergeant KEVIN WONG conducted his business. BOB SHAFF reminded the club of the upcoming night at the Tucson Padres for Rotary on May 24 and let them know he still has tickets.
District Governor Randy Brooks made a special presentation. He awarded SALLY MONTAGNE a “Citation for Meritorious Service” for her efforts in assisting in writing and receiving grants for projects around the world. SALLY is a perfect example of “Service Above Self.” She is the only person in the district selected for this honor this year.
RYE Student Eric Peng presented a slide show on his time as an exchange student. Eric was 15 when he came to the United States and has had a wonderful experience here. His current “mother,” Julie Brinks, was also in attendance. Eric mentioned that one of the highlights of his time as and RYE student was being taught how to shake hands like a man by President-elect DAVE GALLAHER.
Will White presented information on the status of the land and homebuilder market in Tucson. Will provided some great information about how much developed land is needed to support new home construction and expressed his concerns about if/how this land is going to be ready. Beware of “Lotmageddon” on September 17, 2014 when Will projects the existing supply of developed land in Tucson will be depleted. President JIM closed the meeting with a toast.
Over 50 of our Club members, along with their friends and families, are signed up for an evening of baseball, food, and fellowship on Friday, May 24th when the Tucson Padres play the Sacramento River Cats at the Kino Sports Complex.
Tickets are $16 per person for a reserved box seat and a food voucher for a sandwich, chips, and a soft drink. The cost of the tickets will be billed to your Rotary account, so no cash is involved. Pick up your tickets at the Rotary table just outside the first base main entrance the night of the game.
If these aren’t enough reasons for you to attend…remember that this is a Frosty Friday promotion at the ballpark, with beer and soft drinks for only $2!! This alone should draw many more Rotarians to the ballpark!!
The game is only 2 days away. If you haven’t already signed up on Clubrunner or let Bob Shaff know how many tickets you want…it’s not too late. Contact Bob Shaff at bob@CFLConsulting.com or at 520-577-0159 by noon on Thursday to reserve your seats.
Rotary Night at the Ballpark - Friday, May 24th at 7:05 p.m.
Please read “World War II” in last week’s Tucsotarian.
Driving into Tucson on Oracle Rd. in their 1949 Buick Super Coupe and experiencing the plethora of date palms and orange groves decided the issue for Frank and Lynn. Tucson became their new home in 1951.
Frank’s first job in Tucson was with a service station at 22nd and 6th. Shortly thereafter, with the tools and knowledge to “step up” to B29s, Frank was hired by a private contractor to rehab these planes for the Korean Conflict. Pursuing his dream in law enforcement, Frank took the Civil Service exam; he was welcomed into the Tucson Police Department. Lynn began her long career in office management and was employed by several large Tucson firms. She was active in the League of Women Voters and the Fraternal Order of Police Ladies Auxiliary. Frank and Lynn became active parishioners of Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church, serving wherever needed. As Eucharistic ministers, they assisted at mass and brought communion to patients at the University Medical Center. Even today, Frank is a member of the Parish Pastoral Council.
Frank’s career at the TPD spanned 15 years. Although his City College of New York studies had been interrupted by World War II, he was determined to get that degree and advance in his law enforcement career. Lynn and Frank went back to Chicago for several months, Frank attaining a degree in Police Administration at Northwestern University. Shortly thereafter, Sgt. Zunno was promoted to Lieutenant and became supervisor of the TPD Academy. Frank persevered with his education, receiving his BA from U of A in Public Administration—all of this while in the Army Reserve Crime Lab Detachment for 12 years. While assigned as special assistant to the Chief of Police, he was offered a position with the International Association of Chiefs of Police in Washington, D.C. The IACP is a 115 yr. old organization that represents 20,000 members worldwide. Frank took the job and later became an Assistant Director. It was this exposure that prompted an offer by the Justice Department to help reorganize Interpol’s function in the US. The history of Interpol is fascinating: Desiring international police cooperation, Monaco failed in its initial effort in 1914. Interpol was resurrected following WWI in Vienna and then Paris. The US joined Interpol in 1938; Hitler seizing control during WWII. The Headquarters are back in France, and headed by the first female President. Although living in Virginia and Maryland, Frank and Lynn extended their Interpol responsibilities in France to include many train trips to many European cities, their favorite being Rome. They were passionate travelers. The internet is replete with articles and presentations on government law enforcement by Frank A. Zunno.
Fortunately, the Zunnos came back to Tucson following Frank’s retirement from Interpol. The story of Frank and Lynn’s community involvement and “Service above Self” through The Rotary Club of Tucson is just beginning….
The meeting was called to order by PRESIDENT JIM LUBINSKI on time. MIKE ORCUTT opened the meeting speaking about our prayer being our conversation with the Lord and our family of Rotarians who work together. Our beloved FRANK ZUNNO lead the pledge with passion and LESLIE GALLOWAY lead us in “America the Beautiful” with GARY GETHMANN playing the ivory keys. On a sad but good note, Member TED FORSBERG, had a heart attack and is doing well. BOB SHAFF spoke about Baseball night on May 24, 2013. CHERYL HOUSE introduced all of the visiting Rotarians and guests. Birthdays were MIKE SAGARA, TOM BROWNING, NINA TRASOFF and JO DECHATELET. There was a great
PAUL HARRIS FELLOWSHIP Presentation by CHARLOTTE HARRIS and BOB LOGAN. KEVIN WONG, son of Dr. WANG was the Sergeant at Arms and did a wonderful job, MIKE DEVRIES gave a Happy Jackson and DAVE GALLAHER spoke about the Rotary Youth Exchange and showed off his daughters old Jacket. The speaker was introduced by PRESIDENT JIM and the speaker, TOM WIGGIN spoke about GOPHR, Global Online Personal Health Resource. This is a bold and new way of keeping all of your personal health information on a computer in a secure environment with a CLOUD based program. The meal was interesting to say the least, not their best, I may order the fruit plate it keeps looking better every week. In closing PRESIDENT JIM gave a great Abraham Lincoln toast “Better to remain silent and be thought a fool than to speak out and remove all doubt.”
May is graduation season in Tucson and in many other places around the country. Congratulations to all of our members who have family members and friends graduating this month. We might even have our own graduation procession this week at Rotary????
On the evening of May 22nd, your club and foundation boards will be holding a joint meeting with the objective of clarifying the clubs future direction for charitable giving. If you have an opinion you would like represented at this meeting, please make sure you share it with a board member from either board. Much of what we learned at our recent club assembly will be incorporated into these discussions. This is part of a strategic planning process and we will share the results at a future club meeting, likely over this summer.
This week we will hear from Will White as he discusses the current local real estate market. Should be interesting so don’t miss it.
For more than a decade, Will has been responsible for the strategic direction of the Land Advisors-Tucson office, including the sale and marketing of residential land to production homebuilders, production lot developers, and speculative investors throughout Pima County, with a particular emphasis on land activity in the Town of Marana. Representing the leading land brokerage firm in Tucson, Will has negotiated the sale of over 13,000 acres within Southern Arizona in addition to the sale of over 3,000 finished/platted lots in the Tucson Metro area in the past 36 months.
Will has built and maintained long-term relationships with many key players in Pima County, successfully representing public and private homebuilders as well as large financial institutions in the disposition of numerous high-profile, large acreage properties.
Will received a Bachelor of Science degree in Regional Development from the University of Arizona, and has held his Arizona Real Estate License since 1997.
He is a member of the Urban Land Institute, DM50, and SAHBA (Southern Arizona Homebuilders Association) and has been consistently acknowledged as a CoStar Power Broker in the Tucson market, based on transactional volume and dollar value. As his experience and insight is often sought after by numerous real estate-related organizations, Will participates in numerous speaking engagements and real estate/economic panels.
What an honor to sit down with Frank Zunno, RCoT Rotarian of 23 years, at Beyond Bread on this beautiful, sunny Tucson April morning. I have asked Frank to provide me with some memoirs that would enable us to celebrate and acknowledge his 90th birthday. It is apparent that Frank’s memoirs need more than just one breakfast and require several “readings.” Joe Nevin and Jerry Harris have given me some suggestions and perspectives. Bob Shaff felt it appropriate to publish two or three “chapters” on Frank; “World War II” is the first.
Frank grew up in a loving Catholic family in Brooklyn with one younger sister, Kathy. Even as a high school senior, he indicated his desire to be in law enforcement. World War II interrupted his plans: Frank enlisted, trained and parachuted with the 17th Army Airborne Division at Fort Benning, and was then on his way to Britain, France, Belgium, Luxembourg and Germany. It was a natural for Frank to be part of the 17th Airborne Division Military Police Platoon. Frank has given me a history lesson on the Battle of the Bulge in late 1944 and the Wesel “Operation Varsity” in 1945 in which he participated. The 17th Airborne Division, known as the “The Thunder from Heaven,” had the most casualties in a single day in airborne history at Wesel. Despite the cost in lives, “Varsity” achieved all of its objectives, assisting in the final conquest of Nazi Germany and meriting a Presidential Unit Citation. The 17th Airborne Division had four Congressional Medal of Honor recipients—more than any other Division.
Frank volunteered that while finishing his European tour in Berlin, he cared for a “rescue” German shepherd dog and negotiated an adoption back to the States, “Devil” arriving in New York even before his master. That accomplishment became a legend on Highland St. in Brooklyn, even impressing Frank’s teenage coed neighbor, Lynn. A marriage to Lynn Philibert followed that 1946 homecoming and NY parade. Frank, although passing the NYPD Civil Service Exam, invested in a gas service station. Employing eight individuals and expanding a towing service, this 24 yr. old veteran succeeded in the business for 4 years until his lease ran out.
Now the story really begins. With all the necessary auto tools in the trunk of his 1949 Buick Super Coupe, Frank and his wife Lynn set out to find a warmer clime and a new beginning. We usually go about as far in life as our resources allow us; it was no different with Frank and Lynn….
President JIM started promptly at 12:00, always appreciated by the members. New way of doing lunch was tested with a buffet line with several choices. One positive is it seemed to really mix the tables. JIM RONSTADT provided our invocation with a wonderful prayer. LESLIE GALLOWAY led our group in the pledge and song. STACIA DECKER did a great job on introduction of guests with one visiting Rotarian and 12 guests present. Just one birthday, GERRY HALLOWELL and I am still pondering his joke. KEVIN WONG did another wonderful job as Sergeant at Arms moving efficiently through many announcements including a reminder of next week’s Goodwill clothes drive. Clean those closets!! BOB SHAFF reported a great early effort on people signing up for the baseball game on the 24th of May. There was a quick announcement encouraging Club members to “like” the club on Facebook.
GARY HIRSCH introduced our speaker and GARY always has a wonderful time in front of the microphone. “Dare to Dream” was a wonderful story about an impossible and improbable dream that became a large local non-profit that helps needy people all over the world. Lisa Hopper did a great job not only defining how World Care came into existence but also its amazing scope of activities. Well done!
President JIM closed with a quote from Mother Teresa. You can’t go wrong quoting Mother Teresa: “Let us touch the dying, the poor, the lonely and the unwanted according to the graces we have received and let us not be ashamed or slow to do the humble work.”
This week we continue our tradition of supporting Goodwill Industries with another closet cleaning day. Please take a look in your closets before coming on Wednesday and bring all of those gently used items that have been cluttering your closet for years. Maybe you can even take the opportunity to get rid of those things your partner or spouse has that you really don’t care for! (Just don’t say it was my idea…) Goodwill has been a great partner of our club over the years including providing space for Reading Seed. Suzanne and Joe, we appreciate all you do for our community and we value our partnership!
Special good wishes go out to member Ted Forsberg as he recovers from his recent heart surgery. At the time of this writing he is resting comfortably in a hospital in Flagstaff and told me he plans to be back for our May 15th meeting. Looking forward to seeing you back Ted!
This week we will hear from Tom Wiggin with a program entitled “Global Online Personal Health Resource – The Future of Health Care”. As we all know health care reform has been a major story since the passing of the Affordable Healthcare Act. So much is still unknown about where this will take us so Tom’s presentation will be very timely.
NOTE: Meeting will be in the BONSAI/BOOJUM ROOMS, off main lobby
Plated Salad ~ Spring Mix Salad with Ranch and Balsamic dressings
Chicken Tostadas ~ served with Refried Beans & Cheese, Spanish Rice, Tortilla Chips and Salsa, Assorted Cookies served family style, Coffee, Decaf or Iced Tea Vegetarian option if reserved by Monday noon:
Portabella Tostada ~ served on a Corn Tortilla Tostada, Lettuce, Black Olives, Cheese and Diced Tomatoes
Fresh Fruit Plate and Gluten Free meals available by advance reservation only.
Menu for May 8th at The DoubleTree in the Bonsai/Boojum Rooms
A look at how Electronic Personal Health Records can transform health and safety for individuals and business employees in the Tucson community. We’ll demonstrate how easy this technology is to obtain and to use, and give concrete examples why it is truly the future of healthcare. The owners of a new PHR called GoPHR, will also explain why they chose to develop and launch their business in Tucson.
Biography - Tom Wiggin
Tom Wiggin is one of the owners of a new national company based in Tucson called GoPHR (Global Online Personal Health Resource). After two years of research and development, GoPHR launched to the public in September of 2012.
Tom and his wife, Jennifer, decided to create GoPHR after the passing of the HiTech Act of 2009, the Affordable Care Act, and the subsequent national debates. To Tom and Jenn, GoPHR was a way to get individuals engaged in their health care while the rest of the health community was working on upgrading to electronic records.
Before GoPHR, Tom was a professional actor and writer who had celebrated 31 years in show business.
As an actor, his numerous credits include starring roles on Broadway on Prime Time TV and on Daytime TV. Tom is best known for creating the role of Kirk Anderson on the long running soap As the World Turns.
As a writer, Tom has written scripts for daytime dramas, had a screenplay, Gift of the Robin’s Nest, optioned and he recently completed his first novel, The Client’s Wife.
Tom is the proud father of two grown daughters, Anna and Eliza.
Thursday evening I attended the spring STAR meeting for our newest members. The hour and a half long session was packed with useful information about Rotary International (RI) and our club. While it is impossible to cover everything a new member should know in one evening, STAR provides a great overview and more importantly teaches new members where to go to get answers to any question they may have about our club or RI. Special thanks go out to all who presented and especially to Mike Orcutt, Don Rollings and Vicki Jacobs for putting the program together. Great job team!
Our program committee continues to deliver! Chief Cnota last week was inspirational and a great example of the quality of our soldiers in uniform. This week we will hear from one of Tucson’s home grown charities when Lisa Hopper from “World Care” will be our speaker. What began in Lisa’s garage in 1994 has grown to an organization with a global reach. Another great Tucson original!
Suzanne Lawder was born in rural Virginia. She moved to Arizona when she was four. Her father had returned from service in the Navy during World War II to find jobs scarce. Like many returning servicemen, he had to leave home and search for work. He found work in the construction industry in Arizona. He brought his family with him and they lived a fast paced and fast moving life. They lived in a trailer and Suzanne's father soon gained distinction building roads. Suzanne remembers going to six different schools in the first grade. Her early memories include desert adventures with her older brother, rattlesnakes, and tarantulas. Curiosity was an early personality trait. Fear was not.
After graduating from Arizona State University with a degree in business, Suzanne married. Her husband was a UN pilot and they lived in Jerusalem for a short period. A divorce left her a single mother with no job. While she was in Tucson, Suzanne took the advice of a friend and interviewed with Goodwill Industries of Southern Arizona in 1982. She turned down the job and was walking out of the building when the thought came to her. I belong here. She turned around, walked back in, accepted the job and began a spectacular career. Goodwill Industries was in a state of disarray, both financially and internally with payrolls sometimes not being met. In 1987, interviews were held by an all male board to hire a new president. Many candidates were interviewed. Suzanne was awarded the position and turned the organization around.
She says being a CEO is not for sissies and the goal is not to win a popularity contest. She had to make hard choices. Employees had to be laid off. Long hours were the norm, not the exception. Her daughter, Holly, spent many nights with her mother in the Goodwill offices doing homework and reading while her mother worked. Through perseverance and hard work, the company turned around and became a viable part of the Southern Arizona community. Holly grew up, went to Medical School, did a fellowship at the Mayo Clinic, and now practices Radiology in Phoenix. Her husband is also a Radiologist.
The usual term for a CEO at a company is around five years. Suzanne has over 25 years as a CEO and President. Bob Shaff was on the board of Goodwill Industries for a number of years. He says, "It was one of the most positive experiences of my life. Suzanne is great to work with and a natural leader." Suzanne now oversees a business that employs 500 employees and directly touches the lives of over 18,000 people. Suzanne said, "The mission of Goodwill Industries is to provide services, training and jobs to people with barriers to employment." Changing lives through the power of work is the root concept of Goodwill Industries.
Goodwill Industries also provides a youth mentoring program for local young people who need extra help getting through the formative years between 12 and 17. There are over 100 young people in this program. Goodwill also sponsors a training program for people who are interested in working in call centers and customer service businesses. This is an area of growth in the Southern Arizona business community. The Youth Employment Program trains young people between the ages of 17 and 21 to enter the job market at entry level jobs. Each year over 200 youth trained by Goodwill are able to enter the job market.
Goodwill has expanded in Southern Arizona with stores in Sierra Vista, Casa Grande, and Benson. Recently, an upscale, boutique shop specializing in name brand, fashionable clothes, accessories and furnishings opened at 7266 North Oracle Road. Goodwill Industries also sells donated cars, motorcycles, RVs, and boats. Recently, a 1937 red Jaguar Replica convertible was donated and sold.
From near bankruptcy and chaos, Suzanne has brought Goodwill Industries of Southern Arizona to the forefront of nonprofits. Jim Gibbons, national President and CEO of Goodwill Industries International recently called our local Goodwill the "model nonprofit." Today, Suzanne oversees an organization with more than $11 million in yearly revenue. Recently, she received the prestigious Kenneth K. King Management Award for Executive Excellence. Although Suzanne is usually at Rotary each Wednesday, she now is asked to travel to Goodwill Industry locations across the country to train and mentor other CEOs.
Suzanne joined Rotary over ten years ago. She was recruited by Joe Nevin. She resisted his efforts at first but once she came to a meeting, she was hooked. Suzanne says her attraction to Rotary is that "Rotarians are people helping others and people who will go the extra miles to get the job done." Suzanne enjoys working at the Car Show. She said she and Dr. Hugh Thompson were the last to leave the grounds of St. Gregory last year on the day of the Car Show and she had fun helping. She works in Admissions and capped the day off by helping pick up trash after the show was over. The Reading Seed and Tucson Classics Car Show connection extends to Goodwill Industries. Goodwill Industries contributes books to Reading Seed and provides Reading Seed with a rent free facility.
For fun, Suzanne likes to hike, cycle, and travel."I like to travel all over, but I really like beaches. Coronado Beach in San Diego is my favorite," Suzanne said. On Wednesday, May 8th, Goodwill will conduct a Clothing Drive before our Rotary meeting. Suzanne, the CE0 and President, will probably be outside collecting clothes and other items along with Joe Nevin, Bob Ernstein, Frank Zunno, and Dr. Jan Green.
President JIM rang the meeting to order right on time as he always does. SUSAN MOORE VAULT provided our invocation with wonderful words of inspiration. LESLIE GALLOWAY led our group in the pledge and song. President JIM surprised our wonderful Rotary office ladies for Administrative Professionals Day with flowers provided by Irene Decker. Thanks Arla and Dorinna for everything you do for our club! Sir CHARLIE MEAKER made introductions of our guests and visiting Rotarians. The group seems extra welcoming this week. We had more than just the rowdy table making a ruckus. Our birthday group had JOHN LEWIS, RON OXMAN, and KATHY KITAGAWA celebrating this week. Happy Birthday to you all! CHARLOTTE HARRIS presented to our lone Paul Harris this time around. JAN SEAGONDOLLAR received his Paul Harris X6. What a role model for all of us to aspire to. Congratulations JAN! DAVE PASHKOW was our fill in Sergeant at Arms this week. The highlight was the raffle prize of the Deer warning device. Who from the mid-west cleaned out their closet to pony up this one? At least we all know CHRIS EDWARDS will be safe on the roads from hitting a deer. We need all hands on deck the 8th of May for the Goodwill clothes drive. Clean those closets!! Let BOB SHAFF know if you are ready to “play ball” on the 24th of May. And last but not least everyone should pat themselves on the back for last week’s food drive. We provided funds that will buy over $16,000 of food to local Tucsonans in need of help. We are the greatest club EVER!!
JOHN LEWIS got double time as he introduced our speaker Dawna Cnota, who is the first female Command Chief Master Sergeant at our local base DM. She spoke from the heart about her “flight path of a female in the Air Force”. I think it is safe to say she has a passion and pride regarding her country and people. President JIM closed it out with a great quote from Thomas Jefferson. So great in fact let’s read it again: “I have never considered a difference of opinion, in politics, in religion, in philosophy, as a cause for withdrawing from a friend.”
The “Dare to Dream” series encourages participants to expand their dreams to the next level. Lisa dared to dream of a humanitarian aid organization in 1994 and has since grown her organization, World Care, to globally reuse and recycle up to 5 million pounds of resources each year. She will speak on the dream that began World Care and how you can expand your dreams to not only help yourself, but those in need as well.
Bio of Lisa Hopper
Lisa Hopper is the founder and CEO of World Care, an international humanitarian aid organization headquartered in Tucson. In 1994, Lisa began collecting school supplies in her garage for local children in need. Every year World Care reuses and recycles nearly 5 million pounds of material by channeling usable items to global humanitarian aid programs and diverting non-usable items from landfills to be broken down and recycled. Lisa holds a Bachelor of Science in Administration and Physics from George Washington University. She is an international lecturer and consultant as well as an adjunct lecturer at the University of Arizona Honors College in International Studies and Social Entrepreneurship. Lisa released her first book in the Fall 2010 entitled “In the Wake of a Dream.”
Chief Master Sergeant Dawna M. Cnota is the Command Chief Master Sergeant for the 355th Fighter Wing at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Ariz. She advises the installation commander on matters influencing the health, morale, welfare, readiness and effective utilization of more than 4,000 enlisted Airmen. Chief Cnota is also the installation functional manager for the base's 26 first sergeants and serves on committees developing and implementing Air Force policies and programs that positively impact the quality of life for more than 9,000 Airmen, civilian employees and family members who work and live on the installation.
Chief entered the Air Force in June 1986. Her background includes experience in law enforcement, nutrition therapy, military training, and first sergeant. She has deployed in support of Operations JOINT ENDEAVOR, IRAQI FREEDOM, ENDURING FREEDOM and NEW DAWN.
Has everyone followed up on the membership leads generated in our “FRAN” exercise from the Club Assembly a few weeks ago? These exercises become just that unless we follow through and invite prospective members to one of our meetings. Once we get them there, they will see we have a lot to offer. Let’s all make this a focus for the next few weeks.
I wanted to thank this year’s program chairs, Mary Martin and Ken Light for the outstanding job they have done. It makes a president’s life much easier when this vital component of our meetings is well taken care of. They will be handing over the reins to Bob Logan and Jeff Ronstadt beginning this summer. Good luck Bob and Jeff, you have great examples to follow!
The news this week has been filled with tragedy. From the terrorists bombing in Boston to the tragic industrial accident in Texas, it can make you question what is going on in our world. This is why Rotary and organizations like it are so necessary. One of Rotary’s key missions is world peace. When we work together on international service projects, it helps bridge the gap between nations. And, when devastation strikes locally, Rotarians line up to help the victims. I think this is important to remember when we question our commitment to voluntary service outside of our professions.
This week we will hear from Dawna Cnota, Command Chief Master Sergeant at Davis Monthan. She will be talking about “The Flight Path of a Female in the Air Force”. Sounds like an “up lifting experience” that you won’t want to miss.
KEN LIGHT began our meeting today with some great words of wisdom during the invocation; reminding us all to become better people and Rotarians. He saved the best wisdom for last: Leave it (the earth) better then you found it.
IRENE DECKER led us in the pledge and song today. New member MATT NANCE had the privilege of introducing our guests and visiting Rotarians and did a wonderful job! Welcome and nice job getting involved MATT. TOM ANDREWS celebrated his landmark 65th birthday. Welcome to the senior circuit TOM. MATT BLAIR came out of retirement to generate some income for the club. Nice work MR. BLAIR.
We had Giovanna Mascella and Andrea Prichard both talking South America. Giovanna, our exchange student from Brazil, sponsored by club 4590 gave us a lesson: Brazil 101 and Andrea, who is involved in our international project in Bolivia, spoke about providing flowing water to remote mountaintop villagers. Let’s all just stop and think about how lucky we are. We turn the faucet and water comes out. We had Dr. Jim Gentile as our program today. Personally, I found him and his topic quite interesting. It is all about Bio-Motion.
Another great job by our Program Committee! Wonderful Rotary day.
We all know Irene as the fabulous lady who brings the flowers on occasion to Rotary. But what you may not know is that Irene was born 2 weeks after the end of WWII and was to be named Maria but her father changed her name to Irene after the Greek Goddess who personified Peace. Irene emigrated from Holland to Canada when she was 20 years old on a boat that took 10 days to reach Montreal. Of all the passengers on the boat, there were 500 single men and 5 single women, lucky for the women, not so much so for the men. Three of the women met their spouses on this voyage. Irene lived in Montreal for 14 years where she worked at the Royal Bank of Montreal. She then moved to New York City and stayed for six months with her sister-in-law who worked for a senator. The senator sponsored Irene so she could stay in the United States. Irene then moved to Sunnyvale, CA to be close to her sister, who had emigrated from Holland two years before Irene. Irene stayed in California for six years, working as a buyer for a food company before moving to Tucson where she had bought an electronics business that specialized in the fabrication of electronic circuitry. Irene sold the all male business after four years and started in the floral business which she has today.
On the family side, Irene has two children Robert (Stacia) and Wendy. Robert was a member of RCOT and then became a Centurion. Stacia, her daughter-in-law is an active member of the club. Each of Irene’s children has two children (boy and girl each). Ryan Decker (Robert and Stacia’s son) has made significant achievements including winning first place in the Liquid Militia Jet Ski World Competition in February of 2013. Google “Ryan Decker Liquid Militia” and you can read all about this young man’s tremendous accomplishment. He is a junior in high school and has an internship at the U of A, Dept. of Engineering. Irene says that he got his work ethic from “working in the flower shop”. Irene’s other granddaughter, Lacey (Robert and Stacia) lives in Georgia with her husband who serves in the U.S. Navy as a submariner.
Irene’s other daughter Wendy, lives in Bozeman, MT, and has two small children, Emma and Dean who are in elementary school. They are just starting out and have big shoes to fill in the Decker tradition.
When asked why she joined Rotary, Irene said she joined four years ago because she was very much conscious of the Tucson community.
Plated Salad ~ Spring Mix Salad with Honey Dijon and Italian dressings
Corn Flake Chicken ~ Grilled Chicken Breasts incrusted with Crushed Corn Flakes, Roasted Wedge Potatoes, Broccoli, Assorted Rolls and Butter, Assorted Cookies served family style, Coffee, Decaf or Iced Tea
Vegetarian option if reserved by Monday noon:
Portabella Mushroom Napoleon ~ Layers of Grilled Portabella Mushrooms with a Roasted Corn Spicy Salsa and Topped with Fresh Herbs
Fresh Fruit Plate and Gluten Free meals available by advance reservation only.
Menu for April 24th in Bonsai/Boojum Rooms at The DoubleTree
A lot of good information was gathered at our club assembly last week. It was good to hear from the membership on a wide variety of challenges that face our club and there was not a shortage of opinions on how to address them! It will take us a week or two to summarize and digest the data. My hope is that we will discuss this at our next board meeting and then report back to the club sometime in May. In the interim, I hope you take seriously the membership exercise we did at the meeting and follow through on the leads you listed on the note cards. Talking about how to recruit new members is great but, nothing happens if we do not take action. One thing that seemed readily apparent, many of our members are not using ClubRunner/our website or reading the bulletin when it is e-mailed each week. This is one of the main ways we use to distribute information so I encourage you all to become familiar with these tools. Thank you all for a spirited discussion last Wednesday.
This week Jim Gentile from Research Corp will be addressing the club on the “The Future of Science”. Again, a great topic so invite a guest/potential member to our meeting this Wednesday.
Plated Salad ~Spring Mix Salad with Poppyseed and Balsamic Viniagrette dressings
Rosemary Garlic Pork Loin ~ served with Mashed Potatoes, Fresh Seasonal Vegetable, Assorted Rolls and Butter, Assorted Cookies served family style, Coffee, Decaf or Iced Tea Vegetarian option if reserved by Monday noon:
Stuffed Pepper ~ stuffed with Herb Risotto, finished with Basil and roasted Tomato Sauce
Fresh Fruit Plate and Gluten Free meals available by advance reservation only.
The increasing complexity of science is leading to the exploration of new models for large-scale collaborative research. This ‘Big Science,’ ‘Convergent’ approach, however, has created anxieties and potential tensions between investigator-driven research, and research guided by a more organized, collaborative effort. That noted, the work of coordinated multidisciplinary groups to solve complex problems can be an important way to harness the creativity of individual investigators, stimulate innovation, and supply the infrastructure, experimental systems, and resources needed to solve complex and important science problems. The Convergence revolution is a paradigm shift that will require a broad rethinking of how all scientific research can be conducted.” “Convergence” also demands a new approach to science education such that future scientists are more willing and adept at entering unique collaborations (with scientists and non-scientists alike) to solve the scientific puzzles of today, and in the future. In this talk, we will show some Convergent models involving the science of running insects, gecko toes, and engineering to not only demonstrate the ease with which such collaborations can and do work, but also how students can become the Convergent Scientists of the future.
PAT ZUMBUSCH opened the meeting with the invocation followed by LESLIE GALLOWAY leading the pledge and song.
After lunch, JUDY KEAGY introduced guests and visiting Rotarians. We celebrated birthdays with ELLEN WHEELER, DICK DOBRIN, and JAY ZUCKER. DICK shared a great quote about birthdays, “Today is the oldest you’ve ever been and the youngest you’ll ever be.” Have to think about that one for a moment….
KEVIN WONG led the announcements. MARCIA KRUMWIEDE promoted the Community Food Drive and MIKE ORCUTT announced an upcoming STAR program.
It was a short announcement time to give more time for the Club Assembly portion of the meeting. For the Club Assembly there were some great table discussions about our meeting location, member engagement, membership, meeting structure, and programs. It will be interesting to see what the overall outcome of the discussions is. Stay tuned for more information, I guess…
JIM LUBINSKI ended the meeting with a social media conversation with Paul Harris. Mr. Harris was very complimentary of JOE PENNINGTON and a bit concerned about ROGER HARWELL’s attendance…
Clarke Russell Duncan has lived a life of service. From Okinawa to Tucson, he has distinguished himself by personal sacrifice, vision, compassion, and athletic achievement. Clarke Russell Duncan grew up in Phoenix. In high school, his dream was to play professional baseball. He was a third baseman and his talent was a given. Before he could realize this dream, he was called into military service. There was a war going on. After excelling in training for the U.S. Corps of Engineers, he earned the rank of Second Lieutenant at the age of nineteen. He was the youngest person to achieve that rank in the history of the armed forces. His job designation was Combat Platoon Leader. He was building Bailey Bridges across rivers and building roads through the jungle on the island of Okinawa during the heaviest fighting. The highest casualties in the Pacific occurred at Okinawa. One night in the jungle, Clarke was wounded by a mortar round that hit a nearby rock. A piece of shrapnel struck Clarke in the leg. He reached down and found part of the shrapnel protruding from his leg and pulled it out but kept on trying to find a bulldozer to help him with the road building. He refused medical aid because he wanted to finish building the roads and bridges that would allow our troops to advance through the jungle. He was awarded the Purple Heart. Clarke dismisses the medal and is more proud of the bridges and roads he helped build.
After returning to Phoenix and completing junior college, Clarke committed to come to the University of Arizona on a baseball scholarship that was offered to him by Pop McKale while he was still in high school. Leon Blevins was a friend of Clarke's. He wavered in his commitment to come to the University of Arizona. Clarke took Blevin's bags and threw them in the trunk of his car, locked it, and told Blevins, "We're going to Tucson.” Clarke and Leon are now both in the University of Arizona Hall of Fame. Clarke was also named to several All -American teams for his play at third base. After graduating from the University of Arizona in 1951, Clarke Duncan played baseball for several years then settled down with his wife, Shirley, a Kansas native. They have two grown children and have been married 62 years.
His life of service was just beginning. While pursuing a distinguished career in life insurance, Clarke balanced a professional career with community service. Loyal to the University that had given him a scholarship; Clarke served in many capacities and made a crucial decision that is responsible for much of the growth of the University. Soon after graduation, he joined the Arizona Towncat Foundation. The Foundation was founded in the late 1920's. The Foundation was the chief fundraiser for the University Athletic Department and Clarke was the chief fundraiser for over ten years. But he saw a better way to raise money and after meeting with sixteen major college fund developers, he was able to convince the Foundation’s membership to relinquish their fund raising responsibility to the University in an effort to modernize athletic fundraising at the University. As a result, the Wildcat Club was organized in 1971 and the Foundation was dissolved. The University made tremendous advances in fund raising as a result of this change.
Clarke was actively involved in the University sports program for over fifty years. Joe Nevin recalls looking for Clarke at the scoring table at every game he attended until Clarke retired from the position of Basketball Official Scorekeeper after forty-two years of service. Joe said it gave him comfort to look down and see a fellow Rotarian at the scorer’s table. He said, "When I saw Clarke, I knew things would be done right." Clarke also worked as a track and field official for thirty-one years. In 1970, the University recognized his dedication and presented him with their highest honor, the Alumni Service Award. He has also received the University of Arizona Distinguished Citizen Award, the Letterman's Appreciation Award twice, the Bridge Builder Award, the T. Bruce Huffman Award, and the Al Slonaker Award. Clarke was also inducted into the Pima County Sports Hall of Fame in 1997.
Beyond his service to the University, Clarke has been appointed to serve on three different State of Arizona Boards by three different governors. The Boards are, Judicial Qualifications, Emergency Medical Services Commission, and the Commission on Trial Court Appointments. On a national level, he has served on the Selective Service Board, and the National Red Cross Retiree Board.
Clarke is a Paul Harris Fellow and a member of our club since 1970. His service to the Red Cross is legendary. Michael Sagara remembers Clarke wearing a blue jumpsuit with the Red Cross Emblem on the back delivering blood in emergency situations. From 1974 through 1989, Clarke was the Southern Arizona Regional Blood Administrator. He was tasked with ensuring that blood required for patients in Southern Arizona hospitals was always available.
Frank Zunno, a fellow World War Two Combat Veteran, and a man of few words, smiled when I asked him about Clarke. Frank said, "He is debonair and he gets the job done."
Susan and I just returned from our District raffle trip “win” to Safari in South Africa. For us it was a dream come true sort of trip. A few of our fellow Rotarians know that while Susan and I have known each other since 8th grade and our pictures are side by side in all the high school yearbooks, (know we did not date) we would meet each other again at a mutual friend’s Rotary Group Study Exchange going away party to South Africa. At that time, I did not know what Rotary meant. It was coincidental, but very neat, that 25 years later still married we would celebrate our 25th anniversary with a trip to South Africa that was donated by Discover South Africa to raise money for work projects by the District for Natal, Brazil.
It is very interesting the people you meet who recognize and respect the wheel of Rotary which I always wear. We spent one day in the Winelands outside of Cape Town where we had a most incredible wine and food experience. Cape Town and the Winelands are recognized around the world for their culinary experiences and the many fine wines that come from that area. I only wish I had my wine expert pal Jerry Harris there with me while tasting these great wines. We did make up a meeting in Blouberg (suburb) just outside of Cape Town and we were treated so wonderfully by the 30 member club. Yes, I did win their nightly raffle of a great bottle of wine and if they had had a mean SA like our Kevin Wong, it would have been expensive. Their SA was taking the night off.
We had a quick trip back to Johannesburg and visited Soweto and Nelson Mandela’s home and that of his neighbor Desmond Tutu. It was eye opening and the contrasts suggested to me that South Africa is a country experiencing tremendous change. We took delivery of a rental car and through some sort of miracle after being lost in Johannesburg for two hours; we were successful in leaving the City.
Our last three days were spent at Thornybush Game Lodge in Kruger National Park. Several days before our arrival, a lion had killed one of two leopard’s cubs and it would be the only one of the Big Five we would not see as it was being protective of its remaining cub. The facility and the staff were amazing as was the food. The acting manager of the lodge also recognized my Rotary shirt as we were leaving and she told us a typical RYE story how her family hosted a girl (her age) from Uruguay. The girl has since married and visited her family in South Africa several times and her parents had attended her wedding. Our vacation would be one of the most memorable experiences of our lives and the thread of Rotary ran all the way to the final flight where we would meet the President of the Ciudad Obregon, Mexico Rotary Club on the airplane. Wear your pin! We have lots of friends and companions around the world. We are glad to be back in one of the most beautiful places in the world. D
This week our meeting will be a Club Assembly. Club assemblies are intended to engage members in the club operations, handle administrative club business such as Bylaw changes and gather useful input from members. If you recall, last fall our club assembly focused on reports from our various committees. This week we will have a slightly different agenda. Among the topics we will address are;
- Meeting location options
- Member engagement
- Membership challenges
- Programs
- Meeting structure
Our format will include discussions lead at each table by one of our current board members as well as some informal voting on a number of topics. Seating will be random! You will receive a table number as you enter, so please plan on sitting at the designated table. We are doing this to promote discussion and help members meet and hear opinions from other members they may not associate with on a regular basis. The information we gather will be used to plan the coming year and beyond, so please plan to attend.
As this meeting is focusing on club business and we will not have a program, you may want to consider not bringing guests as this will be a working session.
KEITH COBB opened the meeting with the invocation followed by LESLIE GALLOWAY leading the pledge and song.
JON WANG led a tribute to Hank Oyama, a member from August, 1988 to October, 2005, who recently passed away.
After a wonderful lunch, JO DECHATELET introduced us to guests and visiting Rotarians. SUSAN MOORE VAULT and GORDON SHAW were celebrating birthdays today.
KEVIN WONG led a raffle and announcements. BILL MOORE talked about the upcoming Community Food Drive. JOE NEVIN introduced Odet Augustine, a former scholarship recipient, and shared a wonderful success story. Odet is now an engineer at Raytheon and just became a U.S. citizen. IRENE DECKER also recognized HUGH THOMPSON for his help during her recent illness. IRENE made a generous donation in HUGH’s name.
SCOTT VAUGHAN introduced the program and speaker, Lisa Schnebly Heidinger from the Arizona Centennial Foundation. Lisa did a great job of telling us about her travels in creating Arizona’s 100th Anniversary book. President JIM concluded our meeting with the toast for the day.
Plated Salad ~Spring Mix Salad with Ranch and Herb Viniagrette dressings
Chicken Parmesan ~ Breaded Chicken Breast served with herb buttered Angel Hair finished with Marinara Sauce and Mozzarella, Fresh Seasonal Vegetables, Assorted Rolls and Butter, Assorted Cookies served family style, Coffee, Decaf or Iced Tea Vegetarian option if reserved by Monday noon:
Portobella Napoleon ~ Layers of Grilled Portabella Mushrooms, Fried Polenta, Grilled Vegetables and Swiss Cheese, finished with Marinara Sauce and Pecorino Romano Cheese.
Fresh Fruit Plate and Gluten Free meals available by advance reservation only.
Most Tucsonan Rotarians have experienced the Grand Canyon. Certainly, Grand Canyon experiences are very personal and often difficult to put into words. We feel privileged to be RCoT Rotarians, to have the Grand Canyon and Phantom Ranch adventure, and to be led by Tom Andrews from the time he conceived our trip, made the reservations, got us in shape to hike, prepared us for the best (and the worst) and then took us down and up—20 down, 20 up. Thanks to PP Hugh Thompson and Pat Heath, The Topsiders had great hiking and much “interesting” entertainment.
TOM & JEWEL, TOM & WANDA, GEORGE & DAWN, RICH, PP ROGER & JERI, JEFF & PAT, CHERYL & BOB, KENT & MARY, PP DON & NAN, BOBBY & ROBIN, BRUCE, BILL, CHUCK & KATHY, PDG ERNIE, ERIC, PP HUGH & ALLYN, JAN & WENDY.
You might call us a “Mutual Admiration and Appreciation Rotary Hikers Club.” We’d like to share some of our email correspondence with The Tucsotarian.
PP Hugh Thompson: The Topsiders shared the wonderful Rotary camaraderie that makes this type of trip so special. Walking the 1.7 mile Trail Of Time along the rim took us through the 2 billion years of Grand Canyon history—1 million years with each step…. A 3 mile round trip hike to Cedar Ridge on the S. Kaibab trail gave us a brief touch of what our "Magnificent 20" experienced on their 5400' descent and the awe of looking UP the canyon walls. We enjoyed having Eric Peng, our exchange student, and his host, PDG Ernie Montagne. Every bucket list needs to include a Grand Canyon experience.
Cheryl House: Many, many thanks and congratulations from me (and Bob, too!) What a wonderful, life-affirming experience and I can't imagine a better group of people to have been there with. Thanks for making Bob feel so welcome. It was great to get to know your spouses, and each of you, my Rotary brothers, better. Tom Andrews gets a big group hug for putting it all together. Joining the Hiking Group is the best thing I have done in Rotary - see you on the trail soon!
Rich Flynn: It was a group adventure to begin with, and finished with a great group effort. Thank you all for your comradeship. I cherish the memories of all of us down there together.
Bobby Larson: That was a wonderful adventure that I will never forget. Thank you again so much, Tom and Hugh, for all of your efforts putting together such a wonderful experience. Getting to know so many of you so much better was just icing on the cake. Another example of why the Hiking Club of Rotary is such an integral part of my membership! I also need to thank Chuck, George, Dawn, and Robin for getting me down the last leg from The Tipoff. Not sure I would have made it without you. Also need to thank Chuck for organizing Friday’s hike to Ribbon Falls. Not sure it was the best thing for my legs, but definitely the best part, for me, of all the hiking. And those Falls…WOW! Finally, my fondest and most inspirational memory: Rich Flynn blowing by us about ¾’s of the way up Bright Angel. We were definitely “trudging” along and he went by us like we were standing still. He’s amazing! Thanks to all, and have a restful week.
Bill Moore: Several memories stand out: The overwhelming beauty, the feeling of honor to be in the Canyon. In spite of the aches and some very real pain, it was so worth it. But the best memory will be of the companionship and the camaraderie of the group.
PP Roger Harwell: Well said, Mr. Marine. Thanks to all for a great team adventure. “Rainbow” Larson! That name has got to stick! Clearly the opportunity to spend quality time with people we knew from “well” to “who’s that?” under an exciting yet challenging circumstance was the highlight. Friendships were created and friendships expanded. Everyone benefited differently but everyone benefited significantly from the Grand adventure.
Bruce Tunze: What a fabulous trip! I especially enjoyed getting to know many of you better. Let’s do it again, (but maybe let the soreness subside first)!
Mary Laughbaum: Kent and I agree! What wonderful memories!
Chuck Sawyer: Hiking in the Canyon changes forever how you view one of the World’s great works of nature. By getting to the bottom of the Canyon, you somehow “own” a small part of it, in a way that is vision changing….Our Rotary team lived, laughed and pulled together in a way that created a bond with each other and with this special place. I can’t wait to go again and to have my family join me.
PP Don Rollings: Companerismo is a word that I like in Spanish. It refers to a special mix of companionship and friendship. That’s what Nan and I experienced in the Canyon. Please accept our thanks and a big bear hug, Canyon style. Cheers.
George Darling: Dawn and I had a great time on this trip…to Greer to hike Mt. Baldy soon. Thanks for the memories!
Tom Andrews: I will NOW accept your thanks for putting the trip together, since all 20 of us made it out of the Canyon, successfully and safely. Actually, I want to thank all of YOU for making it a pretty easy operation to set up and execute, once we were LUCKY ENOUGH to get the reservations! The more I've talked to people, both around Tucson and at the Canyon, the more I realize what a rare and wonderful opportunity we had to see Mother Nature's work in all its grandeur, and do it with extraordinary Rotarian friends and family. That's what it's all about.
Jewel and I salute all of you...Hike On!
A few of my own thoughts: The Grand Canyon and Phantom Ranch seem to speak many different languages in a very silent and visual way to many different people the world over. Thank you, Rotarians, for my own personal experience and adventure. PDG Ernie and exchange student Eric, it was special for me to socialize with you. Where else can two (three) generations and distant countries begin to know each other? To think, Tom Browning, that you hiked down to Phantom Ranch over 60 years ago with your Father. That sure puts our effort in some perspective. Thank you, Jeff, Nan, and Kent, for your prodding, encouragement, and coaching. Tom B., I will always remember Wanda’s three greeting words to you when we finally surfaced at the Rim: “Tom, you’re grounded!!” Let’s hope not.
Last Wednesday’s “Happy Hour Social Meeting” at the Barrio Brewery was a big hit for the 114 who attended. It was the first Rotary function I can recall where there were more than a smattering of members left when they started to sweep the floors! Kudo’s to Darrell Stewart for organizing the event. The Blue Grass band provided perfect background music. Not too loud and very pleasant to listen to. Based on the initial feedback I have received, we will definitely look into more of this type of event in the future.
If you did not read your e-mails or see the notice on top of the bulletin, please do not come to the DoubleTree this Wednesday. Our meeting will be held at Skyline Country Club. This came about due to a mix-up with the DoubleTree on dates we had scheduled. We scrambled to find an alternative site and are happy Skyline can accommodate us. There have been a number of members who have suggested this as a regular meeting location. So, we can try it out with no obligation and see what everyone thinks. On April 10th we will be having a club assembly and will ask for your opinions about considering Skyline on a more permanent basis so please plan to attend. We will have a great program presented by Lisa Schnebly-Heidinger. Lisa wrote the state’s official centennial book, “Arizona – 100 Years Grand” and will be here to talk about it. She spoke at the district 5500 conference and I have heard rave reviews.
Have a great week and see you Wednesday at Skyline!
Plated California Salad ~ with mixed greens, dried Cranberries, grated Gruyere Cheese, Almond slivers, and sliced Strawberries with honey mustard and balsamicvinaigrette dressings
Herb Crusted London Broil ~ with hollandaise sauce serve with Asparagus and Augratin Potatoes, Assorted Rolls and Butter, Assorted Mini Dessert Cookies and Brownies served family style, Coffee, Decaf or Iced Tea Vegetarian option if reserved by Monday noon:
Vegetable Wellington ~with sauteed Mushrooms, Grilled Squash, Zucchini, Red Bell Peppers, Red Onion, and Goat Cheese wrapped in a Puff Pastry and served with a tri colored Ravioli
Fresh Fruit Plate and Gluten Free meals available by advance reservation only.
Lisa Schnebly Heidinger’s love of Arizona is as deep as her roots; the town of Sedona was named for her great-grandmother, Sedona Schnebly. For more than 30 years, Lisa has been a journalist, finding and recording Arizona’s stories, first as a newspaper and television reporter, then as a columnist and author. She has written seven books about aspects of Arizona, the last one being the history of Make-A-Wish.
Lisa wrote our state’s official centennial book. “Arizona: 100 Years Grand”, a six-year endeavor that prevented our state from being the only one without a centennial book which drew together contributors from photographers to printers. It was voted OneBookAZ by the public in 2012.
This lead to a three-month tour of Arizona libraries, from Duncan to Dewey, Clifton to Concho. Speaking to groups about where we’re headed, she discovered an even deeper desire to be of service to the state. She became a Flinn Brown Civic Leadership Academy fellow and is now in Emerge in order to pursue that goal.
Lisa also serves on the Arizona Centennial Foundation, Arizona Historical Advisory Commission, League of Women Voters, and is precinct committee person in Legislative District 20. She was just appointed to the Arizona Humanities council.
Lisa lives in Phoenix with her husband Tom, son Rye Schnebly, daughter Sedona Lee, and dog Leupp.
OUR MEETING LOCATION FOR APRIL 3RD HAS CHANGED TO THE SKYLINE COUNTRY CLUB LOCATED AT:
5200 E. ST. ANDREWS DRIVE, TUCSON, AZ 85718 ~ TEL: 520-299-1111
PLEASE SEE THE MAP BELOW FOR THE ROUTE TO ENTER THE CLUB. AT THE GATE INFORM THEM YOU ARE THERE FOR THE ROTARY CLUB MEETING. TAKE E. MISSION HILL DRIVE UP TO THE CLUB. ALSO THE LINK BELOW IS DIRECTIONS FROM THE DOUBLETREE HOTEL TO THE SKYLINE COUNTRY CLUB:
Rotary has grown into a global network of 1.2 million men and women. The main goal of our organization is the eradication of polio. The global effort started in 1985. Since then 2.5 billion children have been immunized in 122 countries. Most continents are polio free today. There are only three polio endemic countries left in the world. The three countries that remain are Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Nigeria. Three countries where polio advocates and health professionals are at risk because of political opposition. On March 14, Bill and Melinda Gates and many other national figures from all walks of life gathered on the steps of our Nation's Capitol to underscore their, and Rotary's commitment to this program.
Many other laudable projects are launched every year throughout the world. The Rotaract recognizes outstanding achievements every year. The award winning program this year was announced on March 15, 2013.The Rotaract Outstanding project award was earned by the Mumbai, India Rotaract Club of the Caduceus. a Rotary Club dominated by Doctors. They launched a program called Vision Six by Six. The goal of the project was to screen ten thousand children in India to detect vision problems. Fifteen thousand dollars was raised by a number of small fund raisers such as a standup comedy event.
The president of the club, Pankaj Jethwani said, "We wanted to do something to help the 15 percent of children in government-run, low-resource schools in Mumbai who have undiagnosed refractory error." When the ten thousand students were screened, over 1,500 were diagnosed with vision problems. Glasses were bought and fitted for the children who needed them. Some needed surgery for cataracts or other problems. This was also provided.
In addition to providing medical assistance, the Rotaractors started a teachers training program to ensure that the children would keep wearing the glasses or adhere to their suggested treatment provided by the project. 92 % of the children were still wearing their glasses after two months. Jethwani was obviously pleased by the success of the project when he said, "More children can now see clearly, potentially impacting their future."
Regional Award winners included the Rotaract Club of Cairo Royal, Egypt. This club bought and installed 16 solar power systems in homes in el Heiz, a small village in Egypt. This enabled the villagers to store food properly and provide light for school children to study at night. The club is not through. They are raising money to provide solar power for an additional 350 homes in the region.
The award for Latin America was given to Rotaract Club of the University of Guyana. They established the Victoria Literacy Project. The project focuses on teaching 50 children basic literacy and numbers skills. Rotarians provided supplies and furniture for the classroom used in the project.
The winner for the United States, Canada and the Caribbean region is the Rotaract Club of Yale College, Connecticut. This club partnered with the Rotary Club of Bombay Midtown to launch a vocational training center for a tribal community in Maharashtra, India. This vocational center offers courses to men and women in vocations such as tailoring and weaving.
The winner for Europe was the Rotaract Club of Bari, Italy. They joined hands with UNICEF to help train midwives in Afghanistan to assist mothers in childbirth. Medical supplies were also donated.
Just a few of our Rotarian friends across the planet helping improve the daily quality of life for the needy and promoting world peace and understanding at the same time.
The March 20, 2013 meeting of the Rotary Club of Tucson was called to order by President JIM LUBINSKI. MARCIA KRUMWIEDE gave the invocation and KEVIN WONG led us in a hearty, but respectful, rendition of our National Anthem. DENNIS DRISCOLL introduced our guests and visiting Rotarians. We then honored four Rotarians for birthdays. On a sad note, MAGGIE KOSINSKI (March 3) announced she was moving to South Carolina in the near future. You will be missed, Maggie. Past President JON WANG (March 15) smiled broadly when President Jim mentioned he was a Princeton graduate. As well he should. PAULINE HECHLER (March 21), gave us seven quotes to live by. DOT KRET (March 21), gave a spirited rap in which she expressed her happiness at being a member of our club.
CHARLOTTE HARRIS introduced an impressive new member, BLANTON BELK. Among his many accomplishments is a long association with the Up With People project. Retired commodity broker and present day glass blower, DAVID PASHKOW, conducted the raffle. DARRELL STEWART reminded us the meeting next week will be an evening mixer at Barrio Brewery from 5:30 to 8:00 pm. PAT ZUMBUSCH introduced Mike Fader of the Tucson Padres who gave a short talk emphasizing the Padres schedule and our Car Show Ticket Sales Team's efforts at many of the games. Michelle Fox, of Rotaract, was recognized and gave a short speech outlining fundraising activities by this organization of young professionals. Past President, EMERY BARKER introduced Jim Wells as our speaker. Jim is with the First Tee of Tucson and is a volunteer coach. The First Tee of Tucson is an organization founded in 1997 to promote interest in golf in young people across our nation. Clubs and other equipment are donated and children as young as five can join. Children with special needs are welcomed. In Tucson, the First Tee is located at El Rio on Speedway. The First Tee in Tucson gets 75% of its funding from the Match Play Tournament and the Conquistadores. Jim emphasized that the First Tee is mainly interested in teaching nine core values to the children as they develop their swings.
President JIM LUBINSKI closed the meeting with this quote: "You're only young once, but among golf buddies you can be immature forever."
This week we are trying something a little bit different. When we did our membership survey at the beginning of last year, there was strong interest shown in having regular social meetings such as a happy hour etc. After the success of our holiday party/meeting last December, we decided to try one this spring in lieu of home hospitality. Thus, we are meeting Wednesday evening at the Barrio Brewery downtown. It seems that this is a popular idea as we have filled up the allowed capacity. I hope this turns out to be a great chance for fellowship. For those of us who are fans of home hospitality don’t worry. We plan to bring it back in the fall. Sometimes a little break helps to renew interest and I am sure President-elect Dave will have exciting plans to continue this club tradition. Remember, no lunch meeting Wednesday. So, if you are not attending the happy hour meeting, remember to make-up. Our next regular lunch meeting is April 3rd at the DoubleTree.
April 10th we will be having our next club assembly. Last fall you will recall we did a committee review and update. This format was well received and may be the guide we use for our April meeting. Assemblies are intended to keep members up to date on club business. We will also include a segment on membership. I hope you will all plan to attend and contribute.
Have a great week and hope to see you Wednesday evening!
At our March 20th meeting, Michelle Fox of the Rotaract Club of Tucson, spoke about the Rotaract Club and how these young members are meeting and preparing themselves to be Rotary members. If you know of someone who may be interested in membership, please contact the Club through:
Many members thought that Sharon Kha’s talk was one of the best programs in our Club’s history. Spellbinding!! Interesting!! Inspirational!! Instructional!!
Thanks to Bob Shaff, who recorded Sharon's program and then converted it to the below mp3 format, made this inspirational speech available to those who missed her presentation and also available to those who may want to hear it again. Please feel free to share this with your friends, family and prospective members.
Just click on the link below, which is available until March 25th. Also note, that we will have this program saved to our website in the near future.
Special thanks go out to Jerry Harris, Bob Shaff and the entire car show ticket sales team for getting our 2013 sales effort off to a terrific start at the Tucson Festival of Books. Despite the cool and damp weather on Saturday, the team sold 808 tickets and is now gearing up for the Fourth Avenue Street Fair this weekend. By the end of March we may well have sold around 2,000 tickets! I know that a few feel the car show takes up too much attention and effort and has become a year round event. However, I firmly believe this has been one of the best moves our club has made since I have been a member. We now have a signature event that provides extraordinary publicity and good will for our club. The funds that we raise are significant and make a real difference in our community.
It’s always sad to see our members leave our club. Whether it’s for business or personal reasons, turnover is a fact that we have to deal with. That’s why it is critically important that we continue to bring new member prospects forward to keep our club vital. I challenge all of us to bring at least one prospective member to one of our meetings over the remainder of this Rotary year. Let’s give president-elect Dave a solid start when he takes over in July.
This week we will hear from the folks at “First Tee”. This organization uses golf as a vehicle to do great things for the youth in our community.
Another prompt kickoff to our meeting by President JIM LUBINSKI was followed by a thought-provoking invocation by ASU alumni TED KIRACOFE and our pledge and song (America the Beautiful, with words on the screen – YES!!!) by LESLIE GALLOWAY. Future Board Member DARRELL STEWART introduced our many guests and visitors, pronouncing names flawlessly. And then, Birthday Girls and Boys ELLIE PATTERSON AND DON ROLLINGS were honored for another year of service.
In partnership with CHARLOTTE HARRIS, BOB LOGAN then announced the name of the new Pope of the Catholic Church, and informed us that Italian Cardinal Ernesto Minchella came in a close second in the voting. Having lost the race for Pope, Cardinal Minchella informed us that he plans to remain a member of our Club. Paul Harris Fellowships were then awarded to JIM and CHRIS RONSTADT, CAM MOORE, and JENNIFER HOFFMAN. We ran out of time on the agenda before JIM LUBINSKI was awarded his Paul Harris Fellowship, but BOB LOGAN gave him a pink golf ball, several instructional golf videos, and two gift certificates to Bookman’s to compensate.
In KEVIN WONG’S Sergeant-at-Arms segment, ROGER HARWELL introduced us to three Rotary Scholarship awardees, and we were reminded about our Club’s Evening Mixer at the Barrio Brewery on March 27th and of the upcoming Grand Canyon Hike on March 21st. BOB SHAFF asked for volunteers to help JERRY HARRIS sell Car Show tickets at the Padres/Diamondback Spring Training game on March 17th and at the 4th Avenue Street Fair on March 22-24.
MARY MARTIN introduced our speaker, Mike Czechowski, Annexation Project Manager for the City of Tucson, who spoke on the many benefits of growing the city via annexation rather than waiting for people to move here. How appropriate that Annexation was the theme of today’s meeting. Not only does Tucson want to grow, but so does our Club!! It made me think that maybe one way we could grow is by annexing another Club. If we annex the right Club, we could lower our average age and they could benefit from our many avenues of service and great programs. Everybody wins. What do you think?
President JIM concluded our meeting with a quote from Orville Wright and an optimistic toast, which continues a great tradition in our Club.
The 2013 Tucson Classics Car Show ticket sales effort received a jumpstart due to the efforts of Bookmans and Jim Lubinski. We were invited to sell tickets at this premier event by Bookmans. The event was held on Saturday, March 9, 2013 and Sunday, March 10, 2013. Despite rain and cold winds on Saturday, 808 tickets were sold for the two day Festival. $4,057 were collected in ticket sales and unsolicited donations. Our goal for future years will be 1,000 plus tickets sold. This was our first year to be a part of the Festival of Books.
Bookmans has been a major sponsor of the Tucson Festival of Books since its inception, and Jim Lubinski has been a key part of the Festival. He has served on the Steering Committee as co-chair of the sponsorships for the last 4 years. Bookmans, like the Rotary Club of Tucson, has been a strong supporter of the Reading Seed Program since the club adopted it as our Centennial Project. Bookmans made a 5-year financial pledge to Reading Seed which concluded in 2010. Bookmans also has been corporate sponsor of Literacy Connects via Literacy Volunteers for at least the last 5 years and sponsors their fund raising breakfast during this period. Jim served on the board of Reading Seed from 2004-2010 before it merged with Literacy Connects.
Simply put, Reading Seed, Bookmans and the Rotary Club of Tucson share a strong commitment to improving literacy in Pima County. Our event sales usually kick off with the SAHBA Spring Show. Thanks to the efforts of Chuck Sawyer and Tony Pedroza, we will be selling Car Show Tickets at the 4th Avenue Street Fair on March 22 -March 24. These additions to our schedule will prove to be more valuable next year because the Tucson Padres are going to El Paso in 2014. This year after the SAHBA Spring Show, April 5-7, there will be no more multiple day sales events until September 19, 2013 when we will be at the Greek Festival. The SAHBA Fall Home Show will be from October 4-6. We will probably have one other event to staff in October before the Car Show on October 19, 2013.
After the SAHBA Spring Show in April, we will sell tickets at selected Padres games and at the 39th Annual Rodders Day Show at Casino Del Sol on Saturday, May 4, 2013. This is a great venue for us. Gary Scheer and Tom Strasburg are responsible for getting us involved in this event.
Event sales are work details. They require a lot of patience, a thick skin, physical endurance, and a commitment to our Car Show and the charities it supports. They are also a lot of fun. Bob Shaff and I want as many people involved who are comfortable selling, enjoy selling and like meeting people. We understand not all of our members enjoy ticket sales. But for those of you who do, know that you are always welcome to be a part of the experience. Last year we sold over 6,700 tickets at events. My goal for this year is 8,000 plus. Arnie Jacobsen pointed out that we may be close to the saturation point in event sales. This is why it is so encouraging to know that we have a chance to be involved at the Festival of Books and the 4th Avenue Street Fair. As Arnie states, we are expanding our market base. I hope that means we can carry the message of Reading Seed and our other charities to even more people this year.
If you are interested in selling, Bob Shaff and I would love to have you join us at some of the upcoming events. Of course, if you have not sold before and are shy about trying it, you should know that our job is easier this year than ever. Our thanks go out to Mike Anderson and Tamara McKinney. Mike Anderson not only selected another in a series of excellent cars, but he also has provided us with a one page handout that gives all the specs on the car. Tamara McKinney of Reading Seed provided us with information as to our financial contribution to their program. We raised, through Car Show Sales, $62,000 last year. Through member contributions and Car Show ticket sales, the total contribution from the club is in excess of $500,000 according to Jim Lubinski. Tamara also outlined the contributions of Reading Seed to the community. Bob Shaff converted this information to an attractive handout and a 3x4 sign. With these handouts, along with the beautiful car and our Car Show's impressive reputation, these tickets almost sell themselves! All we need is your help to seal the deal.
The 2013 Tucson Classics Car Show - Event Sales Efforts for 2013
Many golfers who watch golf on TV are somewhat familiar with The First Tee and their national programs due to the many ad spots during the tournaments. However, since most do not watch golf on TV as a regular habit, the message is not getting out as much as we would like. The First Tee of Tucson is doing amazing things in this community and we are anxious to increase our awareness.
We teach Life Lessons using the game of golf as context. For those familiar with golf, you cannot imagine playing without using our Nine Core Values---Honesty, Courtesy, Integrity, Responsibility, Confidence, Perseverance, Judgment, Sportsmanship, and Respect. As we play golf, the coaches weave into the conversations messages about how these same traits apply to living a contributing life.
My greatest pleasure of being a coach is to see the kids grow through our program to become mentors for the younger players.
What a powerful presentation last week from Sharon Kha. She is a wonderful role model for anyone facing difficult challenges in their life. It’s amazing what can be accomplished when we don’t give up. Thank you Sharon for sharing your story with us!
Hopefully this past weekend many of you got a chance to visit the Tucson Festival of Books. While the weather is looking a little bit dicey as I write this, it still promises to be an event that showcases Tucson at its very best. This is the first year we have had our raffle car at the festival. Bob Shaff, Jerry Harris and car show Chair Chuck Sawyer have done a great job setting this up and it should provide a great kick off for our ticket sales. I know many of our members are actively involved in the festival and I would encourage all of you to consider helping out next year. It takes over 1,500 volunteers to put on the festival.
This week we will hear from Mike Czechowski regarding annexation of the unincorporated sections of the Tucson metropolitan area. This has been a hotly debated topic for years, so we look forward to hearing the latest developments from Mike.
Safe travels to President-elect Dave as he heads to South Africa to take advantage of the safari he won at last year’s district conference. Who says that being a Rotary officer doesn’t pay!
Okay, maybe I should be a tad more formal and respectful, but Bob Shaff really doesn't mind being called either PowerPoint Bob or Mr. PowerPoint. Go ahead. He is capable of finding humor in many places, including himself. Bob was president of the Rotary Club of Tucson during the period July 1, 2003 through June 30, 2004. When I interviewed him after a recent meeting, he began by showing me color photographs of his Board of Directors: Dan Chambers, Joni Condit, Roger Harwell, Mark Irvin, Jim Sumwalt, and Frank Zunno. They were a tremendous help during his year of service.
Bob became President only after President Elect, Sid Morse, told then President, John McCaleb that he could not serve due to illness. Bob set down a series of goals for his year in office. His first priority was new member recruitment. He appointed Charlotte Harris and Sean Furrier to head the Membership Committee, and hence 39 new members were added. Bob also changed the meeting times to begin at 11:30 a.m. and end at 1 p.m. This was accomplished after two votes by the membership. The first vote was contested so another vote was held and a two to one majority was counted at each vote. Another accomplishment of Bob's term of service was adding two Spouse's meetings during the year. A Sweetheart Dinner and a Night at the Theatre with dinner were held.
Dues and initiation fees were both raised slightly during his year of service. Bob also gleefully points out that when Lute Olson spoke to the Club during the year, attendance was at an all-time high of 460. Janet Napolitano drew only 285, and Mike Stoops barely cracked the 300 mark. Bob said one of his focus points was to attract more members in the business community.
As expected, one of Bob's favorite memories of his Presidency involves the use of PowerPoint presentations and other visual aids. A weekly feature was the Dashboard presentation, which summarized the past week's statistics including attendance, scholarship cup totals and other vital information. Over $1 million was donated to the Paul Harris Foundation, and $21,000 was raised for the Scholarship fund.
Bob Shaff was born and raised in Phoenix, Arizona. He came to Tucson as a freshman at the University of Arizona. He remembers meeting his wife, Lynda, during his first week at the University. Bob married Lynda after graduating with a degree in Electrical Engineering. He joined the IBM Corporation as a computer salesman, and had 26 successful years with the company. Bob and Lynda moved six times during his IBM career. They raised three sons and now have four grandchildren. Their oldest son, Steve, is the Sports Information Director at Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff. Scott, the middle son, is an Ecologist pursuing a career with the United States Geological Survey Agency, and the youngest, John is a Physician's Assistant.
Bob has been the Ticket Sales Chairman of the Tucson Classics Car Show since its inception. He enjoys racquetball, yoga, hiking in Sabino Canyon, and teaching new Rotarians how to sell Car Show tickets. When I asked, "Why Rotary?” Bob said, "Because that is where my friends are".
Plated Salad ~ Field Greens Salad with Ranch and Red Wine Viniagrette Dressings
Braised Swiss Steak ~ Slow Cooked and Braised Round Steak Smothered in Tomatoes and Onions, Mashed Potatoes with Brown Gravy, Roasted tomatoes, Broccoli and Mushrooms, Rolls and Butter, Doubletree Chocolate Chip Cookies served family style, Coffee, Decaf or Iced Tea
Vegetarian option if reserved in advance - Roasted Vegetable Strudel ~ Rolled and Baked Layers of Filo Dough with Ricotta Cheese, Grilled Vegetables and Roasted Tomato Basil
Fresh Fruit Plate and Gluten Free meals are also available by advance reservation only.
A snazzy blue Corvette convertible greeted us as we entered the Doubletree – yes, it’s Car Show time again! Following the pledge by CLEM LESLIE, the leading of the song by LESLIE GALLOWAY, and the introduction of guests by BOBBY LARSON, JOE PENNINGTON celebrated his birthday by being the first to buy 2013 Car Show tickets, 50 for Reading Seed and 50 for Davis-Monthan. Fellow birthday celebrant TED FORSBERG thanked PAT LENNAN for his strong influence on his 3rd grade experience, all 3 years of it. Excellent raffle prizes prompted lavish spending on tickets, and MARCIA GILL, ROGER HARWELL, KEN FLOWER, YVONNE ERVIN and new member THERESA LIVERZANI-BAKER walked away with prizes. President-elect-elect MARY MARTIN introduced THERESA, executive director of Youth on Their Own, who brings an Italian flair to the Club. DARRELL STEWART threatened us with a $25 fine for the scholarship cups if we miss the March 27th members-only mixer at Barrio Brewery. Keeping the Car Show mojo going, 2013 Chair CHUCK SAWYER shared his vision for a remarkable Car Show: make the show better, easier, more profitable and more fun. He thanked President JIM LUBINSKI and Bookman’s for getting us into the Festival of Books to kick off ticket sales and car procurer MIKE ANDERSON for this year’s beauty. BRUCE TUNZE and BILL MOORE are looking for sponsorship contacts – empty your Rolodex! Resident Club Rapper DOT KRET introduced guest speaker Sharon Kha, who shared her experience with Parkinson’s Disease in an eye-opening and inspirational presentation, ending with a rap that brought the room to its feet. Then President JIM “rapped” it up with our traditional toast.
Do you ever wonder why Phoenix has a superior road system or clean medians? Every year, Pima County is losing out on tens of millions of dollars from the State Shared Revenue. Money that we all pay anyway in Highway User Revenue Funds, Vehicle License Tax, State Sales tax and State Income tax. Annexation into an incorporated city can bring that money back to our region.
Mike Czechowski has worked for the City of Tucson since October 2003. Mike started with the City in the Community Development Department, where he managed the federal “HOME Program”. Past projects of this program included the MLK Apartments, 1 North Fifth, Ghost Ranch Lodge, Casitas on East Broadway, Mesquite Homes on Pantano, Corazon Del Pueblo, and Skyview Terrace. He also administered the “Housing and Urban Development Neighborhood Stabilization Program” from its inception in 2009 until June 2012. With a budget in excess of $13 million, this specific program was created to address the high foreclosure crisis in Tucson and Pima County. Mike was also involved in the “Below Market Interest Rate Loan Program” which provided low income homeowners funding for much needed home repairs.
Upon recommendation from Chris Kaselemis, the Economic Initiatives Program Director, he came to the City Manager’s office in July 2012 as the Annexation Project Manager.
Mike is a Tucson native, attending Canyon Del Oro High School, Pima Community College and the University of Arizona. His diverse background includes restaurant management, construction project management and Real Estate.
Some good news to report, our efforts to recruit new members appear to be baring fruit. We have 10 new member prospects in various stages of the approval process. This is more than we have added for the first 7 months of our Rotary year. The hard work being done by all of you to bring new prospective members in is paying off. If we do not lose any members this month, we may be at a net gain from where we started the year. Kudos to all and keep up the good work! Gary Hirsch and his team are making progress on our entire membership process and hope to have a revised process to present to the club in the next couple of months.
As I write this, our future leaders, Dave Gallaher – PE and Mary Martin – PEE, are attending PETs training in Phoenix. For those of you not familiar with PETS, it is the required training for club presidents, secretaries, treasurers and district officers. In Arizona, it is a combined effort put on by our state’s three districts. The 2 day conclave provides great training and also gives the incoming officers a chance to meet their cohorts at the other clubs in Arizona. At this point, I know Dave is getting into the super planning mode and Mary is just getting an idea of what will be in store for her next year. On behalf of the club, know that you have our full support and we look forward to your leadership over the next 2 years.
This week we will hear from Sharon Kha about Parkinson’s disease with a program entitled “Changing Your Brain”. Truly a devastating disease. We look forward to hearing about the prospects for medical advances in the fight to defeat Parkinson’s.
I wish every Rotarian had the opportunity to sit down and talk with Ken Flower, President of Arizona Party Rental. Following a short tour of the impressive showroom and facilities on E. Speedway Blvd, Ken treated me to stories of his teen-age years while growing up in Scarsdale, New York. As the son of Ken Flower, an All-American basketball player from USC and later NFL executive, Ken (Kenny) spent summers “shagging punts” and working as a public relations aide for the LA Rams at their training camp in Fullerton. Ken speaks of head coach Chuck Knox, legendary Ram owner Carroll Rosenbloom, and driving around special guests like Warren Beatty to football practices. Ken even had the job of lighting Jonathan Winters‘ cigars. In his late teen years, Ken also worked on Broadway Musicals where he assisted Milton Berle and Florence Henderson. It was a natural for Ken to identify with the “performing” arts. Early in his career he was in Sales and Marketing in the SF Bay area. Ken’s corporate world was in radio broadcasting and station management, which brought Ken to Tucson in 2002 with Clear Channel Broadcasting. Ken desired more business challenge and closer contact with his community.
Past Rotary President Bob Shaff is effusive in praise: “Ken and Carrie Flower and their company, Arizona Party Rental, are one of Tucson’s great small-business success stories. With absolutely no experience in the rental business (their background was in the radio and marketing businesses), Ken and Carrie purchased Arizona Party Rental in 2003. Their creativity, hard work, and emphasis on remarkable customer service have grown their company into the premier party rental and special events company in Southern Arizona—and, in all of Arizona, in my opinion…. So, in summary, Ken Flower is a great person to party with”!!
Past President Marianne Freitas volunteers: "Ken and his staff have provided excellent service and made a significant contribution to the success of the Tucson Classics Car Show from the very start. It helps when a fellow Rotarian is able to bring the experience that Arizona Party Rental has developed over the many years to a relatively new venture like the TCCS. We have created a special relationship which has been beneficial to all of us."
Ken Flower joined the Rotary Club of Tucson in 2004, sponsored by Bob Webb. He is passionate about Rotary’s involvement with literacy in Southern Arizona. He mentioned Jim Murphy, Joe Nevin and Suzanne Lawder when I asked him about his Rotary Moment— when he knew for a fact he was in the right organization. It was the Reading Seed Open House in 2005 when “the light went on.”
Joe: “The dedication of Reading Seed at the Goodwill Industries facilities was a memorable day. Ken and his capable team arrived early in the morning. Large tents were erected plus tables and chairs were set. Many Rotarians, guests and friends enjoyed the dedication plus tours and food. As evening darkness approached, Ken and staff were back on duty. With great teamwork the trucks were loaded and the Goodwill parking lot was back to normal. YES!. It was another memorable day of what it means to be a member of the RCoT.”
Ken, when asked whom he considered a “mentor” in life, did not hesitate in answering: “My brother Jeffery, who died of a brain tumor in 1991.” Jeffrey may be the reason for Ken’s strong family and community commitment.
Ken is a Director on the Board of The Centurions—the group of Tucson leaders dedicated to the mission of Carondelet St. Mary’s Hospital. Ken and Carrie speak proudly of their children, Lauren and Billy. Lauren, 17, presently lives in Houston while training and performing with the Houston Ballet Company; Billy, 21, the 2009 Arizona state high school golf champion from Catalina Foothills, is now a junior on the Grand Canyon University golf team.
Ken Flower is a “behind the scenes” type of contributor who wants to use his organizational and communication skills to make a positive difference in his community. His advice to fellow Rotarians: “Excel at something you are passionate about and never underestimate the importance of casual conversation.”
Plated Salad ~ Crisp Garden Salad with Ranch and Balsamic Dressings
White BBQ Chicken ~ Chicken Breast in Chef's White BBQ Sauce, Roasted Wedge Potatoes, Stir-Fried Vegetables, Rolls and Butter, Doubletree Chocolate Chip Cookies served family style, Coffee, Decaf or Iced Tea
Vegetarian option if reserved in advance ~ Portabella Mushroom Napoleon ~ Layers of Grilled Portabella Mushrooms with a Roasted Corn Spicy Salsa and Topped with Fresh Herbs
Fresh Fruit Plate and Gluten Free meals are also available by advance reservation only.
The Rotary Club of Tucson had a rousing meeting (2/27/13) on many facets of information capture and sharing. JACK PARRIS began the sharing with a history of the 4 way test and then launched into the invocation. LESLIE GALLOWAY led us in the pledge of allegiance and a rendition of Yankee Doodle. It is rumored that Yankee Doodle was a British song to make fun of the colonist but because of the catchy tune, it stuck in American history.
The head table was hosted by JIM LUBINSKI and had Capt. David Azuelo with two of his staff members, along with Richard Nassi, PAT ZUMBUSCH, EMERY BARKER and PETER AKMAJIAN. JILL MADDEN and RICK WELCH were recognized for their trips around the sun. IRENE DECKER is in our thoughts and prayers and we wish her a speedy recovery. Notes were collected to pass her way. KEVIN WONG stepped in to introduce guests and visiting Rotarians. We thank each guest for sharing their lunch hour with us. Hirsch Shoes was in the local rag again and fined accordingly. $100 was collected for charity and posterity. ROGER HARWELL introduced Dana Dobbins, who is a Rotary scholarship recipient for the last three years. The program gives $2,000 a year to 12 students at the Uof A and $800 to a student at PCC. The cups on the table make a big difference in many young people’s lives.
JIM visited the Phoenix 100 Rotary Club. There seems to be some sibling rivalry within our esteemed clubs. JIM is formulating plans for a contest between our clubs. It will be based on attendance, member growth and giving to Rotary International and possibly the proximity to Mexico. GARY HIRSCH reminded folks of the speed dating session (R date) on 3/7/13 at the Viscount Hotel for business networking. Register before 3/1/13 to get in free. The purpose is to let Rotary members do business with Rotary members. BOB SHAFF has a great deal on tickets to the Dback game on 3/17 starting at 1:05 (St. Patrick’s Day).
EMERY BARKER did a wonderful job of introducing his long time friend and colleague, PETER AKMAJIAN, who among other things is the newest member of our club. He has an outstanding set of credentials and career successes in the law arena. The official rowdy table has lost a member to the Tubac Club, but will strive to keep their reputation in tack, regardless of who’s who.
PAT ZUMBUSCH introduced Captain David Azuelo of the Tucson Police Department. His topic was on ‘Information sharing and Interoperability”. In less than a year, a 12 year project will be complete. Essentially all the emergency responders will be able to communicate with each other. COPLINK was conceived in an artificial intelligence lab at the U of A and has grown to become a commercially viable product purchased by IBM. The essence is the ability to link many scraps and pieces of information together to form a composite which can be used to track down the bad guys. Linking the Tucson data warehouse to the western half of the US has proved to provide a much enhanced view of the criminal element moving through and around Tucson. Actionable information is paramount in good police work and it looks like the Tucson Police Department is playing a leading role in this endeavor. Captain Azuelo did an outstanding job of conveying the scope of the projects and gave excellent real world examples. Thank you for your service and commitment.
With a lifted glass of ice tea, these words were contemplated- “Success does not consist in never making blunders, but in never making the same one a second time.” JIM LUBINSKI credited Josh Billings for the quote.
NINETY Rotarian cyclists from clubs throughout the United States took part in El Tour de Tucson on 17 November in Arizona, raising more than $375,000 for polio eradication.
RI General Secretary John Hewko and his wife, Marga, were among 9,000 riders from around the world who hit the pavement for a charity bike ride sponsored by the University Medical Center in Tucson, completing 42, 60, 85, or 111 miles. The Hewkos exceeded their goal of $111,000 in pledges, raising more than $200,000 for the ride.
Rotarians have been taking part in the event since 2009, when End Polio Now was designated an official beneficiary of the race, allowing Rotary to enroll cyclists to gather pledges for the campaign. In that first year, 27 cyclists raised $35,000. The number has grown steadily ever since.
The festivities included a dinner the night before the ride. Rotarians also staffed a water station along the route, and a booth at the finish line where cyclists could gather and learn more about Rotary and polio eradication.
What does Rap music have to do with Parkinson’s disease? It could be part of the process of changing the very structure of the brain when the brain has been damaged from trauma or disease. One doctor refers to Parkinson’s as “the poster child for mind over matter” because it seems so responsive to the exercise of will power. Ms. Kha describes her battle with Parkinson’s Disease and a surprising outcome.
Biography of Sharon Kha
Sharon (Heinrichs) Kha was born in Vancouver, British Colombia on Feb. 24, 1944, the daughter of a Mennonite minister. She graduated from Bethel College with a Bachelor’s degree in English Literature and earned a MA from University of Texas El Paso, also in English Literature. She moved to Tucson in 1971.
Ms. Kha worked for KGUN TV as a news reporter and was the spokesperson for the University of Arizona for 22 years for Presidents Henry Koffler, Manuel Pacheco and Pete Likins. She was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease in 2003.
Last Friday, President-elect Dave, Dorinna and I attended the Phoenix 100 meeting and then met with their president, president-elect and executive director for several hours after. It was a very productive visit. Our intent was to share how our club operates and discuss common challenges facing both clubs. In addition to these topics, we wanted to explore ways in which our clubs could work together in the future. Prior to our departure, past president Bob Shaff dug up an old trophy that used to travel between the clubs for an attendance competition. We have held this since it was last awarded in 2003 and it has a history dating back to 1930. It sparked a lot of interest at the meeting so we have agreed to expand on the original idea and create our own “Territorial Cup” competition between the clubs. The details have not been firmly established yet but, the award will likely be based upon a combined group of performance areas including, attendance, membership growth and annual RI giving. We will start this off with the new Rotary year under President-elect Dave. More details to follow.
The Phoenix 100 club also agreed to help fund our Bolivia sanitation project. This is hopefully the first step in our clubs working together. They will be celebrating their centennial next year and are embarking on a state wide Rotary project addressing hunger. Their hope is that clubs from all over the state will join them as their anniversary will mark 100 years of Rotary in Arizona. A little bit of trivia, the “100” in their club name is significant. They were the 100th club chartered. Members from their club will be promoting this project at one of our future meetings. This will be a great chance to do a lot of good state wide and give Rotary significant exposure.
This week join us as David Azuelo will address emergency preparedness. Have a great week and see you Wednesday!
Captain Azuelo is the Information Sharing (CopLink) Node Administrator for AzLink, an information sharing consortium of Arizona law enforcement agencies using CopLink technology to leverage information sharing capabilities statewide and within the larger Southwest border region. As the administrator, he serves 22 Southern Arizona agencies, managing the dissemination of both criminal and intelligence related information, as well as all-hazards criminal and border related activity in Southern Arizona. Having recently expanded its footprint, AzLink is presently connected to similar CopLink Nodes in California, Oregon, Colorado and Nevada, and will soon be socializing with Texas and New Mexico to connect all contiguous counties sharing a border between the United States and Mexico. AzLink has been identified as a “best practice” by the Intelligence and Analysis Office at the Department of Homeland Security.
I have had the pleasure of sitting next to Stan Cramer (who joined our club April 8, of 2010) on several occasions. I asked Stan what he did for a living and he told me he was in the automotive business. It turns out that Stan was being very modest and when I probed a little further, I found that Stan owned an Oldsmobile, Honda, Triumph dealership and the Budget Rent a Car by Harrisburg International Airport, in Middletown, PA. Well Stan began to weave a story and I sat in awe and listened as Stan told me about how his father had gotten started in Pennsylvania having a car dealership in Steelton, PA across a canal from the steel mill. Well the business moved and evolved into the Budget Rent A Car. Stan began to pursue the airport parking business before the airport industry deregulated and he catered to travel agents initially offering them free parking. He said that his son now is running the business and has branched off into not only car rental, but car sales, airport parking and auto repairs and a body shop. Stan travels back east periodically to call on the travel agents and maintain a relationship with them.
The conversation turned to his son Solomon and all of a sudden his facial features became very animated and his voice became exuberant and he told me the story about how his son, Solomon, who is an actuary started out as an entrepreneur. Solomon, at age 15 asked his mother for $1,000 of his Bar Mitzvah money to invest. His mother said you should ask your Dad. Stan saw this as an opportunity for his son to learn the value of a dollar and asked his son what he planned to do with the money. Solomon told his Dad that he wanted to invest in and sell sports memorabilia. Stan became even more animated as he told the story about how Solomon took the initial investment of $1,000 and turned it into $20 million in sales of sports memorabilia….that's right $20 million in 10 years. You could see Stan’s’ smile beamed from ear to ear as he recounted the story of his son, Solomon.
I asked Stan as to why he joined Rotary and he told me it was to meet people. So if you get a chance sit next to Stan at Rotary, and ask him about his son. You will be able to experience for yourself this pride that this Dad showed for his son. Incidentally this story is an abbreviated version of everything that Stan told me that day.
It was an unusual meeting last Wednesday. We sat in a nice, warm room and when someone opened the doors we looked out at snow falling from the passing blizzard while we nibbled world-class chocolate! Our omnipotent leader, JIM LUBINSKI, brought the gavel down to open the meeting at 12:03. MIKE ORCUTT gave the invocation and LESLIE GALLOWAY led us with the pledge to the flag and "The Star Spangled Banner". In Facebook jargon I "Like" it when the song is flashed on the screen as well as "Like" when pictures of our members, who are participants in the day's program, show. JOHN COUSINS introduced our guests and a few visiting Rotarians. The program allowed one minute for our lone Birthday celebration. KEN LIGHT directs community and Social Services for the Jewish Community Center and plays golf, racquetball and rides his bike in the mountains. KEN joined Rotary in '91. Without a blare of trumpets, ELLIE PATTERSON introduced our newest, full-fledged Rotarian, LINDSAY GANIN. She's the retail relations manager for Compass Bank. Besides banking deposits, loans and special accounts, ask Lindsay about fly fishing, hiking and cooking. KEVIN WONG, Sergeant-at-Arms, then nailed JEFF RONSTADT and LEE AITKIN each for one hundred bucks for their notable deeds. DAVE GALLAHER announced the World Peace Forum for District 5500; MARCIA KRUMWIEDE invited Rotarians to the Book Cleaning Project; and LISA FOGEL announced the next Wine Tasting Committee Meeting. The chocolate part of the program came after DAVID PASHKOW introduced Barbara Fox, president of Chocolate Fox Foundation. Her company manufactures artisan chocolates and donates 100% of the profits to animal charities. In an interesting program, Barbara tracked her venture from software guru at Apple Macintosh Microsoft to chocolatier at Chocolate Fox Foundation. A few dressed for the current rodeo festivities. DAN GUARE wore his best two liter Stetson. He said it was too windy for his 10-gallon cowboy hat. JON WANG looked spiffy in his Buffalo Bill Ringmaster attire. KANDIE VACTOR, scuba diver, sparkled in her beautiful turquoise and silver rings, bracelets and necklace. The meeting ended when JIM lowered the gavel after his toast, credited to Samuel Johnson, "Nothing will ever be attempted if all possible objections must first be overcome."
Plated Salad ~ Mixed Greens with Ranch and Raspberry Viniagrette Dressings
Flank Steak ~ Marinated and Cooked at High Heat, served with Demi-Glace, Mashed Potatoes, Cinnamon and Honey Glazed Carrots, Rolls and Butter, Doubletree Chocolate Chip Cookies served family style, Coffee, Decaf or Iced Tea
Vegetarian option if reserved in advance Pinenut and Spinach Stuffed Acorn Squash ~ Roasted Acorn Squash Stuffed with Zucchini, Yellow Squash, Pinenuts, Spinach, Green Onions, Breadcrumbs and Danish Blue Cheese, served with Vegetable Broth
Fresh Fruit Plate and Gluten Free meals are also available by advance reservation only.
This is probably Tucson’s biggest showcase week each year. We have the Rodeo, Match Play and professional soccer all happening this week. These events provide Tucson a large window to the world. Many people will be in town for these events supporting our local businesses. It’s important that we support these events as they are vital to our local economy. Let’s make sure we all do our best to showcase all that our community has to offer.
This week should be a good one for all of you chocolate lovers. If you have not OD’d from Valentine’s Day, come hear Barbara Fox, President of the Chocolate Fox Foundation, present “Software Engineer to Chocolatier”. Maybe she will have some free samples???
Your board continues to work on revamping our membership process. Gary Hirsch has formed a “disappearing task force” that will be presenting recommendations to the board next month. We have had some good luck with new members lately. Gary and his team want to build on that momentum and streamline the entire process. I hope to be able to report to all of you on the task force’s recommendations in April.
Your PE, Dave Gallaher, your executive director, Dorinna York and I will be heading up to Phoenix on Friday to attend the Phoenix 100’s meeting. After their regular meeting we will be meeting with their team to compare notes and discuss ways the two clubs may be able to work together in the future. Many of you know that they are our parent club and are the only club larger than ours in Arizona. We look forward to a productive visit.
This year in Rotary, our international theme for 2012/2013 is PEACE THROUGH SERVICE. All District Governors around the world were encouraged to hold their own Peace Forum for their District’s membership. This Saturday, February 23, District 5500 will hold its Peace Forum at the Wheeler Taft Abbett Library (7800 W Schisler Drive) which is located at the southeast corner of Silverbell and Cortaro in Marana. Several of the speakers are Rotary Peace Scholars and some of the topics and panel discussions include: Rotary Peace Centers and the role they play in promoting peace; Rotary Foundation area of focusing on peace and conflict resolution and how your club can develop and execute projects; and finally, what peace means to my Rotary Club and community. Please consider attending this historic event and you can register at www.rotaryd5500.org. The cost is $20. If you have any questions, give Dave Gallaher a call at 907-4983.
WORLD PEACE FORUM FOR DISTRICT 5500 FEB. 23 (10:30AM-02:30PM)
PRESIDENT JIM opened the meeting and then KEN TUCKER gave the invocation the Boy Scouts use at Philmont, the National Scout Camp. It was brief, allowing the young scouts to start eating without delay! We waited to chow-down until we recited the Pledge of Allegiance and sang “America the Beautiful.” BRUCE TUNZE introduced some 15 guests, with one from England, recognized as coming the farthest. ROBERT O’BRIEN was our lone birthday celebrant! DAVE GALLAHER substituted for BOB LOGAN and MARIANNE FRIETAS pinned our latest Paul Harris Fellows. ALLYN BULZOMI made his wife, Susan, a PHF and SUSAN MOORE VAULT had DON RAWLINGS substitute for her husband Frank, who received his PHF. KANDIE VACTOR made a Happy Jackson announcement recommending a landscaper. GARY HIRSCH announced a District 5500 Business Network Event, to be held at the Viscount Suites at 5pm on March 7. FREE if you sign up by March 1st. MARCIA KRUMWIEDE asked for volunteers to clean books at the Reading Seed offices this Saturday from 9am-Noon. VICKIE JACOBS bestowed “Blue” badges to YVONNE ERVIN, LINDSAY GANIN, and JILL MADDEN. DARRELL STEWART announced that LISA FOGLE is the new Wine Committee Chair. Dr. Len Jessup, Dean of the UA’s Eller College of Business, updated us on the programs the College is involved in that will give back to the community and the state. He spoke of where they go next; how they are positioning to attract and retain good faculty; and the newest program - Tech Launch - to inspire new technology businesses, new entrepreneurial research, and spin out businesses that will hopefully remain in Arizona. Several of the University’s departments will collaborate to ensure the program’s success. JIM LUBINSKI concluded our meeting with the Valentine toast: “Money can’t buy love, but it does improve your bargaining position!”
Stub Ashcraft, Rotarian of 55 years and President of the Rotary Club of Tucson, 1972-73, who died at age 89 in 2008, was inducted into the University of Arizona Sports Hall of Fame in November 2012. Our “Stub” was the “ultimate” Wildcat: former UA football letterman, UA journalism major, UA Athletic Events and Facilities Coordinator, 1965-82, and Army Major serving in the South Pacific in WWII.
Rotarians will enjoy “googling” Stub Ashcraft and reading Mike Chesnick’s excellent and revealing article on Stub.
Dave Ashcraft, Stub’s second of four children, volunteered the following Rotary comments on his father:
Rotary was central to his life. It sponsored him to attend the first National Jamboree in Washington, D.C., for the Boy Scouts of America, and he always credited Rotary for helping to get him on the right track.
I have such fond memories of the 50’s and 60’s when we would get to go to the Rotary family luncheons at the Pioneer Hotel. I also recall secretly taking a contingent of the U of A Marching Band to play for the Change of Administration Luncheon when Dad became president.
Dad always said that there were "members of Rotary" and that "there were Rotarians." He epitomized the latter. Dad believed in networking and community, and he placed his fellow Rotarians at the top of his list. My siblings and I knew the Four-Way Test perhaps before we knew our address. Dad constantly instilled the values of Rotary including truth, fairness, goodwill and friendships in each of his children and grandchildren. That is an important legacy.
Stub’s legacy will be continued through his impressive family. Jane Ashcraft, Stub’s wife, is vibrant, of sound mind and still rooting for UA at the age of 92 years. Dave describes his Mother, a Mills College grad, as “sort of a renaissance woman — a former leatherworker, silversmith and horsewoman who loves the arts.”
Son Dave and Dave’s wife Joan contribute to the cultural vitality of Tucson through the Arts. Dr. Joan Ashcraft is Director of Fine Arts with the TUSD and co-creator of Opening Minds through the Arts (OMA), an innovative approach to learning using the arts to teach math, reading and writing. OMA’s arts integration model is grounded in brain-based research, multi-intelligence learning and the neurological development of children.
Grandson Chris, also a Rotarian, is Executive Director of the Community Performance and Arts Center Foundation in Green Valley. Grandson Tim, a graduate of West Point and an Army aviator, has recently been redeployed for his second tour in Afghanistan.
Tim’s three month-old daughter, Adeline Claire—the newest Ashcraft and named Claire in honor of her Great Grand Dad Clarence-- complements her two cousins, Andrew and Ryan.
How our Rotarians remember Stub:
Frank Zunno: Stub was one of the vanishing breed—generous, patriotic, civic minded with absolute integrity.
Clarke Duncan: Stub and I were both on Okinawa in WWII. I only wish he could have accompanied me back to Washington, D.C., last October with the Honor Flight of WWII veterans. Stub deserves every accolade he is given.
Past President Arnie Jacobsen: Truly, I would term him as the heartbeat of our club.
Rotarians will always be proud to be associated with Stub Ashcraft.
Barbara Fox, President of Chocolate Fox Foundation, worked closely with both Steve Jobs and Bill Gates and in the software industry for thirty-five years. After retiring from Microsoft in 2004, she followed her former boss and Microsoft CTO (Nathan Mhyrvold) into his new company, Intellectual Ventures.
“IV” is both admired as an “invention powerhouse” and reviled as a “patent troll.” A less controversial endeavor within the company, however, is The Cooking Lab, a food-research group that recently published "Modernist Cuisine," a six-volume book set on the subject. Given a culture wherein intellectual property and culinary pursuits claim equal respect, it was a natural for a microbiology/chemistry undergrad turned software patent expert witness to launch an artisan chocolate company.
In this talk, Barbara Fox describes her career journey from Silicon Valley engineering manager to master chocolatier. She’ll also explain The Chocolate Fox, as a business, a non-profit, a donor, and an employer in Tucson. And yes, there will be Chocolate Fox chocolate to sample!
Plated Salad - Mixed Greens with Ranch and Balsamic Vinegarette Dressings
Hot and Not Too Spicy Schezuan Noodles ~ Schezuan Oriental Noodles with Fresh Vegetables and Julienne Chicken, Rolls and Butter, Doubletree Chocolate Chip Cookies served family style, Coffee, Decaf or Iced Tea
Vegetarian option if reserved in advance: Schezuan Noodles ~ Schezuan Oriental Noodles with Fresh Vegetables
Fresh Fruit Plate and Gluten Free meals are also available by advance reservation only
This week we are back at the DoubleTree but, be prepared for parking challenges as the west parking area may still have tents from the Gem Show in place. It was great to be able to honor long time member Sonny Solot at our meeting last week. Sonny we wish you the best and hope to see you occasionally at future meetings.
I have had some feedback on the e-mails we are sending out for members who have missed our weekly meeting. These e-mails are intended to address several important issues. First, we missed you! Second, provide a brief overview of what you missed and to encourage you to make-up for the missed meeting. And third, to help keep Rotary on your radar.
This week we will hear from Dr. Leonard Jessup, Dean of the Eller College of Management at the University of Arizona. Dr. Jessup will be discussing how the College is contributing to the development of the Sun Corridor region as well as how the school is preparing the next generation of global business leaders. I heard Dr. Jessup give this same presentation to a group of business leaders several months ago and can assure you it is a program you will not want to miss.
Plated Salad ~ Mixed Greens with Ranch and Herb Vinegarette dressings
Braised Boneless Beef Ribs ~ slow cooked and braised with house made Spice Rub and Sauce, Oven Browned Potatoes, Chef's Roasted Fresh Seasonal Vegetables, Rolls and Butter, Doubletree Chocolate Chip Cookies served family style, Coffee, Decaf or Iced Tea.
Vegetarian option if reserved in advance: Oven Baked Polenta Medallions with Fresh Tomato and Mushroom Sauce
Fresh Fruit Plate and Gluten Free meals are also available by advance reservation only.
We gathered at the Radisson on Speedway as the Gem and Mineral Show displaced us from our normal DoubleTree meeting spot. PRESIDENT JIM LUBINSKI called the meeting to order by introducing TED KIRACOFE (boo ASU!!) who did the Invocation. Next JUDY CLINCO led us in the pledge and song. Then it was time for fellowship and a chicken lunch "Radisson style" before JEFF RONSTADT had a tricky time with the introductions of guests and visiting Rotarians. Our birthday boys for the week, TIM PUNTENNEY, PETE RAGUZIN and the recently retired DON CLARK, were up next. Those 3 have a combined total of almost 91 years of being Rotarians!!! After that, PRES JIM made a very special Member Emeritus presentation to SONNY SOLOT whose wife and daughter were there to join our whole club in giving him a standing ovation. We love you SONNY! Sergeant at Arms KEVIN WONG was back with us this week for some announcements. First he thanked DAVE PASHKOW for filling in for him last week. Then CAMERON MOORE made a limited time offer regarding Bulletin/Website sponsorships. Lastly, PRES JIM reminded us to check our inboxes for the first email monthly billing. After that YVONNE ERVIN introduced the speaker, DR. KAREN SEAT, who is the Associate Professor and Director of the U of A Religious Studies Program. Her topic was "The Role of Religion in American Politics", which garnered quite a few questions at the end. PRES JIM closed the meeting with a quote from Yogi Berra - "If you don't know where you are going, you'll wind up some place else". With that, the meeting ended and we all went some place else. :-)
Hal and Larry Adamson's ties to Rotary go all the way back to 1925 when their father, Harold, was recruited by some of the founding members to join the Rotary Club of Tucson. The club had received its charter in 1921 and Harold Adamson had founded Baum and Adamson, a retail tire business, in 1923. Hal went into the family business and stayed until 1994 when he retired. Larry became a lawyer and still has an active practice specializing in Estates and Trusts. In the early days, the family business went beyond selling automobile tires. They expanded their business supplying mines with specialty tires and corrosion resistant rubber products to help line the many tanks in the Arizona mining industry. Harold remained active in Rotary for many years and his sons followed him into the club.
Hal joined the club in 1956 and Larry joined in 1971. Hal was President in 1961-62. During his term, he redesigned the membership badge to reflect our local character by including cactus and mountains on the face of the badges. He also started the tradition of passing Scholarship Cups at the meetings. The expected donation at the time was a quarter. Hal enjoys pointing out to his brother that active membership was at 300 during his term of office and shrunk to 295 during Larry's Presidency.
Larry was President during 1985 and 1986. He points with pride at a Party-Auction the Club hosted that year. Under the direction of Mike Anderson, over $34,000 was raised. Larry says this was a landmark event since it was the most ambitious fundraising effort to date by the Club. Also during his term, Larry discovered a transplanted member from Chicago, Leland Case, who had never achieved a Paul Harris Fellow during his many years of membership. Larry promptly fined him $1,000 and the fine was paid. Larry also prides himself on many other innovative ways he found to raise money through fines.
Hal points with pride to the fact that he maintained perfect attendance for 38 years and his brother only could muster 12 years of perfect attendance. Hal says the main difference in the Club now compared to the club during the fifties is that in the fifties there were more social activities. This has gradually changed over the years, the emphasis of the Club shifted to community service projects. Larry has been to 14 Rotary International Conventions. Both still are engaged in Rotary Activities. Hal was instrumental in the shaping and founding of the Tucson Classic Car Show and remains active in the administration of the Show. When asked what attracted them to Rotary, both agreed that the Rotary Club of Tucson was the premier service club in Southern Arizona in the 1950's and onward. In their opinion, our Club had the best and the brightest when they joined and feel that this has not changed over the years.
Eller College of Management, University of Arizona
Len Jessup – Dean, Professor of Entrepreneurship and Innovation, and Halle Chair in Leadership – joined his alma mater, the University of Arizona’s Eller College of Management, in May 2011.
In 2000, Jessup was recruited from the Kelley School of Business at Indiana University to head the Department of MIS at Washington State University (WSU). During more than a decade at WSU, he served in a variety of leadership roles, including Dean of the College of Business, Vice President of University Development, and President of the WSU Foundation. His most recent roles were Chair of the Department of Entrepreneurship and Information Systems and Director of the Center for Entrepreneurial Studies.
In his role at the WSU Foundation, Jessup led the transformation of the university’s fundraising efforts, which resulted in doubling its overall fundraising totals and achieving record numbers of donors. During his tenure, the university received a commitment for the largest gift in its history and initiated its largest comprehensive campaign.
Jessup served as Dean of the College of Business at WSU and Philip L. Kays Distinguished Professor in Management Information Systems from 2002-2005. As Dean, he led a complete, two-year reengineering of the business program which resulted in the successful AACSB reaccreditation of the College in Spring 2004. Under his leadership, the College of Business embarked on a new strategic plan to lead a University-wide Entrepreneurship and Innovation Initiative, driven by the College of Business and its nationally-recognized entrepreneurship program.
The Bead and Gem Show will hinder our PARKING again this week at the Doubletree. The big tent will be located on the West parking lot and therefore will not be available to use for parking. Other parking options to utilize will be the lot South of the hotel main entrance or the East lot behind the ballroom. We are asking that you please plan ahead for our February 13th meeting.
Parking at the Doubletree - January 30 thru February 13
JIM LUBINSKI opened the meeting and introduced PAULINE HECHLER for the invocation. Leading the pledge and song was LESLIE GALLOWAY, who brought down the house with "This Land is Your Land". The words to the song were on the screen, which helped many of us to sing the right words. A moment of silence was given for BOBBY LARSON'S mother, who passed last week. Members: DON'T FORGET THE SCHOLARSHIP CUPS!! STACIA DECKER, a busy new member, introduced a number of guests and visiting Rotarians. President Elect, DAVE GALLAHER, introduced new member KEITH WIEGAND, who manages Clyde Wanslee - Ugly but Honest Car Dealership. DAVE GALLAHER has personally bought 16 cars from KEITH. Welcome KEITH!
DAVE "Car Show Corvette Driver" PASHKOW, substituted for absent Sergeant at Arms, KEVIN "Always Right" WONG. DAVE introduced busy new member BILL MOORE. BILL in turn introduced car show Co-Chair MARIANNE FRIETAS and TOM STRASBURG. Our super team this year set a new record of $119,000. A check was presented to Debbie Conover, Development Officer and Debbie Adams, Chief Operating Officer of Pima Council on Aging --$12,500 for a total of $25,000. A check for $12,500 to Kelly Fryer, Executive Director, YWCA and CHERYL HOUSE Board Member, to the YWCA for a total of $25,000, and a check to Reading Seed for $62,814.23 was presented to Betty Stauffer, Executive Director, Literacy Connects (Parent company). Now in our 7th year, we have donated $346,124.19 to Reading Seed.
JUDY KEAGY urged us to support Lineweaver School, LOVE OF READING WEEK. Contact JUDY at 297-4533 to volunteer to read in the classroom. MARCIA KRUMWIEDE and JOHN HARLOW reported on the Work Project Food Bank. Within three hours of work, 75,000 pounds of food was collected. Thanks to all members who helped in the great endeavor. CAMERON MOORE informed members of the sponsorship program available to promote their business. The business is promoted through the Club’s website and also projected on the weekly announcements at the club meetings. Ask CAMERON for a form if you are interested.
President JIM LUBINSKI announced that next week’s meeting will be held at the Radisson Suites on Speedway Blvd. JIM also reminded us to notify the Rotary Office if you changed your email address. Monthly Billings will now be sent via email to all members.
Vivacious DOT KRET introduced our guest speakers, Kathy Rau, Executive Director of Southern Arizona Children’s Advocacy Center, who spoke on "Abuse Stops and Healing Begins" and Susie Huhn, Executive Director of Casa de los Ninos, who spoke on "Child Abuse Lasts a Lifetime”. Kathy and Susie both left us with hope for our abused children. Questions were answered such as: Should I tell? Am I in trouble? It was reported that this abuse costs Arizona $1.6 billion. 40 years of experience of Prevention and Treatment by Casa and the Arizona Advocacy Center is helping to reduce abuse and future problems for our precious children.
President JIM closed out the meeting with a toast from a Danish Proverb "The gem cannot be polished without friction, nor man can be perfected without trials."
Reminder, we are meeting at the Radisson on Speedway this week as the Gem show has displaced us. Please make sure you attend as we will be honoring one of our long time members, Sonny Solot, with a special recognition. Our program should also be very interesting as Karen Seat will be discussing religion’s role in politics in our country.
There is a lot happening in Tucson this month. We have the Gem show, soccer spring training, the rodeo and then Match Play. It is important that we support these events as they have a significant impact on our local economy. The future of the Match Play tournament may depend on the support and attendance at this year’s event. This is a great month to be in Tucson and we want to keep it that way.
It was very rewarding last week to be able to present checks to our Car Show grant recipients. Think of this when it comes time to volunteer on one of the many committees necessary to operate this amazing event. We cannot do this without everyone’s participation. Our executive director, Dorinna York just returned from the Rotary Large Club conference in Texas. She said there was a lot of interest in our car show. Many clubs were amazed at how successful our event has become. We should all be proud of what we have accomplished as a club. In the next few months, it will be time to start the hard work of preparing for the 2013 event. Let’s help president-elect Dave make this the best show ever!
In 2011 and 2012, Professor Karen Seat traveled the country interviewing social conservatives at the forefront of the movement that is often dubbed the "Christian Right." She is currently writing a book manuscript on evangelicals in American politics. Professor Seat will discuss evangelicals’ engagement with politics at key moments in American history.
Biography: Karen Seat, PhD
Karen Seat is Associate Professor of Religious Studies and Director of the Religious Studies Program at the University of Arizona. She specializes in the history of American evangelicalism. Her recent field research was supported by a grant from the University of Arizona's Confluence: A Center for Creative Inquiry. She teaches courses on American religious history and gender studies in religion.
JCG Thank you, Pat, for the opportunity to spotlight you and your wealth management firm, Wellspring Financial Partners. Rotarians need to know you and Wellspring just a little bit better. Help us understand the difference between the wealth management of Wellspring and the wealth management of a Merrill Lynch.
PAT I’d say the largest difference between large and small firms is probably one of process and independence of advice and/or products. Closely related to it is the strategic direction and nature of the firm; at Wellspring Financial Partners, the direction is not set by a Board of Directors in New York concerned with quarterly performance, but by me as Founder/CEO….Wellspring does not have a brokerage arm of their business. We act only in a fiduciary capacity.
JCG Comment on the advantage of Wellspring.
PAT There are various elements that make one firm unique vs. another. Perhaps in the money advisory business, the greatest advantage is that the principal of the firm gets to act as he sees best fit for his clients. I would hope my customers feel commitment not just on performance, but in the independence to create a firm plan for success and go anywhere to get that performance….Shortly, I’m going to launch Wellspring99, a company that provides million dollar investment services to individuals of more modest means.
JCG Rotarians, avail yourself of an excellent resource by double clicking on the Wellspring logo in the Tucsotarian-an informative website. Now, Pat, on a more personal note. Augsburg College and the U. of Chicago, being rather diverse institutions, need a comment.
PAT My mother was praying hard that one of her 5 boys would be a priest; she thought I was it. That hope felt a bit sacrilegious to me given who I was then. Therefore, I picked Augsburg College, a great little Lutheran school, to quell the thought. The University of Chicago experience was spurred out of my desire to learn more about management and finance from one of the world’s top MBA programs.
JCG I am impressed with your spiritual generosity in helping others.
PAT I believe we were all given gifts. My desire, which has grown stronger through time, is to use my gifts to benefit others while still not singing Kumbaya at every occasion. As some Rotarian’s know, that led me to become CEO of the Community Food Bank. In that process, I learned that God did give me gifts, but running a non-profit was not one of them.
JCG I have always felt that the individual Rotarian is no better than his or her spouse and immediate family. They give us the foundation and perspective only they can give. I like to call them our extended Rotary Family.
PAT My six brothers and sisters (the last born while I was a junior in college) and my wife’s five siblings are all in Minnesota where Peggy and I met in high school; she asked this geek to the Sadie Hawkins dance in the 9th grade. The greatest thing that happened to me in life was being convinced by my wife to have children, and I’ve got three that make me extremely proud. They are just good people.
JCG Pat, I won’t start listing all the ways that you serve Rotary and your community. I know you are involved with the Rotary Foundation through sitting on its Board. You have had numerous roles in The Tucson Classics Car Show and have stepped forward when Rotary needed you most. I’m always interested in that Rotary Moment, so to speak, when a Rotarian realizes that they need Rotary every bit as much as Rotary needs them. Pat, what would you call your Rotary Moment?
PAT My Rotary Moment came on a quiet afternoon sitting in Jeff Bloom’s home. A group of Rotarians had tag-teamed to assure Jeff would be attended to at- home hospice while his wife Lois continued to work. In Jeff’s inimitable wry style, while we were talking about God and what’s next, he said: “You know, I’ve really enjoyed getting to know you over these past weeks, but I’d like you to pick a different circumstance next time.” Tears welled up in both our eyes as he quietly communicated deep appreciation for the commitment Rotarians were making to his family. That’s when I knew I was in the right organization.
JCG Pat, thank you for sharing that with us. Peggy, your wife of 34 years, and your daughters, Taylor and Kara, have graciously given me the following comments.
PEG I totally enjoy being a Rotary spouse. There are plenty of community service events that we partake in together and along the way we make many new friends. What more could you ask for?
TAYLOR …His (my Dad’s) financial expertise in combination with his passion for people allow Rotary to be the perfect outlet.
KARA …My Dad loves meetingnew people, discovering what their passion in life is, and connecting those people with others. Rotary is the perfect place to do just such.
JCG Thank you Peg, Taylor, and Kara for these perspectives. Pat, you credit Dr. Hugh Thompson for extending your basketball “career.” Your avocations seem pretty risky and serious to me.
PAT Basketball is my main weekend outlet and I’m the “Commissioner” of a league that is a big pickup game group. I never had a first step when I had a first step, and Hugh helped me on a very bad sprain; but I love the exercise, camaraderie and competition. I like to read economic history; I don’t watch TV.
JCG I’d bet on you in a game of HORSE against President Obama.
I think I can speak for all RCoT Rotarians in thanking you for your dedication and service to our club.
I was reflecting after our meeting last week about the fun we had with the various speakers claiming their alma mater is the “Harvard of the____________”. What I took away from this is how important a reputation and brand are. Rotary has a great reputation as the World’s best volunteer service organization. I also thought how important it is to build the “brand” of the Rotary Club of Tucson. While service to our fellow man should not necessarily call for accolades, I believe we need to do our best to publicize our good works throughout the community in order to build our brand. By doing this, we will attract vibrant new members that will allow the club to grow and thrive. We also should celebrate our successes inside the club so our membership is fully informed of all that we do. Throughout the balance of this Rotary year, we will make a concerted effort to do both of these. You can help by spreading the good word to your friends and co-workers.
This week we will hear from Kathy Rau from the Children’s Advocacy Center and Susie Huhn from Casa de los Ninos. They will be talking about child abuse and what the organizations they represent do to help treat victims and prevent abuse, a difficult but worthy topic for our program.
I hope many of you participated in our community service project at the food bank this past weekend. This is another great example of Rotarians at work within our community.
Susie Huhn is the Executive Director of Casa de los Ninos a nationally accredited organization providing parent education and support, child welfare and behavioral health services in Pima County. Casa de los Ninos has a staff of 280 employees and over 100 volunteers.
Susie Huhn holds a Bachelor Degree in Education and a Masters Degree in Organizational Management and over 30 years experience in the provision of Human Services in Arizona. Susie Huhn started her career working for Child & Family Resources, a community based non-profit organization. For 24 years, she worked with children with special needs, teen mothers, child care centers and families often struggling to raise healthy kids. “I feel lucky to be able to say after all these years I still love what I do”
In addition to her paid positions, Susie works on many boards and committees, at local state and national level with a focus on child welfare, early childhood education, and child abuse prevention advocating for a community that values children, families and their future. Ms Huhn is Past Chair of the Board of Directors for the Arizona Council of Human Service Providers, and a Member of the Western Steering Committee of Child Welfare League of America. She was a 2007 recipient of the YWCA Women on the Move award.
The Children’s Advocacy Center is a unique, child-friendly facility where “abuse stops and healing begins.” Co-located with law enforcement, Child Protective Services, and mental health professionals, the Children’s Advocacy Center is the first step in the prosecution of child crimes in Southern Arizona. Children are interviewed by specially trained forensic interviewers using techniques that allow the child to tell what happened using his/her words and without using leading or suggestive questions. Non-offending family members receive referrals for mental health services and continuous advocacy for up to six months from our victim advocates. The Center is designed for the comfort of the child, from soothing colors and culturally diverse toys and books.
Our Education Outreach teaches children from pre-K to high school about body safety, Internet safety, communication, and the dangers of “date rape” drugs. Mandatory reporter training is also given to professionals responsible for children, and teaches them their duty to report suspected abuse.
Our children and community cannot be safe until the secrets of child abuse are brought to light and offenders held responsible for their actions. The Southern Arizona Children’s Advocacy Center is the place where “the abuse stops and the healing begins”.
Plated Salad ~ Mixed Greens with Ranch and Italian Dressings
Roast Pork Loin ~ with Mashed Sweet Potatoes, Chefs Choice of Fresh Vegetables, Rolls and Butter, Doubletree Chocolate Chip Cookies served family style, Coffee, Decaf or Iced Tea
Vegetarian option if reserved in advance
Portabella Mushroom Steak ~ grilled Portabella Mushroom Steak with Blue Cheese Cream Sauce on the Side
Fresh Fruit Plate and Gluten Free meals are also available by advance reservation only
President JIM LUBINSKI opened the meeting and introduced PAT ZUMBUSCH for the invocation. Leading the pledge and song was LESLIE GALLOWAY, who expanded the club repertoire to include an a capella rendition of “Yankee Doodle Dandy.”
KEN LIGHT introduced a number of guests and visiting Rotarians, including District Governor RANDY BROOKS.
President JIM introduced three birthday celebrants: STU GOLDMAN, a member of RCOT since 1984, who told sadly of being dumped by his Marana girlfriend via a “John Deere” letter; Past President GARY GETHMANN, RCOT member since 1986 and a Rotarian for 43 years total, celebrating both his birthday and recent retirement; and District Governor RANDY BROOKS, member of the Marana Club.
Sergeant At Arms KEVIN WONG fined Past President JIM MURPHY for a feature in Tucson Lifestyle magazine that featured JIM and the Pima Council on Aging. JIM made a donation toward Paul Harris fellowships for all three of his grandchildren.
MARCIA KRUMWIEDE reminded us of the upcoming work project at the Community Food Bank, loading emergency food boxes.
District Governor RANDY BROOKS led a special introduction of new members in the Paul Harris Society, which includes Rotarians who commit to contributing $1,000 each year to the Rotary annual programs fund or Polio Plus. With the assistance of SALLY MONTAGNE, the district governor recognized FAYE MORSE (honorary member), ELLIE PATTERSON, DICK KOLASA, BRUCE and KATIE DUSENBERRY, and CHARLOTTE HARRIS (whose Society membership also recognizes her late husband, MIKE HARRIS).
JOHN GIMMLER introduced the two speakers, Dr. Michael Hecht, Chief Medical Director of Carondelet Heart and Vascular Institute, and Dr. Derek von Haag, Director of Cardiac and Thoracic Surgery at Carondelet. Dr. Hecht spoke regarding common risk factors for heart disease and of the success of medications in treating some risk factors such as blood pressure and high cholesterol. He said one of every four deaths in the U.S. is still due to heart disease. Dr. Hecht also reviewed advances in treatment with stents. Dr. Von Haag focused on advances in surgery, particularly the use of minimally invasive cardiac surgery.
President JIM closed out the with this toast, a quote from Michel de Montaigne: “When I quote others, I do so in order to express my own ideas more clearly.”
On April 21, 1921, our club received its Charter. The club was composed of 25 charter members and approximately 25 other members selected by the Charter Members. The population of Tucson was less than 30,000 people.Through the rest of the prosperous twenties, our club was characterized by lively luncheon programs and charitable and civic activities. At that time, the club assisted in a bond issue campaign which raised money for a new school, played a charity baseball club with the Kiwanis Club raising $400 for the Boy Scouts' Summer Camp, pledged an annual gift of $200 to the Arizona Children's Home, and contributed $100 to the Pueblo, Colorado Relief Fund.
When the Great Depression hit Tucson in the early thirties, our club was proud of its "roast beef and pie" luncheon reputation. All of this changed when austerity became a reality for the club members and the club itself. Fearing defections from the membership because of the luncheon costs, newly installed President, J.F. "Pop" McKale, instituted a policy of a sandwich and drink for the luncheon fare. The cost of the luncheon was twenty-five cents. His Presidency was from July of 1933 to July of 1934.
When McKale took office there were 82 members and at end of his term, membership had increased to 84. Also at the end of his term, the economy had improved enough in Tucson to go back to the roast beef and pie menu. But things were still bleak financially for the club. The club was so financially distressed, it could not send McKale to Rotary International at the beginning of his term. The population of Tucson was still a small fraction of what it is today, but the membership slowly increased through the decade as the city gradually climbed out of the Depression years.
After his tenure as President, Pop McKale stayed active in Rotary affairs and often engaged in razzing his Democrat friend, the cigar chomping, Jack O'Dowd about politics. Their debates at the weekly meetings centered on Republican McKale's opposition to the so-called "Rude Deal" politics championed by Franklin Delano Roosevelt and artfully defended by O'Dowd. But the differences between the two friends were always cast in a humorous vein and both remained unifying forces within the club. O'Dowd was the President of the Rotary Club of Tucson in 1947-48. O'Dowd was also head of the Rationing Board during the war years preceding his presidency.
We had a great board meeting last week with the focus being on membership, how to keep our existing members and attract new ones. One of the areas of focus was, how engaged are our members and what can we do to improve on the level of engagement. We will be doing a thorough review of our current committee and project structure identifying who is involved and making sure we have an accurate list. The next step will be to identify those members who may have fallen through the cracks and reach out to them to see where they would like to serve. In addition to this, we will make a concerted effort to make public the accomplishments of our club and celebrate our successes. This was something I wanted to accomplish this year and we will be approaching it with renewed vigor. We are also anxious to hear from all of you. If you have suggestions on how we can strengthen our membership, please let us hear from you.
This week we will be hearing from doctors at the Carondelet Heart and Vascular program about cardiac health. An important topic you will not want to miss.
As I write this, President Obama is being sworn into his second term of office. Regardless of each of our political beliefs, we are one nation and he is our leader. Rotary is a great example of how a diverse group of people with very different interests and political beliefs can work together to help improve the world. Let’s continue to lead by the good works we do and hope that maybe our leaders in Washington can learn from our example!
Dr. von Haag obtained his medical degree from the University of California in Irvine after receiving a dual-bachelor’s degree in biology and zoology from California State Polytechnic University in Pomona. He completed his internship and residency at University of California Davis Medical Center, where he served as Chief Resident of General Surgery. He completed his residency in cardiothoracic surgery at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center in Pennsylvania. He is Board- Certified by the American Board of Surgery and American Board of Thoracic Surgery.
Dr. von Haag was in private practice in Phoenix, Arizona prior to joining Carondelet Specialist Group, Inc. as Director of Cardiac Surgery for Arizona Cardiothoracic Surgery Specialists. His interests include modern and minimally invasive heart and lung surgery. He works collaboratively with his partners and patients to obtain the best possible outcomes.
Dr. von Haag’s professional activities include presentations and publications for surgery associations and societies, as well as organizing and instructing medical student educational sessions. His professional memberships include of The International Society for Minimally Invasive Cardiac Surgery, Society of Thoracic Surgery, American College of Surgeons and the American Medical Association.
His personal interests include spending time with family, surfing, snowboarding, camping, hiking, riding motorcycles, reptiles and tropical fish.
MICHAEL HECHT, MD VP, Chief Medical Officer, Carondelet Heart & Vascular Institute
Dr. Hecht has served Carondelet Health Network and Tucson Heart Hospital for 15 years. Before being appointed Chief Medical Officer at Carondelet Heart & Vascular Institute, he served as Chief of Anesthesia and Medical Director there. He has served on the Medical Executive Committee and Governing Board of Tucson Heart Hospital for the past 10 years. Dr. Hecht has also retained clinical duties as a practicing Cardiac Anesthesiologist with Southern Arizona Anesthesia Services. He was the first physician in Tucson to become board-certified in Perioperative Transesophageal Echocardiography. He is a member of the American Society of Anesthesiologists, the Arizona Medical Association and the American College of Physician Executives.
Dr. Hecht received an undergraduate degree in computer sciences from The College of William and Mary in Virginia. He earned his medical degree at SUNY Health Science Center in Syracuse, New York, and completed his residency training in anesthesiology at the University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics.
KEN LIGHT gave us a meaningful invocation and President JIM LUBINSKI led us in a moment of silence for TIM CREEDON, ’81-’82 past president of our Club, who recently passed away. LESLIE GALLOWAY was introduced to lead us in the Pledge and Patriotic song, but she had “disappeared” and President JIM led us in the pledge. LESLIE “suddenly” appeared and led us in the National Anthem keeping us on task with GARY GETHMANN on the piano keeping us in tune. Past President SCOTT VAUGHAN introduced our six guests and visiting Rotarians, among them was our ’91-’92 Past President Ed Parker who received a spontaneous applause. Sergeant-at-Arms KEVIN WONG fined SUSAN MOORE-VAULT and DREW VACTOR, the latter reminding us that polio is now only in three countries. Announcements followed: President JIM reminded us of our new monthly billings; TOM ANDREWS announced our first official hike of the year; VICKIE JACOBS introduced two Blue Badges: MARIAN ABRAM and returning GLENN EWING, who will give all of us, except for look-alike President Jim, a 25% discount on computer repairs exempting printers. MATT BLAIR introduced Alex Huhn representing the Cantina Cup Int’l Fishing Tournament in San Carlos, MX who gave the $1,000 in proceeds of the tournament in appreciation of and for our work in San Carlos. The speaker was late, so President JIM did some “soft shoe” and shared the agenda for our Club’s Board meeting tomorrow regarding membership retention and recruitment and the creation of a task force to be chaired by GARY HIRSCH. Still filling time, birthday boy CLARKE DUNCAN shared many thoughts until the speaker arrived from Chicago. PAT ZUMBUSCH introduced Allen Fore, Director of Public Affairs from Kinder Morgan Energy Partners, LP., the “largest midstream and third largest energy company in North America, with more than 75,000 miles of pipelines”. It was very informative! President JIM adjourned us with a toast and quote from Mao Tse-Tung, “We think too small…”
Plated Salad ~ Dinner Salad with Ranch and Italian Dressings
Roast 1/4 Chicken ~ with Roasted Wedge Potatoes and Steamed Broccoli, Rolls and Butter, Doubletree Chocolate Chip Cookies served family style, Coffee, Decaf or Iced Tea.
Vegetarian option if reserved in advance: Pinenut and Spinach Stuffed Acorn Squash ~ Roasted Acorn Squash Stuffed with Zucchini, Yellow Squash, Pinenuts, Spinach, Green Onions, Breadcrumbs and Danish Blue Cheese, served with Vegetable Broth.
Fresh Fruit Plate and Gluten Free meals are also available by advance reservation only.
Vickie Jacobs speaks fondly of growing up in Clinton, Iowa. She loved the 4-H Club and helping her family in the real estate business. She started assisting her parents in showing real estate properties at the age of ten. In 1981, she left Iowa and came to Tucson and enrolled in the University of Arizona. She completed degrees in Psychology and Business. She also met her soon to be husband, Jake, at the University. Jake and Vickie are the proud parents of three sons, Will - 18, Marcus - 16, and Adam, - 9. Jake has been on Sabbatical in South Africa completing a study program and is scheduled to return soon. He is on the faculty of the University of Arizona as a Psychology Professor. His studies focus on the brain and the impact of stress on the brain. Will and Adam are both soccer enthusiasts and are active players of the sport. Marcus' interests lean toward academics with Physics being his current focus.
Vickie became active in the real estate business in 1994. She is the owner of eight rental properties and also assists clients in buying and selling rental properties. When Vickie became a Rotarian some ten years ago, she was interested in the Rotary Youth Exchange. She serves as co-chairperson of the committee along with Tom Andrews. Vickie cites four goals of the Rotary Youth Exchange as being vital to the World Community. First, the program promotes world peace. Second, it expands the education of the participants and the school mates they interact with in the participating schools. Third, it opens up career opportunities for the students by exposing them to different cultures and economic systems. Lastly, it familiarizes the students with different cultures. Vickie requires all students in the program here in Tucson to take a course in American History. Vickie feels the hope for society lies in the education of children.
As co-chairperson of the Star Committee, Vickie tries to stress to new members the importance of involvement and commitment. The Star Committee meets with Red Badge members, which requires their participation in various functions of the Rotary Meeting such as Mystery Editor, Greeting Line, Guest Introduction, and Prayer and Song. She is ably assisted by her co-chair, Chris Reaney.
But be forewarned. This altruistic and conscientious Rotarian will gladly sit down at the poker table with you. Vickie has been playing poker for years and loves the competition. She plays in a Women Only game once a month. She has little time for poker though, because she loves going to her sons' soccer games and for the last few years has been coaching soccer. Vickie proudly points out that her youngest son, Adam, has helped her with Salvation Army Bell Ringing and with Car Show activities for the last seven years. Adam is 9 years old.
Allen Fore, director of public affairs for Kinder Morgan Energy Partners, L.P., has more than 25 years of experience in law, government, public affairs and public relations at the local, state, and national levels.
At Kinder Morgan, Allen manages public affairs, government relations, and community relations activities for existing company assets and major expansion projects.
An employer of nearly 300 in Arizona, Kinder Morgan operates over 5,000 miles of pipelines and recently acquired the St. John’s CO2 field (in St. John, AZ). Kinder Morgan is also proposing a number of domestic infrastructure projects which will bring significant benefits to Arizona.
Kinder Morgan is the largest midstream and the third largest energy company in North America with a combined enterprise value of approximately $100 billion. It owns an interest in or operates approximately 75,000 miles of pipelines and 180 terminals. Its pipelines transport natural gas, gasoline, crude oil, CO2 and other products, and its terminals store petroleum products and chemicals and handle such products as ethanol, coal, petroleum coke and steel.
A boisterous crowd viewed a fabulous slide show of the 2012 Tucson Classics Car Show while dining and conversing until PRESIDENT JIM LUBINSKI brought the meeting to order. TED KIRACOFE gave an inspired invocation followed by the pledge and song led by LESLIE GALLOWAY, who was back in fine vocal form, and the talented GARY GETHMANN on piano.
LUBINSKI reminded us several times to kick in for the scholarship cups, especially the Holiday Party interlopers whose indiscretions just won’t go away. TUCKER introduced the sole visiting Rotarian and guests of Rotarians. Notably, our beloved former member, Larry Peth received warm applause.
Celebrating birthdays were KANDIE VACTOR, taking credit for 26 years of husband DREW VACTOR’s perfect attendance, and soprano LESLIE GALLOWAY. Brava!
Sgt. KEVIN WONG demonstrated the sophisticated procedure for submitting published articles featuring our members. Look for a pink box by the door. Leading by example, LUBINSKI noted he had already submitted the first article. WONG reported that the Holiday Party raffle netted $466 for the club and offered thanks to all donors and ticket buyers. MARCIA KRUMWIEDE announced work projects slated for later this month. LUBINSKI reminded us that e-billings are coming soon to an inbox near you.
There was a moment of silence for the recent passings of KANDIE VACTOR’S mother and KATHY KITAGAWA’S mother-in-law.
MARIANNE FREITAS and TOM STRASBURG reported on the milestone success of the 2012 Tucson Classics Car Show. Accompanied by a Rowdy Table drum roll, FREITAS announced that proceeds this year totaled $119,526.21, bringing our overall take to a whopping $525,392 since 2007. Kudos to all! HAL ADAMSON received a standing ovation for his vision and leadership in developing the car show concept. Over 26,000 tickets were sold this year and ARNIE JACOBSEN, JON WANG, BOB SHAFF, JOE PENNINGTON, MIKE ANDERSON, PATRICK ZUMBUSCH, MIKE DEVRIES, JERRY HARRIS, ROBERT O’BRIEN & JIM SUMWALT all received shout outs for their efforts. MATT BLAIR and KEITH COBB were featured once again in the funniest video in club history.
A check presentation for $5,000 was made to Rick Belding of St. Gregory Preparatory School who allowed that the relationship is synergistic, symbiotic, serendipitous and pulchritudinous enough to keep them happy. Our $5,000 gift leveraged a matching gift for the school doubling the value, which was greatly appreciated.
JOE PENNINGTON recognized this year’s outstanding leaders FREITAS and STRASBURG for setting high standards and surpassing their own goals. The second standing ovation of the day followed.
BRIAN GOLDSTEIN introduced guest speaker Eric Nielsen, Director of the U.S. Commercial Service-Arizona, an arm of the Department of Commerce. Nielsen provided an overview of Arizona’s role in the global economy, giving us a new perspective on Mexico’s competitive business and manufacturing operations and the increasing regard they are earning across the world. Great questions followed the talk from CARMEN BERMUDEZ, PAULINE HECHLER, MIKE SCHULTE, DAVE GALLAHER and BILL MOORE. Nielsen signed a book for the Reading Seed Library: “Shark vs. Train”.
I have never known a Rotarian who did not have a great deal of “hidden” wisdom. KEN LIGHT is such a Rotarian. Ken has given his wisdom to The Rotary Club of Tucson for over 20 years and has given leadership to The Tucson Jewish Community Center as CEO for 27 years. I spoke briefly with Ken about this Sponsor Spotlight and quickly realized that an interview would not be the best way to know his very special leadership talent. I have gone to The JCC website blog for more insight and have received Ken’s permission to capsulate Ken Light’s Eighteen Pearls of “JCC wisdom” garnered from 43 years in Jewish Communal Service.
To receive the full text and to learn more about The JCC, please go to the very impressive and detailed JCC Website.
JCC WISDOM
· Take the Job very seriously; don’t take yourself too seriously. Maintain a sense of humor!
· You can’t pay people what they are worth . . . you cannot place a value on human worth.
· The Jewish values of Pikuah Nafesh and Shmirat Haguf, preservation of life and care of one’s body, are essential to wellness and important to success . . . .
· You must make the time, rather than find the time, for anything important.
· The Rotary 4-Way Test has universal applicability . . . .
· Humility is an essential element of effective leadership.
· None of us is as smart as all of us.
· Say it straight or you’ll show it crooked . . . .
· There is an inherent dignity in human beings . . . .Every human being deserves to be treated with dignity and respect.
· The management of agreement is as important as the management of conflict . . . .
· While we’re not necessarily trained psychologists, we should use ourselves in a conscious manner recognizing that there is a reason for every behavior . . . .
· “Cry a billion tears; write a million words; make a thousand speeches; pass a hundred laws. But still, understanding begins with communication.”
· Even if you’re on the right track, you will get run over if you stand still.
· “Those who come to flatter, please me. Those who complain, teach me how I may please others so more will come. Only those hurt me who are displeased, but do not complain. They refuse me permission to correct my errors and thus improve my service.” Marshall Field
· There is not much in this world that can’t be improved by adding a little chocolate to it . . . .
· If you always do what you’ve always done, you’ll always get what you’ve always got.
· Everything in moderation . . . .
Control is an illusion. The sooner we accept this and “go with the flow” rather than battling against the current, the sooner we will enjoy both success and serenity.
I have had the privilege to speak with Marcia Light, Ken’s wife of 43 years and mother of his three children; Lori Maurer, JCC’s Executive Assistant for 9 years; and Brenda, a JCC part-time receptionist. Their comments help to define the leadership qualities and the human touch of Ken Light.
BRENDA: Mr. Light is on it! He knew my name and acknowledged my birthday. One late evening following a Board meeting, he brought a plate of food out to me at the reception desk. That was just too special! Remember, I was part-time.
LORI: It’s been my good pleasure to work beside Ken Light as his Executive Assistant. An honest and fair man, Ken has the rare ability not to allow negative aspects of his day to impact how he treats fellow staff members. He has a great sense of humor and is a loyal friend and family man. I look up to and emulate Ken, a man of high integrity, and this has made these 9 years a treasure.
MARCIA: Ken and I consider ourselves to be extremely fortunate to have chosen Tucson as the community in which to raise our family. We have been blessed with three great children (and their spouses) along with four AMAZING grandchildren. Rotary helped us shape the foundation for the values we have passed on to our children and grandchildren. Ken was very familiar with Rotary prior to joining the Tucson Rotary Club, as his father was a Rotarian for over 50 years in Gunnison, Colorado. As a Rotarian and a physician, Dad provided medical relief work around the world for the Rotary International Foundation. He traveled to Sudan, the Philippines, Hong Kong and numerous Native American reservations providing medical care to those in need. I believe this is but one example of how Rotary not only changes lives directly but influences lives (Ken’s) indirectly.
I am very proud to be the wife of a Rotarian, but most of all, I am proud to be Ken’s wife for more than 43 years!
Thank you, Brenda, Lori, and Marcia. I certainly hope that Rotary has been as beneficial for Ken Light and The Tucson Jewish Community Center as Ken Light has been for The Rotary Club of Tucson.
Plated Salad - Dinner Salad with Ranch and Italian Dressings
Spicy Applesauce Meatloaf ~ with Mashed Potatoes and Brown Gravy, Chefs Roasted Fresh Seasonal Vegetables, Rolls and Butter, Doubletree Chocolate Chip Cookies served family style, Coffee, Decaf or Iced Tea.
Vegetarian option if reserved in advance: Vegetarian Wrap with Avocado Ranch, Fresh Vegetables, Jack and Cheddar cheeses in a Whole Wheat Flour Tortilla, Potato Chips.
Fresh Fruit Plate and Gluten Free meals are also available by advance reservation only.
Congratulations to all of us on the outstanding results from the 2012 car show. The show leadership team did an outstanding job directing our most successful show to date. The timely reporting is another great achievement. Reading Seed, PCOA and the YWCA will all share in our success. The only disappointing item reported was the 36 members who did not sell any tickets for the show. As I have repeatedly said this Rotary year, we don’t want members to be on the roster without being in the game. We achieve so much more when we all pull together. Let’s shoot for 100% participation for 2013.
This week we will hear from Allen Fore from Kinder Morgan. Allen will be talking about Kinder Morgan’s impact on the Arizona economy. Hope you will be at the meeting to hear what Allen has to say.
At our board meeting this coming Thursday, our agenda will be focused on membership. This is a continuing challenge for our club and almost all clubs across the country. It has been a struggle so far this year with our membership numbers dipping slightly since June. If any of you have any suggestions or comments you would like to be a part of the board’s discussion this coming Thursday, please get them to me or any board member by Thursday afternoon. Better yet, bring a prospective member to our meeting this week!
President JIM LUBINSKI opened the meeting right on time and introduced JACK PARRIS for the invocation. Leading the pledge and song was JAN GREEN, subbing for the voice-challenged LESLIE GALLOWAY. GARY GETHMANN ably accompanied on the piano.
BRUCE TUNZE introduced many guests.
CHARLOTTE HARRIS and MARIANNE FREITAS did the honors for Paul Harris Fellow presentations to MIKE SAGARA; RICHARD GUTHRIE and his wife, Patricia Dunford; JEFF RONSTADT; MARCIA GILL; and Davin Wang, Nolan Wang, and their dad, our own Past President JON WANG (with Noreen Wang standing in for Nolan). Past President CHARLOTTE kept alive BOB LOGAN’s tradition of silly gifts for Paul Harris recipients.
During announcements, DARRELL STEWART showed off the fabulous MIKE HARRIS Trophy, which will be awarded annually to the top individual fundraiser from Rotary’s El Tour de Tucson Ride for Polio Plus. The trophy was created by Chris Harris, the oldest son of MIKE and CHARLOTTE. It will be awarded this year to a Tulsa area Rotarian by District Governor RANDY BROOKS.
PAT LENNAN reported that 87 members of our club, plus 27 friends and family, raised $6,926.11 through the Salvation Army bell-ringing. He had special recognition for the bell-ringing prowess of TED FORSBERG and Santa imitator JOHN COUSINS. President JIM announced that final Car Show results will be reported at the lunch on January 9.
JEFF RONSTADT introduced the speaker, BOB LOGAN, who gave a presentation about his three-week hike on the Camino del Santiago in Northern Spain. BOB hiked 240 miles, or about one-half of the 500-mile Camino del Santiago. He said about 100,000 hikers a year tackle the Camino, with some returning in several years to finish the entire path. The hike is a pilgrimage, and BOB talked about some of the many small shrines and memorials left along the trail by pilgrims. In addition to his personal journey, BOB used the hike to raise money and visibility for various local causes, including Habitat for Humanity Tucson, Challenger Little League, TROT, and Send-A-Kid-To-Camp. He has a full report about his journey in a blog at: http://21days21wishes.tumblr.com/
Following BOB’s talk, President JIM closed out the first meeting of 2013 with this toast, a quote from Edith Lovejoy Pierce: “We will open the book. Its pages are blank. We are going to put words on them ourselves. The book is called Opportunity, and its first chapter is New Year’s Day.”
The big “Reveal” happens this Wednesday. Results from the 2012 car show will be presented by your car show team leaders at our meeting this week. If you recall, last year we decided that it was necessary to close the books on our show each year by 12/31. Keeping with this pledge, a full report will be given to members during our meeting. This is months sooner than we have ever reported for prior shows. A big thank you to everyone who made this happen.
Following the car show presentation, we will hear from Eric Nielsen regarding how Arizona’s economy can grow via exports. Eric is the Director of U.S. Commercial Service for Arizona. I am sure you are aware of the mayor’s push to do business with Mexico, so this will be a timely program.
Are you on a committee(s) but, not an active participant? Or, do you just attend our weekly meetings and some of the social events but do not get involved in the service aspect of our club? If this is the case, you are doing yourself a terrible injustice. Service is what Rotary is all about and the more you do, the better your experience will be. If you are looking for some way to get involved, let myself or one of our board members know, and we will be happy to assist you. You will not regret it.
A reminder that starting this month, we will be billing via email for expenses, fines and extra events in the month in which they occur. This will help cash flow and office accounting tremendously so, please make sure you pay in a timely fashion. As always, if you have a question over any item you are billed for, please call the office.
Summary: Eric Nielsen, the Director of the U.S. Commercial Service in Arizona, will share his perspectives about how exports can contribute to economic growth in the Tucson region. Topics will include:
Southern Arizona’s export landscape;
How local organizations help companies develop international sales; and,
Plated Salad - Dinner Salad with Ranch and Balsamic dressings
Chicken Picatta ~ Chicken Breast Cutlets, Dredged in seasoned flower and pan seared and served in Butter, Lemon Juice, Capers, Parsley and White Wine, Wild Rice Pilaf, Sauteed Tomatoes and Squashes, Rolls and Butter, Doubletree Chocolate Chip Cookies served family style, Coffee, Decaf or Iced Tea.
Vegetarian option if reserved in advance: Portobella Mushroom Napoleon ~ Layers of Grilled Portobella Mushrooms with a Roasted Corn Spicy Salsa and Topped with Fresh Herbs.
Fresh Fruit Plate and Gluten Free meals are also available by advance reservation only.
Thank you to DISTRICT GOVERNOR RANDY BROOKS and wife DEB HUME for joining THE ROTARY CLUB OF TUCSON and THE ROTARY CLUB OF SAN CARLOS, SONORA, in making many HOLIDAY ROTARY MOMENTS for Rotarians and for many grade-school children of Sonora, Mexico.
What was started 23 years ago by THE RCoT and led by such Rotary families as GARD and MARCIA PIERCE, PAT and LYNETTE PATTON, LARRY and PATTY PETH, ALAN and LISA SCHROPE, SAN CARLOS has become an early December Rotary tradition. Many new ROTARY MOMENTS are experienced every year.
There were several “firsts” for us in 2012. We were honored to have DISTRICT GOVERNOR RANDY BROOKS, PAST DISTRICT GOVERNOR ERNIE MONTAGNE, and DISTRICT GOVERNOR NOMINEE SALLY MONTAGNE making new ROTARY MOMENTS for us.
Another first: We took the challenge of ROTARY’S most recent arm and emphasis, THE NEW GENERATION, by inviting two young future ROTARIANS. DANICA, with her parents, and JULIAN, with his grandparents, contributed greatly to the Holiday Spirit.
This year was a first for the SANTA CLARA, SONORA, grade school. Apparently, meeting ROTARIANS was also a first for this rural school. The three schools— LOS RANCHITOS, LA MANGA, and SANTA CLARA— filled two days of gift giving and cheer giving to approximately 500 children (give or take a few hundred). Receiving 500 ROTARY MOMENTS is pretty “awesome,” as the NEW GENERATION would say.
Special thanks go to ALAN and LISA SCHROPE for their planning, organization and guidance. THE RCoT will extend invitations to DISTRICT 5500 ROTARIAN FAMILIES for the 2013 trip. I can assure that you will receive many ROTARY MOMENTS when you accompany us to San Carlos.
GOVERNOR RANDY: “It was a very interesting, fun and a moving experience. I hope the tradition continues for another 30 years! I loved the attendees from Tucson, the San Carlos Rotarians and mostly the children – what fun for them – to find a little hope from Rotarians – it is a valuable tradition.”
I hope everyone enjoyed the holidays and your brief break from Rotary. But, it’s a New Year and time to get back to work. This week we will hear from our own Bob Logan about his travels this past fall when he did a personal pilgrimage walking the El Camino de Santiago hike. Bob said this was a very emotional and life changing experience and he will share this with us on Wednesday.
As we start the New Year, it is a good time to reflect on what we want to accomplish in our club in the coming year. Our biggest focus now must be on membership. We need to grow to continue to be a strong force in our community. Growth will only happen with everyone’s commitment and efforts. So, please make this part of your focus over the next several months and throughout the year. Our board will be focusing on this at our January meeting. We want to be able to continue to do the good work we have been doing in our community and throughout the world and can only do this with a strong and vibrant membership.
We have some great programs planned over the next few months, and I look forward to sharing many more great meetings with you in the coming year. See you all Wednesday!
Major Clement Leslie (Clem to his friends) and I met at Rotary and were New (Red Badge) members around the same time in late 2009. Clem has been a Rotarian in several clubs throughout the United States while being in the service of The Salvation Army. Clem was born in Trinidad (the southern Caribbean) to parents who were also Salvation Army Officers. His parents did quite a bit of island hopping in the service of The Salvation Army and it seems that each time they hopped, a child was born. They moved to British Guyana (now the Republic of Guyana) where the oldest sister was born, St. Vincent where two brothers were born, and to Jamaica where Clem’s youngest sister was born. Clem eventually settled down in Barbados where he attended high school. On his return to Trinidad, he met and was smitten by a pretty girl, Evangeline. He was so love struck that when she moved to Wilmore, KY to attend Asbury College in 1974, he decided to follow her… well he really didn’t look at the map and ended up moving to Washington, D.C. where he had hoped to pursue his dream of being a jazz musician playing the trumpet.
Well, determination is one of Clem’s characteristics, and he was bound and determined to close the distance between him and Evangeline. He took a bus through small towns in the mid 1970s to visit her in Wilmore, KY where she was attending college. With faith and determination, and many long distance phone calls, he married Evangeline in 1977 and they both entered The Salvation Army School for Officers’ Training in 1978. They were ordained as Salvation Army Officers (pastors) in 1980 accepting their first assignment in Henderson, KY. Clem has traveled extensively with The Salvation Army from the east coast to the west coast and has been a member of many Rotary Clubs in each of the cities that he has worked.
Along the way, Clem attended and graduated from the TC School of Law in Richmond, VA and at The Salvation Army’s School for Officer Training in Rancho Palos Verdes, CA, he taught Business Procedures and the New Testament. The Salvation Army moved Clem to Alexandria, VA where he was the Director of Public Policy and Coordinator of the Faith-Based Initiative. He left The Salvation Army for a short period in 2004 to become a Contract Law Clerk and practice law, but returned to The Salvation Army in 2008. Clem and Evangeline are the proud parents of two adult children, Ryan and Joy, and one grandchild. (Google “Ryan Leslie” and you will be in for a real treat).
The El Camino de Santiago is a journey walked by Catholics, Christians and others from all over the world for more than 1,500 years. There are a number of established routes leading to Santiago from all directions. The route I have chosen begins in Leon, Spain, and covers approximately 240 miles of countryside to Santiago. From September 23 to October 13, I will embark on El Camino. One thing I know for sure: I am not in this alone. My wife and I have been supporters of the Tucson community for years, and we think this journey can bring attention to local causes that help so many. Each day, I will dedicate my walk to one charity. Here I will document this journey and post status updates and photos to bring visibility to these groups that do so much for our community.
President JIM LUBINSKI called the meeting to order right on time as usual.
SUSAN MOORE VAULT gave a great invocation which was her first for the club.
LESLIE GALLOWAY gave the pledge and the song and got us in perfect pitch by humming the start of “America the Beautiful”.
JEFF RONSTADT gave the introduction to a "slew" of guests and visiting Rotarians.
Happy Birthday to BOBBY LARSON who described the meaning of "thoroughbreds". JACK PARRIS was absent. HOOT GIBSON and GARY SCHEER both entertained us with anecdotes about their birthdays with Gary's birthday being on 12/25/12! Happy birthday also to ANDREW MARTIN!
CAM MOORE introduced our newest member of the club BILL MOORE who comes to us with extensive experience as a former Rotarian. Bill was immediately recruited to serve on several committees! Welcome BILL!
CHARLOTTE HARRIS AND BOB ("What the heck is in BOB's gift bag today") LOGAN introduced our new Paul Harris Fellow Awards. BOB had his handy first aid kit as a special gift which was well received! Congratulations to all our new Paul Harris Fellows.
KEVIN "Mr. fashionista" WONG made announcements and did fines, fines, and more fines of members. PAT LENNAN (in his fashionable red blazer) made sure we are all signed up to ring the Salvation Army bells this Saturday.
DAVE GALLAHER announced that MARY MARTIN will be our new President elect-elect to a standing ovation!
MATT BLAIR introduced Myles Stone and Mike Mallozzi from Borderlands Brewing Company who presented "everything you always wanted to know about beer" to salute the opening of their new brewery. Congrats to Myles and Mike for opening their great new company in downtown Tucson!!
President JIM concluded the meeting and assured us in his inspiring toast that "yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus"!
Remember that we have no regular meeting this week so, if you are not attending the holiday party at the Javelina Cantina at the DoubleTree on Wednesday evening, please make sure to do a make-up. By the way, a special thanks to new member Bill Moore for getting our scholarship cups filled to the brim this week!
We are at the mid-point of our Rotary year and we have had a busy and productive first six months. Among our accomplishments are;
- Hiring a new executive director, welcome Dorinna!
- Complete a highly successful 6th annual Tucson Classics Car Show, proceeds to be distributed in January
- Returned to San Carlos for our annual Christmas service project
- Held a city wide economic summit with close to 300 attending
- Helped raise over $400,000 to fight Polio via the Ride to End Polio, great job Gary and team!
- Elected 3 new club directors, congrats to Matt, Darrell and Kevin
- Named our PEE, way to go Mary!
- Rang the bell for the Salvation Army
- Made some changes and improvements to our weekly meetings
We should all be proud of what we have accomplished but, we have much more to do in the next six months including:
- Starting a new international service project (details forthcoming)
- Continue meeting improvements and implementation of other suggestions from the membership survey
- Embarking on local service projects
- Growing our membership (we are down a net 3 members although we have several new pending approval)
- Improving membership attendance and participation in club events
- Refining and improving our membership training programs
Our club gets things done. But, we need everyone to participate so we can achieve our true potential as the premiere service club in Tucson and southern Arizona. Remember that the more you put in, the more you get out.
I would like to personally wish all of you and your families, a healthy and happy holiday season and the same throughout next year. Hope to see you at the party Wednesday evening!
The Rotary Club of Tucson began its efforts to assist college level students in 1947. The program was the idea of Emory Hyde. Under his leadership, the program began with grants of two hundred dollars per semester for students selected by the Scholarship Committee. The students selected came from a group of students referred to the committee by the Scholarship Office of the University of Arizona. In the beginning, the scholarships were only for one year. As time went by, the Scholarships were granted for four years as long as academic standards were met. High School Principals referred the initial candidates to the University. The only contact the students who received the awards had with our club was through the receipt of the checks. Initially, money was collected at the weekly meetings in milk bottles. By 1971 the milk bottles had been replaced by tin cups. Also, individual donations from members helped sustain the program.
Now, the Scholarship Program is the longest ongoing charitable/community support program in the Rotary Club of Tucson, according to the director of the program, Roger Harwell. For years a club rep would go to each high school award ceremony and give the award. During this time we gave $1,000 to one student from every graduating high school class in the Tucson area. The students went to college, got the money, and we never saw them again after the award ceremony.
Approximately ten years ago, the procedure was changed. Now we award $2,000 per year to ten students at the University of Arizona and award $800 to Pima College students. Now students who receive the award are required to attend four events or meetings sponsored and run by the Rotary Club of Tucson. Students who start at Pima can continue to receive the Scholarship money if they attend the University of Arizona.
This year we have 10 University of Arizona students: two seniors, three juniors, two sophomores and three freshmen. At present, no scholarship has been awarded to a Pima College student. Applications have been solicited and the awarding of a scholarship to a Pima College student will be forthcoming. Funding for the program comes from members putting $3 into the Scholarship Cups at each meeting or signing up for a quarterly payment with their Club dues. Funding also comes from interest earned on funds stockpiled over the years and designated for scholarships. The program is administered by Roger Harwell and ten committee members. If you have not signed up for the automatic payment option with your club dues, give it some thought. It is a small payout for a large return.
Wednesday will be our last “regular” meeting of the year (12/12/12, interesting…..) and it will be one you don’t want to miss. Our new president elect-elect will be revealed by our current president elect, Dave Gallaher. I know you will be impressed with this future club leader. After we learn this person’s identity, we will hear all about the art of making beer. Is there a tie-in here?
What a fascinating presentation last week from Dean Joaquin Ruiz. All of this amazing science right in our back yard. We will have a somewhat related program in February when Dean Len Jessup from the Eller College will be our speaker. One of Dean Jessup’s goals is to use the business talent of the Eller College to help monetize all of the technologies and discoveries taking place at the U of A. This tremendous resource is one of the main ingredients necessary to create a vital and growing business climate in Tucson.
On Saturday December 15th , we will continue our tradition of ringing the bell for the Salvation Army. Over 100 of us will be at various sites throughout town performing this valuable service for the needy in our community. Last year our efforts raised approximately $6,600. Let’s see if we can top that this year. My wife Karen and I will be at the Bashas’ at Kolb and Sunrise from 1-3 if you care to stop by and help fill our kettle.
Have you signed up yet for the 12/19 holiday party? Please plan to join the 128 members and guests who have registered so far for a fun evening full of holiday cheer. Kevin Wong has been busy accumulating an impressive list of raffle prizes for the evening. Melody Louise will be providing the entertainment. Some of you enjoyed her smooth renditions of popular classics at the district conference. She performs around Tucson and will be gracing us with her presence on the 19th. Don’t miss it!
In 1969, The Rotary Club of Tucson President George Hawke successfully partnered with the Salvation Army in what has become a Holiday Tradition. Bell Ringing. Rotarians and family and friends, wearing red Santa hats and Rotary shirts, and cheerfully standing by kettles at local retail outlets have raised thousands of dollars for the Salvation Army. This year's event is scheduled for Saturday, December 15, 2012. This is Pat Lennan's second year to lead this project. Pat says he cannot remember how many years he has participated in Bell Ringing. He says it is one of the most rewarding experiences of his life. Along with his wife, Darleen, and fellow Rotarian Lee Aitken and his wife, Judy, Pat handles the hectic organizing and planning of this vital one day event.
Last year, $6,500 was raised in a single day of Bell Ringing by the Rotary Club of Tucson. 114 Rotarians, family, and friends manned 14 kettles. This year, Pat will also have to staff 14 kettles. Each two-person shift is for two hours. As of December 4, there were 81 signups. 31 more signups are needed. You can sign up on Club Runner or call Pat Lennan at 742-1999 or Lee Aitken at 579-8392. Participating retail outlets include Safeway, Walgreens, Bashas’, Walmart, Dillards, and Fry’s.
Pat Lennan reminds us that the $6,500 we raised last year enabled the Salvation Army to buy over $65,000 worth of food for needy Tucsonans. If you have some free time on Saturday, December 15, sign up for a shift. It is a pleasant and worthwhile use of your time and it sustains a tradition of almost fifty years of the Rotary Club of Tucson partnering with the Salvation Army to bring Holiday Cheer to the down and out and less fortunate.
Plated Salad ~ Dinner Salad with Ranch and Italian dressings
Chicken Picatta ~ Chicken Breast Cutlets, dredged in seasoned flower and pan seared with a Sauce of Butter, Lemon Juice, Capers, Parsley and White Wine, Wild Rice Pilaf, Sauteed Tomatoes and Squashes, Rolls and Butter, Chocolate Chip Cookies served family style, Coffee, Decaf or Iced Tea.
Vegetarian option if reserved in advance: Vegetarian Wrap with Avocado Ranch, Fresh Vegetables, Jack and Cheddar Cheeses in a Whole Wheat Flour Tortilla
Fresh Fruit Plate and Gluten Free meals are also available by advance reservation.
President JIM LUBINSKI called the meeting to order right on time.
CLEM LESLIE gave the invocation. LESLIE GALLOWAY led us in a stirring rendition of “God Bless America”.
JO DECHATELET introduced our guests and visiting Rotarians.
Happy Birthday to JIM DAVENPORT, who commented on the tragedy of Hostess brands being shut down, but was happy to report that the voters had decided to send all the remaining Ding Dongs to Washington D.C.; ALAN SCHROPE who, on his 40th birthday reflected on how young he felt standing at the podium overlooking all the members; and CAM MOORE, who looked increasingly svelte due to his participation in the 60 Day Insanity workout.
JOE NEVIN (My Fellow Rotarians) thanked everyone for another successful year of the Rotary Clothes Closet Cleaning Day. PAT LENNAN is still recruiting for RCoT bell ringing on December 15th. He will be calling on you to ‘Volunteer’. JON WANG reminded us that the 2 Rotary marathon teams will be racing this Sunday in the Tucson marathon. Good luck to both teams. DREW VACTOR and KEVIN WONG spoke about the Holiday Mixer on December 19th at the Javelina Cantina. KEVIN listed the raffle prizes which may include a cabin in Greer (no word on if this includes the property title).
BOB LOGAN introduced Joaquin Ruiz, the Dean of the University Of Arizona College Of Science. It was a lively presentation about all the ways that the College of Science is turning Tucson into a ‘Science City’.
President JIM concluded the meeting with an inspiring toast (as usual).
Science is hard work, but opening a business can be even harder. Mike Mallozzi is a postdoctoral fellow and Myles Stone is a med student at the University of Arizona. Together with the brewmaster Blake Collins, they have managed to start a successful business in downtown Tucson. Mike and Myles will discuss the ins and outs not only of the science and art of making beer, but also of their experience in starting up a new business downtown.
Borderlands Brewing Company was started in 2010 by two close friends, Michael Mallozzi and Myles Stone. Mike and Myles met at a kick ball game organized by some mutual friends and soon after found they both shared a passion for craft beer. Mike and Myles began home-brewing beer together and it was long after that the idea of starting Borderlands was hatched.
The holiday season is upon us as we wind to the end of 2012. This month we only have 2 regular meetings on the 5th and 12th. Our holiday party will be the evening of 12/19 and then we will be dark the 26th. If you have not already signed up for the party, please do so. We have 126 signed up so far and it promises to be a great evening of fun, fellowship and entertainment. We are trying to put together an outstanding raffle so if you have something to donate, please contact Kevin Wong.
This week we will hear from Joaquin Ruiz from the University Of Arizona College Of Science. He will be talking about “Tucson - A Science City”. We are fortunate to have such an outstanding research university right here in Tucson. I am sure this will be a fascinating presentation.
More exciting news will be shared with all of us on 12/12 as your president elect, Dave Gallaher will be introducing our president elect-elect (will serve as club president 2014-15). Always an exciting moment for our club.
Have you brought a prospective member as a guest recently? New members are essential for the vitality and growth of our club. So far this year we have held flat but, we need to continue to make a concerted effort to bring new and fresh ideas into the club via new members. I had set a goal at the beginning of the year to grow membership by a net 10. We have a ways to go so let’s get on it!
The meeting began promptly with President Jim introducing KEITH COBB to lead us in the invocation, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance led by DREW VACTOR (member since 1966). Then we all joined in an extended version of “This Land is Your Land” headed up with the vocal styling of LESLIE GALLOWAY…. One more time everyone, “This land is my land…”
We all then enjoyed our fellow Rotarians in eating a “homemade” chicken pot pie, mmm mmm.
MR. JERRY “THE TICKET MAN” HARRIS introduced our guests and visiting Rotarians. We were lucky to have an entourage representing the Reading Seed and Literacy Connects join us.
Fines were abundant today and being doled out liberally by Sgt. at Arms KEVIN WONG. First it was EMERY BARKER recognized as Arbitration Lawyer of the Year. Then LISA FOGLE was in the premier issue of Tucson Women’s Magazine. Our very own DR. ALLEN ROGERS was recognized as one of the best Docs in America. And finally, SID HIRSH had publicity in two publications.
Now on to the live auction of 2 U of A B-ball tickets, MIKE ORCUTT did a fine job in getting CAMERON MOORE to take the tickets with his bid.
It is about that time to start our bells a-ringing so PAT LENNAN gave us the details of the RCoT Bell Ringing Day on Saturday December 15th, sign up if you can. I just hope whatever critter was stuck in PAT’s Santa hat got away without incident…
JON WANG and JENNIFER HOFFMAN are still recruiting for the Tucson Marathon on Sunday December 9th… VIRGINA LEAVITT touted the Holiday Mixer Wednesday December 19th from 5:30-8:00 p.m. at the Javelina Cantina.
Finally, GEORGE DARLING introduced our speaker Shawn Batsch, A special agent who enlightened us on “Fraud and Embezzlement”
"Due to its scientific expertise and attractions, Tucson has been dubbed the "Science City." As a trailblazer in the fields of astronomy, ecology, evolutionary biology, geology, hydrology and tree-ring research, the College of Science has established an international reputation for excellence. Tucson is nestled between four mountain ranges and located one hour north of the Mexican border. The lush Sonoran Desert supports a wide variety of plants and animals, the majestic Santa Catalina Mountains contain a pine forest and a small ski resort, and the diverse population and elegant tourist resorts enable a rich cultural life. Facilities managed by the College of Science such as Biosphere 2, Tumamoc, Flandrau, Mt. Lemmon SkyCenter, the Mirror Lab, and Laboratory of Tree-Ring Research provide a strong foundation for the collaborative promotion of all Tucson-area Geotourism attractions. Beyond that, each provide great entertainment for adults and children alike. It's the astounding biodiversity of the spectacular Sonoran Desert that makes Tucson a truly unique place."
The 2012 Rotary Ride to End Polio is complete. And although we will continue to count additional fund raising as the final reporting trickles in, as Rotarians we have a great deal to be proud of.
This year’s ride is one of firsts. It’s the first year we broke the 90 cyclist barrier. Thanks to the Rotary Club of Tucson Sunset it’s the first year that we had a fully functioning booth at the El Tour finish line. Most importantly we blew past the $200,000 fund raising goal set by District Governor Randy Brooks and our current total stands at more than $385,000. We are told by Rotary General Secretary John Hewko, who, with his wife Marga joined us in our ride, that this amount of money will vaccinate close to one million children, who will never again need fear the crippling effects of polio.
This year too is the first year that we had participation by and the support of Rotary International. RI launched a social media blitz that included Twitter, Facebook and a dedicated Blog on the Rotary International Site. RI Staff photographer Monika Lozinska photographed our pre-ride dinner, the El Tour Dedication dinner and many points of the El Tour route. RI purchased mile 99 in the Dedicate a Mile program to highlight our “this close” campaign. At the El Tour Dedication Dinner, three beneficiaries, including Rotary were asked to speak. John Hewko, who spoke on behalf of Rotary was the only speaker presented with an award, recognizing our exceptional progress in the four years that Rotary has participated in El Tour.
This year again featured several fund raising champions. Bob McKenzie of Tulsa led with about $70,000 followed by Former RI Director Eric Adamson and Past District Governor Ernie Montagne. John and Marga Hewko, working with RI staff together raised more than $200,000.
Although a couple of our riders were injured in crashes, the ride itself was blissful for most. The weather was perfect with little wind, a nice overcast and moderate temperatures. The Rotary Aid Station at Tangerine and I-10, a 25 year tradition founded by the Marana Rotary was an oasis for every cyclist on the ride. Once again Eegees, ever generous met cyclists with their frozen desserts and volunteers held bikes, filled water bottles and distributed food. The signage was terrific. Everyone knew that Rotary was at their service.
At the finish line fiesta we were met at our very own finish line booth staffed by Rotarians serving sandwiches, drinks, snacks and fellowship. From start to finish it was a great event.
Let’s not forget that first and foremost what was a combination of fun and hard work for more than 100 Rotarians will help bring about the eradication of a terrible disease.
Plated Salad ~~ Mixed Greens and assortment of Fresh Garnishes with Ranch and Italian dressing
Braised Boneless Beef Ribs ~~ Beef Ribs slow cooked and braised with house made Spice Rub and Sauce, Mashed Potatoes, Chef's Roasted Fresh Seasonal Vegetables, Rolls and Butter, Chocolate Chip Cookies served family style, Coffee, Decaf or Iced tea
Vegetarian option if reserved in advance: Portobella Mushroom Napoleon with a Roasted Corn Spicy Salsa and topped with Fresh Herbs, Mashed Potatoes
Fresh Fruit Plate and Gluten Free meals are also available by advance reservation.
Let me introduce you to our new Executive Director, Dorinna York. Dorinna is athletic, personable and perhaps, best of all, highly familiar with Rotary activities. Dorinna worked for years as Administrative Assistant to Rotarian John Lewis while John was President of Southern Arizona Community Bank. During her tenure at the bank, John “volunteered” her to help reconcile the tickets purchased and money collected for the Tucson Classic Car Show for three years. She became familiar with the procedures used during the Car Show and worked closely with many Rotarians involved in the nuts and bolts operations of the Car Show.
After leaving the bank, Dorinna worked as Jim Click's Executive Assistant before accepting her present position as Executive Director of the Rotary Club of Tucson. Dorinna was raised in the suburbs of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. In her formative years she was an avid athlete. Field hockey and softball were her main sports. Like many of us, her first visit to Arizona impressed Dorinna and her husband, John. They settled in Tucson in November, 2007. Their daughter, Ashley, attended the University of Arizona and recently received her degree in Dietetics. Ashley is currently employed by the Trident Grill.
When Dorinna and her husband, John, first visited Arizona, they came to see their son, Matthew play baseball for Cochise College in Douglas. Matthew then went on to George Mason University where he obtained his degree and Masters Degree in Exercise Science. He is currently residing in Northern Virginia with his new bride, also an Exercise Science major. Matt is a strength and conditioning coach at a private school. Dorinna's husband, John, is a general contractor and volunteers as an Arizona Ranger. They both enjoy running, working out with weights and hiking. With working in a multitude of businesses in the past, Dorinna's diverse experience within these organizations and her previous behind the scenes Car Show involvement, we all can look forward to her skillful and pleasant service to our Club.
Thank you all so very much for supporting my ride, and Rotary’s efforts to end polio once and for all. As I mentioned when I asked, we are very, very close. Polio is now endemic in only three countries: Pakistan, Afghanistan and Northern Nigeria. Twenty five years ago hundreds of thousands of cases emerged each year and this year thus far, only 150.
The ride for me was very difficult this year. A week ago on a training ride with Kandy a bad cold set in and simply would not let go. The week was quite busy. Thursday night we attended an El Tour de Tucson dedication dinner. Friday evening we held a dinner of our own for our 90 Rotary cyclists, friends and family. Our cyclists came from as far away as Australia and we are led to believe that each year our Southern Arizona District inspires others to hold events of their own.
As of 4:30 Saturday morning the cold was as bad as ever, but I felt compelled to ride: for the kids, for the team of 90 that I led, for you my sponsors, and because I don’t like to give up. At mile 82 I met Kandy, who was riding the 85 mile distance. She waited simply to know that I was okay and then she took off. Seeing her kept me going. This was the aid station powered by Rotary with our partners Eegees giving out thousands of frozen desserts, and Cliff Bar. I was pretty tired at this point with 30 miles remaining. I just powered on, knowing that because of your generosity, every mile I rode raised enough money to immunize 125 children. I made it to the finish line accompanied by a few other Rotarians after a very long ride. All in all I raised close to $4,000 and our team together raised more than $370,000. I am told that is enough money for Rotary to immunize about one million children, who will never again fear this terrible disease.
This year, John Hewko, the CEO Rotary flew in and participated with his wife. They each also rode 111 miles and had a profound effect on our fund raising. John has already committed to ride with us again.
If I don’t yet have your check, please bring it to our next meeting or mail it to me at the address below. Checks made out to the Rotary Club of Tucson Foundation will ensure you get the tax deduction for your contribution.
Thank you all for your support, and for helping us eradicate this terrible, crippling disease.
Thank You For Your Support in the Fight to End Polio
Congratulations to Matt Blair, Darrell Stewart and Kevin Wong on your election to the 2013-2015 club board of directors. The entire membership thanks you for agreeing to serve in this very important capacity. And also, special thanks to Angela Baurley, Jennifer Hoffman and David Pashkow for agreeing to stand for election. The new board will be put to work immediately to complete the selection process for our president elect-elect (to serve as club president 7/1/14 - 6/30/15). The club will be introduced to the new “PEE” at our 12/12 meeting.
A couple of important dates to remember and activities to sign up for. Our annual Salvation Army bell ringing will take place 12/15. This is a great tradition in our club so please register for one of the time slots. Second, our annual holiday mixer will take place the evening of 12/19 at the DoubleTree. This will be in place of our regular meeting on that date. We have great entertainment planned and are working on a good raffle for that evening as well. We already have 85 registered so this promises to be a fun evening that you will not want to miss. Please remember you can (and are encouraged to) bring guests. More information is available on Clubrunner.
This week the club will be visited by the IRS. No, we are not being audited! Our program will be presented by Shawn Batsch and will deal with fraud and other challenges the IRS faces each year as they try to enforce our country’s tax collection system. I am sure this will be an interesting topic. Maybe we can even get some free tax advice???
This presentation will showcase various examples of employee theft/fraud to help business owners and/or operators identify weaknesses and initiate strong internal controls. It will, hopefully, help create an awareness of how other employers fell victim to employee theft and embezzlement. The presentation will also describe the responsibilities of the Criminal Investigation division of the IRS and the different types of criminal violations they investigate.
Shawn Batsch, Special Agent
Shawn Batsch is a Special Agent with Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI). Shawn currently works in IRS-CI’s International Operations section in the headquarters office in Washington D.C. and is based in Tucson, AZ. For the last five years, he supervised the Tucson group of special agents. Shawn started his Special Agent career in Chicago before moving to Tucson, AZ. He has worked on a wide variety of criminal investigations including embezzlements, securities and investment fraud, mortgage fraud, identity theft, insurance fraud, ponzi schemes, internet scams, public corruption, refund fraud, money laundering, and tax fraud. Shawn is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and has an accounting and finance degree from Florida State University. Shawn’s presentation will showcase various examples of employee theft/fraud to help business owners and/or operators identify weaknesses to initiate strong internal controls.
Back at our home base, PRESIDENT JIM LUBINSKI called the meeting to a rather raucous audience.
Inspiring us with words of inspiration was MIKE ORCUTT and from the back of the room was DREW VACTOR to leadus inthe pledge and a recorded song. What happened to all our piano players, they couldn’t all be out for the holiday.
The introduction of our guests and visitors was handled magnificently by DENNIS DRISCOLL.
A Happy Birthday was sent out to this week’s honorees, MARGARET HIGGINS and BRUCE TUNZE. Missing in action was SONNY SOLOT and PRESIDENT JIM asked that we keep SONNY in our thoughts and prayers as he is a little under the weather.
Next up on the agenda was KEVIN WONG with this week’s raffles, fines and announcements. First up was JON “You Can't Go Wrong With” WONG to remind us that he still has space on the marathon teams and to pass on the baton of now Captain Emeritus SID HIRSH to our new marathon team captain JENNIFER HOFFMAN and to thank SID for all his years of service and leadership to the ROTARY CLUB OF TUCSON MARATHON TEAM. Following JON was PAT LENNAN and a reminder to go to Club Runner and sign up for the ROTARY BELL RINGING DAY, Saturday December 15th. VIRGINIA LEAVITT reminded us of the Holiday Mixeron December 19th. PRESIDENT JIM filled in for ALAN SCHROPE and told us to sign up for the San Carlos trip and to get it in soon, that time is running out.
Getting our program under way, PRESIDENT JIM introduced our introducer PAULINE HECHLER whopresented our speaker Peggy Johnson, ExecutiveDirectorof The Loft Cinema. Peggy brought us up to date about all the new and exciting things that have happened at the Loft over the last 40 years and the new things that the Loft has in store for us in the future.
Bringing the meeting full circle PRESIDENT JIM laid fines upon STU GOLDMAN for his disruption of the meeting with a Joe Walsh ring tone and to GLENN EWING for ringing El Presidente’s phone and taking away time from the matters at hand. Brought to the podium for our most pressing announcement, ARNIE JACOBSEN announced our 3 new board members, MATT BLAIR, DARRELL STEWART and KEVIN WONG. Congratulations to them all and to the other fine Rotarians who threw their hats into the ring as well.
PRESIDENT JIM closed the meeting with a quote from Frederic Keonig and to have a safe and happy holiday weekend and to see everyone back at the DoubleTree next week.
Plated Salad ~~ Field Green Salad with Ranch and Italian dressing
Chicken Pot Pie ~~ made from scratch with Chicken, Carrots, Celery, Onions and Peas served in a Flaky Puff Pastry Crust, Roasted Wedge Potatoes, rolls and butter, Doubletree Chocolate Chip Cookies served family style, Coffee, Decaf or Iced Tea
Vegetarian option if reserved in advance: Portobella Mushroom Napoleon with a Roasted Corn Spicy Salsa and Topped with Fresh Herbs, Roasted Wedge Potatoes
Fresh Fruit Plate and Gluten Free meals are also available by advance reservation.
This is a big month for the nonprofit Loft Cinema. We are celebrating 40 years of providing Southern Arizona with great film. We opened a new third screen in a repurposed auto repair shop next door. We reached $1 million in our capital campaign, with almost 500 donors making 900 gifts. We celebrated the 10th anniversary of purchasing The Loft and transitioning it to a nonprofit on November 15, a decade during which a million people came through the doors.
Congratulations and thank you to all of the Rotary Polio Plus riders and donors in last Saturday’s el Tour de Tucson. 89 Riders from around the country and the world will end up raising in the neighborhood of $400,000 in the effort to eradicate Polio. It was an idea day for the ride (except for Matt Blair, sorry Matt) and the Rotary booth at the end of the ride provided nourishment and much needed massages for the riders. Gary Hirsch and his committee did an outstanding job. John Hewko, RI CEO, has already said he will be back to ride again next year.
Wednesday we will be electing three new club board members for Rotary years 2013-2015. It is very important that you cast your ballet. If you cannot be there in person on Wednesday, you can submit your votes via e-mail to Charlotte Harris no later than 5PM Tuesday. Thank you to the six members who have agreed to stand for election.
This week we will hear from Peggy Johnson regarding the Loft Theater. Peggy will be bringing us up to date on what is happening at the Loft and some of the future plans for expansion of the unique offerings brought to Tucson via this great organization.
If you are traveling or if I miss you Wednesday, have a great Thanksgiving!
Plated Salad ~~ Baby Spinach Salad with Red Onions, Spiced Pecans, Mandarin Orange Segments & Bleu Cheese Crumbles, Ranch and Italian dressing
Stuffed Turkey Breast ~~ Mashed Sweet Potatoes, Glazed Carrots, Traditional Cranberry Sauce, Doubletree Chocolate Chip Cookies served family style, Coffee, Decaf or Iced tea
Vegetarian option if reserved in advance: Polenta Cakes with Baby Spinach with Red Onion, Spiced Pecans, Mandarin Orange Segments & Bleu Cheese Crumbles, Ranch and Italian on the side. Grilled Polenta Cakes Finished with Olive Oil & Tyme.
Fresh Fruit Plate and Gluten Free meals are also available by advance reservation.
As the lost tribes found their way to the east side of town and the wandering soles slowly emerged, PRESIDENT JIM LUBINSKI called the meeting to order to a rather quiet and limited audience.
To inspire us with words of inspiration was PAULINE HECHLER and the pledge was led by JAN GREEN and the song was introduced by LESLIE GALLOWAY.
The introduction of our guests and visitors was handled magnificently by DARRELL STEWART.
The Birthday Gang of MARIANNE FREITAS and a better late than never, DICK GUTHRIE was assembled. MARIANNE gave us an update that the final Car Show tally would be forthcoming and DICK gave us a Birthday Salute.
Next up on the agenda was the tag team partners of CHARLOTTE HARRIS and BOB LOGAN to introduce our ever growing list of Paul Harris Fellows.With a list of 8 names in his hand, BOB began his usual roast of our recipients and presented his most generous gifts to the deserving folks. CHARLOTTE in her most gracious manner presented each of the 8 with their Paul Harris Pins and Certificates to wear and display proudly. Today’s recipients were VICKI JACOBS, TED FOSBERG, JERRY HARRIS, MARGIE & SCOTT VAUGHN, JIM MURPHY, MARIANNE FREITAS and VIRGINIA LEAVITT. PRESIDENT JIM followed up that there would be plenty more to come as the club had a list of about 100 more to go.
As our Sergeant at Arms, KEVIN WONG rounded up MATT BLAIR, to help auction off 2 pairs of U ofA Basketball tickets, I guess KEVIN hasn’t perfected the auctioneer routine just yet. With a long list of upcoming events our Sergeant at Arms ran through the list and their presenters in a timely fashion to keep our meeting on track. First up was JOE NEVIN and another Goodwill/Rotary Closet Cleaning Day on the 21st, followed by ALAN SCHROPE and the San Carlos Trip, December 7-10th and a call out for more Rotarians as we have adopted a new school. VIRGINIA LEAVITT announced the Holiday Mixer at the Javalina Cantina on the 19th of December and PRESIDENT JIM finished with our annual Salvation Army Bell Ringing on the 15th.
Taking back control PRESIDENT JIM proceeded to recognize one of our own ELLIE PATTERSON and presented her with a “Peace Through Service Coin” for her hard work in helping find our new Executive Director, DORINNA YORK.
Getting our program under way, PRESIDENT JIM introduced our introducer KEN GOODMAN whopresented our speaker, our own DR. WAYNE PEATE. As a founding member of JTED, WAYNEextolled us with the benefits of JTED and the thoughts that not all students are destined for college but for others it is a stepping stone to college.
PRESIDENT JIM closed the meeting with a quote from John Churton Collins and reminded us back at the DoubleTree next week and not to forget Closet Cleaning Day, before ending the meeting with the ceremonial toast.
The day before the El Tour de Tucson race, we had the opportunity to attend the Friday meeting of the Catalina Rotary Club to meet Rotary International General Secretary John Hewko and his wife, Margarita. John came to Tucson to ride the El Tour in support of Rotary’s International campaign to eradicate polio. John’s efforts in fund raising support from around the world may well raise over $300,000 and as a whole effort, we might surpass $350,000 in support of Polio Plus. District Governor Randy Brooks and many past District Governors and Assistant Governors were in attendance and some are riding the Tour. Our own Gary Hirsch has done a remarkable job and effort in raising funds and support as well as registering many local riders who will be raising money for the Polio Plus Campaign. Remarkable people do remarkable things. We won’t know the final tally until after the race but it will be nothing short of fantastic. We will hear next week about our Club’s riders and their respective times.
John gave a presentation that included the latest tally on the three remaining places where active cases of polio still exist. Those include Northern Nigeria, Pakistan, and Afghanistan. As of last January, India has had no reported cases of polio for two years. That is remarkable! According to John, we are still financially short about $350 million dollars from completing the mission. Since 1985, over $1.2 billion dollars has been raised and spent towards this effort to wipe out this disease.
One thing we see over and over is the tremendous leadership that heads up Rotary International, (google this guy!). John has been General Secretary for 16 months and has an incredible resume that includes speaking 6 languages and includes representing the US Government in negotiating foreign aid to over 36 countries. John opened up a Moscow office of his law firm prior to joining the Rotary International staff and is a charter member of the club in Kyiv, Russia (Moscow). His presentation also focused on his five priorities for Rotary: 1) Polio eradication; 2) continuing work on the Future Vision plan for Rotary; 3) membership (if we don’t stem the tide of declining membership in US Rotarians, we will drop from 30% of membership to 15% of membership worldwide in 20 short years); 4) develop new efforts to solve new humanitarian challenges; 5) develop a tool or tools to quantify the value of all we do and to get all clubs to think strategically. We are grateful for his leadership and his visit to Tucson and also grateful for the organizing efforts of Gary Hirsch and the team Tucson Rotary Club riders who raised funds which also included our “professional” rider, President Jim Lubinski. Jim did the 60 mile course and “smoked” their estimated time! Great job Prez and Rotarians. The hospitality booth was a blast to volunteer.
For those of you who missed it, local Tucson resident, Dr. Dharma Singh Khalsa gave a great presentation as a motivational speaker at the Friday luncheon during the recent Rotary District Conference. Dr. Khalsa is a personal friend of DG Randy Brooks and is President and Medical Director of the Alzheimer’s Research and Prevention Foundation based here in Tucson. His work has been published in many medical journals and in medical text books.
Dr. Khalsa’s key points during his presentation were summarized into four powerful steps: (1) Slow Down; (2) Supplement Your Diet; (3) Stimulate Your Mind and Body; (4) Serve Your Spirit.
I have to admit, I was all ready having problems with following #1 with figuring out ways to slow down in my life. Business issues, Rotary issues, cell phones, email, social media all come together to push us faster and become more stressed. We must slow down. It is healthier!
Supplements were a key recommendation to improving overall health and mind and spirit. Dr. Khalsa is a firm believer in eating organic foods and eating fish and avoiding my favorite food, AJ’s Cowboy Rib Eye. We should focus on a plant based diet and eat more steamed vegetables. Vitamin supplements mentioned include Vitamins B and Vitamin E.
Physical and mental exercise was Dr. Khalsa’s third powerful step to avoiding Alzheimer’s disease in your future. He recommended a minimum of 30 minutes a day (remember slowing down to make room for this important 30 minutes) and urged everyone to do both cardio and strength training. Exercise increases “good” blood chemicals to the brain and increases the part of your brain that produces base stem cells.
The fourth key ingredient to avoiding Alzheimer’s is to lead a more spiritual well being. This includes self acceptance, self confidence, personal growth, and positive relationships. All of these add purpose and meaning, peace of mind, and sustained personal growth.
People who have goals have a dramatically reduced risk of developing Alzheimers.
Dr. Khalsa’s last segment included many of the things we get out of being a part of the greatest service organization in the world, Rotary International. So, just being a member of the Tucson Rotary Club is all ready reducing your chances of getting this terrible disease!!
The Keys to a Healthy Life and Prevention of Alzheimers
Pima JTED provides marketable job skills at graduation for 15,500 high school students in all Pima County school districts. Programs include nursing, web design, firefighting, culinary, auto, building trades, cosmetology, precision manufacturing and more. Courses are free and available to all: public, private, home school, and special needs. Graduates can use their skills to join the work force in their chosen field and pay their way for college. JTED’s job training course for teens with autism and special needs has a 95% job placement record (90% of people with autism are unemployed.).
Just when you thought the elections were over, we still have an important one to decide. Last week you were introduced to the slate of candidates who will stand for election to our club board with their 2 year terms beginning next July. The strong field includes Angela Baurley, Matt Blair, Jennifer Hoffman, David Pashkow, Darrell Stewart and Kevin Wong. Thank you to the six of you for agreeing to serve if elected. More information on each candidate will be distributed at our next meeting with the vote to take place on the 21st. Following the election of our three new directors, next on the agenda will be the announcement of our new PEE in early December. Please make certain you will be at our 11/21 meeting to cast your vote.
Have you followed up with any of the guests/potential members you brought to our economic summit meeting a couple of weeks ago? If not, please do. Some of you have told me that their guests were impressed and will consider joining our club. We need to constantly be recruiting new members to ensure the future of our club.
This week we will hear from Wayne Peate on the JTED program in Tucson. This program focusing on technical education in our high schools was started several years ago and Wayne will be giving us an update on its progress.
President Jim opened the meeting, and KEN LIGHT presented the invocation. Then DREW VACTOR led us in an inspiring video edition of the Star Spangled Banner.
Following our lunch fellowship, CAM MOORE introduced the visitors. Birthday Rotarians JUDY KEAGY and JACK MAREK were recognized, and LESLIE GALLOWAY introduced new member JILL MADDEN.
KEVIN WONG asked MATT BLAIR to auction KEVIN’S father, JON’S (sic) football tickets, and RICHARD WHITE told the club about the Red Cross’ efforts and needs for aid in hurricane relief for the East Coast.
Past president CHARLOTTE HARRIS presented a Paul Harris Fellowship to Lee Seagondollar from his brother JAN. Then we heard from JOE NEVIN…closet cleaning day, GARY HIRSCH and HUGH THOMPSON...Polio Plus bike ride, TOM ANDREWS…Sabino Canyon hike, and PAULINE HECHLER…the car show website.
President JIM congratulated CARMEN BERMUDEZ for being a “Woman of Influence”, and Past President JONI CONDIT introduced ANGELA BAURLEY, MATT BLAIR, JENNIFER HOFFMAN, DAVID PASHKOW, DARRELL STEWART and KEVIN WONG as the slate for election to our board of directors.
President JONI then introduced our speakers, Andrea Whitsett from the ASWho? Morrison Institute for Public Policy, and Clint Mable, President of the Southern Arizona Community Foundation. They discussed using data indicators to help our communities head in a constructive direction.
At last!! President JIM announced that we have hired Dorinna York as our new Executive Director, and that she will be introduced at the meeting next week.
DON’T FORGET NEXT WEEK WE MEET AT THE RADISSON SUITES@ SPEEDWAY AND WILMOT.
We often hear the call for data-driven civic dialogue and evidence based decision-making, but too often people and organizations lack the research capacity to make this a reality. This Tucson Rotary presentation will showcase two community indicators tools that address the need for easy access to nonpartisan, unbiased information about the state and its communities. The Arizona Indicators and Southern Arizona Indicators Web sites empower users to assess the size and scope of community needs, identify assets, track trends, and measure progress towards shared community goals. This presentation will also highlight key findings from the Arizona Directions statewide report card, which examines Arizona’s strengths and weaknesses in 4 critical areas: job creation, education, health and infrastructure.
Andrea Whitsett, Project Manager, Arizona Indicators, Morrison Institute for Public Policy - ASU
Andrea Whitsett is a senior policy analyst and project manager at Morrison Institute for Public Policy, an applied research institute at Arizona State University. Whitsett manages the Arizona Indicators project, a comprehensive community indicator system that shows Arizona’s competitive position and trajectory. Under Whitsett’s leadership, the project has gained widespread recognition and was recently cited by both the U.S. Government Accountability Office (U.S. GAO) and the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD).
As project manager, Whitsett works closely with university scholars, state agencies and community leaders to identify meaningful metrics, collect and analyze data and develop interactive content for the project’s dynamic Web site. She oversees the project budget, supervises staff and manages contracts with multiple entities.
During her tenure, Whitsett has guided the publication of more than 40 policy briefs including the Arizona Directions statewide report card. She frequently presents key research findings to business executives, nonprofit leaders, and academics.
In addition to her direct research and project management responsibilities, Whitsett is a member of the Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce’s DATOS Research Committee and The Arizona We Want Research Advisory Committee. She also belongs to the Arizona Cultural Data Project Taskforce, a project of Pew Charitable Trusts.
Whitsett is engaged in the community as a member of the Florence Crittenton board of directors where she currently serves as vice chair of the programs committee. She is also on the board of directors for the Arizona Center for Afterschool Excellence. She has served on grant review panels for the Arizona Community Foundation and worked as a volunteer for the Arthritis Foundation and the Purple Ribbon Council.
Whitsett holds a Bachelor of Arts in American Studies from Yale University where she was awarded an Amy Rossborough Fellowship through the Yale Women’s Center. During her undergraduate years, Whitsett worked at the Yale Center for International and Area Studies and held an internship at Children’s Action Alliance. She also completed an internship at Family Place where she supervised and documented visits between children and their nonresidential parents. Whitsett holds a Master’s of Nonprofit Studies degree from Arizona State University.
What a great program and turn out we had last week. I was told by one of the speakers before the event started that there was “quite a buzz” about this program in the community. We had around 150 guests, many of whom experienced Rotary and our club for the first time. I think we left a good first impression! Now we have to follow through with those that attended to cultivate any prospective new members that may have been in the group. Congratulations to all of the team that helped put this together and to those of you who brought guests to show off the best Rotary Club in the World!
For those of you who attended the district conference last weekend, I am sure you found it rewarding. The speech on Friday from former RI president, Rick King was possibly the best speech of its kind I have ever heard. Truly a gifted and motivational speaker. And the music provided by vocal coral was also inspiring. The breakout sessions had numerous good topics and the tailgate party Friday night was packed. If you went to any or all, truly time well spent.
More good news, we have hired a new Executive Director and they will start in the office this Thursday. We will introduce our new ED to the club at our meeting on 11/14 which, by the way, is at the Radisson hotel on Speedway just east of Wilmot.
This week our program will be “Arizona Indicators” and it will deal with the overall health of the State of Arizona as measured by a specific - yet broad set of indicators. It looks like it will be another one you will not want miss.
Scott Vaughan, Assistant Vice President, Wealth Management Advisor with Merrill Lynch, 18-yr. Rotarian, Past Rotary Club of Tucson President, 2009-2010, prior Vice President & General Manager at KGUN TV9, and University of Arizona BA and MBA. Scott and Margy celebrate 47 years of marriage.
Scott, thank you for your sponsorship of Merrill Lynch in the RCoT Tucsotarian and on the RCoT Website. I single clicked on the ML Bull and obtained some pretty impressive information on the Vaughan, Lewis, and Short Team. The Client Commitment statement reinforced the trust that I personally have had with Merrill Lynch and their Financial Advisors over many years. What would you want to say to other Rotarians in support of sponsorship?
Club Sponsorship is an honor and an opportunity to step up and do something extra for the club—to publicly stand for Rotary. A small quarterly fee goes for club administration and helps to hold down dues. You click on the Merrill Lynch Bull and you immediately arrive at my ML Homepage. Come on in. Why doesn’t every member in business want to be a sponsor?
Scott, please say a few words about being a Merrill Lynch Wealth Management Advisor.
I work as a team with my two Wealth Management partners assuring our clients that there will be no short term surprises that would cause a disruption in the service, the financial results or satisfaction they expect. Every client knows every team member. We are trained and experienced to address the financial needs of clients’ assets of $500,000 to $5 million. I’m paid by the firm, but I work for my clients’ financial success whether planning for retirement or the grandkids’ college, risk reduction, business and mortgage lending.
Client relationships are built on trust and confidence by engaging with people over time, doing important work where my skills, attributes and values can be seen. Many of my client relationships will be lifetime friendships. Old and new clients will have my service and devotion for years to come.
I understand that several years ago you were instrumental in starting up a Rotary club in Palm Springs. You were also a member of the Catalina Rotary in Tucson. With your experiences in Rotary, what would you say makes the Rotary Club of Tucson so special and so distinctive?
Maybe distinctive; maybe not. In my year I met twelve times with the other Rotary club presidents of the Tucson area—all strong, committed and passionate leaders; all about service, like us; smaller projects ,yes. Some even struggled to make ends meet. Our own distinction is about two things: scale and heritage. We aspire to and engage bigger and more global service opportunities. Plus, our 91 years of accomplishment continue to resonate with business and community leaders. On balance, I am more inclined to embrace and appreciate every Rotary Club rather than brag about my club’s “greatest” ness.
Well said, Scott! I often see you “out and about” with Margy and your attractive 8 year old granddaughter, Gracie. How do you juggle family, Merrill Lynch, and Rotary responsibilities? Is there a sage bit of advice you can give young Rotarians in dealing with their priorities?
I look at Rotary and family two ways. If you have family, what an opportunity to communicate and share your values! I’m so fortunate to continue to share this extraordinary experience with family members. These are my best years yet, partly because of Rotary and that very dynamic. Margy’s support and feedback repeatedly helped me rise to the challenges. “This was the year that Scott really learned how to give,” Margy often said referring to my year as Rotary President. I’m sure she’s right. For club members whose family is not here or is not nearby, guess what, brother? We are it. In the most joyous sense, I have seen around me and personally enjoyed family-like support and love among our own members.
How can we as Rotarians help to strengthen RCoT and continue to derive “value added” benefits?
Our club’s future is driven by generational shifts to accommodate service minded younger leaders who will shape the club to meet their needs. We can help a little today by welcoming their ideas and their work while embracing how they communicate. We’re moving well in that direction.
Your Arizona auto license plate says SAVOR. What is that all about?
SAVOR is a verb meaning “to enjoy something slowly and completely.” I want my license plate to provide a command or suggestion to humanity around fulfillment in life -- a complete sentence in seven or fewer letters. It’s also an Arizona Wildcat plate, so this year it honors the NCAA Baseball Champs.
Do you have any secrets you would wish to share?
So many. Here’s one: August 2012, my first TATTOO.
Scott, I know you to have an excellent sense of humor. I know you to enjoy the “photo moment” with your camera, so to speak. I know you to be a faithful UA sports fan and supporter of UA’s academic and cultural influence. Your community involvement on multiple Tucson boards is extensive. We asRotarians only hope that we can have the same appreciation, the same affection, and the same sense of duty for Tucson and our community.
Thank you, Scott, for the Sponsor Spotlight.
One of my better investments. Thank you, Jan. Hey, if man evolved from monkeys and apes, why do we still have monkeys and apes? And if a mime gets arrested, do they tell him he has the right to remain silent? Just wondering.
As announced at our October 24, 2012 meeting, PAT ZUMBUSCH has been named Chair of the 2014 Tucson Classics Car Show, to follow 2013 Chair CHUCK SAWYER! Pat has been an integral part of the Car Show team since part way through the first car show in 2007 when he came on board to mentor and replace John Blumberg as Car Show Treasurer, and he has been key to forming our financial process for the Car Show ever since.
Pat joined our club November 5, 2003 and is an involved and active member. He served on our Board as our Club Treasurer from 2008 to 2011, continues to serve as our Car Show Treasurer, is on our Foundation Board, and serves on the Program, Work Projects, Invocation, and Scholarship committees. Pat and wife Peggy are both originally from Minnesota, have been married for 33 years, and have two daughters and a son.
Pat’s career began as a CPA with Ernst and Young. In 1989 they moved to Tucson where Pat served as President of Global Atmospherics until they were bought out by a Finland company. In 2008, after a year as CEO of the Community Food Bank, Pat found his passion in the financial services industry and in 2011 formed his own financial planning company, Wellspring Financial Services, which he is now expanding.
It was a spooky day at Rotary today! Everyone dressed up except JOHN WANG. What a party pooper! Our head table was full of important critters and the room was loaded with gooly guests. If you missed it, you missed the best luncheon yet! We had our usual invocation with a fabulous U S of A moment while Lee Greenwood sang "Proud to be an American". Once we all wiped our tears, our fearless vampire, I meant leader, JIM LUBINSKI gave a nice pitch on "What is Rotary".
MARY MARTIN introduced Dan Marries from KOLD-TV who introduced our Panel of Politicians and....
LET THE GAMES BEGIN!!!
First question will go down in history because all panelist "agreed" (somewhat) that within the Metropolitan Government they need unity and Regionalism and basically it’s a good thing. Jonathan Rothschild, Mayor: Chuck Huckelberry, Pima County Administrator: Mike Varney, President Tucson Metro Chamber and Joe Snell, President TREO (last two panelists are not politicians; I just wanted to see if you are paying attention or even reading this). Second, question, all agreed Education is essential to not only our kids but to growth in our labor force and jobs!! Prop 204.
Third question revolved around bringing jobs to Tucson and if you don't know the answer to that one....I'm not telling you! Fourth question brought the fangs out in the audience as the words "Rio Nuevo" were whispered. And if you don't know the answer to that one, well I'm not telling you either!! Fifth and final question was a discussion about changing the attitudes of businesses on Tucson so they will invest in our community, i.e. growth, jobs and more necks to bite. I meant more blood for the blood bank!
JIM closed the meeting with a perfect toast from John Quincy Adams and all the little vampires scurried off to their caves.
President JIM LUBINSKI, called the meeting to order and encouraged everyone to contribute to the scholarship cup. SUZANNE LAWDER, did the invocation and lead along with Jim the pledge and song with GARY GETHMANN, on piano. CHARLIE MEAKER introduced the ten guests. Happy Birthday to ALLYN BULZOMI and MARK IRVIN. CHARLOTTE HARRIS introduced new member, JIM STUDWELL. KEVIN WONG conducted the raffle. PAT LENNAN announced the winner of the rubber chicken award, MARY FREITIS. LEE ATKEN announced $345.00 was raised at the tip bar from the car show and $5325.00 from the silent auction JIM LUBINSKI announced that registration is still open for the economic summit. You can register online. He also announced that PAT ZUMBUSCH is the 2014 car show chair. The District conference is this coming Friday and Saturday. Our club is hosting a hospitality suite at the hotel, starting at 5:30pm. Registration is at the door. Mia Hanson from the Presidio Club announced their November 3rd fundraiser, Presidio Passports.
Dr. Smith, a Professor of Planetary Science at the U of A, updated us about the 2016 U of A led mission that will be launch to a nearby asteroid named RQ36. The goal of the mission is examine the asteroids surface. Investigating the formation of the solar system, the kind of matter that exists and how life evolved in the solar system. The project OSIRIS-Rex mission has a budget of $800 million dollars of which $200 million will be reinvested in the Tucson community
What a great presentation from former member Dr. Peter Smith last Wednesday. It’s amazing what is being done at the U of A. And the fact that it should bring $200 million to the local economy is an added bonus.
Hopefully many of you will have attended the district conference over the weekend and have come back motivated with new ideas and ways we can help to improve our club. Remember, the more you put into Rotary, the more you will get out in return. I will be anxious to hear from those of you who were able to attend.
This week is one I have been looking forward to for several months. Our program dealing with the future of the Tucson economy should be very interesting. This will likely be the most attended meeting we have had in some time. As I am writing this we are approaching 250 registered with several days to go. I hope you all registered and so you do not miss out on this special event. If you are attending, consider sitting at a table with some or our guests. We are having our board and several of our past presidents try to sit at different tables so we can make sure our guests feel welcome and can have any questions they may have about Rotary and our club answered. This will be a great chance for all of us to promote/show off our club and attract new members. We are filming the program courtesy of Rick Rose and his team at Film Creations. Not sure yet how we will use this but, might be a great thing to promote on social media. It may also be available to view by those members who will be unable to attend.
The Ride to End Polio is fast approaching. Many of you have generously sponsored one of our members who will be riding in the event. The goal of raising $200,000 is not out of reach. Many thanks to Gary Hirsch and his team for driving this event. I look forward to participating.
Mr. Huckelberry is a native Tucsonan. He graduated from Flowing Wells High School and earned a Bachelor of Science in Mining Engineering, as well as a Master of Science in Civil engineering, from The University of Arizona. He is a Registered Professional Engineer and Registered Land Surveyor in the State of Arizona.
Mr. Huckelberry began his career with Pima County in 1974 as a Field Engineer in the Department of Transportation. He became the Director of the Department of Transportation and Flood Control District in 1979 and held that position until 1986. He served as the Assistant County Manager for Public.
Works from 1986 to 1993; and since 1993, he has held the position of County Administrator. As County Administrator, Mr. Huckelberry manages a $1.3 billion budget and a staff of 8,000 employees under the direction of the Pima County Board of Supervisors.
Jonathan Rothschild, Mayor
Born and raised in Tucson, Jonathan is a native Tucsonan. His grandmother came to Tucson in 1942 and opened Valley Fair, a used furniture store on South 6th Avenue. His father attended Tucson High School and the University of Arizona.
A graduate of Canyon del Oro High School, Kenyon College and the University of New Mexico Law School, Jonathan served as a law clerk for the United States District Court Judge Alfredo Marquez. He then joined the law firm of Mesch, Clark & Rothschild, where he served as managing partner from 2001 to 20011. In addition to his own law practice helping businesses and individuals, Jonathan was responsible for the day to day management a of 21-attorney firm.
Joe Snell, President, Tucson Regional Economic Opportunities
As President and CEO of Tucson Regional Economic Opportunities, Inc. (TREO), Joe Snell brings a 25-year record of outstanding achievements to the agency coordinating all economic development initiatives in Southern Arizona. His knowledge in building strategic, competitive, and balanced business development strategies has resulted in local and national recognition for his unique ability to start up and reengineer regional economic development groups, creating stronger economies in high-growth communities.
Previously Snell served as president of the Metro Denver Network where he focused on the development of long‐range strategies and the creation of infrastructure designed to capture high wage opportunities. Ultimately these efforts positioned Denver as a leading technology center and metro Denver was consistently ranked as one of the nation’s fastest growing markets in high wage job creation.
Snell is a faculty member of the annual Arizona Economic Development Course, accredited by the International Economic Development Council. Past involvement includes serving on the Board of Arizona Economic Resource Commission, the Board
Michael V. Varney, Tucson Metro Chamber
Mike Varney became the president & CEO of the Tucson Metro Chamber in May 2011. Prior to that he served as the president and CEO of the North Las Vegas Chamber of Commerce and the vice president of marketing of the Las Vegas Chamber of Commerce. In his current role he is responsible for all aspects of the organization’s operations including strategic planning, product development, government affairs, communications, research, finance and member services.
Mr. Varney is a native of Madison, Wisconsin, He is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin, having earned a bachelor of arts degree in Communication Arts.
He is currently a member of the executive committee of the board of directors of the Western Association of Chamber Executives and is also on the board of directors at the Arizona Chamber Executives and the American Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE).
Dan Marries of KOLD-TV
Find a job you love and you’ll never work a day in your life. That’s exactly how I feel about my chosen career in journalism. I’ve been anchoring and reporting stories at KOLD News 13 since June, 1999.
I moved to Tucson from Yuma, AZ where I was the main anchor for KYMA-TV. Prior to Yuma I spent a year at the CBS affiliate in Mankato, MN.
I got my start in television news at KREX-TV in Grand Junction, CO. That’s also where I earned by BA in Mass Communications/Broadcast Journalism from Mesa State College.
When I’m not working I love spending time with my nine year old son Kurtis. You can find us wandering around 4th Avenue or hiking up “A” Mountain. Sabino Canyon and Mount Lemmon are our favorite spots for exploring and camping. One of my Favorite past times is throwing a steak on the BBQ and hanging out with friends and family. I also enjoy scuba diving. Iam a certified PADI Rescue Diver.
"The Future of the Tucson Economy" Panel Discussion
What a great presentation from former member Dr. Peter Smith last Wednesday. It’s amazing what is being done at the U of A. And the fact that it should bring $200 million to the local economy is an added bonus.
Hopefully many of you will have attended the district conference over the weekend and have come back motivated with new ideas and ways we can help to improve our club. Remember, the more you put into Rotary, the more you will get out in return. I will be anxious to hear from those of you who were able to attend.
This week is one I have been looking forward to for several months. Our program dealing with the future of the Tucson economy should be very interesting. This will likely be the most attended meeting we have had in some time. As I am writing this we are approaching 250 registered with several days to go. I hope you all registered and so you do not miss out on this special event. If you are attending, consider sitting at a table with some or our guests. We are having our board and several of our past presidents try to sit at different tables so we can make sure our guests feel welcome and can have any questions they may have about Rotary and our club answered. This will be a great chance for all of us to promote/show off our club and attract new members. We are filming the program courtesy of Rick Rose and his team at Film Creations. Not sure yet how we will use this but, might be a great thing to promote on social media. It may also be available to view by those members who will be unable to attend.
The Ride to End Polio is fast approaching. Many of you have generously sponsored one of our members who will be riding in the event. The goal of raising $200,000 is not out of reach. Many thanks to Gary Hirsch and his team for driving this event. I look forward to participating.
For those of you who were not present when the winning ticket (#13787) for this year's Tucson Classics Car Show raffle was drawn by Mayor Jonathan Rothschild, we were disappointed the winner was not present. A phone call from the stage and ten minutes later, the winner stood before us, excited about his win! His name is Ron Rodriguez. He bought ONE TICKET at a Padres game.
Ron is single with an adult daughter. He was born in New Mexico, but moved to Arizona when he was one year old and was raised in San Manuel where his father was an electrician for a mining company. He served in the US Marine Corp. for seven years and has lived in Tucson for the past twenty-seven years. He works for Concrete Designs, a precast concrete company.
Although he loves Corvettes and used to own a 1979 Corvette, he opted for the cash. Anyone want to buy a beautiful, red, 2001 Corvette convertible - priced at $18,500? Call MIKE ANDERSON at 299-3407!! Once the red Corvette has been sold, Mike will begin searching for a new raffle car for the 2013 show.
When BRET HUSTON was our club President (1999 – 2000), he gave President-Elect MIKE ANDERSON (2000-01) the task of creating afundraiser that would help us increase our Foundation corpus to one million dollars so that we could undertake more significant service projects for our community.
As our club's first fundraising committee chairman and originator of our first-ever auction in 1986, Mike was not new to Rotary fundraising. Although that first auction of donated items netted Rotary Club of Tucson $20,000, and provided the seed money to fund our Foundation, Mike's vision for the 1999-2001 fundraiser was far more ambitious.
With his expertise in buying and renovating houses, Mike suggested RCoT build a house and raffle it off by selling $10 raffle tickets. He had already purchased a property for his company to renovate which he sold to RCoT at his cost, and the task began.
Now, stop and think. The second year when we began the actual construction, Mike was our new President. Like ARNIE JACOBSEN with the Car Show, Mike ran his own business, organized and executed the “10 Bucks Wins a Dream Home!" fundraiser, at the same time as he led our club as our President. Mike and Arnie are our only two Presidents to have achieved such a task, and with phenomenal success!
The property had a small house on the rear of a rather large lot in town, to which we built another beautiful, new 1,600' house in front making the old house the “guest house”. Members helped whenever their talents allowed, providing more fun and fellowship.
We were fortunate to have members in our club with construction expertise. Mike organized his team of JOHN MCCALEB (McCaleb Construction and President 2002-03), TIM PUNTENNEY (Cobre Building), who along with Mike, led the way. They were supported by MARSHALL DENNINGTON’S heating and cooling expertise (TEMCO Air Environmental), ARNIE JACOBSEN'S (Lucky Wishbone/Sunland Foods) promotional skills, generous community businesses who donated products and services, five other Rotary clubs who helped sell our tickets (receiving a share of the ticket cost for their clubs), local media, and STEVE CHRISTY (then owner of Steve Christy Chrysler-Jeep) who generously donated a brand new Jeep for us to give as a second prize.
We sold 35,000 ten dollar chances for someone to win “our” house, and in the end basked in a net profit of $249,000! We had a beautiful dinner at Lowes Ventana Resort (our Valentine’s Day party) where the winning ticket was drawn. The winner was member Pete Raguzin’s daughter! The quarter million dollar net pushed our foundation corpus over the million dollar mark and accomplished many objectives. Most of all, this gave us the financial strength to undertake the Reading Seed program and it gave us the confidence that we could successfully undertake major fundraising events in the future for the benefit of our community.
A simple "thank you" to MIKE and SUSAN ANDERSON seems inadequate for their continuing generosity and dedication to RCoT. They continued this year by donating $5,000 toward the purchase of our beautiful raffle car, and again hosted a luncheon at their beautiful Mt. Lemmon cabin after a Rotary hike on the mountain on October 21, 2012.
PRESIDENT JIM LUBINSKI called the meeting to order and reminded everyone to sit with or at least stop by their team captains table with any questions about their Car Show duties. PAT ZUMBUSCH then did a Car Show themed invocation follow by DAN GUARE and SONNY SOLOT leading us in the Pledge and singing of "America" accompanied by GARY HIRSCH on the piano. PRES JIM then reminded us to fill the scholarship cups and enjoy our fellowship lunch break. Once we got going again, RICK WELCH filled in to introduce guests and visiting Rotarians. Next it was Birthday time where we wished DAVE GALLAHER (Pres. Elect), JERRY HARRIS (Car Show ticket selling extraordinaire) and RICK ROSE (Creative Producing extraordinaire) Happy Birthdays. Our fabulous PAST PRES Joni Condit missed her birthday wishes since her husband Bill had some health issues they were dealing with that day. But I am happy to report that I saw Bill Condit at the Car Show on Saturday and he is fine!
After PRES JIM reminded us to sign up for our 10/31 meeting and MIKE ANDERSON'S lunch/hike/post Car Show Celebration on 10/21, he turned over the mic to the hard working and wonderful Car Show co-chairs MARIANNE FREITAS and TOM STRASBURG to talk about "Car Show Prep". We watched some hilarious video's featuring MATT BLAIR, KEITH COBB, ROGER HARWELL, JOE PENNINGTON as Paul Harris, CHRIS EDWARDS and Jim Click. We also heard from JOE PENNINGTON, ARNIE JACOBSEN, CHUCK SAWYER, DOT KRET and then JON WANG led us in a rousing chant. PRES JIM closed the meeting reminding us that we are dark next Wed. (10/17/12) and to have a GREAT Car Show!!!
Dr. Smith is the Thomas R. Brown Distinguished Chair of Integrated Science and a Professor of Planetary Science at the UA. He is a long term Tucson resident and previously a member of the Tucson Rotary Club. Professionally, he has been involved in missions to Mars building the camera for Mars Pathfinder in 1997 and leading the Phoenix Mission in 2008. These activities led to NASA bestowing on him the Exceptional Scientific Achievement Medal in 2010, NASA’s highest recognition. Smith is now leading the imaging science on the new OSIRIS-REx mission to return samples from a nearby asteroid.
In September 2016 a University-of-Arizona-led mission will launch to a nearby asteroid named RQ36. The goal of the mission is to examine the asteroid surface, find the most interesting surface material, touch down on its surface, collect a “handful,” then return to Earth in 2023 and land a capsule containing pristine asteroid samples for examination in our laboratories. As the science lead for the cameras, I will be responsible for providing the eyes that map the asteroid and identify the most scientifically interesting sites for the sampling maneuver. Having started the program in August 2011, we are rapidly honing in on the flight designs for the cameras that will be built here at the UA. Furthermore, the mission will be operated during its 7 years in space from the old Phoenix building on Sixth Avenue. RQ36 is a carbonaceous asteroid interesting for the organic materials associated with this class; it may give us clues to the formation of the solar system and the origin of life.
Plated Salad ~ Green Dinner Salad with Ranch and Balsamic Vinegrette dressings on the table
Chicken Picatta ~ Chicken Breast Cutlets, dredged in seasoned flour, pan seared served with a Sauce of Butter, Lemon Juice, Capers, Parsley and White Wine, Wild Rice Blend, Seasonal Squash Medley, Rolls and Butter, Doubletree Chocolate Chip Cookies served family style, Coffee, Decaf or Iced Tea
Vegetarian option if reserved in advance: Vegetable Wrap
Fresh Fruit Plate and Gluten Free meals are also available by advance reservation.
Dr. Alan Rogers and his car he built and anticipates entering into the Tucson Classic Car Show.
I first met Alan Rogers when he was an internal medicine resident at the University of Arizona Health Sciences Center in the early 1980’s. I also knew his wife Susan before she became his wife as she was a Hospital Sales Representative for Merck. Alan married Susan and they have four children (three daughters and a son). One daughter is now in medical school in Chicago. I asked Alan why he joined Rotary and he replied that, at the time, it was to make business acquaintances. Alan has been a member of the medical community and active on many Boards and is currently the President of the Pima County Medical Society.
Alan is the doctor’s doctor. One of his patients was the former head of the Department of Medicine at the University of Arizona Health Sciences Center, Dr. Ruben Bressler. I happened to be in the office one time when Dr. Bressler was being seen by Alan. I observed that Alan was a little bit on the nervous side and not his normal calm, collective self. I commented on his demeanor and he explained that he wanted to make sure that he did everything correctly for his former professor. It is no surprise that Alan has been named as one of Tucson’s Best Doctors in the Tucson Lifestyle Magazine several years in a row.
Alan enjoys skiing, golfing (which he started while attending Arvada High School in Arvada, CO.), traveling and fixing things (I witnessed him using a screwdriver in the office and fixing some plumbing as well). Alan is also a cyclist and will be racing in El Tour de Tucson on the District Rotary Team to end polio.
While Alan started Rotary with the intention of making business acquaintances, it is his true humanitarianism that has kept him involved with Rotary and our community.
MIKE ORCUTT offered a thoughtful invocation to begin the meeting. ERNIE "buon giorno" MINCELLA led us in the pledge and the singing of “America the Beautiful” with GARY GETHMANN as pianist.
STACIA DECKER introduced a number of guests. Happy Birthday recognition was given to PETER AKMAJIAN and JIM MURPHY both who were sitting proudly at head table.
Paul Harris Follow presentations were made by CHARLOTTE HARRIS and MARIANNE FREITAS as follows: BOB WEBB (+1); JOHN LEWIS (+1); JACK PARRIS; RICHARD FLYNN (+3); PETER RASKOW; PAT RASKOB (+3): ELLIE PATTERSON (+4) for herself and on behalf of her husband, Tom. Congratulations, all!
KEVIN WONG acted as Sargent-at-Arms and offered up a number of donated prizes. Other announcements were made by: PAT RASKOB regarding the success of last year’s Community Grants; LEE AITKEN regarding the Friday Night Dinner and Silent Auction; BOB SHAFF on Car Show Ticket Sales and the sales prowess of JERRY HARRIS and TOM ANDREWS regarding a Post-Car Show Celebration at MIKE ANDERSON’s home in Summerhaven on Sunday 10/21.
PRESIDENT JIM again reminded us to register for the Economic Summit program on Wednesday 10/31.
YVONNE ERVIN introduced our speaker Tom Zoellner, native Tucsonan, professor of English and author of “A Safeway in America”, who – having flown in from Los Angeles to address the group – offered an interesting historical perspective on the Oracle/Ina intersection and La Toscana Village which was the venue of the tragic event of the January 8th shootings.
It’s finally here (almost), the 2012 Tucson Classics Car Show. So many members have been putting in long hours preparing for our club’s signature event. The Classics Car Show provides more positive publicity for our club and the good work we do than almost all of our other projects combined. It is the highest profile endeavor we undertake each year. Without the strong participation of members, this event would not be possible.
With a little luck, this will be the best show yet. We have seen increases in sponsorships and are on pace to sell more tickets this year than any past show. The committees and their chairs heading up all of the various components are to be commended and congratulated for the results of all of their hard work. Great job! Wednesday we will have our final planning session during our regular meeting. Please plan to be there as important information will be shared.
Two other things not to forget, the district conference will be held at the DoubleTree on 10/26-27. Some great speakers and workshops are planned and don’t forget to attend the “tailgate party’ on the evening of 10/26. And second, our big program, the “Future of Tucson’s Economy” will be on 10/31. We already have 26 paid guests registered and we just put the word out Wednesday. Please do not forget that ALL members must register, in advance, for this meeting. Do it before we sell out.
The preparation of the lemonade is very simple: Blending 1 lemon in 20 oz cold water. 1) Wash 1 lemon, cut it in 4 to 8 small pieces. 2) Pour 20 oz of cold water in a blender and add 1 teaspoon of sugar or a sweetener, mix well for few seconds. 3) Add the pieces of lemon to the cold water in the blender and mix until the lemon pieces are cut to very tiny pieces. 4) Pour the lemonade in a glass through a mesh strainer or tea strainer (to retain the pieces of peel). 5) Drink it with food. You can add a little bit of sugar or sweetener based on your taste and preference. Drink it within a couple of hours.
Tom Zoellner, Author and Professor of English at Chapman University, a fifth generation Arizonan and a former speechwriter for Gabrielle Giffords, explains how the corner of Oracle and Ina holds many invisible surprises, even to those who may have driven past it ten thousand times, and also for those who feel uncomfortable going there. The international media swarmed down on Tucson after the Jan. 8 shootings and broadcast the city's misfortune around the clock. La Toscana Village at the corner of Oracle and Ina was, for a time, the most photographed strip mall in the world. With its chain stores and faux-Tuscany facade, it looked ordinary and sun-faded -- completely of a piece for postwar Sunbelt architecture. But dig a little deeper at that corner and you could see a surprisingly rich dendocronology of how Tucson grew up in the modern age, its secret history with the mafia, its land politics and clues to some of the huge successes and persistent dysfunctions of the modern state of Arizona.
KEITH COBB gave the invocation. CHUCK SAWYER led the song with GARY GETHMANN assisting on the piano.
KEVIN WONG introduced a number of guests. We wished RAY WEICK happy birthday although he wasn’t sitting at the head table.
PHIL GUTT did a fantastic introduction of new member, GARY STOE. We learned that GARY STOE is Sales VP for Kachina Business Solutions, is from Lancaster, PA and is interested in hiking, camping, and golf.
KEVIN WONG started the announcements by raffling off two tickets to the football game donated by his “father” DR. JON WANG. Other announcements included DAVE GALLAHER introducing Eric Peng, KEN TUCKER pitching Boy Scout popcorn, GARY HIRSCH promoting the El Tour Polio Plus ride, DAVE GALLAHER again promoting the Rotary district conference, PAT LENNAN encouraging us to have the chicken dinner Friday night before the car show, and BOB SHAFF teaching us how to sell car show tickets.
PRESIDENT JIM reminded us to register for the Economic Summit program on October 31st.
MARY MARTIN introduced a fabulous program featuring DR. IMAN HAKIM, Dean of the U of A, Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health.
All of this comes to you from a secret Oregon Duck fan. The good news is that it only counts as one loss!
Remember the old saying if you are given lemons, make lemonade? After listening to Dr. Hakim last week that seems like very good advise! I just got her recipe for the medicinal lemonade and will get this posted in next week’s bulletin. Will be stopping at the store on my way home to pick up a supply of lemons.
2 weeks to go to the car show. Time for a second wind so we can finish strong. Lets all make that extra effort to sell our remaining tickets or help out at one of the events in the next 2 weeks where we will be selling tickets. The Classics Car Show is our signature event and creates more awareness for our club than anything else. We want to make certain we put our best foot forward and show why service oriented community leaders should join our esteemed group!
This week’s program has a little mystery around it. We are going to hear about some of Tucson’s past, both the bad and the good as seen by our presenter, Tom Zoellner. Tom has written a book on the subject and says not all of it is the “Chamber of Commerce’s version”. Should be interesting…..
Don’t forget about our program on Tucson’s economic future on 10/31. Registration will be open to the public on 10/1 so remember to register yourself and your guests soon so you won’t be left without a seat.
Tucson Rotary Club’s RYE student Eric Peng arrived from Taiwan on September 12. He arrived pretty tired from a long journey but is excited about being in Tucson and the US and meeting all of his new friends in school and in Tucson Rotary. Eric is enrolled in Canyon del Oro High School and will be a freshman/sophomore. Eric likes basketball and most sports. His mother is a Rotarian and is a past President of her club in Taiwan. Eric is currently hosted by DAVE and Susan GALLAHER. We are looking for more host families for Eric’s year. For more information, call DAVE GALLAHER at 907-4983.
Our Sept 19th meeting was called to order right on time by PRES JIM as time was of a premium. JACK PARRIS provided a wonderful invocation discussing the past and present and making us all think about what it is to live a meaningful Rotarian life. JOHN LEWIS lead us in the pledge, and after providing us a somewhat brief history of the song origins, "God Bless America" acapella style. A moment of silence was held for two of our members JOAN MCNAMARA and Carolyn Schultz. Ladies you will be missed! We had a slew of visiting folks today and it was great to see a packed room. Our birthday members were STACIA DECKER, BOB ERNSTEIN and TED KIRACOFE. We awarded Teddy, Kharmyn, JOHN, Jim, Gene, PAULINE, David, Christopher, MARK, and BOB with Paul Harris honors. New members PETER AKMAJIAN and BILL MOORE received their packets. We look forward to hearing about you in more than the WONG allotted “2 seconds”. Car tickets are moving along thanks BOB SHAFF for keeping us updated. Sell at an event! It’s easy just ask JO. Also, thanks to RICK ROSE for his work on the videos supporting the car show. Finally we heard from Sandra Kenny on social media. Fascinating topic and facts. Are you going to participate or not? That is the question. Have a great week and “Get Social”.
Dr. Iman Hakim is the Dean of the University of Arizona Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health. She is the Mel and Enid Zuckerman Endowed Chair in Public Health and the founding director of the Global Health Institute at the College of Public Health.
She is internationally known for her translational research and work on the role of bioactive food compounds such as green tea and limonene in modulation of oxidative damage and prevention of chronic diseases such as cancer and cardiovascular diseases. Her research focuses on health promotion, dietary interventions, and the role of gene-environment and gene-nutrition interactions in chronic disease prevention.
She has been the Principal Investigator of several large-scale, behavior change interventions and clinical trials focused on nutrition and cancer prevention, tea consumption and coronary heart disease, chemoprevention of lung carcinogenesis using green tea; dietary interventions to study the effects of tea consumption on smoking-related oxidative stress and role of citrus-cancer association in Mediterranean diet.
Dr. Hakim received the “Best Oral Presentation Award” at the Polyphenols 2012 Conference in Paris last June for her research on tea and cancer prevention. She has been appointed by the Governor to the Arizona Biomedical Research Commission for a 3 year-term and she has been selected to join a panel of international health experts as a member of the Healthy Roads International Advisory Committee.
Dr. Hakim earned her medical degree (1978) from Cairo University in Egypt where she completed her Pediatric residency (1982). She received her PhD in 1988 from Egypt and her MPH in 1994 from the University of Arizona. Her current other academic appointments at the University of Arizona include the Arizona Cancer Center, the Sarver Heart Center, the College of Medicine and the Department of Nutritional Sciences.
Dr Iman Hakim - Dean U of A, Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health
If you are like me, you either have not ever attended a District Conference or you may have only been to one. I am guilty of this and I have been a member for 22 years and may have attended only two during my membership. It is the truth. While our Club has had a pretty weak attendance at the District Conference for many years, I can tell you that I was very impressed with last year’s conference and highly recommend you try to attend one function. Last year was the first District Conference I had attended in recent memory and the Friday night hospitality was a blast and the content of the conference was excellent. One thing I relearned was there is a great core of dedicated Rotarians in our District that go all out to have fun and provide relevant information about what is going on within our District and Rotary International. Bob Ernstein and Virginia Lovitt of our Club did a great job last year organizing the Conference as we were the Host Club for the Conference. This year, the Marana Club is the Host Club.
This year’s Friday night hospitality event will be loads of fun. DG Randy Brooks and his band will be providing live western music and there will be numerous hospitality booths with great food and beverage. The theme is kind of a Rotary tail gate party. It really is a fun evening with the opportunity to meet many Rotarians from around our District and get a chance to meet them in a relaxing environment. To be honest, many clubs really put on a great showing. It will also be a great opportunity to meet and greet our RYE students (we have two). Dress casual and stop by for a beverage, great food, and live music.
Saturday promises to be an informative day with several incredible speakers. Last year, I was pleasantly surprised with the quality of the speakers. This year the lunch keynote speaker is past Rotary International President Richard King. Richard is one of Rotary International’s most popular speakers and he holds the record of presiding over the fastest growing year in Rotary International membership ever. He also raised the most money ever contributed by Rotarians for the annual fund of the Rotary Foundation. Not a bad track record and someone who is highly sought after as an international speaker.
On Friday for lunch, we will have most incredible presentation from Dr. Dharma Singh Khalsa who is currently the Director of the Alzheimer’s Research and Prevention Foundation here in Tucson. His program is titled, “How to Boost Your Brain Power and Be a Better Rotarian”. He will also be presenting a yoga session on Friday afternoon. I plan on attending that too!
Here is the challenge. Try to attend one function if not all of the functions. I can guarantee you will not be disappointed. If you are like me, you might ask, why didn’t I attend more of these?
Sandra Kenny received her Bachelor of Science Degree in Marketing from DePaul University in Chicago, has a Master's Degree in Management and Marketing from Loyola University in Chicago. She is Vice President of TucsonLikes a division of Madden Media, Tucson, AZ, and has also been affiliated with both Northern Arizona University and Pima Community College as an adjunct professor in the Business, Management and Marketing Departments since 2004. Sandra received an "Outstanding Adjunct Faculty" award in 2005, from Pima Community College for her contributions to Pima's West Campus curriculum.
Social networking is becoming a critical part of the lives of most every consumer. With nearly two-thirds of US Internet users of all ages regularly engaging in social media, it isn't just a fad-it's a revolution. The benefits of getting social are numerous, including improving your search rank so customers find your business first, getting your name out there through extensive brand awareness, and just general engagement with consumers for a fast and friendly customer service medium. The bottom line: It's time to get social!
Sandra started her professional career with the AT&T/NCR Corporation, where she spent 7 years in various assignments. Sandra's last position with the company was as Director of World Wide Strategic Marketing in the Financial Systems Division where she was responsible for advertising and marketing initiatives for 101 countries, after starting with the regional sales organization in Springfield, IL being name "Rookie" Sales Person of the year, in 1986.
Sandra Kenny - TucsonLikes divison of Madden Media
Yep…..that’s the problem TOM STRASBURG and I are having!
I hope you know how important each and every one of you is to the success of our TCCS. This is not the accomplishment of just your Team Leaders or Car Show Chairs. It only gets done if we all work together with each doing their part to make this show a success. At the very least we expect each of you to sell at least the 50 raffle tickets you were issued. Selling at public events alone will not allow us to reach our goal. Whatever amount you have sold so far, we have no way of knowing where we are with ticket sales unless you hand in your money and ticket stubs!
We know you will get the job done, but please don't keep us in suspense. Turn in the stubs and money for tickets you have sold so far to Lisa Moore at our meeting this Wednesday. You will give TOM STRASBURG, BOB SHAFF and me a better night’s sleep! While you are at it, DOT KRETT, JIM MURPHY and KATHY KITAGAWA will sleep better if you sign up as a volunteer to work the weekend of the Car Show! It is easy with Kathy's new and improved sign up system.
Marianne Freitas & Tom Strasburg, Co-Chairs
2012 Tucson Classics Car Show
TONY PENN opened the meeting with an eloquent invocation. ERNIE MINCHELLA led the pledge and song. Buongiorno. GARY GETHMANN accompanied ERNIE on the piano.
CAM MOORE introduced lots of guests today.
Celebrating birthdays were YVONNE ERVIN and DAVE PASHKOW.
MATT BLAIR stood in as Sergeant at Arms today and auctioned off some U of A football tickets.
Announcements included GARY HIRSCH promoting the Club Facebook page. LISA FOGLE encouraged everyone to sign up for Home Hospitality. TOM ANDREWS promoted the upcoming hike and a trip to MIKE ANDERSON’S cabin in October. MATT BLAIR persuaded people to join in the Cantina Cup in San Carlos, Mexico. DOT KRET encouraged us to sign up as a volunteer for the car show.
VICKIE JACOBS introduced our speaker, TOM WARNE, who talked about the Main Gate Square Development and the Marshall Foundation.
Cartridge World is a national corporation with 1,700 outlets. In Tucson, there are 4 outlets. All are owned and operated by Rotarian Chuck Sawyer and his wife and business partner, Kathy. In Tucson, the first Cartridge World was opened in 2004 on Broadway near Swan. Cartridge World sells laser and ink jet printer cartridges. Cartridge World emphasizes reusing and recycyling printer cartridges. By refilling and recycling their printer cartridges, customers can save 25 to 40 dollars per cartridge. And help the environment. Cartridge World is definitely a Green Company. Seventy five percent of used printer cartridges go to a landfill. They can last from four hundred to a thousand years. Each new cartridge made uses a gallon of oil in its production. Recycling printer cartridges emphatically reduces our carbon footprint. Cartridge World also offers printer repair services to individual and business customers.
Chuck and Kathy met at the Thunderbird Graduate School in Phoenix where they both obtained their MBAs. They have three children and have been married twenty eight years. Before locating in Tucson, Chuck and Kathy lived and worked in New York City, Chicago, and Kansas City before moving back to Tucson in 2004. Their oldest daughter, Kristen, was selected to teach in an elite program called Teach for America. Of forty five thousand applicants, less than ten percent were chosen. She is teaching at a inner city school in Phoenix. The goal of Teach for America is to stimulate inner city students' interest in academic pursuits by giving them exposure to top young teachers and scholars. Kristen graduated from the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill, North Carolina with degrees in International Studies, English and History.
Chuck and Cathy's son, Bennett, is a fourth year student at the University of Virginia. He is majoring in Foreign Affairs and Economics. Their youngest daughter, Hannah, is a junior at St. Gregory's Preparatory School. Her academic interests are in science courses and she is a volunteer for the Humane Society. When Chuck is not helping on a Rotary Project, working in his business, or spending time with his family, you can find him hiking with various groups on the trails and mountains of the American West. He will participate in the planned Rotary Club of Tucson Hiking Club Grand Canyon hike with his Rotary friends next spring. Chuck will be the Tucson Classic Car Show Chairman next year and he is already working on plans to make next year's Tucson Classic Car Show a success. With his business success, his low key, non-micro managing style, with an emphasis on team building, we can all look forward to another upbeat and successful Tucson Classic Car Show in 2013.
Our meeting opened up with a great invocation by KEN LIGHT, and then GORDON SHAW lead us in the Pledge to our great country and a glorious rendition of “America the Beautiful” with the outstanding piano accompaniment of GARY GETHMANN.
The salad was a bit disappointing unless you just like lettuce, but the meat, thinking it was chicken, was very tasty with the great sauce on it. The cookies are always grand.
Past President SCOTT VAUGHAN did a wonderful job with the introduction of visitors and guests as always pronouncing the names with crystal clear clarity.
Happy Birthday to ART ALLIS and SID HIRSH, I think he owns a shoe store somewhere in Tucson. Ask him and he will tell you where it is located.
DOT KRET visited us on the BIG SCREEN (Note there are two of them) and rapped her way to our hearts with a lovely verse or two of prose regarding the car show, MIKE ORCUTT, Member Ticket sales gave us a pitch on selling more tickets and the show is only seven weeks away.
Past President JIM RONSTADT introduced Coach Andy Lopez who is a stellar guy who happens to Coach the UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA WILDCATS NATIONAL CHAMPION BASEBALL team. He shared stories and answered a full array of questions regarding his program at the University. What a great program and an honor to have Coach Lopez with us at lunch.
Meeting was adjourned with a short yet simple toast by PRESIDENT JIM and we left on time.
When the Rotary Club of Tucson received its charter on April 1, 1921, the club was part of District 549. Tucson's population was just over 20,000. Our charter number is 856.This District included all of Arizona and some clubs in California. Phoenix was laughingly referred to as "Maricopa Junction" because of its inadequate railroad connections. Tucson had the thriving University of Arizona and was just developing a fledgling copper industry. Rotary was sixteen years old at the time of our club's charter. Early goals of Rotary were attuned to business, lively debates, speakers, and fellowship. Rotarians were supposed to help each other by supporting each other's business endeavours. The second Rotary Club was founded in San Francisco. The emphasis on business support was so pronounced, the secretary of the San Francisco club had a duty to inspect every hat worn at meetings to ensure that they were bought from a local Rotarian who ran a haberdashery.
Soon, the club outgrew Dickerman's Cafe and moved its meeting place to the Santa Rita Hotel and increased luncheon prices from thirty five cents to fifty cents. The fare was the same. Meat, salad, potatoes, coffee, and pie. The vegan and heart healthy styles of eating were unheard of at the time. A feature of the weekly meetings was the table debate. Each table would be assigned a subject for debate and lively discussions usually accompanied the meals. Subjects debated included: Should druggists give kickbacks to doctors?, Should merchants enter into price control agreements with other merchants?, Should merchants give discounts to preferred customers? and Should employers raid their competitor's firms and hire away their employees for higher wages?.
Charter members included Rotarians in the following professions: florist, hay and grain, druggist, mining executive, President of the University of Arizona, banking, wholesale fruits and vegetables, farm machinery, public accounting, women's furnishings, attorney, architect, surgeon, banking, real estate, collection agent, and taxi-cab owner.
The Roaring 20's were a time of economic recovery, financial speculation, and wild parties. Our club members soon evolved into a charitable support organization. By 1928, our club's membership was growing and becoming more affluent and more community and charity oriented. Early projects included a baseball game and field meet which matched our athletes against those of the Kiwanis Club. Four hundred dollars was raised and given to the Boy Scouts' Summer Camp. The club also pledged two hundred dollars per year to the Arizona Children's Home. The significance of the amount is that two hundred dollars was the amount needed to sustain one child for a year. The club also paid for a swimming instructor and free admission for local children to the Elysian Grove swimming pool. Other projects helped finance the first permanent Boy Scout Camp in Arizona. Additionally, three boys who could not afford to attend the camp were sponsored by our club. Tuberculosis was a serious health problem in America at the time and our club paid for a year's care and treatment for one patient each year at the Tucson Tubercular Charity Hospital.
In 1927, ground was broken for the Veteran's Hospital in Tucson . Billed as one of the finest hospitals in America at the end of the decade, the Hospital has expanded its initial role as a care facility for tubercular World War Veterans to a full care facility. Rotarians Andy Martin, Orville McPherson, Charles Solomon, and Dr. Meade Clyne were mainly responsible for the initial vision, land purchase, and behind the scene political maneuvering necessary to locate the facility in Tucson. Now, the facility serves patients from as far away as El Paso and employs many people. Next -HARD TIMES, JESSIE OWENS, POP MCKALE, THE YEAR OF THE SANDWICH, WAR, AND RECOVERY. .
Last week was “The Best One Yet !!” for ticket sales, with 1,616 tickets sold. Our members are coming on strong with event, online, non-profit, and personal sales.
Top teams are:
· Pat Zumbusch – 867 tickets sold
· David Gallaher – 819 tickets sold
· Joe Pennington – 721 tickets sold
· Glenn Ewing – 623 tickets sold
· Arnie Jacobsen – 513 tickets sold
Top Individual Sellers are:
· Jerry Harris - 530
· Bobby Larson – 429
· Joni Condit - 400
· Jim Sumwalt – 380
· Marianne Freitas - 289
News Notes:
· Donation Notes:We are still taking ticket donations for both Davis-Monthan families and Reading Seed Coaches. One of our members changed the donation of tickets from Davis Monthan to Reading Seed, and we now can take donations to both groups. We are hoping to get donations of 500 tickets to DM and 500 tickets to Reading Seed. To date, we have 375 tickets donated to DM, and 300 donated to Reading Seed Coaches. Thank you!!
· Additional tickets are available at every RCOT meeting from Art Allis.
· Turn in your proceeds and stubs to Lisa Moore at every RCOT meeting.
Thanks for all you have done, and all that you will do to make this year’s Tucson Classics Car Show “The Best One Yet”!!
Ticket Sales for the 2012 TCCS Pass the 6,000 Mark!!
In contrast to President JIM LUBINSKI’S golf attire, the meeting room seemed formally adorned and reoriented to the south, signaling a special occasion. And indeed it was. MARCIA KRUMWIEDE read a stirring Rotary poem penned to inspire and welcome our District Governor [……Spreading goodwill with benefit to all, Is always followed as our highest call….] and was most apropos for the unofficial theme of the day: “The Amazing Works of Rotary”. JOHN LEWIS lead the pledge in strong cadence and then broke ranks and energized us with a rousing rock-n-roll video of the Star Spangled Banner. Awesome, Dude! KEN LIGHT introduced our guests and visitors with an aplomb befitting our Club -- much appreciated. SALLY MONTAGNE celebrated her birthday by recounting some of our Club’s outstanding contributions around the world: our Projecto Amanacer (lead by the late great GARDNER PIERCE) as the only large “3H Grant” accomplished by the District, the recent water projects in Niger (lead by Sally and her husband Ernie), and others too many to print here. Our District 5500 Governor Randy Brooks was introduced by our Past President and current Assistant District Governor Dr JON WANG. Randy’s personal accomplishments and passions in Rotary are astonishing. Read his Bio if you missed the meeting. Wow! He congratulated our Club, “the Mother Ship of the District”, on our countless contributions and challenged us to do even more, especially as regards gifts to the RI Annual Programs Fund and to Polio Plus through the El Tour de Tucson campaign.
LINDSAY GANIN is getting married. Congratulations! Her fiancé’s strong work ethic and good spirit shined as he helped us paint the Primavera Men’s Shelter a few months ago, so we know Lindsay made a smart choice…..and obviously he is no dummy either!
Past President and Car Show Co-Chair MARIANNE FREITAS reminded us to get revved up, spread the word, help carry the load, and have fun with the Car Show. To date, the Car Show has generated $350,000 for our key charities! THAT’s momentum worth maintaining.
MARY MARTIN, Programs Committee Chair, asked for members to join her committee or bring her good program ideas, or both.
Sgt KEVIN WONG skillfully squeezed $100 from MIKE ORCUTT for Polio Plus on the basis that, by show of hands, approximately 75% of our members had read the article in the funeral directors’ magazine touting Mike’s new business associate. Rotarians are nothing if not well read.
On a sad note, President Jim announced that Executive Director MARY LAUGHBAUM is leaving us to join the Red Cross. We are broken hearted but we understand that she has a new calling. We wish her the absolute best. Where do I turn in my resignation?
In 11 seasons as the head coach at Arizona, Andy Lopez has reestablished the Wildcats as a national power on the diamond. Since taking over in 2002, Lopez has guided the program to a pair of trips to the College World Series, highlighted by the school’s fourth national championship in 2012.
A three-time national coach of the year, Lopez’s teams have earned postseason berths in eight of the last 10 years, and have won at least 40 games in three of the past six seasons. His 2012 club won a share of the Pac-12 Championship for the first time since 1992, which helped earn the Wildcats a bid to host an NCAA Regional for the first time in 20 seasons as they began their perfect 10-0 run postseason run at home in Tucson en route to the national championship.
Lopez came to the Old Pueblo from the University of Florida, where he spent seven seasons turning the Gators into a top 25 program and a national championship contender. His .636 winning percentage at UF was third-best for any coach in Florida school history that spent five or more seasons in the top spot.
He and his wife, Linda, are the proud parents of two daughters, Kristi and Kerri. They also have two sons, Michael and David, who were both members of the 2012 national championship team. David will again play for the Wildcats in 2013, while Michael has joined the coaching staff as an undergraduate assistant coach.
Prior to statehood, a group of Tucson business leaders met at the Santa Rita Hotel every week for lunch and to hear speakers. University faculty and city and county officials bolstered the group. Many of the early attendees were members of Tucson and Pima County's pioneer families. The group was called The Tucson Luncheon Club. It passed resolutions and discussed civic issues. This group started out as a loosely knit cadre of citizens but by 1921, Jack Lyman, an architect, and Andy Martin, a druggist, were asked to seek out a national organization for the Luncheon Club to affiliate with.
In January of 1921, Lyman and Martin asked Orville McPherson to write letters of inquiry to Rotary and Kiwanis.The letters were written and mailed but no written response was received from either organization. On the morning of February 7, 1921, representatives from both organizations showed up at the Santa Rita Hotel with recruitment on their minds. Les Everts, Rotary District Governor of California, cornered Lyman and established a coalition of young returning World War veterans, who were denied access to the Tucson Luncheon Club, and a few members of the Tucson Luncheon Club. Everts, obviously a problem solver, got everyone together upstairs in a private dining room at the Old Pueblo Club, and sold Rotary to the group. While this luncheon was going on, a similar organizational meeting was going on chaired by the Kiwanis representative downstairs in the Old Pueblo Club.
Twenty five charter members were selected shortly thereafter to start the Rotary Club of Tucson. With several of the returning World War Veterans included within the Charter member group, a strong consensus was built. The first Rotary meeting of our club was held on Monday at noon ,February 14, 1921, at Dickerman's cafe on East Congress Street. Twenty five charter members and twenty five prospective members were present. The average age of the twenty five charter members was 38. The cost of the meal was thirty five cents and the bill of fare was meat, potatoes,salad, pie, and coffee. NEXT- The Early Years.
The Founding of the Rotary Club of Tucson: Intrigue and Foresight.
This past weekend, 10 of our Club Members sold 396 TCCS tickets at 2 Padres games and at Little Anthony’s, taking our total ticket sales past the 5,000 mark, with just over 40 days until the Day of the Show.
We have 2 more Padres games this week (see Jerry Harris), several Car Shows at Little Anthony’s (see David Pashkow), the Greek Festival (September 20-23), Oktoberfest (9/27-30), and the SAHBA Home Show (10/5-7) ahead of us as ticket-selling opportunities.
Now we need a big push from our members in the last 40 days to reach our goals. Talk to your team captain for ideas on ways you can help.
Top teams so far are:
Pat Zumbusch – 669 tickets sold
Joe Pennington – 606 tickets sold
David Gallaher – 562 tickets sold
Top Individual Sellers are:
Jerry Harris - 519
Joni Condit - 400
Jim Sumwalt - 380
News Notes:
Thanks to our members’ generosity, we have donated 525 tickets to DM Families. We are no longer able to use additional donations to DM, and encourage you to donate tickets to Reading Seed staff and coaches.
Additional tickets are available at every RCOT meeting from Art Allis.
Turn in your proceeds and stubs to Lisa Moore at every RCOT meeting
Thanks for all you have done and all you will do to make this year’s Tucson Classics Car Show “The Best One Yet”!!
Ticket Sales for the 2012 TCCS Pass the 5,000 Mark!!
It is my role as well as all district leaders responsibility and desire to be of service to you and your club. The job of the governor is to facilitate you accomplishing your club goals. I promise you to do what I can to make this next year successful for you and your club.
TED KIRACOFE led off our meeting with a short and incisive invocation. PAULINE HECHLER and SONNY SOLOT, accompanied by GARY GETHMANN on the piano, gave a rousing rendition of "My Country Tis of Thee." MARCIA GILL, HUGH THOMPSON, and SUZANNE LAWDER were honored for their birthdays and each responded with inspirational words and large donations. MIKE ORCUTT introduced new member RICK WELCH. BILL HARLOW gave a thorough but short explanation of the proposed new bylaws. A vote was called and the new bylaws were passed by acclimation. At this point JIM LUBINSKI moderated the club Assembly wherein committee chairpersons gave short and informative rundowns of the purpose and direction of their committee. Sergeant at Arms, KEVIN WONG, monitored each presentation and waved a red flag if any one went over the limit. Few did and those who did were right on the line. The assembly moved briskly and when President JIM LUBINSKI gave the closing toast and quoted Albert Einstein, we were still on schedule. And the chicken enchiladas were a pleasant surprise.
Don’t know if you all know how interesting one of our Rowdy Table regulars truly is, so I’m going to share his life’s story with you. Gerry Hallowell was born in Boston, in May of 1939. He attended Milton Academy and Harvard University. After college, he worked for Proctor and Gamble from 1961 – 1968 in the Consumer Products Division followed by a variety of financial firms after that. Gerry then got a Master’s Degree in Mental Health Psychology from Cambridge College in 1992. He worked in this field from 1992 through 2002, after which he retired. It was in 1995 that Gerry and his dear wife, Elinor, moved to Tucson while doing field work for his degree in mental health, stopping short of his final push for a PhD degree in this field. Gerry’s concept in donating money to Rotary has been to provide scholarships to foreign students that will allow them to see our way of life, which he did. He also spent lots of time in the field that involved physical involvement until his health began to change.
Gerry Hallowell has a long history with Rotary as a third generation Rotarian. He first joined the Minneapolis Downtown Rotary Club, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, known as “The Big One” in 1972. The rules for joining Rotary in those days were very strict and one had to be male and principal owner or second in command in order to qualify for membership. Gerry qualified for many reasons, one of them being his ownership of a livestock investment firm. When he disbanded his company, he moved to Connecticut in 1975, and took a hiatus from Rotary. In December of 2000, he joined the Rotary Club of Tucson and the rest is history.
One thing Gerry remembers fondly is the Tuesday night stories in Westwood, Massachusetts, when his father would tell about the Taunton Rotary Club, where Mr. Hallowell was a long time member. The stories were most often uproariously funny and Gerry remembers them fondly. His grandfather was also a long time member of the Taunton Rotary, with lots of good stories he shared with Gerry in his younger years.
Gerry has four children, 8 2-legged grandchildren and one 4-legged granddaughter, his Portuguese Water pup named Sandy. He is happily and luckily married to his wonderful wife, Elinor. For more stories about Gerry’s life you’ll have to ask him. Thank you Gerry for sharing some of it with all of us.
(Marcia and Scott enjoying the Change of Administration Party)
Marcia Krumwiede, an executive with Copper State Communications since 2004, a member of the RCoT since 2005, and a two year RCoT board director is our featured Rotarian. Marcia was asked specifically:
As a professional, what do you bring to the success of Copper State Communications?
I do Corporate Marketing for Copper State Communications. We are a Tucson based and headquartered business telecommunications company with offices in Phoenix and Flagstaff as well. Copper State Communications provides businesses across Arizona a “one stop shop” for all of their Telecommunications and IT requirements. We sell and service systems from Avaya, ShoreTel, Mitel, and Toshiba. Our business partnerships with CenturyLink, TW Telecom, Integra and 60+ additional telecommunications providers allows us to assist in selecting the best, most cost effective services for their phone and internet needs. Our Certified Network Engineers can assist with all of your IT networking requirements and we are part of the ACN (Apple Certified Network). My job includes getting our company name and story out to businesses throughout the state.
As a Rotarian, what has been the most significant "value added" aspect of Rotary?
My grandfather, George Codd, was a long time member of our club and it has been great to meet so many people who knew him and periodically hear new stories about him. That has been really special to me. It has also been great to meet and become friends with so many of the wonderful people in our club. I would also be remiss if I didn’t mention how nice it is to be involved with an organization that does so much needed charitable work that benefits people from our local community to the whole world.
How does your vocation benefit from your rather interesting avocations, i.e. "reading, travel, walking, and yoga"?
I would say my job benefits from my hobbies in the following ways: Reading – helps me stay on top of current events and new things in my field, keeps me motivated, helps me relax. Travel – getting a change of scenery is always a good thing to do whenever possible. It helps me get a new perspective on things and come back to work re-energized. Walking – it’s good exercise and helps reduce stress levels. A healthy person always makes for a better employee. Yoga- it helps me relax and stay more focused
How can you help to make Rotary a really meaningful experience?
Get involved!! Say yes to any opportunities that come your way that you think you would enjoy being involved in. If the committee you are interested in doesn't come to you, track down the Committee Chair and let them know you want to get involved. Club Runner is an excellent resource for that information.
Thank you, Marcia, for making the difference in The Rotary Club of Tucson.
President JIM LUBINSKI welcomed us to the small ballroom at the Doubletree and invited PAULINE HECHLER to the tiny podium for the Invocation. She chose a rather lengthy but apropos cowboy poem in honor of our guest speaker, Scott Baxter. Greeting us in three languages, ERNIE MINCHELLA led us in “My Country 'tis of Thee” in English following the Pledge.
After a lunch of the blackest salmon any of us had ever seen and a Waldorf salad that went untouched by all, Big BOB LOGAN introduced the newest Paul Harris Fellows with CHARLOTTE HARRIS distributing the awards. Two members were giving their children Paul Harris fellowships. For her birthday, PHIL GUTT gave a Paul Harris to his daughter, Victoria “Tori” Gutt, an athlete and a scholar. MARIANNE FREITAS’ children, Michele and Matt received the honor in absentia. While PHIL and MARIANNE received small trinkets from BOB, PAT ZUMBUSCH received the best of BOB’S largesse with a 2001 Final Four basketball signed by Lute Olson, and two 1997 newspapers commemorating the Wildcat’s Final Four win. No doubt PAT will be making a generous donation to the UA College of Science in the near future. All the early August babies must have gone away to cooler climes so we had no birthday celebrants.
Photographer Scott Baxter showed his black & white portraits from his Tucson Museum of Art show “100 Years 100 Ranchers.” His large-format photos varied from intimate portraits to panoramic shots of life on the range. He must have shown about half a hundred pics but it was an interesting glimpse into life of a rancher. We didn’t have time for questions and President JIM let us go right on time.
Good News: Ticket Sales for the 2012 TCCS Pass the 4,000 Mark!!
Bad News: We need to sell 18,500 More!!
Last Friday night, a team of 7 Rotarians (Jerry Harris, Bobby Larson, David Pashkow, Don Rollings, Bruce Tunze, and Mike Orcutt) sold 173 tickets at the Padres game, taking our total ticket sales past the 4,000 mark, with just over 60 days until the Day of the Show.
We have 4 more Padres games (see Jerry Harris), several Car Shows at Little Anthony’s (see David Pashkow), the Greek Festival (September 20-23), Oktoberfest (9/27-30), and the SAHBA Home Show (10/5-7) ahead of us as ticket-selling opportunities.
As good as these Event Sales are, personal sales by Club Members and Online Ticket Sales remain the heart and soul of our ticket sales campaign. Please act on these two requests:
· Ask your friends to buy tickets in your day-to-day interactions, and turn in your proceeds and stubs each week to Lisa Moore or to a Posse member.
· Send an email to your friends, asking them to buy tickets online.
Helpful Hints:
· Additional tickets are available at every RCOT meeting from Art Allis.
· Reach out to former RCOT members, members who are on leave, and to Honorary RCOT members (think Greg Byrne, George Hanson, Pete Hershberger, etc).
· Ask a Non-Profit to help us by selling tickets and earning $2 for each ticket sold. See Bobby Larson for details.
Club Assembly is this week. We will have presentations by all six directors and their committees. Check out the President's Letter for more information.
Scott Baxter has been a professional photographer for more than 25 years. His fine art images have been exhibited in the Phoenix Art Museum, the Tucson Museum of Art, the Desert Caballeros Western Museum, and the Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport Museum. His work is in numerous permanent collections including the Desert Caballeros Western Museum, and the City of Scottsdale Public Art Program.
Most of you have heard how the Car Show was created. President-elect at the time, ARNIE JACOBSEN was given the task by then club President JON WANG to come up with a signature fundraising event to support our commitment to Reading Seed. Arnie headed a search committee of about 25 fellow Rotarians who decided on a car show, after which Arnie began the task of putting together a team to create the event. Arnie was the chair for two years, the first year at the same time he served as your president while working full time running his food services businesses, Arizona Sunland Foods and Lucky Wishbone.
Here we were, a group of business-oriented Rotarians who knew nothing of how to run a Car Show, and many of us didn’t even know the names of the cars, just that they were pretty awesome! That first year, we were blown away by the turnout of over 550 cars and about 20,000 attendees. We netted almost $90,000 that first show, giving $5,000 to St. Gregory College Preparatory School for a scholarship, and the balance to Reading Seed. From there we were off and running!
If he hadn’t already done enough, three years ago Arnie convinced other local Lucky Wishbone owners to join him for a commitment of $15,000 per year to be our show’s first major sponsor. That commitment ends with our 2012 show. His fellow Lucky Wishbone store owners are moving onto other promos, but Arnie has pledged that his business will continue to sponsor our show alone at a lower level. We can’t thank Arnie and the other Lucky Wishbone owners enough for their three years of phenomenal support.
You all should know some of the many talents of Arnie Jacobsen. He grew up in Ogden, Utah where his father was the Chief of Police, and was the youngest in his family with two older sisters. At the age of eight, he founded his first business venture which was selling night crawlers to local fishermen. Later, in his teens, he became Ogden’s first male roller skating car hop for a local drive-in restaurant. He has a Geology degree from Weber State College, a Masters in Urban Economics from Univ. of Utah, a PhD in Industrial Economics from University of Maryland and he worked in Washington, DC for a consulting firm that developed the Base Realignment and Closure Commission (BRAC). BRAC was developed to evaluate military bases, close bases not as “worthwhile” as others, and is the group that decided to keep Davis Monthan AFB open. The next review to close bases is in 2015.
Arnie is married to Tonie. They have three children with numerous grandchildren and their sons Josh and Joel work with Arnie and Tonie in their business. His outstanding organizational skills along with the ability to encourage others to take charge of various leadership areas of the car show set the tone for many years of success. He continues to mentor all of us on the TCCS leadership team, making it fun with his wit and sense of humor!!
KEITH COBB led off with our invocation and as always gave a heartfelt and appropriate one. Then, once DAN GUARE located the American flag, we all said our pledge and sang our song.
MIKE DEVRIES introduced our guests and visitors. A special guest was Miss Arizona, Piper Stoeckel. No wonder all the men sitting at that table had goofy grins on their faces. She was a guest of RON OXMAN and they together serve on the board of the Southern Arizona Children’s Advocacy Center.
Our sole birthday boy, DON SHROPSHIRE, celebrated 45 years in the Club and remarked on all the changes in that time, including so many technological devices on the podium that it’s now hard to see the speaker. DON regretted not getting a phone call from Paul Harris, but maybe he should check his text messages.
STACIA DECKER was introduced as a new member by IRENE DECKER and GARY SCHEER. STACIA is GARY’s daughter and is married to IRENE’s son. Fortunately both GARY and IRENE are married to other people.
The program focused on our Rotary Youth Exchange and became an emotional and compelling way to encourage members to become involved. The Club, in keeping with our enhanced use of technology, ran videos from two former exchange students. It’s too bad these YouTube videos always have the production quality of a hostage video, but they get the point across. They did however lack the impact of the personal delivery of our returning student from Brazil, Leticia Secco.
New President JIM LUBINSKI remarked that he would again likely end early but that he was banking the time for future use. This author believes that Rotary time is a use it or lose it proposition. And if we are ending so early, why do the meetings seem so long?
This is the Final of 4 parts of an article, written by Drew Vactor for eClub One in 2004, about Rotary Fellowships. This installment is about how ISFR.
Rotary provides the opportunity for friendships, enjoyment and service. Rotary Fellowships further these benefits by offering Rotarians an opportunity join with others who have common interests to use their professions and hobbies in a most beneficial manner.
A close up view of the International Skiing Fellowship of Rotarians shows how fellowships work. Known by its members as ISFR, this group meets yearly in North America and bi-annually in Italy (as of 2012, annually in Europe), with special trips to other countries. Members in most cases are skiers or family members of a skier. Recent North American trips have included Whistler, Breckenridge, Heavenly Valley, Jackson Hole, Banff, Sun Valley and Telluride. The 2005 North American trip will be to Fernie, Alberta, Canada. (Since 2005, there were also trips to Aleyska, Steamboat Springs, Whistler/Blackcomb, Crested Butte, Park City, Aspen and Revelstoke - 2013 will be in Telluride) Meanwhile, skiing Rotarians in Madonna di Campiglio, Italy stage a similar event including extensive ski racing activities.
In addition to the fun of skiing together and partying together, ISFR members from around the world also participate in the Davis Boyd Memorial Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the Fellowship. This Foundation provides funds for an adaptive ski program in the community where the annual ski gathering takes place. Adaptive Ski programs provide instructors and equipment for handicapped skiers to enjoy this exciting winter sport. Money comes from silent and live auctions at the gala dinner and from participant fees for races and clinics.
For more information about the International Skiing Fellowship of Rotarians, go to: www.isfrski.org
Watch for our next series from the eClub One archives about Attendance.
Happy Birthday to Members: Mike Anderson, Tom Andrews, Ben Burnside, John Cousins, Dick Dobrin, Chris Edwards, Jennifer Hoffman, Kathy Kitagawa, George Krauja, Ann Lancero, John Lewis, Chris Mooney, Ron Oxman, Jay Parker, Larry Peth, Gib Raymond, Lew Riggs, Gordon Shaw, Lee Shultz, Jake Struble, Jim Sumwalt, and Jay Zucker.
Call or email Arla Stader to schedule the date you would like to celebrate at a Rotary meeting in August. Available Wednesday meetings are August 1, 8, 15, 22 or 29.
This past week your new board met for the first time. It was a great meeting and many new and exciting ideas were discussed. The energy and focus which we present should help make this a great year for our club. We will continue to present some of these ideas and changes over the next several months and welcome your comments and feedback.
This week we will hear from our own Dave Gallaher (your president-elect) and Tom Andrews about Rotary Youth Exchange and Rotary’s new “fifth avenue of service,” New Generations. In order to continue to thrive, Rotary recognizes the importance of getting the younger generation involved. Dave and Tom will speak about their experiences with the various youth programs and how they have positively impacted their lives. It should be a great program.
On August 15th, our meeting will be a club assembly. We have a number of club business issues to transact that day including a vote on proposed changes to our bylaws. But the main focus of the meeting will be short presentations by many of our committee chairs on what their committees are up to and where they could use help. I highly encourage you to plan to be at this important meeting to learn more about all of the good things being done by our club via our committees and projects. You may discover a new area in which you would like to serve.
I look forward to seeing you on Wednesday and have a great week!
This is the third of four parts of an article, written by Drew Vactor for eClub One in 2004, about Rotary Fellowships. This installment is about how Rotary Fellowships are formed.
For a Rotary Fellowship to receive official recognition, an extensive application must be submitted to Rotary International. Here are some of the criteria that are common to approved Rotary Fellowships:
Members are from at least 3 countries
District Governors in at least 3 districts in 3 countries must approve
Must have a President and Officers
It must be financially self sustaining
Objective must be furtherance of acquaintance and fellowship among Rotarians
Must publish its roster and share it with the RI Secretariat
There must be an annual “forum” in person or in writing
Must be unique in its recreational or vocational focus and activities
RI helps promote fellowships, including a quarterly article in The Rotarian. There are also booths for fellowships at the International Convention. Rotary Districts have RRVF Chairs who coordinate between Fellowship members and individual clubs. The President of an RRVF is also a member of the RI RRVF committee.
Fellowship members also find wonderful opportunities to serve in their areas of interest. For instance, Yachting Fellowship members treat disabled children to cruises, Flying Rotarians ferry patients to hospitals and transport supplies to disaster areas and Skiing Rotarians fund opportunities for disabled skiing enthusiasts to get expensive specialized skiing equipment. A fellowship of Peace Officers helps develop parks and gardens as havens of peace while Environmental Fellows work to preserve our planet. Musical fellows provide musical leadership and entertainment at Rotary meetings on all levels and the missions of various Medical Fellowships are often apparent from the groups’ names.
The Final Installment will be about a Fellowship that many of our members of the Rotary Club of Tucson participate in, the International Skiing Fellowship of Rotarians.
Havasupai Canyon is a legendary spot in northern Arizona (part of the Grand Canyon) and should be on everyone’s bucket list to see the tallest waterfalls in Arizona and visit the Havasupai Indian reservation. The hike is 11 miles to the campground and takes about four hours. The trip out takes about 5-6 hours depending on how quick you make it up the last switchbacks. The trip here is nothing short of spectacular. It is the perfect tune-up for making the Grand Canyon hike next Spring.
This trip has been part of Districts 5490 and 5510’s (think all of Arizona) Rotary Youth Exchange hike for over 15 years. I first did this trip with my wife and kids back in 2008 and have done it every year since except for the year of the big flood when the trip was cancelled due to damage to the campground. We did this hike last year and the canyon is back on the mend and the falls have not changed at all except for the lower falls of Navajo Falls. Anyone in reasonable condition can easily make this hike. IF you take your own transportation, you can even ride a mule or take the helicopter at extra cost.
It has been a fun international experience visiting with all or most of the RYE students from around the world. Typically, we have 20-25 students and this is usually their first and maybe only time to meet their counterparts statewide. This trip is extremely well organized by a group of very dedicated RYE program Rotarians from District 5490 and 5510. The scenery is great. The food is great. The experience is something to remember and the kids are loads of fun. Mid to late October is prime time for experiencing this magical place. Anybody can go including non-Rotarians. Rich Flynn from our Club went with me last year and raves about the experience. The trip is $300 pp and includes an overnight in beautiful Seligman. The cost also includes meals in the canyon and your permits and fees for the Tribe. If you have any questions, call Dave Gallaher at 907-4983.
It was a jovial crowd thronging into the meeting room to get out of the heat and humidity outside. The membership was introduced to a new meal menu for the first time in a long time. It looked like everyone enjoyed the meal. Not too many plates had leftovers on them.
PRESIDENT LUBINSKI started the meeting at high noon and joining him on the podium at his right were the birthday folks, BRUCE JACOBS, MARY MARTIN and KATIE DUSENBERRY, sitting at a table below the podium. Welcome back Katie! It’s nice to see you again. On Jim’s left sat the speaker, Bryan Martyn and JIM RONSTADT, who would introduce Bryan as the Executive Director for the Arizona State Parks.
The invocation was given by Jim Ronstadt, followed by SONNY SOLOT giving his usual rousing rendition of “My Country tis of Thee.” Accompanying him on the piano was ELLEN WHEELER. Sonny and Ellen should compete on the America’s Got Talent show! YVONNE IRVIN, introduced our visiting Rotarians and guests followed by the birthday kids each getting a minute or two to extol their sponsors and mentors, not to mention gifting their favorite organizations. After lunch, MARIANNE FREITAS, presented checks of $12,500.00 to each of two selected community groups: Pima Council on Aging, and the YWCA. Sandy Goodsite is making calendars and donating portions of the sales to the Annual Car Show, and speaking of the Car Show, BOB SHAFF, gave the audience a great update on where the club is on ticket sales. 2,000 tickets have been sold so far, 9% of the target!
Our speaker Bryan Martyn, Executive Director of the Arizona State Parks, kept the audience’s attention with a professional presentation on the state of his budget, future plans for the parks, as well as informing the audience where the 29 parks can be found. All in all, a great presentation. President Lubinski closed with some thoughtful remarks followed by a toast and adjournment at 1:20pm.
2012 TCCS tickets sales through Wednesday, July 25th total 2,669…over 11% of our goal of selling 22,500 tickets prior to the day of the show.
Joe Pennington’s team has sold 514 tickets, primarily from great participation in “event selling”. Joe’s team is led by ticket-seller supreme, Jerry Harris, who has sold 447 at the events our Club has attended.
Online Sales, the easiest way to sell tickets, are lagging, with only 148 sold online so far. Our “Mail Me My Tickets” option is a very popular way to get the tickets to purchasers, and our online ticket system is working flawlessly.
“Event Selling” at the SAHBA Home Show and the Padres Games has produced over 2,000 of our ticket sales. We have many more events scheduled during August and September…so sign up and show up for a few hours of fellowship, and help us make the 2012 TCCS “The Best One Yet !!”
Dave Gallaher has been a member of the Youth Exchange committee for several years and has hosted three RYE students. Dave, member Tom Andrews (District 5500 Outbound RYE Chair) and Leticia Secco (RYE student District 4430 Sao Paulo Brazil) will share their experiences with the Youth Exchange program that is a life changing event for all involved.
Committee Chair Sonny Solot is looking for a few good Rotarians to join the Pledge and Song Committee. Five minutes of your time every few weeks ... what other committee can offer such a finite volunteer timeline? Don't miss this rewarding opportunity to lead your fellow Rotarians in a patriotic moment of unity! Email Sonny to sign up today or call him at 520.322.7710.
Fellow Rotary Leaders,
July 2012, the first month of our new "Rotary Year" is now over half gone and our first Rotary Leadership Institute (RLI) Training
of the new Rotary year is really drawing close.
The Rotary Leadership Institute (RLI) is a training program established to improve the
Rotary knowledge and leadership skills of the future leaders of Rotary Clubs. RLI is a
great place to start for a new Rotarian looking to find their niche in the world of Rotary.
The exchange of ideas with other experienced Rotarians alone makes the courses
worthwhile.
The Rotary Leadership Institute training program consists of three full-day sessions,
followed by graduate seminars. Our next District 5500 program will be Saturday August
25, 2012 at the Viscount Suite Hotel, 4855 East Broadway Boulevard, Tucson, AZ
85711. Future sessions will be offered in Casa Grande on January 26, 2013 and back at
the Viscount next April 27th. Mark your calendar now!
Because Rotary Club leadership changes on a yearly basis there is a constant need for
new leaders who are knowledgeable about the world of Rotary International. It is difficult
at the Club level to learn enough about the exciting world of Rotary. Furthermore,
leadership skills in a voluntary organization are quite different from business or military
leadership skills.
Cost is $60.00 and includes breakfast and lunch. The District offers one RLI Scholarship
per club per year. Many clubs also budget RLI costs to cover members attending. Full
registration information is available on the District 5500 website at: http://www.rotaryd5500.org
We are also offering a Graduate Level Course from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. on the new Ignite
Membership Program and it's Premier Club Designation for Clubs in the District. We are
offering this course to all Rotarians, not just RLI Graduates, because we are sure that
some of you may not be able to attend the District Membership Assembly on August 11.
Information on this course will also be on the District Website.
Thanks for your time and consideration of this worthwhile Rotary activity. Please help us
fill the classes this year.
Yours In Rotary,
Blaine E. Moyer - John E. Gruenemeier
Posted by Phillip G.(Jerry) Harris on Jul 22, 2012
It should come as no surprise to know that when I visited DK Advocates, 1502 E. Broadway, the mood in the workplace was upbeat, the pace intense, and the style up close and personal.
The aim of DKA is to train Armed Forces Veterans and people with disabilities for the workplace. Attention is given to application preparation, basic computer skills, workplace rules for interpersonal interaction, interview skills, teamwork skills, and personal grooming. Qualified counselors work in small and relaxed classes to encourage and teach. When clients of DKA are placed in the workplace, they are not left adrift. There are follow-up interviews and counseling sessions to be sure the clients are acclimating to the work place. Once placed in a work environment, additional retraining is given on an as-needed basis.
Dot Kret, the founder and owner of DKA, is constantly seeking the help of the leaders in the Tucson and Pima County business community in placing her clients in jobs that fit their skills. Some employers have reservations about hiring Veterans or people with disabilities. Dot enthusiastically tries to dispel all negative preconceptions and the reception within the community has been positive.
An example of employer cooperation is David Lovett, who has hired DKA trained workers for document imaging and data entry. And Arnie Jacobsen, who has given access to DKA staff and clients to tour Sunland Foods to see up close the food preparation process.
Some workers are able to work from Dot's office doing data transformation services, converting paper files to digital images, archiving and data entry work. They scan photos, slides and negatives and will soon be able to convert VCR and Beta film to digital as well as old 45s, 33s and 78rpm recordings, too.
Dot is called upon on a regular basis by defense lawyers and plaintiff attorneys to testify as an expert witness in State and Federal Court in the field of employee rehabilitation, wage loss and disability issues.
She graduated from the University of Arizona in 1981and earned her Master’s Degree from the University of San Francisco. Dot was the Tucson Chamber of Commerce Woman of the Year in 2004 and has been a member of the Rotary Club of Tucson since 2003. She is married to Michael Lex, City Court Magistrate, and they have two children.
Dot is an excellent photographer. Her photos in her office depict Southern Arizona plants and buildings. Her photos show a unique ability to capture beauty in unexpected places. Her oldest son, David, won the 2009 national Photography Championship while a Senior at Tucson High School. He is currently a student at the University of Arizona. Her youngest son, Nathan, is a senior at Tucson High and plans to attend college and study Mathematics.
Dot Kret is an active Rotarian, a highly successful business person, and best of all, perhaps, fun to be around. Want to brighten up your day? Sit by Dot at Rotary. Her enthusiasm for life, Rotary, and people is infectious.
Arizona has a vast storehouse of natural resources and the perfect climate to attract visitors to Arizona. The Arizona State Legislature recognized this opportunity in 1957 and they created this impressive State Parks system to attract visitors from around the world. State Parks now host more than 2.2 million visitors annually who spend $266 million in Arizona.
This week is the official kick-off for car show ticket sales. Bob Shaff and his team have a great presentation planned for us so be ready to be motivated to sell, sell, sell! I encourage you to get an early start and don’t be satisfied selling only your initial allotment. We have plenty more! Remember, each member is responsible for the tickets given to them. You must either sell them and turn in the proceeds or return any unsold at the end of the selling period. There will be many opportunities to participate in group sales at special events held around town between now and October. If you are uncomfortable asking others to buy your tickets, these events will give you a great way to help out. Personally, I do not have a problem asking friends and family when I believe in the cause.
Our program this week will be presented by Greg Foster from FC Tucson on the future of professional soccer in Tucson. As we all know our city has not made keeping professional sports a focus and consequently we have lost spring training for major league baseball and have struggled to keep a minor league presence. Professional sports future in Tucson is at risk. The lost revenue from sports related tourism is just one of the many unfortunate consequences. Let’s listen to Greg and see if he thinks soccer can be the solution.
Greg Foster is a Managing Partner of FC Tucson and heads up FC Tucson's civic and media relationships. Greg is also on the Board for the Ft. Lowell Soccer Shootout. His vision, as well as the mission of FC Tucson, is to expand, enhance and market the benefits soccer will provide to the Tucson community in terms of community recognition, sports (spring training and eventually professional soccer) opportunities, as well as increased tourism and business revenues.
FC Tucson Events, LLC (FC Tucson) operates a men's soccer team
JUNE 27, 2012 Meeting Is the year over already? President JONI CONDIT called the meeting to order and received a round of applause for her last meeting. KEN LIGHT gave the invocation and DAN GUARE, prior to leading the pledge and song, as well as cheers for the championship UA baseball team, reminded JONI that this is only her last meeting as president. CHRIS EDWARDS made our guests feel welcome, despite tripping over a few name pronunciations, and birthday greetings were extended to ERNIE MINCHELLA, MONTE CLAUSEN and MATT BLAIR. Sergeant-at-Arms MATT presented President JONI with flowers on behalf of the club. Past President BILL HARLOW introduced our newest member, his son JOHN HARLOW, who comes from a long line of Rotarians, many named JOHN. RICHARD WHITE presented the Four-Way Test Award to long-time Red Cross and Miracle Square volunteer Lynn Sagara, wife of MIKE SAGARA. Sergeant-at-Arms-Elect KEVIN WONG got a jump on the new year by introducing announcers TOM ANDREWS, who promoted the March 2013 Grand Canyon hike and topside activities, and President-Elect JIM LUBINSKI, who gently broke the news that dues will increase slightly next year. President JONI gave heartfelt and emotional thanks to her mentors, board and fellow club members before introducing District Governor Michael Drake, who bestowed special recognition on members BOB ERNSTEIN for chairing the District 5500 Conference in 2011, SALLY MONTAGNE for heading up District 5500’s grants committee, GARY HIRSCH for leading a successful Rotary cycling team that raised $100,000 in El Tour de Tucson, Assistant District Governor CHARLOTTE HARRIS, and President JONI. SUSAN MOORE VAULT introduced speaker Robert Hirsh, retired Pima County Public Defender and SID HIRSH’S brother, who shared stories and thoughts on the criminal justice system.
JULY 11, 2012 Meeting New Pres. JIM LUBINSKI opened the meeting by asking SUZANNE LAWDER to give the invocation which included inspirational words from Daniel Webster. Suzanne was followed by ERNIE MINCHELLA who led the pledge & song accompanied by GARY GETHMANN’S talents on the piano. ERNIE also included a special greeting to the club, in honor of Pres. LUBINSKI, not in his usual Italian but in Polish – “Dzień Dobry” meaning “Good Day.” BRUCE TUNZE did the introduction of guests and visitors. The birthday club included GEORGE DARLING who gave us an education of what took place in his birth year, 1962. Followed by CINDY GODWIN, who said she was a “young woman” when she joined the club and KEVIN WONG expressed his appreciation of the entire member’s support. KEVIN recognized JIM as a member of the birthday club however he deferred his two minutes for later in the meeting. MIKE ORCUTT introduced new member MARIAN ABRAMS, a graduate of Case Western University. MARIAN is a practicing Attorney who specializes in business law. Sergeant of Arms KEVIN WONG had a two page article featuring member SID HIRSH selling a pair of shoes to his brother. SID was a good sport and gave the club a four digit check for his fine. Pres. JIM began his remarks with a Thai greeting of respect to the club. He provided a PowerPoint which featured his experience at the Rotary International Conference in Bangkok Thailand. Pres. JIM would like the theme of the upcoming year to be Peace through Service. He presented his goals for the year: 100% club participation in the car show, emphasis on an International project, encourage Rotarians to consider designating their birthday donations and fines to the Rotary Annual Fund, continued support of the Polio Plus program by supporting the riders that ride for Polio Plus, celebrating our successes with a special recognition of JOHN MCCALEB for donating the time of his band. He asks the club to keep an open mind to change as he strives to make improvements in the meeting experience, and last but not least he encourages members to move around at the meetings and get to know all the members. He concluded with a fitting toast “The human mind is like a parachute, it works best when it is open.”
Mystery Editor, Double Feature June 27 and July 11
This is the first of a four article series, originally written by Drew Vactor for eClub One in 2004, about Rotary Fellowships. This installment is about the history leading up to Rotary Fellowships.
When Paul Harris founded Rotary in 1905, he conceived of community leaders with different and varied responsibilities coming together frequently to share their views. By gathering those of different professions, the individuals, their businesses and the community benefited from the balanced discussions that took place. His stated concept was to create an intimate professional organization in which professionals could share "mutual cooperation and informal friendship such as all had once known in our villages." From that humble beginning, Rotary has grown to not only help us become more aware of our community, but of our nation and of the world. We have also become participants in the process by proclaiming the motto “Service Above Self” and learning to serve the world we used to just observe.
A key component was the fact that each member of Paul Harris’ original group was from a different business, providing well rounded input. As the group grew, the members learned it was important to also include educators, key members of the government, both political and professional, clergy and those professionally involved in community service. By doing so, the organization, or club, met the original test of bringing in those who saw the community from a different viewpoint to provide excellent interaction and balanced discussion.
As Rotary continued to grow to over a million members many members began to realize that they shared more than they thought despite their different backgrounds and different approaches. Although they operated very different businesses Rotarians shared a common believe in the inherent good of their fellow men and women and ran their enterprises in an ethical fashion. Past Rotary International President (and past club president and PDG) Herbert Taylor realized this commonality of business ethics and in 1932 created the “4 Way Test of the Things We Think, Say and Do”, expressing how the lives of so many in our communities are intertwined as they try to do things well for the betterment of all. It has, for many, become a concise guide to ethical behavior.
The next installment will be about how Rotary Fellowships began.
So how strict is Rotary International on attendance? They require all active members to attend at least 50% of their Club’s meetings. Most of our members are way above that. Many even have 100%, and for good reasons. First, you’re paying for the meals whether you eat them or not, secondly, the fellowship alone is worth coming for, and, thirdly, our programs are first rate. If you have to miss a meeting, you can still keep your attendance percentage high by doing a make up online, at a Club committee, or at another Club. In the Tucson area, there are a dozen clubs from Marana to Green Valley.
Our Rotary District 5500 Group Study Exchange committee is seeking applications from Rotarians to lead this year’s GSE team on a 30-day visit to District 4540 in Brazil April 28 to May 28, 2013. Applications are also available for young professionals between ages 25 and 40 who would like to participate as a Group Study Exchange team member. The application forms and additional information can be found at: Rotary International's or District 5500's website and are due to GSE Chair Meg Weesner by August 8 and August 29 for GSE Team Leader and Team Members respectively.
You could feel the competitive spirit in the air when Car Show Ticket Team Captains chose their teams in a sports-styled “draft” held at Skyline Country Club on June 28th. Refreshments were abundant and Bob Shaff shared information to equip our captains with everything they need to lead our members to a new record of ticket sales.
At our July 18th Rotary meeting we will kick off membership ticket sales for the 2012 Car Show. By then you should have been contacted by your Team Captain and received your initial supply of tickets. If you have not been contacted by July 18th, please contact Mike Orcutt who is in charge of Membership Ticket Sales
Club members do not have a ticket sales quota. We ask EVERY member to sell as many tickets as he/she can, whether that is 10 tickets or 500 tickets.
The 4 best ways to sell tickets are these:
Sell to your friends, family, and business associates.
Forward the Club-supplied email to everyone on your email system, asking them to buy tickets online. You and your team will get ticket selling credit for all online purchases if they put your name in the “referred by” box on the order form.
Participate in the many local events at which our Club will be selling tickets. You and your team will get ticket selling credit for a pro-rata share of tickets sold at the event. We have already sold 1,943 tickets (8% of our goal) at several events over the past two months, including 256 tickets at the July 3rd Tucson Padres game.
Ask local non-profits to sell tickets for us. They buy the tickets for $3, sell them for $5, and keep the proceeds.
Please treat these tickets like “cash”. Each member must sell, buy, or return all tickets issued to him/her. Lost or unreturned tickets will be billed to the member if not accounted for by October 10, 2012. Turn in your cash/checks to Lisa Moore each week. Additional tickets are available each week from Art Allis.
The success of our Car Show depends upon every member selling Car Show tickets. Let’s make the 2012 Tucson Classics Car Show “The Best One Yet !!”.
On July 1st Jim Lubinski became the 92nd President of the Rotary Club of Tucson and was enthusiastically cheered by 160 people at our June 30 Change of Leadership party held at Skyline Country Club. He joined our club on December 3, 2003 sponsored by Ron Oxman. Jim is the CFO for Intergalactic Inc. known to all of us as “Bookmans.”
Jim attended the University of Illinois in Champaign, graduating with a B.S. in Accounting. He worked for major firms as a public accountant and then gained retailing experience working at the then largest shoe retail store in the world, Chernin’s, in Chicago. In between accounting and finance jobs, he dabbled in the real estate market while looking for the perfect job, until his wife finally said that it was time to make a decision on real estate or accounting!
So, he applied for a job online at Bookmans and then quickly decided to take his resume off the internet. But within ten minutes of submitting his resume, Bookmans' owner, Bob Oldfather called and quickly convinced Jim to fly to Tucson for an interview. Jim flew out, was offered the job, and proceeded to purchase a home for his wife and children with Karen having never seen the house! Jim is not your typical CFO, and he is a major source of the creativity and constantly evolving vision of Bookmans.
After moving to Tucson, Jim quickly integrated into our community and Rotary. His heart and soul are in the Tucson Classics Car Show as he has always had an interest in old cars. Jim has served on a number of RCoT committees and this year, even as President-Elect, co-led the Program Committee with Ken Light. He served as the International Chair during his two year term on our Board of Directors during years 2008-2010. Notably, Jim worked with Duke Burris, MD to help to bring the Nogales Wheelchair project to fruition. The project was finally completed in June of this year, resulting in more than 140 individuals getting new rough rider wheelchairs.
Jim is married to the lovely and smart Karen Lubinski who has been a freelance creative director for the same Chicago ad agency for twenty-one years, telecommuting since moving to Tucson. They met at a health club and their first date was a tennis game during which Jim told her “Gee, I’m tired.” She said that they ended up talking all night and she knew then that they would be married. You probably could tell that they've taken private dance lessons as they danced beautifully at the COL party!
Karen and Jim have two children, son, Jeffrey James (they call him “JJ”), and daughter, Nicole. Jim and Karen returned from their recent Rotary International meeting in Thailand to attend JJ’s graduation from Trinity University in San Antonio, Texas. Karen says that Jim was so excited to finally get to see the Alamo! JJ recently started his career at the Spectrum Group in Irvine, California. Nicole is attending college at the University of Colorado in Boulder so Jim and Karen are now empty nesters living in a large five-bedroom home! Karen jokingly says that she gave Jim the “worst birthday present” ever, an English setter puppy named "Tango" who regularly chews on Jim’s arms!
Jim has always been a jock, playing football in high school, and league softball and football in college. He cycles regularly as a member of Bookmans' “Re”-cycling team, often riding 30-70 miles in a day. He is planning to ride in this year’s El Tour with one of the Rotary riding groups. Jim has seemly tireless energy and is efficient, effective, and always forward-thinking. He polled our club members this past year to find out what they liked and disliked about our meetings and organized our new board to be ready to make some positive changes to enhance our meetings this year. One of his goals is to make the club more attractive to younger members while still appealing and fun for long term members. We are all looking forward to Jim’s leadership this year and wish him all the best!
Posted by Phillip G.(Jerry) Harris on Jul 08, 2012
When I first started in Rotary, a Red Badge guy, one of the things I looked forward to was coming to the meetings and waiting for the weekly eruption from the northwest table. The Rowdy Table. While I certainly have never been considered shy, I never have mustered the courage to ask if I could sit there. My curiosity got the best of me recently and I am still puzzling over the resulting experience. I asked to meet with three members of the Rowdy Club. Maggie Kosinski, Dan Guare, and Charlie Meaker.
The purpose of the meeting was to write a feature article on the Rowdy Club. I knew its members included a prominent dentist, a financial manager, a wine aficionado and several other distinguished Rotarians. We sat at a table at the back of the west banquet room after a meeting. Maggie was serene, as usual. Dan was animated and helpful, and Charlie was quiet and gave me a tough stare. I asked if there was a purpose to the Rowdy Club. A goal or focus.
Maggie said camaraderie was the primary driving force behind the Club. Dan stood up , laughed, and said, "Yeah, that's right, Maggie. Fun and Camaraderie." He then pounded the table. Charlie did not relax his stare. He looked at the three of us and said, emphatically, "We have no purpose." Maggie and Dan looked sheepish and were quiet. I then asked if there were any rules. Maggie and Dan said nothing but looked to Charlie. After an awkward silence, he said,with a gentle snarl, "We got no rules. No rules." I asked if there were any officers or if some one was in charge of orchestrating the weekly eruptions. Once again, silence from Maggie and Dan. From Charlie, furrowed eyebrows and a classic Bill Bellichek stare. "We got no officers. " I then began to see the obvious. Charlie is the leader. Perhaps without an official title. But still the leader of this fluid and often volatile group. Charlie told me he did not know when the Rowdy Club and the Rowdy Table came into existence. Charlie joined the Rotary Club of Tucson in 1982 and he thinks the Rowdy Table was going strong then. Before joining our club in 1982, Charlie was a member of the Nogales, Arizona Rotary Club. He and his wife have lived in Tubac since 1976. He was in Equipment Leasing until his first retirement and now he sells real estate because he thinks it is fun. Charlie was born in Auburn, New York. He has a daughter and two grandchildren. I tried to get Charlie to tell me more about himself and he gave me the Bellichek stare again and left the building.
I later interviewed Ginger Leavitt and she promptly ratted Charlie out. She said Charlie bought the kazoos you hear when there is an eruption or musical presentation from the Rowdy Table. Ginger is in charge of the Blood Drive. She says Charlie is her go to guy. The person who gets things done, refuses any credit for his work, and is very professional in his efforts to support the Blood Drive. Ginger calls Charlie the unofficial Mayor of the Rowdy Club. She says over the years Charlie has been the guiding force behind most of the pranks such as the recent 'Paul Harris" call to President Joni Condit a few weeks ago. Ginger also said that Charlie won the Red Rose award from the Rotary Club of Tucson a few years ago in recognition of his many successful volunteer efforts.
Past President Joni Condit is a fan of the Rowdy Table and of Charlie. She said her favorite two memories of the Rowdy Table were the Paul Harris call and the playing of "Happy Birthday" on several occasions on the kazoos and other noise makers. Joni and Ginger both say Charlie was the force behind the Paul Harris call. A trick he learned from Roger Harwell. Joni says the Rowdy Table adds notes of humor and camaraderie to the meetings and she considers their contributions a key to the success and tradition of our meetings and our club. Joni also agrees that Charlie is the unofficial leader of the Rowdy Club. No rules, No officers, No purpose? How about at least a thirty year tradition of bringing humor and camaraderie to our meetings? Thank you, Charlie, for your stellar efforts in sustaining this unique and vital tradition of the Rotary Club of Tucson.
Welcome to our Rotary year 2012-2013 themed by International President Sakuji Tanaka as “Peace Through Service.” Your Board of Directors, office staff and I look forward to a great year ahead and are honored to serve as your club’s leadership team for the coming year. Know that we all take our roles seriously and will do our best to ensure proper stewardship of the club. You should know that the entire team will not act simply as place holders of the offices and positions we hold, but rather as agents for constant improvement.
At the first meeting you will hear about some of our plans for the year ahead. One of our main objectives is to improve your meeting experience and make certain our meetings are relevant, productive and interesting. We will be introducing a number of changes throughout the year and ask for everyone to be patient and open minded. Most of the changes we will try are coming as a result of the membership survey we conducted earlier this year. Some may work, some may not, but as Benjamin Franklin once said, “When you are finished changing, you are finished.” I encourage you to offer your comments and constructive criticism to me or anyone on the leadership team.
Rotary International is the world’s largest volunteer service organization. Within our club you have over 50 committees, multiple service projects including some that are international in scope and one of the best and most fun fundraisers, “The Tucson Classics Car Show.” As with any organization, the more you are involved, the more you get out of it. I encourage all of you to get involved and do not be afraid to say yes when asked to serve. Working together we can truly change our community and the world.
Membership is the lifeblood of our club. Please spread the good word about our club and bring prospective members as guests to our meetings and service projects. You are the best ambassadors for Rotary and The Rotary Club of Tucson, truly the finest Rotary Club on the planet!
Two weeks ago, your very active and engaged Community Charity Grants Committee, co-chaired by Cindy Godwin and Mike DeVries and overseen by Board Chair Marcia Krumwiede, organized presentations by four local charities who were finalists in two categories for major funding from our 2011 Car Show proceeds. Two finalists each presented in two categories to compete for these funds. The first was in the category of serving seniors in our community and the second was in the area of jobs retraining. After representatives from each charity had ten minutes to make their pitch for their program to club members and to answer questions, you each had the opportunity to vote on your selection for each category.
Our members have voted and your selections are as follows: 1) Pima Council on Aging, senior homebound meal delivery program and 2) the YWCA "YWorks" program to train/retrain 350 women annually (80% of whom are veterans) so that they can become employed. Each charity will be given $12,500 in August and are expected to assist our club in the 2012 Car Show with the opportunity to have a second major portion given to them in March 2013.
Many thanks to this committee for their hard work in soliciting and reviewing grant proposals, and in organizing the presentations and process so that our members could all be engaged in the decisions of the recipients of our Community Grants dollars.
Hi Everyone, this is the last opportunity you have to participate in a very fun little year-end project of mine! I would really like to get a photo of each of our members that was taken sometime between birth and 19 years of age. You can email them to me or Mary Laughbaum or give them to Mary on Wednesday to scan in and she will return them promptly. I have about 70+ members photos and some of them have some amazing stories associated with them! So, please don't deprive your fellow members of your participation!
Also, this week is the final opportunity for you to sign up for the Change of Administration Party on Saturday evening, June 30th, at Skyline Country Club. Cocktail hour will start at 5:30 p.m. and an expansive buffet dinner will be served starting at 6:30 p.m. We promise to keep our change of administration duties brief and the highlight of the evening will be the entertainment of our very own member, John McCaleb, and his band, the Rillito River Band. There will be lots of dancing and laughter so please make sure that you join us.The last day to sign up on line or by calling our Rotary office is Wednesday so don't forget!
Final Request for Your Photo and Sign Up for COA Party!
The highest honor that our club can bestow upon a member is the Orville McPherson award. For those of you who may not been familiar with this Award it was so named in honor of our late member Orville McPherson who was a charter member of RCoT since its founding April 1, 1921. He was the first secretary and was active in the initial efforts to start Rotary in Tucson. Orville received local and national recognition for his community service which included assisting with the establishment of Tucson's municipal airport and our Veteran's Hospital. He was named Tucson's Bi-Centennial Man of the Year on his birthday in 1976.
This award was created in his honor to be given to a member of the Rotary Club of Tucson who best exemplifies the ideals of Rotary and is a member who consistently goes above and beyond to make the Rotary Club of Tucson a very special place for us all. Since its creation we've had 28 recipients of this award including this year's honoree, Jon Wang. who was surprised with the announcement at this past week's meeting. Jon joined our club February 1, 1983, sponsored by Charlie O' Dowd. Jon became involved and was chosen to serve on our Board of Directors in 1989-91 serving under Past President and last year's recipient of this award, Jim Ronstadt.
Jon was born in a Buddhist temple (converted in wartime to a temporary hospital) in Kweiyang, China to a London-educated physician of Chinese descent and an adventurous lady from South Carolina who taught dance and physical education at Yenching University in Peking. There were difficult times and his parents had to hide in the hills of China with Jon, who was just a toddler, until his father managed to get his family to the USA. It has been observed that his ability to run has served him well and made him a regular on the Tucson Rotary running team. He proudly graduated from Princeton where it is rumored that he supplemented his college income as a pool shark. You may have seen his recent 50th graduation photo at the Princeton reunion, but in case you missed it, here is another one. Jon completed his MD at the University of New Mexico, specializing in orthopedic medicine, then packed his dufflebag for an internship in New York City. Jon's patriotism is well known. He is a decorated U.S. Army Special Forces Vietnam veteran. In his own words, he "volunteered for an extraordinary educational program. I learned how to jump out of perfectly good aircraft in flight and then went on to Special Forces Officers' School for training in ambushes, raids, insurgency, counterinsurgency, escape and evasion, weapons, radios, demolitions, and almost everything else one would need to survive a weekend in New York City." He has had a long and wonderful career as an orthopedic surgeon and continues to serve on the medical team for University of Arizona Athletics and the Fiesta de los Vaqueros Rodeo. Jon is also a Life Honorary Member of the Centurions.
Jon was elected to serve as our President of RCoT for the year of 2006-2007. While he has served on many committees and served our club well, his claim to fame was his vision to seek a repeatable signature fundraiser that would use "other people's money and our club members' energy and time". This push led then President-Elect Arnie Jacobsen to 'father' the idea for our first Car Show. During Jon's term as President, he put together the team that set up the Tucson Classics Car show which, after five years, has generated over $400,000. He served as the Chairman of the Car Show in the second and third year. This past year, he designed, marketed, and sold a new Rotary polo shirt to our club members.
Jon is a Paul Harris Fellow plus one. He has served on our club's Foundation since 2005-06 and this year as the President of the RCoT Foundation. He has stepped forward and agreed to serve as the Assistant Governor for District 5500 for our new Rotary year starting July 1st. Jon is happily married to his lovely wife of 36 years, Noreen, and they have two sons, Davin and Nolan. Perhaps most importantly, Jon is a humble leader who provides inspiration and has mentored many of us. He does this with kindness, wisdom, and best of all, a very dry wit and sense of humor. He is never afraid to be silly in front of us, and he is always willing to make members laugh, especially at his own expense. Jon is an outstanding Rotarian and our members have gained immeasurably from his example.
Please see Jon's letter of gratitude below.
THIS YEAR'S ORVILLE MCPHERSON RECIPIENT: JON WANG!
My twenty-nine years in the first Rotary Club in Tucson have provided many gifts. Personal examples by great Rotarians have significantly enhanced my education and behavior. Opportunities have been priceless and have blessed me with personal growth I could not have achieved elsewhere. The history, accomplishments, and continuing projects of Rotary, locally and internationally, have enormously expanded my vision and motivation for improving the conditions through the family of man (and woman!).
I am not the deserving awardee. All credit to Rotary!
I am grateful.
Sincerely,
Jon B. Wang
This week, our RCoT Foundation Treasurer, Richard Bratt will be busy wiring $8,228 to the Accra East Rotary Club in Accra, Ghana, West Africa who will then use these funds to make a variety of improvements to St. Kizito's Technical School in Ghana. The funds make up two separate District Simplified Grants which are part of an overall prject to provide classroom furniture, science equipment, and vocational training equipment for a Science Resource Center at this school in the remote village of Mepe, Ghana, West Africa.
Past President (and newest Orville McPherson recipient) brought this project to RCoT and he and District 5500 Grants Chair, Sally Montagne, convinced President Joni to commit $2,000 of our RCoT Foundation's discretionary funds for the purpose of purchasing classroom furniture. These dollars represent 50% of the District Simplified Grant #1, sponsored by our club and were matched by District 5500, for a total of $4,000. The District Simplified Grant #2 was sponsored by the Sierra Vista Sunrise Rotary Club, that included $2,232 from that club and was matched by $1996 by District 5500. The balance of the funds came from a variety of sources including private donations of non-Rotarians and Rotarians, $1,182 from past-District Governor Ernie Montagne's Africa projects account, and three relatives of Pamela Bortoletto, a US Peace Corp Volunteer from Tucson who is serving as the project coordinator.
While the sourcing of funds can often be a bit complicated in order to get the most amount of available matching grants, these types of projects demonstrate how Rotarians can make a difference internationally by collaborating in a variety of ways to create an overall improvement in the lives of many people that we will never meet. In this case, the local community in Ghana has donated the labor for the building and the US Peace Corps obtained a grant to supervise the volunteer workers. The local community in Mepe will continue to provide donated labor to paint and fix up the inside of the new classroom. In small ways, you all, as members of our club, will make a tremendous impact on a small community in West Africa and forever on the lives of those who will benefit from the new Science Recource Center. Thank you to Jon Wang for promoting this and especially to Sally Montagne for shepherding this project to acquire the funding that will be necessary to have a successful outcome!
Ghana's St. Kizito Technical High School Benefits From Rotarian Donations
Each time I have the opportunity to write one of these articles, I am more impressed by the depth and diversity of experiences of our members. If you attended our meeting this past week, you heard a bit about our member, Christine Harvey who is celebrating her birthday on June 29th. Christine has had an amazing and interesting career both in the US and abroad in Europe. She joined RCoT on February 13, 2002, sponsored by the late great Billy Joe Varney. Christine and her husband Tom moved to Tucson seeking a warm and friendly place after living in Europe for 23 years.
Christine and Tom initially moved to London when Tom worked for IBM, intending to stay for just a year. But Christine went to work, started her own export consultancy company, and so they stayed. She later started a sales training company and extended that concept to starting a sales training company in Czechoslovakia just after Communism left. While there she served on the Chamber of Commerce and Industry in London, eventually being elected Chairman, the first woman and first American to be elected to that position.
With all of these experiences she decided to become an author of business books which, to date, include 7 books: "Secrets of the World's Top Sales Performers", "In Pursuit of Profit", "Successful Selling in a Week", "Successful People Skills in a Week", "Successful Person Impact in a Week", "Can a Girl Run for President?", and "Public Speaking and Leadership Building". Perhaps she could be recruited for a program that might even boost our Car Show ticket sales!
She had previously been a very active member of Zonta, which like Rotary, is a service club that started in Chicago for the purpose of promoting and improving the health, education, and welfare of women all around the world. It has 36,000 members in 63 countries. She served as an international board member for Zonta, making policy decisions along with other board members from 13 countries. Christine often served as the 'cultural' translator between the Americans and the Europeans since she knew both cultures and could help correct misunderstandings.
Just five months prior to joining our club, Christine found herself in the living room of Beth and Bob Walkup the first Sunday after 9/11. The group that met that day decided to develop a Citizen's Corp for Homeland Security. Christine was subsequently elected Chair of that group, networked countrywide with other groups, and they were later recognized by the White House for their progress. She has also founded the group "Women Impacting Tucson". This group is open to all and meets every first Monday at the Manning House downtown. Attendees pay for their own lunch and share what they are doing in their business and in the community. I was privileged to attend a few weeks ago, and there were also several men present!
Christine and Tom have three grown children: two daughters who live in Florida and a son who lives here in Tucson. They have six grandchildren, including two in Tucson. We've all had the privilege of meeting Felicia Harvey, age 9, when Christine has brought her to a number of our meetings. Felicia also participated in our 2011 Car Show. Christine is very proud of this budding future Rotarian. Felicia will be attending Basis School next year. Christine loves to travel with her husband and it is pretty amazing that she has any time for this considering how active she is in our community and with her family. She serves as a Greeter, and has been active on our Membership Recruitment and Retention Committee, as well as in our strategic planning efforts in the past. She has volunteered to participate on the Social Network Committee recently formed. I hope that you agree that we are very lucky to have this talented and capable woman as a member of our club!
President JONI CONDIT opened her penultimate meeting as president with her usual style and grace. KEITH COBB provided the invocation; GORDON SHAW led the pledge and song. JERRY HARRIS introduced guests.
Birthday kids were: MARCIA KRUMWIEDE, who thanked her sponsors (her grandfather GEORGE CODD and BRUCE BEACH) and committee chairs under her board leadership; CHERYL HOUSE, who thanked sponsor MARK IRVIN and mentor ROGER HARWELL plus her committee chairs; CHRISTINE HARVEY, who urged her fellow Rotarians to emulate her sponsor, BILLY JOE VARNEY, and recruit new club members; and NINA TRASOFF, who thanked sponsor DREW VACTOR and friend ASA BUSHNELL, as well as JOHN MCCALEB and the club in general for friendship and support.
DAVE GALLAHER, president-elect-elect, introduced new member ALLYN BULZOMI, thoughtfully spelling his last name to assist this mystery editor to get it right. ALLYN has recently returned to Tucson from California, where he was a Rotary president and asparagus fryer (ask him). DAVE’s lengthy introduction had the club begging for “more, more…” and President JONI threatening a fine.
JIM RONSTADT presented past-President JON WANG with the club’s highest honor, the ORVILLE MCPHERSON award. JIM noted some of JON’s achievements, including twice chairing the car show and an upcoming tour as District 5500 assistant governor.
Sergeant at Arms MATT BLAIR fined JON WANG for his gaudy Princeton jacket and ALAN SCHROPE for publicity related to Valley Animal Hospital. KEVIN WONG gave new member JOHN HARLOW his blue badge.
MARCIA KRUMWIEDE announced RCOT’s grant recipients: Pima Council on Aging’s meals program and YWCA’s jobs training program. Each will receive half its $25,000 request now and the remainder after participating in the 2012 Car Show.
President JONI reported on the delivery of wheelchairs to Nogales, Sonora.
VICKIE JACOBS introduced speaker Harry George, a noted venture capitalist, who chaired the Entrepreneurial Economy for Tucson Task Force. He reported on a study showing Tucson’s economy needs to develop home-grown businesses. Large amounts of capital, ideally including a state-backed effort, are required for successful start-ups of knowledge-based businesses.
This is my latest opportunity to write a "President's Corner" and while I have to admit that I am looking forward to sitting again in the audience with all of you and watching Jim Lubinski do what I know will be a terrific job as President, I want to say that it has been a privilege and an honor to be able to serve as your President this year. As I know the other past-Presidents would agree, this role is a unique one that offer a special glimpse into the many facets of our members and all that you do for our community and the world beyond.
During Charlotte Harris' year as President, our club decided to participate in a visioning and strategic planning process involving more than thirty of our members and some of the District leaders at the time. We developed a five year Strategic Plan establishing goals for membership, fundraising, projects, and our public image. When Marianne Freitas became President, she took this Strategic Plan and established club goals that would help us move towards our Five Year Strategic Vision.
Last year at this time, after returning from the Rotary International Convention in New Orleans, I did the same, asking each of your Board of Directors to add and modify my proposed goals for our club. I am pleased to report that we have surpassed all of these goals with the exception of membership. RI's President, Kalyan Banerjee, established the theme for 2011-2012 to "Reach Within to Embrace Humanity." He said that this year would be the year for the individual Rotarian, the year when we recognize and applaud all that they do for Rotary and for the lives of others whom they do not know and have not met." I believe that the members of our club have exemplified this theme and have reached within to recognize, aid, and applaud many people that we will only know through compelling stories or photographs.
I hope that you have all enjoyed your past year in Rotary as much as I have. There have been many opportunities for members to have fun and enjoy one another, both in our meetings and outside of meetings, including two home hospitality weeks, wine tasting dinners, and hiking groups. During the year, we had marvelous programs thanks to a very active Program Committee led by Jim Lubinski and Ken Light.
With thanks to Charlotte Harris' coordination and Honorary Member, Faye Morse's generosity for matching points, our club finished our year at 124% of the goal for the Annual Programs Fund. We had numerous Paul Harris fellowships awarded during the year, including both new members and repeat PHF. Our fifth annual Car Show exceeded our goal of a net of $80,000, under the leadership of Joe Pennington and many others, and we have been able to continue a generous support of Reading Seed as well as to fund two not-for-profit enterprises selected recently by our members following the careful vetting of candidates by our hardworking Community Charities Grant Committee.
Our past President Hugh Thompson took an impressive and talented GSE team to the middle East and our District hosted a wonderful Middle East group in return. This visiting GSE team was able to participate in the November El Tour de Tucson Ride To End Polio. co-chaired by our very own Gary Hirsch. This Ride raised more than $100K towards ending polio and gained Tucson Rotary a significant amount of international recognition. Gary was a most deserving Red Rose Recipient for his efforts.
Our club members are generous with both their financial donations and their time. You participated in many community service projects that included: Red Cross Drives, the Norma Peal Book Drive and Goodwill Industries Clothing Drive, Food Bank drives, repainting of the Men's Shelter, repainting of an Amphi School building, preparation of a vegetable garden for the Marshall Home for Men, support for thirteen U of A and Pima College scholarships, and the active support of a RYLA club. Our members participated in the annual bell-ringing for the Salvation Army and yet another very successful trip to San Carlos to help support the school children there. Members Vic Jacobs, Tom Andrews, and Dave Gallaher provided personal support for the Youth Exchange students in our District.
This year our club completed an amazing number of international projects through the perseverance, contributions, and focus of our members. These included the successful completion of a multi-year wheelchair project in Nogales, Sonora, participation in a tri-country water project in Jordan, a District matching grant to complete a solar lighting project in Tanzania, and support for a District matching grant as part of a multi-grant project in a classroom in Ghana, Africa. International projects are challenges that require financial support from members, leadership within the club and the District, and perseverance to see the project through when cultural and other challenges arise. The benefit of a large club is that we have many members who have a passion to make a difference not only in our community but in the world beyond the US.
Leadership at the District level helped us to accomplish many of our goals. Our club served as this past fall's host for the District 5500 Conference with the superb leadership of Bob Ernstein and the help of many of our members. Charlotte Harris served as the Assistant District Governor for District 5500 and helped a number of clubs besides her own RCoT to accomplish their goals. I can personally attest to the fact that Charlotte has helped to insure that our club has gotten credit for the generosity of our members and made sure that the accounting for Paul Harris fellowship has been accurate and timely. Past President Jon Wang has stepped forward and will serve as an Assistant District Governor in the coming year. Sally Montagne joined our club during this year after relocating to Tucson from Sierra Vista and was subsequently nominated and selected as the Governor Elect for 2014-15. Alan Schrope also served our club and our District by co-chairing the District Public Relations Committee that looked at what we need to do to move our local Rotary clubs along in terms of technology and social media. You will see much of these ideas come to fruition in the coming year. Our Club had considerable public exposure and recognition during the 2011 Car Show thanks to member Mary Martin who secured $250K worth of advertising. Our Club's Facebook and Twitter accounts were further developed and will undoubtedly become more important as we recruit new members.
Growing our membership continues to be a challenge. We have 228 members at year end, down from where we began at 235. We added 23 new members but lost several members to death and more than 28 to relocation, business difficulties, and other challenges. The start up of a new club in downtown Tucson on Wednesdays at noon added to our membership challenge. Nevertheless, changing this trend and bringing in new members is the lifeblood of our Club. Jim Lubinski spearheaded a committee this year that surveyed our members to learn what you collectively like best about our club and what can be changed or improved. I hope you will embrace some of the new ideas that Jim and his board will try in the coming months.
We are fortunate to have an amazingly dedicated and professional Executive Director, Mary Laughbaum, as well as our part-time employee, Arla Stader. Mary attended the Large Club Conference for the first time this year and brought back many ideas and suggestions to help our club improve and grow. Our club members are very active and no president or board could manage well without someone of Mary's caliber. She is the glue and the organization that makes it all happen like clockwork. I'd like to publicly thank Mary for all that she does for the Rotary Club of Tucson and its members. She exemplifies Rotary's ideals and lives the Four Way test in all that she says and does.
Hopefully, through this President's Corner and last week's you've been able to revisit mentally the wide range of projects, events, and fundraising that all of you collectively and individually have accomplished. I am unbelievably proud to be a member of this club and honored to know each and every one of you. I hope to see all of you on Wednesday and at the Change of Administration Party on Saturday.
With my highest regards and thanks,Joni
Justice is administered in the United States through an adversarial system that contemplates that each party have an opportunity to present every part of their case before a judge, jury, and the adverse party. This system presents an opportunity for each side to both present proof and have the quality of that proof examined before an impartial trier of fact.
This past weekend, in Nogales, Sonora, 100 people of all ages received “rough rider” wheelchairs through our international collaboration between the Rotary Club of Tucson and the Nogales Sur Rotary Club. Four RCoT members, Bob Logan, Jim Lubinski, Sally Montagne, and Joni were met at the border by a lovely young woman, Viridiana Aguilar, a 28 year-old computer engineer who joined the Nogales Sur club this past year. She escorted us through the border and we soon realized that we were fortunate to have her with us since none of us spoke fluent Spanish and we were bringing in four wheelchairs that were brought to Tucson to show our club what these chairs were all about. Viri explained that we were Rotarians and the customs official shared that he was a former Rotarian and finally just waved us through.
Viri’s husband, Emanuel (a psychiatrist and former Rotarian) met us on the other side of the border with their large SUV and their two beautiful young children. Bob and Emanuel strapped the wheelchairs to the bike rack on the back of the SUV and off we went. The Nogales Sur Club had arranged the wheelchair distribution ceremony at an art gallery and the majority of their club’s 20 members were patiently waiting for us to arrive along with wheelchair recipients and their family members. Omar Montiel, the Nogales Sur Club President greeted us enthusiastically with kisses on both cheeks. We made instant friends with all of the club members.
This project has had many bumps and turns over the past three plus years and some of us came to appreciate the differences in culture along the way. Hugh Thompson initially approached President Charlotte with the idea for the grant proposed by a long time U of A pediatrician, Dr. Duke Duncan, who helped us to write the matching grant. Our initial efforts and some grant dollars were focused on developing a wheelchair shop in Nogales where disabled people would be employed to build and fit custom wheelchairs to needy recipients. Our former member, Jeff Abbott, contributed many hours of his time visiting Nogales trying to help to facilitate this project. The shop came to fruition and the disabled staff are assembling and fitting chairs for recipients. This past year, in an effort to meet the needs and serve more people in Nogales who desperately needed these sturdy “rough rider” chairs, the Nogales Sur Club and RCoT sought an additional avenue. In the past few months, before the expiration of the grant, we were able to use the balance of our grant dollars have 100 wheelchairs build by the Bertha O. Foundation in Mexico.
The Nogales Sur Club donated some funds toward the project as well as helping to coordinate the order to produce the chairs and to screen and select the 100 needy recipients for the chairs. It made the challenges of the past few years all worthwhile to see the faces of those who were expectantly waiting and to get the hugs and thanks as they were helped into their new wheelchairs. The first recipient, a sweet elderly woman, just glowed and repeatedly thanked us as she sat in her chair. Bob Logan, our International Chair for the past two years, remarked, “it was all worth it!” We only regretted that Jeff could not be there to help us celebrate the day and to witness the good that his efforts had generated.
Along the way, we truly did experience the Four Way “Test” trying very hard to find the truth when there were differences between constituents in Nogales. We worked very hard to find a resolution that was fair to all. We certainly experienced the building of friendships with the warm and caring Nogales Sur Club, and most of all, we were touched that our mutual efforts were able to benefit so many people.
Harry George has more than 40 years experience in founding, operating and investing in successful rapid growth technology-related companies. He co-founded Solstice Capital in 1995. Solstice is a venture capital fund investing in early-stage life science, information technology and clean tech companies. Solstice is currently managing its second fund ($57 Million) and has invested in a total of 44 companies since inception.
President JONI CONDIT called the meeting to order right on time.
PAT ZUMBUSCH gave the invocation. DON ROLLINGS led us in a stirring rendition of “America the Beautiful” accompanied by GARY GETHMANN on the piano. DARRELL STEWART introduced our guests and visiting Rotarians (with help from Arla).
Happy Birthday to PAT ZUMBUSCH; DENNIS DRISCOLL who claimed he hadn’t eaten a Doubletree cookie in 14 years; GORDON GRAHAM who, despite popular opinion, did not help PAT LENNON get through 3rd grade; and DARRELL STEWART, who showed us the ‘Rotary Tea Shirt’ given to him by JON WANG.
JIM MURPHY, KATHY KITIGAWA, and DOT KRET came up to honor all of the 2011 Car Show student volunteers. Special thanks to Alpha Phi Omega, Assisteens Auxiliary of the Assistance League of Tucson, the University of Arizona Rotaract Club, and Reading Seed.
Despite the incessant ringing of an anonymous cell phone and the calls for fines, President JONI introduced MIKE DEVRIES to start the grant presentations. LEW RIGGS introduced Janet Marcotte from the YWCA; Joy Tucker and Chef Jon Wirtis from Caridad Community Kitchen Training Program to explain their Worker Retraining Proposals. CARMEN BERMUDEZ introduced Jane Bakos and Cindy Quinn from St. Elizabeth’s Health Center, and Debby Adams from PCOA and Richard Barrios from Catholic Social Services to explain the Senior proposals.
All the grant proposals were excellent. Many questions were asked and answered. We were left to make the tough decision of voting on the most worthy grant proposals.
President JONI concluded the meeting with a toast to the all of the volunteers for the 2011 Car Show.
Our wonderful President JONI CONDIT called one of her last meetings to order.
TED KIRACOFE graced us with a meaningful invocation which was followed by SONNY SOLOT who led us in the pledge, and then was accompanied by GARY GETHMANN, in a rousing, and I mean ROUSING rendition of America, with extra emphasis on “liberty and freedom.” JIM RONSTADT introduced guests and visiting Rotarians. We had birthdays celebrated by Rotarians who have distinguished themselves in Rotary and with their impressive lives and careers. KEITH COBB, GARY HIRSCH, PAT RASKOB, and FRANK ZUNNO.
Certainly a highlight of our weekly gathering was provided by the irrepressible BOB LOGAN who never disappoints in his jocular but substantive presentations of Paul Harris Fellows. Congratulations to KEITH COBB, SUZANNE LAWDER, and DENNIS DRISCOLL. CINDY GODWIN spoke on behalf of the Grants Committee. See Cindy’s recent email on voting for recipients of funds raised by the car show.
MATT BLAIR - who handles his duties as Sergeant at Arms with flair and acumen - raffled prizes to fortunate recipients of winning ducats.
DOT KRET introduced our program which was provided by Emily Nottingham who is the President of the Board of Directors of the Arizona Trial Association. Did you know the Arizona Trail is 817 miles long and Arizona is only 450 miles long? How can that be? The Trail isn’t straight - it wanders. Emily whetted the appetites of serious hikers and told us all how there are many ways to get involved in many activities offered by her association.
Fittingly, JONI closed the meeting with a tribute to our Armed Forces and the memory of their heroism and sacrifices during the invasion at D-Day.
Don't forget to sign up on the website for our Change of Administration Party on Saturday evening, June 30th. If you would prefer, you can call Mary Laughbaum at our Rotary office to sign up. This fun evening will be held at Skyline Country Club. Cocktails will begin at 5:30 p.m. followed by a wonderful buffet dinner with a variety of selections to choose from. John McCaleb and his band, the Rillito River Band, will be providing some terrific entertainment. Jim Lubinski will be installed as your new President along with the rest of the board who will serve you in 2012-2013. We promise to make the formalities brief!
Sign Up For Our June 30th Change of Administration Party!
The Club’s strategic plan calls for us to continue or develop projects, like Reading Seed, that make a significant impact in the community. The success of the Tucson Classics Car Show has enabled us to not only meet our commitments to Reading Seed Children’s Literacy Program, but to expand our grantmaking to meet other community needs.
This year, the funds raised from the 2012 Tucson Classics Car Show will once again support Reading Seed (now a program of Literacy Connects), and low-income seniors. In addition, we have identified a new area where our funding can have a significant impact. In response to ongoing local unemployment and economic conditions, the Community Grants Committee and Board decided to focus on helping adults find and keep jobs. We will be funding an organization that retrains and helps those who have lost their jobs through layoffs, business closing, and foreign competition, including returning veterans.
This Wednesday you will be voting for the two organizations, in addition to Reading Seed, that will receive Car Show proceeds. Four finalists in two categories will be making presentations to the Club about their programs.
Seniors:
Pima Council on Aging for meals delivered to low income seniors in their homes
St. Elizabeth’s Health Center to help cover the cost of dentures
Worker Retraining:
Community Food Bank to support a food service training program that also feeds the unemployed participants and other Food Bank recipients
YWCA to support unemployed women with training and support so they can thrive economically
You will have a chance to learn about how these nonprofits respond to serve people in need. They all have wonderful stories to tell about how our funding can make all the difference to these people. If you can’t attend this week’s meeting, look for the ballot to be sent by email after the meeting, and you can send in your vote up until 12 noon on Monday, June 18. The two organizations selected will be publicized as the recipients of the proceeds from this year’s Car Show, and become our partners in promoting and supporting the Show.
Those of you who would like to experience the wonders of the Grand Canyon but not exhaust yourselfes going to the bottom with the "buffos" might join Pat Heath and me in exploring all the sights and activities of the rim. Pat and I are working together to put together a list of activities that will be available to us. These could be done singly or together. The dates are March 20th-23rd. leaving for home on the AM of the 24th. 2013. Each individual is responsible for getting their own lodging and time is of the essence. Pat has a comprehensive list of possibilities and can be reached at 990-5820 or (pheath629@aol.com). The canyon's website is www.grandcanyonlodges.com or call 888-297-2757. Pat, Cheryl and I have made reservations at the lodges on the rim. There will be a meeting after Rotary on the 20th of June to explore peoples interest is this alternative experience. Contact me at 299-4930 and Jeff Heath at 991-7457. See you on the 20th. Rotary Regards, Hugh Thompson
For those members who have belonged to our Club before April 2008, you will probably remember our beloved member, Clarence "Stub" Ashcraft. Stub served as our Club President for the year, 1972-1973, and was honored with our Orville McPherson award. Stub was reverent about our country and it was most fitting that he was born on Flag Day, June 14th. Appropriately, he was a distant cousin of Betsy Ross.
While Flag Day is not an official federal holiday, you couldn't have told Stub that! In 1916, President Woodrow Wilson issued a proclamation that officially established June 14 as Flag Day and then in August, 1949, National Flag Day was established by an Act of Congress. Stub was born on that holiday two years later in 1918. This day had even more special meaning for Stub than just celebrating his birthday; the day was one of honor for him. He fought in the South Pacific during World War II, rising to the rank of major in the US Army.
Stub was a U of A graduate of 1941 and later long time U of A employee including serving as the first director of the Student Union Memorial building in 1951. He served as the U of A Facilities Coordinator of the Athletic Department from 1965-1982 and bought a huge American flag that hung for years in the middle of McCale until the scoreboards replaced it. Stub was among the most avid of Wildcat fans He never missed a football homegame from 1945 until he died, nearly 400 straight games.
His attendance at Rotary was much the same. He belonged to our club for 57 years. You could always count on seeing Stub sitting at the middle center table looking straight at the podium. As one of the early female members, I recall Stub having some difficulties accepting the idea of women joining the club, but he came around eventually. I recall one Flag day, in particular, when Stub went to the podium for his birthday and asked all of the women to stand. Our decidedly small group stood expectantly, waiting for a nice statement, but instead Stub told us to each put $2 extra dollars in the scholarship cups! We didn't know whether to be outraged or to laugh, but we each sat down and put money in the cups. I am pretty certain that Stub wrote a big scholarship check that day and thoroughly enjoyed the moment!
So this Wednesday at Rotary, when we say the plege and sing, please think of how much it meant to Stub and give it that extra "Sonny Solot" Umph! Happy Birthday Dear Stub. We miss you.
Please join us for our sixth annual Tucson Classics Car Show at St. Gregory College Preparatory School on October 13, 2012. Admission tickets are only $ 5.00 each and also gives you one chance to win this outstanding 2001 Corvette convertible -or- $10,000 cash! Admission for children under 18 is free when accompanied by a paid adult, and you must be 18 to win the prize.
Visit our websiteTucsonClassicsCarShow.comto purchase your ticket(s) on line, or if you have a car you would like to enter in the show. Don't miss this fabulous family event, your chance to win the car or money, and the sight of up to 450 outstanding cars and trucks.
All proceeds benefit Reading Seed Children's Literacy and other Tucson charities.
October 13, 2012 - Our Annual Tucson Classics Car Show!
You just can’t beat Southern hospitality! When it comes to smoky Southern style BBQ and Zinfandel- there’s no stopping Jerry & Audrey Harris. Their Memorial weekend wine event raised $800 for the scholarship fund! This was a record setting event for funds raised at a wine event. More ribs please and I’ll have another glass!
Audrey left no stomach empty and Jerry left no glass unfilled. Greeted with a smile and a warm welcome, their hospitality was only matched by all of the effort and care from Audrey who shared her secret to her oh-so-fantastic slow cooked hickory smoked pork ribs: taste, attention and lot of time! Her smoked pork ribs were the crowd pleaser and paired with Jerry’s selection of premium Ridge and Turley wines set the tone for a terrific evening.
Joe Pennington cutting up platters and platters of ribs, Mickey Pennington providing her wine perspectives, and Roger Harwell - the smile on his face after Jerry totaled up the wine raffle donations - a true team effort by Rotarians!
The wine fellowship committee would like to extend a huge THANK YOU to Jerry and Audrey Harris for their unparalleled generosity and graciousness.
Our Past-President Jon Wang recently attended his 50th reunion at Princeton University! We have to ask ourselves if all graduates of Princeton dress like this? (Perhaps we should ask Don Rollings who also attended Princeton, albeit somewhat later.)
By the way, Princeton's collection of large sculpture is still considered to be one of the most dramatic permanent displays. The collection was made possible by a one million dollar gift in memory of Lieutenant John B. Putnam Jr., who enrolled at Princeton University in 1940 but left after two years to enlist in the Air Force. He flew nine combat hours over the Normandy Beaches on D-Day, June 6, 1944, and 53 combat mission before crashing to his death in England on July 19, 1944 at age 23. He was awarded the Air Medal and six silver leaf clusters and, posthumously, the Distinguished Flying Cross "for extraordinary achievement and heroism in aerial combat." It is fitting that we recognize his sacrifice this week.
JACK PARRIS gave the invocation in a manner befit his formidable media history.
ERNIE “Bongiorno!” MINCHELLA started the choir with “God Bless America”. Fortunately, our harmony is not getting any worse… yet.
GARY GETHMANN again played piano extraordinaire.
PHIL GLUT introduced our guests.
Birthday kids included CHUCK SAWYER, JOE NEVIN (a 30 year member), IRENE DECKER claimed the meeting was “all about her birthday”, JAN GREEN and the always entertaining former club president SCOTT VAUGHAN cranked out a repertoire of one liners that were “a hit!” JONI asked, “Should we draft him back?” We’ll have to discuss that further with his agent.
DAVID LOVITT re-introduced MARK IRVIN. Did I spell it right? We missed Mark while he took on the Rio Nuevo nightmare. David mentioned that this may be the only time that both members were introduced by each other. Thank you for your grueling community service with RN, the Boys & Girls Club and everything else, Mark! Welcome back!
Finger & lips, Sergeant at Arms, MATT BLAIR, auctioned in his very entertaining and “unique” style.
TOM ANDREWS announced that all hikers returned without having to call Search & Rescue after hiking the top of Mt. Lemmon. Great training for the Grand Canyon next spring!
DREW VACTOR announced the Change of Administration Party on June 30th. He did a great job standing in for RITA MARSHALL, although not quite as easy on the eyes, per this male mystery editor.
Joni made a few announcements including that we were going to be dark on May 30th. Hope those of you that showed up, any way, brought candles.
PAULINE HECHLER introduced a fascinating program. Brain Kish, Senior VP for the Central Development University of Arizona Foundation enlightened us about the differences between Gen X and Y and how it may affect our businesses.
The Arizona National Scenic Trail contains over 800 miles of some of the most spectacular scenery in the world. The dream of a Flagstaff school teacher, after twenty five years of work and thousands of volunteer hours, it is now a continuous path across Arizona
It is that time of year again, when it is too hot to think about doing much except to sit in the pool or inside in the air conditioning! But we have a party planned that will convince you that summer time in Tucson is the place to be! Our annual Change of Administration Party is lined up for Saturday evening, June 30th, at Skyline Country Club. Cocktails will begin at 5:30 p.m. followed by dinner. You can't beat the beautiful view of the city lights and our member, Jesse Thorpe, General Manager of Skyline has developed a wonderful and varied menu.
We promise to keep the "administrative" transfer short and sweet so that we can all have the opportunity to enjoy our club members and their significant other or guest. This year we have extra special entertainment planned: our very own John McCaleb and the Rillito River Band!
You will be able to sign up to attend the party on our website later this week. If you do not have access to the website or have difficulties, you can call Mary Laughbaum in our Rotary office or contact Rita Marshall, Drew Vactor, or me to get signed up! Please help us celebrate the end of one Rotary year and the beginning of a great one!
Our Rotary District 5500 has invited any Rotarian interested in attending the installation of District Governor Randy Brooks and other District Officer and leaders to the Installation Luncheon that is scheduled for Sunday, June 24, 2012 at the Omni Tucson National. Registration begins at 11 a.m., 11:30 social time, and luncheon and ceremonies beginning at noon to 1:30 p.m.
Cost is $50 per person or $400 for a table of 8. Reservations and payments are needed by June 18. It is business casual and they plan a no host bar. Please send reservation requests and payment to:
Marana Rotary Club, c/o John Dooling at P.O. Box 91502, Tucson, Arizona 85752
District 5500 Installation of 2012-2013 Officers & Leaders
Each generation has its own qualities, unique habits, and general personality. Generations X and Y are no different. While we must be careful not to make quick judgments about large group of people, it is critical that we better understand this increasingly large portion of our customer base. Brian Kish, Senior Vice President for Central Development at the Unversity of Arizona Foundation, will do a quick review of who makes up this group of people and, more importantly, will teach us about their philosophical needs, habits, and preferences.
Generations X and Y - The Changing Faces of Our Customers
President JONI CONDIT opened today’s meeting with the announcement that after a long illness, ARLA STADER’S husband, Orin passed away on Tuesday. We observed a moment of silence for Orin and will keep Arla in our good thoughts and prayers.
CLEM LESLIE asked us to join his invocation by reciting the Rotary 4-Way Test. For those who don’t remember it we were allowed to peek. MAGGIE KOSINSKI led the meeting in the Pledge and a rousing version of “American the Beautiful.” GARY GETHMANN, in his summer attire, accompanied us on the piano.
BRUCE TUNZE introduced today’s guests. Birthdays were celebrated by JO DECHATELET, GERRY HALLOWELL, PAT LENNAN and BOB WEBB.
CHARLOTTE HARRIS presented MARSHA HIRSH with a Paul Harris Fellow as husband SID HIRSH looked on proudly. Charlotte also announced that Honorary Member, FAYE MORSE has offered one-for one matching points for Rotarians who make contributions to the Rotary International Foundation’s Annual Programs Fund. See Charlotte for details.
Sergeant at Arms, MATT BLAIR did not fine HUGH THOMPSON for a recent article about the Rotary Foundation’s Group Study Exchange trip that Hugh led. TOM ANDREWS (wearing a new shirt) announced that they will only have 20 slots for the Grand Canyon hike. A “tune up” hike will take place on May 20th at the Catalina’s, “Wilderness of Rock Trail.” KEITH COBB announced that advanced Rotary Car Show ticket sales have reached 7% of the total goal and he needs volunteers this weekend at the Drag Strip on Houghton Road.
DOT KRET, the Club’s resident “Rapper” introduced our speaker, Dr. Debra Hannah from the Critical Path Institute. Debra reminded us that Tuberculosis is still a health crisis with one-third of people in the world suffering from the disease.
President Joni closed the meeting with this, “Let us toast today to Rotary’s efforts, some 64 years after the UN Declaration of Human Rights, to reinforce this through its many programs to hopefully eradicate polio, build better homes, provide clean water for all, and to strive towards peace by furthering the education of young citizens of the world.”
May is the eleventh month in our Rotary year and so your Board and many of our committees are beginning to wrap up their projects and goals for the year. This month is filled with so many holidays and events including Mothers' Day, graduations, the start of summer weddings, and Memorial Day to name a few, so it is challenging to squeeze in more.
The District Area presidents and assistant District Governors meet monthly at El Parador restaurant at a wickedly early 6:45 a.m. meeting. Once I'm there and awake (somewhat questionable until the second cup of coffee!), it is a good networking meeting and an opportunity to find out what other Rotary clubs are doing. It is also a great way to hear about other club's good speakers.
Some of the interesting things that other clubs are doing: The Saguaro Club recently helped to host a "Grad Night" at Sunnyside High School, which is an event that is planned all year for the graduating seniors only and keeps them busy doing fun things, but "locked in" at the Auditorium instead of cruising around town! The Sunset Club cleaned a stretch along the Rillito River. The Kino Club fave out their Character Award Presentations to students exceling at Sunnyside schools. They are also busy planning their fundraiser Fifith Annual Gold Tournament in Green Valley, on July 28th, at San Ignacio Golf Club that will benefit Sunnyside and TUSD students.
Very interestingly, the Pantano Club revealed its "Stealth" project this morning, a Rotary calendar that is planned to come out sometime in 2013. The calendar will come with a lottery ticket and they plan 60 drawings during the year with a total of $10,000 in prizes to be given out. Other clubs can have their special events printed in the calendar and also have the opportunity to purchase a $200 ad so we could advertise our car for the 2013 Car Show!
Sally Montagne, District Governor 3 years from now, shared some things from the Bangkok International meeting. Exciting news is that India has now been polio-free for 16 months! A country/area is declared polio-free officially after three years. Rotary is now focused on Nigeria and is working with researchers and health officials to develop a new polio vaccine that will take effect better in countries where diarrhea is a prevalent problem and multiple doses have been required to take effect. I am sure that Jim will have a lot to share with all of us at his first meeting on July 11th!
Some people in life have a harder start in life than others. Some people think they have challenges never realizing how easy they have it. Then there is Mike Sagara, who against all odds, managed to be a real success in life by every definition in spite of a truly hard start. But Mike doesn't complain about it and is very thankful for his life. Mike was born in Chicago, Illinois on May 8, 1948. He was placed in a foster home to be adopted but he wasn't ever adopted. Mike lived in that foster home raised by an African-American family. Sadly, his foster father died at Mike's side of a heart attack when Mike was just three years old. If this wasn't tough enough, his foster mother died of breast cancer when he was twelve. Mike went to live with his foster sister until he was 17, when he enlisted in the Army.
Mike served with the US Army as a Medic from 1965-1968 stationed in Okinawa. When he returned stateside he started his college education at the University of Illinois, attending several colleges, and finally graduated from Illinois State University with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. He initially was pre-med, but says his dream of medicine was thwarted when he flunked physics! As they say, bad things often lead to good things, and he met his wife, Lynn, at the University of Illinois Research and Education Hospital where they were initially co-workers. Mike was first an orderly and later promoted to a cardiovascular pump technician. Lynn earned her MPh and now works at Miracle Square. They married in 1971 and have been happily married for 41 years! They have two sons, Eric (34) who lives in Newark as a Database Reporter for the Star-Ledger Newspaper, and Brad (29) who lives in Oakland and is a Data Analyst for Tango International and travels to underdeveloped countries.
Mike says that he started his career in the pharmaceutical business for all of the wrong reasons! After he and Lynn moved to the Chicago suburbs, he met his neighbor who worked for Roerig, a pharmaceutical company. They became fast friends and Mike was in awe of all of his friend's perks (prizes, awards, trips, expense accounts, company car, etc.). Mike thought that was great, sought an interview, and managed to get hired by Lederle Laboratories, which ultimately after several mergers, was bought by Pfizer. After that, Mike returned to to college to finish his degree, after which he and Lynn relocated to Arizona because Lynn's parents lived here. Mike was employed by Ayerst Labs, which after several mergers, was bought out by none other than, Pfizer.Mike was apparently destined to work for Pfizer and today has been credited with 38 years of service!
In spite of his rough start in life, Mike has never missed an opportunity to give back to his country and his community. He has served in major roles with the Boy Scouts of America. He served as the Green Fields Country Day School Board of Trustees for six years. He has volunteered with the Red Cross from the early 1990's to present, primarily helping with disaster planning, helping families displaced by disaster (usually fire), and is currently the volunteer Public Affairs Officer and Volunteer Lead of Disaster Public Affairs! We are very fortunate that he joined the Rotary Club in 2009 and he continues to make a difference in our community!
The good news is that we have our next really fun hike planned for Sunday, May 20th up in the Catalinas... the "Wilderness of Rock Trail". We will meet early in the morning near the intersection of Tanque Verde and Catalina Highway, then carpool to the top of Mt. Lemmon, and hike the trail......but you'll have to read the "evite" on email to get the rest of the story!
The bad news is that we have so far been unsuccessful in securing additional reservations in the Grand Canyon for Spring of next year, so we will be developing a process for selecting the 20 who can go out of the 30 paid reservations we already have. We will be scheduling a meeting in the next few weeks to discuss the issue, as well as to plan our 'conditioning" hikes in preparation for the Canyon. Again, watch the "evites" for more information!
Thailand was great.... interesting, exciting, exotic, etc., but Hot and HUMID. Weatherwise, Jewel and I are glad to be back inArizona!
President JONI CONDIT opened the meeting with news of Past President GEORGE HAWKE (1969-70) passing. George sponsored over 50 members in his many years of membership. A man that will truly be missed! After a minute of silence for George Hawke, JIM RONSTADT gave us a moving Invocation. Our Pledge and Song was lead by CLEM LESLIE. Clem led the song like a real Choir Director. ERNIE MINCHELLA was seen trying to imitate Clem, but in an Italian Style. Past President GARY "IVORY KEYS" GETHMANN, accompanied on the grand piano to the tune "America the Beautiful".
JEFF RONSTADT, Gramarian, introduced our Guests and Visitors. Jeff fined himself for pronouncing the names in another language. Sargeant at Arms, MATT BLAIR, is still trying to collect the $200. Four birthdays were celebrated: TOM BROWNING, BRIAN GOLDSTEIN, MIKE SAGARA, and KEN TUCKER. None of the "birthday boys" admitted their age, but contributed money to benefit Rotary.
Past President, ROGER HARWELL (2005-2006) introduced NEW/RETURNING young member AL GROVE. Al said all of the good things Roger said about him were true and all of the bad things were half true. Welcome back Al Grove! Sergeant at Arms, MATT BLAIR and member JAY PARKER, raffled a number of great items, including a Navy Seal Flag and three Navy Seal Books courtesy of our guest speaker, Jeff, "Swimmer Dude" Utsch.
Three announcements were given raising cheers! LEE & Judy AITKEN are ready to travel from L.A. to D.C. for the Run for the Wall to honor our Veterans and help injured vets and schools along the way. JOE "The Voice" NEVIN thanks all for the support of Goodwill Industries last week. KEITH COBB thanked all who sold $1800 worth of tickets at Casino Del Sol on May 5th. He tried to copy MATT BLAIR'S accent --Keith, keep your own accent.
President Joni introduced DARRELL "many talents" STEWART, who told us that our beloved Charlie Meaker had his surgery delayed. Hopefully his important surgery will occur in the next several weeks -- in the meantime, give him calls and send cards. Darrell went on to present our speaker, Jeff Utsch, who's topic was "Navy Seals - An Instructor's Perspective". His "Hard Men do Hard Things" story of their grueling training had us all thinking about these soldiers' sacrifices to keep us free. Success and tragedy stories were told. Our soldiers' who were killed gave us their all--their lives--for our freedom. President Joni ended the meeting with a Toast and a Poem as a tribute to our friend, GEORGE HAWKE.
This coming Saturday, May 19th, from 8:30 am to 6:30 p.m. we will have a car show booth at the S. Houghton Rd. Drag strip!
We need volunteers to man the booth for two hour shifts. Please let Keith Cobb know if and when you can work this important event to help us sell tickets to our October 13th Car Show!
Dr. Debra Hanna joined the Critical Path Institute as Associate Director for the Critical Path for TB Drug Regimens consortium June of 2011. In this role, Debra leads a consortium of scientists spanning academia, industry, patient advocacy and non-profit groups focused on enabling the development of novel TB drug regimens by implementing innovative regulatory sciences tools and approaches. Prior to joining C-Path, Debra was a project team leader for multiple drug discovery and development programs
While the buffet line was still filing in, PRESIDENT JONI CONDIT called the meeting to order a few minutes late and to a rather quiet and limited audience.
To inspire us with words of inspiration was MARCIA KRUMWIEDE who in the spirit of our guest speaker found a poem that is a takeoff on John Lennon’s Imagine but to the theme of “Imagine a world with no Cancer.”
Our pledge and song was led by DAN GUARE who tried to make a joke to SONNY SOLOT but was followed by a loud jeer from the audience. His next move was to try and suck up to PRESIDENT JONI but that didn’t work so he moved on to the song “My Country 'tis of Thee “and was accompanied on the piano by PAST PRESIDENT GARY “Nice Legs” GETHMANN.
The introduction of our guests and visitors was handled magnificently by BOB LOGAN.
The Birthday Gang of ONE was all assembled and leading the way was CHARLIE MEAKER who was wished a Happy Birthday and announced a short leave of absence for surgery and to keep him in our prayers.
As our Sergeant at Arms, MATT BLAIR rounded up JOHN LEWIS who announced his just deserved retirement, PRESIDENT JONI tried to fine him for his picture in an article but his response was to call my secretary. MATT also gave a shout out to JOHN McCALEB for his winning the BBB Ethics in Business Award, way to go JOHN! Having to dig deep inside and channel the nuance of KEITH COBB, SERGEANT MATT gave a call out in his best drawl to fill the open shifts for this weekends ticket sales at the Car Show out at the casino to help jump start ticket sales for 2012 CLASSICS CAR SHOW. The call to the audience was Car Show Captains start your selling!
Taking back control PRESIDENT JONI proceeded to recognize our own and their hard work last weekend to spruce up the Primavera Foundation dining hall and kitchen. She was proud to present a check to Mike Finkelstein of the Primavera Foundation to cover the cost of the supplies that the volunteers needed to complete there job.
Starting our program way ahead of schedule, PRESIDENT JONI introduced our introducer PAT ZUMBUSCH who presented our speaker Dr. Clara Curiel of the Arizona Cancer Center and her topic was the “Diagnosis and Treatment of Skin Cancer.” How appropriate with summer right around the corner. Dr. Curiel spoke of the risk factors and the need for prevention but also a balance in maintaining the vitamin D that is provided to our systems by our exposure to the sun. Prevention and early detection are the main areas that we need to concentrate on and not let anything unusual go undiagnosed.
Even after an extended presentation, PRESIDENT JONI ended the meeting with a quote from Thomas Jefferson and reminders of the upcoming Dark Day May 30th and change of administration party June 30th then ended with the ceremonial toast.
Jeff Utsch's career in distressed real estate has encompassed all aspects of the industry, including acquisition, renovation, management, lending and sales in the Tucson area since 1992. He graduated from University of Arizona in 1991 with a Bachelors Degree in Aerospace Engineering, where he also served as captain of the Swim Team. A champion swimmer, Jeff
On Saturday May 5th, a group of RCoT members pre-sold 359 tickets to our Annual Tucson Classics Car Show in six hours at the 38th annual Rodders Day event. The Rodders event was hosted by the Tucson Street Rod Association at the Casino Del Sol and is open to vehicles produced in 1972 or older. These type of opportunities allow us to promote our Classics Car Show event to both attendees and to car owners and to learn what they are doing that is successful. Our car show event relies on pre-selling about 80% of our tickets so it is wonderful that some of our members have donated their time and efforts to attend these type of events to get us going! Thank you!
Members Sell Car Show Tickets At Annual Rodders Day Show!
Do you know that one of your members lost his hearing in his left ear after falling out of a B-17 Bomber that was mounted on top of a gas station in Portland, Oregon? While this might explain some of his other behaviors, you might be surprised to know that this happened to our member Darrell Stewart. He really didn't offer much more than that, but perhaps we can cajole him into the rest of the story! Some of you do know that Darrell Stewart is the co-chair of our club's Home Hospitality committee with Lisa Fogle and that he has also been actively involved in helping with the planning of wine fellowship gatherings as well. Darrell has been a part of the invocation and environment committees. But what many club members might not know is that Darrell was previously a long time healthcare executive. Darrell graduated from Tulane University in New Orleans with an undergraduate degree in zoological studies. He received his masters in hospital administration (MHA) from the University of Minnesota.
Darrell has had a varied and international career. He worked in Cairo, Egypt on a project for Mrs. Sadat's Wafa Wa Amal Society, designing a 1,000 bed medical center in 1974-75. He was the founding President of Alternare of Washington, a preferred provider organization (PPO) for naturopathic physicians, acupuncturists, and massage therapists contracting with insurance companies and managing 1.5 million lives. He spent twenty-three years in leadership of a multi-hospital system in Minneapolis, Olympia (WA), Tucson and Portland, Oregon. Darrell arrived in Tucson in 1985 to serve as the Administrator of St. Mary's Hospital and was named Chief Operating Officer of the Carondelet Healthcare System in 1991. Mike Harris first sponsored Darrell into the Casas Adobes Rotary club while he was at St. Mary's until he moved to the hospital system in Seattle. During his stint in Washington state, his office overlooked Puget Sound with a view of the Space Needle.
But even with this outstanding view, Darrell fortunately returned to Tucson in 2000 after deciding to take a break from working in health care to focus instead on real estate investments. He quickly became immersed back in the community serving on the boards of Open Inn Inc (for homeless youth), the American Heart Association, the Arizona Theatre Company, the Cancer Society, the Tucson Parks Foundation, and the Alzheimer's Association. He has had a long relationship with the Centurions of Carondelet St. Mary's Hospital and is a LIFE member.
Charlotte Harris sponsored Darrell into the Rotary Club of Tucson in September 2008 with the classification of real estate. Darrell is the CEO of DKS Trading Company, his Real Estate Brokerage company (staff of one per Darrell!) and is the President of a rental property company called R & D Development. He purchases homes, renovates them, and leases them out. He likes his role as landlord and has developed a variety of handyman and plumbing skills in recent years which proved to be useful last weekend when he helped to paint at the Primavera Foundation Men's Shelter.
Last week as I was heading through a neighborhood towards our RCoT Foundation board meeting, there was Darrell in the middle of the street carrying one of his small dogs and chasing another. One of his subcontractors had opened the door of one of his properties and Darrell's dog escaped. Fortunately, for all concerned, Darrell swiftly recued her from the traffic. In addition to remodeling and his dogs, Darrell likes old cars. traveling, biking, cooking, and hiking. Aren't our members just fascinating people with such diverse backgrounds and careers?!
Last week Sergeant at Arms, Matt Blair, recognized John McCaleb for the various awards that his construction company has recently earned for 2012 CotY Award for Regional Contractor for best residential kitchen over $120 and 2011 SAHBA Remodeling excellence. John has earned many such awards over the years. Matt, of course, fined John heavily for the recognition of these awards and John willingly obliged in paying some heavy fines.
But we missed recognizing him for a particularly special award and one that fits Rotary's ideals perfectly. John's company, McCaleb Construction, was also the winner of this year's Ethic's Award given out two week's ago at the 2012 Better Business Bureau of Southern Arizona's Torch Awards Luncheon. The Ethics Award honors a business for its trustworthy and honorable business practices in four primary categories. We are very proud to have Johnas an RCoT member and congratulate him and his team for this special and well-deserved honor!
Many of you probably read the article in the paper this past week announcing that C.E. Rose K-8 School was one of the seven elementary schools in the country to win a national education award for excellence. Most of you know that our members helped to start and support the reading mentor program at that school a number of years ago. This school on the south side of Tucson serves nearly 600 students. When Rotary members began volunteering as reading mentors, these students' reading skills rapidly improved. Once they were reading at grade level the students began to perform better in other subjects like math, writing, science, and social studies.
Principal Stephen Trejo commented that it really was a team effort between the students and the teachers. We know that this team also included a number of Rotarians who every week gave freely of their time to insure that students would learn to read better and consequently do better in life.
Back in 1998, Rotarians from six Tucson clubs, including RCoT, pledged to mentor and guide 101 third-graders at C. E. Rose Elementary. At that time, only 3 percent of kids from their southside neighborhood went on to college. The UA promised tuition waivers to kids who earned good grades and stayed out of trouble. Rotarians played a huge role in helping them to do just that. Last year, two best friends, Xavier Verdugo and Miguel Morales graduated from the University of Arizona. Miguel received a BA in Anthropology with a double minor in criminal justice and Spanish. Xavier received a BA in Sociology with a double minor in criminal justice and Spanish. We expect more graduations this year and beyond, largely due to the quiet and steady mentoring of Rotarian volunteers.
We didn't see a comment in last week's article about the role of Rotary in helping this school turn its ranking around, but Rotarians know that they have played a major role in their success. Thank you to all of you who've volunteered. It is great to see the public accolades this school is now receiving, and even better, to see the wonderful futures ahead of these young people!
Sometimes the contrasts in life are startling. Most Saturdays are filled with chores, laundry, grocery shopping, paying bills, doing yard work and hopefully getting to do something fun in the evening. But some Saturdays are not so mundane. For my husband, Bill and me, last Saturday began in the morning with apainting project at a men's shelter and finished the day with an evening in Tubac at an elegant and lovely fundraiser for the Santa Cruz County Foundation. Both represented opportunities to participate in something beneficial for our extended community, but the environments were polar opposites. At the same time and on the same day, one of our long time friends was declining rapidly from stage 4 cancer while her family was working feverishly to pull together her daughter's small and very private wedding, originally planned for August, so that it could happen Saturday night so that her mom could be there to witness and share in her only daughter's marriage.
On Saturday morning, bright and early, more than twenty RCoT Rotarians and several spouses met at the Primavera Foundation Shelter for men to give the facility a fresh paint job. Generous members who were unable to join the group made donations to purchase the paint and supplies. Gary Hirsch organized the group so that multiple large rooms could be painted at once. Stu Goldman, a member of the Primavera Foundation board, proposed this project to join other Rotarians across the world in an international Rotary Work Day. (If you see Stu gathering up the uneaten Doubletree cookies each week, he is taking those cookies to the men at the shelter.) For the men in this shelter, it is a last opportunity and refuge for those truly down on their luck or who are trying to recover from bad choices in their lives. For all of us who were there painting, it was a stark reminder of how fortunate we each are, in terms of family, friends, and lifestyle. It was a good opportunity to feel that we could do something that would make a difference.
By early afternoon Bill and I had to rush home to shower, change into formal attire and drive to Tubac because my company, La Posada, was helping to sponsor the Folklorico fundraiser. During dinner we toasted our friends, Lisa and Ray, in hopes that their daughter's wedding was going well and that Lisa would be able to enjoy it. But that was not to be. This afternoon, as I sat down to work on the Tucsotarian, our oldest daughter Andrea called to say that the wedding had to be postponed because our friend, Lisa, had passed away late Saturday morning. We think that she wanted her daughter's wedding day to be a happy one, without the complications of her mom's illness and impending death. April 28th was a day of contrasts for us. It is a reminder that on any given day, while perhaps a mundane one for some, could also be a day of renewal, one of joy, one of sorrow, or perhaps all of the above for someone else. It is also a reminder to make every day count, through service to others, and to tell those you cherish, that you love them dearly. I appreciate that Rotary gives me those opportunities and those reminders.
Thirty-eight years ago Tim Puntenney joined the Rotary Club of Tucson as one of those many special members sponsored into our club by George Hawke. Tim was still in his twenties and might be the youngest person ever to join our club. He is a fourth generation Arizonan. He and his fraternal twin, James, were born to Bonnie and William Puntenney in Phoenix. Tim came to Tucson to attend the U of A, and after graduating with a degree in Agriculture, he moved away from Arizona briefly to work for Kraft Foods as the personnel manage of the Champaign Works Complex.
Tim founded Cobre Building Systems, Inc. in 1973 has been a general contractor for thirty-nine years, currently working in the commercial/industrical market. A year after starting his business, George Hawke sponsored him into RCoT. Tim's son, Josh, is his business partner and states that Cobre has been privileged to continue to build for many Rotarians. Tim is also the President of Long Meadow Ranch, another family owned corporation. The ranch is in Prescott and has been in Tim's family for over fifty years! Tim is married to Diane and they are very proud of their two darling grandchildren.
Needless to say, Tim has seen a lot of changes in Rotary over the past thirty-eight years. He commented, "probably the most controversial, and yet in the end, best changes to our club was when we decided to let women join! Turns out, women really know how to get things done!"
Tim loves the camaraderie of being in Rotary and has been a very involved member over these many years, helping in every major project. He believes that Rotary has been such a success internationally as a charitable organization because of the diversity that it has embraced. He says, "I really enjoy the Car Show! To see everyone involved is what Rotary is all about, Team Effort!" In addition to Rotary, Tim is a Life Memer of Centurions which supports St. Mary's and Carondelet.
The meeting started off with PRESIDENT JONI ringing the bell to welcome everyone and introducing KEITH COBB for the invocation. Next, GORDON SHAW was up for the pledge and song (accompanied by the talented MR. GARY GETHMANN), Personally, I was glad he had time to practice as he performed both without a hitch and was lucky enough to earn a hug from President Joni.
Then CAM MOORE introduced our guests and visiting Rotarians. Hearty Birthday wishes were given to RON OXMAN, who has vowed to work on his unruly ways, BEN BURNSIDE who was a little down about not having a sign for his birthday, and CHRIS MOONEY who has given up his Saturdays to teach a class because Rotary is always the place to be on Wednesdays....
Then the meeting was taken over by Sgt. at Arms; MATT BLAIR.... Hey now.... he turned the mic over to VIC JACOBS who welcomed new member ALLYN BUZOMI to Rotary!! He fined members JOHN MCCALEB for winning three different awards -WOW- and DREW VACTOR who apparently remodeled the boot from the former Tack Room restaurant after the old lady who lived in it moved.
More announcements about the NORMA PEAL book drive next week for UPH and remember to clean out your closets and bring gently used items for Goodwill to this week's meeting. Wine.... need I say more?? JERRY HARRIS is hosting a Wine Fellowship Dinner on Saturday 5/26... come enjoy a "Smoky Southern Style BBQ and Seven Sensational Zinfandels.... You can register on the website, and do so soon as space is limited. DARRELL STEWART touted Home Hospitality and on 5/11 there will be a dinner to recruit new hosts.... A Blue Badge was presented to the lovely CARMEN BERMUDEZ!!! Congratulations!!!
On to the nitty gritty... "Ethical Challenges...." Introduced by KEN LIGHT who drew parallels between golf and ethics....What? Who knew people bent the rules in golf? Our Speaker Dr. Paul Melendez gave a wonderful presentation on the "Ethical Challenges for Organizations in the 21st Century." A fantastic speaker, Dr. Melendez had us all questioning the rights and wrongs of hiring practices and using Facebook as a factor in the hiring process. He left us all to ponder how big that "gray" area really is... Thank you for an enlightening program.
President Joni sent us all off with a lovely toast then bid us adieu,,,,
Dr.Curiel is the director of the Pigmented Lesion Clinic and Multidisciplinary Oncology Program, both part of the University of Arizona Cancer Center Skin Cancer Institute. Dr. Curiel graduated summa cum laude from Central University of Venezuela Medical School.
Recently I've had some requests to remind our members about the appropriate use of our club roster as well as what members are permitted to promote at our club meetings. Most of our members in our Rotary club are active in other charitable organizations in our community. As a result, there are hundreds of "favorite" charities represented by our members. To maintain fairness and to be considerate of members' time during our meetings, our Board several years ago put into writing the policy that we've had for years that states that requests to solicit funds or volunteers from our members for other charitable organizations should be denied unless our board has specifically approved the request or if it for a Rotary-sponsored activity or project.
In recent weeks, there have been a few announcements for other organizations that slipped by this policy and that is my fault. Just a reminder to all, "Happy Jackson Minutes" are not intended to promote other organizations. They are intended to share positive personal events, like the birth of a baby or grandbaby, a special anniversary, or perhaps the graduation of son or daughter. These have to be arranged with the President, Sergeant of Arms, or Executive Director (Mary Laughbaum) ahead of time and will cost the member cold hard cash of $20!
RCoT's policy is that there will be no solicitations from the floor or podium at meetings for donations, raffles, volunteers or ticket sales for any non-Rotary function. RCoT's Board of Directors approved the following organizations to be allow to be promoted as well as any official Rotary fundraising projects: Boy Scouts, Community Food Bank, Goodwill Industries, Salvation Army Belling Ringing, and Reading Seed. We do allow members to donate tickets to other organizations' events for members to bid on during auctions or purchase our raffle tickets for these items because the proceeds go directly to our club. The policy also further states that printed materials to promote any non-Rotary function or fundraiser cannot be placed on the tables where members have their lunches. Information regarding other charitable organization's functions/fundraisers may be placed on a side table near the entrance to the meeting for members to pick up.
As we head into a busy political campaign season, just a reminder that political campaigning in any form is not permitted withint 150 feet of any meeting of our Rotary Club of Tucson and printed materials should not be placed on member lunch tables. Political guests may be introduced along with all other visitors during Club meetings, but they may not campaign in any way nor are members allowed to use time to campaign, If the political guest leaves prior to or during the program, the President has discretion to fine the host, so pick your candidates carefully! Political literature may not be distributed before, during, or following a Rotary meeting.
Just a clarification of our policy on political speakers versus elected officials: if it is not an election year, the program committee may invited a sitting representative in any official position such as Congressperson, Senator, Governor, Mayor, etc. because the individual was elected to represent everyone. However, during an election year, we must invite the final candidates for a specific office either in back to back meetings or together as a "debate". If there is a ballot proposition, representatives of both sides of the issue will be invited to present.
Last but not least, our roster information is available to our members to assist in communicating with one another regarding Rotary business. The information in the roster should not be given out to non-members and should not be used for solicitation of business or for other charities unless it is specifically approved by RCoT's Board of Directors. I know that some of our newer members are not familiar with our Club policies regarding these topics and I hope that this article clarifies what is permitted and what is not.
Dr. Paul Melendez will discuss recent research and findings in organizational ethics in the business, government, and non-profit sectors. He will also share his ethical decision-making model
Pres. JONI CONDIT opened the meeting by asking the man who gets you in the end, Funeral Director MIKE ORCUTT, to give the invocation. He was followed by Signor ERNIE MINCHELLA who led the pledge & song accompanied by pianist PP GARY GETHMANN. After our Doubletree gourmet lunch, LESLIE GALLOWAY introduced the many guests. There were no visiting Rotarians. Then came the Birthday Boys and Girl starting with super hiker TOM ANDREWS who was followed by fellow hiker ANN LANCERO. Next was LARRY PETH who sadly informed us that he was leaving Tucson for Colorado that afternoon. LARRY has been a long time member and has done a lot for our club. We will miss you, Larry, and wish you well up there. The last birthday boy was JAY ZUCKER who hit the double 5. MATT BLAIR auctioned off 2 tickets to the Boys & Girls Club party. The high bidder at $200 was LESLIE GALLOWAY. Announcements were made by STU GOLDMAN, work day on April 28; JOE NEVIN, book and clothing drive May 2; VIC JACOBS, home needed for Rotary Exchange student; and KEITH COBB about tickets sold at SAHBA. RON OXMAM is selling raffle tickets to help the Children’s Advocacy Center for abused children. DAVID PASHKOW introduced the program, El Dia de los Muertos. It is a pretty dead subject but presenters Stevie Mack and Kathleen Williams gave a lively presentation that fleshed it out.
RCoT member JESSE THORPE is currently General Manager and Chief Executive of Skyline Country Club. He started as a waiter in 1982 to pay his college tuition and rent. He left in 1991 as Clubhouse Manager, moving to Milwaukee for 3-1/2 years and Las Vegas for almost 11 years before he was asked to return 6 years ago to replace another of our members, DICK KOLASA, who retired. Jesse is currently chairman of our scholarship cups.
Skyline Country Club was founded by Mr. Leonard Savage of Oklahoma City, a prominent businessman and frequent visitor to Arizona. In 1961 Mr. Savage and Mr. John Bender discussed the building of a golf course and the country club in Tucson. This discussion became a reality. The golf course opened for play in August 1962 and the main Clubhouse opened for business in June 1963.
They named the country club “Skyline” because it was located 1,000 feet above the city of Tucson at an altitude of 3,000 feet.
Today, Skyline is a member owned country club with dining rooms, banquet facilities, a full service Fitness Center, an Olympic sized swimming pool, six clay tennis courts and a par 71 golf course.
In 2006 Skyline was chosen as a “Platinum Club” by a panel of industry peers for the excellence of its facilities, services, products, staff and governance. Boasting an award winning culinary team and long time employees Skyline offers a gracious “family” atmosphere for its members’ enjoyment.
Calling the meeting to order PRESIDENT JONI CONDIT commanded attention from her devoted subjects.
Summoned to the podium to inspire us with words of inspiration was SUZANNE LAWDER.
Our pledge and song was led by SONNY SOLOT who was accompanied on the piano by PAST PRESIDENT GARY GETHMANN to the melodious verses of “My Country tis of Thee. “
The introduction of our guests and visitors was handled by MARGARET HIGGINS who had to fill in for the missing JESSE THORPE.
The Birthday Gang was all assembled and leading the way was KATHY KITAGAWA followed by LEE SCHULTZ and a last minute addition of RICHARD WHITE.
As our Sergeant at Arms, MATT BLAIR rounded up GARY HIRSCH and STU GOLDMAN, all waited in anticipation of their announcement of Rotary Work Day on April 28th at the Primavera Men’s Shelter. If the picture of STU in his work attire was any indication of how things will go we are all in for a BIG SURPRISE. Next up was VICKIE JACOBS with the presentation of some NEW BLUE BADGES for former RCOT member JO DeCHATELET and recent Star Graduate KEITH COBB. Maintaining control of the microphone just a little longer KEITH COBB started soliciting volunteers for this weekends SAHBA Home Show jump start ticket sales for 2012 CLASSICS CAR SHOW. The call to the audience was Car Show Captains start your selling!
Taking back control PRESIDENT JONI proceeded to recognize one of our own. She was proud to present this year’s HELEN MIDDLETON RED ROSE AWARD to GARY HIRSCH for his OUTSTANDING DEDICATION to THE ROTARY CLUB of TUCSON.
Before moving on to our program PRESIDENT JONI asked all to remember ARLA’S husband who is recovering from open heart surgery.
Starting our program way ahead of schedule, PRESIDENT JONI introduced our introducer DARRELL STEWART who presented our speaker Saad Allawi the Chairman of Performance Logic and his topic of “Re-engineering Iraq: A Businessman’s Approach.” Saad gave us some insight to the workings of the region and the difficulties faced by the citizens and government of Iraq.
Even after an extended presentation, PRESIDENT JONI ended the meeting early and closed with the ceremonial toast.
Stevie Mack is the founder and President of CRIZMAC Art & Cultural Education Materials Inc., a publishing company committed to the development and publication of art and cultural education resources. Educators across the country use
Please don't forget to sign up to help us join Rotarians across the world in a special Rotarians At Work day! Our Club's project will be to paint the Primavera Foundation's Men's Shelter. The Primavera Men's Emergency Shelter is a 100-bed facility created from a former warehouse at 200 E.Benson Highway. It provides a minimum 5-night shelter for emergencies, up to 90 days for those failthfully following Primavera's program of leading a clean life in the workplace. Please sign up as we need at least 30 volunteers to help us paint the interior of the shelter. If you'd rather help by writing a check to purchase paint and painting supplies, that would be most appreciated as well! Please let member Gary Hirsch, chairman of the Works Projects Committee know this week if you are interested in helping. (The project will start at 8 a.m. and run 4-5 hours). Thank you!
Last Wednesday member Jerry Harris convened a new committee of RCoT members to discuss how to reformat and produce the Tucsotarian going forward. Jerry solicited ideas from each attendee. Sid Hirsch, long time chair of our Mystery Editor committee, joined the group and shared how he has organized that committee to ensure that members who missed the previous week will know what happened. It is also an opportunity for the week's Mystery Editor to poke a bit of fun. The Tucsotarian is published through our club software, Clubrunner. While the President serves as the Editor of the publication and is responsible for determining what is published in each week's edition, our fabulous Executive Director, Mary Laughbaum, is the one who makes certain that key information and photos are added including the weekly menu, membership data, sponsor logs, photos, etc. She is the one who normally hits the send key so that you receive your weekly bulletin late Monday or early Tuesday.
The Tucsotarian Committee agreed that the essentials of our newsletter includes a brief synopsis of the upcoming speaker and topic, the Mystery Editor column, notices about new members, and any key information that needs to be conveyed that week. Other articles of interest including those about fellow Rotarians, our Tucsotarian sponsors, and relevant Car Show articles. All agreed that since the publication is now mostly read electronically, it is less critical that it is a precisely four pages in length each week. The group agreed that some topics could be written and saved for publication during appropriate times during the year such as articles about the club's Foundation and about Rotary International's programs. Members agreed to interview another Rotarian during the year and to write a short article about them. If you are interested in volunteering to participate in this committee to write an article or two during the year, please let Jerry Harris know!
In 2011 Jack Marek sponsored Jennifer Hoffman into our club. Jennifer is the Chief Operating Officer of Contact One Call Center, and enjoys the fact that it is truly a family business. Her mom, Judy Wood, purchased the then small answering service in 1981. Jennifer was in the second grade at the time and she recalls the switch boards on which the calls were answered. While she is one of our club's younger members, she can still point to the significant changes in technology since those early days when all messages were taken on paper and then manually delivered. Since then, technology has completed transformed her business. All of their interactions are handled through state of the art software creating a consistent platform for their Customer Service Representatives to process and deliver calls accurately and efficiently.
Contact One Call Center focuses on customer service using the company's core values (Integrity, Accountability, Customer Centricity, Teamwork, and Pride) as their cornerstone in training all staff. Jennifer's customers range from plumbers' offices, to large medical practices, to national firms for which they process up to 30,000 calls per month during peak times. She emphasized, for each call that Contact One answers, their staff focuses on keeping the caller's experience at the forefront, doing all that they can to help that caller and their client together.
Jennifer received her college education at Northern Arizona University, graduating with a degree in History and a minor in Spanish Culture. Although she and her husband, Sean, both attended NAU, she did not meet him until she returned to Tucson to work in the family business. She had only been back in Tucson for about a month when a couple of dogs came to the front door of her office building looking hungry and thirsty, so Jennifer gave them some water and called the number on one of the dog's tags. A while later, a "cute guy" came to pick them up, but Jennifer was walking out of the door to attend a meeting. The next day, she received a bouquet of flowers from the dogs and Sean's phone number. She called the number and the rest, as she says, is history. Jennifer and Sean have two boys, Owen who is 8 and in the second grade, and Noah, who is 6 and in kindergarten. Except for her chocolate lab, Maddie, Jennifer is the only girl in the family (and apparently Maddie's allegiance is to her husband, but Jennifer doesn't blame her since she says Sean is great fun to be around and has more patience throwing the ball!).
Jennifer has jumped in this past year and most of you have hopefully met her in the Greeter Line. If you haven't gotten to sit with her at lunch, make sure that you do!
The Car Show is YOUR fundraiser! We want you to take part in the excitement of earning funds to donate back to our community, and be proud when we hand over the checks to our recipients.
As you have seen, we have started our ticket sales for the raffle car earlier this year. The reason for this is to take advantage of community events scheduled this spring where we have the opportunity to sell a large number of tickets. This takes the pressure off our members and offers an assist toward achieving the goal of every member selling at least 50 tickets. (Members will find out their teams and receive their personal supply of tickets in June.)
If you work one of these public events (a 2-3 hour shift), you will get personal ticket sales credit. If you bring your spouse or family member to help, you also get credit for their ticket sales. Working a shift also serves as a makeup for a missed meeting as long as your shift is two weeks before or after the missed meeting.
See KEITH COBB if you want to sign up for the next sales event.
Please know that the proceeds we earn from ticket sales go straight to the bottom line therefore, we have set our ticket goal higher this year. The more we sell, the more we make! It is up to you to make a difference in the bottom line! WE CAN DO IT!!!
Marianne Freitas and Tom Strasburg, Co-Chairs
2012 Tucson Classics Car Show
Talented author and member, Jerry Harris, has kindly agreed to chair a Tucsotarian committee and will be hosting the first meeting right after our regular meeting this coming Wednesday. He will be assisting President Joni in taking a look at the format of the "Tucsotarian" going forward and the frequency of the publication. If you are interested in participating in the planning and organization of a "new" bulletin, please join us!
President JONI began our April 4th, 2012 meeting on time with another packed house on board.
KEITH COBB gave the invocation and GORDON SHAW sang, “America the Beautiful’, with all 160 members in attendance but not all in harmony. GARY GETHMANN performed on the piano.
April the 4th was also the Red Cross Blood donation day. We need to give more blood—its healthy for you and you get a free check-up to boot. There were three birthdays on this day as well. DICK DOBRIN, GORDON SHAW and JIM SUMWALT. There was Paul Harris presentations made to Jim's family members.
President Elect JIM LUBINSKI gave out the meeting survey results. He gave suggestions that will be implemented over the next few months. DAVE GALLAHER highlighted the Amphi Clothing Bank Work Project. MARIANNE FREITAS told us about MIKE ANDERSON's 47,000 mile red Corvette; he also gave the club a $5000 dollar donation to exceed our normal budget for the car and car show.
Finally, PAT ZUMBUSCH introduced our speaker, Jim Ewen, a car designer for General Motors---introduced under the title of, “Automobile Design through the Ages”. His delivery was humorous and insightful. He commented, that “cars can look like anything,” except for the Ford Edsel. Jim created the Firebird, GTO and Grand Prix.
The meeting ended with a toast from President Joni.
After helping my oldest daughter and her family move to Carlsbad, California this past weekend and returning home today after a tearful goodbye from three of my precious granddaughters, I realize how fortunate I've been to have such a close family and to have my Rotary family on top of that. Jim Sumwalt really did "sum it up" last week when his family attended to share his birthday and to give his daughter, Stacia, and son-in-law, John, the gift of Paul Harris Fellows. Jim talked about how special the day was to have his personal family and his Rotary family together in one room. Most of us joined Rotary because we realized that it is the best possible way to make a difference in the world, but then we also found out how much Rotary gives back to us in the form of friendships. While Rotary is not a substitute for one's own private family, Rotary is absolutely the best organization in the world because it is comprised of the very best people in the world.
Saad Allawi, Chairman of the Board of Performance Logic Inc, will present a discussion of how to re-engineer Iraq using fundamentals of large scale transformation and management principles.
Thank you all for your project suggestions. We made our choice based on overall project appeal and one that provided the opportunity for a large number of volunteers.
On Saturday, April 28 members of the Rotary Club of Tucson will come together to improve the condition of the Primavera Men’s Emergency Shelter. The Shelter is a 100-bed facility created from a former warehouse at 200 East Benson Highway that provides emergency shelter for up to 90 days for those faithfully following Primavera's program of leading a clean life and being in the workplace. Thanks to Stu Goldman for suggesting the project.
At a minimum we will be painting. Stu is working with Primavera to determine the exact scope of work. Plan to join us!
Gary Hirsch
Work Project Committee Chair
SAVE THE DATE: Rotary International Service Day is April 28
The second annual Tax Week promotion begins April 9th for one week. What a wonderful way to double the recognition points for contributions to the ANNUAL Fund.I look forward to working with your regional foundation rep and your club to take advantage of this opportunity provided by DG Michael Drake. The following article appears in the District newsletter and has all of the rules.
“You know how much your contributions to the Annual fund are worth on your tax return. Now you can double the pleasure by getting double points for giving during the “Tax Time Double Points” promotion.
It is that time of year again when our District 5500 doubles the value of your Annual Fund Contributions with matching Paul Harris Points. What an easy way to build up recognition points toward your Paul Harris awards. But this program only runs for ONE week from April 9 – April 16th, 2012.
Here is how to qualify for the matching points:
Make a contribution to the ANNUAL Fund during the Double Points Week of April 9-April 16th. The minimum contribution is $100. Sorry, Polio plus and other contributions are wonderful but will not count toward double points.
You can make a contribution in two ways:
1. Make a contribution by writing a check made out to The Rotary Foundation and sending it to the District Annual Giving chair for processing to the foundation. (see address below) or
2. Make an on-line contribution through Member Access at www.rotary.org to the Annual Fund- SHARE and send a copy of the receipt, showing the amount of the contribution and date, to the District Annual Giving Chair.
Note: Points earned from your initial donation can be transferred to another’s account. Matching points, however, cannot be transferred and are only good for your account.
Mail your contributions with your club number (RCoT = number 1284) and your Rotary ID number to:
Frank C Presson
D5500 Annual Giving Chair
7470 E Knollwood Dr
Tucson, AZ 85750-2200" fpress@comcast.net
Second Annual Tax Week Promo To Double Your Points!
Earlier this year, RCoT's current Foundation President, Jon Wang, and Kathy Kitagawa did a presentation to our club members explaining where the funds go for your membership dues, your various donations, and the differences in our own RCoT Foundation and Rotary International's Foundation. It can be very confusing to members, especially newer members to understand the various opportunities for donations.
We encourage members to write a check for local scholarships and local charities such as Reading Seed directly to the Rotary Club of Tucson Foundation since this is a 501c3 organization that can accept donations. Donations made to Rotary International to End Polio or to the Annual Fund, should be written to The Rotary Foundation (TRF) with a note at the bottom which specific fund you want it to go towards. Dues, raffles, and extra meals can be paid to The Rotary Club of Tucson and these funds are handled by our club operations (Mary Laughbaum) and our club Treasurer (Patrick Zumbusch, this year). Now, if that is clear as mud, you can keep reading!
Rotary International has an Annual Fund that provides funding back to our Rotary District for approved projects. For example, you can designate your Paul Harris Fellowship donations to go into the Annual Fund of The Rotary Foundation (TRF). This is not our club's Foundation. The Annual Fund of TRF is invested and half of the donations made to it come back to the district three years later to be available for Matching Simplified Grants. So, for example if our club members donated $30,000 this year to the Annual Fund, three years from now, $15,000 would come back to District 5500 for clubs in our district to apply for matching simplified grants to help do short-term humanitarian projects that benefit communities locally or internationally.
This year, we completed the Tanzania Solar Lighting Project with a Simplified Grant from District 5500. Member Larry Peth completed the application for the project after a visit to the Tanzania school. He and other members helped to match the funds awarded by the District (that came from the Annual Fund), and the solar lighting for the school was purchased. Likewise, we are completing a project for classroom furnishings for a school in Ghana using a District Simplified Grant.
Donations to End Polio or to your PHF designated to End Polio, do not go into the Annual Fund. These funds are a direct pass through to immediate help towards this critical and important initiative. We've had a strong push to complete the polio efforts in our club this past year and many of us were able to complete PHF for ourselves or others by gaining matching points to finish them by donating to End Polio especially during the El Tour. We did not meet the club or district goal of having our club members donate an average of $150 to the Annual Fund this year (calculated by April 1st). In the coming year, if you are interested in donating to the Annual Fund, either directly or through a PHF, just make sure that you indicate that this is where you are designating the money to go towards. Thanks for all of your contributions! You are making a difference!
Thanks to the Rotary Club of Tucson's Work Projects Committee, Coronado Paints and Valenzuela Drywall, Mark Cordova (owner), the great Honor Society students who showed up and helped. Even the School Prinicipal, John Lansa came by. We had a blast knowing we helped improve the condition of the building and also lifted the spirits of the volunteers who work there and hand out about 35,000 articles of clothing per year to those kids and their families who cannot afford clothes. Thanks to Pat Lennan, Ron Oxman and his grand daughter, Roger Harwell, Pat Zumbusch, Dan Guare and to Cindy Guare who will come later to do some decorative paint touches. A special thanks to President Elect Elect Dave Gallaher for organizing the project. "Service above Self!"
Did you know that our Club has 67 different committees? Perhaps President-Elect Jim will combine and/or reduce some of these, but nevertheless, no member should feel the lack of something of interest in our club! Sometimes new members aren't sure about how to get involved and wonder if they have to be invited to join a committee. If you'd like to join a particular committee, you can simply check on our Rotary Club of Tucson website to find out who chairs that committee and either call or email that person to ask if you can join. From the Admin page click on Committee Management. If you can't get on the site, ask one of your board members or Mary who the committee chair is. Don't forget, there is lots to do in preparation for our upcoming October 13, 2012 Car Show event. Please don't hesitate to ask co-chairs Marianne Freitas or Tom Strasburg how you can become involved!
Also, I know I've mentioned this often, but consider bringing a friend or someone that you've had a good experience with in your business world to a meeting. Remember how you were introduced to our Club and consider how meaningful Rotary might become to someone else! Members are the lifeblood of our Club. We've lost about 20 members, mostly to business stresses or conflicts, this year. And, while we've brought in some wonderful new members, we need to keep thinking of who else might really enjoy our club.
RCOT GAME FEATURES TUCSON’S MAYOR IN HIS
SINGING DEBUT!
With March Madness in high gear, the Rotary Club of Tucson team took the court for another performance. General Manager JONI CONDIT quieted the crowd so the activities could begin with PAT ZUMBUSCH, who canned three in a row during shoot-around with his mayoral witticisms delivered as part of the invocation.
Next to address the crowd was MAGGIE KOSINSKI, with a pre-game patriotic song and pledge, assisted by GARY GETHMANN, who spent just enough time in the key.
Participant introductions were boomed over the P.A. by announcer BOBBY LARSEN. During the warm-up show, two members of the emeritus team, LARRY ADAMSON and DON ROLLINGS, along with modern-era player ELLEN WHEELER, were given a shout-out for their birthdays.
JONI passed the mic to courtside announcer MATT BLAIR for a pre-game interview with P.E.E. DAVE GALLAHER. DAVE related that his CCIM designation really stands for “Cannot Claim Instincts of a Mechanic” as he left his Prius running for 5 hours while hiking Picacho Peak. DAVE issued a challenge to high-school classmate Mayor Rothschild to sing the CDO fight song, which His Honor proceeded to do, earning DAVE a commissioner’s fine of $100.
Former team captain JON WANG was praised by JONI for his diligence as a court-side vendor, selling RCOT shirts to earn a profit for the club. The crowd cheered for CRISSY PERHAM, who is leaving our team to move to the Washington DC league.
As the game began, coach GINGER LEAVITT drew up a drive play and urged the entire club to join in – blood donations are needed for the upcoming Red Cross collection. There was the familiar roar from her fan club in the rowdy section.
Rookie club member MARK BAHTI was inserted into the game by manager VIC JACOBS, and immediately hit a three-pointer with his gift to the Mayor of a framed, 1910 promotion of Tucson as a fabulous place to live.
6th man CHARLIE MEAKER achieved a personal best – in scoring cookies – due to the extra, unoccupied, tables set in the bleachers by the Doubletree in anticipation of a large crowd.
As the game reached its peak, TOM WARNE provided an assist via his introduction of the day’s star player, Mayor Jonathan Rothschild. The Mayor launched shot after shot from his repertoire of “180 Day Work Plan” plays as the audience watched attentively. With time running out, MJ put his signature move on a book for the Reading Seed Library, and the buzzer sounded. The crowd applauded and went home, drained.
Jim Ewen graduated from The Art Center College of Design in Los Angeles. He began his career at General Motors in 1957. He worked on show cars, then advanced to Research Studio where the "Firebirds" were designed.
KEN LIGHT gave us a short, meaningful invocation. MARSHALL DENNINGTON (Who?) led the pledge and song, accompanied by GARY GETHMANN on the piano. SCOTT VAUGHAN did a stellar job introducing visiting Rotarians and guests. We had several distinguished Tucsonans in attendance who have served as chairmen of the Tucson Airport Authority. Also attending was FAYE MORSE, Honorary Member. It is always a pleasure to see her. Birthdays were celebrated by TED FORSBERG, DOT “Rap Artist” KRET, SUSAN MOORE VAULT, and JON WANG. The raffle raised $287, and many tickets were sold by “newbies” aka the Red Badge Crew. Way to go new members! BOB “Rap Artist 2” LOGAN and CHARLOTTE HARRIS presented Paul Harris Fellow Awards to JONI CONDIT, Taylor Johnson (granddaughter of Joni Condit), DOT KRET, CHRISTINE HARVEY who in turn gave it to her granddaughter, Felicia Harvey. JOE PENNINGTON presented a $5,000 check to JONATHAN MARTIN for St. Gregory College Preparatory School for their generous use of their grounds for our 2011 Car Show.
Bonnie Allin, President & CEO of the Tucson Airport Authority (TAA),was introduced by KEN LIGHT. Ken let us know that Bonnie is celebrating her 10th year in this position. She provided us with a very informative presentation on the Tucson Airport and its positive impact on our economy. It was interesting to learn that our airport was America’s 1st commercial airport. Very important for us to know and share with our friends and business associates is the Inside Tucson Business report from November 2011 that Tucson averages $1 less for round trip flights on the 12 most heavily traveled routes common to the Tucson and Phoenix airports. When flying, think Tucson first please!
A CCIM (Certified Commercial Investment Member) is a recognized expert in the commercial and investment real estate industry. The CCIM lapel pin is earned after successfully completing a designation process that ensures CCIMs are proficient not only in theory, but also in practice. This elite corps of CCIMs includes brokers, leasing professionals, investment counselors, asset managers, appraisers, corporate real estate executives, property managers, developers, institutional investors, commercial lenders, attorneys, bankers, and other allied professionals.
For the fourth time, our own President-Elect-Elect Dave Gallaher was honored by the Southern Arizona Chapter of CCIM with their prestigious award in the Industrial category. Congratulations, Dave!!
We are excited to announce a new feature car for the infield (baseball diamond) at our 2012 Tucson Classics Car Show. Our own member MIKE ANDERSON (past president, creator of our biggest fundraiser “10 Bucks Wins a Dream Home”) will be showing his newly-restored, never before shown, 1941 Cadillac four door sedan!
What makes this car so special is the story that comes with it. Mike drove this car in the first cross-country “Great American Race” in 1983. In April of 1983, a month before the race, Mike was the club program with a presentation on the use of seat belts. At that time he told his fellow Rotarians about his intent to enter the race and that second place was not an option. After they returned from Indianapolis with a first place trophy and $100,000 richer, Mike and Susan had a big celebration party for 300 friends and all our Rotary club members.
A display with his story, newspaper articles and the trophy he received will accompany his car at our 2012 Tucson Classics Car Show. He might even be there to give you his autograph!!!
Most members will also remember Mike’s other amazing car story about his 1967 Chevrolet Corvette which he bought at age twenty one and had shipped to Germany when he was in the Army. He drove it in Germany for three years then sold it to another officer before he came home to the United States. Thirty-two years later he began a search by the VIN number and miraculously found the car up for sale in Virginia! He bought it and has been entering it in our car show for the past few years.
Thank you Mike for sharing your cars and their amazing stories with us, and for your continued support of our club and the Tucson Classics Car Show.
Looking for a way to get more involved in Rotary? The following Car Show Team Leaders each need a co-chair:
IRENE DECKER is in charge of the Vendor Booths. She needs someone who can put together the vendor packages, make sure they are delivered or mailed before the Car Show and be on site to greet and help the vendors find their booths on the Friday before the show.
GINGER LEAVITT is in charge of the Show Signs. She needs a co-chair to help before and on setup day.
If you choose to get involved, you will reap the benefits of great fellowship and accomplishments. Please see Ginger or Irene if you would like to help.
"The Shot Felt 'Round the World" will be screened on Sunday, April 22, 2012 at 2:30 p.m. at the Doubletree Hotel. The doors open at 1 p.m. This documentary was made in 2005 in honor of the 50th anniversary of the breakthrough Salk polio vaccine that changed the world. Check out the trailer for this inspirational film.
General admission tickets cost $50 per person, but for $75 you can attend the film plus the VIP reception immediately after the film is shown. At the VIP reception you will meet Dr. Peter Salk, son of Dr. Jonas Salk, as well as Past RI Director John Blount. Tickets are available by calling Jim Aslin at (520) 404-6203 or email him at sjaslin@comcast.net.
As you know, the Tucsotarian Bulletin is published digitally every Monday afternoon and about a dozen members still have their copy mailed. As your President, I am the editor this year of the Tucsotarian and sometimes find it challenging to find stories to write that are useful and interesting to our membership. I never realized that my four years on my high school newspaper would come in handy! Your Executive Director, Mary, is the person who makes sure that the Bulletin is sent out, writes introductions for speakers when members forget to do so, and publishes the information relating to membership, attendance, and menu. It would be very hard to do this without her help. The main purpose of our club bulletin is to let members know something about the upcoming speaker for the week, the menu that will be served, a brief review of the previous week's meeting (if they happened to miss it), and a few items that could be of interest to members like upcoming club activities or a clarification of some policy or procedure that members might be wondering about. Members also like to learn more about one another and so this year I've started the column about "How Well Do You Know Your Fellow Rotarians?".
Anticipating that not all future club presidents will be willing to commit to this particular duty, I am suggesting that we form a Tucsotarian Committee. This committee would hopefully operate much like the Mystery Editor group that Sid Hirsch chairs. Sid assigns a member on the committee one month during the year to be responsible for seeing that the previous week's highlights are covered in the Bulletin under the Mystery Editor column. Each committee member then asks three or four other members to cover one meeting and write the Mystery Editor column so that the duty is not a burdensome one. The Star committee assigns new members to take a turn as Mystery Editor as a task on their list to complete prior to getting their permanent badge.
If you are interested in serving as the Committee Chair for this new Tucsotarian Committee, please let me or our Club Director of PR, Alan Schrope, know! If you are interested in serving on this committee, also please let Alan or me know this as well.
This past week your Board of Directors met for its monthly board meeting. The Board recently commissioned Mari DeVries of DeVries Accounting to do a review of our internal financial controls, looking at our procedures and practices of handling money. Mari DeVries reviews many non-profit organizations and shared her assessment with the Board at the meeting. She rated our club's internal controls as above average and cited nothing significant of concern in her report. She made some recommendations which the Board has agreed to adopt. We hope that this review will provide our members with assurance and confidence that your Board and staff are leading and operating the club with integrity and responsibility.
On another note, we have no new members in the hopper. We've gained some excellent new members this year but have also lost some long time members due to work commitments. We have several others out on Leave of Absence due to work conflicts with our meeting times. We hope to get them back as soon as possible! If you know of friends, family, or colleagues that you think would make good Rotarians, please take the time to complete an application for them and offer to serve as their sponsor. Remember that someone took the time to do that for you to open the door to Rotary and all that it has to offer.
Monte Clausen was sponsored into the Rotary Club of Tucson June 4, 2003 by George Hawke with a classification of Legal, Federal Law. Monte has worked in the U.S. Attorney's office since 1988 and has no plans to retire anytime soon. The US Attorneys are the chief federal law enforcement officers in their districts and are responsible for federal prosecutions and civil cases involving the US Government. There are 94 US Attorney offices across the country that prosecute a range of federal crimes ranging from mortgage fraud, cyber crimes, environmental crimes, to health care fraud and sexual exploitation crimes against children, to name just a few.
Monte grew up the son of a football coach who later became the U of A's Athletic Director from 1958-1972. Momte attended the U of A, playing basketball from 1961-1963, and was class President in 1963. He then served two years active duty in the Army after which he attended law school at the U of A. Monte worked in private practice from 1969-1988.
In addition to his service to Rotary, Monte has volunteered as a mentor for the "Courts Are Us" program for a number of years. This program, under the leadership of Judge Norman Fenton, started as a partnership between Tucson's court system and Tucson Youth Development, a non-profit serving at-risk teens. As a mentor for this program, Monte takes high school students participating in 7-week summer programs on tours jof our court buildings. Monte loves being around children and believes that this is great way to expose kids to our court system and they are most interested in seeing the detention facilities!
Monte has been married to Joanie Clausen since 1991 and between them they have eight children and fourteen grandchildren! Five of their children played collegiate sports. Monte says, "All of our eight children have turned out better than we could have imagined, and we feel very blessed.". He served as the President of the U of A Lettermen's club for 27 years. Monte is a quiet and humble leader who makes a significant difference to our community and our country. We are indeed lucky to have him as a member of our Rotary club!
Mayor Jonathan Rothschild is a native Tucsonan. His grandmother came to Tucson in 1942 and opened Valley Fair, a used furniture store on South 6th Avenue. His father attended Tucson High School and the University of Arizona.
On Saturday, March 24th, the second RCoT Hike of 2012, and the second "training" hike (in preparation for the Grand Canyon hike about a year from now) will be to summit the landmark of sourther Arizona. We will be hiking the site of the westernmost battle of the Civil War and the best indicator that you have finally left Tucson on your way north on I-10, aka Picacho Peak! The hike will not be too long, only two miles each way, and not too steep, only 1,780 ft. in elevation, but definitely a strenuous hike, depending on how fast you go.
Also there are several sections where we have to pull ourselves up or down for a short distance on steel cables, so good gloves are a must. In the end, it will be worth it, since on a good day, you can see all the way to Phoenix in the north, and to Tucson in the south. from the top. We will go up and come down the same trail, i.e. Hunter Trail, so anyone who hits their psychological/physical "wall" can turn back at any time. We will meet in the Walgreens on the southwest corner of West Prince and North Flowing Wells, just off I-10 at 8 AM. We will carpool to Picacho. There is a $7.00 per vehicle part entrance fee, so bring your Golden Age Passports! The climb up should take 2 hours, and about the same down, so we should be on our way home by 2 PM. As usual, bring appropriate hiking gear, and gloves, as well as adequate water and snacks. For questions, call Hikemeister, Tom Andrews, at 751-3774 (residence) or 490-5892 (cell) or email: TRAndrews@aol.com
Our regular raffles provide a lot of fun at our meetings and our members who win the raffles are the beneficiaries of some great items. While we've had some great donations this year, we are nevertheless, far behind this year on what we had hoped to have donated. If you have any special items or services that you'd like to donate to our monthly raffle, please let your Sergeant at Arms, Matt Blair, or Executive Director, Mary Laughbaum know. We'd very much appreciate those fun and special items you might have to offer that our members will want to win! All of the proceeds from the raffles go to help the Rotary Club of Tucson! Thanks for your raffle items!
Spring is here (albeit a very cold and wintery start)! Along with the change of seasons, we are gearing up for the ticket sales of this year's Car Show Extraordinaire! We are still in the process of finalizing the numbers of last year's Car Show proceeds. Treasurer Pat Zumbusch has done a great job of trying to herd cats in getting last bits of invoices and costs related to our 2011 show completed. Over the next month he hopes to be able to let us know the final numbers. As most of you know, Reading Seed will receive half of the proceeds from the Show, addressing our club's desire to help the children in our community.
Another 25% will be donated to the selected recipients of two new focus areas, seniors and job retraining with special interest in retraining veterans. You will hear more about that in early June and will see presentations from the two finalists in each category on June 13th. The members will each be able to vote on their choice to receive funding for their favorite in each of the two new categories. We are asking the recipients of our funding to help with the 2012 Car Show. The purpose of our Car Show event is to raise money to give to local charities who are helping people in our own community. We want our members to feel good about asking people to buy tickets to support the Car Show. Community Grants Committee feels that naming the recipients in advance allows members to emphasize to purchasers of tickets how this will make a difference in their community.
Your Community Grants Committee has worked hard this year to help to reorganize the timing of distribution of proceeds from the annual Car Show. Your Board has approved the Committee's recommendation that this year, one time only, we will use 25% of last year's proceeds to help provide us with working capital to advertise, print car show tickets, etc. We always have these expenses in the past, but as we've grown the Car Show, it is harder to fund out of the operational dollars prior to the Car Show. We have the best Car Show in the southwest and it is because of the hard work of all members and the excellent leaders for this event that we've had from year to year. So Get Ready Team, Start Your Engines!
We returned to the Sunset Ballroom. JACK PARRIS gave the invocation. DAN GUARE lead the pledge of allegiance and singing of "God Bless America," accompanied by GARY GETHMANN. DENNIS DRISCOLL introduced guests and visiting Rotarians. Among the visitors, two who did not want to be introduced.
Past District Governor Jim Aslin and Tucson Sunrise President Elect Richard Suskind later made pitches for upcoming Rotary events. "The Shot Felt Round the World" (Dr. Jonas Salk's Polio Vaccine) will be presented at the Doubletree on April 22nd. Cost is $50 to see the film or $75 for film and reception. "Caribbean Nights Dinner and Auction" will benefit Children's Education, Health and Welfare Charities. The $75 per person event will be held at Skyline Country Club. Silent auction donations are appreciated.
Birthdays were celebrated by TIM BROWN and PAULINE HECHLER.BOB WEBB requested more members sign up for the Wine Fellowship March 20th at Verona Restaurant, 120 S. Houghton Road. Don't forget the Blood Drive April 4th, the "Cookie Monster" reminded us. SID HIRSH pitched the "Race for the Cure" March 25th, a nice walk, fellowship and post race party at his home.
TOM ANDREWS filled 24 of the 20 spots secured for the Grand Canyon Hike March 2013. He is attempting to secure 20 more spots in April of 2013. In the meantime join him for the reverse canyon hike at Picacho Peak March 24th. CHARLOTTE HARRIS announced a Dinner Celebration May 3rd, and Golf Tournament and Lunch May 4th to raise funds for the "Mike Harris Scholarship Endowment."
President Elect JIM LUBINSKI introduced Lendre Kearns, GM of Broadway in Tucson, who presented a very interesting program on Broadway shows in Tucson.
President JONI adjourned the meeting after another of her outstanding toasts.
Bonnie A. Allin became President & CEO of the Tucson Airport Authority (TAA) on April 1, 2002. She began her career in aviation in 1976 with TAA, and after holding a variety of positions, moved to Texas where she
While many of our club members are disappointed that our Wildcats didn't make it into the NCAA tournament this year, we do have some good news to share. Our extended efforts to bring the Nogales wheelchair project to fruition has finally been realized! The Nogales Sur club has identified a long list of 80 some possible recipients who very much need a durable wheelchair. We've transferred 50% of the remaining funds to our Nogales Wells Fargo account so that the Nogales Sur Club can place the order for the wheelchairs.
While we've had some challenges in reaching this point, we've learned some things about doing international projects along the way. As President-Elect, Jim Lubinski, has stated, international projects seem to work best when the partner approaches us for help. A great example of this is with the recent Amman-Petra water project. We have a well-established partnership with the Jordan club who reached out to us for help in creating rain catchment systems. It is important to have champions on both sides of a project. With the Nogales Wheelchair project, we have been fortunate to have members from both our club and the Nogales Sur club who were determined to see the project through. Included in those leaders are Bob Logan, Club Director of International, Jim Lubinski, President-Elect, former member and Red Rose recipient Jeffrey Abbott. Omar Montiel, President of the Nogales Sur Club, has been instrumental in helping us to identify the ultimate manufacturer and the recipients.
The wheelchair components are being ordered through the Fundacion Bertha O. De Osete. The company will manufacture the components and will assemble the chairs. We hope to participate in the distribution of the finished wheelchairs along with the members of the Nogales Sur Club. Bob and Jim are both very happy that the wheelchairs in their garage and office can be donated soon to deserving individuals!
Schuy (Schulyer) Lininger became a member of the Rotary Club of Tucson on May 1, 1947. He was our club President in 1975-76 and has served as a mentor to many of us since then. Schuy is well known in the hotel business and was the owner of the Lodge On The Desert on Alvernon for fifty years from 1947 to 1997. The Lodge was a Lininger family business. The Lodge on the Desert's original building was designed and built as a personal residence for Mr. and Mrs. Quinsler from Massachusetts in 1931. Schuy's parents, Homer and Cornelia Lininger, were winter residents of Tucson and spent their summers in the more temperate climate of Evanston, Illinois. In 1936 they purchased the private adobe brick home on two acres at 306 N. Alvernon Way from the Quinslers and opened the Lodge for the winters only with just seven guest rooms. The next year, the Lininger's added another guest room, the original pool, and the pool changing rooms.
During World War II, the Liningers temporarily converted the Lodge to housing for B-24 squadron officers who were training at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base. At that time, the Lodge had no dining room and very little refrigeration or air conditioning because water cooling had not yet been perfected. The streets directly around the Lodge were not paved and the paving was no further east than Country Club. The Lodge originally was heated by a coal furnace but was later converted to oil. When gas lines were extended from Broadway to the Lodge property, the hotel was able to be heated by natural gas. Along the way, the myth began that Room #16, and occasionally the dining room, is inhabited by the ghost of Jack Frye, a six month resident in 1959. Fortunately, the story has only added to the charm and mystic of the place.
Schuy eventually took over the operations of the Lodge from his parents.He continuously developed the property enlarging the number of guest rooms to 35 and adding kitchen and dining facilities. The property was expanded to five acres and In 1997 Schuy sold the Lodge to Lodge Partners, LLC who then remodeled it in 2009. The Lodge on the Desert is one of those rare gems of Tucson that, like the Arizona Inn, reflects its southwest heritage. The Lodge is charming, authentic, and thanks to Schuy, is important to Tucson's history. Schuy is Lifetime Director on the Board of Directors of SALARA (Southern Arizona Lodging & Resort Association). Since 2010, he has served as the principal and Patron Grande of Raven Management Group Inc., a private company that consults and provides a wide range of management services.
It’s easy to be entranced by the fantastic production values of a Broadway show – the scenery, costumes, lighting and a host of technical effects – but have you ever wondered how
The Rotary Club of Tucson met at the Bonzai Boojum room at the Doubletree Hotel, so there was no head table. JIM RONSTADT gave the invocation. ERNIE MINCHELLA lead the pledge prefaced by the history of how “America” got its name and we all sang “America the Beautiful”. GARY GETHMANN played the piano.
KEVIN WONG introduced the many guests we had, which filled the room to capacity, this lovely windy March day! Happy Birthday greetings were given to MAGGIE KOSINSKI, CAROLE LITTLE, DREW VACTOR and ELLIE PATTERSON. All spoke of what Rotary meant to them and thanked their sponsors!
It was a delight to hear Elizabeth Campbell report on the Reading Seed. She thanked Rotary for their support with earnings from the Car Show. The next reading mentor class is March 29; all Rotarians are welcome to volunteer. Reading Seed has 1000 volunteers mentoring children with “one on one support,” raising the child's reading level and their confidence with the personal attention they receive.
Announcements: 1) BRUCE TUNZE and BOB WEBB have organized the next Wine Fellowship at Verona on March 20th. 6 pm, 120 S. Houghton Road. Cost is $50 per person with an array of wines to complement a colossal buffet featuring lovely Italian entrees. Sign up on our website, spots are limited! 2) SID HIRSH and the director of the Race for the Cure spoke of the upcoming event on March 25th and encouraged members to sign up for the race. The non profit has seen declines with the recent bad press about Susan G. Komen Co. 3) VIC JACOBS introduced new members and gave them all packets: JILL MADDEN, LINDSAY GANIN, and STACIA DECKER. MARK IVRIN was welcomed back to the club! 4) TOM ANDREWS spoke of the approval by the Forest Service to allow 20 hikers to go to the Grand Canyon next March. There are only 20 spots - everyone who wants to go should send $100 deposit to Tom so that he can make the deposit to the Grand Canyon.
The final act in today’s Rotary Club of Tucson meeting was absolutely heartwarming and amazing as we heard about the GSE, or Group Study Exchange, from HUGH THOMPSON, Phoebe Mills-Cager and Andrea Gardner. The trip recently returned from a good will exchange with seven countries in the Middle East. We were all amazed to hear of all three participants experiences and what they each got out of their visits, and what their goals were in going on this trip. It was applauded as a wonderful experience with the Rotary goals of global interaction helping to promote world peace.
At 1:20, our wonderful President JONI CONDIT, made closing remarks and gave a toast to the GSE team, a flag was exchanged with Visiting Rotarian Ameer Al-Tamimi from the Rotary Club of Ramallah.
As Spring approaches, our club members are gearing up for lots of Rotarian activities. So if you have time, consider getting involved in one or more of them. Hopefully, you were able to attend one of the many Home Hospitality events at a member's home or restaurant this past month. Our RCoT committees are busy. Some highlights of these committees include the following:
The Community Charity Grants Committee has been meeting to recommend the area(s) to solicit grants for the 2011 Car Show proceeds. Their recommendations were reviewed and voted on by the Board of Directors.
Contract Committee is reviewing our DoubleTree contract options, planning menu reviews and quarterly tasting with the new chef.
The Senior Leadership Team for the 2012 Car Show is already busy meeting and making plans.
Our Program Committee has been meeting regularly to propose interesting and provocative speakers for upcoming meetings.
Your Wine Fellowship Committee is busy planning an upcoming wine event.
The Works Projects Committee has a painting project scheduled for March 31 (see details in this Tucsotarian).
A Spring Norma Peale Library Book Drive and Goodwill Clothes Closet Cleaning is being planned by Anne Segal and Joe Nevin.
RCoT will have one or more teams for the 2012 Race for the Cure on Sunday March 25, organized by Sid Hirsch.
Our Hiking group is busy planning a Grand Canyon hike for March 2013 so be sure to sign up with Tom Andrews (and join the preparatory hikes!)
This was one of those meetings that make you feel lucky to be in “the big club,” with the likes of downtown mover and shaker Fletcher McCusker on the program!
But first was a welcome by our charming President JONI CONDIT, who asked PAT ZUMBUSCH to give the invocation. It was preceded by a plethora of appropriate aphorisms, as only Pat can quote them. Handsome GORDON SHAW then led us in singing “The Star Spangled Banner” (Don’t you love the word “spangled”?), accompanied by multi-talented CPA, GARY GETHMANN on the piano.
Always dapper KEVIN WONG introduced our guests and visiting Rotarians, and then Birthday Boys DON CLARK and KEN LIGHT, as tradition dictates, thanked their sponsors and mentors and handed over birthday checks for their favorite Rotary causes.
Next up was Man About Town STU GOLDMAN, who introduced new member YVONNE ERVIN. Yvonne is the Director of Development for the UA’s Confluencenter for Creative Inquiry, which “convenes intellectual and artistic talents from humanities, social sciences and the arts to identify, address, and work toward solutions to the grand challenges facing humanity” – quite the lofty and worthwhile goal, and a past executive director of the Tucson Jazz Society. This writer has a feeling Yvonne would make an awesome Program Chair!
PRESIDENT JONI then introduced Jean Maldonado, George Mairs, Mary Hillmon and Dr. Clarence Conner, who reported on the Club’s Pima Council on Aging grant to the Neighbors Helping Neighbors program.
Stalwart Home Hospitality Chair DARRELL STEWART and wine connoisseur BRUCE TUNZE announced upcoming events each has put together, the latter being a wine tasting on March 20.
PRESIDENT JONI then drew special attention to new (and much respected) member SALLY MONTAGNE, who has been selected Governor Designate for District 5500. The group gave Sally a huge ovation, and was obviously very proud and honored that she has chosen to be part of the Rotary Club of Tucson.
Real estate investor TOM WARNE introduced our guest speaker, Fletcher McCusker, who gave a very interesting and encouraging program on recent developments in downtown Tucson. Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus, and his name is Fletcher!
PRESIDENT JONI led us in a toast, and we adjourned at 1:20 p.m.
Our member Sally Montagne was recently announced as the selection for the Governor Nominee for the Rotary year 2014-15. Sally is a criminal defense attorney who practiced law in Washington DC for many years and is a graduate of Vassar College and Georgetown Law School. She has been an Assistant Governor, a Club President, a graduate of the Arizona Tri-District Leadership Academy, and has been a facilitator of the Rotary Leadership Institute, PETs and District Assemblies. Sally just this past year transferred to RCoT from her Sierra Vista Sunrise Club when she and her husband, Past District Governor, Ernie relocated their primary home to Tucson.
Sally has been very active in recent years in facilitating international service projects and is the District Foundation Grants Committee Chair. Sally and Ernie have traveled extensively on behalf of Rotary and have helped to develop a number of large matching grants for West Africa that include projects for water and other humanitarian aide in over 50 communities in Niger and Togo. Sally received the Service Above Self Award in 2009, is a Major Donor, a Bequest Society member, multiple Paul Harris Fellow, and a Paul Harris Society member. It has been a very long time since we've had a District 5500 Governor from our Club and we are most proud that Sally has chosen to become a part of the Rotary Club of Tucson. Congratulations Sally! We are so proud of you!
Sally Montagne Selected As Governor Nominee 2014-15
Your Board of Directors meets monthly to review financials, vote on membership changes, make or revise policy, and to vote on other key club issues for which the Board is responsible. This past month the Board met for its monthly meeting on February 21st. A key agenda item this month included a review of and vote on the recommendations of the Community Charity Grants Committee. Co-Chairs of that committee, Cindy Godwin and Mike DeVries, were invited guests of the Board meeting so that they could provide first hand explanation of the Community Charity Grants Committee's recommendations.
TheCommunity Charity Grants Committee is responsible for evaluating and recommending where the undesignated proceeds from the annual Car Show should be donated. The Committee reviewed RCoT's long range Strategic Plan focusing on key areas relating to serving children, seniors, and other areas that may be appropriate to serve community needs. The recent recommendation of the Community Charities Grants Committee was to continue our last year's focus but to add a new area that will address the extreme jobs/workforce issues, in particular the military personnel who are returning from Iraq and Afghanistan who are not prepared for available jobs. The Board had considerable discussion about community needs as well as our ability to consider grant proposals in multiple areas. The Board voted to continue to support children and youth needs through our club's support of Reading Seed, which is now a part of Literacy Connects but to focus the grants proposal process for this year into one single new area.
To this end, the Board voted to have the Community Charity Grants Committee solicit grants from four or five selected organizations that currently provide Work Force Development for Veterans. The Community Charities Committee will review those grant proposals and select 2-3 finalists who will then present to our full RCoT membership. The members will then vote on the finalist to receive the funding alloted from the 2011 Car Show proceeds. The Grants Committee plan to get started on organizing and putting out the request for proposals soon.
Our Club uses a software for club administration, tracking policies and procedures, for communicating with members, and for publishing our Tucsotarian newsletter. RCoT was one of the early adopters of the software through the leadership of Past President Scott Vaughan. Additionally, because RCoT is one of the early large clubs to incorporate ClubRunner, our Executive Director, Mary Laughbaum, has become a pioneer in new uses of the software and has a close working relationship with the ClubRunner team to resolve problems. This software also allows board members and committee chairs to research information and to access reports and summaries more readily online without calling Mary or visiting our Rotary office.
ClubRunner is a leading provider of online Rotary software and has just announced that it is an official Rotary International Licensee. It has been working closely with Rotary International to improve productivity and communications for Rotary club and Districts globally over the past two years and this association further cements the partnership between the two entities. Benefits of being an official licensee include more flexibility in incorporating Rotary branding into the software, to further promote the organization and its clubs' public relations.
The age of technology is clearly here to stay and more than 95% of our members appear to access the Tucsotarian online. We will continue to produce hard copies to mail out to those members who desire it and will have one on the tables for those who may have not had the opportunity to read it prior to a meeting.
Ted Forsberg is the "Rainmaker" and Senior Relationship Manager for Fastpark Tucson Airport Offsite Parking "business class" facility which has a current membersip of well over 15,000 Tucson travelers registered. Over the past 4 years Ted has developed business relationships with Raytheon Corporation, the University of Arizona, Ventana Medical, and numerous Tucson companies. With a 35 year career as a senior sales executive and vice president of business development, Ted worked for a variety of companies including AT&T, Siemens, Sony, and Bekins Van Lines. In his spare time Ted and his wife travel extensively with their 5th wheel travel trailer so he doesn't have to fly every week around the country anymore! Ted is originally from Iowa and joined our club in 2011.
The Rotary Foundation’s Group Study Exchange (GSE) program is a unique cultural and vocational exchange opportunity for businesspeople and professionals between the ages of 25 and 40 who are in the early stages of their careers.
It's been awhile since the Car Show and our "helping genes" need some exercise!On March 31st, Dave Gallagher, our President-Elect-Elect, will be working on a project with the Amphi Schools Clothing Bank and is requesting Rotarian volunteers to help.
The Amphi Schools Clothing Bank is supported by the Amphi Foundation and is located just immediately south of the high school on Stone (between Yavapai and Ft. Lowell Rd.) Dave has some history with the clothing bank and has shared that they serve a great need in the community providing clothing for students. The Amphi District provides a rent-free building but provides very little if any monies for repair or upgrading.
The building that houses the Amphi Schools Clothing Bank is badly in need of painting. According to Dave, it looks more like a prison than anything else. Dave rounded up donations of paint and some painting supplies but is looking for Rotarians and their family members to wield brushes and rollers. Unskilled labor - - that sounds like right up our alley!
Once the painting is done, Dave hopes he has a local artist lined up to paint a mural on one side of the building to make it look like a much happier place. We are looking for 6-10 Rotarians to work, likely the full day. It's spring and the weather should be delightful. Please let Gary Hirsch, Works Projects Chair, know if you can help us for the day (or most of it) on March 31st. Thanks!
PRESIDENT JONI CONDIT opened the meeting with a special gavel which is more than 100 years old. KEITH COBB gave a very inspiration invocation. SONNY SOLOT and GARY GETHMANN led us in “America.”
After lunch, CAM MOORE introduced our guests. RICHARD BRATT was recognized for his 60th birthday (not quite as old as President Joni’s gavel…).
MATT BLAIR singled out SUSAN MOORE VAULT for having an article in Inside Tucson Business magazine. CRISSY PERHAM gave a “Happy Jackson” recognizing her son for receiving an appointment to the Air Force Academy. Congratulations!
Matt auctioned a 1999-2000 U of A signed basketball, with a very unique auction technique. The basketball was auctioned off for $275! Apparently, Matt’s special technique worked! The money might have also been for KEVIN WONG’s modeling efforts – I’m not really sure…
DARREL STEWART noted that we have a record sign up for home hospitality. JIM LUBINSKI assigned some homework to everyone. He asked that we complete the program survey when it arrives in our email box.
CLIFF BOWMAN introduced our speaker, Lt. Gen. Robin Rand, Commander 12th Air Force / Air Forces Southern. Lt. Gen. Rand gave a very moving and inspiration talk about the wonderful things the Air Force personnel do to protect us.
As we join a table each time we come to a RCoT Meeting, we have about fifteen to twenty minutes of uninterrupted time to chat with fellow Rotarians and guests at our table while we break bread over lunch. Hopefully, each of you has the opportunity to sit with different members so that you get to know the rich and diverse group of people who call themselves Rotary Club of Tucson Rotarians. Next week, starting with February 26th through March 4th, various RCoT Rotarians will be hosting small groups of club members and their significant others at their homes during Home Hospitality. We try to do this twice a year so that members have the opportunity to relax and socialize with their fellow members without the structure of the club meeting nor the attention required for a program speaker.
I've been trying to interview different members this year through our Tucsotarian in hopes that our members will get to know one another a bit better than they might in the short time allotted for fellowship. Did you know, for instance that:
Our member Ellen Wheeler, is a graduate of the University of Arizona James E. Roger Law school, and is the Executive Director of the Morris K. and Stewart Udall Foundation. This Foundation was established by Congress in 1992 to honor Morris K. Udall's 30 years of services in Congress and was later enhanced to include Stewart L. Udall's public service. This Foundation is dedicated to educating a new generation of Americans with the intent to preserve and protect their national heritage through scholarships, fellowships, and internships that are focused on the environment and Native American issues. The Udall Foundation is also committed to promoting the principles and practices of environmental conflict resolution. Ellen joined our club in 2006.
Dennis Driscoll is a physical therapist who owns and operates multiple locations of Tucson Physical Therapy, offering a wide range of physical therapy services to individuals who may have been injured on the job at work, who may be recovering from a hip or knee replacement, or who may need therapy to recover from some type of debilitating illness. Dennis joined our club in 1990.
Ben Burnside is an attorney who specializes in elder law and trusts and estates, helping individuals and/or their families address a range of complex legal issues that can occur as individuals age. Ben joined our club in 2004.
Hal and Larry Adamson are brothers and each served as President of our club. Hal was President in 1961-62 and Larry served as President in 1985-86. Hal joined our club in 1955 and Larry joined in 1971 and both continue to be active members today.
Instead of our usual large gavel clanging on our Rotary bell to open our meeting last Wednesday, we had a very special "Centennial" gavel that President Joni was able to use to clang the bell to start our meeting. The gavel belonged to RCoT member Tim Ellinwood's great-grandfather, E.E. Ellinwood, who helped to write Arizona's state constitution. E.E. Ellinwood later ran for Governor of Arizona, losing to our first Governor of Arizona, George W. P. Hunt. The efforts to make Arizona a state took quite a bit of time as evidenced by the date inscribed on the side of the gavel: September 6, 1906. As we all know, Arizona became a state on February 14, 1912, one hundred years ago. The rest of the inscription on the gavel reads, "Presented to E. E. Ellinwood, M.J. Cunningham, W.B. Kelley, Committee, Republican and Democratic Territorial Convenetions, Bisbee, Arizona, September 6, 1906. It was quite an honor to be able to hold a real piece of Arizona's hundred year history to call our meeting to order!
Gavel With Centennial History Opens Our Rotary Meeting
I hope that each of you has taken the opportunity to complete the satisfaction survey sent out by email this week by President-Elect Jim Lubinski and a committee who are striving to improve our weekly meetings. This survey will also be available at the meeting in hard copy format if you'd prefer that. We request that you only complete one submission of this survey. Gary Hirsch sent out an earlier email listing all of the programs and speakers that we've hosted since July 2010 to help you rate your favorite and least favorite programs. We'd appreciate your prompt response so that this committee can collate the results and report back to our club members with the results.
One of the special perks about being president of the Rotary Club of Tucson, which is an immense honor all by itself, is that I have the privilege of sharing a brief lunch with each of this year's speakers. This year's speakers have been collectively outstanding due to the hard work of your Program Committee. This year's Program Committee is being led by co-chairs, Ken Light and Jim Lubinski, and is comprised of a dozen or so members who each bring suggested speakers and programs to the Program Committee to consider. One of the requirements of the committee is that someone should have heard the speaker present previously. The committee endeavors to provide timely and varied topics that will be relevant to the majority of members. You do not need to be on the committee to propose a speaker and program topic. You can pass it along to Ken or Jim, to Mary Laughbaum, to me, or any of the members on the committee.
Fletcher McCusker is the CEO of The Providence Service Corporation, an international NASDAQ public company he founded in 1996, now headquarted at the corner of Broadway and Scott. He is also the Chairman of Second Saturday, an organization that has brought tens of thousands of people downtown for a monthly urban street festival and Chairman of the Fox Theatre Foundation.
He is a tireless champion of the revitalization of downtown, and the unofficial pied piper often convincing others to locate or celebrate downtown.
Lieutenant General Robin Rand will present the Twelfth Air Force (Air Forces Southern) command brief covering the two distinct mission sets of this unique organization. As a Numbered Air Force Commander, he ensures
MARCIA KRUMWIEDE led us in invocation. ERNIE MINCHELLA and GARY HIRSCH led us in God Bless America. MATT BLAIR introduced our guests. After a special guest introduction by LARRY PETH, Matt fined him for not RSVP’ing the guest prior to lunch. Birthday greetings this week to ROBERT O’BRIEN and TIM PUNTENNEY.
Matt Blair was back up again to lead announcements. LISA FOGLE promoted home hospitality. JIM RONSTADT thanked several folks for helping with the International Water project. Jim also thanked everyone for their thoughts, prayers and cards for his grandson, Larry. STEVE CHRISTY told us about his new job with Fairway Mortgage. Matt Blair and TED KIRACOFE handed out raffle prizes noting that $313 was raised today!
DON SHROPSHIRE introduced our program – Judy Rich, President and CEO, Tucson Medical Center. Judy gave a fantastic presentation on things going on at TMC and in the medical field.
PRESIDENT JONI toasted the century mark of our great state.
This coming week we still need four volunteers to read to classes at Lineweaver Elementary School, just a few blocks east of the Doubletree Hotel. Volunteers will help students celebrate Love of Reading Week by reading either a favorite book the volunteer brings or the school will pre-select a book for the volunteer to read. Volunteers are needed on Thursday, February 16th, at 9:00 a.m. for about an hour. If you are available, please email or call member Judy Keagy as soon as possible!
This is an important week for Arizona whose citizens are marking its 100th birthday on Valentines Day. The event was originally scheduled for Lincoln's Birthday on February 12th, 1912 but President Taft was not available to approve the proposed Arizona constitution. Because of superstitious concerns about the 13th, on February 14th Arizona became the 48th state admitted to the Union, the last of the states in the Continental US to be a star on the American flag.
Not everyone apparently thought Arizona should become a state. Many did not feel that Arizona had enough going to make it an economic success. President Taft originally vetoed the constitution because he objected to the progressive idea that judges could be recalled. (The recall provision was later restored after Arizona became a state.) The cattle ranchers, a powerful lobby in Arizona, also opposed Arizona becoming a state. In any case, Arizona's drive to become a state was long and complicated. According to history, there were a total of 39 bills and 12 joint resolutions aimed in part or exclusively at making Arizona a state introduced in the two houses of Congress. I guess things are so different today! Thankfully, Congress finally came to an agreement on one of these bills and the president approved it!"
Legend has it that Arizona Democrat Henry Ashurst, who was elected to the U.S. Senate in 1912 and served nearly 29 years, supposedly rose in Congress and said, "All that Arizona needs to flourish is good people and water." To which a senator from New England supposedly replied, "You could say the same about hell!" It was a good thing they never said this in front of those of us who live in beautiful Tucson, as we would have had a thing or two to say to him!
This past weekend there were many fun events around Tucson to celebrate our state's centennial. It was a typical gorgeous Tucson weekend and one to appreciate the wonderful state that we live in. So, Happy 100th Birthday Arizona!
Our RCoT club has worked with the Rotary Club of Amman Petra in Jordan in the past to create a very successful Science Lab Project. Now, another important opportunity has been proposed by the Amman Petra Club to collaborate with our club to provide a number of independent water catchment systems for small rural communities in the Jordan desert. Water catchment, or otherwise called rainwater harvesting, involves the construction of a system to accumulate and store rainwater for reuse before it reaches the aquifer. It can be used to provide drinking water, water for livestock, and irrigation. It can be a game changer in the lives of people who benefit from these systems and is badly needed in the rural areas of Jordan.
The Amman Petra club has thus far raised $8,500 from its members, the largest single club contribution from one of our Rotary partners outside the US involving a project with our District 5500. With their District funds and the Rotary Foundation match, they have amassed a total of $18,750. We've had wonderful success in working with this club and district in the past and they very much want this project to be completed soon.
Each water catchment system costs $4,000. Member Sally Montagne helped to refine the grant application. Past RI Director, Phil Silvers, and Past President Hugh Thompson and their spouses have each donated $2,000 towards this project. Past President Jim Ronstadt championed the project in our club and helped to get other members to agree to donate to the water catchment systems project. These donations created the opportunity to obtain critically necessary District Designated Funds of $10,625 from our own District 5500. (When Rotary members donate to Rotary International's Annual Fund, half of this goes to the World Fund and the other half is credited to the DDF, i.e. the District Designated Fund which are made available to the district to spend three years later. Districts can use their DDF to pay for the Foundation activities they choose to participate in.) Your Rotary Foundation board led by Past President Jon Wang discussed this project recently and enthusiastically endorsed this project.
Many of our members join Rotary because of the opportunity to participate in international projects that build goodwill across the world and will make a difference in the lives of people far less fortunate than ourselves. Thank you to our wonderful RCoT members who are helping to make this project a success!
RCoT Members Donate to Jordan Water Catchment Systems
Thanks to the JCC for a fantastic meeting site and lunch.
TED KIRACOFE gave the invocation. He reminded us all that a teacher
is much more then just a person standing at a board talking. MAGGIE KOSINSKI performed our pledge and song. She sang it "Acapulco"
style (yes I know that's not right but there was a joke in there). SEAN FURRIER
stepped up and did guests and visiting Rotarians. I think JIM RONSTADT
went to the Double Tree and was mesmerized by the pretty little stones.
Our birthday boys were TOM ELLINWOOD who donated to the San Carlos Fund
and PETE RAGUZIN offered support to the Reading Seed. Happy B-Day!
We had some great announcements; we need home hosts, a wine tasting, hikes to
prep for the canyon, and most important was the longest word in the dictionary
was 1,000 letters. I am still wondering if I heard that right? Dr.
Pedicone gave us a nice update on the state of TUSD. At the end of the
day you must have the culture to make the change. Madam President was
eager to finish on time because of my predecessors comments. I am not
sure she made it with the toast length. However, it didn't matter because
I was thinking of my five joyful things.
For our first hike of 2012, a robust group of Rotary Club of Tucson Hikers gathered at LISA FOGLE's beautiful east side home last Saturday morning. Early arrivers were treated to a tour of her extensive art collection. Lisa then led the assemblage to the trailhead of the Milagrosa-Agua Caliente Loop Trail, just yards from her driveway. Winding up one side and down the other of Agua Caliente and Milagrosa Canyons on Tucson's northeast side, the trail is not mentioned in Hikemesiter TOM ANDREWS' guides for the region. Just over six miles in length, with a gain in elevation of 970 feet, the trail brought Rotarians to new territory with stunning views. JEFF HEATH, having already completed one hike for the morning, met the others a mile or so up the trail. TOM ANDREWS, CHUCK SAWYER, JAN GREEN, DAN GUARE, BOBBY LARSON, TOM BROWNING, JERRY HARRIS, KENT LAUGHBAUM, and Mary Laughbaum only passed a handful of other hikers on this closely guarded secret trail. Other signs of life along the way were several sets of large paw prints, a well worn side trail to one of the watering holes, and tire tracks . . . evidence of the mountain bike race scheduled for that day. The trail offered some spectacular views into the canyons, a trickle of water through the wash, and a superb view of the entire valley. Having made a slight detour at the end of our trek, we were rescued from an extra mile or two of pavement hiking by JEFF HEATH with his pickup truck, who brought us safely back to our vehicles at Lisa's home. TOM ANDREWS offered everyone cold beverages and DAN GUARE demonstrated helpful stretches for our post trek good health. All short term memories were immediately eliminated to preserve the pristine nature of the Milagrosa-Aqua Caliente Loop Trail. Overall it was an excellent pre-superbowl workout with great Rotarian fellowship!
The annual Tucson Festival of Books is coming up March 10-11 and Rotary will have a booth on the mall this year. The Festival of Books has donated $500,000 over the past three years to literacy causes, including Reading Seed. Bill Viner, the festival chairman who was honored last year by our club, has stated that the money raised this year will go to groups including the Literacy for Life Coalition of which Reading Seed is a part. This event is great fun, with lots of activities for all ages, a variety of yummy foods from vendors, author speakers, and tours. This year's event will feature several big-name authors including Larry McMurtry, Diana Ossana, John Sandford, Lisa See, and T.C. Boyle. If you are interested in volunteering for a one hour (or more) stint at the Rotary Booth, please contact Charlotte Harris.
Assistant District Governor and Past President Charlotte Harris recognized members Judy Keagy and Jesse Thorpe at last week's meeting for delivering dictionaries to the third graders of two schools. Judy and Jesse each spoke about how excited the third graders were to have their very own dictionary. This past fall, our club donated $2,000 towards the District drive to provide every third grader in Pima County with their own dictionary.
Judy also shared that Lineweaver Elementary School, just down the street from the Doubletree, will be celebrating Love of Reading Week, February 13-17th and the school has invited local Rotarians to come and read one of their favorite children's books on Thursday, February 16th at 9:00 a.m. There are approximately 20 classrooms. If we could have ten volunteers from our club who are each willing to read to two classes, we could help Lineweaver to have a successful event. It would require about 45 minutes of volunteer time, total.
Volunteers are invited to share their own children's books, perhaps one that they enjoyed as a child or one that their own children/grandchildren cherished. Otherwise, some books to read could be pre-selected for the volunteer readers. If you have some time on February 16th at 9:00 a.m. and would like to join Judy Keagy in reading to the children of Lineweaver, please sign up this week at our Rotary meeting or contact Judy at rlkjck@comcast.net. This event would help to deepen our club's community relationships through this Love of Reading activity.
In the next week you can expect to see a Club Survey pop up in your email from your President-Elect Jim Lubinski and his committee who are seeking to find out what you like and dislike about our club meetings. If you don't receive an email, you can also get a paper copy available on the tables at the meeting. (Please only fill out one survey per member!) Your Board is most interested in knowing what will make our Club more valuable to you personally.
I attend monthly breakfast meetings with other club presidents in our area, from Saddlebrooke and Marana, down to Green Valley, over to Vail, and everything in between. District 5500 leadership also attend and report on District-wide events and initiatives. It is interesting to hear what other clubs are doing to link their members closely and to attract new members. Some have reported that member success has been achieved by increasing the number of community events, such as planting trees at schools, working with their local food banks, or starting a community garden downtown.
The Rincon Club is piloting the Associate Membership program this year. Rotary International is piloting two programs this year, Associate Memberships and Corporate Memberships, with specific clubs. If either or both of these prove to build membership, they are likely to be available formally through all clubs.
This year, Rotary International re-branded youth opportunities and programs within Rotary as "New Generations", who will hopefully someday become future Rotarians. New Generations is Rotary's fifth Avenue of Service. Interact, Rotaract, RYLA, and Youth Exchange are included in Rotary's New Generations programs. No doubt Jim will hear much more about this at both PETS (President Elect Training) in March and at the Rotary International meeting in May. This likely will result in a shift in how we label one or more of our Board of Director titles and our committee structure. We try to maintain the traditions that are highly valued by our members while continuing to change to attract new members and to retain current ones.
Under the leadership of CEO and President Judy Rich, Tucson
Medical Center and local physicians, with the help of health technology
and services company Optum, announced they are creating the
nation’s first “Sustainable Health Community,” based on an Accountable
Care Organization (ACO) model in which hospitals, physicians, residents,
It would be interesting to know why our each of our members chose to join our club and why each of us continues as a member of the greatest Rotary club in the universe! Did you join because you wanted to be able to be involved in international charitable project like eradicating polio in the world? Or did you join because you wanted to become involved in our local community charities efforts? Or perhaps you knew that our members are a wonderfully congenial group or you joined so that you could enjoy the fellowship of our club and have the opportunity to hear a diverse and high level guest speakers every week? Perhaps you are committed to furthering the education of children in our community through our Reading Seed program, our college scholarships, or our Rotary exchange programs. No doubt our Members join for all of these reasons!
Over the 91 years since our club was created, our members have shaped the direction and involvement of RCoT in our community and beyond. In 2000 our club was challenged to bring forward a millenium project. Members proposed a variety of projects and our club voted and settled on moving forward on the Reading Seed program, a fledgling program that needed leadership and financial support. Reading Seed grew to more than 1,000 volunteers helping children throughout Pima County to read. In 2011, the Reading Seed Board voted, under the leadership of board chair and RCoT past president Jim Murphy, to merge with four other literacy organizations in Pima County to create a new organization called "Literacy Connects." Each of the literacy programs has retains its own identify and our club continues to provide annual support to Reading Seed through half of the proceeds from our annual Tucson Classics Car Show. We will find some time soon for Elizabeth Campbell, of Reading Seed, to update us soon at a club meeting.
Our annual Car Show has developed into a recognized signature community event that requires a lot of work starting with ticket sales, lining up car show entrants, organization and effort requiring virtually every club member, many of their family members, and numerous volunteers. The proceeds of our Car Show is split between Reading Seed and community charities screened by our Communities Charities Committee and voted on by our members. Last week two representatives from St. Elizabeth's Dental Clinic program, one of last year's Car Show recipients, reported at our meeting how many people were served as the result of our gift. Our members should each feel good about helping children learn to read at grade level before they enter the fourth grade. You should feel good about helping children get health-saving dental work that their families couldn't afford otherwise. You should feel proud that your efforts have helped seniors have programs that make them feel cared for in their final years. In the next few months you will hear about several of our international projects and you will have the chance to hear from our member and past President Hugh Thompson and our outbound GSE team about their trip to the Middle East.
There is no other single organization, in my opinion, that does so much to build better relationships throughout the world.I hope you feel as proud as I do about being a member or Rotary and, in particular, being a member of the Rotary Club of Tucson!
"BEING WHO WE ARE IS A GIVEN; BECOMING WHO WE ARE IS THE STRUGGLE," RCOT member Jan Green.
Your member Jan Green has described his avocational activities as a "sad golfer, weak skier, and an unproductive gardener." For those of us who know Jan, this hardly describes what he has done beyond his long and successful career as a urological surgeon. We would describe him as a dedicated caring Rotarian who has involved himself in a variety of activities since joining our club in July 2006. Jan has represented our club in helping to promote The Rotary Vocational Fund of Arizona, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization whose mission is to partner with Rotary clubs to provide assistance to the working poor to obtain education, training, and skill development so that they are prepared to enter, re-enter, or advance in the workplace. Jan and his wife, Wendy, participated in the recent San Carlos trip helping to distribute gifts to needy children there.
Jan is very thankful for his maternal grandmother and his own parents for supporting fourteen years of Adventist education. He attended and graduated from the Adelphian Academy in Holly, Michigan. He then attended La Sierra College in Arlington, California graduating with a BA in 1961. He graduated from the Indiana University School of Medicine in 1966, followed by a year long surgical internship at the Indiana University School of Medicine. Upon completing his MD, he served in Vietnam as a Lieutenant Commander in the US Navy. After he returned from Vietnam he completed a four-year urological residency in Los Angeles County at the University of Southern California Medical Center.
As a specialist in urological surgery, Jan had a long and impressive career. He spent most of it in South Bend, Indiana in private practice and served on three hospitals' medical staff in many leadership roles including as Chief of Surgery at St. Joseph's Medical. Jan has always felt that giving back to his community was important. He served as a past trustee of the South Bend Art Center board, on the Vietnam Veterans' Memorial Commission, a trustee of the South Bend Medical Foundation Board, and as a Director of the board of St. Clair Darden Health Systems.
Jan has written that the spiritual decisions of our ancestors determine who we are. But it is the challenges of our lives that we face, both losses and successes, and the lessons we've learned as the result, that defines who we become. Jan appreciates both the blessings and the lessons he has learned along the way and says that life in Tucson is good!
The
meeting began with a moving invocation by TONY PENN of the United Way of Tucson
and Southern Arizona.GORDON SHAW as
usual did not disappoint with his pledge and song, reminding us of the
anniversary of the Star Spangled Banner (even though he stuck to his old
standby America the Beautiful and to his “Fellows and Fellas” salutation to the
Club; we never tire of that, right?).CLIFF BOWMAN made the introductions and celebrated his birthday.Also celebrating her birthday a bit late (Christmas
Eve was the actual day to be exact) was LESLIE GALLOWAY.She invited all Rotary Club members to sit
down with her and STEVE CHRISTY for half an hour some time to hear what sounded
like some sort of Brady Bunch explanation of the relationships in her
family.Representatives of St.
Elizabeth’s Health Center, grant recipients from our Club, thanked us profusely
and then explained that they had spent the money in record time.KANDIE VACTOR was awarded as a well-deserving
Honorary Member for her many years of service to the Club.JOE PENNINGTON was also honored for his
exceptional contribution to the Car Show.NINA TRASOFF introduced the new President of the University of Arizona,
Dr. Eugene Sander.His presentation was
a combination of an inspiring vision for the University, worrying facts about
the cost of an education and the growing size of student loans, and technical
jargon that dazed the audience.Some
audience members were stunned to learn that ASU apparently does not “bar code”
its students and push them through with a degree, though.PRESIDENT JONI CONDIT continued the tradition
of her latter term by running well over the time limit but doing so in a
winning way.
John
J. Pedicone is the Superintendent of Tucson Unified School District.Prior to this appointment, he was a Senior
Faculty Fellow in the Educational Leadership Program at the University Of
Arizona College Of Education, and the Vice-president of the Southern Arizona
Leadership
Please note the change in meeting location for Wednesday, February 1st at noon: the Jewish Community Center on River Road will host the Rotary Club of Tucson and our speaker Dr. John Pedicone, TUSD Superintendent.
Each month the Rotary club Presidents in the Pima County area all meet along with one or more of the Assistant District Governors for breakfast to share what each Club is doing and to learn about upcoming District-wide events and programs. At the meeting on January 23, we were reminded that on January 28th there is a Rotary Leadership Institute scheduled for January 28 in Casa Grande. The next one after that is April 27 in Tucson. This is an excellent training program for those who aspire to leadership positions within the club or beyond. If you are interested, please contact Sharyn Chesser at svchesser@cox.net.
Of note, the Gates challenge to Rotary to raise $2 million to eradicate polio from the earth was surpassed! At the time of the deadline, $202.6 MM had been raised. The Gates Foundation donated an additional $50MM to the cause in recognition of the tremendous effort without any matching challenge requirements. Great progress is being made!
On March 10th, Rotary will be sponsoring a booth at the Festival of Books on the U of A campus mall. If you are interested in spending an hour to help man the booth, please contact Ray Naylor at rwnaylor@comcast.net.
The Rincon Rotary Club is hosting its annual fundraiser, "The Taste of Chocolate" on April 15th. If we help sell tickets to it, we can get the 50% split on it just as we've done with other Rotary clubs on our Car Show. Please let me know if you are interested and I can put you in touch with the right person.
The University of Arizona is in a period of transition as it prepares for the arrival of its 21st president.
The new president will lead an institution that is setting records in enrollment, diversity, research performance and access to alternative degree pathways. In spite of some historic challenges, interest in and access to a UA education is at an all-time high.
Our resplendent,
charming, and honorable President JONI opened the meeting with her usual style
and grace.Are we lucky to have her, or
what?KEN LIGHT’s humorous
prelude-to-invocation was a test of our collective ability to simply assess a
situation, remember what actions we’ve taken, and learn from our mistakes
--something about giraffes and
elephants in refrigerators which I did not understand nor do I remember and
which I mistakenly did not write down. Past Presidents DON ROLLINGS and GARY
GETHMANN lead us in Pledge and Song.Members were reminded to place the usual $3 into the scholarship cups to
support our continuing UA and Pima scholarships, which hopefully resulted in
full cups on every table.BRUCE TUNZE
added class to the day with his skillful and smooth introduction of guests and
visiting Rotarians from as far away as Colorado, Illinois, Virginia, and
Minnesota.LARRY PETH made a special
introduction of his guest Rotarians (Bill and Sarah Bishop) from the tiny town
of Paonia, Colorado, both of whom are past presidents of the Paonia Rotary
Club.Bill was handed the mic to say a
few words…..and he may still be speaking at this writing.GARY GETHMANN took his rightful place at the
head table in honor of his birthday and was so recognized, but our wonderfully
talented and graceful Executive Director Mary Laughbaum attempted to “fly
stealthily under the radar” in hopes that her 50th birthday would go
unrecognized. President JONI was not fooled nor was she undeterred in duly
recognizing the big day and our Club’s deep appreciation for Mary with a mega
flower/balloon bouquet provided by IRENE DECKER.TOM ANDREWS announced a planned Rotary hike
into (and hopefully back out as well) the Grand Canyon in March to allow
members to check this adventure off of their bucket lists, which will include a
considerable conditioning regimen for our members to ensure the adventure is
not the last thing they check off
their bucket lists.PAT LENNAN let us
know that MONTE CLAUSEN came thru his unexpected major heart surgery very well
and is on the mend.Get well soon,
MONTE!CHARLOTTE HARRIS and BOB LOGAN
awarded Paul Harris Fellows to LEE AITKEN, JOHN GIMMLER, ALAN ROGERS, JACK
PARRIS, and Jack’s son Chris – a remarkably accomplished group in whom we are
all most proud and appreciative of their generosity.BOB LOGAN gave the club an IOU for $20 to
announce that the UA College of Science and Engineering is offering a series of
lectures entitled “Living Beyond 100” which will address the latest research in
human longevity – hopefully it is not too late for some of us to learn some new
tricks.CARMEN BERMUDEZ eloquently
introduced our speaker, Guadalupe Ramirez, in her beautiful Costa Rican
accent.Nogales Port Director Guadalupe
(A Boy Named Sue) enlightened us on
many aspects of Customs and Border Protection and emphasized the delicate
balance his people must find between interdicting bad people and bad stuff
flowing both ways across the border and facilitating the flow of trade from
which both countries, and Arizona especially ($2.6B per year), benefit
tremendously.Did you know that 60% of
the produce we import from Mexico comes thru the Nogales port --2500 trucks per day?Did you know that Guadalupe’s team seized
$10,000,000 of the drug money heading from the US into Mexico last year?We owe the fine men and women staffing our
key Port of Entry a debt of gratitude as JONI well conveyed in her closing
toast.
This past weekend Past District Governor Ernie Montagne provided a summary of our club's accomplishments related to District 5500's Ride to End Polio as part of the El Tour de Tucson this past November 19, 2011. The goals of D5500 included:
100 riders
$100,000 for polio
100% participation
There were a total of 85 riders who raised $104,000 to end polio. The Rotary Club of Tucson provided excellent leadership in this endeavor through the efforts of Gary Hirsch. We had a team of fourteen riders who together raised a total of $13,387 to help end polio and to honor Michael Harris, Rotarian and husband of our Past President, and current Assistant District Governor Charlotte Harris. All told, our club donated over $24,000 towards the End Polio effort from July 1-Dec 31, 2011 from online donations and by funds raised by riders and non-riders. We had several friends and family members of Rotarians riding as well. Charlotte was instrumental in keeping an accurate tally and forwarding these funds to The Rotary Foundation to ensure that members received proper Paul Harris credit and the club received credit towards its Polio Plus goal.
Next year's El Tour de Tucson is November 17, 2012 and the District is already planning for our fourth D5500 Ride to End Polio so it is not too early to start training on your bike!
Your Board met for their monthly board meeting this past Tuesday, January 17th. As always, it was a full agenda! One of the key items of discussion your Board is focused on is the importance of the engagement and enthusiasm of the members for their club. The Board is sensitive to the economic challenges that many of our members have faced over the past several years and how that affects the ability of members to maintain their 50% attendance. One thing that I've noted is that sometimes our members do not take advantage of taking credit for the many Rotary endorsed events that may be substituted for a meeting. I'm not suggesting that we want to discourage meeting attendance but we want you to get credit for all that you do!
Many any of our members are active in club committees or other Rotary activities like bell-ringing for the Salvation Army, a Car Show meeting, working the Car Show, or being a reading mentor. If you do something related to Rotary within two weeks either side of a missed meeting, you may use this as a make-up.There are make-up forms at at the registration table as you walk into our meetings. (There is a wire basket that holds the forms which you just fill out and leave in the basket). Alternately, you can always make-up by attending another Rotary club's meeting or by jumping on-line to www.rotaryeclubone.org. You simply need to spend 30 minutes on the website, read several of the make-up programs and complete the form to request this as a substitute meeting. Print the form out and submit to the Rotary eClub One site, which will also email a copy to our Rotary office, and you will have credit for the meeting for which you need a make-up. You can leave the form in the wire basket as well.
Most importantly, your Board appreciates the opportunity to serve our members and hopes that it is working to meet your goals and interests in Rotary. Your President-Elect, Jim Lubinski, is convening a group of fellow Rotarians who are looking at what our club could do differently to improve our meetings. We will be sending out a survey soon. Please help us to better serve you and make Rotary an even better experience by completing the survey. Thank you!
Over the holidays, I received a very nice note from Past District Governor Phil Silvers who was a former member and President of RCoT. Along with his note was a very interesting sheet from February 18th, 1992 regarding the 7th Annual Rotary Club of Tucson Auction, Raffle and Dinner Dance Fundraiser. On it was listed two pages of donors and the items donated to our club's annual fundraiser for that year. While it made me smile, it also made me aware of the passage of time and to recall many who were members in my first year in Rotary. I thought you might be interested in some of the entries:
Donor/ Items
Jerry Shull- weekend package at Smuggler's Inn; Earl Upham - Jewelry items; Don Laidlaw, two season tickets to U of A football/50 yardline; Cedric Dempsey U of A - 2 sidelines tickets to the USC or UCLA/U of A football game; Alan Hanshaw: residential real estate closing review; Dewey Barich: handmade silver spoon; Katie Dusenberry: Piano moved + $100 cash; Jim Officer: gold cufflinks by Tiffany; Maurice Speer: $100 cash; Senator Douglas Holsclaw: Cash; Ray Manley: 6 "World Travel" books; Ace Bushnell: lapis lazul necklace; Ron Janoff: set of Rotary Sweatshirts for whole family; Ed Butterbaugh: painting; and Billy Joe Varney: Hand carved and painted quail by Bill Woods (and other items).
These are just a few of the donors and items donated that year to our annual fundraiser. It is interesting to see that while we have lost members and thankfully gained those who have come behind, the generosity of our members has been consistent over the years. Hopefully, it will inspire each of us to continue to contribute to our annual fundraiser in any way we can and to consider that in twenty years, perhaps someone will remember that we have done so!
"In 1915, Rotary adopted a code of ethics and began printing it on pocket-sized cards. As members began to carry and read this code, they began to believe it. Thus a Rotary trend developed which, I think, played a major part in changing "Let the buyer beware" to "The customer is always right." H.J. Brummer, RI President, 1952-1953.
The years since 2008 have been very difficult for many of our members, some of whom are no longer able to participate in Rotary. In many ways, times are not so different from the Great Depression when so many Americans faced terrible financial challenges. Like so many others in the midst of such financial and ethically difficult times, Herbert J. Taylor,a member of the Rotary Club of Chicago, was the owner of Club Aluminum and on the verge of bankruptcy. His working capital was gone and his competitors were ruthless. In an effort to save his company and his employees' jobs, he developed a set of ethical standards which he called "The Four Way Test." He applied these four tests to all of his company's dealings with customers, dealers, and vendors and used these four standards to determine whether his company would work with someone. If the relationship would appear to fail any of these four tenets, he refused to do business with them, regardless of how profitable the relationship might prove to be. These four points included:
1. Is it the TRUTH?
2. Is it FAIR to all concerned?
3. Will it build GOODWILL and BETTER FRIENDSHIPS?
4. Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned?
These four tenets served to turn around Club Aluminum and when Herbert Taylor became the President of Rotary International in 1954, he donated the copyright of the test to Rotary. The Four Way Test has been translated into the language of more than 100 countries and serves as the basis of all that Rotarians say and do. While Rotary is focused on its philanthropic efforts, it also started as a means to help business owners to sift out who among them shared common ethics, values, and community aspirations. As we determine who we would hire or collaborate with from a business perspective, it is reassuring to know that our fellow Rotarians are those that we can hopefully trust to share our ethical standards and values.
The January 11, 2012 meeting of the Rotary Club of Tucson was called to order by President JONI CONDIT. JACK PARRIS gave the Invocation. The Pledge and song were led by DAN GUARE. He was accompanied on the piano by GARY GETHMANN. After JOHN ADTKINS introduced our guests, LEE AITKIN, STU GOLDMAN, and BEN HAWKINS were each recognized for their birthdays and service to Rotary. VICKIE JACOBS and CHRIS REANEY handed out Blue Badges to ANN LANCERO, SALLY MONTAGNE, MIKE DEVRIES, and JERRY HARRIS. JON WANG paid tribute to SID HIRSH for his contributions to the relay efforts our Rotary Members have made for the last twenty five years in the Tucson Marathon. MATT BLAIR then conducted a spirited raffle. He said that over Two Hundred Fifty Dollars were raised for Rotary operations through today's raffle. TOM STRASBURG announced that the date of the 2012 Tucson Classics Car Show had been changed to October 13, 2012. He also called for volunteers to distribute Car Show Flyers on January 21st and January 28th. President Joni then announced that long time Rotarian MONTE CLAUSEN underwent surgery this week and will be out for four to six weeks. She also reminded us that Larry Ronstadt, seven year old son of JEFF RONSTADT, is fighting leukemia and would appreciate cards, especially those with music or voice recordings. CINDY GODWIN introduced Tara Jackson and Brint Milward. They spoke on efforts to further civil dialogue in Town Hall Meetings. They said that civil discourse should be frank, honest, robust and civil. They are enlarging the scope of Town Hall meetings to include high school students. The 100th Arizona Town Hall Meeting will be held in Tucson from April 24 through April 27. They did not address how to screen dullards, pompous fools, professional rabble rousers, and raging idiots from open meetings. After a toast by President Joni, the meeting was adjourned.
MARCIA KRUMWIEDE is in Corporate Marketing
for this week's highlighted Tucsotarian sponsor. She has been a member
of
our club since July 2005. Along with a number or positions held on the
board and different committees, Marcia also has been very active in the
annual Car Show, as a
Team Leader managing the Admissions area for several years.
Copper State Communications
has been in business since 1982, providing many
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Toshiba. The
business partnerships they have with Century Link, TW Telecom, Integra,
Paetec and 60+
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and
internet needs. As Copper State's Certified Network Engineers can assist
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Marcia
and Copper State Communicates are capable of handling all of your
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Thank a Tucsotarian Sponsor (Marica Krumweide and Copper State Communications)
Guadalupe Ramirez began his government career in 1985 with the U.S. Border Patrol as a
Border Patrol Agent in Eagle Pass, Texas.In 1987 he transferred to the U.S. Customs Service as a Customs
Inspector at the Port of El Paso, Texas.In 1990 he was selected for a two year assignment as a Physical Techniques
Instructor detailed to the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center in Glynco,
Georgia.
PAULINE
HECHLER opened the meeting with a golf-themed invocation appropriate to our
speaker. SONNY SOLOT joined in for the
pledge and song, bringing his contagious brand of enthusiasm to the
meeting. During our introduction of
visitors we were joined by Nobuko Ichikawa, District Ambassadorial Scholar, who
brought us a banner from her Rotary Club near Osaka, Japan. After some confusion and delay, we located
our own Club banner to give in exchange.
Apparently, HUGH THOMPSON keeps extras for just such occasions. PAT LENNAN praised our bell ringing results,
and then JON WANG added his colorful comments to the reading of the relay
results by President JONI CONDIT. Had he
been attending the 11:30 Club or was he just in a good mood? HOOT GIBSON was the sole birthday this week but
made up for it by insulting the average age of our members. However, in all fairness, the average Club
member is probably barely old enough to have to take minimum required
distributions from his or her retirement plan.
CHRIS EDWARDS introduced our speaker, the heavily-accented Gerald
Goodman, Executive Director of Accenture Match Play. Gerald compared his Southern drawl with new member
JERRY HARRIS, and those of us not from the region were hard-pressed not only to
differentiate between them but to understand either of them. But we could feel the excitement of our
speaker and he seems intent on keeping the tournament in Tucson (technically
the Town of Marana: Take Your Wheels Off and Stay Awhile).
Due to a change of the U of A football schedule for 2012, we
have changed the 2012 Car Show date, moving it up one week to October 13, 2012. What was originally a “bye” weekend for U of
A football was changed to an October 20th home game with Washington in
combination with “Family Weekend” at the University.
The October 13th date is a “bye” weekend for U of
A football and turned out to be a better date for St. Gregory’s as well.
Our biggest concern, causing this change, was the
availability of many of our members and volunteers who are avid U of A
supporters. Fortunately, no expenditures
had yet been made to promote the 2012 show so no money has been wasted as a
result of this change.
Please mark your calendars with this new date and SPREAD THE WORD! Let’s make the 2012 Car Show the BEST ever!
Susan Moore Vault is the President and Chief Strategist of Moore Financial Strategies. She has worn many hats in her life. This wife, mother, and grandmother served her country for four years in the US Air Force, worked as Pima County Attorney's Office's first female detective and was know as the First Lady of Law Enforcement. A legacy of her work with the Pima County Attorney's Office is the CRIME STOPPERS/88-CRIME program still serving Pima County today. Susan began her career with Northwestern Mutual Life. Eight years later, she opened her own practice. Susan believes strongly in the relationships she has with her clients and it is how she built her practice, serving them with integrity.
Susan holds a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration from the University of Phoenix and has a passion for staying current in an ever-changing financial world that can affect her clients' financial safety. Her professional credentials include LUTCF (Life Underwriting Training Council Fellow), CLTC (Certified in Long Term Care) as well as ongoing continuing education. She is a graduate of the Tucson Leadership Program.
Susan has been a Rotarian for over 20 years and she joined the Rotary Club of Tucson in 2011. She is married to Frank Vault and they enjoy traveling and keeping up with their children and grandchildren. Their family has a long history of military service. In addition to Susan's service, her husband Frank served for 25 years in Navy, retiring as a Lieutenant. Susan's father served in World War II and was captured by the Nazis during the Battle of the Bulge and was held in a concentration camp until the end of the war. Susan's daughter, Lisa, served in the US Navy and their grandson, Michael Lloyd, is serving his country as a tank driver for the US Marine Corp. We appreciate this family's service to our country. Susan has been a very active and involved member since joining our club and we appreciate her many talents and contributions.
This past weekend marked the first anniversary of the worst tragedy in Tucson's history. While that weekend in 2011 brought pain, terror, and grief to the lives of so many, it also caused our community to come together in a way that was remarkable. Like other national tragedies, we can each remember what we were doing at the moment we heard what happened. I was reorganizing my pantry and my husband was at work. When we heard there was a shooting at the Congress On Your Corner, our hearts nearly stopped. Our youngest daughter, Maggie, works for Gabby's community constituents' office and was scheduled to work at the Safeway event that Saturday. We frantically started calling her cell phone. We will forever be grateful to Gabe Zimmerman who insisted, as she helped Gabe to load his car with materials for the event, to stay home and rest because Maggie had a bad cold. We shudder to think about what might have been, and still feel grief for the loss of a talented man who was a caring role model for our daughter.
We can take pride that our community turned this terrible shooting rampage into many opportunities to do wonderful and lasting tributes to those we lost including the dedication of a federal courthouse honoring the late Judge John Roll, the creation of a river park honoring the memory of a beautiful little girl, and the dedication of Davidson Canyon Trailhead to Gabe Zimmerman, a bright, kind, and generous man poised to make a huge difference in the world. We all rooted for Gabby's swift and complete recovery. We were in awe of how the families who lost beloved family members and were caring for those who were terribly injured did not spend condemning the shooter or his family. Instead, their focus was on compassion, hope, and moving forward. Individuals and groups created scholarships, foundations, memorials, artwork, and sponsored many events to honor and remember those who died or injured. There were so many numerous acts of kindness, both small and huge, that came as the result of this tragedy. Our nation had the opportunity to see the depth and breadth of what Tucsonans are made of when President Obama visited our city four days after the shooting.
As we look to the opportunities of the coming year and consider what will be needed of us individually to make our world a better place for all, we should remember how powerful we were as a community following the tragedy. There was love, kindness, compassion and a strong desire to do good. As we recall that strength of community, let us seek to elect leaders who will unite us to work positively and collaboratively on our many challenging and complex state, national and international issues. We should reject the negative rhetoric and ugly rancor that we so often hear in the media. Our program speakers this week will share with us the principles of civil discourse and what the National Institute on Civil Discourse is doing along with the Arizona Project for Civil Discourse. Let us consider how much more effective we can be if we can have vigorous debate and dialogue which includes respectful and careful attention to those who oppose us, without mean-spirited denigration for our differences. I believe that as Rotarians we are in a wonderful place to model this behavior for all those that we come in contact with using the four-way test as our guide.
What exactly is
civil discourse and how can we achieve it?
More
importantly, why now? Why has the call become increasingly louder for a
concerted effort to find a different way of electing our leaders, solving our
problems and interfacing with each other?
A desire for
supporting political debate that is both frank and civil led to the creation of
the National Institute for Civil Discourse in 2011. Sharing the tools
Gordon Graham joined Rotary in June 1950 in West Lafayette, Indiana. Before then he spent nearly two years during World War II on islands in the South Pacific. The Hoosier farm boy also fired up his passion for Purdue University. He came west and served on the faculties of universities of Wyoming and Arizona. Gordon served on the U of A faculty as a professor in Agriculture Education from 1968 to 1990, then retiring as Professor Emeritus.
He and his wife, Nancy (of Washington State), have enjoyed more than two dozen Elderhostel bicycle trips in the US and foreign countries. They visited Rotary Clubs along the way so that Gordon could maintain his attendance record. The Grahams have two lovely daughters, six adult grandchildren, and two great-grandkids. George Hull, now deceased, introduced Gordon to our Rotary Club of Tucson in June 1968.
Happy New Year to each of our members and their loved ones. I hope you all had a blessed holiday season and had time to spend time with those you cherish. About 165 of our club members and their significant others gathered at the Windmill Inn on December 21st at our Holiday Mixer (in lieu of our regular meeting that day) to relax and enjoy one another's company. Danny Scordato, owner of Vivace's Restaurant next door, served us a delicious Italian dinner and a some wonderful wine that Danny donated to the event. It was a really fun couple of hours organized by Rita Marshall and Virginia Leavitt so thanks to them for the fun time. Dot Kret took lots of photos so look forward to seeing those.
If you were watching the annual Tournament of Roses Parade this past Monday, you would have seen the Rotary International float that won. The float was called "Inching Towards The End of Polio" displaying an inchworm dressed as a doctor depicting how close we are to ending polio in the world. This is the 32nd year that Rotary International has entered a float. No Rotary funds are used for the project and it is created by private donations. President Kalyan Banerjee points out that Rotary's float each year provides a great opportunity to reach millions of people with the message of Rotary's commitment to service and dedication to ending polio and seeking international peace. It is a wonderful public relations opportunity to get our message out to all who watch the parade. President Banerjee and his wife, Binota, rode on the float this year.
Gerald Goodman's appointment as Executive Director of the Accenture Match Play marks his return to the PGA TOUR. This 20-plus-year veteran of the golf industry began his career with the PGA TOUR in 1989 as a marketing manager. Most recently, he was tournament director of PGA TOUR events held at Innisbrook Resort and Golf Club in the Tampa/St Petersburg, Florida area from 1995-2010.
Sometimes it seems that people have to retire to get back to what they originally dreamed of being. Our newest RCoT member, Jerry Harris, is now busy writing his second novel which he hopes to submit for publication this coming summer. His upcoming novel deals with the failure of the American South to keep its good traditions intact and the failure to shed the shackles of its corrosive prejudices and failures. Back when Jerry was an undergrad major in English at Millsaps College in Jackson, Mississippi, he studied creative writing under Nobel Prize winner, Eudora Welty. Jerry won awards for his short stories in the Southern Literary Festival in 1965 and 1966. But Jerry's dad encouraged him to become a lawyer, so instead of becoming a writer, he went to law school at the University of Mississippi.
During his career and until his retirement in 2004, Jerry was involved in prosecuting criminal cases and tried over 300 homicide cases. He was the head of the Major Violators Unit before being appointed Chief Homicide Prosecutor. More than a dozen of his trials were broadcase live on Court TV. In addition to his vigorous law career, Jerry and his daughter, Paige, trained and showed Tennessee Walking Horses and Quarter Horses on the amateur circuit in the south. He also competed in over forth triathlons and has hiked the Grand Canyon numerous times. Jerry is married to Audrey Tuberville, an eye surgeon at the VA Hospital specializing in glaucoma-related illnesses. Audrey and Jerry have been close friends of the Penningtons for years and Joe introduced him to our club. Jerry still enjoys hiking and is a member of our hiking committee. He collects wines and donated some of his favorites to the auction the night before this year's Car Show. He and Audrey also participated in the recent San Carlos trip bringing Christmas presents to children there. He was a member of the Sunset Club in Tennessee for ten years before moving to Tucson.
The December 14, 2011 meeting of the Rotary Club of Tucson
was opened by President JONI CONDIT, who introduced PAT ZUMBUSCH. Pat gave a thoughtful invocation with the
theme on Education. The Pledge and Song,
America the Beautiful, were led by GORDON SHAW.He was accompanied by GARY GETHMANN on the piano.KEVIN WONG introduced the guests and welcomed
them to the meeting. Birthdays were recognized for CLARK DUNCAN, BOBBY LARSEN,
CAM MOORE, JACK PARRIS, and GARY SCHEER. MARGARET HIGGINS introduced the guest
speaker, Fred DuVal, Chair of the Arizona Board of Regents. He gave an update on the Arizona Higher
Education Enterprise. After recounting a
history of budget cuts over the last four years, Arizona's underperformance in
the educational field, and a bleak financial forecast for future years in educational
spending, Mr. DuVal stressed innovation as the key for dealing with the harsh
realities of present day higher education.Cutting out barriers between research universities and community
colleges, utilizing the internet for classrooms, and using same course numbering
in all state universities, were suggestions offered for streamlining
the higher educational system. Closing
on a positive note, Mr. DuVal noted that Arizona higher education had received
a five hundred million dollar grant to study algae as a fuel alternative to
petroleum. CHARLOTTE HARRIS and BOB
LOGAN gave a spirited and lively introduction of six PAUL HARRIS Fellows. JOE
NEVIN gave a Paul Harris Fellow to honor fellow Rotarian, CLEM LESLIE. CLEM related that during a recent hospital
confinement, the first visitor he had was HUGH THOMPSON. It was good to see CLEM and his smile back at
Rotary.TED KIRACOFE, RICH FLYNN and
ROGER HARWELL were also recognized. ROGER
honored his two impressive and productive children, Sarah and Casey, by
contributing Paul Harris Fellows in their names. IRENE DECKER presented SUSAN MOORE-VAULT with
her well deserved Blue Badge. After
introducing new member JERRY HARRIS, JOE PENNINGTON reviewed the astounding
results of the 2011 Tucson Classics Car Show. Record ticket sales resulted in a net profit
of over $115,000. Reading Seed will be awarded $50,000 and St.
Gregory will receive $5,000. JOE was effusive
in his praise for all who contributed their efforts, physical and financial, to
this most successful project.ROBERT
O'BRIEN and JIM SUMWALT were recognized as leading ticket sellers for the Car
Show.JIM LUBINSKI, President Elect,
introduced DAVE GALLAHER as his successor as President. PAT LENNAN thanked everyone who participated in
the December 10 Bell Ringing for the Salvation Army. Over a hundred Rotarians and family members
participated. A final accounting will be announced in January. VIRGINIA LEAVITT, accompanied by cacophonous
members of the Rowdy Table, reminded us of the Holiday Mixer on Wednesday,
December 21, at 5:00 p.m. at the Windmill Suites in St. Phillips Plaza.
President Joni closed the meeting by reminding us that there will be no noon meeting
on December 21 or December 28. The next
lunch meeting will be on January 4, 2012. President
Joni adjourned the meeting after she made a toast to the values and importance
of education.
We just returned from taking Leticia and 3 other exchange students to join District 5490's annual Christmas trip to the rim at the Grand Canyon. A total of 15 kids and 7 adults made the trip. The Grand Canyon Rotary club helps to sponsor and/or underwrite some of the cost. The kids had a great Christmas type of weekend with a special trip from Santa. I was able visit Santa and asked him for protective armor gear......fun was had by all! The kids were able to see Sedona on the way back.
We continue to enjoy Leticia; she is hosted by the Pantano Club and District 5500. She is a without a doubt the most grounded of the students we have hosted. She needs another host family in January to round out her experience although we will be sorry to see her go. While she is not our club's student, she is a District 5500 exchange student and is a great asset to Rotary. She would provide a great introduction into Rotary Youth Exchange for a family that may not have hosted before. Besides her great demeanor, she has an educated understanding of Rotary and I suspect that she will continue her relationship with Rotary as she gets older.
Leticia attends Amphi High School. If it would be easier for another family to host her, there is the possibility that she could attend Salpointe. We will also be hosting Martin (our club's student) for Christmas. He is moving to another host family on December 29th. If you have ever considered hosting an exchange student, Leticia would be a great student to start with! Please give me a call, an email, or talk to me at the Holiday Mixer this week.
If hiking the Grand Canyon is on your 'bucket list' of things to do, your Hiking committee is looking into and planning for a trip and a hike there for RCoT members, their family members and friends. Due to the long lead times for permits and reservations, as well as the need for several conditioning or "Dry Run" hikes here locally, the date(s) of the hike will be at least one year and likely further in the future (possibly Spring 2013). The specific format of the Hike to the Grand Canyon (down and back, rim-to-rim, overnight at the Phantom Ranch or elsewhere) has also not been determined. Depending on the interest level, we may use multiple formats.
We'd like to know if you would like to be included as a "potential" participant in this effort and want to emphasize that this does not in any way obligate you. Please let me know if you or if you have family or friends who might be interested in this hike. Please email Tom Andrews at: TRAndrews@aol.com or let me know at an upcoming meeting.
The Taj Hosting & Fellowship Society Agra (THFSA) was started eleven years ago by L. PDG Satish Wadhwa, from District 3110, to spread friendship between India and international Rotarians. Starting in 2000, the THFSA began to host international Rotarians in AGRA, aka the Tajmahal. Since then, many Rotarians from District 5500 have been hosted including a GSE team, a polio eradication team, and a team working on a matching grant. The THFSA has hosted more than 1000 Rotarians in the homes of Agra Rotarians.
The son of Satish Wadhwa, Rahul Wadhwa, has now assumed the role as the Patron of the "Taj Hosting and Fellowship Society Agra" and he, along iwth prominent Rotarians of Agra, are now offering a standing invitation to promote friendship and to host Rotarians in their homes for 2-3 days to share with them the 1st wonder of the world, Tajmahal, and other nearby monuments and to participate in a polio immunization day. If you or any other Rotarians are interested in participating in any future Polio Immunization Days, please contact Rahul at his email address: friendship@thfsa.com or ask me for the information and I'll provide it. There are a number of immunizations planned in Agra, India in the first four months of 2012.
Gordon Graham: Gordon joined Rotary in June 1950 in West Lafayette, Indiana. Before then, he spent nearly two WWII years on islands in the South Pacific. The Hoosier farm boy also fired up his passion for Purdue University. He came west and served on the faculties of universities of Wyoming and Arizona. He and his wife, Nancy (of Washington State) have enjoyed more than two dozen Elderehostel bicycle trips in the US and foreign countries. They have visited Rotary clubs along the way so that Gordon could maintain his attendance record. The Grahams have two lovely daughters, six grownup grandchildren and two great-grandkids. George Hull, now deceased, introduced Gordon into our Rotary Club of Tucson in June 1968. When I met Jerry in 1991, he was the head of the Mystery Editor Committee, a good role for someone who writes well. He organized this committee for a number of years.
Along with the many important things that we honor and cherish in this holiday season, we should include all of the troops who have served our nation over the past decade in Iraq and Afghanistan and other parts of the world. Regardless of our individual political views, we should all be thankful for the dedication and sacrifices that millions of men and women and their children made for the war in Iraq. Please remember these service men and women in your prayers and thoughts this holiday season as many of them are together with their families for the first time in months or years.
If you were at our most recent meeting, you were able to hear Jim Lubinski, your President-Elect for 2012-2013, share a long list of hints about who will be your President for 2013-2014! It is none other than Dave Gallaher!
Dave Gallaher was born in San Marino, California but moved to Phoenix
at the tender age of four.Nine years
later the family moved to Tucson, setting down roots on the Northwest
side.Dave attended and eventually
graduated from Canyon del Oro High School, Class of 1973.He then joined the five-year college plan,
attending Northern Arizona University before transferring to the U of A where he
graduated in 1978 with a degree in Geography and Regional Development.
Upon graduating, Dave lived briefly in the Land of Enchantment before
returning to Tucson for three years working for Tucson Economic
Development.The itch to move struck him
again, this time taking him to Washington where he worked for the Port
Authority and the Governor’s office.The
Tucson pull was too strong and he once again returned in 1984 where he began a
career in commercial and industrial real estate.
Four years later, our PEE met his spouse while attending a Rotary Group
Study Exchange send-off party for a mutual friend.As it turns out they had known each other
since the eighth grade.It was love at
second sight; Susan and Dave were married later that same year.
Dave is and has been very active in the community.A past president on Big Brothers and Big
Sisters, a former Amphi Schools Foundation board president and Amphi Foundation
Person of the year, past “Event” party chair for the Boys and Girls Club, a 15
year Centurion (he said he would be fined if this was not mentioned . . . ) and
a 21 year member of our club where he has been active in youth exchange and
various works projects and helped start the Boy Scout troop our club has
sponsored for many years.He is also a
Paul Harris Fellow.
Dave founded his company, Tucson Industrial Realty in 1987 and is a
Certified Commercial Investment Management professional, a certification that
only 2% of those in this field hold.In
his free time he enjoys fly fishing, bird hunting, cooking and fine wine.He is married to his lovely wife, Susan, and
they have two children, a 21 year old son who is a young but accomplished
musician currently playing with Calexico and Sergio Mendoza.And their daughter, a former Rotary exchange
student, is currently a sophomore at ASU.
Please join me in welcoming our President Elect-Elect and eventually
our club’s 93rd president, Dave Gallaher!
As I look back over the past year, I realize that our Club offers each of us so much to be thankful for this holiday season. First and foremost, Rotary Club of Tucson members are just simply the best friends that anyone could have. Where else can you come to lunch every week and find at least 175 interesting, entertaining, and kind friends just waiting to sit beside you and share a lunch? Yes, we've lost some friends this past year, some sadly to death, some to moves out of town, and some because of the poor economy. We miss them and hope that the economy improves so that some of our past members can rejoin us.
Because of the diverse interests of our Club members, their high energy level, and commitment to make a difference in our community and beyond, the Rotary Club of Tucson has accomplished a great deal in 2011. We've helped to transition the Reading Seed program into a hopefully long term strong position as a vital part of a literacy continuum so that children in our community will read at grade level by third grade. Your Club continues to support a number of Pima College and University of Arizona students so that we will have a more educated workforce. The success of 2010's Classics Car Show not only provided Reading Seed with $50,000 to continue its important role, but it also funded two other selected and deserving organizations with money to support their programs. The 2011 Classics Car Show has been the most successful of the five thus far raising a net of more than $115,000 for Reading Seed and community charities yet to be selected.
Besides these major local projects, RCoT members supported international projects. Our Club was a major force in the latest push for the End Polio drive with members riding, volunteering, and raising more than $110,000 in the recent El Tour de Tucson. Larry Peth secured a matching grant for a solar lighting project for a school in Tanzania. Your International Committee continued its efforts on the Nogales Wheelchair project in spite of significant challenges anticipating completion in early 2012. The San Carlos Christmas Drive in partnership with the San Carlos Rotary Club resulted in another year of smiles and joy for the children in that community and satisfaction and fun for the Rotarians who participated.
Besides all of the good works that were done (and too numerous to recount here), Club members simply had fun together: hiking, sharing special winetastings and dinners, reading to children as Reading Mentors, hosting and attending Home Hospitality, and hosting exchange students and GSE team members from the Middle East. We are indeed a busy group!
I wish each and every one of you and your loved ones a blessed holiday season and a healthy, happy, and prosperous year in 2012! CHEERS!
We will not meet for lunch on Wednesday, December 21. The Holiday Mixer is a replacement meeting that evening at the Windmill Suites Inn in St. Phillips' Plaza from 5-7pm catered by Danny Scordato's Vivace's. If you cannot attend the Mixer be sure to make-up for that meeting.Wednesday, December 28 is Dark for Rotary. There is no meeting, and no make-up for attendance is required. Our next club meeting is January 4, at the DoubleTree Hotel in the sunset portion of the ballroom. The program will be a
presentation by Gerald Goodman with Accenture Match Play.
The Rotary Club of Tucson office will be closed December 23 and December
30 in observance of Christmas and New Year's. Hours will be limited December 26 through December 30. The Tucsotarian will not be published the week of December 26. Happy Chanukah, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from Mary and Arla!
Pauline Hechler will be collecting food and donations for the Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona this week at Rotary. Consider bringing an food item or a cash / check donation to help provide food for those in need. Priority items:
Canned Meats Canned Vegetables Canned Soups Cereal Peanut Butter Canned Fruit Canned Tomato Products Meal Mixes, such as Hamburger Helper or Rice-A-Roni Condiments
This Wednesday's meeting, December 14th, will be the last regular meeting of 2011. We do have a Holiday Mixer on the following week, December 21st, but it will be a party with no announcements or speaker. We will be dark on December 28th (i.e. no meeting between Christmas and New Year's). Because of this, I hope you will be tolerant of a very busy meeting this week because we have a lot of items on the agenda! We will mix up the order of our normal schedule because our speaker, Fred Duval, needs to be on the road to Phoenix early. But don't rabbit because there will be some good things after that you'll want to hear!
Patrick Zumbusch and Joe Pennington are hoping to share the final numbers from our October Car Show Event at this week's meeting. We will also have several Paul Harris awards and a new member will be introduced. It is the Red Cross blood drive day this Wednesday and encourage all that are able, to donate blood. We have another special announcment in stock for you, but you'll have to show up to find our what it is! I look forward to seeing all of you Wednesday!
Saturday was a good day not just for the U of A Basketball team, but also for Rotarian Bell Ringers all over Tucson. Lee and Judy Aitken were busy checking on those of us ringing on the east and north sides and Pat and Darleen Lennan were busy checking on those on the south and west sides of Tucson. There was a total of 114 members and their family members who rang bells in pairs for two hour shifts at 14 locations. It was a good opportunity to meet and greet people, wearing our Rotary aprons and giving out candy canes. The two hours went by quickly and it was a great opportunity to have a good visit with another Rotarian or your spouse or child! Many thanks to Pat and Lee for organizing this year's bell ringing!We expect to have a total collected and identify the location that raised the most donations by our first meeting in January so stay tuned!
Burt Strug:In some parts of the world, Burt Strug is best known as the Olympic gold metalist, Kerri Strug's dad. He even made People magazine in April 2010 when Kerri got married. But to many of us in southern Arizona, Burt is recognized as one of the best cardio-thoracic surgeons our community has ever had. He followed in the footsteps of his dad, Lawrence H. Strug M.D., who was a professor of cardiac surgery at LSU Medical School and surgeon at Charity Hospital in New Orleans. Burt attended school in New Orleans until he graduated from high school, when he left to attend Brandeis University in Massachusetts. He then returned to New Orleans to attend Louisiana State University Medical School.
After graduating from medical school, Burt worked for a year at Charity Hospital as a surgical intern. He then moved Houston where he did a four year residency in general surgery at Baylor College of Medicine after which he completed an additional two years at Baylor specializing in Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery. This apparently wasn't challenging enough so Burt also joined the US Air Force Reserve while doing his residency, participating in the Berry Plan in Thoracic Surgery for eight years.
He moved to Tucson in 1977 to join a thoracic surgical group. In 1991, Burt joined the Associates in Cardio-Thoracic Surgery PC. Since then he provided considerable leadership in his field, helping to develop cardiac services at Northwest Hospital, developing a case manager program at St. Joseph's Hospital, participating on the long-range planning committee for Carondelet cardiac services, co-developing the cardiac surgery case manager program at Tucson Medical Center, and serving as a consultant for HCA-Columbia in cardiac surgery. He served as a cardiovascular consultant to HSAG (the quality assurance arm of Medicare) on the statewide CABG (coronary artery bypass graft) procedure. Burt is board certified in thoracic surgery and general surgery and is a Fellow in the American College of Cardiology, Surgeons, and Chest Surgeons. He has served in numerous leadership roles in our community and has numerous accolades. He has retired from surgery but remains very active.
Burt is married to Melanie and they have three children: Lisa, Kevin, and Kerri and four grandchildren (8,7,5, and 2) with another on the way. With such a busy life and career, Burt still found time to join the Rotary Club of Tucson in 1998, sponsored by Rich Flynn. Knowing as much as he does about heart health, Burt works out faithfully and is a regular tennis player. So if you ever wondered where Kerri learned about focus and discipline, you can just look to her parents who were great examples for Kerri and her siblings!
Thank you to all Rotarians who have responded to the recent annual mailing from The Rotary Vocational Fund of Arizona entitled YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE. Through the Arizona State Tax Credit Program for The Working Poor, Rotary can provide financial assistance to individuals endeavoring to acquire, develop, or improve specific job skills and needs. It awards scholarships to students and graduates of vocational and trade schools and community colleges. Over the past four years, nineteen (19) individuals have been sponsored by the Rotary Club of Tucson and funded over $36,000. Our Club does MAKE A DIFFERENCE.
Please consider your year end contribution to TRVFA. You may go to www.trvfa.org
for further information or to make your contribution online.
I am always available for questions you may have regarding TRVFA.
President JONI CONDIT opened the meeting and introduced JIM RONSTADT for the invocation. The pledge and song were led by SONNY SOLOT, who reminded all to remember that 70 years ago this day Pearl Harbor was attacked and many were lost. He was accompanied by GARY HIRSCH on the piano. JESSE THORPE introduced guests and visiting Rotarians.
Birthday honorees were JIM DAVENPORT, who thanked his sponsor DICK HAMILL and was happy to be around at 74, and ALAN SCHROPE who first recognized the San Carlos participants and thanked his Sponsor JEFF RONSTADT and mentor WOODY BURR.
Past President JON WANG described the difference between Rotary Club of Tucson Foundation (RCTF) and The Rotary Foundation(TRF). TRF deals with Rotary projects internationally and the RCTF provides for local projects. When giving to TRF donations should be made on line if possible and to track donations to RCTF for tax purposes one should write a check. KATHY KITAGAWA gave the financials for RCTF and reported the fund has more than $1 million. The interest earned is used to support scholarships, Reading Seed, and various other community charities.
PAT LENNAN reported that the bell ringing is filled for Dec 10th however, substitutes are still needed. VIRGINIA LEAVITT encouraged members to sign up for the Holiday Mixer on December 21 and CHARLES MEAKER gave reminders about the Blood Drive on December 14.
Sergeant-at-Arms MATT BLAIR suggested folks that were chattering during reports pay $1 and managed to collect a few. The obviously experienced auctioneer corralled President JONI CONDIT into purchasing U of A vs Clemson basketball tickets and the Rowdy Table robustly introduced a first timer at the table, Executive Director, MARY LAUGHBAUM.
CINDY GODWIN, Godwin Marketing Consulting, introduced our speaker, Ed Beshore, Director, Catalina Sky Survey. Ed talked about Near Earth Objects and their relevance to our earth. The Catalina Sky Survey consists of three huge telescopes, two in the US and one in Australia, that allow surveyors to watch the sky closely for asteroids or Near Earth Objects(NEO) that might hit the earth. One can view the telescope at Mt Lemmon Summit. There are over 600,000 NEOs and 70% of them are discovered by Catalina. No other country is pro actively looking at the sky. NASA spends $4 mil per year to fund this project. One asteroid was found on Oct 6, 2008 300,000 miles from earth. The researcher identified its location, flight path, and speed to hit earth within 2 seconds of actual impact! Fortunately, the NEO was not big enough to do much damage. There are current studies to possibly change the trajectory of an NEO that approaches the earth. Most NEOs are not solid and Ed informed us that we have nothing to worry about any time soon.
Regent Fred DuVal currently serves as Chair of the Board of the Arizona Board of Regents. Additionally, he serves on the Board of the University of Arizona Medical Center-University Campus in Tucson.
DuVal served on the senior staff of Arizona Governor Bruce Babbitt from 1976 to 1988.
Thank you to all of you who donated more than $450 last week to "purchase" an El Tour racing shirt for me in order to reach our goal of raising $100,000 for this year's El Tour Ride To End Polio. Thank you especially to Gary Hirsch who helped to organize this wonderful event to honor the late Rotarian Mike Harris and to help in our fight to end polio in the world. Your generosity moved it over the goal that was met by the donations, fundraising, and riding from Rotarians from across the US and at least five other countries. Your contributions will help to further the fight against this most terrible disease that has been eradicated in all but three countries. I will cherish this jersey (and promise to wear it correctly!) and will always recall the generosity and enthusiam of Rotarians who worked together to do something important. Thank you!
I apologize for the late posting of our Tucsotarian this week but I didn't want to leave Mary, your outstanding Executive Director, holding the bag on the whole issue. My excuse for lateness is that my husband, Bill, and I had the wonderful privilege of traveling with 22 other Rotarians and their spouses to San Carlos, Mexico to host a Christmas party and distribute gifts to the school children of San Carlos. It was our first time to participate in ths very fun event but some of our group have been down multiple times. Roger and Jeri Harwell have been down seven times and Gary and Barbara Scheer can tell stories about their trips back to the early days when the late Herb Bloom went on the trip.
Alan and Lisa Schrope organized this trip for the fourth year in a row. Their careful and thorough planning made for a delightful and easy trip. Unfortunately, Lisa was unable to attend due to illness but Alan chaparoned us with the organization and skill of an expert travel guide. When we arrived at the Doubletree at 6:30 a.m. on Friday morning it was dark, cold, and rainy. We expected the same weather in San Carlos but we were all happy to arrive in the afternoon to clear blue skies. The great weather held for us all weekend. On Friday evening, the San Carlos Rotary Club invited us all to a Rotarian's home for a fun cocktail party and heavy hors'doeuvres. This Christmas trip is a long standing international collaboration between the San Carlos Rotary and RCoT. Our club collects cash donations and sends them to the San Carlos Club who adds their own donations and purchases a toy or game for each child in the school who are kindergarten to the sixth grade. Preschool children were each given a toy truck or a stuffed animal. Our members also made packages of beans and rice which we gave to the parents when the party was over.
The children were dressed in holiday outfits and danced for us to Christmas songs. After the entertainment, Rotarians and their spouses from both clubs served all of the school children and their families lunch. Then the children lined up to give each one of the Tucson Rotarians and their spouses a brightly wrapped handmade Christmas gift. I received a beautiful hand-crocheted black beret and scarf from a beaming but shy young boy. The spirit of Rotary and international friendship was radiating brilliantly in the smiles on all of our faces.
In addition to the main purpose of our Rotary weekend, our group enjoyed a variety of fun lunches and dinners. We each pay our own way for our roundtrip bus trip, the hotel room at Marinaterra Hotel (which was very nice) and for our meals. Many enjoyed a Saturday sunset cruise on a boat while the rest of us sat next to the marina enjoying the view and a margarita. As we returned home on our tour bus, we watched the movie "Christmas Vacation" with Chevy Chase, laughing and remarking what a wonderful holiday weekend we all had. Thank you to all who donated to the fund that allows the children in San Carlos to have a Christmas present and party and especially to Alan and Lisa Schrope who worked so hard to coordinate and organize this effort.
Ann Lancerogrew up in a military family and attended college at ASU graduating with an RN. She later earned a masters in nursing. After college she worked as a nurse educator, a director of nurses, and an RN Case Manager working in South Carolina, Texas, Newport Beach, and eventually Phoenix where she met her husband, Lou, who was doing his residency in cardiology at the same hospital where Ann also worked. Ann and Lou moved to Tucson where Ann worked as a Case Manager in the cardiac ICU unit at Carondelet and Lou joined Pima Cardiology. They have two daughters: Marcy who is married and has two children and lives in South Lake Tahoe; and Katya who is in law school at Boston College.
After September 11, 2001, Ann left nursing to become a realtor, working for Caldwell Banker at 2890 E. Skyline Rd, representing clients all over Tucson. No doubt she found their own beautiful home in the foothills which some of us were able to appreciate when Ann hosted a recent home hospitaltiy for a number of our club members. Ann joined the Rotary Club of Tucson in January of this year. Ann participated in the STAR training, has served as a greeter, and has already been a Mystery Editor. Her sponsor was Alan Rogers.
When they aren't working, the Lanceros love to go sailing. They've sailed in the Carribean, the Adriatic Sea, and the Sea of Cortez, to name a few. Lou, along with several friends, purchased a 30 foot sailboat last year that they moor in the San Carlos Marina. Lou and Ann, along with their engaging and knowledgeable skipper, Carlos, took two groups of us sailing in San Carlos Bay this past Sunday. Quite a memorable first for some of us who had never been sailing.
President JONI
CONDIT opened the meeting and introduced TED KIRACOFE for the invocation.The pledge and song were led by DON
ROLLINGS, accompanied by GARY GETHMANN on the piano.
GERRY
HALLOWELL introduced guests and visiting Rotarians.
Birthday honorees
were TODD ACKERMAN, who thanked his sponsor DAN MCEVOY, and mentioned close
friend RICHARD SCHWARTZ, and JESSE THORPE, noting his AARP eligibility and
thanking JIM SUMWALT for introducing him to Rotary, as well as JIM RONSTADT and
mentor CHUCK SAWYER.
TED FORSBERG
introduced new member KEITH COBB, the owner of Cobb Realty, who retired from
the Air Force after a long and highly decorated career, including the award of
a Bronze Star.
GARY HIRSCH
reported on Rotary’s participation in El Tour de Tucson.With the contribution of $400 by lunch
attendees to purchase an El Tour jersey for PRESIDENT JONI, Rotarians reached
the target of raising $100,000 for Polio Plus and to honor longtime Tucson
Rotarian MIKE HARRIS, who passed away earlier this year. A total of $11,000 was
raised by RCOT members who rode in El Tour.
PAT LENNAN
and LEE AITKEN reported needing 11 volunteers as backups for Salvation Army
bell-ringing on December 10; VIRGINIA LEAVITT gave reminders about the Blood
Drive on December 14 and the Holiday Mixer on December 21; Past President JON
WANG announced on behalf of the “Cardiology and Orthopedic Committee” that our
relay team for the Tucson Marathon is complete and includes JON, KENT
LAUGHBAUM, DANIELLE BAILLIERE, and WAYNE PEATE.
Sergeant-at-arms
MATT BLAIR suggested a fine for PAULINE HECHLER, whose photo appeared on the
cover of the Writ, the publication of the Pima County Bar Association, in
connection with a fundraising drive for the Food Bank by Lawyers Against
Hunger.CAROLINE EMERINE explained the
service of the Food Bank for MATT’s benefit, noting that 1 in 4 children in
Pima County goes to bed hungry each night.MATT also auctioned a spiffy NACAR jacket donated by CARMEN BERMUDEZ.
DOT KRET
introduced our speaker, Pima County Attorney Barbara LaWall.Barbara talked about a recent study of
Arizona’s prison population in order to dispel the “myth” that most of the
inmates are non-violent first offenders.Barbara said the study shows that 94% of the prison population are
violent or repeat offenders, and less than 6 percent can be characterized as
non-violent first offenders.Even the 6
percent are not really first time offenders, because it is only after three
arrests and convictions that drug possession offenders are incarcerated.
The Catalina Sky Survey (CSS) is part of a NASA-supported program to inventory the largest asteroids that could be a threat to the Earth. With two telescopes in Arizona and one at Siding Spring, Australia, CSS has been operating since late 2004, and is the current discovery leader, finding about 70 percent of all new NEOs in each of the past five years.
Club member
KEN LIGHT is President and CEO of the Jewish Community Center. Ken
has been a member since September 1991.
The
Tucson Jewish Community Center is a not-for-profit social service institution that has
been meeting the needs of Tucsonans since 1949. While we are a Jewish
institution, we are not a religious organization, seeking instead to meet the
needs of both the Jewish and general community with social, cultural,
educational, and recreational services.
We begin
with 6 week old infants in a childcare/preschool serving approximately 350
children under the age of 5, and continue with after school care, summer camp,
services for adults, media arts, and arts and culture. We have a full-day
program for young adults with special needs and a fully inclusive special needs
component for children in preschool, after school and summer camp programs as
well. Completing our array of services is a comprehensive sports and
wellness department with over 100 classes/week and an equal number of teams involved
in league play for kids and adults. The facilities provide programming in
fitness, basketball, tennis, racquetball/squash, and aquatic areas with swim
teams, lessons, and a Masters program as well. Rounding out the
facilities is a splash park for kids, ball fields, and a newly established
sculpture garden. Membership is open to all with scholarships available
for those unable to afford the full cost of services. (Over $550,000
annually is given away in financial assistance).
Membership
rates vary by category and range from $37/mo for a teen to $61/mo for adult
individual to $103/mo for a Family. These rates are generally
all-inclusive with the exception of child care or summer day camp or
league/lesson fee.
Thank a Tucsotarian Sponsor - Ken Light (Tucson Jewish Community Center)
Please keep your fellow Rotarians in your thoughts, prayers and close to your heart as they continue through a difficult time: Clem Leslie, Gib Raymond and his wife Trisha, and Honorary member George Hawke.
President JONI
CONDIT opened the meeting and introduced PAULINE HECHLER for the
invocation. The pledge and song were
led by BILL COZINE, who demonstrated his harmonizing abilities.
BOBBY LARSON introduced
guests and visiting Rotarians, including District Governor MICHAEL DRAKE, who
thanked RCOT for hosting the recent district conference. He singled out a number of members, especially
conference chair BOB ERNSTEIN.
Birthday kids
were JANIS COTTON, who said what a wonderful and welcoming club this is, particularly noting SID HIRSH with whom she attended Tucson High, and BRUCE
TUNZE, who thanked his sponsor LESLIE GALLOWAY and mentor JIM MURPHY.
Announcements
included LARRY PETH, who thanked the club leadership, particularly BOB LOGAN
and new member SALLY MONTAGNE, for supporting the solar lighting project in
Tanzania, and LARRY pledged another $1,000 to the project; PAT LENNAN and LEE
AITKEN reminded us that volunteers are still needed for Salvation Army
bell-ringing on December 10; TOM ANDREWS reminded us of the hike on Saturday,
Nov. 26, at Sabino Canyon; JOE NEVIN thanked members for supporting the
Goodwill Closet Cleaning Day; JON WANG asked for volunteers to join him and
KENT LAUGHBAUM on our relay team for the Tucson Marathon on December 11;
CHARLIE MINKER promoted the blood drive on December 14; and GIB RAYMOND thanked
club members for their “service above self” to him and his wife Tricia as she
is being treated for a brain tumor.
Paul Harris
fellows introduced by Past President CHARLOTTE HARRIS were RICK ROSE; TOM
MCQUILLEN and his parents Michael and Louise; CLIFF BOWMAN and his wife
Kathleen (CHARLOTTE’s daughter), and their son Nick; JIM MURPHY and his
daughters Michelle and Tama; and DICK KOLASA’s wife Sandy and daughters
Caroline and Christie.
BOB LOGAN entertained us with a talk about his
experiences coaching professional football in Italy in the 1980s.
If you don't have enough to do during this holiday season, the Rotary Club of Tucson has plenty to keep you busy! Here are just a few things that members can choose to do when you're tired to addressing Christmas cards, going to holiday parties, shopping and more shopping, or just trying to avoid eating all of the fattening foods that are available:
This coming Friday nearly forty RCoT Rotarians and their signifcant others are headed to San Carlos, Sonora this to help give out toys and food to school children and their parents. This will be the twenty-third consecutive years that our club has participated with the San Carlos Rotary club in an international holiday event. For those who have gone on this trip before, it is both memorable and fun to see the young kids open the only gifts they will receive this season.
On the following Saturday, December 10th, members will be ringing the bells to collect donations in the red kettles throughout Tucson for the Salavation Army to help families in this holiday season. If you are interested in ringing for a two-hour stint, just see Patrick Lennan or Lee Aitken or sign up on Clubrunner. It is a short time frame but one that allows the ringer to interact closely with all age groups who enjoy putting their change and sometimes large checks in the kettles.
Members can donate blood during our meeting on December 14th to the Red Cross. There is always a need for blood during this time of year so please consider being a donor. You could save a life in the process.
On Wednesday, December 21st, we will substitute an evening holiday mixer for our regular meeting to be held at the Windmill Inn next to Vivace's in St. Phillips Plaza from 5-7 p.m.. Please sign up this week either on our website or at the meeting. It is no cost to members and the cost for a guest is only $20. This will be a light dinner with a no-host bar. RSVP's are required by 5 p.m. Friday, December 16th. Don't miss it as it will be another fun event!
So, if you want an opportunity to connect with your fellow members and to make a difference in your community, the Rotary Club of Tucson has a lot of options!
Last Saturday, November 26th, seven RCoT members and five guests hiked the West Fork of the Sabino Canyon Trail up to Hutch's Pool. The day was perfect, with clear skies, cool temps and light winds, and the trail was just strenuous enough to require a few huffs and puffs near the start. We rode the Sabino Canyon Tram to and from the Trailhead, and whistled at RCOT Iron Man Kent Laughbaum, who had decided to jog the extra four miles (each way) of the Tram ride. Hutch's Pool was beautiful with clear, deep water. It was all we could do to resist the urge to jump in. Well, maybe next time . . .
While hopefully all of our members enjoyed a plentiful Thanksgiving dinner, we don't have far to look to find those in our community who are not so fortunate and have little to eat during this holiday season. Our local Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona is down 1,000,000 pounds of food this fiscal year due to the devastating effects of the hard freeze during this past year which resulted in a reduction of surplus food from the U.S. Dept. of Agriculture and a reduction of produce from Mexico. Because of this, the food bank is in desperate need of donations of food and cash donations which will allow additional food to be purchased.
Our Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona is currently distributing 30,000 emergency food boxes a month, through a network of five branch banks and more than sixty agencies and faith-based organizations. With the help of hundreds of volunteers, who greet families, check them in, sort donated food and build food boxex, and with the help of about 200 agency partners, this food is distributed to over 200,000 people in need every month. For every dollar donated, the Food Bank can distribute $9.50 worth of food.
The Food Bank now also includes Caridad Community Kitchen, which provides lunches and dinners to people at six locations. These people stand in line for sandwiches and hot meals. Many are homeless and many are families with little ones. For members interested in helping our Community Food Bank, consider bringing either canned food or a check to the Community Food Bank of So. Az. to any of our next three meetings on November 30th, December 7th or 14th. There will be a basket as members come in to collect checks. Thanks so much for any help you can give.
Caroline Emerine and Marcia Krumwiede, RCOT Director of Community Charities, have both been instrumental leading our club in support of the Community Food Bank.
Over the years a number of myths have developed concerning who is incarcerated in our prisons. It is claimed that too many low level
non-dangerous offenders are in incarcerated prison, for too long and at too great a cost. These myths, often perpetuated by the media, have resulted in a movement which has recently gained momentum to reform sentencing and release prisoners early. Pima County Attorney Barbara LaWall discusses who's really in our prisons: myth versus reality.
Mike shared that he was interested in joining a community service club here in Tucson in order to give back to the community where he lives and works. Mike Schulte, a new client of DeVries, suggested that they attend a club meeting together. Mike DeVries says that best part of being in RCoT is that there are so many good Rotarians that volunteer to join in the many club's projects and it has been a great way to meet many new people along the way.
Mike, like many of us, is a transplant to Tucson. He was born in Rochester, New York as one of seven children. His family moved here in 1973 where Mike attended CDO High School, graduating in 1977. He and fellow Rotary member Jesse Thorpe were responsible for holding down the bench on the state championship basketball team at CDO as seniors. Mike attended NAU for his first couple of years after which he transferred to Midwestern State University in Wichita Texas where he completed his accounting degree.
Mike has one son, Jon, who recently graduated from law school and is here in Tucson studying for the Arizona bar exam. Mike worked for 25 years in Texas where he became a CPA and was a partner in an accounting firm there. He moved back to 2007 to be closer to family and became a parter in the CPA firm of DeVries CPA's of Arizona, started by his older sister Mari. The firm specializes in non-profit entities performing audits and preparing income tax returns. Mike is the partner in charge of the tax practice for the firm He just joined Rotary in January 2011 but has considerable service club experience serving in both the Lions Club and two terms as president of the Henrietta Kiwanis Club.
Yes, Car Show!!! Our annual car show requires year-round planning which has already begun. The 2012 entry form has been updated and revised with the help of DAVID PASHKOW, TOM STRASBURG, ARNIE JACOBSEN, and DREW and KANDIE VACTOR. The new entry form will be ready to hand out at car shows and for on-line entries the middle of January 2012.
Every year we strive to make our show even better. We are reviewing the excellent suggestions for improvements provided by our 2011 Team Leaders, and a web-designed questionnaire will go out within the next week to our 2011 car show entrants to get their feedback.
CINDY GODWIN has been working on improving the car on-line entry process (changing to different software) which will allow us to offer more purchase options in a better format. She is also working with MATT BLAIR to update our old logo and the new branding design so that they will not be date sensitive.
The Community Charities committee is already working on a new grant process for future funding of our car show proceeds so that the recipient of the other half of our proceeds can be identified before the show. This allows us to promote our show for specific causes and creates a partnership with the recipient so that they can help us with show volunteers and promotion.
MIKE ANDERSON is in the process of selling our 2011 raffle Corvette and looking for an even better raffle car for 2012.
Team Leaders are being identified with the goal of having our Organizational Chart done by January 2012. Don't miss a chance to share your expertise! If you are interested in stepping up to be a Team Leader, please contact your 2012 TCCS co-chairs MARIANNE FREITAS or TOM STRASBURG.
Our
meeting was brought to order by President JONI at 12:00 noon and then we all
got down to the business of this remarkable ROTARY CLUB. An appropriate
invocation was delivered by PAT ZUMBUSCH, who gave us all much to think
about. CRISSY PERHAM led us in the Pledge to our flag and with a stirring
presentation of “My Country Tis of Thee.” GARY GETHMANN tickled the
ivories and as always helped us with our song. KEN LIGHT stepped up and
introduced our guests and visiting Rotarians with some clever remarks.
Birthday Rotarians had a one minute opportunity to acknowledge their special
days. These Rotarians with their comments were MARIANNE FREITAS, MARGARET HIGGINS,
JONATHAN MARTIN and SONNY SOLOT. Jonathan stated that he will be leaving
Tucson in early 2012; he will be missed. Marianne, next year’s Chairperson of
our Car Show, is in the early stages of laying the groundwork for the 2012 Car
Show. As our Immediate Past President, Marianne
continues with her activities on behalf of our Club. Margaret reflected on her deep appreciation as member of our Club. SONNY SOLOT delivered
an amusing story about his collection of rent in one of the Barrios of Tucson’s
downtown. LARRY ADAMSON introduced GUY FERRO as our newest member with an
unusual presentation. We all know how Guy spells his name. Welcome to
GUY, a Tucson native.
TOM
ANDREWS announced that there will be Rotary hike a week from Saturday in Sabino
Canyon. We were reminded that the San Carlos project needs additional
participants who always add a new dimension to Christmas for the children of
San Carlos. Pie throwers BOB LOGAN, DARRELL STEWART and ALAN ROGERS were
responsible for raising more than $600. Their looks were much improved
with delicious pies on their faces.
JIM
LUBINSKI introduced the program by “Eegee’s." Robert Jensen and
Dominick Scala of “Eegee’s” presented an interesting program regarding the
history and plans for the future of this Tucson restaurant. There are 23
locations with 625 employees in this Tucson business that began in 1971 at
Speedway near Craycroft Road. “Eegee’s” community involvement is so
wonderful. We existed the meeting with an “Eegee,” compliments of
our speakers.
President Joni helped
Toast to our Veterans before we
adjourned.
A few years ago, noted writer John Grisham wrote a wonderful book called “Playing for Pizza”. The book was a fictional work, and it told the story of a broken down NFL player having to play one more year in the Italian football league.While the Grisham book is fiction, the true story is there are a number of stories like this being played out every year in Italy.In fact, believe it or not,
This past weekend had lots of surprises and interesting encounters. My 22 year-old nephew, Jake Merry, signed up at the last minute and placed 106th in the race, just 14 minutes behind the winner and beating the time of the winning female. We were very proud of him. I volunteered to work our El Tour Aid Station at Tangerine near I-10 and had to drive 100 minutes each way just to get there from my far northeast home. It proved to be well worth the effort as I met so many wonderful people, both riders and volunteers at the Aid station. The first person I saw was Charlotte Harris and her daugher, Kathleen, busy mixing up jars of cranberry flavored electrolyte powder and water to give the riders who stopped at the Aid station. Twenty or so Rotarians and family members were working the 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. shift. We each quietly figured out what we could do to help as the riders began to come through in increasingly greater numbers. I missed the front runners by just a bit as learned that this group had a police escort to ensure that they could safely proceed down the street without being impeded by cars.
A second surprise I had upon arriving was that I quickly saw three of the Middle East GSE team members: Magued Anis, the leader and architect-turned-jeweler, Zaid Altheeb, Internal Medicine physician from Jordan, and Heba Abueinaser of Egypt. Two of their team members were riding in El Tour. I had the opportunity to talk with Zaid about their experiences thus far and learned that their team had recently spent time in Sierra Vista and spent three days on a beautiful ranch in Sonoita. They've driven to Yuma to visit clubs there. As he was sharing his experiences, an athletic well-built African American guy in a silver and black jersey rode up in a matching black and silver bike. I offered to hold his bike while he and the woman he was riding with got an Eegees and some healthy snacks to eat. When he returned for his bike, I said to the cyclist, "how would you like to have your photo taken with this physician from Jordan? You could become famous when he shares it with his friends in Jordan" The cyclist thought that was pretty funny and said to his riding partner, "Did you hear that, I'd become famous! Ha! Ha!" I thought the reaction was a bit odd, but he obligingly had his photo taken with Zaid and me by our Rotarian photographer. They got on their bicycles and took off. Afterwards, Meg Weesner, GSE Leader and Past President of the Cienega (Vail) Rotary Club here in Tucson, said to me that she'd heard that Barry Bonds, former baseball great, and Bill Walton, famous basketball star, were supposed to be riding in the El Tour. She and I wondered if that could have been Barry Bonds? We goggled him on her phone and decided "no, probably not." In Sunday morning's Arizona Daily Star, in the special section on the race, there was the photo of Barry Bonds and his cousin. Sure enough, we had our photo taken with Barry Bonds.
Other fun things happened as the day progressed. Jim Wright, Green Valley dentist and former Rotarian, rode up to take a break. I held his bike and then looked up to see a small black furry dog hanging over his shoulder. His dog had on goggles and a small bike helmet made from a red whiffle ball that was cut in half! His dog rides on Jim's shoulder every Saturday morning for 30 miles. During the El Tour, he would be riding for twice that distance! The dog was probably the most popular rider in the Tour! Magued, GSE Team leader, was so taken by the dog that he took a number of photos. When asked, Magued said that he has taken over 4,000 photos so far on their trip!
Best of all, during the day a number of Rotarians came riding up to take a break wearing their End Polio jerseys. Some of them came from great distances to participate in the ride. Rotarians who didn't stop were cheered from the sidelines by all of the volunteers. I talked with Darrell Stewart who rode in the race. On Sunday morning, I tried to go through the six pages of tiny print in the Star to underline every Rotarian I could find. To all who participated in the race, you have the thanks of all of us for riding to end polio and raising significant dollars in the process. Last week, at our meeting, the fun pie skit raised $650 towards the End Polio Ride. To those who volunteered or donated to sponsor a rider, thanks to all of you as well for helping to close that gap to end a terrible disease. Thank you to all.
Your fellow member Pauline Hechler is the Chief Development Officer of the Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona which serves Pima, Cochise, Graham, Greenlee, and Santa Cruz counties. She and her husband, Gene, moved to Tucson from Phoenix in 2002. Pauline's first job was as the director of development at St. Gregory College Prep. She moved to Phoenix and spent fourteen years in development, first at the Arizona Community Foundation, then Ballet Arizona, and from 1994-2001 at Scottsdale Healthcare Foundation, as the Vice President of Major Gifts.
Pauline is responsible for raising $8.6 million this year, plus capital and legacy gifts, as well as overseeing communications and marketing. Pauline points out that she is assisted in this goal by nine very capable staff, including Jack Parris, who is the Food Bank's Public Relations Manager.
Pauline has been married to Gene Hechler for ten years. Between them, they have five kids and three young grandsons. Pauline and Gene own Silverado Technologies, a computer networking and consulting business, which Gene runs. They enjoy hiking and fishing and have a new (to them) small travel trailer, which they plan to take all over Arizona. Pauline also enjoys yoga, gardening, and is addicted to Facebook. She has been a member of our club for 6 years and served as Club Secretary during 2009-2011.
Our regular meeting on December 21st will be replaced with an evening holiday party from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Windmill Suites next to Vivace's in St. Phillip's Plaza at 4250 N. Campbell Avenue, the same place we held our holiday party last year. This will be a great time to just relax and socialize with your fellow Roltarians! Dinner will be catered by Vivace's again this year, consisting of heavy appetizers and a no-host cash bar. Come when you can and stay as long as you like.
There is no charge to members, and only $20 per guest. We will get it set up on our website and signups will be available starting this week at Wednesday's meeting. RSVP's will be needed by Friday, December 16th by a 5 p.m. cutoff.
When: Wednesday, December 21st, 5 - 7 p.m.
Where: Windmill Suites, 4250 N. Campbell Ave. at St Phillip's Plaza. Please park in the lot south of the hotel.
Cost: No charge to members; $20 per guest; Cash Bar.
Saturday was a beautiful day in Tucson and more than 9,000 cyclists rode in this year's El Tour de Tucson ride. Rotary members played an important role in this year's El Tour, riding in either the 111 mile, 85 mile, 60 mile, or 42 mile races this past Saturday to raise more than $90,000 towards the End Polio crusade. For Rotarians, this ride was completed in honor of Rotarian Michael Harris, the beloved husband of our Assistant Governor and Past President Charlotte who passed away in March of this year. Charlotte and her family all took an active role in the race this year, either riding (Cliff and Nicholas Bowman and Chris and Tim Harris) or working the Aid station (daughter, Kathleen Bowman, and Charlotte). A number of Rotarians volunteered to work at the Tangerine Road near I-10 El Tour Aid station, holding bicycles, filling water bottles, and handing out snacks to riders who still had 28 miles to ride. Our Middle East GSE team members also participated in the El Tour. Members Ali and Sophia each rode in the race while the other members worked the Aid Station.
Lifelong Directors of Operations Dominick Scala and Robert Jensen present a comprehensive overview of the iconic Tucson fast food company. Their thirty plus years of experience at Eegee's gives an insider's view of Robert Greenberg and Ed Irving's creation as one of Tucson's most loved companies. Their journey will take you from two college buddy's dreams to the new vision of current owners "The O' Connor Family."
As we head into the busy holiday season I'd like to take a moment to express my appreciation and awe for the special talents and contributions of the individual and collective efforts of our members. As this year's President, I am acutely aware of how many requests we make from both the podium and the meeting floor for your monetary contributions and donations of your time. I fear that for some of our members, especially those who are still so busy raising young families and working so hard in their jobs, the requests may feel overwhelming. This is not the intention nor is it necessary that everyone contribute to every Rotary project or event.
With more than 200 members, it is natural and appropriate that our club offer a diverse range of opportunities that will meet each member's interests and goals. Some may criticize that we have too many club committees but it seems that there are always sufficient volunteers to address the needs we seek to meet. The Rotary Club of Tucson has a long history of helping our community in a variety of ways. It is the collective efforts of many contributing the hours they can and the dollars they can, that allows our club to make a difference in so many ways. But it is important to note, that each member can only do so much in a given year and in some years, this may be more or less than others.
Some of our members can donate more time than money while some of our members are at a point in their lives when they can write a check to support a project but no longer have the energy to volunteer. The friendships that have been built over the years are as important as the charitable good works that the club does. These friendships have often been fostered in trusted business relationships that have grown out of knowing that Rotarians embrace the four-way test and seek to make the world a better place for all. So, thank you for all that you each do, in your own way to make our club a special one and know that your presence and participation is valued.
Lisa Schnebly Heidinger, a Tucson native, has written a new book, "Arizona - 100 Years Grand", the official book of Arizona's upcoming centennial that we will celebrate on February 14th, 2012. She is contributing 20% of her sales proceeds towards the centennial celebration. As the recent closing speaker at our District Conference, Lisa shared that the date of our statehood was selected because it was exactly 50 years after Arizona became a territory. Our territory was initially a Confederate territory. She points out that Arizona is unlike any other place. Arizonans are typically not native because so many of us have migrated from other places and because of this, there is no protypical person. Often, Arizonans don't play well with others. She points out that Arizonans are often independent types with a lot of diversity.
The women of Arizona have been strong and capable like Isabella Greenway, who after her second husband's untimely death, ran a 130,000 acre ranch in Williams Arizona,and became the owner and operator of the Gilpin Airlines. In 1930 she was started the Arizona Inn and then served as the sole representative to the US Congress in 1932-1936. Heidinger pointed out that the women had to be strong because they often had to run the ranches while their husbands were cowboying out on the range. Cowboys influenced the development of Arizona and the type of people that settled here. She shared that her own grandmother was Sedona Arabella Miller Schnebly, for which the beautiful red rock town south of Oak Creek Canyon is named. Sedona was married to the town's first postmaster and was known for her hospitality and strong work ethic.
The tapestry of life is a theme that Lisa Schnebly weaves together in her book and she uses their stories to illustrate the history of our wonderful state. She points out that history is not nearly as precise or fixed as one might think....it is a very porous fabric. History truths may vary, such as the stories of Tombsone. No one really knows for certain if the stories about the gunfight at the OK Corral involving the Earps, Doc Holiday, the Clantons, and the McLaury's are accurate. All we know is what has been handed down through the years. With this example, she urged each of us to write down our stories to share them with our children, our nephew and nieces, and grandchildren so these stories will not be lost.
Your Salvation Army Bell Ringing Co-Captains, Pat Lennan and Lee Aitken, are feeling pretty stressed at the moment! We only have a bit more than 40 signed up for the many two-hour shifts that we have committed to the Salvation Army to ring the bells for the holiday kettles around town on December 10th! We need to cover about 140 more two-hour shifts around town! Two hours goes by in a flash, or perhaps a ding, and you can sign up to do it with a buddy from Rotary, or your spouse or family member.
It is super easy this year to sign up if you get your Tucsotarian online on the computer. Just get to the home page and scroll down and on the left hand side, you'll see the Salvation Army Bell Ringing written. Click on this. Next look for the word "Volunteers" and click on this. The page for signing up will come up and as you scroll down, you can see all of the many locations and all of the open slots not yet filled. Pick your location and open time slot and sign up! Feel free to sign up for more than one two hour slot!
If you have trouble with the online signup or you'd prefer to do it the good old-fashioned way, please just talk to Lee Aitken or Pat Lennan this week at the meeting or give them a call. They'll do whatever they can to help get you lined up to ring that bell! It is lots of fun and our club has been helping this charity for many years during the holidays. Thanks Everyone!
I've been thinking about ways to help our members learn more about one another and it has occurred to me that perhaps our very own Tucsotarian is one way to help with that! I'd like to start profiling a couple of members each week to help our new members know more about our long time members, and vice versa. So here are a few tidbits.....!
Nina Daldrup grew up in Tucson as the daughter of Rick Knipe, owner of precast concrete company. Nina worked in her dad's office while going to school. Her grandfather was a local architect named Fred Knipe. Dot Kret's dad, David Kret served in the Arizona state Senate and sponsored legislation that created our public kindergartens. Leslie Galloway's dad was Ed Galloway of Galloway Motors. Leslie always was interested in selling cars but instead she went to college, got her degree and now works for CBiz, a company that offers insurance, risk management and employee benefits to companies. Her step-brother, Steve Christy, took over the family car business which later because Steve Christy Chrysler Jeep.
Richard Bratt is a pretty avid fly fisherman when he isn't working as a CPA at Beach Fleishman or working on the financials for our club's Foundation. Jon Wang was a pool shark when he attended Princeton University long before he became an orthopedic surgeon. Mike Anderson and his wife, Susan, collect beautiful antique clocks from around the world which are featured throughout their lovely home. Don Shropshire worked as a manager for the Nabisco Corporation before becoming a hospital administrator at Tucson Medical Center for twenty-six years! His famous bow ties came about as a result of his ah ha moment while walking around the Nabisco plant when he realized that a regular tie could be a serious safety issue!
You may not know that Joe Pennington is not just a financial planner and car show chairman extraordinaire, but he is also one of the Arizona State Boxing Commissioners! Marcia Krumwiede was sponsored into our club in 2005 by her late grandfather and long time member, George Codd. Stu Goldman is quite the jazz officianato and plays the keyboards extremely well. David and Cookie Pashkow met on a blind date as did Marianne Freitas and her husband, Chuck. Jeff Ronstadt, son of Jim Ronstadt, was born and raised here in Tucson. He has been in the healthcare business for twenty years, working at Group Health Medical, Aetna, Partners Health Plans, and United Healthcare before opening his own insurance agency, Ronstadt Insurance in 2004. Jeff is a fifth generation Tucsonan!
Long before Jennifer Hoffman became the COO at Call One, she was an excellent high school basketball player. Her family is full of entrepreneurs who own small businesses here in Tucson and Jennifer is still a terrific athlete. Matt Blair, Director of Cirrus Visual Communications, played the didgeridoo around a campfire in 2009 to get his riding team, the Howsie Cows, pumped up to ride in the "24 hour Kona Bike Marathon". We have at least two Olympians (maybe more?) in our club: Hugh Thompson was once on our US Olympic Rowing team and Crissy Ahmann Perham earned two gold medals and a silver in the 1992 Barcelona Olympics. In 1942 at the age of 16, Sonny Solot became the youngest person in Arizona history to become a licensed real estate professional when he joined his father's real estate company. Because so many men were away in World War II, his dad needed a licensed real estate salesman to collect the rents for the rental properties so Sonny stepped up to do that. His long career in real estate and land appraisals has included teaching at the U of A for 24 years and being appointmented by Governors Jane Hull and Janet Napolitano to the State Land Department Board of Appeals.
I'd like to publish a more indepth article on one or two of our members weekly in our Tucsotarian, so if you are interested, please send me some information about you, your career, and your family to my email: jonicondit@gmail.com or please call me on my cell phone at 730-9169. I'd like to have some special "inside" information so share some of that as well! I promise not to embarrass you unless you want us to!
On schedule, PRESIDENT JONI CONDIT called our meeting to
order. MIKE ORCUTT gave the Invocation with emphasis on the 4-Way Test.
Having studied under the “Music Master SONNY SOLOT” DAN GUARE led the
Pledge and Song. He was accompanied at the piano by GARY GETHMANN.
Following an enjoyable lunch and table conversation, DARRELL STEWART, wearing
the latest in sports attire, introduced guests and visiting Rotarians.
Congratulations to birthday Rotarian JUDY KEAGY. MARIANNE FREITAS
gave an informative introduction of our new member SALLY MONTAGNE.----WELCOME
SALLY!!!! ROGER HARWELL highlighted the important accomplishments of the
Scholarship Committee. Over the last 70 years approximately $1,000,000 has been
awarded in scholarship support to deserving high school and college students. Car
Show Chairman JOE PENNINGTON introduced Car Show Raffle Winner Summer
Filtz. She elected to receive the $10,000. JOE NEVIN reminded us that
November 16, 2011 is Fall Rotary Clothes Closet Cleaning Day for Goodwill
Industries plus the NORMA PEAL Memorial Book Drive benefiting patients and
families at the University Hospital. New leaders PAT LENNAN and LEE AITKIN will
head the Salvation Army Bell Ringing on December 10, 2011. ALAN SCHROPE
requests that pledges for our San Carlos Project be completed by November 30,
2011. JIM LUBINSKI had the pleasure of announcing that Inside Tucson
Business has named JONI CONDIT in the 2011 issue of Women of Influence. We are
PROUD of our PRESIDENT JONI!!! NINA TRASOFF introduced our speaker Robert
Knight, Executive Director/CEO Tucson Museum of Art and Historic Block.
His informative talk “Who Shot Rock and Roll?” received active audience
participation. We voted for three new RCoT Directors for 2012-2014.
CHARLOTTE HARRIS announced the new Directors. They are TOM ANDREWS, CLIFF
BOWMAN and GARY HIRSCH. Congratulations to our new Directors.
PRESIDENT JONI closed the enthusiastic meeting with our traditional
Rotarian Toast.
Last Wednesday, our membership elected three new board members to serve our Club's Board for the two year term of 2012-2014. These three members are:
Tom Andrews: Tom joined our club in March 2003. His category is Transportation/Aviation Service and served as the Vice President of Operations at the Tucson Airport Authority prior to his retirement. Tom is a retired Air Force pilot and an engineering manager. He has been active in our club as the Enivironmental/Hiking Chair, the District 5500 Outbound Rotary Youth Exchange chair, the Programs Committee, Rotary Youth Exchange, and the San Carlos project. His sponsor was Billy Jo Varney.
Cliff Bowman: Cliff joined our club in 2008 and was sponsored by Assistant Governor, Charlotte Harris. He is an A-10 Instructor pilot with the Air Force, CAE. He is on the Board of Directors of Literacy Connects/Reading Seed. Cliff is a Robison Reading mentor. He has been active in helping the Posse, the Scholarship Cups, Guest and Visitor Introductions, the Salvation Army Bell Ringing, a Car Show Ticket Sales Team Leader, and will be a rider in the 2011 D5500 El Tour to End Polio Ride.
Gary Hirsch: Gary joined our club in 2008 and was sponsored by Past President Bob Shaff. Gary has a consulting business called Vistage International. He has been active as the Works Project Chair (including the Marshall Home for Men garden and the Norma Peal Library project). He is one of our pianists for the pledge and song committee. In 2010 and again this year, he is co-chairing the District 5500 El Tour to End Polio Ride committee and will be riding on November 19th.
These three board of directors will join Drew Vactor, Irene Decker, and Alan Schrope as the six directors serving next year when Jim Lubinski will be President. Jim will announce his selections for Secretary, Treasurer, and Sergeant at Arms before the end of the year. Please join me in congratulating your newly elected board members!
It is the time of year where we all come together to realize how fortunate we are and come to the assistance of those less fortunate than us. 29 Rotarians and friends are scheduled to go to San Carlos Dec. 2-5, 2011 and provide a Christmas party and festivities for the children and families of San Carlos, Mexico. This is our signature International Project and it has been in existence for over 20 years now. We still have more room on the bus for anybody interested in going, but we need to know as soon as possible.
At this point, I am asking for donations to be made to allow this project to continue. With each Rotarian committing to $30 we can make sure that we continue this fine tradition. Please consider adding your name and a donation amount on the sheet of paper on the table at our Rotary meeting this week.
At our recent monthly Area Presidents' Meeting I learned that the other clubs in our county are as busy as RCoT! All of the clubs are collaborating to help with the El Tour to End Polio Ride. If you haven't signed up to participate in one of the various rides, please consider volunteering to help sponsor a cyclist. We have a good number of riders in our club and you can contact Gary Hirsch to get a list of those members seeking donation sponsors. You can also find out if there is still a need for volunteers to work one of our Rotary booths to provider the cyclists with drinks and snacks.
There are several clubs working on a Habitat for Humanity Project. The Rincon and Casas Adobes club are jointly sponsoring a November 12th Work Day to build a home in collaboration with Habitat in the area of I-10 and Craycroft. Michael McDonald, CEO of Habitat for Humanity, has secured grant funds to subsize this project cost by 50%. This means that these two Rotary clubs can build a home for about $42,000. There may be more Habitat home projects for our local Rotary clubs coming later. We are considering participating in a similar Habitat for Humanity/Rotary project on April 28, 2012 which is being called "Rotarians at Work: a District-wide project day. There may be many other projects that day as well.
The Rotary Club of Green Valley is organizing their first Annual Scholarship Shootout, a four-person golf scramble on Saturday, December 10th at Canoa Ranch Golf Course starting at 9 a.m. with prizes/awards at noon.Registration and a continental breakfast are at 7:30 a.m. Contact Dick Roberts at (520) 648-5749 or email him at rrrgv@aol.com if you are interested in playing.
The Catalina Club is sponsoring a community-wide Rotaract Club. The club has a provisional status and have selected Amanda Jones as their president. They are seeking several more members so if you know of any young people, ages 18-30, who would enjoy getting started in Rotary, have them contact Sharon Chesser, President of the Catalina Club, or our Assistant Governor, Charlotte Harris.
Remember, the deadline for turning in your unsold Car Show Tickets without being charged for them is this Wednesday, November 9th. There will be a $25 penalty for not turning them in on time, but you won't be charged $5.00 per ticket for the unsold tickets if you turn them in by Wednesday per your Foundation Board. As of last week, we still had $10,000 worth of tickets not yet turned in or accounted for, so please help your team captain and either pay for the tickets or turn in your unsold tickets. Thanks!
If someone visited our club last week they might have the idea that The Rotary Club of Tucson has a lot going on! Even though we just finished up our fifth annual Tucson Classics Car Show, our club members are busy training and/or raising money for the El Tour Ride to End Polio on November 19th, collecting books and clothing to donate to the Norma Peal Library and Goodwill Industries, preparing to go on the 20th annual bus ride to San Carlos to give children a Christmas, and signing up to ring the Salvation Army collection bells on December 10th. There is never a dull moment and there is always a project or activity to which you can participate.
Your Membership Committee met last week to share ideas for recruiting new members and retaining our current members. While we've added six wonderful new members since July 1st, we've unfortunately lost twelve members who've resigned or passed away. You can help us turn this trend the other way. Consider why you joined our club and why you still belong. Long time member Dave Gallagher says he belongs to our Club because it gives him balance in life and allows him to give something back to his community. I agree with Dave. Rotary is bigger than any one member and as the old saying goes, the whole of our collective efforts is more than the sum of its parts. You make a huge difference in the world by being active in Rotary. Think about who you'd like to have as a member of our club. Sometimes all it takes is an ask.
A Rotarian from Medford, New Jersey, David Forward, has written a book about the first hundred years of Rotary International called "A Century Of Service" published in 2009. He was the keynote speaker on the first day of the District Conference Forward has captured all of the many small and large stories about the Rotarians who started Rotary and have made it perhaps the largest international philanthropic organization in the world. Forward writes that peeling back the years to find the origin of Rotary is like tracing back a river to its tributaries, which is fed by streams, that were fed by rivulets, all originated by an underground spring.
David Forward reminded us that while many Rotarians know that Paul Harris and three of his friends (Gus Loehr, Silvester Schiele, and Hiram Shorey) held the first Rotary meeting in Room 711 of the Unity Building on Dearborn Street in downtown Chicago on Thursday, February 22, 1905 very few know who the fifth Rotarian was. The fifth Rotarian was Harry Ruggles, who later became the fourth Rotary President and had perfect attendance for 54 years. Harry printed the first club directory and bulletin and started the tradition that is still active today, the tradition of singing together. So when we sing one of our patriotic songs this Wednesday after the pledge, you might think of Harry Ruggles. Rotary is successful because of the many members whose names we don't know who've led the way for all of us today.
In 1904 a rivulet started up within the Chicago Rotary club when several members wanted to expand Rotary into other communities beyond Chicago. The members split into two camps of red and blue and ultimately took a vote in which the red camp prevailed voting not to expand Rotary beyond the first club. Paul Harris was part of the blue minority. Not long after, member Manuel Munoz was transferred to a new job in San Francisco and Paul Harris privately suggested that Manuel start up a branch of Rotary. Manuel did so and Rotary subsequently expanded rapidly to other cities. And, as they say, the rest is history. It is not important that we know the names of all of these people, but it is important to note that ordinary Rotarians for the past century plus six years have been doing extraordinary things all over the world.
PRESIDENT
JONI CONDIT called our meeting to order and JACK PARRIS gave a good invocation.
Next up was GORDON SHAW to lead us in the pledge and “God Bless America”
accompanied on the piano by GARY HIRSCH. After being reminded to pass the
Scholarship Cups we enjoyed lunch and time to chat with our tablemates. Once we
got going again JAMES SUMWALT shared the sad news that club member HOWARD
HARPST had passed away over the weekend. His services are tentatively scheduled
for 11/11/11. JIM RONSTADT then took care of introducing guests, visiting
Rotarians and thanking BOB ERNSTEIN for all of his hard work chairing the
District Conference held last weekend and based on all of the applause we
agreed that he did a great job! JACK MAREK our lone b-day boy (and a Halloween
baby!!) was honored with a minute at the microphone where he also let us know
he’s celebrating his 54th Wedding Anniversary as well. Next we had MATT BLAIR
(working on his signature move of invading personal space and sniffing people
if they take too long on the microphone) lead us through a ton of
announcements: MARIANNE FREITAS went over the 2012-2014 Board Candidate’s, BOB
SHAFF and TOM STRASBURG turned over the Salvation Army Bell Ringing project to
PAT LENNAN and LEE AITKEN to get “kicked around.” PAT also awarded LEE the
Chicken Award for all of his work on the Chicken Dinner. GARY HIRSCH gave
us an update on El Tour, so far there are 81 cyclists and $41K in donations for
the First Annual Michael Harris Memorial Ride to End Polio team. ALAN SCHROPE
talked about the San Carlos Trip, ANN SEGAL and JOE NEVIN reminded us to clean
our closets and bring our books for Goodwill and Norma Peal book drive on
11/16. TOM ANDREWS talked about the Hiking Club, CLIFF BOWMAN let us know about
Literacy Connects Event on 11/15 and IRENE DECKER made a quick announcement
about the Membership Committee meeting. MATT then fined BOB LOGAN and MAGGIE
KOSINSKI. JOE PENNINGTON reminded those of us that haven’t already done so to turn
in unsold Car Show tickets. DAVID PASHKOW introduced our speaker Barbara Rogers
who gave a very interesting talk about her part in “Decorating the World’s
Largest Cruise Ship.” Pres JONI ended the meeting with a toast inspired by Matt
Jones, a 3 time cancer survivor who spoke at the District Conference.
Since
August 2005, Robert Knight has served as Executive Director and CEO of the
Tucson Museum of Art and Historic Block.
Founded in 1924, the museum is located downtown in the city’s historic
El Presidio district, which was once part of a walled fortress marking Tucson’s
settlement in the mid-1700s.
Two of these rather large, very nice and like-new turquoise-enameled tin containers were left at the Car Show along with a ladies navy blue shrug and an earring. If you have lost any of these items, please contact Marianne 299-8571.
On Saturday morning while many of us were still bumbling around at the Conference trying to wake up and sip our coffee, we were jarred into action by a most remarkable 33 year-old three-time cancer survivor who exudes vitality and love of life. Matt Jones shared with us that while still in college on 9/11/2002 he received a call from his doctor telling him that he had cancer. Surviving that first, then second, and then third diagnoses of cancer taught him lessons that have been life changing. Matt shared that one quote from the book "Think and Grow Rich" inspired him in his fight with cancer. The quote "Every adversity, failure, and setback carries with it a seed of equal or greater benefit." became his mantra of hope and inspiration. With every setback, Matt managed to tell himself that this was a seed of greater benefit.
Matt challenged us to consider the power of one person's vision to achieve a goal. He reminded us that Paul Harris, one man, had a vision to create Rotary and it is now a century later, the most powerful humanitarian organizaiton in the world. He suggested that we take manageable steps and keep moving towards our vision, our dream. Most importantly, he told us to check our attitude because it is our single biggest choice in life and can be the single biggest limitation in reaching our dream. Matt reminded us to have a sense of humor because stuff happens. Use your story, including your setbacks and failures, to give back to others through service. He said that someone else' s limited view of you doesn't have to become your vision.
Matt reminded us of the following: 1) that successful people do things that others only think about doing; 2) there is life and death in the power of the tongue and so we should be people who give compliments; and 3) our smile is a powerful gift, so use it. This marvelous young man quoted shared a poignant quote that is his personal favorite: "When asked "what thing about humanity surprises you the most?" the Dalai Lama answered: "Man...because he sacrifices his health in order to make money. Then he sacrifices money to recuperate his health. And then he is so anxious about the future that he does not enjoy the present; the result being that he does not live in the present or the future; he lives as if he is never going to die, and then dies having never really lived. "
For those of you who missed it, this past weekend (Friday through Sunday) more than 200 of your fellow Rotarians in District 5500 met to listen to several world class speakers while sharing a lunch on Friday, lunch and dinner on Saturday, and breakfast on Sunday. Jeff Nordensson commented from the podium, the District Conference is like being thirsty and being handed a firehose! We heard from and met both the Inbound GSE team from the Middle East and the Outbound GSE team members, learned first hand of the varied and impressive accomplishments of our District Ambassadorial scholars, and got to meet the vibrant group of high school exchange students. On Friday night we gathered to enjoy cocktails and hors d'oeuvres in the many district club hospitality suites representing different countries and cultures. Some rose early on Sunday to hike around Reid Park led by our member Tom Andrews. Our own Bob Ernstein was this year's Chair of the District Conference and as you might imagine it was first class in every way! He and his committee made sure that attendees enjoyed perhaps the best District Conference ever held in the District. Ginger Leavitt, your Club Secretary, helped to coordinate the contract with the Doubletree and to assure that the facilities, meals, and service met all of our needs. If you haven't attended a District Conference, you are missing a great opportunity to ignite or refuel your passion for what you as a Rotarian can do and the difference we all make together.
We heard from each of the six Inbound GSE members and they were an impressive, personable, and educated group from the countries of Bahrain, Lebanon, Egypt, Palestine, and Jordan. Their team leader, Magued Anis, is also from Egypt, and last year's club President of the Rotary Club of Alexandria. The five team members are all in their twenties and have professions ranging from global marketing, public relations and marketing, delivery planner for Europe and Aftica for Exxon Mobil, a landscape designer for the development and reconstruction of Beirut, and a physician from the King Hussein Cancer Center in Amman, Jordan. On Sunday morning, they all showed up in hot pink golf shirts so we couldn't miss them, and they each sat with a different table. They told us that they are having the time of their lives and thanked us all for making them feel so welcome and at home. We all realized that if more people could share this type of GSE experience, the world would be more peaceful.
Our Outbound GSE team, led by Hugh Thompson, is equally impressive and they will be leaving November 10th. They each have engaging personalities and a great desire to make a difference in the world. Angie Casarez put herself through school as a single parent, has a construction background, owned her own commercial cleaning business, and is now working to help other small businesses to obtain credit. Phoebe Milles, who declared herself a salsa dancing Eskimo, works for the Tucson Indian Center as their Wellness Director and wants to study other designs of health services in other countries. Andrea Gardner is the Adjustment Case Manager for a refugee resettlement organization here in Tucson. She is multi-lingual and a former Peace Corp volunteer and ultimately would like to work in the Middle Ease. Finally, Rome Hamner is an educator and musician. She teaches 8,000 kids a year to do Japanese drumming. She helped to found her performing group, the Odaiko Sonora Group, and also plays the Japanese flute and teaches tyco-team training. We anticipate that they will each have much to share when they return from their trip.
District Conference Celebrates Internationality of Rotary!
One of the terrific speakers we had the opportunity to hear at the District Conference was Cheryl Scott, the Chief Operating Officer of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. She has a very impressive background in global health programs and was previously the CEO of Group Health, an integrated health organization.
Bill and Melinda Gates formed their Foundation in 1999 when they heard that 500,000 children were dying annually from rotavirus. They didn't believe it at first but once they learned this was true, they donated $126 million to start the Foundation. In 2006 Warren Buffett pledged his Berkshire stock then worth $31 Billion. This created a corpus that generates an income of $3.5 to $4 Billion annually with a goal that by 2025, 90% of the world's children will be immunized against diseases including pneumonia, measles, mumps, encephalitis, and polio. In 2000 Ted Turner asked Bill Gates to support Rotary's polio effort. Bill's dad, Bill Sr., is a long time Rotarian and in 2007, polio became an explicit strategy for the Gates Foundation. In 2008 the formal partnership with Rotary was created. The Gates Foundation initially pledged a $10 Million match to spur on and energize the eradication efforts and has just pledged $40 million in new funding.
Cheryl talked about Rotary and the Gates Foundation combined efforts to eradicate polio. She shared that there has been dramatic progress since 1988 in this regard. At that time about 25 countries were still recording new cases of polio. This year we are down to four remaining countries, India, Nigeria, Pakistan, and Afghanistan. She thrilled the crowd when she shared that we are about three months away from declaring India free of polio! Much of recent success has come about due to the introduction in 2009 of the bivalent OPV vaccine. However, she reminded everyone that this last 1% will be the hardest 1% to achieve. Although only there were only 440 new cases recorded internationally in 2010, without vigilence and revaccination against the various types of polio, it can return. She shared one of her favorite and most applicable quotes by Nelson Mandela, "It always seems impossible until it gets done."
Keynote Speaker Cheryl Scott, COO of the Gates Foundation
Stuart Heal and his wife Adrienne were the official representatives for RI President Kalyan Banerjee at this year's District 5500 Conference. Stuart spoke at Friday's luncheon, again as the keynote speaker at Saturday night's dinner, and made some closing comments at Sunday's breakfast. He acknowledged that he had about 17 seconds to get his audience's attention and he did so with a wonderful wit, sense of humor, and that warm New Zealand accent. His District 9980 is easy to find in the RI Directory because it is the last one in the book! Stuart comments that we often forget while attending our own individual clubs that our Rotary surname is the word "International". He told us that joining Rotary was a life changing decision. RI has taken him out of his comfort zone and put him in a number of growth opportunities. He also reflected on how it has helped him to appreciate how lucky and privileged he and his family's lives are.
Stuart commented that this is an exciting time to be a Rotarian because there is such a great need in the world for our participation, values, and leadership. He requested on behalf of President Kalyan that we challenge ourselves to become more engaged and committed to Rotary. On Saturday night he talked at length about the elephants in the room, the long term traditions of Rotary and the generational divide that is preventing the recruitment of younger members. In our own District, our membership overall has declined about 200 members over the past five years. He suggested that we continue to focus on our core values of service, fellowship, diversity, integrity, and leadership.
Stuart Heal, RI Director from New Zealand Attends Our Conference
The Rotary Club of Tucson Foundation Board of Directors adopted the following policy: All outstanding raffle tickets for the Car Show can be returned and the Rotarian in possession of the tickets will not be billed for the face value of the tickets (as was communicated earlier). However, a $25 fee will be assessed for failure to return the tickets on or before October 22, 2011. All money for tickets sold should be turned in as soon as possible (no charge will be assessed for turning in the money in a timely fashion. Any tickets not returned will be billed to the Rotarian assigned the ticket(s) at $5.00 per ticket.
The Rotary Club of Tucson, Inc. Board of Directors set a deadline of November 9, 2011 for the return of all money and/or tickets. After that date, the Rotarian assigned the tickets will be billed. No one wants to bill you for the tickets. However, the tickets are the same as money and must be properly accounted for.
Joe Pennington, CFP, 2011 Tucson Classics Car Show Chairman
" I make paintings to transcend daily life and the six o’clock news, to evoke the sublime, to reaffirm the existence of beauty and the critical importance of cherishing the earth. I paint because the act of painting is direct; it is another truth—you make a mark and there it is, just you and this act of creation."
This year's outbound Group Study Exchange team will be led by non other than our own Past President Hugh Thompson. He and his team will be departing Tucson on November 11th and return on December 9th. This year's exchange is with District 2450 in the Middle East. The District 2450 inbound GSE members arrived in Tucson on October 23 and will participate in this weekend's District Conference held at the Doubletree. Hugh's group will be visiting Egypt, Jordan, the West Bank, and Bahrain. Like the Middle East team who is presently visiting our District 5500, Hugh's team will stay with Rotarians in their homes, visit local cultural and historic sites, and give presentations to area Rotary Clubs. The team hopes to have several vocational experiences in which team members spend a day with a Rotarian of their same profession. Our District has arranged similar visits for the inbound GSE team.
Outbound 2011 GSE Team Ready to Visit the Middle East!
We have six outstanding RCoT Board candidates for the upcoming election at our regular meeting on November 9th. Three of these candidates will serve as Directors for two years beginning with President-Elect Jim Lubinski's term on July 1, 2012. The candidates are Tom Andrews, Angela Baurley, Cliff Bowman, Gary Hirsch, Ellie Patterson and Darrell Stewart. Retiring Board members are Cheryl House, Marcia Krumwiede, and Bob Logan. Continuing for their second year of their Board terms are Irene Decker, Alan Schropeand Drew Vactor.
An abesentee ballot will be offered via e-mail for anyone unable to be present at the November 9th meeting. We thank all our candidates for their willingness to serve our club and hope you will all exercise your right to vote!
Rotary Club of Tucson members have an opportunity this week to earn two for one Paul Harris credits for $100 or more contributions to the El Tour/End Polio ride done this week online (www.rotaryd5500.org) before 10 a.m. this Friday, October 28. The idea is to teach people how to donate directly to RI online. Please print out the confirmation when you've completed this. If you don't know your account number, please email Charlotte Harris and she can email you back your RI account number. In addition, after the match is completed, our RCoT members will receive additional matching points for your donation. If you donate to El Tour/End Polio after this Friday at 10 a.m., but before November 19th, you will only receive matching points from our club. If you are already a Paul Harris Fellow, you can transfer points equal to the actual cash donation you make towards another person's PHF. You will also receive credit towards an additional Paul Harris for yourself, i.e. PHF+1 or more depending on your previous donations. You can also contact Rotary International's Contact Center at Contact.Center@rotary.org or call (866) 976-8279 if you have questions about the double recognition promotion from RI. Help our club meet its PolioPlus goal and be a part of Rotary's signature effort to eradicate polio in the world!
Double Points For Paul Harris Donations This Week Only!
The
October 19 meeting was called to order by PRESIDENT JONI sometime around noon. As JIM RONSTADT neglected to appear to give
the invocation, JOHN MCCALEB volunteered on the promise of Joni’s dessert. ERNIE MINCHELLA led the pledge and God Bless
America sans piano as GARY HIRSCH was also among the missing. Joni then led a moment of silence in honor of
former long-time member, Warren Grosetta.
After
introducing guests and visiting Rotarians, DARRELL STEWART announced the
formation of the Membership Preservation Committee, supposedly an effort to buy
a defibrillator for the club, but actually a thinly disguised excuse to drink
more wine.
Birthdays
were celebrated by RICK ROSE, DAVE GALLAHER, KARL MEYER and Pres. Joni.
Past
Pres. MARIANNE FREITAS then announced the candidates for the Board. They are: GARY HIRSCH; DARRELL STEWART; ELLIE
PATTERSON; CLIFF BOWMAN; ANGELA BAURLEY; and TOM ANDREWS.
Announcements
included a plea for attendance at the District Conference, a reminder of the
upcoming book and clothing drive and a fabulous donation of $1250 from the San
Carlos Cantina Cup Fishing Tournament presented by MATT BLAIR.
With
the nugacities out of the way, JOE PENNINGTON took over and led the meeting
through the details of Saturday’s Classic Car Show. BOB SHAFF managed to stretch his 5 allotted
minutes to 10 and then repaired to the back of the room where he may have
injured himself trying to cut off JON WANG’S oration, as deep thinking Jon was
clearly struck by a case of oral incontinence and rambled on for 9 minutes more
than his allotted 3.5. Other members of
the leadership committee were more modest with their presentations and the
highlights included Bob’s announcement of record pre-show sales and CHUCK
SAWYER’S success with the Classic Car Club tent.
A
toast to a successful Saturday ended the meeting.
Thank you all for making this past weekend such a terrific success! It was evident to all who attended, car exhibitors and visitors alike, that tremendous planning and preparation went into Saturday's show. Five years of experience and continuous refinements and improvements were on display. From the set-up teams all the way through to the clean-up teams, our members and volunteers were organized and ready to show our guests a great time! Car Show Chairman, Joe Pennington, and the Tactical Leadership team got started very early this year organizing their committees and teams and that appeared to pay off with smooth execution. Creative new ideas like the Classics Club VIP tent came to fruition. Our major sponsor Lucky Wishbone was joined by a cadre of other sponsors who helped us be able to do a first class event. Our show was promoted amazingly well this year through multiple types of media. Vendors and car exhibitor slots were sold out early, demonstrating that the Tucson Classics Car Show is gaining recognition and respect. Raffle ticket sales soared well above previous years. By the day before the show, we had sold more than 19,000 tickets! (Last year's total ticket sales were just over 13,500). Friday night, a number of club members and their family enjoyed the traditional chicken dinner, served by Lucky Wishbone staff, followed by a great silent auction. Attendees bid on everything from fabulous collections of wine, to garden sculpture, to handmade jewelry, to an airplane transponder, all donated so that the proceeds could be added to this year's communities charities fund. Every step in the planning, every donation, every ticket purchase, and everyone who helped in some way, have helped us to make this year's show the best one yet! We won't have the final dollar figures on the 5th Tucson Classics Car Show for awhile but we can tell you that it looks like we will meet our goals so that we can help Reading Seed and the community charities we select. Congratulations to all and many thanks!
We know that you all are exhausted after this past weekend's whirlwind Tucson Classics Car Show, but we have just the follow-up relaxing and fun weekend to remind you that Rotary is about more than our annual fundraiser! Our club is this year's host of the conference and we'd like to have a good showing as the original and largest club in District 5500. Our very own Bob Ernstein is the chair of this year's District Conference so we want to do all we can to help him have a very successful conference. It is not too late to sign up if you haven't done so. Your registration fee for the conference is all paid for by our Club but you do need to register. You can do this online at www.rotaryd5500.org (the online registration is in the middle of the home page under the red letters "Mark Your Calendar"). Meals do cost extra and we need a head count soon so please don't delay! Call our Rotary office if you need assistance with this.
The District is asking people to come at 11:30 this Friday for the opening ceremonies and lunch. There will be outstanding presentations and speakers including Rotary International President's representative, Director Stuart Heal and our Keynote Speaker, David Forward, the author of "A Century of Service." Friday evening is the Hospitality Social. Clubs throughout the District will be hosting different hospitality suites each with a different country's theme, so that participants can move from suite to suite, meeting other Rotarians and enjoying various food and drink. If you cannot make the whole conference, come for part of it or come at least for the opening ceremonies and the lunch on Friday, the cost is $25.00.
The Plenary breakout sessions start at 9:00 a.m. with a choice of attending two to attend on membership, public relations, or grant applications. Cheryl Scott from the Gates Foundation will be the keynote speaker at the luncheon at noon. In the afternoon there will be presentations by the Outbound Group Study Exchange team led by Hugh Thompson and a service project update by Egyptian Rotarians visiting our District now. At 5:30 there will be a reception for our District Governor-Elect Randy Brooks. Saturday night there will be a banquet also at the Doubletree that begins at 6:30 with keynote speaker, RI Director Stuart Heal from Cromwell, New Zealand.
On Sunday, early exercisers may wish to join a group meeting at 6:30 a.m. at the Doubletree for a flat "hike" (walk) around Reid Park before the Conference starts again at 9:30 a.m. and will adjorn at 11:00 a.m. Please help the Rotary Club of Tucson have a respectable showing and sign up today if you have not yet done so!
"Celebrating the Internationality of Rotary" District Conference October 28-30
Rotary Fall Closet Cleaning and Norma Peal Memorial Book Drive! November 16th, 2011
The Vocational Service and Career Development Committee requests your support. Goodwill Industries and UPH will each have a truck in the parking lot of the DoubleTree Hotel at 11:15 am on Wednesday, November 16th.
Please bring all of your "gently used" items. Also . . . please bring books, magazines and tapes for the Norma Peal Memorial Book Drive! These will benefit UMC/UPH patients as they wait for treatment.
Thank you, Rotary Club of Tucson! Everything you donate goes to support our Mission. Goodwill Industries of Southern Arizona provides employment, training, and support services to increase employ-ability, job retention and earnings of individuals who are unemployed and underemployed. Goodwill is dedicated to the ideal of strengthening our families and community through the Power of Work! **Your donation is tax deductible**
I
have GREAT news! The 5th annual
Tucson Classics Car Show is sold out. The
show field is full and we have the best selection of cars/trucks ever.
My
heartfelt THANKS to all of you who have worked soooo hard to make this happen.
We
continued to sell raffle tickets at Tucson Meet Yourself through
Sunday, October 16th until 6:00 PM, and online for "Will Call" pick up only. Of course, raffle tickets will be sold all
day on the 22nd.
Our
job is not done, however. Now we have to
staff this fabulous event and make it family friendly from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Saturday. The Tucson Classics Car Show
is one of the largest one day family entertainment events in Pima
County. We need your help on the day of
the show to make it the most enjoyable event. Thank you in advance
for volunteering.
Without you this show
won't go on! Join the Tucson Classics Car Show Team this Wednesday, October 19th for final show preparations, training, assignments, and updates.
President
JONI CONDIT called us to order, followed by the invocation, led by PAULINE
HECHLER. who then introduced SONNY SOLOT (Mr. "Acapulco"), who led us
in the pledge, followed by the song "America", emphasizing two of his
(and our) favorite words, Liberty and Freedom.After a short break for lunch (pretty good Beef Stroganoff, BTW...!),
ALAN SCHROPE introduced lotsa guests, including PDG TED ANDERSON.
Next, ARNIE JACOBSEN did a questionable imitation
of BOB LOGAN (you didn't talk long enough, Arnie!) introducing five new and
repeat Paul Harris Fellows; MARGARET HIGGINS, MIKE ORCUTT, GORDON SHAW, SEAN
FURRIER, and JOE NEVINS.In addition to
declaring each recipient a relative of Paul Harris, ARNIE bestowed a questionable
gift on each recipient, again in the LOGAN tradition.
Pres JONI then recognized our 5 Birthday
folks, DAN CHAMBERS, VICKIE JACOBS, JIM MURPHY, DANE WOLL, and again, MIKE
ORCUTT.We then had announcements about
the District conference, Boy Scout Popcorn, the Car Show, and the Friday
Dinner/Auction.The best of these was LEE
AITKEN committing the unpardonable sin of substituting that "other"
Chicken -Seller for our lead Car Show sponsor, LUCKY WISHBONE (chicken wings
and water for a week for you, LEE!).
We
then bid Sgt-At-Arms, "Little RICKEY" RUPKEY farewell as he sets off
for Las Vegas.GIB RAYMOND introduced
our Program, which included Conductor GEORGE HANSON and Concertmaster Aaron
Boyd of the Tucson Symphony Orchestra, who first performed two pieces, including
a classical violin solo, and Billy Joel's "Just the Way You Are,” and then
updating us on the TSO today, reminding us of the significance of the Orchestra
in Tucson's culture and economy, and telling us what we all can do to support
it.
Finally, JONI led a heartfelt toast
to all those who helped expand the world's Horizons, including recently-deceased
Apple Computer Founder, Steve Jobs.
As we prepare for our 5th Annual Tucson Classics Car Show, let's all take a minute to thank (and support) our title sponsor, Lucky Wishbone. Without the generosity of Lucky Wishbone the Tucson Classics Car Show would not be what it is today. So join me, as we finalize plans for our best car show ever, in thanking Lucky Wishbone and Arnie Jacobsen for the generosity in supporting the 5th Annual Tucson Classics Car Show!
Guaranteed to start your holidays with a sense of gift giving!
Only a few seats left for the San Carlos Project from Dec. 2-5, 2011. Last chance to join President Joni Condit on this great trip!
The San Carlos Schools Project is the Rotary Club of Tucson’s signature International Service Project that began over 20 years ago as a joint project of the Rotary Club of Tucson and the San Carlos (Mexico) Rotary Club. This project provides a Christmas party for the children from two schools, including refreshments and a present for each child, as well as holiday food for their families.
Last year we were treated to an extravaganza of student performances and presentations. Also, you will enjoy Rotary fellowship and free time in beautiful San Carlos during a fun trip to provide hands on international community service – Rotary “beyond the club” at its best. Saturday afternoon & Sunday morning will be a “libre” (free) time to enjoy marine excursions, sightseeing, or shopping.
Attendees can reserve their spot for $130 per person for transportation and refreshments on the bus. You must have a current passport to travel to and from Mexico. If you have any questions, please call Alan and Lisa Schrope at 237-0832 or email at aschrope@tucsonvah.com and we will provide the answers.
Please respond promptly, as space is limited and all District 5500 clubs are invited. Sign up now!
We
are coming into the home stretch on this year's annual Classics Car Show
Event!Our members have done a
remarkable job of pre-selling tickets!At Tucson Meet Yourself this past weekend, teams sold another 1,000
tickets according to Past President Bob Shaff.this brings our total pre-show sales to more than 17,500 which is
amazing!
This year's Car Show Chairman
Extraordinaire, Joe Pennington, has announced that all of our 450 car slots
have been sold and also all of our vendor slots are also sold out!This is due to the hard work of a number of
people.I hope you have each signed up
for a time slot to volunteer for this year's event.
We truly need each and every member to help
us with the show so please contact Dot Kret if you still need to sign up.I am so proud to be a member of this club and
am so impressed with the level of organization and effort that has been made by
so many to insure that this will be the best Car Show yet!
It is with much appreciation and fond feelings that I thank Rick Rupkey for his service to our Club as this year's Sergeant at Arms and member of your Board of Directors. Rick has taken a new job in Las Vegas and while we are sad to see him go, there is solace in knowing that he plans to transfer his membership to a club there. Rick and his wife, Caroline, are looking forward to new experiences and making new Rotary friends. We wish Rick and his family all the best in his new endeavors. He will be attending his last meeting this Wednesday along with his daughter so be sure to tell him thank you and good luck!
Wishing Sergeant at Arms Rick Rupkey All the Best!
October is the busiest month of the year for our Club. Last Thursday evening thirty plus members met in the upstairs conference room at the eastside Tucson Orthopaedic Insitute, compliments of Past President Jon Wang, to review all of the committee preparations for the upcoming Car Show. Under the terrific leadership of Car Show Chairman, Joe Pennington, your committee chairs have even the most minute of details planned out. Bob Shaff announced that as of October 6th, members have sold 14,000 tickets, ahead of last year at this time but still a long way to go to reach our goal! Thanks to Chuck Sawyer, Cindy Godwin, Irene Decker, and Mike DeVries and their teams, we have sold out our sponsorships and our vendor spots! This is amazing! Our silent auction donations for the yummy chicken dinner being donated by sponsor Lucky Wishbone (Past President Arnie Jacobsen) are also ahead of previous years. Kandie Vactor reported that car registrations jumped from only 126 three weeks ago to 315 and she expects that we will sell out our 450 slots by this week. The cars are the highest quality we've had to date and our car show is gaining recognition as the premier car show in southern Arizona and beyond. Car Show registrants will have a great staff under the leadership of Gib Raymond checking them in and slotting them but we need more volunteers. Training for our slotters will be next Saturday, October 15th for one hour at 8 a.m. at St. Gregory's field. Registrants will have some wonderful goodie bags this year compliments of our members. The staging of our car clubs will be at River Rd. and Craycroft in the shopping center and they will be brought down together through a special entrance. Tell all of your family and friends that we will have a terrific array of food and beverage vendors as well as as an array of merchandise that will be sold in five locations on the field. One of the great new aspects of this year's Car Show will be the "Classics Club," located inside the baseball diamond in a special tent. This will be an upscale venue with food and televisions available to our sponsors. The "Automall Infield" will have an exhibit of "Tomorrow's Classics Today" hosted by Chapman Honda and Jim Click. Preparations for the days are extensive with site clean up overseen by member Tony Pedroza. Chula Vista Landscaping will clean up the site worth a $1,900 donation and our favorite Harlow's nursery will be trimming the trees again. There is an endless amount of preparation involving fencing, tent, tables and chairs to be set up thanks to member Ken Flower of Arizona Party Rentals. Club Secretary, Ginger Leavitt, is busy making signs. David Pashkow has arranged for a fun kids' area with a 70 ft. jumping castle and free face-painting. Dot Kret is stressing that everyone needs to sign up for a shift or more for the day so that we can cover everything that needs to be done that day. Jack Parris will be busy making announcements during the Car Show and the wonderful voice of Bob Logan will be announcing car show category winners and the overall winner from the stage to the east of the beer garden. If you are worried that you might get lost in all of the excitement, Lizard Rock (member Tom McQuillen) is preparing all of the professional site maps. The end of the day exit will be coordinated by board member, Alan Schrope. We're really hopeful that we make our overall net goal of $100,000 so that we can help Reading Seed and one or more community charities! With everyone's help, I have no doubt that this will be the most successful Classics Car Show ever!
At
our meeting of October 5, 2011, Pres JONI CONDIT rang the bell and got the
meeting underway within a minute or two of the appointed time.KEN LIGHT gave the invocation followed by the
Pledge of Allegiance and "America the Beautiful" led by GORDON SHAW.This is still the only song which GORDON
knows.Someone should teach him
"God Bless America" for a change.CAM MOORE introduced guests and visiting Rotarians including visiting
Rotarian, JERRY KANTER who told us in detail about his Kinston Rotary Club as
he presented us with his club banner. Pres
JONI imposed fines on SANDY SANDERSON and JIM RONSTADT for having the audacity
to wear identical shirts.JIM denied
that the shirts were a "two-fer" insisting that they were part of a
"twelve-fer," as there are more where these came from.He must have gotten them wholesale.Two birthday boys graced the head table, RICH
FLYNN and Past Past Pres BILL HARLOW.After
protesting that he only owned half of Harlow Gardens (he declined specifying
which half), Bill recounted notable events of our Club since he joined 41 years
ago.Announcements followed.JOE NEVIN urged our attendance at the Rotary
District Conference to be held right here at the Doubletree Hotel on October
28-30.DARRELL STEWART promoted the Wine
Fellowship Dinner on October 11 at Janos Downtown Kitchen and Bar for a bargain
price.The lion's share of the
announcements went to the Car Show:DOT
KRET called for volunteers , LEE AITKEN called for items for the auction, and
BOB SHAFF exhorted us to sell more car show tickets (we sold 2000 more in the
last week).BOB reminded us that all
unsold tickets are to be turned in next week. ROBERT O'BRIEN told how he sold
605 tickets by enlisting the aid of the band and baseball team at Tanque Verde
High School which shows how a little ingenuity can lead to many sales.Immediate Past Pres MARIANNE FREITAS was
awarded a bound set of the Tucsotarians published during her year in office. The program, introduced by NINA TRASOFF, was
presented by Francisco Zamora Arroyo of the Sonoran Institute who told us of the
plight of the Colorado River Delta and the efforts to restore it.Last, and least, BOB WEBB was fined $100 for
the transgression of allowing his phone to ring during the meeting.Pres JONI reminded us that next week we meet
in the cozy confines of the Bonzai-Boojum room.Yours in Rotary, Mr. E. Ed Itor
Enthusiastic audiences and rising ticket sales have marked George
Hanson’s 15 season tenure as Music Director and Conductor of
the Tucson Symphony Orchestra, where he conducts more than 40 concerts each
year.
Recognized as an important American conductor in the U.S. and Europe, Mr. Hanson assisted
Kurt Masur at the New York Philharmonic from 1993 to 2000 and made his New York
debut there in 1999 as part of the “Completely Copland” festival, earning
praise from the New York Times for his conducting.
In conjunction with District Governor Michael Drake's conference theme: "Celebrate the Internationality of Rotary,"our district Rotarians are planning a service project working with World Care, a humanitarian relief organization based in Tucson. The District is asking that each club find a way to collect the following supplies by October 24th so that on Friday morning, October 28th volunteers can gather at the World Care facilities from 8:30-10:30 a.m. to assemble personal hygiene kits to be distributed anywhere in the world where they are needed. The collection locations will be announced soon. If you are interested in helping to assemble the kits, please see Marcia Krumwiede or Gary Hirsch. If you wish to donate any the hygiene items below for the project, please bring them to one of the meetings on October 12th or 19th. To find out more about World Care you can go to their website at www.worldcare.org. Thanks for your support!
Hygiene Items for World Care:
Bath & Hand Towels, Wash Cloths; Toothpaste (must still be in pkg.); Shampoo (travel size/unscented); Mouth Wash (travel size preferred); Nail Clippers; Razors; Shaving Cream (travel size); Bar Soap; Hand Sanitizers; Deodorant (unscented preferred); Pocket Comb; Travel-size Kleenex; Chapstick; Lotion (travel size/unscented); Diapers (child and adult sizes); Feminine Hygiene Products.
The following is intended to clarify the opportunity that exists to earn extra points toward a Paul Harris Fellow (PHF) by registering to ride in or contributing to the El Tour Polio Plus campaign and/or the RI Annual Programs Fund.
1.If you, a RCOT Member, plan to ride in El Tour de Tucson
a.Go to the District 5500 website, www.district5500.org, download the application form there (you must use this form and send it to Casa Adobes Rotary, not to Perimeter bicycling). Registration costs $100 which goes directly to Perimeter Cycling to support El Tour and has nothing to do with Rotary or your PHF.
b.Complete your registration by November 1, 2011 and RCOT will donate 100 club points to be applied to your PHF or another PHF that you designate.As a rider, any donations made toward your ride by someone who IS NOT an RCOT member will be credited dollar for dollar to your PHF or that of your designee. If you collect a minimum of $200 the RCOT will match those donations with 200 credit points. So if you register as an RCOT rider and collect $200 in donations, RCOT will credit you with a total of 300 points (100 for registering and 200 for the match). If you raise more than $200 in donations the club will match donations with an equal number of points, but act quickly as there are only a total of $5,000 points available for everyone to share.Since points are limited, if someone pledges to support you, it would be prudent to collect that pledge and submit the donation as quickly as possible.
c.Donation checks must be made out to “The “Rotary Foundation” with a memo note of El Tour/Polio Plus and must be turned in NO LATER THAN NOVEMBER 19, 2011 IN ORDER TO HAVE DONATIONS MATCHED WITH POINTS.
2.If you do not plan to ride in El Tour,
a.But you do choose to financially support the RCOT El Tour/Polio Plus team or a RCOT rider and only if you are a member of the RCOT, your donation will be matched with points that can be credited to YOUR PHF with donations of $100 or more.All donation checks should be made out to “The Rotary Foundation” with a memo note of El Tour/Polio Plus and must be received by November 19, 2011. (If you choose to support a particular rider, which we encourage, you will still be credited for the donation toward your PHF and the rider can receive “effort credit” toward his or her goal to raise $1,000. The donation though is actually counted only one time.)
b.Any donation you make between now and November 19, 2011 can be targeted toward the El Tour/Polio Plus Team, but must be a check made out to “The Rotary Foundation” with memo El Tour/PP. As such these donations will be matched dollar for dollar, but must be equal to $100 or more, with points toward a PHF. These may include:birthday contributions; fines; or any donation made.
c.For example: You have contributed $600 so far toward your next PHF. You donate $200 on your birthday and designate it to go to El Tour/Polio Plus. The RCOT matches your $200 donation with 200 points. Voila! You’ve achieved your next PHF. However you must specify at the time of donation that the funds are designated for El Tour/Polio Plus.
3.If you enroll a non-RCOT member to ride in El Tour for Polio Plus.
That rider must follow the registration instructions in Part 1 including the registration deadline.
That rider will be eligible for a 100 point match, which can be applied to a PHF of the non-RCOT
member.This non-RCOT member needs to identify that they are a part of the RCOT team when they register for the ride.Alternately, if that non-RCOT rider is not interested in a PHF, then they may donate those points to youthe Rotarian who enrolled that rider.
Questions. Please forward any questions to Gary Hirsch at gary.hirsch@vistage.com or Charlotte Harris at charharris@aol.com
Earning "Points" for El Tour Registration and Polio Plus Donations
PRESIDENT
JONI CONDIT brought the meeting to order.Seated at the head table where President Joni, JIM LUBINSKI with guests,
Abra McAndrew and Meg Weesner.DAN GUARE
was fined for holding up the meeting and proceeded to stand on a chair, without
falling for more attention.
CLEM LESLIE gave
a very nice Invocation honoring the veterans and active military.
MAGGIE
KOSINSKI led the Pledge of Allegiance and sang America the Beautiful along with
the group.GARY GETHMANN did a nice job on the
piano.
A cell phone
went off at the front center table; bring in a cool $100.Thank you!
Lunch was a
chicken salad which was light and good.
We had
several visiting Rotarians.MIKE SCHULTE
and RAY WEICK celebrated birthdays.Mike
thanked SONNY SOLOT for bringing him into the club.Ray has been in Rotary since 1954.GORDON GRAHAM sponsored him in Tucson Rotary
in 1975.
PAT LENNAN introduced
JIMMY COX as a new member.Announcements
included District Conference update, TOM ANDREWS reported on the flat hike and
the Heroic efforts of JERRY HARRIS as he fought off an enormous and ferocious
bobcat.A reminder was given about the
Havasupai Canyon Hike.Car Show update
with Full Throttle in the lead with ticket sales.A Shout Out was given to DERRICK SINCLAIR for
membership.
Jim Lubinski
introduced Abra McAndrew and Meg Weesner.Meg and Abra gave a very nice account of their travels to Thailand.They showed a very nice slide show
presentation of the northwest region visit.One of the team stayed behind in Thailand, he loved it so much.
President
Condit wished all our Jewish members a Happy Rosh Hashanah and gave the closing toast!
snWe are now down to less than three weeks until our annual Classics Car Show! This is our Club's only fundraiser for the year so please make every effort to sell your tickets so that we can provide Reading Seed with a generous donation that will hopefully exceed our past year's efforts. Our Community Grants Committee, led this year by co-chairs Cindy Godwin and Mike DeVries, is working on a plan for local community charities to submit their grant applications for consideration well before our Car Show so that our club can select the recipient(s) in advance of the Car Show. This way the charity selected can be featured and help to participate in and promote the Car Show, much as Reading Seed has always done. There will be more on this as the concept is defined.
The area club presidents all meet monthly for a breakfast to share projects, successes, and challenges being experienced. Some of the upcoming events of other clubs include:
The Cienega Club has sponsored the Empire Interact Club (high school age) and together they recently hosted a car show. They also just hosted a golf tournament to benefit "TROT" raising $1,300 in donations.
Most of the club are doing something towards the District Dictionary project. Our club donated $2,000 to purchase dictionaries.
Hospitality suites have been organized by individual clubs or several working together for the District Conference with each representing a different country or region.
The Pantano Club is planning a fundraiser on November 12th, "The Grand Prix" in Phoenix. Cost is $125 per person and all Arizona Rotary Clubs are invited to participate.
The Kino Club is planning to take the Middle East Group Study Exchange team to the November 5th U of A Homecoming game. (The team arrives in Tucson on October 23rd and will be here through November 22nd). Still looking for volunteers to house and drive the GSE visitors.
Ray Naylor, Casas Adobes Club, has completed a Tucson Area Rotary Directory.
The Catalina Club is sponsoring a new "Tucson Rotaract Club" which is not yet officially chartered but getting close. First joint fundraiser is a Photo Rally.
There are many more projects ongoing in the District than this, but too many to enumerate here. One of the Area Presidents commented that the challenge is to have many things for Rotarians to volunteer to help with but not so many that it burns them out! Many clubs are adding social events, like our wine dinners and hiking events, to build fellowship and add fun! Hopefully, our Car Show will be able to do both, raise a lot of money to do a lot of good in our community while providing fun and fellowship for our members and their families!
October is almost here and that means it is time to sign-up volunteers for the greatest Car Show in the World! Come one, come all. Sign-up your friends and family as well!Please sign-up for as many shifts as you can possibly manage. This show is great is because of all the wonderful people working on it.
Please join us and make the 2011 Show the best yet! Simple step-by-step instructions for signing-up via the Rotary Club of Tucson website are provided below. Thanks in advance for your volunteerism!!
Volunteer Sign-up Instructions:
Go to the Rotary Club of Tucson Home Page at: www.TucsonRotary.org -- Don’t login yet.
In Upcoming Events (see left column), find the TCCS Volunteers Events by Day / Shift
Click on the event detailing the shift during which you are able to volunteer. (ex: TCCS Volunteers Sat. 22 Oct 8:45AM-1:00PM)
Click on the word VOLUNTEERING in the upper left of screen.
Login using your Rotary Club of Tucson website login. Logins appear in several formats; if you cannot recall your login name, please call or email the Club Office.
Scroll down to see the abundance of volunteer opportunities during the shift. You may need to scroll quite a distance to see everything. If a shift label starts with ROTARIAN, we are looking for Rotarians only to fill the slots.
Click "Book" and click the button for “Not a Member” or “Myself.” If you clicked “Myself” your name should automatically appear. If you clicked "Not a Member," please key in the individual’s name and contact information. Don’t forget the contact information - it is really important.
Click “SAVE.” The list of tasks should appear with your new booking entered in the task/time slot you selected. If you wish to book another person for a task in this shift, repeat steps 6-8.
Scroll down and click "RETURN."
Return to Home Page to select another TCCS Volunteers Shift and follow Steps 3-9. Sorry, the need to login each time is a software issue that is out of our control.
Yay! You did it! Service above self – that’s what Rotary is all about.
Our last wine dinner event was at The Feast and those who attended will tell you that it was a special evening with great food and interesting wine pairings and best of all, realy good fellowship with other Rotarians and their significant others. Our next wine dinner is scheduled to be at Janos' restaurant "Downtown and Bar" on Tuesday evening, October 11th at 6:30 p.m.. Janos has promised to make this a really special evening. He will be serving the first two courses family style so that participants will have the chance to try each selection. The cost of the dinner is $55 per person all inclusive which is an amazing deal with multiple courses including dessert and wine pairings. You won't find a better deal anywhere in Tucson! If you are interested in signing up, please do so as soon as possible. Bon appetit!
Saving
the Colorado River Delta:A look at the
dramatic changes in the Colorado River Delta during the last 15 years.
Because so many entities now have “straws” in
the Colorado River – for example the CAP water on which Tucson relies) – water
from that mighty river no longer flows all the way to the Sea of Cortez/Gulf of
California.This is impacting not only
the flora and fauna of the area, but the way of life for native peoples who
live along its route in Mexico – and the
I came here to Tucson on August 24th and was welcomed and picked up from the airport by the Jacobs family. Vickie and Jake are my host parents. Furthermore there are three host brothers: Adam (7), Marcus (15) and William (17). We live in a house near the University of Arizona. I share a room with Marcus. I go to Tucson High Magnet School, the biggest High School in Tucson with over 3000 students. It`s so big compared to my school in Switzerland, which only had about 300 students. I ride a bike to school because its very close. I take a lot of music classes, including marching band, steel drums and jazz band. Also, I take Spanish, English, American history and mathematics. Those are my seven classes from which marching band I like the most. It is also the class which requires the most time. Additional to the regular school schedule we have practice on Tuesdays from 6 to 9 PM and on Thursdays from 3 to 6 PM. I`m playing snare drum together with four other guys. When I first got there I had to audition in front of the band director Mr. Constantine in order to check my skills. Fortunately I had been accepted but Mr. C made clear I had to work hard and practice a lot so I can catch up with the others. They had been playing snare for a lot longer than I did. I am totally new to this. We have a sectional rehearsal on Wednesdays from 2.15 to 3.30 PM with the whole drumline. Other than that I already met a lot of people. In school everybody wants to meet me because for some reason everybody is excited about foreigners. So I already got a bunch of friends. I also noticed that most of the Americans have problems in understanding that Switzerland and Sweden I not the same country. I have already been to some Rotary Meetings. I met my counselor Dave Gallaher. He`s a really nice guy and he says he wants to do stuff with me. The people at Rotary are all really kind and they say it`s good to have me here! BTW Thank you very much for the 120 Dollars I got from you guys! There was one Rotary meeting were I had to introduce myself in front of 300 people. They said Vickie Jacobs has an announcement and then she gave me the microphone and I didn`t even know she was going to do that so I wasn`t prepared at all and I went like: "Hi, I`m Martin….I go to Tucson High…." And that was pretty much it. So that was a bit weird. At this meeting there was the basketball coach of the University of Arizona, Sean Miller, and he talked about his team and that he thinks it`s very important that Rotary Tucson does a lot of community work. His team is going to play in the Pacific 12 this season and it`s maybe the best league in this year. Coach Miller said that if Rotary buys 100 tickets for a game he will buy 100 tickets for the Rotary Car Show coming up soon.
Hopefully all of you attended last week's meeting where Sean Miller, U of A's head basketball coach, and Greg Byrne, Athletic Director and honorary member of our club, were our guest speakers/introducers. We had 244 people in attendance so we had a full crowd! If you missed the meeting, there was some great coverage in Sunday's Arizona Daily Star, in which Greg Hansen wrote about Coach Miller's plans for our team this year and also talked about his visit to our club! During the meeting Past President Jon Wang asked Greg Byrne if he would buy tickets for his employees to attend our Classics Car Show. Greg said he would, but Jon didn't close the deal by getting a specific number of tickets! However, when Coach Miller came up to the podium he announced that he would purchase 100 Car Show tickets in exchange for our club purchasing 100 tickets to the U of A Red and Blue game, a game that Miller says is the most strategic game of the year in getting recruits to choose the U of A. In my financial world, that is a success if we can get enough of you to purchase those Red and Blue game tickets. Then, we'll be $500 ahead! You'll hear more about this in the next couple of weeks so don't rush to buy your tickets too soon. Be sure to get them from your very own Rotary club! Yes, we know that the Red and Blue game is on the same day as our Car Show, October 22nd, but it doesn't start until 2 p.m.. Our Classics Car Show starts at 10:00 a.m. so there is lots of time for many of you and your family members to help out at our Car Show and attend the Red and Blue game. We call that a win-win!
Here’s added value to RCOT members as hosts of the District
5500 Conference October 28-30th. Sponsorships come in all
sizes and include advertising in the official conference program, and other
acknowledgements and visibility. It’s a chance to thank Rotary
Leadership, or advance the image of your business among all Southern Arizona
Rotarians.
Contact Tom Tilton tilton13@cox.net
for details. Tom or Scott Vaughan scott_vaughan@ml.com
can provide you the information flyer – or pick it up at the RCOT meeting this
week.
Calling the
meeting to order, PRESIDENT JONI looked out at a sea of red.PAT ZUMBUSCH gave an inspiring invocation and
GORDON SHAW led us through the pledge and song, ably accompanied by GARY
GETHMANN.Anyone not wearing red and
blue had to double their scholarship cup contribution.CHARLIE MEAKER introduced our guests, which
included District 5500 notables Val Scanlon and Sally Montagne.DAVID PASHKOW was the lone birthday celebrant
who shared a great secret to a long and happy life – lower your standards.RICK RUPKEY controlled the mike as
announcements were made by TOM ANDREWS and DAVE GALLAHER (hikes), PAT LENNAN
(district conference directed by BOB ERNSTEIN; Friday night dinner), DAN GUARE
(ticket selling opps), JOHN WANG (good fellowship, good fun, good project) and
VICKIE JACOBS (exchange student, Martin – “Tucson Rocks!”)CHARLIE O’DOWD’s Happy Jackson let us know
that he can provide electricians if anyone has the need.
JONI gave a
fine introduction of UA Athletic Director GREG BYRNE who encouraged everyone to
wear red on Fridays to support Wildcat recruiting.He then introduced Coach Sean Miller saying
he has everything an AD wants in a coach.In his 3rd year as men’s basketball coach, Miller says it’s time for a
new beginning.With 5 returning
seniors- all on track to graduate in
May – and 4 talented freshmen, he believes this is our year to accomplish great
things.A very challenging schedule
should keep things interesting.GO
CATS!After some great questions for the
coach, MARY MARTIN announced the winner of the drawing and JONI closed with a special
toast to teamwork.
The Pactimo store is open THROUGH MONDAY NIGHT to purchase men’s and women’s cycling jerseys and shorts, and men’s bib shorts and will remain open for about a week. If you want to order for yourself or others, please do so promptly as there are minimum purchases required to reopen the store at a later date. Delivery is guaranteed to take place no more than five weeks from the date the store closes so we can expect delivery around the first week of November. Please read through this entire note before going to the store to make you purchase.
THE DESIGN The items pictured for sale on the Pactimo site are generic versions of the available products. The attached file illustrates the design, which is essentially unchanged from last year’s design, which was pictured in the Rotarian Magazine this month. The attached file gives you a close up of the actual design and colors, depending of course on how your monitor renders colors. They are very, very close to the official Rotary colors.
SIZING Pactimo offers sizing charts for men’s unisex and bib, and women’s sizes, which are the correct charts for the products we are purchasing (Pactimo’s Continental Line). You can access their sizing chart at the following link. http://pactimo.com/en-US/pages/size_chart Note that sizes differ for every manufacturer so please check and recheck. If you think you are right on the boundary between two sizes, it usually works to go with the larger sizes. Since every order is custom, refunds are absolutely not possible. Pactimo tells me that the chart is reliable.
Note though that if you are ordering with a team and want to order more than 20 pieces, if you act quickly we can have a fit kit sent to you from Pactimo. They will want a credit card for deposit.
ACCESSING THE STORE Please follow these instructions to access the store. Each person ordering will pay for product and shipping at time of order, which is why you are asked to establish an account. Your order will be sent directly to you by Pactimo. Please check and double check your order before paying.
To place orders within the store, instruct your team mates to do the following: 1. Go to www.pactimo.com 2. Click on Custom Team Apparel 3. Click on Team Store 4. Enter the Team Password (endpolionow) 5. Set up a new personal user account from there
CONTRIBUTIONS Recall that these jerseys are part of our Michael Harris Memorial Ride to End Polio. Our goal for this ride is to raise $100,000, all of which will go directly to Rotary International for our fight to end polio.
Ernie Montagne, our former District Governor has agreed to manage our fund raising efforts and Ernie will be contacting you shortly with some suggestions for fund raising and to make arrangements to track your efforts. Thank you in advance for helping us make this a great success and for helping us honor the memory of Michael Harris. If you are not riding please consider making a donation to sponsor a rider. Remember that any contribution you make toward this effort is matched by the club with points. Thanks to all.
El Tour Rotary Cycling Jerseys Available Only Through Monday!
Hi Everyone! We’ll have 20 tables reserved this week with a sign for each of your teams! Sit with your team members and enjoy the camraderie! Your team captains will be ready to collect your ticket stubs and corresponding receipts. You can talk with your team mates about your successes in getting ticket sales, sign up to staff the SAHBA Home Show and Tucson Meet Yourself Festival, and have some fun together!! Some of our members and teams had great success this past weekend at the Greek Festival, selling 816 tickets! Our online sales are strong but we still have a long ways to go to reach our 20,000 ticket sales goal!
I know that all of you belong to our Rotary club simply for the fellowship, but I also know that most of you make generous donations to Rotary every year that you hope are tax deductible! In case any of you plan to write a check to donate to Rotary International for your Paul Harris (or for a Paul Harris for a loved one) or for Polio Plus, I'd encourage you to write your check to "The Rotary Foundation". Likewise, if you plan to write a check out to our internal scholarship program or to Reading Seed, it would be better to write your check out to "The Rotary Club of Tucson Foundation". Why is this? Our club is comprised of two entities. The first is a 501(c)4 for our main club operations that includes our quarterly dues, lunch costs, and expenses for running the club. This is not an entity that is allowed to accept donations. Our club also has a foundation, the Rotary Club of Tucson Foundation, which is a 501(c)3 and is able to accept donations which are tax deductible to the donors. If you wish to deduct your charitable Rotary donations, please make a separate check for these to either The Rotary Foundation (Rotary International) or to the Rotary Club of Tucson Foundation. This also saves Mary Laughbaum from having to transfer money from our regular Club account to our Foundation and from having to account for all such transactions in both our Club accounting and our Foundation accounting. This will also speed up our transfer of dollars to the appropriate place that our members intend their money to go! If you have any questions about this, please contact either Assistant Governor Charlotte Harris or Treasurer Patrick Zumbusch.
Ahhhh, the best
laid plans! In 2011, the District 5500
GSE Team journeyed to District 3360 in Northern Thailand. Having originally planned to travel to West
Africa, this year’s team detoured to Asia to
visit an area of the world where District 5500 has a strong history of
supporting humanitarian projects, thanks to the
Now in its 17th year, Tucson
Rotarians and Reading Seed Coaches, begin the fall season this week as a
project of our club. Seven members of our club and eight community
members (including 3 former members of our club) read weekly with students in
grades 1-3 at Robison Elementary School located on 18th Street between Country
Club and Tucson Blvd. If you are interested in being a part of this
rewarding experience, you must participate in a 3 hour Reading Seed Training
Session. Those remaining trainings that are schedule are: Friday, Sept 23
from 1-4 p.m. at the Woods Library; Saturday, Sept 24 from 1-4 p.m. at the
Columbus Library; and Wednesday, Sept 28 from 1-4 p.m. at the Green Valley
Library. Reservations are required by calling Reading Seed at 798-0700 or
visiting www.readingseed.org to
register. We would love to have you join us at Robison. It is a
GREAT little school!
We all heard last week about the 2011 Tucson Meet Yourself Festival in Downtown Tucson October 14-16. With over 100,000 Tucsonans expected to attend this Festival the weekend before our car Show, this is a wonderful opportunity to sell Car Show Tickets. Please rally your team to sign up for a 4-hour shift on one of the three days of this festival. Consider having your team take over an entire shift. You can sign up online at our website www.TucsonRotary.org: 1) sign in; 2) go to the Admin page; 3) scroll to the bottom of the page until you see "Event Registration and Volunteer Booking"; 4) Click on "Volunteer" next to the 2011 Tucson Meet Yourself Event; and 5) Sign up for one of the eight 4-hour shifts over the three-day event. This will help us meet our goal of selling 20,000 Car Show Tickets.
Member Alan Schrope, on your current Board of Directors, has invited all members to sign up for the 2011 San Carlos Mexico trip where we celebrate the Christmas holiday with the local children and their families. Without this annual international project, these children would likely not have any gifts at all. Not only do we provide a gift to each child, but we make a lunch with hot dogs and cookies, have pinatas filled with candy, and we give each of the parents rice and beans to take home. The bus ride is $130 per person and hotel rooms are $86.00 per night. The approximate cost is $388 per person or $518 per couple plus the cost of meals. If you have any questions, please contact Alan or Lisa Schrope by email at: aschrope@tucsonvah.com or 520-237-0832. Please sign up online at the Rotary Club of Tucson website.
For those of you who enjoyed our recent Wine Dinner at Feast and for those of you who, unfortunately, missed it, you have another chance to enjoy a delicious dinner with wine pairings! Co-chairs Angela Baurley and Darrell Stewart have arranged a wonderful dinner on October 11th at Janos Downtown Bar and Kitchen starting at 6:30 p.m.. If you haven't been to this restaurant, you've been missing a really fun venue. The cost is $55 per person all inclusive, the same as the Feast dinner. Janos is proposing a fabulous menu with an interesting twist in that each of the two primary courses will be served family style so that each guest gets to try three different dishes for each of the first two courses. This is another opportunity to enjoy the fellowship of other club members so if you are interested, please sign up as soon as possible. We will need a minimum of 30 people and not more than 50 to firm up this evening of fun!
It is hard to know what to get more excited about this week: having head basketball Coach Sean Miller as our guest speaker, introduced by honorary member and U of A Athletic Director, Greg Byrne, or that our annual Classics Car Show event is only a month away and members are selling tickets well ahead of last year's pace?! For all of you Wildcat fans, be sure to be dressed in Red and Blue to show your support! For all of the rest of you, please wear red and blue because it is American!
This past week was a good one for selling Car Show tickets. Our members are ahead of last year on sales but we have a long ways to go to reach our goal so please keep selling your tickets! We expect to have a lot of guests this Wednesday to listen to Coach Miller so we will have members of the "Classy Car Show Chicks and 3 Guys Team" selling tickets at a table in the back of the room. Be sure to encourage guests at your table to purchase tickets!
If you have sold/purchased as many tickets as you can, this is the time to return your unsold tickets to your Team Captain. Any tickets not turned in by Wednesday, October 12th, will be charged to the member on the next quarterly statement. We don't want anyone to have to pay for tickets that they did not intend to purchase so please turn in unsold tickets. We need them for the day of the Car Show to sell at the entrance.
We are taking sign-ups now for the Friday Night Car Show Chicken dinner on October 21, so please plan to attend! There will be good food, other club members and their guests, and a fun silent auction with lots of donated items. This will be a great way to kick off our annual Car Show event so sign up!
PRESIDENT
JONI started the meeting and introduced TED KIRACOFE who led us with a
resounding invocation.This was followed
by BILL COZINE (mmm will he cosign my loan?) leading us in our pledge and
song,” America the Beautiful”, with piano accompaniment by GARY GETHMANN.
President
Joni reminded us to not forget the scholarships cups and by looking at the take
afterwards, we didn’t.
We
enjoyed our repast of Cobb Salad, and the oh so yummy chocolate chip cookies.After a weak ringing of the bell the chatter
ceased and BEN HAWKINS did the introduction of visiting Rotarians and guests,
includingour District Grants Chair,
Sally Montagne and a special guest of ALAN ROGERS, Swan Rogers, aka Susan.Ben, clean those glasses or yell at that guy
at the registration table who flunked penmanship in grade school.Happy Birthdays to Ted Kiracofe, BOB ERNSTEIN
and HOWARD BIRCH.PAT RASKOB introduced
new member TONY PENN!Welcome aboard
Tony!
Announcements
were made regarding the District Conference Oct 28-30 at the Doubletree.Sign up now. The first hike which is Sept 24th
will get you started for the season.Stacey Crom, Foothills Rotary Club announced the Taste of Jazz and let’s
not forget our grand Car show, Oct 22nd and all the prep work.Sell those tickets.
CHARLOTTE
HARRIS and BOB LOGAN, presented the PAUL HARRIS FELLOW AWARD to JESSE THORPE, GEORGE LARSEN, and RABBI STEPHANIE AARON.
BOB
SHAFF introduced our speaker Mia Hansen, a visiting Rotarian from the newly
chartered Presidio Club, and the Executive Director of Tucson Meet (aka Eat)
Yourself.This will be held Oct 14-16
and will give us the opportunity to work jointly with the Presidio Club to sell
our car show tickets.
Wear your RED, yourBLUE!! Show your support as Rotary Club of Tucson Honorary Member, University of Arizona Athletic Director Greg Byrne introduces Men's Basketball Coach Sean Miller at Rotary!
Arizona's climb back to the elite level of college basketball began April 7, 2009, when Sean Miller took over the reins of the esteemed program. In the time since that announcement, Miller has given the Wildcats the stability needed to move forward with confidence, the focus to improve each day and the guidance of a leader who has found success everywhere he's been.
U of A Athletic Director and Rotary Club of Tucson Honorary Member Greg Byrne will introduce Coach Sean Miller on Wednesday, September 21st.
Are you planning to attend and/or bring a Guest? Make your reservation now by signing up on the website, calling the office or emailing Rotary@TucsonRotary.org. RSVP by this Wednesday, September 14th. Rotary Club of Tucson members' dues cover lunch, yet everyone is asked to make reservations in order to assist in the meal planning. All guests are $25.00.
Show the Registration Desk your appreciation by arranging in advance! Show Coach Miller your support by wearing Wildcat colors!
Members and Guests - Reserve for Coach Sean Miller Today!
Rotarians are invited to a literacy rally on Saturday, October 1st, 9:00-11:00 a.m. at the Jacome Plaza in front of the Joel Valdez Main Library downtown. The rally will celebrate the recent merger of five powerful literacy organizations including our beloved Reading Seed. The five organizations included in the newly created organization are: the Literacy for Life Coalition, Literacy Volunteers of Tucson, Reach Out and Read Southern Arizona, Stories That Soar, and Reading Seed. The hope is that the new, stronger organization will empower people to create a culture of literacy and creative expression throughout our community. Literacy is the foundation upon which the success of individuals, our economy, and our community is built. Improving literacy improves all of our lives. Our member, Cliff Bowman, is a board member of the new organization and was a former board member of Reading Seed. He is encouraging all RCoT members to come to celebrate with them as they unveil their new name and logo at the rally! As Cliff says, "our new literacy organization is an innovator and the go-to-resource that supports and connects the agencies and organizations promoting literacy in Southern Arizona". This rally is open to the whole community and will offer the opportunity for neighborhoods, groups, and organizations to participate in the rally by wearing a plain white t-shirt to demonstrate collective unity around literacy; to bring a poster to stating what literacy means to you; to bring a book to the rally to exchange; and to learn more about the five programs and how you can be a part of the new organization.
We are getting lots of requests and inquiries from around the country from other Rotarians and cyclists who would either like to purchase a jersey or want to sign up to ride in this year's El Tour bike ride. With this ride we will be honoring the late Michael Harris, Assistant Governor Charlotte's husband, who was going to serve as President this year of the Tucson Casas Adobes Club but passed away before he could serve. Michael had led Rotarian's involvement in the El Tour for the past two years on behalf of District 5500. The proceeds will go to Rotary International to help to finish the fight to eradicate polio. Our member Gary Hirsch is leading Rotary's participation at the District level this year and is assisted by PDG Ernie Montagne, District Polio Plus Chair Tom Tilton, and a wonderful committee. It you are interested in riding in the El Tour please sign up now as the cost to do so will go up in November. The application can be downloaded and printed out from the District 5500 web site (www.rotaryd5500.org) or if you don't have access to a computer please contact Gary. If you are interested in ordering the related cycling clothing with the Rotary emblem, please let Gary know right away. You can email Gary at: gary.hirsch@vistage.com or call him on his cell (904-3762).
I'm back from Durango and am happy to report that my sister Ann's surgery went as well as could be hoped for given her diagnosis. Mercy Hospital in Durango is only five years old and is a beautiful as well as technically current facility and the medical staff is excellent and caring. I am very hopeful that Ann's cancer is gone forever and hope that her pathology reports this week will bring good news. I appreciate the numerous good wishes and prayers sent by you all on her behalf and have to say that my family of Rotary is an amazing source of encouragement and hope. Thank you all.
For those of you who may not have heard, Joe Pennington's long time assistant, LeeAnna, passed away suddenly this past week. Athough she has had many health challenges in recent years, Joe has relied upon her greatly and was not expecting this. With his added Car Show Chairman duties in addition to all that he normally does, her passing will be diffifcult for him on many levels. Joe, our condolences to you for her loss.
On a happier note, we are slowly but surely getting some new members! Your board just approved Derrick Sinclair to join our Club. He is sponsored by Sonny Solot and will be introduced soon at one of our upcoming meetings. Please keep working on helping us recruit your colleagues, friends, and family members so that we can rebuild our membership back to previous levels!
I hope you have not forgotten the answer to the title of this article. If you answered for "fellowship and to make a difference in and give back to my community", you are in the right place!
Now is the time that you can get the most of both fellowship and giving back, and that is by participating in our annual fundraiser, the Tucson Classics Car Show. This is a huge job every year and one that takes the help of EVERY ONE OF YOU! It doesn't matter your physical ability or your age. There are things that EVERYONE can do! This is the one time we ask ALL MEMBERS to help, and is our one and only fundraiser. Even if you are going to be out of town on October 22nd, you can still help BEFORE the show with ticket sales and show preparation (which is in many forms for all of your abilities).
Remember how proud you are every year when we hand over checks to Reading Seed and other charities? This is not one person's accomplishment, but one of your whole club. You should be proud!
So.....please start by volunteering to help before, on the day of, and on the day after the show. Remember, we (at the very least) need the help of all members the whole day of the show. We would like to see 100% participation of every member this year! Invite your family members and friends to join you to help at the show. They are all welcome and encouraged. Working the Car Show is also a good opportunity to expose a prospective member to our club and all the fun we have running the show.
Contact Show Chair, JOE PENNINGTON if you would like to get involved right now. Contact DOT KRET to sign up to work the day before, the day of and the day after the show. Last, but not least, SELL YOUR TICKETS! If every member sells 90 tickets we will reach our goal of 20,000 tickets sold before the show. It's an easy sell - $5.00 gives one person entry to the show on October 22nd, plus the chance to win their choice of a 2002 Corvette convertible -or- $10,000 cash.
Filling
in for PRESIDENT JONI CONDIT was PRESIDENT ELECT JIM LUBINSKI. Calling the
meeting to order in a rather squinty fashion President Elect Jim kept calling
out for help from GARY SCHEER and the need for some glasses.
In
his usual witty fashion JACK PARRIS inspired us with a prayer of Bi-Focals.
Our
pledge (which he almost forgot) and song was led by DAN GUARE who was still
shaken from his trip to the Jersey Shore. He blamed it on the earthquake and
hurricane but I heard he was still recovering from a night on the boardwalk
with SNOOKI. He was accompanied on the piano by PAST PRESIDENT GARY GETHMANN to
the melodious verses of “AMERICA “.
The
introduction of our guests and visitors was handled by TOM ELLINWOOD who had to
fill in for the missing KEN LIGHT. He started off slow but handled his duty
with poise and courage.
The
Birthday Boys were all assembled. Leading the way was ART ALLIS followed by STEVE
CHRISTY with an impromptu story of his first trip to Hirsh’s Shoes (sounded
like a commercial to me) and long winded tale of revisiting his lost youth.
After a befuddled crowd jeered, President Elect Lubinski returned to the land of
the present and asked for a moment of silence to remember HERB CLARK and AUGGIE
BARBER.
Quick
updates from TOM ANDREWS on the first hike of the season on September 24th, to
be followed by lunch hosted by MIKE and Susan ANDERSON. Next up was DAVE
GALLAHER with a quick pitch for the ROTARY YOUTH EXCHANGE hike October 13-16th
at Havasupai Canyon. GINGER LEAVITT started soliciting volunteers for the DISTRICT
5500 CONFERENCE and to mark your calendars for October 28-30 to attend as we
are one of the host clubs. PAT LENNAN, SCOTT VAUGHAN, J.B. TOLAND and MARCIA KRUMWIEDE amused us with a quick
skit on how to sell car show tickets but the real message was just ASK, ASK,
ASK. Last but certainly not least President Elect Jim gave DAVID STERN a few
minutes to say Thank you and goodbye after 29 years as a member of our
illustrious club. He is off to New Orleans and said to stop by if you’re in the
area. Good Bye and Good Luck and Thanks for the memories!
President Elect Jim introduced our introducer SUSAN MOORE VAULT who presented our speaker
Mike Varney the new president of the Tucson Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce. Mike’s
speech gave us a hope of the chamber working with government and business’s to
make Tucson a more attractive business friendly environment.
President Elect Jim Lubinksi ended the meeting with the ceremonial toast.
Mia Hansen was named Executive Director of Tucson Meet Yourself January 2010 and is passionate about carrying on the important mission of this wonderful local non-profit organization. Mia has been an independent director/producer/choreographer for 20 years.
We attended Home Hospitality this past week with a group of Rotarians and their spouses at Cushing Street Bar and Restaurant. DON ROLLINGS hosted the small group which consisted of SID HIRSH and Marsha, CRISSY PERHAM and Charlie, MICHAEL SAGARA and Lynn, GIB RAYMOND and Trisha, and SONNY SOLOT and Ruth.
Don and his family bought Cushing Street Bar and Restaurant in 1972 and his sister Betsy still manages it. Appetizers were served, introductions made and the feast began. Charlie Perham is active duty Air Force. Trisha is a critical care nurse working at TMC and is also involved in a home remodeling project with Gib. Ruth and Sonny have an international family. Ruth also gave pointers about traveling to Spain. Lynn and Mike were delighted to be at Cushing Street Restaurant as it is one of their personal favorites and often take out of town visitors there. Sid took us down memory lane and told us of some fantastic stories about the Old Pueblo. The most memorable story came from Gib who shared with us a humorous moment when the late Representative Mo Udall was having a lively discussion with his eye doctor about paying for services received. Apparently Mr. Udall only had one eye and he only wanted to pay for half the doctor's visit!
After the entree, carrot cake was served and devoured by all. It was just downright scrumptious. Our server brought "Cleopatras" to our table (a drink which he made - composed of Chambord, Godiva White Chocolate and Mango juice). It was yummy!
Mystery Editor - a sample of Home Hospitality Week
If you have had this hike and place on your bucket list here is your chance to check it off! (If you don't have it on your list, you should get it on there!)This trip is sponsored by the Rotary Youth Exchange program for our neighboring District 5510. It is extremely well organized and is a blast. Havasupai Canyon is one of the most scenic spots in all of Arizona and this hike incorporates spectacular scenery plus the opportunity to mingle with the state's RYE students from three Districts including ours. The canyon is home to many waterfalls including the famous Havasu Falls and Mooney Falls which is the highest waterfall in Arizona as well as the Indian village of Supai, Arizona. Anyone is welcome to attend and registration ends October 1st. It is first come, first served. Susan and I have participated twice and it is a very fun experience and great exercise. On average there are about 35-40 RYE students from all over the world and District 5510 members do a remarkable job of making this trip very easy. Pitching in to help is optional and fun to do. The hike is 11 miles to the campground and 11 miles back out. Horses can be reserved and so can a helicopter (at a higher cost). Anyone over the age of 7 is welcome. Trip cost of $285 includes meals, permits, transport of pack by horses, and fun. Transportation is available for an additional $75. If you are interested and want to learn more, call Dave Gallaher at 907-4983.
Rotary Youth Exchange Hike to Havasupai Canyon October 13-16
We've all heard the name, but what exactly does the Tucson Metro Chamber do? What is the new leadership of Mike Varney, President / CEO, and Bill Holmes, COO, doing to really make a difference in our local economy and in the quality of life in Tucson and Pima County?
Mike and Bill will present an update on priorities and program of work of the Tucson Metro Chamber, the largest chamber of commerce in our area. Hear what the Chamber is doing to promote a strong local economy, help small businesses grow, advocate in the halls of local government and make a difference in local education.
When Business is Good, Life is Good - Mike Varney & Bill Holmes
As you know, our Rotary quarterly dues go to pay for lunches, District 5500 dues, and Rotary International Dues (and your monthly RI magazine). We are obligated to pay for these items whether or not our members actually pay their dues on time. Your board was very concerned this year and last to not raise dues because of economic challenges. However, there are some club members who have gotten significantly behind and the Four Way Test question must be asked: Is it fair to all concerned? Your board feels that it is not and is requiring your Treasurer to enforce the delinquent dues policy henceforth.
This policy requires that members pay their quarterly dues within 30 days of the billing date (the first of July, October, January, and April). A late fee of $25 will be assessed for payments paid after 30 days. If the bill is paid after 30 days, the late fee will still remain owed. Please contact Mary Laughbaum if you do not receive your bill by the 15th of the month. Please remember to notify the office of any changes in addresses or emails (if you receive your bill that way). After 60 days delinquency, the member will receive a letter from your club Treasurer requesting to bring your account current. Membership is subject to termination by the Board if the account is not paid within 90 days of the original billing. Termination does not eliminate the member's debt to the club.
If you are having financial difficulties that affect your ability to pay your quarterly dues promptly, please contact Patrick Zumbusch (Club Treasurer), or President Joni to explain your circumstances.
I hope all of you had a relaxing Labor Day and had time to spend with family and friends. This coming Sunday will mark the tenth anniversary of the September 11th terrorists' attacks on our nation and it should be a day for us all to pause and reflect on how the citizens of our country and beyond came together to try to help comfort and support those who lost so much. Rotarians are often at the center of efforts to restore normalcy following a terrible event. In the past few weeks there have been hundreds of people on the East coast who have lost much as the result of Hurricane Irene and the floods that followed. As senseless and terrible as these events are, they are both reminders that what is most important are the relationships we each have with our family members, friends, and colleagues. Sometimes we forget to tell those around us, that they are important and that we care about them. So, I want you each to know that I value and appreciate your friendship and feel very blessed to be able to spend time with so many of you every week. I very much appreciate your President-Elect, Jim Lubinski, for agreeing to step in and run our meeting this week so that I can be with my sister and family while she goes through a difficult time. I will be flying back home on Sunday, September 11th, and I will be thinking of all of you and those that we lost on that fateful day ten years ago.
Rotary Club of Tucson members wear the Rotary Wheel on the back of their jerseys when they ride to help eradicate Polio worldwide. The Rotarian magazine, September 2011 issue, has a great article featuring our very own Rotarian El Tour de Tucson riders. Check out page 12 of the issue or try the link below and see if you can name them!
At our monthly Area Presidents' breakfast meeting each Club President talks about their upcoming projects and any special challenges their club may be encountering. In the event that our Club doesn't provide you with enough fellowship and fun, you can also participate in a special evening called "A Taste of Jazz" which is being hosted by the Foothills Rotary Club. This event will include a fun evening of jazz, drinks, and hors d'oeuvres to raise funds for the Hearth Foundation, Youth on Their Own, and the Rotary Dictionary Project. The event is on Friday, September 16th from 7:00 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. at the Tucson Convention Center. To sign up, just click on the link (or copy and paste into your browser) the following: http://www.eventbrite.com/event/2011808373
Our Club is very excited to announce the arrival of our newest exchange student that we are sponsoring. His name is Martin Maron and he is from Berlingen, Switzerland. He is 16 years old and quite the musician. He will be attending Tucson High School and initially will live with our member Vic Jacobs and her son, Jake. We will be searching for a additional host family to begin hopefully at the beginning of March to June 2012. At Home Hospitality this week, my husband and I sat at dinner with member Jonathan Martin, headmaster at St. Gregory's, and his wife Carman. They shared their wonderful experiences over the years hosting children from other countries and in particular, the close relationships they developed with hosting two high school girls when they lived in Oakland, California. They said that while their two boys were quite young, these girls became their "daughters" and were an important part of their family. So, if you have never taken the step of considering whether to be a host family, talk with our members who have done so in the past. Some of those include Larry Peth, Drew Vactor, and David Diamond to name just a few. You and your family will develop lifelong friends in another country.
Last week our Club donated $2,000 towards a special district-wide project for which Governor Michael Drake is highly enthusiastic. This will purchase (at $1.75 apiece) 1,142 dictionaries for third graders across District 5500. Each student receives their very own book to keep. While the title of the book is "A Student's Dictionary," the breadth of information contained in it is much broader than the name implies. In addition to being a dictionary appropriate for any third grader, the book also includes in-depth biographies on our Presidents, valuable civic documents, and much, much more.
Each year, your Club President has a small but very useful discretionary fund out of our Club Foundation that he or she can determine how best to use to support something unplanned that complements our charitable mission and the goals of Rotary. I felt that this would be a good use of some of those dollars. Our Club has heavily invested in helping to improve the literacy of children throughout Pima County for nearly a decade through the support of Reading Seed. This project furthers the goals to make sure that the young students in our community develop solid fundamentals of reading. The young children of today will become the leaders in the future and it is critical to all of us that they have a strong foundation in reading.
This is a very cost effective program which coincides with the spirit and purpose of Rotary. If you are interested in helping to distribute these dictionaries to the schools once they are ordered, please contact me so that we can help to arrange this!
Giving Every 3rd Grader in District 5500 A Dictionary!
Congratulations to us all….through August 17th we have sold 4,000 Car Show tickets…20% of our goal of 20,000 tickets. Great progress. Better than last year at this time. Still, a steep hill to climb with 6 weeks of prime selling time to go.
Here are the BEST 5 ways to sell tickets:
Send an email to your friends asking them to buy tickets
Ask everyone you know to buy 2 tickets
Sell tickets ONLINE. Purchasers now have the option to have us MAIL their tickets to them. Simple!! Easy!!
Ask businesses you know to buy tickets for their employees and customers
Team up with a few other RCOT members to sell tickets at the many upcoming Tucson events: The Greek Festival, Oktoberfest, the Oro Valley Car Show, and the Little Anthony’s Car Shows.
Congratulations to Angela Baurley’s team “Full Throttle” and Roger Harwell’s team “Rogers’ Rodders” for leading the way in team sales.
Congratulations to our perennial classic Car Show ticket seller, Jim Sumwalt, for leading individual sales with 410 tickets sold through August 17th.
The last laps of a car race are when “winners” come through. You have proven year after year that RCOT members are all “winners”. Let’s make the 2011 Tucson Classics Car Show the best ever by selling 20,000 tickets before the Day of the Show!!
About half of our Club members this week are enjoying the special benefits of Home Hospitality where nine of our members volunteered to host a meal at their home or restaurant. Our Club reimburses the host $15 per member and guest. It is no cost to the member to attend because it is in lieu of our regular lunch meeting at the Doubletree, but guests (usually a spouse or significant other) are charged to the member bringing the guest on their quarterly bill. One of the great things about Home Hospitality is that there is more time to get to know members and their significant others better in a relaxed environment. You find out that while we are similar in our commitment to help our community and beyond, our group is comprised of individuals who have very different backgrounds, work history, interests, and talents. So, if you were unable to attend one this week or decided it wasn't for you, please reconsider the next time as it is great fun! We usually have two Home Hospitality events per year and they tend to coincide with dates that the Doubletree is not able to host our Club. The next one is planned for the week of the Gem Show.
On another note, I apologize for not being able to lead our next scheduled meeting on September 7th. I will be traveling to Durango, Colorado so that I can be present for my youngest sister's double mastectomy. She learned two weeks ago that she has invasive breast cancer and because of where it is, her oncologist and surgeon have determined that this is the necessary course of action. I share this personal news because as our family has reeled with her health issues, it has become evident that this is a disease that has touched nearly every family. While there are many more options and treatments today for breast cancer and significant improvement in survival rates, this is still a disease that kills many woman and some men annually. It emphasizes the need for women to be diligent in getting regular mammograms and doing monthly self exams. I am very hopeful there will be a positive outcome for my sister and I very much appreciate that your President-Elect, Jim Lubinski, will be running the meeting on the 7th. I am certain that he will do a superb job. See you on September 14th!
There will not be a meeting at the Doubletree Hotel this Wednesday, August 31. If you are a member, attend Home Hospitality as your replacement meeting or accomplish a make-up online or at another Rotary club meeting!
No Meeting This Wednesday - Replace with Home Hospitality Week!
PRESIDENT JONI called the meeting to order at noon. PAULINE HECHLER gave the invocation. CRISSY PERHAM led us in the Pledge and America.
A better than average Doubletree Rotary luncheon salad was enjoyed by most. JESSE THORPE introduced our guests that included the parents of District Governor MICHAEL DRAKE.
Past President HUGH THOMPSON celebrated his birthday and related an interesting article he had read.
Elizabeth Campbell and CLIFF BOWMAN gave an excellent quarterly Reading Seed report. They emphasized the impact reading problems have on delinquency and school drop outs. RCOT has contributed over $500,000.00 to Reading Seed. BOB SHAFF presented 500 tickets purchased by our members for Reading Seed Mentors. Another 500 were purchased for D-M.
President JONI urged us to recruit past members, entice them with the waiving of the $300.00 fee. We’ve lost 12% of our membership in four years. She reminded us of the opportunity to obtain matching funds for Paul Harris contributions. We are hosting the District Conference Oct 27-30 that she encouraged us to attend. She informed us of her $2,000.00 donation from her discretionary fund to the dictionary project. JONI bragged that she sold 20 car show tickets to Michael Drake.
Past President, Asst. District Governor CHARLOTTE HARRIS matched JONI also selling him twenty. She introduced DISTRICT GOVERNOR MICHAEL DRAKE. He praised past president RAY TERLIZZI who re-introduced him to Rotary and BOB ERNSTEIN’S 14 years as District Ambassadorial Scholarship Chair. He cited our club’s past District Governors: EARL UPHAM, NELSON DAVIS, BILLY JOE VARNEY, and Phil Silvers. He praised the many contributions our club has made; encouraged us to be involved in the world of Rotary beyond our club. He provided an update on the battle to eradicate polio, and spoke proudly of his worldly Rotary experiences in Russia, Japan and India.
Thank
you to all Rotary Club of Tucson members who have contributed on a yearly basis
to The Rotary Vocational Fund of Arizona (TRVFA).
The
RCoT is proud to sponsor Eric Wilson for a TRVFA grant of $3,000 which will
enable Eric to pursue his Certified Nursing Assistant Degree from the Arizona
Caregiver Training Institute. Eric is a four-year veteran of Gulf War I, lives
independently and is financially responsible for his 2 sons.Eric will complete his required courses in
early September.
TRVFA
has a new and impressive website, www.trvfa.org,
for your perusal.
In the next 2 weeks
Ernst Martin Maron, from Berlingen, Switzerland will be arriving in Tucson to
be hosted by our Club. Martin (which he likes to be called) 16 years old, is
a drummer and plays the saxophone. He plays in an adult rock band, a jazz band,
in a wind band and in a youth orchestra (which he says is the best in
Switzerland). He will attend Tucson High School and live with Vickie and Jake Jacobs.He has follow-on families arranged until next
February or March so we are looking for a prospectivehost family from March to June.We encourage all members to introduce Martin
to your family, and to take him on a family outing, movie or for dinner. He
loves to travel, but knows very little of the U.S.
Every year, our club
hosts an Exchange Student.We also
sponsor up to 3 Tucson area high school students, aged 16-18 1/2, to study abroad
for a year (and are now recruiting for that program) or for 6 weeks in the
summer. Tom Andrews is the District Chair for the one-year program, and Dave
Gallagher for the 6-week program. Please contact any of us for information on
either seeing Martin or on any of the other Student Exchange Programs. These
programs can change a life, and perhaps, change the world.
President
JONI CONDIT welcomed everyone and JACK PARRIS gave the invocation. MAGGIE
KOSINSKI led pledge and song, accompanied by GARY GETHMANN.
Guests
were recognized by CLIFF BOWMAN and we said Happy Birthday to SID HIRSH, who proved
to us that life begins at 80!Congrats
to Sid and his lovely wife, Marcia, who celebrate their 59th anniversary this
week.We send birthday greetings and
best wishes to GEORGE HAWKE, who turned 92.
LARRY
ADAMSON introduced our newest member, super woman CARMEN BERMUDEZ who, in
addition to growing up in Costa Rica, moving to the US and starting several
successful businesses, has been a professional bullfighter and competed in the
Escape from Alcatraz race, for which she trained by taking ice baths!
CHARLOTTE
HARRIS honored our newest Paul Harris Fellows: DAVE DIAMOND, BOB PLACZEK, IMAN
HAKIM, CRISSY PERHAM, and Charlotte’s son Christopher Harris.Congratulations to all.
BOB
SHAFF updated us on the status of car show ticket sales (our best week yet!),
gave us the great news that a mail-out feature has been added to the website
for folks who buy tickets on line and want them sent via USPS and introduced ticket
seller par excellence, Anita Dire, a truly powerful woman (and further proof of
the Good Life after 80!)MATT BLAIR
caught a Marlin and invited us to participate in the fishing tournament which
raises money to support our San Carlos project, and ALAN SCHROPE wants us to
sign up for this year’s trip, December 2, 3 and 4.
The
Friday night car show Bar-B-Q dinner was described by PAT LENNAN, GARY SCHEER
solicited Goodie Bag contributions and LEE AITKEN requested donations for the
Silent Auction.DARRELL STEWART reminded
us to sign up for Home Hospitality.
President
Joni told us that our Board has decided to waive the $300 initiation fee for
former members who have left our club within the last four years and rejoin
this year.
Executive
Director of The Haven, MARGARET HIGGINS presented our speaker, Kiran
Easwarachandran, who described and demonstrated Bollywood Dance Fusion.She was then joined on the stage by our own
Rotary Hello Bolly dancers: Margaret Higgins, LARRY PETH, STU GOLDMAN, SEAN
FURRIER, MAGGIE KOSINSKI, CRISSY PERHAM, NINA TRASOFF, DOT KRET and MIKE
SAGARA.
The
meeting ended with a toast, 'Life isn't about waiting for the storm to
pass...It's about learning to dance in the rain.'
Board Director Drew Vactor and Club Secretary Virginia Leavitt have been working on setting up a hospitality suite that our Club will host for the upcoming District 5500 Conference October 28-30. Since our Club is the host this is a customary practice to provide a casual venue for club members throughout the District to get together and socialize on Saturday evening October 29th. Please sign up for this fun weekend event. It promises to have some great speakers, delicious food, and time to meet and spend time with other Rotarians. Bob Ernstein is in charge of organizing this event and we don't want to let Bob down, so plan to get signed up soon to attend!
RCoT to Host Hospitality Room for District Conference
Your Board of Directors met this past week and reviewed and voted on a number of important items. The first item of business was to review a proposal from Past President Roger Harwell who suggested that we consider waiving the $300 initiation fee for any past member of our Club who left in the past four years. We have unfortunately lost a number of wonderful members because of the economic challenges of recent years. We are hoping that by waiving this fee, that some of our past members will hopefully rejoin us. If you know of former members that you'd like to have return to our Club, please use this limited incentive to encourage them to reengage with RCoT!
Your Board also reviewed our need to enforce our policies on payment of quarterly dues. Any member who is 60 days behind will receive a note requesting payment as well as a call from our Treasurer Patrick Zumbusch. Anyone who has not brought their dues current within 180 days, will be terminated from our Club. Remember, we have to pay $20 to the Doubletree for all members attending our lunch meetings and we also are required to pay our District and RI dues in advance based on our membership. It is only fair to require that all members pay their dues in a timely manner. If you have a special circumstance and need a brief payment plan to get caught up please call Patrick.
On a good note, last year's final financial report ended better than budget which helped to allow us to keep dues flat for this year. This is due to the good fiscal management of your Past President Marianne and the frugal excellence of our wonderful Executive Director, Mary, and to the oversight and control of your Treasurer, Patrick. The Board voted to have an outside financial review this year to add to the additional controls that we have put in place over the past two years. As you may recall, we have an outside firm who prepares our federal and state payroll taxes, our 990 IRS report, and our bank reconciliations.
Three years ago, Michael Drake was selected to serve as our District 5500 Governor for 2011-2012. Since that time he has been preparing for his year through various trainings, conferences, seminars and meeting with Rotarians throughout our district. On Wednesday, August 24th, he will share with us his personal favorite aspect of Rotary which is the value Rotary is as an international organization. That aspect reflects in many
Last week's speaker shared with us some of her research results from studying the aging process in humans encouraging us to continue to be active and to drink some caffeine in the afternoon. This week we will learn about opportunities to reduce stress and enhance our enjoyment of life through dance. The American Cancer Society endorses dance therapy to promote health and healing.
All of this seems to tie in well with Rotary International President Kalyan Banerjee's theme this year to "Reach Within to Embrace Humanity." Many of us join Rotary at the urging of a trusted friend or colleague not really realizing what Rotary is and does. For me, over a twenty year period, I've realized that Rotary is not only a wonderful way of giving back to my community and helping the world at large, but personally it has afforded me so many cherished friendships over the years. It allows each of us to see one another at our best and to reach within so that each of us can be our very best, surely a precious gift.
Our long time member and Past President George Hawke is having a birthday on August 17, 2011. He will be 92! He is still at the Cascades Assisted Living but has moved to a different room. He had recently been in the hospital and then spent three weeks in a rehab area of the hospital gaining strength and receiving physical therapy. He would be thrilled to hear from everyone with a card. He does not do e-mail. His address is: George Hawke 201 N. Jessica Ave. Apt. 602 Tucson, Az 8571 His phone number is the same as before: 520-298-1254 Thank you for remembering him—he will love it!
Some of our members had great success in selling Car Show tickets at the recent Tucson Motor Show weekend before last. There are a number of fun events that wll provide more opportunitiies to sell tickets in the coming weeks. These include the following:
The Little Anthony's Car Shows are on August 20th and September 3rd. This year's Corvette is available for both shows. Staffing would take two or more RCoT members. If you are interested, please contact Bob Shaff.
The Greek Festival will be held on September 22-25. Last year members who staffed this event sold a good number of tickets, ate really well, and had a great time too! Dan Chambers' team and Alan Schrope's team will be staffing this event but can use some help. Please contact Dan Chambers if you are interested in helping.
The Optimist Club Oktoberfest will be held September 30- October 2 at Hi Corbett Field. Dan Guare can use all the help you provide in selling tickets, regardless of what team you are on. Please contact Dan if you are interested.
A Tucson Meet Yourself party, held in downtown Tucson, will be held just before Our Car Show on October 14th-16th. There will be a Rotary booth that our members can help to staff and it will be a great opportunity to sell Car Show tickets. If you are interested please see Ken Flower.
All of these events offer more opportunities to increase our ticket sales. Don't forget that the easiest way to sell tickets is to send out a simple letter to friends and family explaining the purpose of our event on October 22nd, who it will benefit (Reading Seed and our selected community charities), and how easy it is to just log on to our website, purchase the tickets, give credit to you the member, and to print out their tickets at home. Easy! As of last week, 781 tickets have been sold online by 24 of our members. This is a great start! Let's keep our momentum up and make this the best Tucson Classics Car Show ever!
Kiran Easwarachandran has been dancing, doing choreography, and teaching Indian modern fusion dance for over 25 years. She has some formal training in ballet and jazz and is certified in Nia Dance as a White Belt. All this experience plus her work as a mental health therapist (trauma, domestic violence, sexual violence, women's health issues), diversity trainer and educator (adjunct facultay at ASU School of Social Work) allows her to make this dance presentation more meaningful - a mixture of dance and therapy for both the body and mind.
We had a great turn out on Wednesday for ROTARY at the Doubletree. The meeting was called to order by our beloved President JONI CONDIT. We heard a bit of the Word from CLEM LESLIE with his usual style and grace for the invocation. The pledge and song was led by ERNIE MINCHELLA who was very happy, as always, to sing “God Bless America”.
Our guests were introduced by none other than the man who needed to wing it, KEVIN WONG. Celebrating birthdays were MARCIA GILL, SUZANNE LAWDER, ANNE SEGAL and JERRY SULLIVAN.
JACK MAREK proudly introduced the newest member of ROTARY, JENNIFER HOFFMAN. The crowd of Rotarians and guests welcomed her with grand applause.
BOB SHAFF is back and will be performing an abbreviated version of his dog and pony show each week with only the slides to do the talking for him. That is a BIG change. The slides depict actual sales by team members to shame the other teams in to selling more. Remember to sell, sell, and sell those CAR SHOW TICKETS. Home Hospitality LISA FOGLE wants us to fill the gaps on the signup sheets. SID HIRSCH said there are openings for the Wine Dinner at FEASTS.
RICK RUPKEY, Sergeant at Arms, aka “LITTLE RICKEY FOR ALL FUTURE PUBLICATIONS” caused a stir with KEVIN WONG and other Rotarians by telling on them and getting money for the good of the order. Great Job, "LITTLE RICKY RUPKEY!”
President Joni gave her remarks and then went right to the program before we forgot what we were doing. Ha Ha. She strongly encouraged attendance at District 5500 Conference and to remember matching funds for Paul Harris.
VICKIE JACOBS gave a moving introduction of Doctor Lee Ryan, who spoke about aging of the brain and methods to slow this process down. I certainly listened when she said consuming Caffeine on a daily basis was ok. Dr. Ryan emphasized that aspirin is not a wonder drug and should not be taken long term. She shared MRI pictures of the brain and all of its intricacies.
President Joni made closing remarks, ending the meeting with one of her great toasts. I know it was good because I listened to it and forgot to write it down.
August is National Immunization Awareness month. The goal is to increase awareness about the importance of immunizing everyone from infants to the elderly across the world. Since the mid 1980's Rotary International has focused on eradicating polio as its signature worldwide program and we are very close to seeing that goal realized. More than 2 billion children have been immunized through Rotary's programs. However, the last four countries (India, Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Nigeria will be the hardest areas to conquer polio because of population size, terrain, and the need for multiple immunizations to overcome resistant strains.
But polio is not the only concern. Getting immunized against common diseases is a lifelong effort regardless of age, sex, race, ethnic background or country of origin. In our grocery stores we now see offers to immunize seniors against shingles. The flu season will soon be upon us and it is recommended that those of us who are not allergic to eggs or who have not had a bad reaction in the past be re-vaccinated annually with the current year's particular combination of the most likely strains of flu.
As parents prepare their children for school, students enter college, and healthcare workers prepare for the upcoming flu season, the month of August presents an excellent opportunity to remind individuals that they can help protect themselves, their families, friends, and their communities from serious, life-threatening infections by staying up-to-date with their immunizations.
On another wonderful Tucson Wednesday we opened with firefighter poem, in honor of our guest speaker.PAULINE HECHLER, Tucson Community Food Bank,
recited the poem about knowing loss before knowing kindness.The one and only SONNY SOLOT was so excited about singing that we almost skipped the pledge!Luckily he gathered himself, led us in a
proper pledge and we sang “America the Beautiful” together.We all made it through lunch and had a great
laugh as the “Rowdy Table” was very excited about our guests introduced by BOBBY LARSON.
We celebrated birthdays and heard about the amazing
contributions of DON SHROPSHIRE, our Man About
Town!Love his bow ties!He spoke of his deep admiration for his
fellow members and of his “mid-week therapy” at our weekly gatherings.I agree wholeheartedly!He made two more Paul Harris donations for
family members.
Important announcements regarding Car Show -SELL THOSE
TICKETS!Home Hospitality-PLEASE OPEN
YOUR HOME!Wine Dinner at Feast-COME
JOIN US!Operation Homefront-PLEASE
DONATE SCHOOL SUPPLIES!A shout out was
given for new member JENNIFER HOFFMAN and congratulations to CHARLOTTE HARRIS’S
mother celebrating 101 years of life.
Madam President, JONI CONDIT, gave her remarks ahead of schedule.She strongly encouraged attendance at District 5500 Membership Workshop and to
remember our matching funds for Paul Harris in of support El Tour de Tucson, which GARY HIRSH was very excited about!We received a thoughtful thank you note
from local Boy Scouts, 7000 strong in Southern Arizona.
NINA TRASOFF, who loves firefighters, introduced Mike McKendrick of the Greater Tucson Fire Foundation.The thrust of his presentation was Honor the
Past, Embrace the Present, Engage the Future.They are the group that takes care of the group that takes care of us,
so it is very important to help support them in any way we can.Mike encouraged us to visit their offices to see the 1923 fire truck restoration.He also spoke about the special needs of
firefighters for mental health care and equipment.Overall, a great reminder to be thankful for
those who put themselves in danger to help us.
Our President, JONI, had to fine
herself twice, accompanied by groans in the audience, but she was a good
sport!And she closed out the meeting
with another wonderful toast, “Do the right thing when it’s not the easy thing.”
Please welcome the following member into the Rotary Club of Tucson. He will be formally introduced to the club by his sponsor at a meeting in the
near future.
New Member: Tony Penn
Classification: Community & Social Services: United Way
We have some very busy Car Show Captains these days. If you're wondering what some of them are up to, just read on to find out about the "Milk Run" of Team Marauders led by Captain (yes, he was demoted) Kent Laughbaum!
Dear Marauders,
Yes, that’s us . . . the Marauders. 12 motivated RCOT car show ticket sellers.
And we are going to tear the place-up! Just like our namesake, the fearsome B-26 Marauder of WW2 fame.
Here are your wingmen: Richard Bratt, Paul Cinalli, Nina Daldrup, Katie Dusenberry, Ted Forsberg, Phil Gutt (your talented co-leader), Sid Hirsh, Kent Laughbaum (your humble leader), Jim Mather, Joe Nevin, Bruce Read, Mike Schmidt.
Phil and I selected you personally for this important mission . . . to sell as many tickets as possible in preparation for C-Day (Carshow Day) on 22 October 2011.
For this first mission briefing I’m going to keep it simple. WW2 bomber crews would call this a “Milk Run.”
1. Each wingman has received 50 tickets. 2. When you sell a ticket keep the stub for turn-in. Ensure that the ticket stub has the buyer’s contact details for the Corvette raffle. 3. Place the ticket stubs and cash or checks into an envelope. Ensure your name is on the outside of the envelope. 4. Find me or Phil Gutt at the Wednesday meeting and we will take the envelope.
Like I said, it’s a Milk Run!
Marauders, we have a last minute piece of pre-mission intelligence. One of our fellow wingmen, Joe Nevin, has already returned from a reconnaisance flight to report that the sky is clear, and that he successfully delivered his entire bomb bay of tickets on target. I've submitted Joe to HQ for a medal to recognize his gallantry.
OK, time to catch the jeep to our aircraft. Godspeed!
Some years ago seasoned Rotary Club of Tucson members took a look at why some relatively new members were dropping out of our club after just a short period of time. After interviewing some past members, they learned that while our club made a big deal out of new members when they were introduced, afterwards, they were left on their own to figure out where to fit in and how to get involved in a meaningful way. This led to the creation of the Mentoring Program where a new member was assigned someone who had been in the club awhile who would have a good rapport with the new member and would help to guide that member for at least the first year in Rotary. This effort supplemented our STAR program and has resulted in new members having a much better understanding of what Rotary is and what various opportunities are available for new members in our club. The mentor serves as the first formal Club contact after someone becomes a new member. The mentor helps to "show the ropes" to a new member and to share their knowledge and experience. It has a great benefit to the mentor because often this leads to special and lasting friendships. We are working hard this year to recruit new members and to retain the wonderful new members we've gained over the past year. Mentors are essential to retaining these members and we look to all of you, our current members, to volunteer to help serve as a mentor to a new member. Sometimes the person who sponsors a member to our club will also volunteer to serve as the mentor, but in some cases, another member who has much in common with the new member may be a better choice. Please let either Kevin Wong or Nina Daldrup know if you are willing to serve as a mentor as they are busy trying to match up new members and mentors!
Our club committed to providing financial support for Tucson high school students (actually for Tucson High School students since that was the only high school in Tucson at the time) entering the University of Arizona almost 70 years ago and we have been doing so ever since.Well over 1000 students have received financial support from our Club over the years. By the mid 80's we were awarding scholarships to 10 high schools but Scholarship Chair Jon Wang expanded our reach to 23 schools that included every public high school, 2 private schools, and Arizona School for Deaf and Blind.We did so for approximately 20 years. Each student was presented a Rotary Scholarship Certificate at their respective graduation or awards ceremony, and a Rotary Club member attended that ceremony to personally present to the student on behalf of Rotary Club of Tucson. Within the last decade as University tuition has risen we shifted the focus to fewer students and larger scholarships, focused on students with financial need, and we also offered scholarships to Pima Community College.At the same time, we decided to develop stronger relationships with the students by encouraging them to attend some of our meetings and/or events each year to gain a better understanding of Rotary, and by offering them additional scholarships for a total of 4 years if they meet certain criteria:attend 4 or more Rotary meetings/events each year, maintain a 2.5 GPA minimum, obtain recommendation from their school counselor, submit an application along with a brief narrative on a selected topic, and obtain approval of the Scholarship Committee.Over the years our Club has donated on the order of $1,000,000 in tuition assistance for young people seeking higher education.Last year we donated $24,800 to 12 UA students and 1 Pima student.This year we plan to support the same mix of students at the very same level.When our scholars attend our meetings and events, please introduce yourself, make them feel welcome, tell them about Rotary, and encourage them in their academic pursuits.Many of these kids are future Rotarians.Thanks to all of our members who have contributed time and money over the many decades to make this program a long standing tradition of supporting our community through higher education.
If you haven't sent out your letters to friends, family, and business associates urging them to purchase their Tucson Classics Car Show Tickets, you only have ten weeks left to sell your tickets and help your team cross the finish line with the most tickets sold! Sending them a letter explaining the purpose of the Car Show, how much fun it is for all, and directing them to buy on our website is the easiest way to get your tickets sold. Check with Past President Bob Shaff if you have any questions about using the website or ask your captain or co-captain for help. Remember to turn in all ticket stubs sold along with the associates monies to your team captain and co-captain this coming Wednesday. Remember, our goal is to exceed last year's sales by 25% so that we can use other people's money to do great things in our community and to continue to support Reading Seed!
Only Ten Weeks Until The Tucson Classics Car Show!
Dr. Lee Ryan completed her undergraduate work
at University of Toronto, received a Ph.D. in Cognitive and Clinical Psychology
at the University of British Columbia in 1992, and completed a postdoctoral
fellowship at the University of California at San Diego.She is the Director of the Cognition and
Neuroimaging Laboratories at the University of Arizona, making magnetic
resonance imaging (MRI) technology available to cognitive researchers on
campus.
The San Carlos Schools Project is the Rotary Club of Tucson’s signature International Service Project that began over 20 years ago as a joint project of the Rotary Club of Tucson and the San Carlos (Mexico) Rotary Club. This project provides a Christmas party for the children at two schools, including refreshments and a present for each child, as well as holiday food for their families. During the fiesta, we will provide refreshments served by our cadre of Rotarians, along with rice and beans for the mothers to take home. Last year we were treated to an extravaganza of student performances, presentations, and gifts to bring home made by the children. Guaranteed to start your holidays with a sense of gift giving! Also, you will enjoy fellowship and free time in beautiful San Carlos during a fun trip to provide hands on international community service – Rotary “beyond the club” at its best. We will have an evening social hosted by our San Carlos counterparts. Saturday afternoon & Sunday morning will be a “libre” (free) time to enjoy marine excursions, sightseeing, or shopping. Friday and Monday will be travel days in a full-sized motor coach, skillfully piloted by a professional driver. This will allow us time to visit and enjoy fellowship. We have blocked rooms at the Hotel Marinaterra and will make your reservations. The per-night rates are $86. In addition, attendees will pay $130 per person for transportation and refreshments on the bus. You must have a current passport to travel to and from Mexico. If you have any questions, please call Alan and Lisa Schrope at 237-0832 or email at aschrope@tucsonvah.com and we will provide the answers. Please respond promptly, as space is limited and all District 5500 clubs are invited. Sign up now!
Your next Wine Fellowship is planned at the restaurant, Feast, on Speedway for August 16th. Members Angela Baurley and Sid Hirsch are organizing this fun evening and promise that the dinner will be "yummy"!. The dinner will be a four-course menu with wine-pairings for a total cost of $55 per person including tax and tip. If you are interested, please sign up by August 10th. Contact Angela or Sid to make a reservation.
Our new Rotary year started off with a busy July! The annual Tucson Classics Car Show got off to a great start with twenty teams led by team captains and co-captains who selected their team members in the first-ever draft pick process. Ticket sales are ahead of past years and website sales well ahead of last year. The overall goal is to sell 25% more tickets than last year. Tickets are still only $5.00 a ticket for a chance to win a beautiful white 2002 classic Corvette selected by Past President Mike Anderson or $10,000 cash. Your Car Show Chair, Joe Pennington, has organized a wonderful event to generate proceeds for which 50% will go to Reading Seed and the other 50% will go to a local charity selected by our Communitiy Charities Committee. The internet site to order tickets is www.TucsonClassicsCarShow.com .
From now until November 19th, the day of the El Tour de Tucson, RCoT members have the opportunity to double their donations made to any Paul Harris Fellowship or to the El Tour Ride to End Polio. Our Club has accumulated points throughout the years which can be used for this purpose to increase donations to Rotary International for Paul Harris or Polio donations. For example, if you donate $500 towards a Paul Harris fellowship, the Club's matching points can provide you with a $1,000 Paul Harris or double the Polio Plus donations. Alternately, you can finish off a Paul Harris fellowship with a donation for half of the remaining amount. Please make use of this great opportunity! If you have any questions, just ask Assistant Governor and member, Charlotte Harris, or President Joni.
On the fourth Monday of each month the Rotary club presidents from as far south as Rio Rico and as far north as Saddlebrooke and including all of theTucson area meet for breakfast along with District 5500 Assistant Governors to share the important activities of each of their clubs. Some items that were shared at the most recent meeting on July 27th included:
Catalina Club: is trying to sponosr a Community Rotaract Club for 18-29 year olds. The next meeting is at El Parador on August 11th from 6-8 p.m.
Youth Exchange: District 5500 has nine in-bound students. There is an August 31st deadling to place all of these students. Still need six clubs to step forward to sponsor six of these yet unplaced students.
Foothills Club: is hosting a Jazz Event featuring Norman Lyles on September 16th at the Tucson Community Center.
Cienega: is working on their dictionary project with their Interact club at Empire School.
Saddlebrooke is hosting a golf tournament, their major fundraiser, on November 5th.
September 11th Tenth Anniversary Recognition Event: some clubs are organizing projects and events on the weekend of September 10th-11th to remember those that were lost on September 11th 2001. The deadline for clubs to sign up to participate is August 31st.
Rotary Leadership Institute: on August 27th, the first of three Saturday courses will be held at the Vicount Hotel from 7:30-3:30 for new members and any members interested in future leadership in their Rotary clubs. The cost of the course is $60 but each club has one scholarship available to cover the cost from District 5500.
Rincon Club: working with Habitat for Humanity to try to build a home for a deserving family. Typically the home cost is $140K and the new homeowner will carry approximately a $90K mortgage. The downpayment would require a $2500 donation by a club plus an average of $25 per member in the District (we have 1700 members in our District). This would be a good PR project for our Rotary clubs and would offer a hands on opportunity.
Middle East Group Study Exchange: The group from the Middle East will be visiting the Tucson area between October 22nd and November 20th. We can involve them in the El Tour project as well as our Car Show. Host families are needed. If you are interested in hosting one or more of these group study exchange visitors, please let Bob Logan, Board Director of International, or President Joni know. These visitors will also be here during our District 5500 Annual Conference at the Doubletree October 28-30th. We hope to have good reresentation from RCoT at this conference.
In a larger than normal room to accommodate the hamburger buffet, MICHAEL SAGARA got the meeting off to an inspiring start with an invocation about the unconditional love of mothers, and CRISSY PERHAM led us in a rousing version of “America the Beautiful.”Following the introduction of guests by KEVIN WONG, President JONI CONDIT scolded BRUCE TUNZE for not sitting at the birthday table and auctioned off his cake.Turns out it was not to be a 2-Bruce birthday, as BRUCE TUNZE reported his special day is actually in November, leaving BRUCE JACOBS to celebrate on his own.Pres JONI also recognized birthday girl and first RCOT female president KATIE DUSENBERRY.More inspiration followed as Past Presidents JON WANG and CHARLOTTE HARRIS presented Paul Harris Fellowships to Alan Ernstein, son of inaugural BILLY JOE VARNEY/GARD PIERCE award winners BOB & CHAR ERNSTEIN, and his wife Julie.FYI, BOB is chairing the October 28-30 Rotary District Conference, right here at the Doubletree.Lots of opportunities for involvement are coming up, including the San Carlos Trip led by ALAN SCHROPE, school supply drive commandeered by GINGER LEAVITT, and a wine dinner at Feast plugged by CHRIS REANEY.Home Hospitality is still in need of hosts, and the Swifter Shifters inspired us to sell car show tickets with their Car Show Rap.Big welcome to new member KEITH COBB.Special recognition was given to CLARKE DUNCAN, celebrating his 60th wedding anniversary at that very minute.DON SHROPSHIRE offered to share his fine in honor of his 61 years of wedded bliss; both agreed to purchase $100 of car show tickets. SUSAN MOORE VAULT introduced guest speaker Kim States of the Better Business Bureau, who showed us how much BBB and Rotary have in common.
Mike McKendrick is a native Tucsonan and a 30 year veteran of the fire service. As the Assistant Fire Chief for the Tucson Fire Department's Operations Division, he was responsible for all the emergency response forces for the City Tucson. Mike has a degree in Public Fire Administration from Cogswell College.
We just completed the first month of our new Rotary year. Lots of things are happening and committees are busy planning many fun and worthwhile projects and events for our members. The annual Tucson Classics Car Show got off to a roaring starts with twenty teams led by team captains and co-captains who selected their team members with the first-ever draft pick process. Ticket sales are ahead of past years and website sales are well ahead of last year. Our overall goal is to sell 25% more tickets than last year. Tickets are still only $5.00 per ticket giving the ticket holder a chance to win a beautiful white 2002 classic Corvette selected by Past President Mike Anderson or $10,000 in cash. Our Car Show Chair, Joe Pennington, has organized a wonderful event on October 22nd to generate proceeds for which 50% will go to Reading Seed and the remaining 50% will go to a local chairty selected by our Community Charities Committee. The internet site to order tickets is www.TucsonClassicsCarShow.com. Help your team sell tickets! My team captain, Alan Rogers MD, has the current status of being the most creative person to generate ticket sales: he secretly invited my parents to our meeting and convinced them to purchase tickets at the meeting just to show up the President! Very creative indeed. (Fortunately, they bought tickets from me too!) Thanks Alan for bringing them to our meeting!!
In her five years with Better Business Bureau of Southern Arizona, CEO Kim States has witnessed the good, the bad and the ugly when it comes to consumer and business behavior. Kim started her career with BBB as director of public relations, often leading investigations into unscrupulous business practices with the aim of protecting local consumers from various forms of fraud.
District 5500 sponsors a Rotary Leadership Institute (RLI) three times a year to help new members and members considering leadership roles in our clubs. The training is very interactive and offers excellent trainers and speakers. The first of these meetings is coming up on August 27th at the Viscount Hotel from 7:30-3:30. The cost is $60.00 but Governor Michael Drake has offered one scholarship per Club for an interested individual. If you are interested, please contact Joni Condit (730-9169).
In April, the Board of Directors of Reading Seed approve the merger of Reading Seed with four other literacy organizations. This decision was made with great consideration of future funding sources, the opportunity to reduce overhead due to shared spaces and administrative expenses, and the ability to have a greater impact as a continuum of literacy services in the community. Many children from grades 1-3 in Pima County have benefitted from Reading Seed's programs with the support of more than 1,000 volunteers. In 2000, under the leadership of Past-President Jim Murphy, our Club adopted a small fledgling program as our Centennial project. This program grew significantly serving many of the elementary schools in Pima County. Our Club has promised to continue to support Reading Seed through this year and next with 50% of the proceeds of our annual Tucson Car Show. Giving children the gift of reading early in life has been proven to make a difference in their overall success in their subsequent education and most likely with their future in life. Last year our club was able to provide Reading Seed with $40,000 as a result of our Car Show. Please make an effort to get your Car Show tickets sold this year so that we can do at least that well again!
Please welcome the following members into the Rotary Club of Tucson. They will be introduced to the club by their sponsor at a meeting in the near future.
Walking into today's meeting we were greeted by MARCIA KRUMWIEDE taking collections for the Community Food Bank. A great local group helping those in need! The meeting began with a BANG! C+C Music Factory was blaring from the boom box as the Cookie Caravan was "cutting the rug" with a line dance. The 25th year anniversary of the Double Tree cookie, Yummy. PAT ZUMBUSCH began with a nice invocation reminding us all about honesty, not to steal, and a reminder of the four way test. Our pledge and song was lead by CRISSY PERHAM. Nice job singing Crissy! FRANK ZUNNO lead us in a toast to remember WILL LEWIS. A fallen hero of Rotary and a leader in education. Two of Will's daughters were in attendance: Dawn and Denise. ALAN SCHROPE did a wonderful job with the intro of guests and perspective members. We had four birthday's to recognize but I guess only two were in the celebratory mood. GINGER LEAVITT, who also is a Cookie Caravanner, and RICK "Little Ricky" RUPKEY were our two birthday guests. Happy Birthday!
Past President MARIANNE honored JEFF ABBOTT with the Red Rose Award. Jeff has immersed himself in Rotary and taken the charge in making the world a better place. Thanks Jeff and we look forward to your report on the wheelchair project. We had five new Paul Harris Fellows recognized. This was a special group of first timers: TOM ANDREWS, CHERYL HOUSE, SUSAN MOORE VAULT, ELLEN WHEELER, and BRUCE TUNZE. In our announcement segment we had the 2010 mystery editors recognized, a special car show skit by LISA FOGLE and MIKE ORCUTT, and then Lisa kept the mike from Little Ricky to talk Home Hospitality. Pat Zumbush got extra podium time today when introducing our speaker Cristie Street and Oscar Fowler from Nextrio. The talk was all about Cyber crime, security, and terrorism. Sounds like there is bad guys all around us and a reason to never touch a computer again!
Art Allis, Paul Cinalli, Andy Cosentino, Bill Cozine, Nina Daldrup, Sean Furrier, Phil Gutt, George Hawke, Sid Hirsh, Suzanne Lawder, Rita Marshall, Mike Schulte, Don Shropshire, Tom Strasburg, Jerry Sullivan, and David Volk.
Call or email Mary Laughbaum to schedule the date you would like to celebrate at a Rotary meeting in August. Available Wednesday meetings are August 3,10, 17 and 24.
President
JONI CONDIT opened the meeting by asking MAGGIE KOSINSKI to lead the pledge of
allegiance and song.MIKE ORCUTT
followed with the invocation.
CAM
MOORE introduced a number of guests but no visiting Rotarians this week.
Next
came the celebration of birthdays for the week with MARY MARTIN leading
off.Mary started a Paul Harris
Fellowship in honor of her husband.ARNIE JACOBSEN shared his special birthday party with us and recognized
Burt Lazar as his sponsor into the club.
JOE
PENNINGTON led the announcement section with detailed information about the car
show.ALAN SCHROPE and CAM MOORE gave
some good tips on ticket sales.Our goal
is to sell 20,000 tickets this year!Sell.Sell.Sell.
MARCIA
KRUMWIEDE announced the Community Food Bank drive next week.Bring food and/or cash.There is a great need in our community!VICKIE JACOBS promoted the STAR meeting on Thursday,
July 21.DARRELL STEWART gave a pitch
for the CPR training on Saturday and the need for home hospitality hosts.
President
JONI read a nice thank you letter from JIM MURPHY for the Foundation’s gift to
the Pima Council on Aging.
GARY
HIRSCH introduced our speaker, Richard DeBernardis, speaking about the history
and benefits of the El Tour de Tucson.For a fairly new person to the community it was a fascinating program to
learn about a major event here in Tucson!
Past President Bob Shaff reported to your twenty team Captains/Co-Captains that we are already off to a quick start this year on Ticket Sales for our upcoming Tucson Car Show Event (October 22nd). Through this past Saturday, we have already sold 573 car show tickets Online! This is more than we sold all last year. This looks to be a great avenue for making ticket sales. It is easy to do and allows any member to email their friends, family members, and business associates with an email about what our Car Show Event is all about and how we benefit our local charities and especially Reading Seed with the proceeds. They can then buy the tickets from anywhere in the world and print out their confirmation of the tickets purchased. Painless! Remember, you each have a bundle of tickets to sell or purchase yourself but you need to return any tickets you don't intend to buy or sell because otherwise your account will be charged! Thanks so much and keep up the pace!
Twice a year we replace our regular Wednesday meeting with Home Hospitality week to allow some of our members the opportunity to host a group of our Rotary members and their significant others in their own home. Those who have hosted in the past have said that it is a fun time and provides the occasion to get to know some of our members better as well as their spouses/significant others. Our Club does pay $15 for each guest hosted even the "no shows" so it is possible to host a great party with little out of pocket expense! If you are interested, please contact Darrell Stewart who is organizing this Home Hospitality week. You can reach him by email at stewart2001@msn.com or call him at 241-7544. Thanks in advance to our hosts!
Home Hospitality for the week of August 28th-September 4th
The
greatest threat to an organization’s security is complacency. According to a recent survey conducted by
Visa and the National Cyber Security Alliance, more than 85 percent of small
business owners believe their companies are less of a target for cybercrime
than large companies.
If you are interested in learning about Best Practices for Recruiting and Retaining club members, please consider signing up for the August 6th District 5500 Membership Workshop. Don Kremer, Rotary Coordinator for Zone 26 will be the featured guest speaker on this topic. Don will provide information and data to help attendees think about how to implement a great plan to recruit and retain members. The Workshop will be held in Tucson at Pima Community College Community Campus at 401 N. Bonita Avenue. The cost is $15 for the first member to sign up and $30 for two or more members attending. Lunch and refreshments will be served. If you are interested, you can contact Doug Woodard at dwoodard@email.arizona.edu or show up at 8:30 to register the day of the seminar. The seminar will last from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Last Saturday, twenty-one Rotarians and spouses received excellent instructions on performing CPR, helping a choking person, and using shock paddles. Many thanks to the ROWDY TABLE for sponsoring this important class so that we can be better prepared for future emergency action. We hope we will never have to use it!
This month has been filled with international competitive sports, the Tour de France and the women's World Cup Soccer Tournament. Both events are wonderful examples that demonstrate that across the world there are great similarities between peoples of different countries and cultures that can help to forge better relationships. I was thrilled to see so many men and boys just as excited and involved in the women's World Cup as women and girls. Both the Tour and the World Cup emphasize that succeeding and winning is so dependent on team effort, even though there is an ultimate individual winner in the Tour de France. In spite of the disappointment that our US women lost, there was something very heartwarming that the Japanese women seemed destined to win against all odds in this terrible and traumatic year for the Japanese people. We are reminded of the Four Way Test of building better relationships throughout the world.
This year's District 5500 Conference will be hosted by our club with the theme of "Celebrating the Internationality of Rotary". Our member, Bob Ernstein, is leading the planning for this event which will be held at the Double Tree the weekend of October 28-30, the weekend after our Car Show Event. It will be an opportunity to meet and talk with Rotarians visiting from Jordan, Egypt and Lebanon. Visiting University of Arizona scholars from Japan and some of our Ambassadorial Scholars who will be going to South Africa will be there. Our own District Group Study Exchange Team led by our member and Past President Hugh Thompason will be at our conference as well. There will be wonderful speakers and lots of inspiring stories about projects and accomplishments so please mark out this weekend on your calendars as it will be fun and worthwhile!
Thank you all who attended my inaugural day as your President on July 6th! I appreciate your support and encouragement and look forward to helping to make this a fun year. I know that some of you have commented that you miss our traditional "roast" and skit of the new President. I gave it consideration but thought that perhaps some of you would like a change from the usual and would enjoy seeing what a Rotary International meeting is like. President-Elect, Jim Lubinski, may choose to do something entirely different or possibly return to the skits and roast.
I would like to correct a mistatement that I made last week: Interact Clubs are actually for high school kids, ages 14-19. When a Club sponsors an Interact Club, members usually work with a single school administration or perhaps two schools. Rotaract, on the other hand, is typically for college age people and new graduates early in their careers, ages 18-30. There is a Rotaract Club at the University of Arizona which was sponsored by the Sunrise and Saguaro Clubs. Our Club is considering a way to collaborate with another Rotary club or two to sponsor a community-based Rotaract Club as a way to foster and build younger people's interest in Rotary. If you are interested in helping with this, please contact Board Director, Cheryl House.
By the way, out of our current 233 members only 40 of you responded to the survey that our Executive Director, Mary Laughbaum, put out asking which committees you are interested in participatng in this year. If you did not respond because you assumed that you would remain on the same committees, please let the appropriate committee chair know of you interest. If you would like to participate in different committees, it isn't too late. Just check with Mary, me, or our website to find out who is charge of which committees this year.
Hopefully all of you have found out who your Ticket Sales Team Captain and Co-Captain are and you've received your envelope of tickets to sell. We have twenty teams this year who are competing to each sell the most tickets. More than 400 tickets have already been purchased online which is a really easy way to buy them. Consider sending your friends, family, and business associates an email letter asking them to help us make this the best Car Show ever by simply purchasing one or more tickets online. When they do they get their ticket purchase confirmation and numbers registered in an email without any exchange of tickets or money! It is so easy! This is also a great way for your family members or friends who live outside of Arizona to purchase Car Show tickets to possibly win that great Corvette or alternately, the cash! Like they say with the lottery, you can't win if you don't play!
The Rotary Club of Tucson has a long tradition of funding a number of scholarships annually for students attending both Pima College and the University of Arizona. Some years ago our Scholarship Committee decided to fund deserving and high performing students up to $2,000 per year for up to four years rather than just funding new freshmen each year. Tuition at the U of A has increased significantly in recent years and Pima's tuition has increased as well. Unfortunately, although some of our members now write annual checks due to IRS requirements or members are billed on their quarterly statements for scholarship donations, the total donations are down. Sometimes the cups on the tables have very little money donated. This year if all thirteen students reapply that are eligible, we would need $26,000 to sustain our prior commitments. We anticipate at the rate of donations, that we will fall substantially short of making this goal. Without enough dollars, we either need to reduce the awards per student or reduce the number of students we are helping. We'd very much appreciate your help either contributing through your quarterly billing, or by writing a check to RCOT's Foundation in support of the scholarship program, or helping us to fill our scholarship cups when they go around! Let's continue our tradition of educating our community's young people! Thank you all!
New President JONI CONDIT opened the meeting promptly. CLEM LESLIE gave the invocation to the occasion. SONNY SOLOT led the pledge and song - "This is My Country." He was well prepared but the rest of us were challenged. It is a welcome additon to our song repertoire and hopefully we will learn the words. GARY HIRSCH manned the keyboard.
JEFF RONSTADT introduced the visitors which included President Joni's support group.
Birthdays were celebrated and checks contributed by GEORGE DARLING, JIM LUBINSKI, KEVIN WONG, JEFF and JIM RONSTADT.
MARCIA KRUMWIEDE gave some very good statistics to support her request to bring checks, cash or food July 20th to support the food bank. CHARLIE MEAKER reminded us to sign up and attend CPR class July 16th. busy Car Show Chairman JOE PENNINGTON kicked off the ticket sales.
Many Rotarians miss the traditional skit that is always a fun way to start RCOT Presidents' reign. This is the second yeart without the skit and hopefully the last!
President Joni shared her experiences from the Rotary International Convention. She covered such topics as: the current state of New Orleans, and of course the food, music, and restaurants of the Big Easy. She spoke of the many facets of the convention and moments from Bill Gate's session about how close we are to eradicating polio from this earth! Applaud our new President for an enthusiastic start to the new Rotary year.
Joni introduced our Board for 2011-2012 and provided some of the goals they set out to accomlish in the coming year.
Club goals for 2011-12 were presented:
Increase Membership and form an Interact or Rotaract Club to foster youth interest in Rotary
Rotary International's Annual Fund: Every Member Every Year contribute $100
Develop Public Relations to get our message out in the community
Held annually the Saturday before Thanksgiving, El Tour De Tucson is a fun ride attracting over 9,000 cyclists of all ages and abilities from throughout the United States and beyond, consisting of novice, intermediate, advanced, and professional riders. Named "one of the premier organized rides in the United States" and
This fall will be the 19th year that Rotary Club of Tucson members will be coaches at Robison Elementary School on 18th Street, very near the Doubletree and our weekly meetings. It is a personally rewarding experience working with these young people in grades 1-3. It takes just one hour per week, during the school year, to work with two students who need attention as they are typically reading below grade level. They read to you and the following training will help you with your student(s).
If you are interested in being a reading coach at Robison Elementary, please contact Charlotte Harris with any questions and let her know of your interest and plan to attend the final Reading Seed training of the summer, so that you will be ready to begin working with students this fall. The training session is a requirement to be a reading coach and scheduled for
Thursday, July 14th - 9:00 AM to Noon
Vail School District Office
13801 E. Benson Highway
You can RSVP on the Reading Seed website at www.readingseed.org or by calling 520-798-0700, 8 am to 4 pm, Monday through Thursday (July hours).
Thank you for your consideration in volunteering for this worthwhile activity and club tradition!
Come be a Reading Seed Coach at Robison Elementary
Ever wonder what your dues cover? Patrick Zumbusch, your Club Treasurer, has done a breakdown that tells the story:
Annual Dues $1,140
$ 51.00 Rotary International Dues
$ 2.27 Rotary International Liability Insurance
$ 1.00 Rotary International Council on Legistation levy
$ 12.00 Rotary International Rotarian Magazine
$ 50.00 Rotary District 5500 Dues
$907.09 Lunch at Doubletree (47 meetings x $14.50 meal x 1.22% service x 1.091% tax)
$116.64 Club Expenses: Rent, Utilities, Insurance, Storage, Staffing, Equipment, Supplies, Postage, Training, Convention, etc.
Notes: Dues are billed quarterly as $285.00 and are not broken down into the above categories. The billing cycle occurs the first of July, October, January, and April. Attendance Exempt and Leave of Absence members, guests, and visitors are charged $20.00 per meal except for special upgrades which are charged at $25.00. Attendance Exempt and Leave of Absence member dues: $102.50 per quarter or $410 per year. Club Admission fee: $300 (does not apply to Rotarians transferring from another club).
If you have any questions please see Joni Condit, Patrick Zumbusch, or Mary Laughbaum.
Many Rotarians already use Facebook, text rather than
call, and perhaps are on Linked In or have a Twitter account, especially our
younger members.Most of us have
children and grandchildren who use these forms of social media.Companies and organizations are also starting
to use social media to help them market themselves and to communicate more
rapidly with their customers.Did you
know that our Club has a Facebook Account?
Social media is really a complement to other forms of
communication, such as our website and advertising in newspapers and
magazines.Traditional advertising like
those just mentioned are consider “pull” type of communication, pulling the
consumer in to consider our programs and services.Social Media, on the other hand, is a “push”
type of advertising or communication.Through our Facebook account or Twitter, for example, we can push
information out to our members and to others in the community.
Interestingly, people 55 years and older had the
largest increase, over 900%, in the use of Facebook last year.Social Media, unlike traditional advertising
or communications, is twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week, so it needs
to be monitored closely like a small child and updated regularly.Your Club Director, Alan Schrope, is in
charge of PR this year.He and his
committee will be focusing on updating our Facebook page, and our website to
communicate the good projects our Club does, what Rotary is all about, and to
hopefully recruit new members.If you
are interested or have skills in this area, please contact Member, Alan
Schrope.
Our very own Alan Schrope has been chosen to lead a group of Rotarians from all of the southern Arizona Rotary clubs to help create an understanding and appreciation of Southern Arizona Rotary Clubs' contributions to our communities, our country, and our world. The focus will be to create mechanisms to communicate this both to Rotarians and non-Rotarians.
Alan Schrope to Lead Southern Arizona Rotary Communications Project
Our own
Past-President Hugh Thompson has been selected by District 5500 to lead the
next GSE team.From November 11th to
December 11th, this team will visit the brand new Romala Club, Egypt, Jordan,
and Bahrain.They are still looking for
team members to go on this trip.Please
let Hugh know if you know of young professionals between the ages of 25-40
years old.Interviews will be conducted
starting on July 10th so act fast!
Car
Show Chair, Joe Pennington, Past-President, Bob Shaff, along with one of our friendly local bankers, John Lewis, gathered together the captains and co-captains who
will coach twenty ticket sales teams on Tuesday afternoon at El Parador
Restaurant.Under the influence of
chilled margaritas and beers, the captains took turns drafting their teams.This resolved the complaint from past year’s
when captains said they wanted to select their own teams.Each team has eleven or twelve members who
will each be given 50 bar-coded tickets to either sell or turn back in.(Unsold tickets must be turned back in or
they will be charged to the Rotarian’s account!). By July 13th all club members should have
their fifty tickets to get started.Remember, you can get your friends and family to buy tickets
online.Let’s all make this the best
Tucson Classics Car Show ever!
Thank you
to all of our Members for so warmly welcoming me as your President for the
coming year.Your Board of Directors
held its first official Board meeting on June 29th where they approved our
revised Strategic Plan and Budget for the coming year.I can promise you that your Board is going to
work very hard to make this a fun-filled year that will focus us on doing great
things for our community and beyond.We
are most sensitive to the economic challenges that many of our members are
facing.Because of this, the Board approved
a budget that has no increase in dues for this year in spite of rising costs in
our operations.Our Club’s lifeblood is
our members.Without retaining and
recruiting members, our Club cannot continue to operate in the wonderful
tradition it has for so many years.This
past year we lost a number of members due to financial hardship or death.Our members brought in more than twenty new
members but it still wasn’t enough to cover the number we lost.If everyone would bring in one member this
year, our Club will flourish!
Be sure
to join the fun this Wednesday when new President Joni Condit leads her first
meeting.Joni will share her experiences
from Rotary International Convention held in New Orleans at the end
of May.She will show photos of the
international community of Rotary along with the special sights from the unique
city of New Orleans and the French Quarter. Joni will describe moments from Bill Gate’s plenary session on
the third day of the convention and talk about how close we are to eradicating
polio from this Earth! President Joni will
introduce your Board for 2011-2012 and provide some of the goals they have set
out to accomplish in the coming year.
Rotary Club of Tucson is Dark this Wednesday, June 29, 2011. There is no no make-up required. We look forward to seeing you at President Joni Condit's first meeting on Wednesday, July 6, 2011.
MARIANNE FREITAS gave her last hurrah as our President for 2010-2011 and boy, did she do a good job. It’s not easy rounding up a bunch of energetic and active men and women and leading them for an hour and 20 minutes but she did so all year long with much success. Congrats MARIANNE on a fantastic job as KEN LIGHT gave the blessing with a touching story about Marines and a reminder to remember all military men and women in harm’s way.
Committee representative, DON ROLLINGS came to the podium bearing beautifully arranged flowers by IRENE DECKER for our outgoing President MARIANNE, and placed them next to another beautiful vase of flowers ‘in sympathy’ given by husband, Chuck Freitas. This is a tough way to receive floral arrangements. DON led us in the pledge and My Country Tis Of Thee, sans piano and it still sounded beautiful.
The introductions of guests were announced by JESSE THORPE. Those guests in attendance were Chuck and Chel Freitas, Judy Aitken and Roxanne Morales. June birthday babies at the head table were MONTE CLAUSEN, MARCIA KRUMWIEDE, and ERNIE MINCHELLA. Happy Birthday!
Our always important club announcements included the following: JOE PENNINGTON reminded us that we have exactly 4 months to go until our ever-successful car show happens on October 22. The big kickoff is July 13 and draft day is next Tuesday, 6/28. HUGH THOMPSON, the newly selected GSE leader, announced a future trip to the Middle East in November-December and is asking for suggestions of team members,25-40 years of age, to take advantage of this wonderful growth opportunity. PAT ZUMBUSCH reviewed some of the car show internal control changes that have recently been implemented. IRENE DECKER took a membership moment to remind us to bring in a new member to our Rotary Club. The newly-created GEORGE HAWKE award was bestowed on our lovely and forever hard-working CHARLOTTE HARRIS for bringing in the most new members this year.
President, MARIANNE FREITAS, gave an overview of her year in office for the program presentation. Much was done and much was achieved. Phew! Instead of MARIANNE giving her final toast to the members this past meeting, a toast should have been given to her - For all that you did this very past year, we appreciate it all and hold you dear”.
If you come to the Doubletree next Wednesday, you’ll be sitting by yourself. Remember that we go dark on 6/29.
To the 140 of you who attended, we hope you enjoyed the Change of Administration party on June 25th. There was excellent food & service (thanks to JESSE THORPE of Skyline Country Club), organized party plans (thanks to GINGER LEAVITT, RITA MARSHALL and Mary Laughbaum), a continuous slide show of pictures from 2010-2011 (thanks to KENT LAUGHBAUM), new Red Rose awards given (see accompanying article), a very meaningful invocation given by PAT ZUMBUSCH, a special Paul Harris Fellow given to ALAN SCHROPE, and a smooth transition of leadership from now Past President MARIANNE FREITAS to new President JONI CONDIT and her Board.
Eleven "stayed to the end", enjoying the band's music, dancing, and upholding a reputation that Rotarians are not "old fogies"! In this photo, taken at 10:00 PM, were MARIANNE & Chuck FREITAS, Lynette & former member Pat Patton (hidden in the back between Joni and Pat Lennan), Darlene & PAT LENNAN, Judy & LEE AITKEN, JONI & Bill CONDIT and Joni's assistant Janette Fisher.
The Rotary Club of Tucson Helen Middleton Red Rose award is loosely tied to the Rotary annual theme which in 2010-2011 was "Building Communities, Bridging Continents". This award was named in memory of Helen Middleton who was our club secretary for many years, and is presented to a member whose service has been consistent but has not been recognized.
Thanks to DOT KRET for sharing one of her red rose photos and her son David for the design layout for this award.
At our Change of Administration party June 25th we awarded two of these awards:
DAVID PASHKOW is a Paul Harris Fellow, was sponsored by GARY GETHMANN and is a retired financial commodities broker. David has consistently been a strong supporter of our Tucson Classics Car Show since he joined our club in May of 2007. He spends countless hours at car shows around our state to promote our show and attract car entries. He is part of the Strategic Leadership Team for the Car Show, has planned and managed the children's area every year, and has been in charge of handling emergencies as they might occur on the day of the show.
Our second recipient is LARRY PETH. Larry has been a member since October of 2005 (after leaving and then returning) and his sponsor was Dick Kincade. His classification is Retailing: Aircraft Sales, and he is with Taino Air. Larry's passion is quite obvious when you look at his history of involvement with our club. For many years Larry, along with wife Patty, spearheaded the San Carlos project, but this year his true focus has been on a new international project. He sought out the project, wrote the grant request, and now that it is approved is overseeing the Solar Lighting project at the Arusha School in Tanzania. Larry happens to also be the son-in-law of Helen Middleton!
BRUCE TUNZE has been a member of our club since December 2008 and is on a number of committees. Bruce's involvement in our club includes Guest and Visiting Rotarian introductions, giving the Invocation, the Environmental Committee and hosting a number of wine tasting events at his home.
As a independent representative of Colonial Life, he works with
business owners and their insurance brokers to help enhance the employee
benefits plan. His services include but are not limited to;
- Additional benefit choices to complement the Medical
plan at no cost to the company,
- Comprehensive benefits communication and education for the
employees, on all the insurance and benefit plans, so they can truly appreciate
the employers investment.
- Electronic enrollment of all employee benefits, eliminating the
need for paper enrollment forms and manual data entry.
- Benefit Statements that show employees the dollar value of all
the employer paid benefits, (their "hidden paycheck").
- Dependent verification so the business owner knows that all the
dependents covered on their plan are indeed eligible.
- No cost "Section 125" plans that allow the employer to
offer qualified insurance plans on a pre-tax basis.
- Complimentary access to a comprehensive Human Resources
website through Commerce Clearing House, ($1200/year value).
All of these services are available to all of his clients companies, regardless of size, at no cost.
Thank a Tucsotarian Sponsor - Colonial Life and Bruce Tunze
I want to share this good news with you. I know that many Rotarians in your clubs have been asking about us and others. Many thanks to all who have expressed concern and who have kept us in your prayers.
I know of no Rotarians whose homes have been lost. I know that many Rotarians in the "line of fire" were evacuated, and I am sure that some suffered some damage to their homes. As I learn more, I will try to keep you informed so you can inform your members. I can confirm that our entire Dead Bear Draw neighborhood is unscathed by the fire. I received photos from a friend who actually went to our house, and it appears the fire completely missed this area.
Of course, my prayers remain for the safety of the fire fighters (more than 1000) who continue to battle the blaze, and for the more than 50 families and business owners who lost thieir properties, and for other families who might remain in shelters..
I believe the fact that our neighborhood was saved is a miracle - truly one of God's blessings. More than 40 homes were destroyed to our south in the first days of the fire. About the time we evacuated on Wed, the fire raged to our east, scorching large areas but apparently destroying no homes (although some may have been damaged). Later, several more homes and businesses were lost to our north and northeast. And of course, the fire continues to burn in Miller Canyon to our west.
So, the reality is that the fire came on all four sides of our neighborhood. (To put it in perspective, Dead Bear Draw has 17 homes. The contiguous Vista Grande area has many more. But in all these areas cover about one square mile.) I think the closest was on the south, where I am sure it was within meters of our neighbors. I believe this miracle was in large part due to the professionalism and dedication of the fire teams who risked their lives to save property. I have the utmost respect and admiration for these brave men and women.
I hope you will continue to keep them in your prayers (and all others who have been affected by this tragic event). As I said, Sally and I were impacted very little because we were blessed to have our home in Tucson.
Ernie Montagne Rotary International District 5500 Governor 2010-11
1. We will be "Dark" June 29th which means there will be no meeting with no make up required. Get ready to welcome JONI CONDIT as she begins her term as your new President. Have a safe 4th of July and we will see you for Joni's first meeting Wednesday, July 6th.
2.Don't forget the membership challenge by our anonymous donor. Please invite a prospective member to come to one of our meetings. Everyone, BRING IN ONE!
3. Our Group Study Exchange in Rotary year 2011-12 is with District 2450 in the Middle East. The team departs November 11 and returns December 9, 2011. Our own HUGH THOMPSON has been chosen as the Team Leader! Team Members will soon be chosen. The application deadline is June 29, 2011. Do you, your employer, employees, or your children know someone between the ages of 25 and 40 who might be interested in a month almost fully paid trip to the area where civilization began? Please contact anyone that you think may be interested and ask them to call Hugh Thompson at 299-4930 or e-mail him at hct3rathill@me.com. Please take five minutes to think of one person and help us assemble the best team ever.
This is my last column as your President. It has been my privilege and honor to represent this club and has been a joy to see all that we have accomplished. Be proud of all that you have done and continue to do good things.
I am sure you will give JONI and her Board the same support you gave me as they begin their terms of office. Especially important is the support of our one and only fundraiser, the Tucson Classics Car Show. It is the success of this one fundraiser that allows us to do so much in our community and in the world. JOE PENNINGTON is working hard to get everything in place for what should be our best show, yet! We need every Rotarian to first sell tickets, and then work the show. Your 100% participation in these two tasks are crucial to a successful show.
Thank you EVERYONE for a great year and keep up the great work!
I've
been fortunate to have been selected to be the Group Study Exchange leader for
a one month trip to the Middle East this Nov.-Dec. We need a few good men and
women to join me in visiting this fascinating area. Rotary International closely follows State Department
guidelines and will not let us go if the pot begins to boil.
Do
you know, or your employer or employees know, or your kids know, someone
between the ages of 25 and 40 who might be interested in a month almost fully paid
trip to the area where civilization began?Please contact any one that you think may be interested and ask them to
call me at 299-4930 or e-mail me at hct3rathill@me.com.
Please take five minutes to think of one
person and help us assemble the best team ever. Thank you for your help. Hugh Thompson
Keep in your thoughts and prayers the citizens of Arizona who are in harm's way with the rampant fires. Consider helping in any way you can. American Red Cross is always in need and funds can be earmarked for the specific cause. Others are collecting goods for displaced families.
I have been asked by Car Show Chairman JOE PENNINGTON to share with Club Rotarian’s some of the internal control changes that have recently been implemented. The purpose of these changes is to maintain the integrity of the financial statements and stewardship of funds for both the Rotary Foundation and the community.
Some context for you in that light:
A. The one-day affair called the TCCS is now bigger in size financially than the Rotary Club of Tucson’s annual budget. Accordingly, we need to have commensurate controls in place.
B. The financial documentation process and the related internal control procedures began last November upon request from the Foundation Board. While I drafted most of the control procedures for the Car Show, participating with me was a specially designated Foundation ad hoc committee created for that purpose. I want to thank and acknowledge those members; JIM LUBINSKI, RICHARD BRATT, GARY GETHMANN, and ARNIE JACOBSEN.
The document itself is fairly extensive; it is 7 pages long, accompanied by 12 separate appendices, which together outline 17 specific Internal Control Procedures. In interest of time and relevancy to Rotarians, I’m going to mention only 4 of those internal controls here;
1. Each year an annual budget will be prepared. This budget forms the pre-approved spending guideline for the Committee Chairs. Any expenditure deviating from this budget by more than $250 must be pre-approved by the Car Show Chairman.
2. All disbursements over $2,500 will require competing bids be solicited (this is the same procedural limit that exists for the Club itself in its policies).
3. Checks or disbursements over $5,000 will require two signatures to approve.
4. An outside accounting firm will be called upon to compile and present completed bank reconciliations on a monthly basis so that an independent set of eyes is added.
The formalization of TCCS controls assure that this large fund raiser continues to hold high integrity in its accountability as well as providing a written record to ease the transition for new leaders becoming involved in the Car Show. Any further or specific questions are openly invited and should be directed to me.
At our meeting last wednesday Sonny Solot (left) presented Herschel Kreloff with the Rotary Club of Tucson's Four Way-Test Award. This award is our club recognition for a non-Rotary member in our community who lives the Four-Way Test.
Herschel received an Arizona State University Band Scholorship where he earned his BA and MA. While at Arizona State University he was an outstanding member of the Sun Devil Band. Being an accomplished trumpet player he also performed solo trumpet with the Phoenix Symphony Orchestra.
Leaving Phoenix, he moved to Tucson to attend the University of Arizona. He received his Music Doctorate from University of Arizona during which time he also played solo trumpet with the Tucson Symphony. He has been the Music Director for 14 years for the Tucson Concert Band and for about 30 years for The Civic Orchestra of Tucson. He served as a teacher for Tucson Unified School District for 30 years. Herschel brings music to Tucson's population in many ways and makes it possible for amateur musicians to perform in Tucson Bands and Orchestras.
The Orville McPherson Award is our club's most prestigious award, presented to a member of our club who exemplifies the ideals of Rotary. The recipient would be a Rotarian who consistently makes our club a special place for all of our members.
JIM RONSTADT has been a member of our club since June 1, 1980. He was President 1989-90, is currently on our Foundation Board and heads the Classifications Committee. Jim is a 4th generation Tucsonan, a devoted family man, married almost 49 years with 3 children and 5 grandchildren. With a name known all over town, he has done it all! His passion for his family and community is quite apparent in all he does. Most recently, the entry plaza at the Randolph Park Zoo was named to honor his support and involvement with the Parks and Recreation Department where he was Director from 1978-1998. Jim truly exemplifies the purpose behind this award.
Congratulations Jim!
Jim Ronstadt - New Orville McPherson Award Recipient
Two members recognized a need and took action this week - making a generous donation of a new desk chair for the Rotary Club of Tucson office, with the possibility of another chair in the near future. The members did not want public praise, yet our gratitude is heartfelt and your gift is most appreciated. Thank you for exemplifying service above self!
PRESIDENT MARIANNE FREITAS commenced the meeting with the
ringing of the bell.She announced with
great sadness the passing of former member, BEN WALLIS.A moment of silence was held to honor
Ben.The invocation was done by SUZANNE
LAWDER, alum from the Dark Side, ASWho.MARY MARTIN (wasn’t she also Peter Pan), led us in the Pledge and Song
with musical accompaniment by light fingers GARY GETHMANN.
We had a superb repast of chicken Caesar salad and those oh
so delightful low calorie cookies (low if you left them on the plate)
JIM RONSTADT introduced our many guests today.
Happy Birthday to CHERYL HOUSE, GORDON GRAHAM, CHARLIE
O’DOWD, DARRELL STEWART AND Jim Ronstadt.
SONNY SOLOT announced the recipient of the 4 Way Test Award,
Herschel Kreloff, who is active with the Tucson Concert
Band for 12 years and the Tucson Civic Orchestra for 30 years.President Marianne presented the Orville
McPherson award (the most prestigious award) to none other than our birthday boy,
Jim Ronstadt, who was speechless, except to say that he loved his wife.Paul Harris Fellows were introduced and
recognized by CHARLOTTE HARRIS and BOB LOGAN.This was a family affair as the following Rotarians and their families
were recognized, all of which are multiple Paul Harris Fellows: JIM NAUGHTON,
VIRGINIA LEAVITT, JOHN MCCALEB and ED COLE.
Announcements were done and PAT (Strong Arm) LENNAN
challenged the following to arm wrestling:
Mary Martin, BOBBY LARSON and GINGER LEAVITT, and Charlie
introduced our 2 new members – JIMMY COX and JERRY HARRIS,.
JIM LUBINSKI introduced our speakers, Jim DeGrood and Rob
Samuelson, who gave an update on RTA.
Getting back to the infamous Rowdy Table:They are really great Rotarians and have
agreed to pay for CPR on July 16th.Come
on out and get trained and have fun.
Marianne Freitas, President of Rotary Club of Tucson 2010-2011, will share a presentation of the Year in Review. Join us this Wednesday, June 22, as President Marianne presides over her final meeting. An informative report of the entire membership's accomplishments will be sure to impress all who attend.
Wow! Has this year ever flown by for me - especially the last 6 months! As I compiled the information for my Year End Report, I was amazed to see all that we have accomplished. If you attend my last meeting as President on June 22nd, there will be a copy of my Year End Report on each table.A personal copy will be included with your July 1st quarterly billing. This Wednesday, as our program, I will narrate a slide presentation about our year.
It is impossible to recognize everyone who has been such an important part of running this club and accomplishing great things. Forgive me if I do not recognize some as there is not enough room in the report, or time at a meeting to do so. Please know that every one of you is IMPORTANT to this club. Keep doing the great things you have done!
My deepest appreciation to my Board and to all our members who worked so hard to make this such a terrific year. Please join me as we welcome JONI CONDIT as our new President 2011-2012. It's going to be another great year!
Jim DeGrood is the Director of Transportation Services for Pima Association of Governments. He is a Professional Engineer, and a graduate of the University of Arizona, College of Civil Engineering. Mr. DeGrood has over 30 years of local government and private sector public works experience. Prior to joining Pima Association of Governments in 2007, Mr. DeGrood served as an Assistant Town Manager for the Town of Marana. During his career he has worked with most of the local governments within the region, including engagements with the City of Tucson, Pima County, and the Towns of Oro Valley and Marana. He also served as the Town Engineer for the Town of Sahuarita.
MARIANNE FREITAS opened the meeting last Wednesday for her third to last official duty for RCOT as our revered president.JACK PARRIS followed with a most appropriate invocation and DAN GUARE and GARY GETHMANN joined to help us sing our national hymn, "America."CHARLIE MEAKER made it through the introductions with hardly a wobble on the pronunciation of names. Being allowed to celebrate their birthdays for one whole minute DENNIS DRISCOLL (guest introduction and photography committees), GARY HIRSCH (Reading Seed and Work Projects committees), JAN SEAGONDOLLAR (Table Centerpieces and Reading Mentor), and FRANK ZUNNO (Vocational Service and Career Development committees) took the floor and mike.
CHARLOTTE HARRIS introduced new members PAULA REGISTER and LETTY RAMIREZ, who along with ANDY COSENTINO, make up the great Carondelet corporate team in our club. BOBBY LARSON reminded folks about the invitation to attend the Padres baseball game evening.JOE PENNINGTON and DOT KRET promoted our car show. DOT led enthusiastic cheers and JOE presented a cool video about our car show later this year. GINGER LEAVITT refreshed our memory of the Change of Administration Party on June 25.
A picture of STU GOLDMAN dressed in costume for a Centurion affair earned him a recognition fine. He cheerfully paid with a commitment to buy car show tickets for a squad of military personnel. (Webster: a squad is the smallest unit of military personnel). ANDY COSENTINO introduced the speaker, Dr. Eric Sipos, Carondelet Neurological Institute. A year ago he told about plans for the institute and in his presentation last week he explained how it had progressed and showed slides of the equipment in the program.He described CNI as the largest and most comprehensive program in Southern Arizona dedicated to the treatment of neurological disorders.
At 1:20 President MARIANNE gave a toast and officially closed the meeting until next Wednesday.
CAMERON "Cam" MOORE joined our club in April of 2007. He has since been an active team member of the Home Hospitality committee, Car show, will be working on the Tucsotarian sponsorships in the coming Rotary year and will be a Co-Team leader for Car Show ticket sales for this year's car show. Cameron is owner of Arizona Business Equipment and has provided his company's wonderful service to several of our members, including our Rotary office (copier).
Arizona Business Equipment Inc. is a full service copier and office equipment dealership covering all aspects of new equipment solutions, service, and supplies. Established this year and experiencing rapid growth, they support Tucson and the surrounding community. Arizona Business Equipment offers the newest in copy and print technology solutions for all size organizations from large full color multi-function copy, print, scan, and fax equipment to small desktop solutions for the home and/or small offices. They are factory-authorized and trained on the award winning NEC and Panasonic office equipment.
In addition to great equipment, they also offer unmatched service and support including regular scheduled preventative maintenance with on-site service, parts, labor, and supplies (i.e. toner, drum) included in our maintenance contracts. Arizona Business Equipment offers convenient consultations for organizations looking to streamline their office printing and copying needs. Please contact Cameron Moore at 888-COPY (2679) for all your office equipment needs.
ClubRunner has announced their ClubRunner Mobile App is now available for download. Released on May 4, 2011, the mobile application is your key to connect to the Rotary Club of Tucson website on the go. Completely free to download and use, password protected, this app is comprised of three modules. You now will have the ability to view your membership directory, articles posted to the website, and locate the nearest club right from your iPhone or iPad. Mobile Apps for Blackberry and Android phones will be released in the near future. Check out the details and download your ClubRunner Mobile App today by clicking here.
Modern facilities and compassionate care - the Carondelet Neurological Institute is the largest and most comprehensive program in southern Arizona dedicated to the treatment of neurological disorders and injuries. The Institute is designed for the delivery of complete, personalized care in a comfortable environment. Dr. Eric Sipos presented an update on the Institute's work to the club.
Dr. Eric Sipos - Carondelet Neurological Institute
After some confusion as to the name of the bank he works for, our meeting began with JOHN LEWIS giving a fine invocation. ERNIE MINCHELLA provided his usual Italian flavor to the pledge and song. Word has it that ERNIE chose "God Bless America" after being turned down for "Il Canto degli Italiani" and "Volare."
BURT STRUG's daughter, Kerri, was recognized for being admitted to the University of Arizona and Olympic Halls of Fame. No word yet on whether her brother Kippy will also be inducted. BURT noted that he was a much better "reproducer" than doctor, eliciting a few horrified gasps from his patients in the crowd. He and PAT ZUMBUSCH were congratulated on their birthdays.
LARRY ADAMSON, who joined the Rotary Club of Tucson in 1971, introduced our newest member, TOM ELLINWOOD. LARRY celebrated the event by sporting the same pair of glasses and hairstyle he wore in 1971. After a ten minute introduction our new member took all of 20 seconds to thank us.
GARY HIRSCH showed us in a slideshow the good work done by Rotarians in establishing a garden at the Marshall Home. It's nice to see a bit more green in Tucson.
BOB ERNSTEIN introduced our speaker, M. J. Vuinovich, Rotary Peace Fellow. She gave a nice combination video presentation/speech that pretty much summed up the ultimate goal of Rotary, and how our dollars are used well to further our mission. As PRESIDENT FREITAS noted, the money doesn't just stay in Evanston, but I am sure they take a little off the top.
The meeting adjourned about 1:30 p.m., which is 1:20 p.m. Rotary time but ten minutes later for the rest of the world.
The May wine event was a five course dinner at Jonathan's Cork -- very nice evening. Thanks to Angela, Danielle, Rita and Darrell for organizing. Click below for a photo review:
MARCIA KRUMWEIDE is in Corporate Marketeing for this week's highlighted Tucsotarian sponsor. She has been a member of our club since July 2005. She is currently on your Board of Directors, approaching the last year of her two year term as Community Services Director. Marcia also has been very active in the annual Car Show, as a Team Leader managing the Admissions area for several years.
Copper State Communications had been in business since 1982, providing many businesses in Tucson and across Arizona a “one stop shop” for all of their Telecommunications and IT requirements. We sell and service telephone equipment from Avaya, ShoreTel, Mitel, eZuce and Toshiba. The business partnerships we have with Qwest, TW Telecom, Integra, Paetec and 60+ additional telecommunications providers allows us to assist companies with selecting the most appropriate, cost effective services for their phone and internet needs. Our Certified Network Engineers can assist with all of your networking requirements including installation and training. Copper State Communications is also part of the ACN (Apple Certified Network).
The Rotary Club of Tucson meeting was called to order at 12 noon by MARIANNE FREITAS. Sitting with her at the head table were guest Mike Tully and JAKE STRUBLE. Birthday Members seated at the head table were IRENE DECKER, BOB LOGAN, JOE NEVIN, SCOTT VAUGHAN, and BOB WEBB.
The theme of the day was our upcoming Memorial Weekend and all the family and friends we remember who have died and served our country. PAULINE HECHLER gave the invocation which was an Indian poem. DON ROLLINGS led the Pledge of Allegiance and we all sang, "My Country 'tis of Thee!" or "America" with resounding and fabulous harmony. What a wonderful feeling to listen and join in with so many vibrant voices! GARY GETHMANN accompanied us all as we sang on piano!
Introductions of guests and visiting Rotarians were made by KEVIN WONG.
All the birthday guests had a chance to speak about what Rotary means to them.
SUSAN MOORE VAULT, a new member, was introduced by CHRISTINE HARVEY.
Photos of the wheelchair to be provided by the World Community Service Wheelchair Equipment Project of our Club were shown on the slide show. Birthday celebrant BOB LOGAN, donated $200 to buy the first wheelchair for this project. The wheelchair will be at a future meeting.
Paul Harris Fellows were introduced. There were six recipients - three received +5 pins: JOE PENNINGTON, DON ROLLINGS, and JAN SEAGONDOLLAR. MAGGIE KOSINSKI, still a new member, received her Paul Harris Fellow certificate, and MARIANNE received her +2 pin and very cute bikini tops to go with it - one being red, white, and blue!
Announcements: On June 21 there will be a "Rotary Outing with the Padres" at 7 pm - $18.50 adults, $15 for kids, so everyone, let's go out and see and cheer on the Padres. I went a couple of weeks ago after our speaker and had a blast!
JAKE STRUBLE introduced our guest of honor: Mike Tully, CEO of AAA Arizona. He gave a very timely speech to all of us about using our phone while driving, texting especially (oops, I did it on the way to Rotary!) and how he needs our help to get our State legislature to pass laws to make it illegal. He cautioned us all to be mindful of others on the roadway and to take care. We also learned of the history of AAA and how they helped us have safer roads over the years since the early 1900's.
President Marianne ended the meeting with a toast. Happy Memorial Day to you all!
Over the last 15 years MJ Vuinovich has traveled, worked and studied in over 30 countries. She is originally from Fremont, Nebraska and holds a B.A. in Journalism from the University of Montana. As an undergraduate, she participated in a one year cultural exchange with the University of Ghana, in West Africa. While there she was first exposed to Rotary, personally witnessing the distribution of Polio vaccine in some of the most remote areas of the country.
In 2003 Ms. Vuinovich was awarded an Ambassadorial Scholarship for the Universidad del Salvador in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Through contact with the participating university, a local Rotaract Club and service projects, she became deeply interested in the Peace Fellowship and developed a keen appreciation for Rotary's expansive international programs. Ms Vuinovich went on to complete her M.A. in Peace in Conflict resolution at the University of Queensland, Australia. her academic pursuits as a Peace Fellow were augmented with an internship in the Cairo office of the International Organization for Migration, conference opportunities throught the Asia Pacific and a professional partnership program with the Australian Department of Immigration and Citizenship.
In an effort to build upon the solid academic and cultural foundation established through her engagement with Rotary, Ms. Vuinovich is pursuing a Juris Doctorate at the University of Arizona. She intends to focus her skill set in rule of law initiatives and human rights protection.
MJ Vuinovich, World Peace Fellow and Ambassadorial Scholar
President MARIANNE FREITAS welcomed everyone and MARCIA KRUMWIEDE read a nice poem for the invocation (even CHARLIE O’DOWD was inspired!) CLEM LESLIE led the pledge and song, accompanied by GARY GETHMANN.
Guests were introduced by JEFF RONSTADT and we said Happy Birthday to BRIAN GOLDSTEIN, PAT RASKOB and 2013 Car Show Czar CHUCK SAWYER. Birthday Boy JOHN McCALEB thanked his sponsor ACE BUSHNELL, who is “up there selling raffle tickets to someone!” and PAT LENNAN (who enjoyed having BOB LOGAN hold the mic for him) honored MONTE L. CLAUSEN (the ‘L’ stands for Loophole!).
BRUCE TUNZE (aka DANIELLE BAILLIERE) reminded everyone about the wine tasting party on Tuesday at Jonathan’s Tucson Cork at 6 pm. Elizabeth Campbell shared exciting news and gave us a preview of the changes coming for Reading Seed.
GEORGE KRAUJA (Fennemore Craig) and DAVE DIAMOND (Goldberg and Osborn) were honored for being super lawyers and contributed $500 each (which they said was even more than one billable hour!).
Marianne and JOHN McCALEB announced that GEORGE HAWKE was named as a lifelong Honorary Member of our club and introduced a new award, to be given in George's honor each June to the Rotarian who has sponsored the most new members. When those who had been sponsored by him were asked to stand, half the people in the room rose to their feet. Thank you, George, from the other half, who joined in the Standing O!
As Bob Logan introduced our guest speaker and newest Honorary Member, U of A Athletic Director GREG BYRNE, the lights went out. As sunlight streamed into the room with the breeze when the doors were opened, Greg told us of his equestrian feats, new plans and broad community support (including his favorite text message: “Help, I’m at Target and can’t tell who works here since everyone’s wearing red!”).
The meeting ended with a raffle and a toast. And lights!
The first wheelchair has come off the "assembly line" at our Nogales, Sonora factory. This historically-sized grant supports the creation of this factory which employs a handicapped person who will build these custom, heavy duty, all-terrain wheelchairs for other handicapped people. Funds for the grant were a combination of Rotary International ($16,500), District 5500 ($10,000) and RCoT ($12,000). To assist us with oversight, a partnership has been established with the Club Rotario Nogales Sur in Nogales, Sonora.
Special thanks to JIM LUBINSKI and JEFF ABBOTT who have been so diligent getting this project off the ground. There will be an updated report at a meeting in the near future as well as a display of an actual chair produced at our factory.
At our meeting May 18th, GEORGE HAWKE, was recognized as a new Honorary Member of the Rotary Club of Tucson. This distinction recognizes George for his meritorious service in the furtherance of the Rotary ideals: 1) Integrity in all we say and do, and 2) service for the improvement of our local and international communities.
George is a past and 49th president of our club (1969-1970). He was married to Mildred for 63 years, a WWII veteran, a past president of Tucson Country Club, and is parent to Sharon, Nancy and Bob. George and Mildred also hosted an exchange student. He had a stellar career in the swimming pool business as a partner in Whitaker Pools and later joined Falcon Pools until his retirement. His beautifully designed pools can be seen all over Tucson!
Unfortunately, we don't have records to determine an exact number, but we do know that George has sponsored well over 50 members into our club since joining in 1957. George has served on the classifications committee and continues to spread the word of Rotary, sponsoring good friend BILL LINDAMOOD less than a year ago. In appreciation of his phenomenal support of Rotary, a new annual award in George's name will begin June 2011 for the member of our club who has sponsored the most members from July 2010 through June 2011.
Club member KEN LIGHT is President and CEO of the Jewish Community Center. Ken has been a member since September 1991, is a past Board member, is on the Invocations committee and will co-chair the Programs committee with JIM LUBINSKI this coming July.
The Tucson Jewish Community Center is a not-for-profit social service institution that has been meeting the needs of Tucsonans since 1949. While we are a Jewish institution, we are not a religious organization, seeking instead to meet the needs of both the Jewish and general community with social, cultural, educational, and recreational services.
We begin with 6 week old infants in a childcare/preschool serving approximately 350 children under the age of 5, and continue with after school care, summer camp, services for adults, media arts, and arts and culture. We have a full-day program for young adults with special needs and a fully inclusive special needs component for children in preschool, after school and summer camp programs as well. Completing our array of services is a comprehensive sports and wellness department with over 100 classes/week and an equal number of teams involved in league play for kids and adults. The facilities provide programming in fitness, basketball, tennis, racquetball/squash, and aquatic areas with swim teams, lessons, and a Masters program as well. Rounding out the facilities is a splash park for kids, ball fields, and a newly established sculpture garden. Membership is open to all with scholarships available for those unable to afford the full cost of services. (Over $550,000 annually is given away in financial assistance).
Membership rates vary by category and range from $37/mo for a teen to $61/mo for adult individual to $103/mo for a Family. These rates are generally all-inclusive with the exception of child care or summer day camp or league/lesson fee.
Mike Tully joined AAA Arizona in 1998 as the Chief Financial Officer. He currently serves as the company’s President and Chief Executive Officer. AAA has over 52 million members of which 700,000 are in Arizona.
Rotary Club of Tucson's Executive Director, MARY LAUGHBAUM, was selected as one of 5 "Remarkable Moms" by Tu Nudito. A celebration of this recognition was held on May 7, 2011 at Loews Ventana Canyon Resort.
For 15 years, RCOT members have been mentors at Robison Elementary School and this year, working jointly with Reading Seed Coaches,a total of 28 students worked with 13 reading coaches/mentors for both the fall and spring semesters. On Friday, May 13th, an end of the year event was held in the Robison School library where coaches/mentors introduced their students and gave them a book about the Grand Canyon. If the student completed the Reading Seed game, they also received a Reading Seed medallion. Lemonade and cookies were enjoyed by all. RCOT members who have served as reading coaches/mentors this school year include: Bill Bennett, Cliff Bowman, Charlotte Harris, Roger Harwell, Dick Sanderson, and Jan Seagondollar. Incidently, Jan has been with the program since its inception 15 years ago. Congratulations on another RCOT successful project!
PAULIE HECHLER has been a member of our club since January 2005 and is Chief Development Officer for The Community Food Bank. She is currently serving the last year of two years as Secretary of your Board of Directors and serves on the Invocation and Program committees.
Gene Hechler, husband of Pauline, is President of Silverado Technologies which designs, builds, and supports computer networks for small and medium sized businesses. The business was started in 1998 and Pauline and Gene bought it in 2004. They have 10 full time employees. Under the banner of “Integrating Business and Technology” Silverado focuses on reliability to deliver a lower total cost of ownership for your IT assets. The organization’s efforts have been recognized by an Ethics in Business Award from the Better Business Bureau and a Customer Satisfaction score from Microsoft that placed the company in the Top 15% of Microsoft dealers in the USA.
President MARIANNE FREITAS opened the meeting and introduced JACK PARRIS for the invocation. The pledge and song were led by MAGGIE KOSINSKI, accompanied by GARY HIRSCH.
DENNIS DRISCOLL introduced visiting Rotarians, including a group from Italy, and guests.
Birthday kids included KEN TUCKER, who thanked his sponsor, former member Frank Bouchard; TOM BROWNING, a 45-year member, whose father was a member before him; NINA TRASOFF, a member since 1991, who thanked her sponsor DREW VACTOR (and also ASA BUSHNELL, who had earlier urged her to join) and recalled that when she joined she was one of a handful of women in the club; and CRISSY PERHAM, staff member for the Tucson Padres AAA baseball team.
CINDY GODWIN introduced new member SCOTT CADDOW, owner of Legendary World, a travel business based in Tucson.
Announcements included JOE NEVIN reminding us of May 18 Goodwill donation day; IRENE DECKER, new membership chair, encouraged us to seek out retail business owners for Rotary; CHARLOTTE HARRIS announced a matching program until June 15 for contributions of $100 to $250 toward Paul Harris fellowships; BRUCE TUNZE announced a wine event at Jonathan’s Cork on May 24 -- a five-course dinner and wine pairings for $60. JACK MAREK presented flight wings to PAULINE HECHLER in recognition of her recent parachute jump, and GARY SCHEER recognized DAVID PASHKOW for his stellar representation of RCOT.
PAT RASKOB announced RCOT grants to St. Elizabeth of Hungary Clinic ($15,000) and Pima Council on Aging ($25,000).
CRISSY PERHAM introduced Tucson Padres Manager Terry Kennedy, a four-time all-star during his 14 years in the majors. He compared pro baseball today with years past and noted that Rotary seems to him to be a lot like a baseball team: supportive, helpful, and often a waste of time with lots of characters.
Greg Byrne was named Arizona’s 11th Director of Athletics in March 2010 and officially assumed the reins on May 3, 2010. Prior to coming to Arizona, Byrne was Mississippi State University’s Director of Athletics, where he was the youngest top current athletic administrator in the Southeastern Conference and the youngest to lead an athletic program at the NCAA Division I-A level.
Terry Kennedy, a former All Star catcher in the Major Leagues, has won several Manager of the Year awards in the Minor Leagues. Now the Tucson Padres Manager, Terry is proud of his unique connection to Tucson. His father, Bob Kennedy, while playing for the Cleveland Indians, participated in Spring Training in Tucson during the 1940's. Terry, a dynamic and humorous speaker, shared his perspective on "Your Tucson Padres."
President MARIANNE FREITAS called the meeting to order at noon. JIM RONSTADT gave the invocation with GORDON SHAW leading our pledge and America the Beutiful, after kidding Maestro GARY GETHMANN about losing the piano.
BOBBY LARSON introduced visiting Rotarians and guests. May Birthdays were celebrated: GERRY HALLOWELL gave us no room to question his views of building a WalMart next to his home; MIKE SAGARA complimented the Red Cross for all that they have done for tornado victims in the South and our jovial CHARLIE MEAKER serenaded us with his horn, accompanied by the Rowdies.
Next, ERNIE MONTAGNE awarded the Presidential Citation with Distinction to RCOT, graciously received by President Marianne. JON WANG gave his pep talk on the car show, awarded St. Gregory Scholarship Fund $5000 for their tremendous support the last four years and announced that, along with Godfather ARNIE JACOBSEN'S urging, we now have Marianne and TOM STRASBURG as Car Show Co-Chairs in 2012 and CHUCK SAWYER in 2013. Kudos to them. CHARLOTTE HARRIS won flowers for her 100-year-old mom, donated by IRENE DECKER. Other announcements were: a successful book drive, work party at Marshall Home for Men, and Change of Administration Pary June 25 for incoming President JONI CONDIT.
PAULINE HECHLER then introduced Don and Joan Diamond's daughter, Helaine Levy, who gave a wonderful presentation on the Diamond Children's Center. Vicki Began, Chief Nursing Officer and Dr. Cleo Harden also spoke.
PAT LENNAN then fined long-lost ball attendee, KENT LAUGHBAUM. Prez adjourned the meeting promptly at 1:20 PM.
This past January my wife Patty and I traveled to Tanzania, Africa enjoying the wildlife of the Serengeti. During our return to Arusha, we had a chance to visit the Bashay Primary School outside the city of Karatu, home to many of the Iraqw tribe. Bashay currently enrolls 700 students as a compulsory public school through the grade seven. The Principal was engaging and explained about Bashay, then we visited one of the classrooms. The students were friendly, extremely engaging and interested in their American visitors. While the classroom where spacious and in good repair, the school has no electricity. Even on a sunny day the light coming through the few windows was marginal, at best. I could only imagine that during the extended months of rainy season, no lighting had to have an adverse impact on the learning environment. Having just spent four nights in a mobile camp in the Serengeti had me thinking about the solar panels, LED lights and that maybe there could be a solution.
Upon our return a series of e-mails ensued with Sally Montagne of District 5500. The conclusion was that I could seek a Simplified Matching Grant where the District would match funds from our RCOT for a total of $4,000 and that installation labor would need to be found outside the matching grant. I decided that I would contribute the additional $1,000 to make the project of lighting classrooms at Bashay a reality. Time seemed to leaping ahead, even before I was ready to take advantage of remaining funds that might be available. I was told that if I acted quickly the match could be forth coming. I have to say Sally’s expert knowledge and fast responses allowed me to submit the SDG paper work by the March 1st opening date. With her help and that of Al Chesser, the approval came quickly to provide funding to purchase the necessary materials to provide solar panels, batteries, LED/Fluorescent lighting for three class rooms, a lunch room and two teacher’s offices, along with a gas powered back up generator.
In a matter of days, the District check of $2,000 was in hand, along with the RCOT match approved by our Board under Marianne‘s leadership, along with Bob Logan as our International Service Director. The next month was spent in establishing communication with the Arusha Rotary Club which we will be partnering with to complete he project, before the next year. Signed agreements have been filed and we are doing the preliminary studies to suggest a basic design to help with the project’s technical requirements., thanks to the guidance Roger Harwell and GLH Engineering. My contact in Arusha is wildlife game driver and guide, Ridas Michael Laizer, who has been a great help in communicating with the Rotary clubs in Arusha and the school’s Principal Mr. Justine. In 2012, after the project’s completion my wife Patty will be returning for another game drive and photo safari with our daughter Megan. We’ll be sharing pictures of our project’s success at that time.
The improved learning environment will not only make educational instruction quality improved, but the Principal has stated that they will be able to bring on more students and even begin evening classes for adult education. Certainly a win-win for all concerned and project meeting the Rotary Four Way Test.
The application process was fast and easy, the goodwill to be built with the Arusha Rotary Club in Tanzania, a reality already. This project will not change the world, but it will impact future classes of countless children with improved education and future opportunities. For me, this is what Rotary is all about in the International Avenue of Service. Next time you’re traveling, don’t be surprised if you do not identify an opportunity of service, wherever your destination may be. Keep your eyes open to those future possibilities!
Bashay Primary School Lighting Project - Karatu, Tanzania Africa
In September, 2006, a committee charged with developing a fund-raising Signature Event for the Rotary Club of Tucson made a decision to create a car show. ARNIE JACOBSEN took the lead and in just 13 months, he and a small group of members, did the research, planning, promotion, and recruitment of other club members to present the first TCCS which had 560 cars on display! That was an enormous accomplishment and represented long hours of dedication to Rotary. But as if that were not enough, Arnie then stepped up to be Chairman for the 2nd Annual TCCS presented in October 2008.
Meanwhile back in February of 2008, JOE PENNINGTON, a member of the original strategy team, ambushed me one dark night on a sidewalk outside a restaurant. Transfixing me with piercing clear eyes, he pointed out that it was Jon Wang who had initiated the concept of a Signature Event and that it was incumbent on said suspect to step up to leadership. He suggested that if I did not do so, my military history would be tarnished and there would be serious doubt about my virility. So in November 2008, I took the Chair for TCCS October 2009.
Preparation for such an event is a 12-month assignment. To insure continuity of success it is important to create continuity of leadership. So in January 2009, after Joe and I had enjoyed skiing together in Utah, we were feeling refreshed and energetic, and 2010 was seeming so far distant, I had a conversation with Joe Pennington. It was quiet and matter of fact. There was no intimidation. I said "Joe, you have the experience and skills to be Car Show Chair. I am giving you a choice. Your choice is to be the Chair in 2010 or be the Chair in 2011." Of course he wiggled as much as he could - and that is why I was the Chair again in 2010!
As everyone knows, Joe is now the Car Show Chair and has been working very effectively since last November for our success in fund-raising on October 22nd, 2011. Going back to October 2010, Arnie Jacobsen, car show godfather, pointed out that with my record in recruiting, it would be a good idea to start right away in capturing a Chair for 2012 and he suggested a candidate - MARIANNE FREITAS. I made an appointment and carefully made the case that she would be a perfect successor to Joe Pennington. Marianne enthusiastically and quickly said "NO!" When I went back to the godfather, he said "Make her an offer she can't refuse." (ever heard that before?).
So I made another appointment with Madame President. I proposed that we could provide a partner, a co-chair, who would be very big and strong and could enforce any edict she would make while lending his enormous base of knowledge and experience in the car show world to make her role so sweet and easy! When I told her that the co-chair would be TOM STRASBURG, she relaxed and smiled and graciously agreed. Meanwhile, Arnie was in another location with Tom Strasburg - they had conversation, 2 glasses, and a quart of Jack Daniels.
For the TCCS in October 2012 we have Co-Chairs Marianne Freitas and Tom Strasburg! The Car Show will go on! Now I'm thinking I can quit bothering people, but then Arnie says to me "Wang, as inept as you are, I think you need to start recruiting for 2013." Well, I have been observing ever since 2007, an energetic young executive with every trait of a good Rotarian who has worked harder than most at every Tucson Classics Car Show. I had started infiltrating his brain 2 years ago with the notion of leadership, so when I approached him last month and said "We would like you to be Chair for 2013", he said, "I will do it!" Proudly we announce: The Rotary Club of Tucson Classics Car Show Chairman for 2013 is CHUCK SAWYER! Our future is bright and green and guaranteed!
If there is one thing Rotarians know how to do, well, is have a good time. About 80 Rotarians, spouses and guests attended the New Member Mixer on the patio of Vivace's last Thursday, May 5th. Of course, the food was fabulous - all prepared by DANNY SCORDATO himself. It was a beautiful Tucson evening as Rotarians and guests could be seen enjoying fellowship. That's what it is all about!
Thank you MARY MARTIN, RITA MARSHALL, TED FORSBERG, and CRISSY PERHAM, (with the help of Mary Laughbaum), for putting this together.
It's time to get fit and ready for the upcoming El Tour de Tucson. Mike Harris (husband of our own Charlotte Harris) set such an impressive example of what "one" Rotarian can do. He assembled a committee, began recruiting team members, and the Rotary El Tour riders vaulted from 27 riders in 2009 to 82 riders in 2010. The donations shot from $ 4,500 to $35,000!
In memory of Mike, Rotary is again focusing on El Tour for ending Polio. It would be fabulous if we could reach the ambitious fund raising goal of $ 100,000. We believe it is a stretch goal, and the kind of ambition that would make Mike smile. Start getting ready now by signing up for the November 19, 2011 El Tour and collecting your donation pledges! The application will soon be available on the District 5500 website (www.rotaryd5500.org) If you have questions, contact Gary Hirsch: garyhirsch1@gmail.com
Fellow Rotarians.....give yourselves a hand. Your club earned the highest Presidential Citation because of all you do for your community and around the world. At our meeting on May 4th, District Governor Ernie Montagne presented the Rotary Club of Tucson with a certificate and an embroidered patch to commemorate this award.
Using the Four Avenues of Service as a guide, a point system was established by RI President Ray Klinginsmith to determine if a club achieved a balance of participation in all four areas of service. A minimum amount of points were required in each of the four areas of service to receive the citation, and if a club over-excelled, the Citation With Distinction was awarded.
Congratulations Rotary Club of Tucson! Keep up the great work!
RCoT member JESSE THORPE, is currently General Manager and Chief Executive of Skyline Country Club. He started as a waiter in 1982 to pay his college tuition and rent. He left in 1991 as Clubhouse Manager, moving to Milwaukee for 3-1/2 years and Las Vegas for almost 11 years before he was asked to return 6 years ago to replace another of our members, DICK KOLASA, who retired. Jesse is currently chairman of our scholarship cups.
Skyline Country Club was founded by Mr. Leonard Savage of Oklahoma City, a prominent businessman and frequent visitor to Arizona.In 1961 Mr. Savage and Mr. John Bender discussed the building of a golf course and the country club in Tucson.This discussion became a reality.The golf course opened for play in August 1962 and the main Clubhouse opened for business in June 1963.
They named the country club “Skyline” because it was located 1,000 feet above the city of Tucson at an altitude of 3,000 feet.
Today, Skyline is a member owned country club with dining rooms, banquet facilities, a full service FitnessCenter, an Olympic sized swimming pool, six clay tennis courts and a par 71 golf course.
In 2006 Skyline was chosen as a “Platinum Club” by a panel of industry peers for the excellence of its facilities, services, products, staff and governance. Boasting an award winning culinary team and long time employees Skyline offers a gracious “family” atmosphere for its members’ enjoyment.
President MARIANNE FREITAS called the meeting to order at noon and gave us a brief remembrance of two RCT past presidents who recently passed away. Gil Bradley and Ed Butterbaugh were both good Rotarians and community leaders who will be missed.
The invocation was given by PAT ZUMBUSCH and COZY COZINE led us in the pledge and song of the day. BRUCE TUNZE introduced visitors and guests following lunch and birthdays were celebrated by KATHY KITAGAWA and the absent JOHN LEWIS.
BOB LOGAN and CHARLOTTE HARRIS presented Paul Harris awards to JAY ZUCKER (+1) and Jay’s wife Melinda who was Miss Coolidge in 1982. Also receiving his 9th Paul Harris was JIM RONSTADT and Jim’s wife, Chris, received her 2nd. Way to go!
JOE NEVIN announced that May 18th will be Rotary Clothes Closet Cleaning day for the benefit of Goodwill Industries. GARY HIRSCH asked for volunteers to help plant a vegetable garden at the Marshall Home for Men. JONATHAN MARTIN announced that nomination forms are now available for our club’s Orville McPherson award.
Our program was organized by none other than the remarkable CINDY GODWIN. We were honored to hear from the three finalists selected by the Grants committee to receive funds generated by the Car Show This year $40,000 is available and our three finalists were: The Pima Council on Aging for their Neighbors Care program; the St. Elizabeth’s Health Center for their medical, dental and mental health assistance to the working poor; and the UMC Foundation and Diamond Childrens Medical Center for the purchase of a Sonosite Ultrasound system to help locate veins in infants. All three groups gave very inspiring presentations and are all doing their best to serve our community. RCT members are to select 2 of the three to share in the grants. The recipients will be announced at a May meeting.
A raffle was conducted but nobody wanted to have dinner with DAVE GALLAHER. The Prez closed the meeting promptly at 1:20 pm with her well stated toast.
Helaine Levy, Executive Director for the Diamond Foundation, will update us on the work at the Diamond Children's Medical Center. She will be accompanied by Vicki Began, Chief Nursing Officer and Vice President of Patient Care Services, and Dr. Andy Theodorou, Chief Medical Officer.
Diamond Children's Medical Center is a partnership between University Medical Center and The University of Arizona Steele Children's Research Center focused on bringing advanced care and compassion to all children in Southern Arizona. Children are treated by leading experts with the latest diagnostics and therapeutic procedures.
District 5500’s Group Study Exchange in 2011-12 will be with District 2450 in the Middle East. The team will consist of a Rotarian Team Leader and 4-5 non-Rotarians young professionals age 25-40. Our team will depart for the Middle East October 22, 2011 and return November 20, 2011. The team likely will visit Egypt, Jordan, and Bahrain.
The team will stay with local Rotarians in their homes, visit local cultural and historic sites, give presentations to local Rotary Clubs, and have several vocational experiences in which team members spend a day with a local Rotarian of their same profession.
The club’s strategic plan calls for using proceeds from the Tucson Classics Car Show to continue or develop community programs that make a significant impact in the community. These programs should specifically support the needs of children and youth and the 55+ population in Pima County.
Following the 2010 car show, the Community Grants Committee developed and distributed a request for proposals, and received 10 qualified applications for funding. The Grants Committee reviewed these proposals and narrowed the list to three which it recommended to the Board of Directors and the membership for possible funding from the $40,000 allocated for community grants (one-half of the car show proceeds). This Wednesday, you will be asked to vote for two of these finalists. Any two finalists will receive the full amounts they requested.
As background for all the applicants, their proposals met the following criteria:
Address issues affecting the aging and youth in Pima County, specifically,
Children and youth up to age 18
Seniors 55+
Engage in activities that build on people’s strengths and help them become more self-sufficient.
Clearly stated measurable outcomes.
Collaborate with other organizations or business partners to increase reach and effectiveness.
Leverage the Rotary grant by obtaining matching funds.
Rotary Club members can be involved in volunteer activities and participate with program participants.
Report to Rotary on progress.
Not discriminate against any group on the basis of race, religion or ethnicity.
Programs must be administered by organizations that have a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt letter of determination from the Internal Revenue Service.
Following are brief summaries of the proposals from the three finalists. You can request a copy of the full proposals by emailing Mary at the office, rotary@tucsonrotary.com. You may also want to visit the websites of the respective finalists to learn more about them.
1. Pima Council on Aging, One time request (www.pcoa.org)
The goal of PCOA’s grant request is to assist isolated and frail older adults and adults with disabilities by creating or strengthening neighborhood-based volunteer caregiver programs that promote seniors’ ability to live safely and independently in their own homes. Funds will support operation of the award-winning Neighbors Care Alliance (NCA), which consists of 18 local, community based volunteer caregiver programs and includes over 120 member neighborhoods, faith communities, businesses and local government offices operating throughout Pima County. In 2010, nearly 2000 seniors were supported to live safely in their own homes through the support of NCA volunteers. A one-time grant from the Rotary Club of Tucson would assure the NCA continues in the short-term. Measurable objectives for this program year include increasing by 5 the number of programs developed or expanded, providing 1980 hours of training annually to 890 program volunteers and reaching 650 unduplicated individuals to recruit them as program volunteer leaders.
The goal of St. Elizabeth’s Health Center is to provide sliding-fee scale medical, dental and health services with a focus on prevention of disease, education for healthy living, and treatment to optimize health. Volunteer health professionals partner with St. Elizabeth’s staff to provide services to the uninsured and underserved working poor of the greater Tucson area. The funding request is to provide three critical elements to meet the dental needs of children, adolescents and seniors: 1) increasing the number of volunteer dentists, 2) financial assistance for purchase of dentures and/or partial dental appliances, and 3) community outreach to local schools to provide information about St. Elizabeth’s and its dental services. Measurable objectives are: 1) 20% of dentists attending seminars will become new volunteers, 2) 42 seniors will receive dentures or partials, 2) 10% of new dental patients will be referrals resulting from the community outreach to local schools. Single year funding will touch numerous lives, expand outreach and increase the number of volunteers, which all represent sustainable actions.
The University Medical Center Foundation develops ongoing philanthropic support for UMC and Diamond Children’s Medical Center. Diamond Children’s is designed to provide the most advanced health care possible while maintaining a comfortable, healing atmosphere for children and their families. The funding request is to purchase a Sonosite Ultrasound System for the Diamond Children’s Medical Center. The Sonosite will enable physicians and nurses to increase the speed, accuracy and efficiency with which critically ill or injured children can be treated. It is estimated that the equipment will be used at least 150 times per year, preventing about 15 infections per year for a cost reduction of almost $700,000, helping to save lives and improve medical care. During the three year grant period, Sonosite use, length of hospital stays, number of infections and cost of infection treatment will be tracked and reported to the Rotary Club of Tucson. The Rotary Club of Tucson’s name would be added to the donor wall in the lobby of Diamond Children’s, and the classroom on the sixth floor.
April 27 Meeting - Community Grants Presentations and Voting
Earlier this month, we lost two former RCoT presidents:
Edgar C. "Ed" Butterbaugh, club president 1988-1989, passed away April 12, 2011 in North Manchester, IN. Ed started Ernst & Ernst in Tucson in 1962, was made partner in 1965, remaining in charge of the Tucson office until his retirement in 1987. Ed was active in many local business and commuity organizations and was honored as Tucson Man of the Year in 1985. He is survived by wife E. Joann Marks, and children Jeffrey Butterbaugh, Jon (Debbie) Butterbaugh, Janet (David) Webber and Jane Scmidt. Services were held on April 16th in N. Mancheseter, IN.
Gilbert "Gil" Francis Bradley, club president 1964-1965, passed away April 11, 2011 in Tucson. Ed is survived by wife (of almost 70 years) Marion, and sons Larry, Richard and Steven Bradley. Gil was based in Tucson for 16 years, first as assistant branch manager, then manager of the Tucson downtown Valley National Bank, then executive vice president of the Southern Region, moved to Phoenix in 1973 to become President of Valley National Bank, until his retirement in 1984. In 1976 he was appointed to the Federal Advisory Council of the Federal Reserve System and in 1979 he was named one of the top three chief executive officers in American banking by Financial World magazine. A memorial service will be held at 11:00, April 29, 2011, at Grace-St. Paul's Episcopal church, 2331 E. Adams Street, Tucson.
President MARIANNE FREITAS called the meeting to order at high noon.
CLEM LESLIE said grace, giving thanks for the meal. SONNY SOLOT led us in the Pledge of Allegiance and directed the group in singing “My Country Tis of Thee” which he said characterizes our Nation and the freedoms we enjoy.
Everyone gathered at their respective tables to eat a delicious self-served burger plate from the patio.
After lunch JEFF RONSTADT was superb, as usual, in the introduction of guests and visiting Rotarians. However, I must tell you that when he returned to the table someone had left him a Rosetta Stone subscription for the Italian language.
The birthday celebrants were DICK DOBRIN, ANN LANCERO, LARRY PETH and JAKE STRUBLE. LARRY PETH, assisted by Sally Montagne, got everybody’s attention with a $2000.00 matching gift ($4000.00 total) presented to BOB LOGAN, Chair of the International Committee. JAKE STRUBLE was overheard telling fellow Rotarians that you can tell when you’re getting old because you have to use tenderizer on your rice crispies.
BRUCE TUNZE announced that he and his wife were inviting Rotarians to their home for a Wine Fellowship Blind Tasting on April 28.
The Rotarians were treated by Craig Ivanyi and Dillon Huger to a most engaging and informative presentation about the non-profit privately funded Arizona Sonoran Desert Museum that is located 12 miles west of town. The museum was initiated and developed b Arthur Pack and William Carr in 1952. It has a zoo, Botanical Garden, natural mysteries and a museum all wrapped into one. The museum has a digital library, kid’s camp, live animals, a family section, programs and tours and new exhibits.
All within the span of 30 minutes Rotarians were made experts on what the Sonoran Desert Museum is all about. That includes first hand views of live feathered friends such as a raven, raptor and a horned owl. The Rotarians of Tucson owe Craig and Dillon a debt of gratitude for their superb entertaining presentation.
Toast and meeting adjournment were executed at 1:20 p.m.
President MARIANNE FREITAS gonged the meeting to order in our bankrupt banquet hall at precisely 12 pm.
JACK PARRIS gave the invocation. MARY MARTIN, hobbled by a broken foot, led us in the pledge and “America the Beautiful” accompanied by the GREAT GARY GETHMANN on the eighty-eights.
Everyone then settled into fellowship mode while trying to determine what our mystery meat was—fish, fowl or animal.
After the mystery lunch BOB LOGAN introduced our visiting Rotarians and guests. President MARIANNE acknowledged our only Birthday Boy, CHRIS “Low prices are our priority” EDWARDS. Trivia buffs were excited to learn that CHRIS went to high school with President MARIANNE’S daughter.
Past President JON WANG stumbled and mumbled through a three minute presentation that we think was about Rotary’s role in polio eradication. JON fined himself $100 and we think Princeton graduates should be able to read and speak at the same time.
Announcements included new member SUSAN MOORE VAULT urging us to bring potential new members to the Membership Mixer on May 5, ANGELA BAURLEY reminding us of the Wine Fellowship gathering at BRUCE TUNZE’S on April 28, TOM ANDREWS pitching the Pontotoc Ridge hike set for Saturday and tiny DOT KRET making a “short” appeal for books for the Norma Peal Book Drive to be held April 20.
Sergeant At Arms PAT LENNAN fined BOB WEBB and JIM MURPHY for various publicity offenses and DAVE GALLAHER auctioned off tickets to the Boys and Girls Club “The Event.” High bidders were LARRY ADAMSON and SUSAN MOORE VAULT.
TOM STRASBURG, looking very dapper in his $200 haircut, introduced Jim Kuliesch, Executive Director of Alliance of Construction Trades. Jim gave us an informative and entertaining presentation on how to deal with general contractors and sub contractors. Time ran out before Jim could give the second part of his presentation “Six Steps To Great Sex After Sixty,” disappointing ninety five percent of our membership.
Craig Ivanyi, Executive Director for the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, began as a volunteer over 26 years ago.This led to a full-time job as the museum’s Herpetologist and General Curator. In addition to his work at the Desert Museum, Ivanyi is a published author of several works, including “Lizards of the Southwest” and “Venomous Critters” in the Get Go Guide series “Put a Little Desert in Your Pocket.”
Thirty years ago, one man had an idea. That individual was a physician in Mexico and he was a Rotarian. Carlos Canseco's idea was to engage Rotary as a world-wide service organization and begin a war against polio. This most disabling of diseases is caused by a virus. It is a crippling and sometimes fatal infection. There is no cure. But it is 100% preventable, thanks to vaccines developed by Dr. Sabin and Dr. Salk.
Carlos Canseco convinced Rotary International to begin the immunizations and the fund-raising in 1985 and soon other organizations joined the cause. By 2010 the number of cases of polio in the world had been reduced by 99%! Millions of cases have been prevented and more than a million lives have been spared. It all began with one man and an idea.
Another individual brought power to the process. Bill Gates brought the power of his philanthropy to Rotary in 2007. His commitment was initiated with a challenge grant of $100M. He has steadily increased his contribution each year. Why did Gates choose to partner with Rotary? "Rotary has taken a very strong leadership role, and we knew, based on Rotary's track record, that they would obviously be the key partner. Giving directly to Rotary is ideal because they're just dedicated to the polio fight and not subject to the same complexities as a UN organization."
Because the vaccine is so successful there has not been a case of polio in the US since 1979. The result is loss of awareness of the danger this virus poses. Rotarians must sustain the effort to rid those last 4 countries of the disease and thus make the whole world a safer place!
Promptly at noon, Pres MARIANNE FREITAS called the meeting to order and informed us of JIM SEESE’S passing. CLARKE DUNCAN gave a lovely remembrance of JIM. CLEM LESLIE gave the invocation, and ERNIE MINCELLA accompanied by PP GARY GETHMANN did the pledge and led the Star Spangled Banner.
After lunch, JEFF RONSTADT introduced the visitors. Birthdays were celebrated by 8 year member TOM ANDREWS, 11 year member GORDON SHAW and 11 year member JAY ZUCKER. TED FORSBERG gave a membership minute talk; TOM ANDREWS announced that there will be a Rotary hike on April 16 to Pontotoc Ridge – a beautiful hike. BOB SHAFF and DOT KRET reminded everyone that the NORMA PEAL Book Drive would take place on April 20th.
Then Pres. MARIANNE finally decided to do some major fining. First, she held up the latest copy of Sunset Magazine. Guess whose business was written up in it? PP BILL HARLOW’S Harlow Nursery! This kind of publicity is worth thousands, so BILL donated $200 to Rotary. Then she showed us an article from the Arizona Daily Star about the El Con Barber closing. In the article there was a picture of a famous Tucson celebrity getting the shop’s last hair cut. Who was that celebrity? None other than TOM STRASBURG... TOM also donated $200 to Rotary while muttering what an expensive haircut that was. Birthday boy GORDON SHAW introduced our speaker, Bart Ladd who talked about Honor Flight Tucson.
Jim Kuliesh is the Executive Director of the Alliance of Construction Trades (ACT), a Tucson non-profit association of 300 members representing specialty trade contractors and material suppliers. Jim has over 48 years in the construction industry.
Norma Peal was a member of our Club for just two years before her premature death from a brain tumor. In that short time Norma was an example to us all of how to be a great Rotarian. Before she died, Norma established a library at Kino Community Hospital to provide books and reading materials for patients at the hospital, renamed University Physicians Hospital at Kino. The library is now known as the Norma Peal Library, and our Rotary Club supports it via semi-annual book drives.
Please bring books, games, and other reading materials that you have read and accumulated over the years to our Rotary meeting on Wednesday, April 20th. Representatives from the Hospital will be there to collect your books and to issue you receipts for your donations.
Last Saturday six RCOT members joined me to attend the District Assembly held at Pima Community College West: Board Members ALAN SCHROPE, DREW VACTOR, IRENE DECKER, MARCIA KRUMWEIDE and VIRGINIA LEVITT. We were there to learn all we could about the specifics of our jobs for this coming year. Member BOB ERNSTEIN was one of the key breakout session trainers for this five hour training. Those who attended had the opportunity to meet and get to know their counterparts in most of the Pima County and Santa Cruz clubs. There was a lot of laughter and fun.
Your Board learned about the importance of public relations, recruiting younger members to our club, keeping our present members engaged and enjoying Rotary and what types of matching funds are available from Rotary International for service projects. I attended sessions on how to run an effective meeting. Let's hope I learned something!
Governor-Elect Michael Drake outlined his goals for the coming year connecting with incoming Rotary International President Kalyan Banerjee’s theme to “Reach Within to Embrace Humanity”. As you may recall President Banerjee and his wife visited our club last September. Governor-Elect Drake’s goals include maintaining and growing our membership, doing great service projects, having all members make donations to the Rotary International annual fund of $150 this year, and to develop Rotary leaders, both at the club level and beyond. We encourage anyone interested to attend the Rotary Leadership Institute in Tucson on August 27th.
Governor-Elect Drake reminded us that the role of the District is to support club. He said that what appeals most to him is the internationality of Rotary. This year’s District Conference theme for which RCOT is the host will be “Celebrate the Internationality of Rotary”. The Conference will be October 28-30 here at the Doubletree Hotel.
Prior to Bart Ladd's marketing career in civilian life, he was an Army Infantry officer with the exotic military occupation specialty title of "small unit leader." As you may be aware, Army infantry second lieutenant "small unit leaders" typically have a war time career among the shortest on record.
Fellow member JIM SEESE passed away suddenly on Friday, April 1st from severe pancreatitis. A Rotary Club of Tucson member since May of 2009, Jim leaves wife Patty, three daughters, Kathy Kirlin (Travis), Jennifer Seese, Jamie Zene (Matt), a brother Larry (Marty) and six grandchildren. In 2003 Jim and Patty moved to Tucson after retiring from 32 years of potato farming in Alamosa, Colorado. He was an avid fly fisherman, and enjoyed playing golf and shooting skeet. Jim was sponsored by Clarke Duncan. Please keep Patty and their family in your thoughts and prayers at this difficult time. Services will be on Saturday, April 9th at 2:00 PM, at Desert Skies United Methodist Church 3255 N. Houghton Road.
Over 170 Rotarians and guests came together last Friday night at the Skyline Country Club to celebrate our Club’s 90th Anniversary. It was a beautiful evening in Tucson, and an even better one at our party.
For the first time, at the Club's 90th Birthday Celebration on April 1st, 2011, a new and very special award was announced to honor two great Rotarians in whose names the award is given. The Gard Pierce - Billy Joe Varney Outstanding Service In Rotary Award was given
As the hour of noon fast approached PRESIDENT MARIANNE FREITAS called the meeting to order.
In his usual witty fashion KEN LIGHT inspired us with a fable of Noah and the ark.
Our pledge and song was led by MAGGIE KOSINSKI who was accompanied on the piano by PAST PRESIDENT GARY GETHMANN to the melodious verses of “AMERICA the BEAUTIFUL “.
The introduction of our guests and visitors was handled by JEFF RONSTADT who started off with an incomplete list and had to have the guests introduced from the floor by their host. Shouldn’t fines be levied upon the check in table for their mistakes made on the list and for shedding such a poor light of hospitality upon our ILLUSTRIOUS CLUB?
The Birthday Boys and Girls were all assembled with LARRY ADAMSON, BILL ANASTOPOULOS, and CAROLE LITTLE leading the pack followed by DOT KRET and DON ROLLINGS with an impromptu poetry session. After that a befuddled PRESIDENT MARIANNE forgot our next birthday gal ELLEN WHEELER . . . don’t forget to put $5.00 in the scholarship cup Madam President and a belated birthday celebration to DREW VACTOR.
Quick updates from RITA MARSHALL on the 90th ANNIVERSARY PARTY on April 1st and if you haven’t made your reservations yet then you might be out of luck. The deadline was last Friday. BOB ERNSTEIN started soliciting volunteers for the DISTRICT 5500 ASSEMBLY.planning meeting on April 9th and to mark your calendars for October 28-30 for the Conference as we are the host club.
A new Member introduction by CLIFF BOWMAN brings to us a former ARIZONA WILDCAT and OLYMPIC MEDALIST swimmer CRISSY PERHAM now on the staff with the TUCSON PADRES. Dr. ALAN ROGERS introduced new Member ANN LANCERO, registered nurse turned realtor - another champion!
PRESIDENT MARIANNE made a few quick remarks about the 2 for 1 matching funds during tax week April 18-24 and fined GARY SCHEER and MIKE ANDERSON a $100.00 each for the ring tones of BEAR DOWN ARIZONA during our new member introduction.
PRESIDENT MARIANNE introduced our introducer PAT LENNAN who presented our speaker Dr. John Pedicone, the new superintendent of TUSD. Dr Pedicone’s speech was entitled “The Good, the Bad and the Ugly” and cited the many factors in tackling the enormous job ahead of him in bringing the district under control.
PRESIDENT MARIANNE ended the meeting with a reminder of no meeting next week, make your reservations for the anniversary party and ended with the ceremonial toast.
There is no meeting at the Doubletree this Wednesday, March 30. If you are a member, please accomplish a make-up or attend the 90th Anniversary Party at Skyline Country Club on Friday, April 1. The next Rotary Club of Tucson meeting is Wednesday, April 6 at noon in the Bonsai Boojum room of the Doubletree.
No Meeting This Wednesday - Replace with 90th Anniversary Party
Free Fall, that is. On Saturday, Pauline and Gene Hechler each executed a daring tandem jump from a perfectly good airplane. They dropped from 13000 feet to 5000 feet before opening the chutes, landed softly, and loved it. Pauline: "I think we'll do it every year."
The International Service committee working on our Nogales Wheelchair Project could use additional members on their committee. The Wheelchair Factory in Nogales, Sonora is almost ready to start production, so this is your chance to get involved as things begin to happen! Please contact Jim Lubinski if you are interested in getting involved in this wonderful project.
Please keep our fellow Rotarians in your thoughts and prayers as they face their challenges. Cards are always appreciated:
CHARLOTTE HARRIS lost her husband Mike to cancer March 24, 2011. Mike was a fellow Rotarian in the Casas Adobes Rotary Club and their incoming President 2011-2012. Mike was also Fundraising Chair this year for The United Way, the energy and push behind the Rotary El Tour for Polio that experienced tremendous success this past fall, a longtime resident and a very respected realtor in Tucson. A Vigil and Rosary will be held from 5-7 PM Wednesday (Rosary at 6:00 PM); Funeral mass will be Thursday, March 31st at 10:00 AM - both at St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church, 5150 N. Valley View Road.
GEORGE HAWKE is in assisted living at The Cascades, 201 N. Jessica Ave., recovering from a short hospital stay.
JIM SEESE is in ICU at St. Joseph's Hospital (no visitors at this time) recovering from surgery required for damage from a gallstone. Jim is anticipated to be hospitalized for 3-4 weeks.
On Saturday, March 19, our intrepid Rotary Hikers conquered another local landmark when they climbed to the top of Wasson Peak, the highest summit in the Tucson Mountains. Starting at 8:30 AM near the Desert Museum, Rotarians Tom Andrews, Chuck Sawyer, Tom Browning and former Rotarian Dan Spahr, covered a total of almost 8 miles while climbing over 1,800 ft. to the top of the 4,687 ft. peak where 50 mile vistas were enjoyed in all directions. On the return, the group viewed several abandoned mines and Hohokam Indian Petroglyphs before arriving back at the Trailhead to enjoy a cold beer. Join us on future hikes, the next of which is scheduled for April 16 in the Rincons. For more info, contact Tom Andrews.
On Monday, March 14, 2011, Ace Bushnell lost his battle with health complications. A 32 member of our club with over 30 years of perfect attendance, Ace was a devoted Rotarian, as well as public servant, rehabilitation counselor and loving husband for 25 years to Cheri Cross-Bushnell. Ace was a newspaperman who spent four stints with the Tucson Citizen in four decades, beginning in the late 1940's going from sports editor to the editorial pages. He was a special agent for the FBI, was a former Marine and was a Princeton graduate. In addition to wife Cheri, he is also survived by sons Mark and Larry Bushnell and daughter Carolyn Houghby, stepdaughters Michelle Marsh, Peggi Cross and Rochelle Jourdan, sister Barbara Leonard and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Services will be Saturday March 26, 2011 at 10:00 AM at Casas Church, 10801 N. La Cholla Blvd.
There will be a reception to honor all the Reading Seed Coaches and supporters at the Doubletree, April 7, 2011, 4:30 to 6:00 PM. Hors d'oeuvres and non-alcoholic beverages will be provided, live entertainment, and a brief program at 5:15 PM. The Mistress of Ceremonies will be K-GUN 9, anchor, Jennifer Waddell. Those interested in attending should RSVP by March 30 at www.readingseed.org or by calling 798-0700. Please include your name and phone number and the name of your guest if someone will be joining you. Business attire. Jackets not required.
The meeting began on a somber note as President MARIANNE gave us the news of ACE BUSHNELL’s passing. DON ROLLINGS and JON WANG both gave us some reflections on their remembrances of Ace. Jon touched on Ace’s Princeton connection and the fact that he tirelessly wrote a column every week to his fellow Princeton alumni. Ace’s dedication to Rotary and all forms of public service will be sorely missed in our community.
The invocation was given by SUZANNE LAWDER who asked for a moment of silence for the suffering of the Japanese people that are facing a long recovery from the earthquake and tsunami.
Finally some happier moments were shared by all as CLEM LESLIE led us in the pledge of allegiance and then delivered his best Mitch Miller impersonation by waving his hand in time to the music (fortunately not in time to our singing)
The introduction of our guests and visiting Rotarians was masterfully handled by BEN HAWKINS. President Marianne also introduced the guests and Rotarians at the head table.
Quick updates followed from RITA MARSHALL on the 90th ANNIVERSARY PARTY on April 1st and from TOM ANDREWS on the hike.
President Marianne introduced Tara Jackson, President of the Arizona Town Hall who began an informative discussion of the goals of the Town Hall program. Tara introduced a number of speakers (including our very own SUZANNE LAWDER) from the Town Hall committee that gave us insights into the various areas of focus of the Town Hall program. Bruce Dusenberry then allowed the floor to give the Town Hall committee some of our own thoughts on what we thought the most important issues are that face us in Tucson. The need for quality education of our children, our voters and our legislators seemed to be at the top of our list. Let’s get educated, get informed and get involved!!
President Marianne then got all toasty and sent us off to the real world again.
John J. Pedicone, the newly appointed Superintendent of Tucson Unified School District was our featured speaker at our March 23rd meeting. Prior to this appointment, he was a Senior Faculty Fellow in the Educational Leadership Program at the University of Arizona, College of Education, and the Vice President of the Southern Arizona Leadership Council. Dr. Pedicone retired from Flowing Wells School District, where he served as an administrator for 22 years. His administrative leadership in the district included serving as junior
At the stroke of 12 PRESIDENT MARIANNE FREITAS called the meeting to order.
A brief remembrance of PAST PRESIDENT MAX HAHN was given by SCHUY LININGER and a moment of silence to honor his passing. Next up was LEE AITKEN who gave us an inspiring invocation by honoring the men and women of the 355th Air Wing at Davis Monthan. Our pledge and song was led by MR. MISCUE DAN GUARE who was probably out of sorts due to the change in venue. His false start and lost location of the flag on the pledge and acappella version instead of the standard Acapulco of “AMERICA the BEAUTIFUL“ earned him his new moniker.
The introduction of our guests and visitors was handled by RICK RUPKEY. Rick continues to have made a long list of visiting guests and Rotarians as well as ROTARY ROYALTY - 1 future and 1 past District Governor. Our Birthday Boys and Girls went quickly with PAULINE HECHLER, MAGGIE KOSINSKI, JON WANG and RICHARD WHITE at the President's Table and JOE PENNINGTON and ELLIE PATTERSON out in the audience.
Quick updates from GINGER LEAVITT on the 90th ANNIVERSARY PARTY on April 1st and a RYLA update and introduction from SEAN FURRIER. CHARLIE “I’m standing in for Rosanna Rijel” MEAKER with a plea for any last minute blood donors. CHARLIE O’DOWD gave a quick shout out to all the NEW BLUE BADGE AWARDEES.
A new Member introduction by MIKE SCHULTE brings to us a former CDO ALLSTAR turned CPA MIKE DEVRIES.
President Marianne interjected with some quick remarks as to another successful Home Hospitality and congratulated SONNY SOLOT on being a LIVING LEGEND and further congratulations to JOAN McNAMARA and ACE BUSHNELL on their accolades that will be presented to them next week.
Now with no further ado, President Marianne introduced our introducer JIM LUBINSKI. Jim gave us a quick bio of our HIS BOSS, Bob "Bookmans" Oldfather. Jim's shameless self promotion of Bookman's was overlooked by Bob's continuous increasing of his donation to The Reading Seed. Bob explained that in life we always look for that 3rd place. First is home, second is work and third is our getaway and that his grand design for Bookman's was to be that 3rd place, a cool place to hang out. THANKS AGAIN Bob for your most generous donation.
President Marianne ended the meeting with an update on the NEW CAR SHOW RAFFLE CAR, the coming of an early start on ticket sales and then flashed a picture of this years prize a 2002 White Corvette to end the meeting.
RCoT received a very gracious thank you letter from Elizabeth Campbell, Executive Director and Jim Murphy, Board President of Reading Seed. Here are some excerpts from the letter:
"Please convey to the Rotary Club of Tucson members our deepest appreciation for the $ 40,000 donation to Reading Seed Children's Literacy Program from the 2010 Tucson Classics Car Show".
"The thousands of dollars of in-kind advertising and publicity contributed to the Tucson Classics Car Show is a major benefit to Reading Seed as well. Traffic to our website increased by 20% last October thanks to exposure provided by Car Show outreach. You also generously feature the Reading Seed program in many media appearances which really helps bring in prospective volunteers".
"We should also mention that the Rotary Club of Tucson has already contributed over $ 33,000 to Reading Seed fiscal year to date including gifts from individual RCoT members and 2009 car show proceeds received in July."
"Reading Seed could never have grown to serve more than 2,500 children each year without the Rotary Club of Tucson. The early years of full underwriting and in-kind donations provided by the club created an organization that is a leader among literacy and volunteer-based nonprofits in our community. We are grateful for this special relationship with RCoT and the many benefits it conveys".
Term limits, clean elections and more...the March 16th presentation was action-focused discussion on recommendations from the 97th Arizona Town Hall, Arizona's Government: The Next 100 Years. The presentation was in panel format by participants of the 97th Arizona Town Hall and Arizona Town Hall leadership. Co-sponsored, along with our club, by the Casas Adobes Rotary Club and Saguaro Rotary Club. members of the Arizona Town Hall also joined us for this special meeting.
According to longstanding club policy, Rotarian quarterly bills / invoices are to be paid within 30 days of the billing date. If the outstanding invoice is not paid within the 30 days, a $25 late fee is assessed. This policy at Rotary Club of Tucson has not been enforced in recent quarterly billings due to the change in personnel at the RCOT office and, frankly, other pressing items on our plate. However, our accounts receivable are building up and we need to reduce the outstanding balance so that we are running the club well.
I've learned many Rotarians were not aware this policy existed. Before acting on the policy anew, I want every Rotary member in our club to be aware that the policy exists and not be surprised if they ever get a late fee charge. On the other hand, we need to be consistent in applying the policy and not show favoritism as that would simply be unfair and get me into trouble on our basic Rotarian ideals.
We've included the Board approved policy below so that you can see it.
If you have any questions, please contact me. Otherwise, know that I appreciate your help in remaining Rotarians in good standing!
Our fellow members JOAN MCNAMARA and ACE BUSHNELL were honored with the "Chrysalis Award" by "The Haven" at a luncheon March 10th for their extensive work on addition/substance abuse treatment and prevention (Compass Health Care) as well as many other areas of service to our Tucson community. We congratulate these two outstanding and deserving Rotarians. Rotary Club of Tucson is proud of you!!!
We had another very successful Home Hospitality! Thank you to all our wonderful hosts: SUSAN & DAVE GALLAHER, MARCIA & KEN LIGHT, DARLENE & PAT LENNAN, CHAR & BOB ERNSTEIN, FLORENCE & LARRY ADAMSON, PATTY & JIM SEESE, ANN & BOB SEGAL and JUDY & LEE AITKEN.
Articles will not be repeated from previous Tucsotarians. If you didn't read your last issue(s), and didn't print a copy, you can access past issues from our website home page, lower lefthand side where it says "Tucsotarian Archives", then select the issue you need to see.
Continuing important events/dates: "Rotary Race for the Cure" April 10th and "Sunrise Rotary Special Program" March 24th both in the issue dated March 2nd.
Bob Oldfather was our featured speaker at our Wednesday, March 9 meeting, speaking on the topic titled "Adventures in Retailing, or How I pulled a Bookstore Out of My Hat."
Bob “Bookman” Oldfather founded “Bookmans” in September of 1977. At that time he was living in Colorado but had returned home to Tucson to visit his father and hang out in his small used book store called “Livingstons." While he only came for visit, he never left. Finding he really loved the business, he bought the small store which was located at Tucson Blvd and Broadway from his father for $1 and renamed it “Bookmans”.
Did you know.... For the second year in a row, the Rotary Club of Tucson has partnered with the Casas Adobes Rotary Club to receive a District 5500 matching grant? This grant provided money for bus transportation for families and children from underpriviledged schools to attend the Festival of Books. Rotarians from both clubs made contact with their assigned schools to deliver the bus check and meet the principals. A another visit was made to deliver the Festival schedules to their schools, and on Sat. March 12, 2011 Rotarians introduced themselves to the families/children to talk about literacy, activities at the Festival, and saw the buses off. This combined effort provided a total of 15 buses which descended upon the Festival of Books making it possible for just over 1,000 individuals to attend.
Thank you to these RCoT members covering NINE SCHOOLS for this project: LEE AITKEN, CLIFF BOWMAN, BOB & CHAR ERNSTEIN, MARIANNE FREITAS, MAGGIE KOSINSKI, CINDY GODWIN, RON OXMAN, ANNE SEGAL, PAT ZUMBUSCH.
Fun and laughs is what this past Rotary meeting was all about at the Maverick. Our heartfelt thanks to JAY ZUCKER for hosting all of us. Sheriff PAT LENNAN made certain everyone had a least two items of western garb or paid a fine. A wonderful western buffet followed. Thanks to KEN FLOWER who supplied the authentic tin plates for our food.
JIM RONSTADT gave the invocation. SONNY SOLOT and GORDON SHAW together, led us in the pledge and patriotic song. CHARLIE O’DOWD then introduced our visiting Rotarians and guests.
Our birthday boy this week was CLEM LESLIE, who donated to Reading Seed. CHARLIE MEAKER spoke about the upcoming blood drive. TOM ANDREWS and SID HIRSH spoke about the various hiking trips coming up. All are urged to participate. DOT KRET announced the recipient of our very coveted award for the 4-way test given this year to Jeannette Mare, for Ben’s Bells, an organization created to honor the death of her young son, Ben. Ceramic bells are made and hung all around town to be found by passersby. This wonderfully kind gesture is spreading throughout the country, giving hope, understanding and love to mankind. Awards to our best dressed cowgirl, SUZANNE LAWDER, and cowboy, TIM BROWN, were given.
President MARIANNE FREITAS announced Rotary International is giving Rotarians the opportunity to donate online to their Paul Harris by midnight: amount will be doubled. She also spoke of the challenge by District 5500 for bringing in new members. An anonymous donor will contribute $500 to our club for each new member who joins between now and the end of the year: encouraging us to extend a welcoming hand, while being able to explain the good works that Rotary undertakes both in Tucson and worldwide. Go for it!
JIM RONSTADT then introduced our speaker for the day, Joan Leiss, who gave a most interesting talk and slide presentation on ”La Fiesta de los Vaqueros.” This citywide event has been going on in Tucson since 1925, with cowboys both nationally and internationally competing for prizes and entertaining everyone. Joan and Jay each signed books for our Reading Seed Program entitled “Cowgirl Kate and Cocoa”.
RICK RUPKEY held a raffle and auction, followed by a toast and adjournment of the meeting.
The Race for the Cure will take place on Sunday April 10.To be a member of the Rotary team is easy.Just go online and register at komensaz.org.Our team is listed as Rotary Club of Tucson.You can be a member of this team no matter what distance you do – 1 mile or 3 miles.Most of us will walk the distance but you can run if you wish.
So why do the Race with your fellow Rotarians?One reason is that over a third of us have been affected by cancer, if not the member than a member’s spouse, child, sibling or parent.Doing the Race for the Cure is a fine way of honoring those have beaten cancer, supporting those who are fighting cancer, and remembering those who were taken by it.
It is also great fellowship, and the fellowship will continue after the race with the annual Bubbly Brunch at Hirsh Manor to which all Rotary team participants and their partners are invited.
Club Sponsorship allows a business to support the club and its vital programs while advancing the image of his/her business. We thank Bob Shaff -- Customers For Life for being a Charter Sponsor of RCOT.
Bob is a Past President of the Club, and recently has
provided leadership in Classics Car Show ticket sales and The Salvation
Army Bell Ringing project. He also serves on the Board of Goodwill
Industires. An Arizona native, he has and Electrical Engineering Degree
from UA, and is married to Lynda. They have three grown sons.
Bob is President of Customers for Life Consulting -- a
19-year marketing consulting firm, dedicated to helping clients improve
customer and employee satisfaction, retention, and loyalty. He has
helped dozens of business improve their customer impact and financial
success. Bob says, "Customer relationships are the one thing that
your competition cannot copy, and are the primary reason for the high
levels of customer loyalty that great companies enjoy." For more information on how Customers for Life could help your business, CLICK the Customers for Life logo on this page.
And for more information on Club Sponsorship CLICK the link at the bottom of this newsletter, or contact Scott Vaughan.
An invitation has been extended to any of our members who would like to attend a special multi-club Rotary meeting hosted by the Tucson Sunrise Rotary Club. The featured speaker will be Past Rotary International Director Philip J. Silvers speaking about Rotary in the Middle East. The meeting will be held at the Arizona Inn, 2200 E. Elm Street, Tucson, on March 24, 2011 from 6:45 AM to 8:16 AM.
The cost for the delicious breakfast is $17.00 per person (checks made payable to Tucson Sunrise Rotary). If you wish to attend, please make your reservation by March 18, 2011 by contacting Richard Suskind: rsuskind@mac.com. Of course, as you all know this would be considered a make up for a missed meeting as long as it is within the two week period before or after the missed meeting.
Larry Adamson, Bill Anastopoulos, Bill Bennet, Tim Brown, Charlotte Harris, Pauline Hechler, Maggie Kosinski, Dot Kret, Kent Laughbaum, Carole Little, Jim Naughton, Ellie Patterson, Tony Pedroza, Joe Pennington, Don Rollings, Drew Vactor, Jon Wang, Ellen Wheeler, Larry Wheeler, and Richard White.
Call or email Mary Laughbaum to schedule the date you would like to celebrate at a Rotary meeting.
Nancy Cassell has been announced as District Governor Elect of District 5500 for the year 2012-2013. Nancy has been a Rotarian for 24 years, first joining the Rotary Club of Gila Bend in 1987. Before retiring in 2005, Nancy worked as a banker in Arizona for 23 years. She has been married to Ray for 45 years and they have two married daughters. Husband Ray is a Rotarian and Past Club President of the Rotary Clubs of Gila bend and Sierra Vista South. Nancy and Ray moved to Sierra Vista where she is currently a member of the Rotary Club of Sierra Vista West.
Nancy has been very involved in her communities by volunteering to help those less fortunate. At the club level she has chaired nearly all committees and been on the board of directors of her clubs. A few examples of her service at the District and International level include: chairing many committees, worked with youth programs and GSE teams, was an Assistant District Governor, served on the Tri-District PETS committee, graduated from the Rotary Leadership Academy, and represented our district at two zone institutes. She has received numerous awards for her outstanding Rotary service. Congratulations Nancy!
A few weeks ago this national publication ran a front page article: "Bill Gates sets goal of wiping out polio - forever." They reported he is boosting his annual contribution this year to $ 302M. He began in 2007 with a $100M challenge grant and has increased his donation each year. In his annual letter he declared polio his top priority. But the piece overlooked entirely the key role of Rotary in this battle.
To their credit, "USA Today" did publish a letter (2-2-11) from an alert Rotarian who initiated the world-wide campaign known as "PolioPlus" in 1985. In 1988 the world Health Organization joined the fight, UNICEF and US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention then followed. In 1985 polio was endemic in 125 countries and there were 350,000 new cases. Today only 4 countries still have the disease. Rotarians alone have contributed $1Billion over the past 25 years. The viral disease, smallpox, has been eradicated through international vaccinations and now we have the opportunity to do the same to polio. With the help of the organizations cited and with friends like Bill gates, "We are this close to ending polio." Rotary Club of Tucson and Rotarians throughout the world need to continue our effort in this winnable battle!
To get into the full spirit of Rodeo Week in Tucson, our February 23rd meeting was moved off-site for a western themed lunch at "The Maverick". Joan Liess told about the history and expansion of La Fiesta de los Vaqueros. Joan is an independent marketing professional who specializes in sporting and special events. She has served as the marketing director for La Fiesta de los Vaqueros, the Tucson Rodeo, for twenty-one years. During her tenure, the Tucson Rodeo Committee has expanded this eighty-six year old event from a four-performance rodeo to a nine-day event, elevating it to one of the top 25 pro rodeos in North America.
Don't forget the membership challenge made by our anonymous donor for a donation to our club of $500 for every net new member between December 1, 2010 and December 1, 2011! Just keeping up with attrition is challenging. We need to stay ahead of that beginning number of 238.
There is now added incentive to bring in new members. During the period from July 1, 2010 to May 15, 2011, District 5500 will award a $1,000 Paul Harris Fellow to the one Rotarian in our district who brings in the most new members. Through the February 10th reporting period, CHARLOTTE HARRIS is currently in 2nd place (tied with 6 others in our district). A Yuma Rotarian holds first place with 3. With several months yet to go, Charlotte has a chance to win this! There will also be certificates given to the club sponsoring the most new members. Currently our club is in first place with 16 new members, followed by Yuma with 15 and Casas Adobes with 4. Clubs who achieve the higest percentage of net increase will also receive certificates.
Remember that new member packets and club brochures are always at the meeting registration desk. Be sure that the application and sponsor form are complete and that the $ 300.00 application fee is included when you submit. Especially important on the application is to include all community service/involvement and the names of three fellow Rotarians (at the bottom) as references. These references are each checked by the new member review committee.
New member TED FORSBERG has stepped up to head New Member Recruitment. Ted was a Rotarian in Washington state before moving to Tucson, and he knows the value of being a Rotarian. Thank you Ted for taking on this important task.
Remember, you don't know whether or not someone you know would like to be a Rotarian unless you ASK!
The 2010-2011 Board of Directors' encouragement of "Club Sponsorships" has helped hold down dues and improved the Club balance sheet. More importantly, it turns the Club's new electronic resources into a marketing tool for member businesses.
"Sponsorship" allows favorable exposure for
businesses such as: your logo and business listing within both
the Weekly E-Tucsotarian and the Club web site; a one-click link to your
website directly from your logo display; grateful acknowledgement
from the podium periodically for the sponsors' outstanding Rotary
citizenship; and opportunity for sponsor-provided articles about your
business to appear in Club publications.
Who can sponsor? Members
who have provided at least one year of service on club committees.
What does it take to be a sponsor? Money or raffle/auction prizes.
Initial CHARTER SUSTAINING SPONSORS have agreed to have $99 per quarter
added to their quarterly bill and may cancel whenever they wish. The current rate is $125 per quarter. Twenty
sponsors can be accomodated and there are currently three openings for
new sponsorships. The money raised goes to the club's operating budget
with the intent of holding down your dues. Sponsorships is a function
of the PR Committee, which has volunteer opportunities to move this
project forward. Contact Scott Vaughan, Steve Christy, or Mary Laughbaum
for more information.
LET'S RESTORE THE BALANCE OF SERVICE FELLOWSHIP AND BUSINESS -- JUST LIKE IT WAS STARTED BY PAUL HARRIS.
Member Awareness of CLUB SPONSOR BUSINESSES Advances
This is a BIG DEAL! The Tucson Classics Car Show is not only offering ticket purchases online (beginning last year), but now car entrants can fill out their entry form and pay for their registration online! This was all made possible by some very creative, talented people in your club: BOB SHAFF (Customers for Life) who created the whole idea by starting with ticket sales online last year, DREW VACTOR (Five Star Web Design) who designs and maintains our website, and MIKE SCHMIDT (Anchor Wave Internet Solutions) who set up both the ticket sales and registration online sales. To see what this is like,and experience the new site design with new fly-out navigation tools by Drew, go to our Car Show web site: www.tucsonclassicscarshow.com
There is also a whole signature look to our entry form and all other Car Show media material. A very classy graphic design was created by MATT BLAIR (Cirrus Visual Communications) assisted by CINDY GODWIN (Godwin Marketing Consulting). To top it off, Cirrus printed all the entry forms on a very nice quality paper.
These talented people donated their time and knowledge to make all of the above possible. I am sure you will agree, these changes and additions enhance the quality of our show and its image. How about thanking them next time you see them?
The Tucson Festival of Books is one of the top 10 book festivals in the United States - after only two years in existence! The event is planned and staged by an all-volunteer group of Tucson community, commercial, civic and educational leaders. The Tucson Festival of Books is held on the University of Arizona campus and admission and parking are free to the general public.
Proceeds from the Tucson Festival of Books benefit literacy efforts in Southern Arizona. Organizers expect the Third Annual Tucson Festival of Books to top last year's numbers: 80,000 in attendance, 450 authors and presenters, 1,200 volunteers, and 10,000 books given away to kids.
Co-founder of the Tucson Festival of Books, Bruce Beach, received the Tucson Chamber of Commerce's 2010 Man of the Year Award for his work in establishing the Festival. A literacy advocate, Bruce's presentation at Rotary on February 16th is sure to inspire!
How our President, MARIANNE FREITAS, rounds the members up, gets them seated and starts the meeting on time, is not unlike an experienced cowboy and wrangler of whom we’ll see many next week at the Tucson Rodeo. Btw, remember to dress in western wear for next week’s meeting.
ALAN ROGERS commemorated the passing of 11-year Rotary and Paul Harris sustaining member, WALT MASTIN by describing his generosity in giving to the Reading Seed, both in time and funding and telling humorously about his crashing of a motorized hang glider, not once but twice.
The invocation was led by JACK PARRIS who inspired us by using the original Paul Harris invocation and in so doing, reminded the club why this part of the meeting is significant. JOHN LEWIS began the pledge and song by first acknowledging our program speaker’s achievement of Chamber of Commerce, Man of the Year, our own former Rotary member Bruce Beach. We then sang America the Beautiful after the pledge with GARY GETHMANN enhancing the singing with his talented touch of the ivories. Introductions of guests, scholarship recipient, and visiting Rotarians were done by RICK RUPKEY. DAVID STERN, the sole birthday boy this week, was honored by sharing the stage.
HUGH THOMPSON introduced new member, TED FORSBERG. TED was a Rotarian in Seattle, and according to Hugh, will jump right in on recruitment of new members for our club. CHUCK SAWYER announced the mentor training and also the hike that will take place in the Tucson Mountains. BILL COZINE reminded members of last day signup for home hospitality. MARY MARTIN thanked all members who have been bringing guests to meetings and announced that TED FORSBERG, indeed, will take on member recruitment as HUGH has mentioned.
A lively history moment on Coach POP MCKALE, or Fritz to many of his friends, was given by KENT LAUGHBAUM. The early coach of all Wildcat sports with many winning seasons was also a Rotarian from 1922-1967 and was President from 1933-1934. MEG WEESNER reported that the GSE Team will be going to Thailand instead of West Africa and will be needing seed money for this important trip.
RICHARD BRATT introduced program speaker, Bruce Beach, who co-founded the very popular and successful Festival of Books and spoke of the importance and the highlights of this year’s event. The Festival of Books will feature over 400 authors this year and is the third largest festival of its kind in the United States although it was created just 2 years ago. Proceeds will benefit the Reeding Seed as well as other literary-related organizations.
In conclusion MARIANNE gave a toast capping the presentation with….Reading is to the mind as running is to the body.
The following member has been accepted according to club policies into membership of the Rotary Club of Tucson. She will be introduced to the club at a meeting in the near future.
Christine Perham Occupation: Tucson Padres, Director of Community Relations Classification: Professional Baseball: Public Relations Sponsor: Charlotte Harris
Before President MARIANNE FREITAS called the meeting to order, it was observed that CHARLIE O'DOWD, Leader of the Band, was participating as a Greeter along with fellow Rotarians, TED FORSBERG, BOBBY LARSON, KEVIN WONG and BOB WEBB. Stepping into the line was the venerable JON WANG. Also, we spotted CHARLIE MEAKER, looking a little suspicious walking through the tables with a violin case. He looked like one of those hit-men in a B movie. Just kidding CHARLIE!
PAULINE HECHLER led the Invocation. She set a new record for brevity and it brought a crescendo of accolades from the audience. BILL COZINE didn't do badly on leading everyone in singing "America the Beautiful" accompanied by GARY GETHMANN on the piano. Funny though, it seemed like everyone was on key today.
Celebrating a birthday was KEN LIGHT. Only after he was summoned from a table by the President, did he finally take his place on the podium. Happy Birthday KEN! Noticeably absent was ROBERT O'BRIEN, who was A.W.O.L. Happy belated birthday ROBERT. PAT LENNAN ate most of your cake! A number of guests graced the meeting. BEN HAWKINS introduced Elizabeth Campbell, Xochiti Hosmer, Sophia Hosmer, and Phillip Ryan as guests of JIM MURPHY. Susan Moore Vault was a guest of CHRISTINE HARVEY, and LARRY PETH hosted a guest, Mark Bahti. Jerry Kantor, a Rotarian from Kinston, North Carolina also joined us today. Thank you, guests, for coming to our weekly Rotary luncheon.
Brief announcements were made before the luncheon speakers were introduced. Under penalty of severe repercussions they were indeed brief! BILL COZINE covered the pending Home Hospitality event. JIM HERZFELD talked about the future mentor training. TOM ANDREWS spoke about an upcoming hike and DREW VACTOR showed the audience a banner he received from the Aspen Rotary Club. He was part of 150 Rotarians who skied the Aspen slopes. Break a leg, DREW! Oh, sorry, you're already back in Tucson.
JIM MURPHY introduced Elizabeth Campbell, who briefed the club on the success of the Reading Seed program in Pima County. Elizabeth then introduced Xochitil Hosmer, whose son Phillip is in the program. Phillip talked about his experiences in the program. He was bright and very articulate for his age. The audience was impressed by his stage presence. PAT ZUMBUSCH gave a financial report on the 2010 Classic Car Show. After all expenses, the club netted a whopping $100,020.00! Awesome! Following PAT, JON WANG presented a check on behalf of Tucson Rotary Foundation, to the Reading Seed, in the amount of $40,000.00 to Elizabeth Campbell. PAT LENNAN, Sergeant at Arms, fined RICK ROSE for winning accolades for his advertising firm.
The guest speaker, Dr Roy Flores, Chancellor of Pima Community College, was introduced by CHERYL HOUSE. The topic of his engagement was: "Redefining Our Mission." The context of his talk was the dismaying fact about the number of high school drop outs there are annually in Arizona, and the state legislature is adding to the angst by making further cuts in educational spending. Where once Pima College, had an open door policy to everyone, it cannot continue. In the future, entry requirements will be stiffened and tuition costs will increase. Sad, but a fact of life and no doubt the outcome will only mean more uneducated people without meaningful jobs.
Following Dr. Flores, there was an auction. The prize; a pair of tickets to a great viewing location at the Accenture Golf Tournament. PAT ZUMBUSCH won. Also, in the weekly drawing, a wine basket, flower arrangement, shirts/ hats from the Accenture Tournament, a dinner at Cushing Street Grill, as well as from Good Sense Pasta, and Swenson's, were given away to some lucky ticket holders. President MARIANNE FREITAS closed with a toast and...the Cookie Monsters struck again!
Walt Mastin lost his valiant fight with cancer on February 9th. A memorial service will be held at St Phillips Episcopal Church (Campbell/River) at 2:00 PM, Saturday, February 26th. Walt was one of those quiet soldiers who was an important part of the Car show leadership team. He was also a Robison Reading Mentor and a member of our Work Projects Committee. He was always ready to help in his own, quiet way, and with a big smile.
President Marianne wrote about Attendance last week. This short article carries on the thoughts. Many of our members have actually attended a number of unrecorded make up sessions but did not receive credit because they just did not turn in the information. Keep in mind that the make ups DO have to be done within two weeks before or after the missed meeting. However, notification to our Administrative Office does NOT have to be within this window but rather just within the 6 month (Jan 1 through June 30 -or- July 1 through Dec. 3) reporting windows.
As President Marianne pointed out, many types of meetings count including Star Committee, General Invitation Social Events, RI convention, Rotary Leadership Groups, RYI (Rotary Youth Exchange) activities, Club and Foundation Board Meetings, Office Work and even most committee meetings. Of course, a meeting at one of the other 35,000 Rotary Clubs around the world or even a half hour or more at e-Club One or one of the many other newer e-Clubs like the e-Club of Singapore, will also count. You can even get credit for combing the e-Club One archives and reading some of the articles I wrote about my challenges maintaining 100% attendance for almost 25 years while traveling extensively. If you attend any of these functions, either fill out a card (available on our website) or just send Mary Laughbaum an email with the date of the function you attended within the current 6 month window. Mary will match it up with the closest missed meeting.
That having been said, the object of 50% attendance (with 30% being at our own Club) is because we want to see you and, hopefully, you want to spend an hour or so with your friends in Rotary. We canall be better Rotarians and better community members the more we participate in local or International Rotary activities.
Dr. Roy Flores has been Chancellor of Pima Community College since 2003. Before coming to PCC, Dr. Flores was president of the Community College of Allegheny County in Pittsburgh. He also has served as president of Elgin Community College in Illinois, and executive vice chancellor of the Virginia Community College system.
Dr. Flores serves on the boards of several national higher-education organizations, including the Community College Baccalaureate Association, Educational Testing Services and the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities. He also is on the American Association of Community Colleges’ Voluntary Framework of Accountability Steering Committee, and the American Council on Education’s Commission on Racial and Ethnic Equity.
Dr. Flores earned a Ph.D. in economics from Iowa State University and has conducted research on monetary theory and human-capital theory. He serves on the boards of Tucson Regional Economic Opportunities, Inc. and the University of Arizona’s School of Dance. He is a member of the Southern Arizona Leadership Council, and the Tucson Breakfast Club.
President MARIANNE FREITAS called the meeting to order on this chilly day, where we were warmed by a delicious buffet at our temporary change of venue, the Jewish Community Center. Accompanied with the sounds of silence (GARY GETHMANN never sounded better!), MAGGIE KOSINSKI conducted the Rotary Chorale in our patriotic preamble, "America the Beautiful." JACK PARRIS followed with the invocation.
Happy Birthdays to RICHARD BRATT, TIM PUNTENNEY, and PETE RAGUZIN were acknowledged. The collective years of Richard and Tim's membership, approximately 50 years, are still less than their respective ages and always will be! They are so old, when they order 3 minute eggs, the waitress asks for payment in advance. However, Richard, Tim, and Pete, you've never looked better!
CHARLIE MEAKER, one of the longest permananent residents of the infamous "rowdy table," welcomed guests and visiting Rotarians. Announcements followed with BILL COZINE reminding us that hosts are still needed for Home Hospitality, February 26 - March 5, and he encouraged those who haven't to sign up for home hospitality before or after our meetings at the designated table or through the Rotary Club of Tucson website.
Shout Out for new members, MIKE DEVRIES and SCOTT CADDOW, hip, hip, hooray!!!! CHUCK SAWYER announced Mentor Training, February 16th at the Doubletree immediately following the Rotary lunch meeting.
If Valentine's Day is not enough, BOB WEBB suggest you lonely hearts find fellowship with wine, which may lead to other support groups! This winery dinner event will be held at Hacienda Del Sol, Tuesday, February 15th at 6:30pm. RSVP by February 8th, to ANGELA BAURLEY. Space is limited to the first 22 RSVP's, so hurry! The cost is $55 per person payable to the restaurant at the event.
ACE BUSHNELL, one of our most long term and supportive members, needs our thoughts and prayers for a speedy recovery from illness. Please contact DON ROLLINGS for information about his condition.
Sergeant at Arms, DAVE GALAHER, appropriately fined CHRIS EDWARDS and PAT RASKOB for excessive community service.
JEFF RONSTADT introduced today's speaker, Wade Dunagan, executive director of the World Golf CHampionship-Accenture Match Play Championship. Wade spoke about the world's largest golf championship, the "2011 Accenture Match Play Championship," February 23 - 27, featuring the top 64 world golf champions and held at the Ritz Carlton, Dove Mountain. The purse is $8.5 million with $1.4 million winners share. Wade rates the success of this event on the millions of dollars raised for charity. Theis event has brought over $22 million for Tucson and is a great support for a broad number of youth oriented organizations (approx $1.2M donated last year).
General and hospitality tickets ($25-$400) are available, those under 18 accompanied by adult are free, students attenda t half price and those in military attend at no charge. Tickets may be purchased through members of the Conquistadors, check out their website and also at PGA.org. The event will be broadcasted on NBC and the Golf Channel. Also, log on to Facebook to the "Dress Ian'' campaign to help select flashy dresser Ian Poulter's wardrobe for his first round!
A toast ended the meeting, have a great week, until we meet again!
Thank you everyone who took part in our Doubletree lunch/menu satisfaction survey and thank you Mary Laughbaum for compiling the report. All items except for two received a 2.8 or better (1.0 being the best and 2.0 being "good"). For you "numbers" people, the overall average score was 2.5 with 98 members responding.
As a result, two items have been permanently removed from the revolving menu: The Chicken ala King (3.1) and the Tofu Caesar Salad (3.2). The Oatmeal Cookies fared pretty well considering there was undoubtedly a campaign to blackball the choice! They received a 2.8 while the Chocolate Chip received a 1.5. The Chicken Caesar Salad received the highest rating of 2.1 for regular menu choices and the Fruit Plate received the highest rating of a 2.0 for the vegetarian choice.
We will continue to work with the Doubletree chef to improve the menu items and will have another survey after the end of the next 6 month period, sometime in July.
Wade Dunagan learned to play golf at the tender age of 13, had great success in his college years, then turned professional in 1983, playing various mini-tours across the country. He joined the golf business in 1985 as an assistant professional at TPC at StarrPass in Tucson, Arizona. Shortly thereafter, he was named the Head Golf Professional/Interim General Manager, and has been working his way up ever since.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Officers of the Rotary Club of Tucson for the lovely flower arrangement, Irene Decker for her great floral artistry – “the strawberry margarita”, and Pat Zumbusch for his kind words of acknowledgement.
Many of the Rotarians may not know that I have been employed in the Rotary Club of Tucson office, on a part time basis, since October 2007. As such I enjoyed working with Arnie Jacobsen, Charlotte Harris, Scott Vaughan and currently, Marianne Fretias, as Presidents. I have found the work that Rotary does to be great for the community, and the people to be sincere in their efforts. It is a little different than my previous full-time employment with a not-for-profit university in Michigan for 13 years. But, the business handling required is with a very conservative and confidential approach which is much the same and very important.
As such, I remain the "behind the scenes" person that helps Mary Laughbaum keep things afloat.
The following members are currently on Leave of Absence: Dane Woll, Mike Apsell, Kathy Kitagawa, Robin Stoddard, Christine Harvey, Steve Canatsey, and Danny Scordato
President MARIANNE called MARY LAUGHBAUM, SONNY SOLOT, and SCOTT VAUGHAN to the dais. Surprise! Surprise! KENT had arranged a Birthday celebration for MARY during his business trip to the U K. SCOTT presented the Birthday card, SONNY led us in song and IRENE DECKER presented MARY with a dozen RED ROSES.
The meeting then came to order (Thanks EMERY) with SUZANNE LAWDER giving the invocation. GORDON SHAW begged the audience for a good rating on his leading the Pledge and America the Beautiful. BILL HARLOW gave GORDON a 7 out of a possible 5. GARY GETHMANN continues to tickle the ivories with gusto!
KEN LIGHT introduced guests and visiting Rotarians and for a change got the Member and their Guest to stand. Birthdays were celebrated for EMERY BARKER, our Legal classified person, who asked members to support the Paul Harris Program. He was followed by CLIFF BOWMAN who gave us his concerns and thoughts regarding the tragedy at the Safeway Market January 8th. SHELBY HAWKINS skipped, but WAYNE PEATE, Doctor, gave us a little levity with "A Doctors choice in Hell".
CHARLIE O'DOWD gave a shout out for new Consultant member TED FORSBERG. Sergeant –at-arms PAT LENNAN was a little slow at the switch. BILL COZINE pitched the Home Hospitality week. He needs Hosts!
The Club finally has a Funeral Director. RON OXMAN did the honors of introducing MICHAEL ORCUTT, Owner of Angel Valley Funeral Home. Good Job RON!
JIM RONSTADT introduced Dr. Gerald Swanson, Professor of Economics, Thomas R. Brown Chair in Economics Education, University of Arizona. Gerry kept the audience at complete attention for 30 minutes with a review of the U.S. economic condition. Thanks MARIANNE for expediting the meeting. Gerry stayed another 30 minutes after the meeting to respond to questions.
Every week in the Tucsotarian, there is an entertaining write-up of the previous meeting. These are the members who did such an outstanding job in the last Rotary year:
Stephanie Aaron, John Adkins, Angela Baurley, Matt Blair, Frank Bouchard, Asa Bushnell, Bill Cozine, Janis Cotton, Nina Daldrup, Gary Gethmann, Hoot Gibson, Gordon Graham, Jan Green, Phil Gutt, Pauline Hechler, Jim Herzfeld, Sid Hirsh, Cheryl House, Judy Keagy, Dot Kret, Marcia Krumwiede, John Lewis, Ernie Minchella, Robert O'Brien, Joe Pennington, Rick Rupkey, Jim Seese, Sonny Solot, Howard Tracy, Ken Tucker, Darrell Stewart, Tom Strausberg, Ellen Wheeler, and Kevin Wong.
Join us for Rotary's "2011 Calendar du Vin" Kick Off - You are invited to a winery dinner on Tuesday, February 15th at 6:30 pm the Grill at Hacienda Del Sol featuring premium Karly Zinfandels personally selected by Sommelier Kevin Brady and a four course menu created by Executive Chef Evan Philips. The charge is $55 per person payable that evening to Hacienda Del Sol.
Please RSVP by February 8th to Angela Baurley at abaurley@aol.com. We have 22 seats available - so don't delay- reserve your seat today.
Gerry Swanson, University of Arizona Professor of Economics, is recognized as an international expert in the field of economic education. He has conducted over a hundred economic education workshops, both nationally and internationally.
From the moment Gerry stepped up to the microphone at Rotary Club of Tucson, the audience was captivated by his presentation on "The Economy." Despite the heavy topic, he even managed to garner a few rounds of laughter from the audience as he explained where we were, where we are, and where we can be in the future.
Wake Up! Tucson offers a unique perspective about the southern Arizona region. The topics range from small business, tourism, politics, economic opportunities and education. Tucson and the surrounding communities are at a turning point. The challenges and obstacles are great. Now more than ever the community needs to engage in a discussion about our options. The hosts, Joe Higgins and Chris DeSimone, are highly involved in the community and bring first hand accounts to their listeners. Wake Up! Tucson is a radio show with a mission and purpose to educate the community and engage the listeners to get involved in our community.
At a luncheon at Tubac Country Club on Sunday, June 26, 2011, nine Rotary Club of Tucson members witnessed the installation of Michael Drake as our new District 5500 Governor taking over the reigns from District Governer 2010-2011 Ernie Montagne. Michael is a member of the Tucson Sunset Rotary Club and is an attorney in Tucson. Many thanks to Ernie for a wonderful year and best wishes to Michael for a successful year ahead. RCoT members attending were: CHARLOTTE HARRIS, JONI CONDIT, GINGER LEAVITT, BILL HARLOW, TOM ANDREWS, CHAR & BOB ERNSTEIN, RICHARD WHITE and MARIANNE FREITAS.
As you probably recall, our members recently elected three new members to your Board of Directors who will join the three continuing on from President Marianne's year. Unfortunately, John Lewis has learned that his new responsibilities with the Bank of Tucson will prevent him from serving on the board. Our club's tradition is to ask the next person with the most votes to fill the vacancy. Fortunately, Irene Decker has enthusiastically agreed to fill the open position and she will be a wonderful addition to next year's board.
So that each director will have the opportunity to overlap and learn from this year's board, I have been working with my 2011-2012 directors to assign committee responsibilities. Here are the upcoming board assignments:
Irene Decker: Membership Cheryl House: Vocational Service Marcia Krumwiede: Community Service Bob Logan: International Service Alan Schrope: Public Relations Drew Vactor: Club Administration
Happy Birthday to the following members who
have a celebration in February. You are invited to sit at the head table to share your special day with Rotary. Remember that we are at the JCC on February 2 and at The Maverick on February 23.
Angela Baurley, Richard Bratt, Don Clark, Stan Cramer, Lisa Fogle, Clem Leslie, Ken Light, Robert O'Brien, Robert Placzek, Tim Puntenney, Pete Raguzin, Jim Ruboyianes, and David Stern.
President
MARIANNE called the meeting to order.
Madam President asked everyone to complete a lunch "scorecard" rating
our lunches a 1 for "love it" thru a 5 for "hate it". Our table raved about the Sheppard's Pie and
I would assume it got nothing less than a 2.
The invocation was given by KEN LIGHT (18+ years). Ken began with a story about the shootings in
Tucson in remembrances of Martin Luther King.
Hero's are from all walks of life, both genders, and all backgrounds. The invocation was a funny and touching story
about a 3rd grader who, well, wet his pants.
He said a quick prayer, asking for help in avoiding the embarrassment
and endless torment that would stay with him for life if he was discovered. A fellow classmate (female) tripped and spilled
a goldfish bowl on the young man "saving" his dignity. Turns out she had the same issue before and
she was doing good to save him yet sacrificed herself. KEN
thanks for the reminder to Do Good and to never stop keeping the faith no
matter what faith that might be. WALT
MASTIN (10 years) conducted the pledge and lead us in "America the Beautiful"
accompanied on the piano by GARY GETHMANN (24 years).
JOHN ADKINS
(5 years) introduced the guests and visiting Rotarians. JOHN held the podium for quite a bit as we
had a plethora of visitors in attendance.
Happy Birthday to WAYNE PEATE (8 years)!
CHARLOTTE
HARRIS spoke about the Festival of Books.
I was impressed that the Tucson festival is second in size only to the
Los Angeles Festival of Books. BILL
COZINE is looking for about 12 host's houses for the Home Hospitality. PAT RASKOB gave us information on the
community grant. Download document #31
for information. PAT ZUMBUSCH
recognized ARLA STADER for her wonderful work and support in the back office.
JOHN MCCALEB
(20 years) who was on This Old House introduced our speakers. JOHN, if you need another house to work on
for the show I can offer up mine. Chris
and Joe from "Wake Up! Tucson" KVOI 1030AM spoke about the business community
and leadership. Their show is for small
business owners and the Tucson business community. It all revolves around leadership and they
encourage you to get out and VOTE!!
Marcia Pierce would like to invite long-time friends in Rotary Club of Tucson to a celebration of Gard's life. The reception will be Sunday, January 30 from 3:00 to 5:00 PM at the home of her daughter and son-in-law, Margo and Jerry Estruth. A map is available from David Stern, or at the registration desk during Rotary. This event will be a fitting tribute to a fine man and exemplary Rotarian.
The 2011 Rotary Club of Tucson grant application is now available and can be downloaded from our Home Page (lower right-hand corner). For 2011, the committee is following the club's vision plan to use proceeds from HALF the profit of the 2010 Car Show to continue or develop programs that make a significant impact in the community. Specifically, these programs would support the needs of the over 55 population or children and youth in Tucson or Pima County.
The proposal to fund school buses for local elementary school students to attend the Festival of Books, in March, has been approved for $1,250 through our District's Simplified Grants. This is a joint project Rotary Club of Tucson and the Casas Adobes Rotary Club. Each club is providing $625 as well as volunteers to make the project a success.
The Festival of Books, hosted at the University of Arizona campus on March 12th and 13th has become the second largest festival of its kind in just two short years. Free to the public, some of the highlights of the event include: author presentations in campus buildings, non-profits and organizations' booths, multiple stages with live presentations, numerous authors available with their books, varied activities especially for children, a food court, plus a new Science Pavilion.
All arrangements for the buses and chaperones will be made by the schools and Rotarians will be asked to visit with the students on the buses before they depart for their special day. Prepared comments will be provided for the Rotarians which will include directions to the District 5500 booth, to pick up a free dictionary, and the Reading Seed booth, to pick up a free book.
Times of departure from the participating schools will vary with each school. If you are interested in volunteering to visit with the students, please contact Charlotte Harris. To volunteer for other positions at the Festival, go to their web site: www.tucsonfestivalofbooks.org
The proposal to fund school buses for local elementary school students to attend the Festival of Books, in March, has been approved for $1,250 through our District's Simplified Grants. This is joint project with the Casas Adobes Rotary Club and Rotary Club of Tucson. Each club is providing $625 as well as volunteers to make the project a success.
President Elect JONI CONDIT shared with the Board that her 19 year old U of A student daughter, Maggie, works for Congresswoman Giffords and was expected to be at Gabby's Congress on Your Corner last Saturday. Unbeknown to Joni and Bill when they heard the news about Gabby and the others, Maggie had awakened with the flu at 8:30 that morning and called her boss to report that she would be unable to attend. You can imagine how relieved they were when Maggie answered her apartment phone that morning.
In checking with ROBIN STODDARD, Robin reports that to his knowledge the Stoddard's involved in the shootings Saturday are not related to him.
February 23rd Meeting: "Git out your best Western duds"......we will move from the Doubletree to "The Maverick", 6622 E. Tanque Verde (sort of across from Pinnacle Peak) for our Rodeo week lunch meeting of February 23rd. Owner and fellow member JAY ZUCKER, is helping us make plans for a fun meeting, delicious menu, and great entertainment, to celebrate this longtime Tucson tradition.
Anyone not wearing at least two items of western attire to this meeting will be fined an extra $3.00 to the scholarship cups, due at the door! There will be some extracurricular activities and entertainment that you will have to come in order to see and enjoy. There will even be accommodations for the "11:30 Club" and a "Rowdy Table"! Don't miss this fun meeting!
Please join your fellow Rotarians and offer your comfort as appropriate remembering their spouses and parents who have recently passed away or those facing medical challenges with family members.
Willis F. "Bill" Edwards, August 21, 2010: Father of member Chris (Cynthia) Edwards
Nancy Lee Vaughan, September 29, 2010: Mother of Scott (Margie) Vaughan
Mary Evans Paul Chambers 12/22/2010: Mother of member Dan (Tina) Chambers and wife of deceased, past member, Harry Chambers.
Pauline (Polly) Holloman Hansen January 2, 2011: Wife of Honorary Member Kelly Thompson, Mother of Allyn, mother-in-law of member Hugh Thompson.
Will Lewis and family need your prayers and support for his daughter, Denise. Denise had a brain tumor removed last may and after chemo and radiation, is getting a positive and promising prognosis.
President MARIANNE called the meeting to order. We then sat down to a remarkable cuisine (sorry, but can't remember exactly what it was). The Invocation was given by PAULINE HECHLER, our Board Secretary and 6 year member with the Community Food Bank. The Pledge & America the Beautiful was led by MAGGIE KOSINSKI a new member with the Tucson Symphony Orchestra. GARY GETHMANN accompanied MAGGIE on the piano. Nice to have new members with musical talent!
JESSIE THORPE, manager of the Skyline Country Club led the Introduction of Guests. Birthday celebrations were led by LEE AITKEN (4+ mo. member) who has many adventuresome interests, then contractor BEN HAWKINS and last but not least, the quiet guy in the corner whose interest appears to be the quest of "getting lucky," STU GOLDMAN.
New member introductions started with KEN FLOWER's introduction of TONY PEDROZA (Environmental Services) who also co-owned service stations. JAKE STRUBLE then introduced retired Major General JAY PARKER. JAY has a strong resume too lengthy to get into here. JAKE appointed himself in charge of JAY's community involvement and instructed him to join Rotary. Yes sir! Who gives the orders around here??
DAVE GALLAHER resumed his entertaining Sergeant at Arms show. PAT ZUMBUSCH introduced the program speaker Judy Clinco. This was a very informative speech about the challenges ahead and how Arizona is on the cutting edge of planning for the future. She gave a BIG accolade to SUZANNE LAWDER for her excellent work in providing a Model Program for the state. Way to go SUZANNE....now fine her!
One of my biggest concerns these last few months has been to get to Rotary early, eye the table and sit near the cookie tray. that way when the cookies are passed around the table, if the tray goes the right way, you get lucky and end up with a chocolate chip cookie and not one of those crazy oatmeal cookies (who's idea was the oatmeal cookie anyway?). Good news today, all the cookies were chocolate chip! I was just lifting the cookie to my mouth for my first bite when somebody at the podium was talking about Bob Logan wearing a tight fitting cycling jersey. That image made me so nauseous I had to put my cookie down. I digress, more about that later.
The meeting started off with a very moving tribute to the late BURT LAZAR by ARNIE JACOBSEN. Arnie spoke about Burt being an unbelievable mentor, about his creativity and curiosity, and many varied life experiences.
PAT ZUMBUSCH gave a moving invocation followed by SONNY SOLOT leading the pledge and song. I must have been fantasizing about the chocolate chip cookie because I never did see the American flag during the salute although everyone was turned in the same direction???
CLIFF BOWMAN introduced our guests including a former district governor from Oregon (go Ducks, beat Auburn! - sorry couldn't resist promoting my northwest roots) and six scholarship students.
Bobby Larson and GARY GETHMANN were recognized for January birthdays. BOB ERNSTEIN introduced Libby Coon, RCOT Ambassadorial Scholar who is headed to Brazil shortly.
Next came CHARLOTTE HARRIS and BOB LOGAN to introduce the new Paul Harris recipients - MATT BLAIR, DICK KOLASA, WAYNE MEYER, Ken Ernstein and Theresa Ernstein (thank you for your wonderful support!). Bob is always good for a few minutes of rambling, so it was a good time to snatch a cookie from the tray! I had just about recovered from the trauma of the BOB LOGAN tight fitting cycling jersey image when I learned he also stole library cards from young Mexican kids! I was shocked and outraged!
Fortunately, ALAN SCHROPE settled things down with a terrific explanation of the San Carlos project. Alan explained the club's 20 year project in San Carlos and gave wonderful details about the trips. Hopefully Santa Claus can give some young Mexican boy a new library card for Christmas next year!
After the presentation, PAT LENNAN noted that SHELBY HAWKINS and her company had been prominently displayed in Inside Tucson recently. Shelby made a nice gift to Reading Seed in recognition of this publicity.
I think we are all still numb from what happened in Tucson last Saturday. Lives were lost, and the lives of the injured, emergency responders, those at the site that day, friends, families, citizens of Tucson, and our country, have been changed forever.
Let us all keep the survivors, including critically injured Gabrielle Giffords, in our thoughts and prayers and remember those whose lives were so unfairly and abruptly ended: Christina-Taylor Green, Dorothy Morris, Judge John M. Roll, Phyllis Schneck, Dorwan Stoddard, and Gabe Zimmerman.
The 2011 RCoT grant application is now complete and available as a download on our Home Page (lower right-hand corner). T
he Community Grants Committee will follow the club's vision plan to use proceeds from HALF the profit of the car show to continue or develop community programs that make a significant impact in the community. Specifically, these programs would support the needs of the over 55 population or children and youth in Tucson or Pima County.
Planning on the Car Show profits with all your wonderful efforts the hope is to have approximately $40,000 to distribute to one or more applicants. Grant requests should be a minimum of $10,000. While no specific dollar amount can be committed for subsequent years, we may consider a multiple year request. Applicants must be a 501(c)3 organization to be eligible. Applications not meeting the criteria will not be reviewed by the committee. The application must be submitted by electronic means and can be downloaded from the Rotary website: www.tucson rotary.org.
If you have any questions, please email the Community Grants Committee, c/o rotary@tucsonrotary.org, or Pat Raskob, Chairperson at 690-1999.
The committee looks forward to bringing the club some worthwhile opportunities.
Due to illness, MJ Vuinovich
will not be speaking this week at Rotary.
We hope to hear her presentation at a future Rotary program.
Fortunately, our own Alan
Schrope will make a presentation on the San Carlos Project as an extraordinary last
minute replacement for the meeting program.
This year's relay at the Tucson Marathon was like no other that
we have ever done.Less than 24 hours
before the race started two Rotary Runners were too sick to participate - ALAN
SCHROPE, the starter for Rotary Team A and SID HIRSH, the number 2 leg for Rotary
Team B.
What to do?Cancel?Skip a leg? JIM HERZFELD's wife, Carol, decided that to
make sure the run would go on as planned, she and JIM would each do a "skip
half."Carol was the starting runner for
Team A, she passed the baton to JON WANG, who passed it to Char Ackerman who
passed it back to, yes, Carol. Rotary A
finished the 26.2 miles in 4 hours and 57 minutes.JIM was the starter for Rotary B.He passed the baton on to CHUCK SAWYER who
then passed it to MIKE ANDERSON who then passed it back to JIM. Rotary B, our walking team, did the 26.2 miles
in 5 hours and 45 minutes.
According to JIM and Carol, "the split half really works
well.You get to be part of the two best
parts of the event - the excitement of the start and the relief of the finish;
plus in between, you can enjoy a nice breakfast!"
After a severe stroke this past week (from which he never regained consciousness) 18 year Rotary Club of Tucson member BURT LAZAR passed away on January 2, 2011. Memorial services will be held at Noon, January 4, 2011 at Temple Emanu-El, 225 N. Country Club Road, Tucson.
Burt was passionate supporter of The Boys Scouts of America, local Catalina Council. He served as a Scout master for Troop 100 and with wife Brenda created The Lazar Campership Fund to send underprivileged children to camp. He was also a board member and past president of the Tucson Museum of Art and active with the Jewish Community Relations Council.
Prior to his retirement he was owner of Arizona Stagecoage company, a well known shuttle and transportation company in Tucson. Preceded in death by his wife (for 42 years) Brenda, he is survived by two sons, Adam and Larry, and two sisters.
Our thoughts go out to the families and friends of our members we have lossed since July 1, 2010 this Rotary year. Ernie Smith Billy Joe Varney Gard Pierce
Jennifer Tersigni has been named one of four Group Study Exchange team members heading to West Africa with Cienega Rotary Club 2011 GSE Team Leader Meg Weesner. The team will cover 14 countries in western Africa collecting/sharing knowledge and experiences of a lifetime.
The bell sounded at "High Noon" to kick-off our Club's final Doubletree gathering of 2010. President MARIANNE FREITAS' melodious and oh-so-soothing voice called the unruly mob to order. 14-Year Member JACK PARRIS offered a poignant invocation reminding the assemblage of Rotary's spirit of inclusion. New member CLEM LESLIE commenced The Pledge and then proceeded to raise the roof with a stirring a cappella lead of God Bless America (sans our piano man GARY).
After a lunch that rivaled the very best of country club prison fare, it was game on. BRUCE TUNZE introduced DG ERNIE MONTAGNE and his wife SALLY MONTAGNE, PDG TED ANDERSON from Oregon, along with 8 other guests and 2 scholarship students. Seven birthday celebrants (far too many to list) representing a collective 80 years in Rotary, offered thanks and donations. President MARIANNE suggested that March must have been a fun month for the sires and dams of these December-bred Rotarians (no video confirmation was available). It should be noted that there have been no encore requests following the Happy Birthday serenade offered by LESLIE GALLOWAY & HOOT GIBSON (God Bless our day jobs).
Next, BOB LOGAN commenced with a PHF update that included: first-timers and El Tour survivors ELLIE PATTERSON & JOHN COUSINS; RALPH LAUTMANN +1 and one for his wife Pat; BEN BURNSIDE +5 and one each for mom Elizabeth and daughter Josey. The indefatigable CHARLIE O'DOWD shouted out for families with 50+ year's heritage in Tucson finishing with an intro of new member TOM ELLINWOOD who thanked his Sponsor, LARRY ADAMSON. Spry as ever, SID HIRSH shared a short oxymoron-ish Marathon report of how Rotary Team A (4 hrs, 57 min) nipped Rotary Team B (5 hrs) by a mere three minutes.
President MARIANNE offered reminders of the Holiday Mixer and the 2011 New Member Challenge. SAA PAT LENNAN teed up a Jacksonian intro to assist with ROBIN STODDARD's sale of "Ghosts 2011 — A Time Remembered" wall calendars. What am I forgetting…ah, the program! BOB LOGAN commandeered the podium (yet again) to set the stage for member JEFF ABBOTT'S overview of the RCOT Nogales Wheelchair Program that included everything from vision to business plan to long range goals as well as an intro of his guests from the Rotary Club of Nogales/Sonora, Mexico: the President, Treasurer and his wife (but no Professor, Movie Star or Maryanne). Great job JEFF!
Finally (applause), JONI CONDIT treated us to an excruciating build up to the announcement of our P-E-E. This just in…it's a boy, a he, a him…and thus endeth the reign of the shes and hers. Congrats and good luck JIM LUBINSKI…say cheese! Our PREZ sent us packing with a Happy Holidays Cheers to the success of the Wheelchair Project.
The Rotary Vocational Fund of Arizona has given the opportunity for a better job, a better future and a better life to many individuals in Southern Arizona through the support of The Rotary Club of Tucson.
You will make a difference with your contribution to TRVFA which qualifies as a "working poor" Arizona Tax Credit.
You may contribute online at www.trvfa.org or by obtaining a contribution form at our Wednesday meeting and mailing a check to TRVFA. The Arizona Tax Credit for couples filing jointly is $400 and $200 for single taxpayers.
Thank you for your prior gifts and your continuing support.
RCOT Bell Ringing Project nets $8,074 for The Salvation Army – up 27% over last year.
Our thanks to the 88 Club members and 24 of their family and friends who volunteered to "Ring the Bells" for the Salvation Army on December 4th at 14 locations across our community.
We raised a total of $8,074 for the Salvation Army this year, up 27% from 2009. This is a real tribute to our Bell Ringers since donations to the Salvation Army kettles are down 3% this year.
11 companies of Rotarians also supported our efforts by "sponsoring" a kettle for $100. Many thanks to Harlow Gardens, Colonial Life, RWO Financial, The Temp Connection, Southern Arizona Community Bank, Raymond Wealth Management, GLHN Architects, Tucson Industrial Realty, Marshall's Jewelers, Jack Furrier Tire and Auto, and Tucson Appliance Co. for helping us be so successful with this project.
Our "top kettle" was at Dillards this year, where we collected $1,714. Ron Oxman, the company sponsor for this kettle, was presented with a "Major Award" in recognition of his team's accomplishment. We plan that this "Major Award" will have a long life, and will be awarded to the "top kettle" team each year.
Bob Shaff and Tom Strasburg, co-chairs, Salvation Army Bell Ringing Project
President MARIANNE FREITAS called the meeting to order. PAT ZUMBUSCH exchanged thoughts and invoked the blessings of the Almighty. ERNIE "Pavarotti" MINCHELLA lead the Pledge and Song with GARY GETHMANN tickling the ivories. There was a solemn moment as LARRY ADAMSON paid tribute to former Rotarian GARD PIERCE
CAMERON MOORE introduced visiting Rotarians and guests before President Marianne recognized JOAN MCNAMARA who was celebrating her 71st birthday. Joan graciously thanked her Rotarian brothers and sisters who exhibited "service above self" during her recent illness.
KEN TUCKER introduced new member TED KIRACOFE who combines agriculture and business degrees to benefit the community. Ask Ken why we should be cautious about shaking Ted's hand. RICHARD BRATT knows how to beat the tax collector so call him about the year-end giving tax benefits.
JONATHAN MARTIN announced the Four Way Test Award; SID HIRSCH got excited about two teams for the Tucson Marathon while TOM ANDREWS was sad about cancelling the hike. The Salvation Army bell ringing effort was a huge success led by ding-a-lings BOB SHAFF and TOM STRASBURG. Bob and Tom presented the bell ringing top award to the RON OXMAN team. MARCIA KRUMWIEDE asked that we remember the Communtiy Food Bank and DOT KRET stated that the Norma Peale Library Award was nominated for recognition.
VICKIE JACOBS and TOM ANDREWS introduced three Rotary Exchange Students: Anlise, a champion swimmer; Kyren, an Irish dancer and Kiley. They all thanked Rotary for sponsoring them and presented slides about their various experiences.
BILL ANASTOPOULOS did the auction thing and even had one participant bidding against himself. It was just another exciting day at Rotary. which ended with the toast by President Marianne.
When he was sponsored by "Babe" (George's brother) Hawke in 1984, RCoT "hit the jackpot". Gard was a man who always had a smile on his face and was enthusiastic about life and everything Rotary.
His service to Rotary began long before he joined our club. He started with the Worcester Rotary Club in Worcester, MA in 1964-1967, Sierra Vista Rotary Club 1968-69, and went back to the Worcestershire club from 1969-1983 before settling in Tucson and joining RCoT. He was a Club President 1975-76, a Director 1972-75, District Governor of District #7910 1982-83 and District Trustee 1977-1980.
Born in Nebraska, a graduate of
University of Nebraska at Omaha with a master's from George Washington
University, he entered the Army in May 1942, serving 27 years in the US
Army Signal Corps with duty in WW II, Korea, post war Germany, and
Vietnam.
He retired from the Army in 1969 as a
Colonel and began his civilian career as Director of Physical Planning
and Plant Services at Worcester Polytechnic Institute at which time he
started his devotion to Rotary.
He spearheaded cooperative community
service and vocational service efforts with Rotary Clubs in Durango, San
Carlos and Hermosillo, Mexico, to name a few. For his efforts, he was
presented Rotary International's highest service award, The Rotary
Foundation Distinguished Service Award. He was a proud Paul Harris
Fellow and also bestowed the honor on many of his family members.
He was preceded in death by his first
wife, Jo, to whom he was married for 51 years. His second wife of 3
years, Ann, also preceded him in death. He leaves devoted wife Marcia
and daughters Mary-Lynne Pierce Bernald (Gene), G.J. Pierce Leptein
(Gary), 2 grandsons, and one great grandson. Memorial services are
pending. His devotion to Rotary continues with the request that in lieu
of flowers, donations be made to the Rotary Club of Tucson Foundation.
The following members resigned from Rotary Club of Tucson since July 1, 2010: Joan Richardson Yvette Villamana Jill Jordan-Spitz Peter Clack Bob Dorsen Tom Spitz Frank Morgan Victoria Shaw Fred Marino Walt Roberson
The following prospective member has been accepted according to club
policies as a member of the Rotary Club of Tucson. He will be
introduced to the club at a meeting in the near future.
New Member: Tom Ellinwood Classification: Properties: Apartment Manager Sponsor: Larry Adamson
President and Founder of the CareGiver Training Institute, Judy Clinco, says that seventy percent of Baby Boomers will need some health care in the future, and about forty percent of those will need long-term care. With those kind of numbers, that means a million new caregivers will be needed to keep up with the health care demand.
For those who would like to view the presentation,
the Nogales Wheelchair Project may be downloaded from:
http://public.me.com/jabbs
The Nogales Wheelchair Project received a record-sized grant from Rotary International and Tucson Rotary that is focused on creating a sustainable micro-enterprise in Nogales, Sonora, that will create jobs for disabled people in wheelchairs by employing them to custom-build rugged, all-terrain wheelchairs for others.
Tucson Salpointe students Kiley Wassenberg and Kyren Lynch, shared their life-changing experiences as RCoT Exchange Students. Kiley spoke of her experiences with Rotary families and friendships in France and Kyren shared his of Italy. Their stays included trips to surrounding countries, broadening their cultural experience and making us all envious of their travels!
President MARIANNE FREITAS got the ball rolling. PP JIM RONSTADT gave the invocation. DAN GUARE and GARY HIRSCH led us in the pledge and song (after a false start). SCOTT VAUGHAN announced that the election was started for three new Board Members. After a short break for indulgence in fine cuisine, our meeting continued with the introductions of guests and visiting Rotarians. Happy Birthdays were celebrated by MARGARET HIGGINS, CHAR ERNSTEIN, and JIM HERZFELD, all of whom announced their fines. Announcements were made by a scraggly bunch including MARCIA KRUMWIEDE, BOB SHAFF AND TOM STRASBURG, GORDON SHAW, JAN GREEN, JONATHAN MARTIN, SID HIRSH AND KENT "JOHN WANG" LAUGHBAUM (two wongs don't make a right). JEFF RONSTADT introduced new member BEN HAWKINS, and DARRELL STEWART introduced new member LISA FOGLE (who looks down in the mouth). Our speaker, Alexis Moreno, DVM, was introduced by ALAN SCHROPE. Dr. Moreno gave a presentation on the life in the day of a Zoo Vet. She brought "Jasper" the polecat (not human), "Savannah" the Monitor Lizard and a nameless Hedgehog. Congratulations new Board Members JOHN LEWIS, ALAN SCHROPE, and DREW VACTOR. Football tickets (Go Wildcats), symphony tickets and apple pie in a jar were auctioned off.
At our December 1st meeting, our speaker, Dr. Alexis Moreno of Valley Animal Hospital, gave us insight into "A Day in the Life of a Zoo Vet". She shared a few of her experiences handling the animals at the Reid Park Zoo, and a real treat was the visit of three residents of the Reid Park Zoo accompanied by their keepers: a Monitor Lizard (about 4 feet long!), a hedgehog and Polecat (a ferret-type critter) who entertained us with his antics in and out of his cage tunnel.
With "a lot
to cover" President MARIANNE FREITAS started the meeting on time. Before giving
the invocation, JOHN LEWIS led an ovation of gratitude for our team of
Doubletree servers, and his associate Dorinna, who helped so much with the
Rotary Classics Car Show. With no flag
to salute, GORDON SHAW cleverly focused all eyes and minds on our esteemed
Madam President as we recited the Pledge of Allegiance. His tour de force in
noting that the first words of our patriotic song "America" (Oh, beautiful.)
could be sung equally sincerely facing our lovely President should earn him
exemption from all fines throughout this Rotary year. GARY GETHMANN accompanied the group on piano.
ALAN SCHROPE
introduced visiting Rotarians and guests.
Birthdays were celebrated by BRUCE TUNZE, DICK GUTHRIE and JANIS COTTEN. JONATHAN MARTIN announced the call for
nominations for the Four-Way Test Award.
MARCIA KRUMWEIDE asked that we include the Community Food Bank in our
charitable giving, observing that a $1 contribution buys $10 worth of
food. TOM STRASBURG needs volunteers for
Salvation Army bell ringing on Dec. 4.
SCOTT VAUGHAN reminded us that next week we will be voting for a new
slate of Club directors from these outstanding candidates - ALAN SCHROPE, IRENE
DECKER, JOHN LEWIS, VIRGINIA LEAVITT, TOM KIERNAN and DREW VACTOR.
CHARLOTTE
HARRIS gave us an update on contributions for Polio Plus. Twelve members of the Club rode in El Tour de
Tucson last weekend raising more than $9,000 for Polio Plus. VIRGINIA LEAVITT invited everyone to attend
the Holiday Mixer at Vivace. PAULINE
HECHLER extended her thanks to all for contributions to the Food Bank which
will help them meet the Jim Click $30,000 challenge. CHRIS EDWARDS solicited help with the golf
tournament coming up February 26-27 at Dove Mountain.
President
MARIANNE encouraged new members to complete STAR training and invited all
members to review copies of the Club's Strategic Plan. PAT LENNAN fined JOHN LEWIS and BOB LOGAN for
recent favorable publicity. LOGAN
offered to put $500 toward a Paul Harris Fellowship for whichever son in
attendance (Tommy and Sean) got the best grades this semester.
BOB LOGAN
introduced the guest speaker, Dr. Chris Impey, from the UA Department of
Astronomy. LOGAN noted that Impey leads
the largest undergraduate program in astronomy in the country, has raised more
than $18M in research funding and was the 2005 Arizona Professor of the Year. Impey said that the universe is "built for
life" and that it is reasonable to expect we will eventually find life on other
planets. Interesting factoids included:
there are 1 billion habitable worlds in the Milky Way and 100 billion in the
universe; we can see 6,000 stars in a dark sky; carbon is the backbone of life
and it is abundant in the universe; over 500 planets have been detected in
other galaxies and many, many of them have water.
President
MARIANNE concluded the meeting with a toast for Thanksgiving and a thank you to
the Polio riders.
That's right, this Wednesday six distinguished Rotarians will stand for election to our board for a two year term to begin in July. Three will be elected. The candidates have been announced at the last three meetings, including brief Rotary Bios.
Comparing the number of polio cases reported at this time last year to this year, the number is down by 49%; and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation has pledged an additional $50 million, with a $10 million Rotary challenge. Their total commitment to date is $405 million with a $210 million Rotary challenge match. "So much work has been successfully done that we want to keep up the momentum until we finish the job." Rotary WILL eradicate Polio in the world!
For 25 years our club has hosted at least 3 Rotary Relay Running teams each year to honor 3 great people - our current president, our past president and our president elect. Each team consists of four people. Three people will do 6 miles and one will do 7. So if you are a runner or a fast walker, come join your fellow Rotarians, and several thousand of your closest friends for a morning of great fun, great fellowship and a great race. Contact Sid Hirsh at 325-3110 (w) 204-6878 (c) or 326-0583 (h) NOW!
In the second largest El Tour de Tucson in its 28 year history, 8,800 riders participated in either 40, 66, 80 or 109 mile events. El Tour is the country's largest perimeter cycling event. Sixteen Rotary Clubs from District 55 participated with 21 representing the Rotary Club of Tucson team. Our team was made up of nine friends and the following members: JEFF ABBOTT, MATT BLAIR, JOHN COUSINS, GARY HIRSCH, KENT LAUGHBAUM, JONATHAN MARTIN, ELLE PATTERSON, ALAN ROGERS, DAN SPAHR, DARRELL STEWART, BRUCE TUNZE and SCOTT VAUGHAN. Gary Hirsch served as the committees co-chair (along with Casas Adobes Rotarian Mike Harris), this year, and will serve as the overall chair next year. Gary and Matt Blair were instrumental in obtaining jerseys and shorts with the Rotary logo and "End Polio Now" logo that provided great visibility for Rotary. Our club alone raised $9,945. The total amount raised by the clubs will be announced in the near future.
In case you missed our meeting of November 17th, the RCoT 5-year Strategic Plan was presented by KATHY KITAGAWA, JONI CONDIT and MARIANNE FREITAS. This plan is a result of our Visioning sessions and gives our club goals and direction for the next 5 years. To receive a copy, please ask Mary Laughbaum at our next meeting or download from our Home Page (right-hand column).
Pauline Hechler, CFRE, Vice President for Development at Community Food Bank is the recipient of the 2010 Outstanding Fundraising Professional Award, recognizing a professional fundraiser whose work exemplifies leadership, competence, achievement, ethical standards and commitment to philanthropy.
She was honored at a luncheon by the Association of Fundraising Professionals, Southern Arizona Chapter, during the 22nd annual National Philanthropy Day luncheon at Westin La Paloma.
Pauline increased development revenues at the Food Bank in terms of contributions, grants and government funding. Her service in the community includes RCOT Secretary of the Board, the Planned Giving Roundtable Board, and Arizona Town Hall. She received her Certified Fund Raising Executive certification in 2006, which only 20% of AFP members achieve.
Smiling volunteers greeted Rotarians as we arrived at the meeting with our donations for Goodwill and the NORMA PEAL Library at UPH. MARCIA KRUMWIEDE inspired us to "Recycle Here, Recycle There" in her invocation and newly-stented BILL COZINE led us in the Pledge and "America the Beautiful." ALAN SCHROPE generated big applause when introducing two of our scholarship students. Birthdays were celebrated by JOHN GIMMLER, JONATHAN MARTIN and President MARIANNE FREITAS, and cards were circulated for GARD PIERCE. DAN SPAHR and RICHARD WHITE introduced us to new members, Salvation Army Major CLEM LESLIE and pharmaceutical salesman MIKE SAGARA. LARRY PETH recognized MATT BLAIR for his generous contributions to the San Carlos Project and encouraged 2/3 of the club that has not yet donated to give. CAROLYN EMERINE put out the call to bring food and money donations to next week's Community Food Bank drive, and BOB SHAFF and TOM STRASBURG rallied for Bell Ringers with a thoughtful essay by GEORGE HAWKE. SCOTT VAUGHAN reminded us of the upcoming Board election and MARIANNE, JONI CONDIT and KATHY KITAGAWA presented the club's 5-year strategic plan. Move over, Oprah - guest speaker Mrs. Green encouraged us to "Get Your Green On" by thinking about small things we can do to save the planet. Find her on Facebook! The meeting closed with BILL ANASTOPOULOS' auction of UA basketball tickets and GARY HIRSCH'S announcement that Rotary is fielding 85 riders in this weekend's El Tour de Tucson.
University of Arizona Distinguished Professor Chris Impey really got our attention and piqued our imagination as he explained the current and future exploration of space, other planets and the possiblity of life (in "some form") out there, somewhere. As the Deputy Head of Department and the Academic Head, he runs the nations' largest undergraduate majors program in astronomy, and the second largest Ph.D. program.
THANK YOU CHRIS MOONEY, professional photographer and member of RCoT. At our last meeting, he took roster pictures of any of our members who either don't like their current picture, or don't have one in our roster. NEW MEMBERS who have a "blank" where there should be a picture in our roster were especially encouraged to get their picture taken. Thank you, Chris, for your professional expertise. See Chris's website at www.chrismooney.com to view his work!
Gina Murphy-Darling, AKA Mrs. Green, WOWED us at our November 17th meeting, as a messenger for Mother earth and all her inhabitants. With props and her delightful sense of humor, she showed us the little things we can do every day to make changes that are good for us and our planet. Together, we CAN make a difference!
Everybody all the
time at every opportunity; every time; for anybody is a possible RCOT member. HUGH THOMPSON made his point for us to think
about inviting somebody to become a RCOT Member. So, go out and get somebody to become a
member of the most remarkable Rotary Club in the World.
SHELBY HAWKINS introduced our newest member, TIM
BROWN who gave us some good information as to his work after Shelby told us all
about Tim's background. TOM ANDREWS told
us about the upcoming hike on the West side of the Tucson Mountains called the
Golden Gate Loop- this is a good one! JIM
RUBOYIANES introduced our friends from Boy Scout Troop 339 who sell popcorn
for all of us to buy. Jim suggested that
we buy some. ALAN SCHROPE reminded us
about the San Carlos adventure, so sign up with Jim. JOE NEVIN and ANNE SEGAL reminded
us about closed cleaning day November 17th so bring your carefully cared for
used stuff on Wednesday - DON'T FORGET the Norma Peale Memorial Book Drive too.
Board nominees are: JOHN LEWIS, DREW
VACTOR, TOM KIERNAN, IRENE DECKER, ALAN SCHROPE, and VIRGINIA LEAVITT. CLEM LESLEY is our newest member.
JIM LUBINSKI introduced Mark Irvin, a former
member. We hope that he will be
returning soon. His talk dealt with the trials and tribulations of the Rio Nuevo
Board of Directors. Mark's talk was very
revealing as to the goings on of Rio Nuevo Board; his talk was most
illuminating. TOM STRASBURG reminded us
about the Salvation Army. SONNY SOLOT celebrated
the second anniversary of his 42nd birthday. Our Car Show is the best
ever as stated by MARK ANDERSON - WOW!
President MARIANNE FREITAS called the meeting to order,
and DAN SPAHR gave the invocation. WALT
MASTIN led the pledge and song, with GARY GETHMANN at the piano.
President MARIANNE welcomed honorary member SUE VARNEY, seated
with WALT ROBERSON. SUE is the widow of
48-year RCOT member BILLY JOE VARNEY, who recently passed away.
ARNIE JACOBSEN introduced guests and visiting
Rotarians. Birthday boys were: DAVE
GALLAHER, who commented that he now is one of the "older" members who have four
or five birthdays a year; JACK MAREK, who was also celebrating his 53rd wedding
anniversary, and who quoted John Wayne as saying there are two things he
couldn't stand - stupid people, and that there are so many of them; and JASON
GRABOSCH, who was so upset about turning 40 that he forgot to sit at the birthday
table.
CHARLIE O'DOWD welcomed new member TIM BROWN with an RCOT
packet. Upcoming activities were plugged
by TOM ANDREWS (hiking on 11/13); JOE NEVIN (closet cleaning day/Norma Peal book
drive, 11/17); LARRY PETH (San Carlos trip, 12/3-6); and BOB SHAFF AND TOM
STRASBURG (Salvation Army bell-ringing, 12/4).
MATT BLAIR interviewed SID HIRSH, who turned a "history moment" into
many moments.
President MARIANNE and MARY MARTIN announced MARIANNE's
Green Project, a membership drive supported by an RCOT member (who will remain
anonymous), who has pledged $500 per new member gained (over members lost), up
to a total membership of 300, plus $10,000 if 300 is reached. The total pledge is worth up to $40,000 to be
split between Reading Seed and the Rotary Foundation.
PAT LENNAN nicked ROGER HARWELL for a $200
fine for his $26 million architecture project in New Mexico.
Speaker Bernard "Bunny" Fontana educated and entertained
the group with his talk about the art at San Xavier del Bac Mission. He solved the mystery of the incomplete
second tower at the mission, saying the friars ran out of money before
finishing.
Imagine, 100 energetic, bright, enthusiastic, fun loving 15, 16, 17 year olds standing in your living room, back yard, and kitchen for an entire weekend..... If you're not ready for that then consider RYLA as an alternative.
Each year in January, a group of about 30 volunteer Rotary mentors from District 5500 take high school sophomores and juniors on a life changing leadership conference. Clubs like ours support the conference by providing the scholarships funds to send these talented students to the conference. RYLA stands for Rotary Youth Leadership Award.
Our adult volunteer leaders spend the weekend with these student rising stars doing dozens of exercises focused on developing leadership fundamentals like those we see exhibited in Rotary and among the best of our community leaders. The conference also includes exercises in team building, and self-confidence, as well as discussions with Rotary mentors who expose these future leaders to a variety of real world issues as well as a whole new group of area students. You know how important establishing new relationships can be, and these young leaders are not only connecting with other young leaders in our community, they are making a connection with Rotary.
RYLA conferences have been an annual event since 1959 with Rotary clubs like ours who understand the value of offering young people a chance to get out of their comfort zone and discover more about leadership by offering these students RYLA - Rotary Youth Leadership Awards with scholarships.
Each year Rotary Club of Tucson provides three RYLA scholarships and each year these students return with greater ability to lead in their schools, and eventually lead in their communities. These young people are affected by RYLA and ultimately our Rotary Club through our scholarship program which is investing again to make a difference in the future of our community.
As in years past, the district is in need of additional funding for students. If you have a desire to support a student scholarship in any amount, please consider giving today. Each scholarship costs $350 and any amount would go a long way to helping continue the district's RYLA tradition. For more information about RYLA please visit the district website at http://www.rotaryd5500.org/youth10.htm
At our November 10th meeting, Mark Irvin brought us his perspective as the Vice Chair of the Rio Nuevo Multi-Facilities District Board of Directors . . . Rio Nuevo: What is the End Game? Earlier this year, Mark was appointed to the newly reconstituted Rio Nuevo Board, and is heavily focused in the effort to turn downtown Tucson around. He shared with us the all actions taken by the Board since its formation and the Board's goal to correct the many mishandlings and turn this project around.
STAR Training . . . your path to the coveted "Blue Badge!".
This is your chance to discover all the wonderful things about Rotary that you may have heard mentioned and their importance. Learn some history about our club, "The FIRST Rotary Club in Tucson."
This two hour session will be informative and entertaining. All STAR members are required to attend the two STAR se
ssions before being granted Blue Badge status. Mark your calendars for the next sessions:
Session "A" - February 22, 2011, 5:30 - 7:30 PM and
Session "B" - January 25, 2011 -OR- March 29, 5:30 - 7:30 PM
Membership is the lifeblood of our club and one of our members has taken this idea so seriously that they have committed to making a $ 500 donation for each new "net" member. In our 5 Year Strategic Plan, one of the goals is to have 300 members in our club. This anonymous donor has agreed to donate $ 500 for each new "net" member untiil we reach our goal of 300 members.
Once we reach our goal of 300 members, then if we maintain that number the following year, there will be an additional $10,000 given to our club so the total donation amount will be $ 40,000! We will have up to 5 years to complete this goal.
Currently we have 236 members, so we need 64 new "net" members to reach our goal. The donations will be made annually in December. Half the donation will be allocated to Reading Seed and the other half to the Rotary Foundation.
Please help us reach our goal of 64 new "net" members so that Reading Seed and our Foundation can benefit from this generous donation. Thank you!
The following new member has been accepted according to club policies as a member of the Rotary Club of Tucson. He will be introduced to the membership at a meeting in the near future!
New Member: Tim Brown Classification: Consulting: Resource Solutions Sponsor: Shelby Hawkins
President MARIANNE opened the meeting with PAT ZUMBUSCH leading us in prayer, then, by default, President MARIANNE led us in the Pledge and "America the Beautiful".
Head baker (cookie monster) CHARLIE MEAKER introduced guests and visiting Rotarians, and birthdays were celebrated by JEFF HEATH, ED PARKER and RICK ROSE.
BOB LOGAN did his usual eloquent Paul Harris presentations to JOHN COOK, KANDY HIRSCH, and perhaps Rotary's youngest Paul Harris Fellow COLE TAYLOR ADAMS, DAN CHAMBERS' grandson. The Chambers' are celebrating 75 years of continuous family Rotary membership.
Announcements were made by ELLIE PATTERSON, GARY HIRSCH, ALAN SCHROPE and CHUCK SAWYER.
Past President and outgoing Car Show Chair JON (who?) WANG announced spectacular results for the car show.major sponsors Lucky Wishbone and Wells Fargo Wealth Management, 13,700 tickets sold before the event, Silent Auction netted $2,300, 421 cars, 50 vendors and MAYBE over $90,000 net to the cause.THANKS JON!
President MARIANNE announced three awards from the District Conference. RCOT had the highest retention of members in District 5500, Highest donations to Polio Plus and TOM ANDREWS' special recognition for his efforts with Youth Exchange.
Our speakers, DAN HUNTING and DAVE RICHINS from the Sonoran Institute clarified the value of the "Sun Corridor" and emphasized that a key to Tucson's economic future lies in distinguishing ourselves from Phoenix.OHHHHH YES!
It's time to plan the ways each of us are going to help others this upcoming Holiday Season. The need has never been greater.
One of the best attributes of our Remarkable Rotary Club is that, because of our size, we are able to support many options during the year for "Service Above Self". This Holiday Season is a great example. The "Gold Standard" of options for our members to serve is our "San Carlos Project", where we make Christmas a little birghter for needy kids and families in Mexico. Sign up now for this annual trip to San Carlos on December 3-6, 2010.
If you are not able to participate in the San Carlos Project, another option exists on that same weekend. Our Club's annual support of the Salvation Army is scheduled for Saturday, December 4th. We need at least 120 club members, friends, and family to sign up to "Ring the Bell" for just two hours on Saturday for the Salvation Army at 14 locations throughout our community. Historically, our Club has raised between $6,000 and $ 9,000 for Salvation Army. You can be part of this effort by donating just two hours of your time.
Volunteer today for your preference of location and time on Clubrunner. if you have difficulty with Clubrunner, let BOB SHAFF or TOM STRASBURG know your preferences, and we will sign you up.
BOB SHAFF and TOM STRASBURG, co-chairs, Salvation Army Bell Ringing Project
Meeting The Membership Challenge: As you all should know, we have a historical challenge from an anonymous donor who would like to see us increase our membership back to 300. We started the challenge on December 1, 2010 with our "official" membership at 238. On the same date in 2011, if we have increased our membership above that amount, the donor will pay $ 500 for each new net member, i.e., if we gain 4 members (242) the amount would be $ 2,000. This should not be the ONLY reason you tell your friends and colleagues about our phenomenal club, but it is a good incentive to spread the word!
Why join RCoT and what do you say to a potential member? First, prepare and familiarize yourself with our new club brochure (which is always on hand at our meeting registration desk) and decide what you want to say. Your words can be reinforced and better remembered if the potential member goes away with this brochure in their hands. If some interest is indicated, invite the potential member to a meeting. Once a desire to join has been indicated, pick up a New Member Packet at the meeting registration desk which includes more Rotary information, the Sponsor Form and Application for membership.
The Process: Once the potential member has turned in their application and initiation fee of $ 300.00 to the office, Mary Laughbaum will provide them with two "free lunch" tickets to be used while approval is pending. The approval process takes several weeks, during which the potential member is responsible for payment of their lunch and remains a guest of their sponsor.
The application is first reviewed by the Classifications Committee. References are checked, the potential member's background and community service history are reviewed and a classification is determined. Next the applicant meets with a member of the Information Committee for an explanation of Rotary, our dues and expectations. Once their interest in proceeding to become a member is confirmed, the applicant's name is put before your Board of Directors for approval.
The last step in the process is publication in our newsletter. There is a one week period after publication during which any member can voice an objection to the proposed member. If no objections are received, the member, their sponsor and the Mentor Committee receive notice of approval of membership.
Almost 200 RCoT members and their guests who attended the holiday party December 22nd found wonderful food (personally prepared by member DANNY SCORDATO), a comfortable, warm room at the Windmill Inn with lots of tables/chairs, a guitarist to provide mood music, lots of fellowship, and a no-host bar provided by Danny as well. Thank you to GINGER LEAVITT, MARY MARTIN and RITA MARSHALL for making all the arrangements. They are the true "party girls"!!
Various items were left behind at the Car Show: A denim long-sleeved U of A shirt, various reader type eyeglasses, a complete set of keys which appear to include a Nissan car key, LISA FOGEL clothing, a coffee mug and a RCOT baseball cap. Please claim your items at the Registration desk at our meeting on Nov. 3rd. Unclaimed items will be disposed of.
Bunny Fontana is a founding member and former secretary fo the Patronato San Xavier, a non profit corporation whose concern is with the conservation of Mission San Xavier del Bac. He is author, co-author, or editor of more than twenty-five books and of innumerable publications in both professional and popular journals. His most recent book, with photographer Edward McCain, is "A Gift of Angels, The Art of Mission San Xavier del Bac".
To those of you who missed it, Sierra Vista hosted a very successful District Conference this past weekend. The keynote speakers were Jennifer Jones, (a past DG/President of her club in Canada and representative for Rotary International President Ray Klinginsmith. Steve Werner(Program Chair, Water and Sanitation Rotarian Action Group)and Lorraine Rivera(News Anchor,KVOA-TV,Channel 4, Tucson). The agenda was packed with information and inspiration.
Breakout sessions on the subjects of Fundraising, Membership Retention, Polio Plus, Service Projects and Water Projects were enjoyed by our members who attended: TOM ANDREWS, BOB ERNSTEIN, MARIANNE FREITAS, CHARLOTTE HARRIS, TOM KIERNAN, GINGER LEAVITT, RITA MARSHALL, MARY MARTIN, and JON WANG. The meeting was concluded with a touching recognition of District 5500 members we lost over the past year.
Of course, there were fun activities as well: A tour of Ft. Huachuca, a golf tournament, a trail ride, a nature walk, a service project, and tours to other nearby sites. Get ready to support our own BOB ERNSTEIN who will be making all the plans for next year when RCoT will host the District Conference, at the Doubletree Hotel, October 28-30, one week after our car show.
Instead of a secret "Blue" one, we now have a "Secret Green Project"! Just wait till you hear about the this one!! This never-been-done-before historical project will be revealed at our November 3, 2010 meeting and will affect the future of our club. Don't miss it!
The following new members have been accepted
according to club policies as members of the Rotary Club of Tucson. They will be introduced by their sponsors to the membership at meetings in the near future!
New Member: Ted Kiracofe Classification: Consulting: Business & Sales Sponsor: Ken Tucker
New Member: Clement Leslie Classification: Community & Social Services: Salvation Army Sponsor: Dan Spahr
New Member: Michael Sagara Classification: Pharmaceutical: Sales Sponsor: Richard White
The
Sonoran Institute recently undertook a major research project relating to the
economic viability and future for the Sun Corridor, which extends from Prescott
to Nogales.What they found relating to
Tucson's economic positioning could have a profound impact on how we can and
should approach economic development to achieve the greatest success.The project director, Dave Richins, and the major researcher, Dan Hunting,
discussed the results and answered your questions.
I received the following e-mail from one of our entrants in the TCCS. Be sure to read what he is doing with his check!! Dave Gallaher
"I want to say what a wonderful car show. I just finished the truck on Wednesday and have not entered in a show before. I know how many people it takes and how what it takes to plan and execute an event like this one. I was very excited to place first in my class. I have endorsed the check and placed it in an envelope back to your organization (Mailed to your office) as a donation.
Great time. Great event. Lots of people.People that appreciate we came and participated in the event.
Again, thank you.Dean P. Cotlow, SIOR, CRE, FRICS, CCIMPresident/Designated BrokerCotlow Company (US)"
On October 11, 2010, we lost a good friend and fellow Rotarian. Billy Joe Varney was the ideal Rotarian and family man. A past president of our club and a past district 5500 District Governor, he was an outstanding, tenacious, loving and compassionate man who instilled ambition and leadership skills in others. He had a quick wit and the ability to make friends with everyone. It seemed like everywhere he went, people were drawn to his charismatic energy. He is survived by Sue, his wife of fifty nine years, five daughters, a brother, ten grandchildren and three great grandchildren. We will all miss his open arms, big grin and "Okie" drawl.
WOW! The RCoT members, spouses, family members and friends who worked our show, led by Show Chair JON WANG, were awesome Saturday!! It was truly amazing to watch the show appear on the St. Gregory Preparatory School field, then fill up with cars and people. Having watched this event grow and improve each year, I felt that this year was a milestone toward finally feeling that we have created a signature show, captured quality car entries, the attention from the media, significant support from our sponsors, and fabulous support from people who just wanted to come see the cars and enjoy a beautiful day. As quickly as it appeared on that field, poof it was all gone; leaving a beautiful, grassy field! It's almost like a big wedding you planned all year that is over in what seems like an instant.
I received the following e-mail from Brian Bray, the president of the Cadillac-LaSalle club. They combined with the T-Bird club and had reserved spaces for 31 cars at this year's TCCS. We did have a few gliches with getting them into their proper spaces, etc., but all worked out for the best and his e-mail contains the article that they are putting into their newsletter. Thanks to everyone for all the help and support to make the show the best ever.
Tom Strasburg
Tom,
I was asked to write an article for car club newsletters giving my impressions of the show. I thought you might be interested in my impressions.
Thanks again for all of your efforts. There were some minor "glitches" and they should be corrected for next year but we all have to keep in mind that this is a one day car show and everyone should enjoy themselves.
Brian
ROTARY SHOW 2010
The Tucson Classics Car show continues to evolve and grow. This is a major civic event providing substantial funding for a very worthwhile cause. Everyone is grateful to the tremendous volunteer effort from the members of the local Rotary Club as well as the, food vendors, and business sponsors, the school, etc.
But the real key to the success of the event is the support of the Tucson area collector car community and the 500 car enthusiasts each paying $25 to enter each vehicle which in turn attracts many people to pay $5 admission to look at the cars.
At any car show, quality is in the eyes of the beholder, but everyone agrees that even though the size of the event is limited to approximately 500 cars, the overall quality of the cars at this show continues to improve each year. In my opinion, there is a very sound reason for the constant improvement of the Tucson Classics Car Show.
The Rotary Club works hard to attract worthwhile sponsors and those sponsors receive real value and recognition for being a part of this show; otherwise, they would curtail their involvement. The monies received from the sponsors and the admission gate proceeds, etc. are the PRIMARY sources for the funds that the Rotary then donates to their designated charity: Rotary does not depend on the entry fees from the car owners as the primary funding for their charity. In fact, unlike some of the other local car events, Rotary recognizes that value and attraction of the collector cars at their event; without great cars, the show would be a bust. Rotary's policy is to recycle most of the car entry money back to the entrants in form of substantial cash prizes, trophies, etc. and utilize the admission fees and sponsor fees as the primary charity funding source. That's why this show offers cash prizes unmatched by any other area show; cash attracts quality cars.
The success of this formula is quite evident as the Tucson Classics Car Show in 4 years has clearly become the premier car show of the area. We all know that car collectors invest a great deal of money (just ask their spouses) and a great deal of time into their car(s). Sure they like (maybe even love) the car hobby. If they didn't, they wouldn't make the commitment; but some show sponsors mistakenly assume that car collectors will gladly pay just to display their cars. Those of us involved in car clubs and the car hobby know that there is more to it than that.
The Tucson area is becoming a mecca for car enthusiasts; and every car enthusiast is willing to be a part of the community and support local causes; I would only hope that the area car collector event sponsors organizers recognize they they will receive more money for their cause with the same effort by reaching out beyond just entrance fees from the collector car owners for the charity funding of their event. Rotary clearly recognizes that without the cars, there would be no event and they also recognize that if the quality of the cars continues to improve, that more sponsors and more admission fees will clearly follow.
Some car events, like the Tucson Classics event are growing, while
others have declining car entrants and declining admissions. With more cars and more car enthusiasts in the area, those sponsors seeing declines may want to alter their approach to mirror that of the Rotary Club.
Rotary Club of Tucson WILL NOT HAVE A MEETING THIS WEDNESDAY, October 20th. This week is considered "Dark," with no make-up requirement. Celebrate the success of the Tucson Classics Car Show! A heartfelt "Thank you" to members for contributing time, talent, and treasure!
Note:
I'd like to take the opportunity for this editorial submission to be an example of my appreciation ofyou, my fellow Rotarians. Every lunch, every
time of fellowship, every time I hear stories, I am so humbled and feel excitement
to be a member of such a wonderful organization
PRESIDENT
MARIANNE brought the meeting to order. Then SCHUY LININGER offered a great
remembrance of BILLY JOE VARNEY. Billy Joe exemplified what it means to be a
Rotarian. He touched the lives and brought out the best in all of us. Not only
was he the roots, but he was the tree, branches and leaves that holds the nest
of "Service Above Self." I don't mean to get to philosophic, but it's important
for us to remember what a great example of Rotarian and human he was.
SUZANNE
LAWDER offered a nice invocation. MARSHALL DENNINGTON and GARY GETHMANN made a
great team to lead us in "America the Beautiful." Tone deaf as I may be, I do love to sing
patriotic songs!
JEFF
RONSTADT introduced our guests and prospective members. It's great to see new
faces!
Happy
birthday to DAN CHAMBERS, VIC JACOBS and BILL HARLOW! Dan and Vic share their
birthday on the same day.If you ever want a child to be a realtor, plan to have
them born on October 13. Dan offered an insight into his choice of career path
and in his opinion, what careers might be worse than a realtor. It doesn't
sound like a lot of choices.
CHUCK
SAWYER took the mic and reminded us to invite guests to the lunch. The more
members, the more good we can do for our community..and the less times you may
be asked to serve on a committee. He also noted the St. Gregory's sold a whole
bunch of tickets. Special thanks to all of their assistance with the Car Show!
Next,
President Marianne offered BILL LINDAMOOD the opportunity to buy his new member
packet back after it had been left last week. Bill drove a hard bargain and seemed
to get a pretty good deal getting it back.
And
then, the Car Show. DOCTOR WANG has been a great leader and I'm certain will be
sad to be relieved of his position as the Committee Chair. Service above Self?
Yes, or why else would he be sending me emails on Sunday at 8pm? Thank you for
your service Dr. JON WANG! Jon invited BOB SHAFF to the stage. Bob's another
guy who gives a lot. Man, I'm really feeling humble at this point. Bob let us
know that we could have potentially sold more tickets this year than last. It
was with great pleasure that after the meeting I was able to "high five" Bob as
he announced to Jon that the Rotary Club of Tucson did indeed beat last year's
effort. Great work y'all! Well, by the time the three of you who get this far
in a mystery editor's post read this, the rest of the day's events will not
apply. Jon shared details for the Car Show to include
all of the committee leaders and where we need to be on Thursday, Friday,
Saturday and Sunday.Thank you to all of
you for your great work, selfless effort and for being my mentors as I travel
through life. I'm humbled to be part of this club and for you to call me a
fellow Rotarian. In the Powerpoint words of Jon Wang "Seize the day!"
Join us at the Tucson Classics Car Show, event sponsored by Lucky Wishbone - A Tucson Tradition, this Saturday, October 16th. 10:00 am - 4:00 pm on the lawn at St Gregory College Preparatory School 3231 N. Craycroft between River and Fort Lowell.
Come see 500 of the Southwest's best classic Cars!Tickets are $5 per adult and provide a chance to win a 1997 Corvette or $10,000 cash! Children under 18 are free with paid adult.
Proceeds benefit Reading Seed Children's Literacy Program and other local charities.
In recognition of World Polio Day on Oct. 24th, The Rotary Foundation will match all ON-LINE contributions of $100 or more made to PolioPlus during the period Oct. 18-24. This means if you contribute $100 to PolioPlus, with the matching funds, you will receive 200 points toward your Paul Harris Fellow.
This is a GREAT OPPORTUNITY but must be completed during the Oct. 18-24 window to be eligible. To contribute, log on to: www.rotary.org/contribute. If you have questions, contact PolioPlus Chair Past Dist. Gov. Tom Tilton at: tilton13@cox.net.
President MARIANNE called the meeting to order at exactly 12:01 PM. PP JIM RONSTADT gave the invocation which asked the Lord to bless the upcoming car show with a good attendance and good receipts. Amen. JIM WOOD accompanied by world class pianist PP GARY GETHMANN led us in "America the Beautiful". After our Doubletree gourmet lunch, Pres. MARIANNE thanked PP ARNE JACOBSEN for arranging that we would get oatmeal raisin cookies as well as the chocolate chips. Well done, ARNIE. JEFF RONSTADT introduced the guests and visitors, Birthdays were celebrated by PP JIM MURPHY & JUDY KEAGY. 91 year old PP GEORGE HAWKE introduced our newest member. BILL LINDAMOOD, a youngster of 89. These two lads have been friends since their college days at the U of A. RICK RUPKEY promoted the upcoming membership mixer; TOM ANDREWS promoted the hike on Oct 9 to Atascosa Peak; PP JIM RONSTADT talked about the Zarka Science Lab in Jordan; PP JON WANG encouraged everyone to get a blue ROTARY community worker T shirt; DOT KRET,PP BOB SHAFF & JOHN LEWIS. Sgt at Arms PAT LENNAN fined CHARLIE O'DOWD for publicity about his solar business but Pres MARIANNE nullified the fine since CHARLIE has such a great son (starting center on the USC football team while maintaining an A grade average). KENT LAUGHBAUM did pay a fine for giving the President the same spent shell that he gave to everyone on his team while telling her that she had a very unique one. PAT LENNAN reminded everyone of the pre car show dinner, Friday Oct 15. Then it was on to our speaker. JIM LUBINSKI introduced Jesse Kelly, Republican and candidate for Congressional District 8.
Some of you have asked the status of our past executive director. Last June your Board voted unanimously to press charges. She pleaded guilty to Count Four: Forgery, A class Four Felony. In lieu of prison sentencing she agreed to a plea agreement with Pima County to enter a Diversion program. In this program she will be assessed and must follow the court-ordered counseling, community service, testing, and pay certain fees related to such, for a period of 18-24 mos. Upon successful completion, the charges will be dropped.
If she does not complete the diversion program to the satisfaction of the Pima County Diversion Program she will be terminated from the program, the court will enter a judgment of guilt, and report a conviction as a result. She will then be sentenced to a range of 1 to 3-3/4 years.
Scott Vaughan's mother, Nancy Lee Vaughan, passed away Wednesday, September 29, at 3:45 PM.
She had been living comfortably at La Posada's Hacienda Health Care, Green Valley, AZ, until two nights before when her condition suddenly worsened. Friends and family visited with her Tuesday and Wednesday. She was boosted by their presence, good wishes and love; and she suffered no pain in her last days.
A brief graveside service for family and a reception in Green Valley for her friends and family were held Monday, October 4.
Fourteen club members and their spouses spend an interesting and an informative four plus hours on Saturday, October 02, 2010 learning, on site, about various aspects of the proposed Rosemont Copper Mine. We met at I-10 and Houghton and were hosted the entire morning by Rod Pace, Rosemont President and CEO, and Dennis Fischer, Rosemont Site Coordinator.
As we approached the property, important aspects of the mining area were pointed out to us. We visited the structure housing all of the mining core samples taken from the region since mining started in the 1880's. Next, we had a presentation by Jeff Cornoyer, Rosemont Geologist, at the location where geologists evaluate the cores for copper and other minerals. We then drove to the top of the site where the mine will eventually be one mile deep.
Following our site visit, we had a briefing at the Center which included: trends in copper grade, price and production; project layout; mine plan of operations; 21st century design philosophy; Rosemont's support of higher education and a review of the 100 Tucson area businesses involved with the project; net zero impact to the water table with water comparison chart of five users (32,258 acre-feet average annual pumping for agriculture in Green Valley, 6,000 acre-feet permitted for Rosemont who also is the only group compared that recharges 100% of the water they use); project financing, and other very sensitive environmental issues that are being addressed scientifically by Rosemont Copper. Of the 400 plus on-site jobs that will be created, 2,100 jobs in the community will be supportive of the project. All in all, those attending were in agreement that Rosemont Copper is responding to and initiating elements to this project reflecting their sincere concern for the environment and citizens of Southern Arizona.
Rosemont Copper - A Bridge to a Sustainable Future
Did you happen to notice the change to a beautiful new banner picture at the top of our Tucsotarian? We have renowned photographer and past (deceased) RCoT member RAY MANLEY to thank for his gift of 10 pictures from his personal collection for use as the banner pictures for our Tucsotarian. More to come as the seasons change!
President
MARIANNE FREITAS called the meeting to order and asked DARRELL STEWART to give
the invocation.As a person involved in
non-profits here in town (clue to who I am.), I really appreciated the
fundraising tip Darrell gave about Henry Ford and how the hospital raised
$50,000 from him.
ERNIE
MINCHELLA led the patriotic song accompanied by GARY HIRSCH.I always enjoy learning new Italian words - I
feel like I'm ready to head to Olive Garden now.
KEN
LIGHT introduced our guests including one mystery guest who will be coming next
week with SID HIRSH - no need to introduce this person again next week.I remember we had a visiting Rotarian from
Dallas.
As I was passing the rolls
around the table, there was something about a guy named Harris being introduced
from another club who is related to CHARLOTTE HARRIS in our club.I'll just say that it's confusing for a new
member (again another clue to my identity) when you have relatives in different
clubs and relatives in the same club..I'm still trying to figure out your name - if you're someone's
son-in-law that's probably more than I can handle! Birthdays
today included STEVE CHRISTY and HOWARD BIRCH.
Here
are the important reminders from the announcement section: MICHELLE
HUTCHINSON is a good bocce ball player (had to look the spelling up. sorry
ERNIE). TOM
ANDREWS is on the lookout - although I'm not sure for what.I was trying to decide which kind of cookie
to take and didn't quite catch everything.That's the problem with choices. ALAN
SHROPE needs you to sign up now for San Carlos. JOHN
LEWIS gets up early.DAN GUARE will buy
you beer at Oktoberfest!What else do
you need to know!
CHARLOTTE
HARRIS (who is married to the Rotary guest and has a son-in-law in the club)
introduced new member JOHN GIMMLER. PAT
LENNAN soaked a few guys for doing good in the community.Those under the gun included JONATHAN MARTIN
for participating on a U.S. Education panel and DAVE GALLAHER because he was a
former student of Pat's.How long does
the persecution last?
JIM
RONSTADT introduced our speaker, STEVE MOFFETT, to discuss the TCC Hotel
project.Being relatively new to the
community it was interesting to learn more about how Rio Nuevo works . . .
Raffle
winners included GARY SCHEER, BOB ERNSTEIN, and DOT KRET. PRESIDENT MARIANNE ended the meeting with a good and entertaining toast.
Thank you to EVERYONE for helping make our RI President Elect Kalyan Banerjee and wife Binota's visit to our club a memorable one. Those of you who were able to attend the meeting witnessed a very historical event in the Rotary world and were not disappointed in what Kalyan had to say.
Behind the scenes, there were several who should also be thanked. GINGER LEAVITT did a fantastic job providing a complimentary suite at the Doubletree for the Banerjee's Wednesday night stay and special accomodations for the press conference. The Doubletree couldn't have been more helpful in making sure the press conference and luncheon went as planned.
SCOTT VAUGHAN and JACK PARRIS organized the Public Relations and Press Conference for the event and photos after the meeting.
PE JONI CONDIT and new Reading Seed Board member CLIFF BOWMAN hosted a visit of the Banerjee's and Silvers' at the Reading Seed library before our regular meeting.
After the meeting, Phil and Kathleen Silvers took the Banerjees to visit BILLY JOE VARNEY which was a really special event for all, including wife Sue and daughter Shelley who were also present.
Thank you to all who joined us at our membership networking mixer Thursday night Oct. 7th at Vivace Pizzeria! We had about 60 Rotarians and guests all enjoying delicious Vivace Pizzeria food, drinks and a wonderful time of fellowship and networking! DANNY SCORDATO and his team did an outstanding job of keeping the delicious pizza, mozzarella, tomatoes, cheese and penne pasta coming and the drinks flowing! The weather was perfect and it was such a pleasure getting to know each other a little better. It was especially nice having 3 past presidents and wives in attendance; MIKE ANDERSON, GARY GETHMANN, JON WANG, CHARLOTTE HARRIS, SCOTT VAUGHAN and current President, MARIANNE FREITAS. We encourage you to come join us for our next networking mixer in December.
Jesse Kelly made the decision to run for Congress the day President Obama signed the $787 billion stimulus package. Jesse shared with the audience that he would fight for solutions that work in order to create jobs and get the economy moving again. He feels that his military leadership and business experience would be valuable for representing southern Arizona in Congress.
Steve Moffett, President of the Hospitality Division of Garfield Traub, has overall responsibility for all hotel development projects from initial selection of project pursuits through final delivery to clients. Steve gave us a great summary of the facts, figures, and timeline for the Tucson Convention Center hotel project. After the meeting, he graciously remained for more Q&A from our membership.
Forty-five Rotarians have signed up to ride in El Tour de Tucson, including many of our own RCOT members: GARY HIRSCH, JEFF ABBOTT, DARRELL STEWART, ALAN ROGERS, ELLIE PATTERSON, SCOTT VAUGHAN, and KENT LAUGHBAUM. There's still time to target any
donation you make of $100 or more (birthdays, fines, etc.) for El Tour Polio
Plus and the club will match that donation 1 point for each dollar. Sponsor a
RCOT El Tour rider for at least $100 and, you guessed it, earn a point for
every dollar you donate. Note that all donations must be made prior to November
1 in order to be matched by the club.
Fellow
Rotarian Don Shropshire received the Arizona Town Hall Shirley Agnos
Legacy Award at the Annual Luncheon held at the Arizona Biltmore in
Phoenix on September 23rd. The award is presented, "to one caring
and impactful individual, company or organization who has positively impacted
the State of Arizona based on the following criteria: a long and dedicated
record of working to improve our state and the lives of our citizens; a proven
record of creating consensus positions from differing points of view; an active
advocate on behalf of statewide issues; and highly respected and of the highest
integrity."
For those of you who are new members and old ones who have never been, a District Conference is a gathering of all the Rotary members in our district to hear inspirational guest speakers, see new member inductions, take part in informative breakout sessions, learn club news and enjoy entertainment, area tours, a golf tournament, and much more. The event will be held at the Windemere Hotel & Conference Center in Sierra Vista, and the theme is 'Water-It's for Life". The hotel is offering a special conference rate of $ 92.68 which includes tax, breakfast and one drink in the hotel lounge! (520-459-5900 for hotel reservations)
The keynote speaker will be past Executive Director and current board member of "Water for people", Steve Werner. He will speak on how Rotary clubs can get involved in service projects that will have a major impact on the six areas of focus that correspond to the Rotary foundation's mission, in particular, water and sanitation.
All RCOT members' registration is paid through your dues, but you must visit the web site to sign up: www.rotaryd5500.org Click on the "Register" button and sign in with your e-mail address to see the agenda and then the cost of meals and tours/events. You can attend for the whole event, or part. Saturday is the day of the main event and keynote speaker. We would like to see a good representation of our club at this great event. There will be no RCOT meeting on Wed. Oct. 20th, so you will have extra time in your week to take part in the district conference and enjoy exploring the Sierra Vista area. Try it, you'll like it!
KENT LAUGHBAUM told the story behind the taking of the photo he donated to our club for auction, entitled "Strike Eagles Launch for Enduring Freedom". It had to be a very surreal moment for the pilots and their families that day as they prepared to defend our country.
The auction bids for this one-of-a-kind photo were brisk and elevated quickly with members
JOHN LEWIS and SHELBY HAWKINS battling back and forth. RCOT auctioneer BILL ANASTOPOULIS keep up the excitement and in the end, a bid for $2,000 was won by John Lewis.
Kent then stepped up to offer his own personal, and the last copy of this photo to Shelby and she jumped at the chance to own one, too, for $ 1,900. (Her pre-set limit was $ 1,000 but her competitive nature took over!) Kent holds the original file for this photo and assures us that another copy will never be made.
So, how do you describe this photo, and the generosity of Kent, John and Shelby???? PRICELESS!
If you were a wishy-washy Rotarian, and attended the last RCOT meeting on 9/8, you aren't now! MIKE ANDERSON inspired us all with his hints on how to supercharge your membership!
He should know! Mike is a 29 year member, past president, creator of "10 Bucks Wins a Dream Home" (which with the $250,000 proceeds raised our Foundation corpus to over a $ 1 million), is Foundation Strategic Planning Chair, was our club's first ever Fundraiser Chair starting a live and silent auction in 1986 (which raised $ 20,000), started the STAR committee in 1991 with TOM BROWNING, was Attendance Chair in 1992 (leading our club to 99% perfect attendance for one month), started the Salvation Army Bell ringing in 1993, and as President in 2000 started Home Hospitality and the Blood Drive. Whew!
With his creative mind, who knows what this "Energizer Bunny" might come up with next? He challenges us all to be creative, think outside the box to make your club even better, and to optimize your membership. In otherwords - don't wait to be asked, just GET INVOLVED!
(The Car Show is a good starting point! Watch for sign up opportunities. We want 100% involvement for our one and only fundraiser!!... and it is FUN!)
President MARIANNE FREITAS called us to order at noon
sharp.BOB ERNSTEIN'S invocation was
more meaningful knowing that Labor Day was begun in 1882 in NYC by the Knights
of Labor - a group not unlike our own.WALT
MASTIN led the Pledge and song assisted ably by GARY GETHMANN on piano.JEFF RONSTADT introduced our guests including
State Representative Vic Williams, who bought Car Show tickets.ASA BUSHNELL, BOB ERNSTEIN, DAVID PASHKOW and
JIM SEESE celebrated their birthdays.Bushnell
gave a shout out to JOAN MCNAMARA - it's nice to have you back!Ernstein shares a birthday with BILLY JOE
VARNEY, still laid up and very much in our thoughts and prayers.
Past Presidents CHARLOTTE HARRIS and SCOTT VAUGHAN presented
"beautiful Paul Harris certificates with shiny naugahyde covers" to Paul Harris
Fellows ASA BUSHNELL, STEVE CHRISTY and Suzie Christy.TOM ANDREWS announced plans for easier Club
hikes as measured on the hernia scale.LARRY
ADAMSON told the old goats of Rotary to get out there and look for a few good
prospective members.BOB SHAFF and JOHN
LEWIS reported that Car Show ticket sales are up more than $14,000 over last
year at this time.They thanked JONI
CONDIT, DAN CHAMBERS, NINA DALDRUP, KENT LAUGHBAUM, TONY PEDROZA and JIM
SUMWALT for recent successes in salesmanship.Seeing no way out, Bruce Wright bought 10 tickets on the spot.MIKE ANDERSON spoke eloquently on ways to "super
charge" your Rotary experience.
CHARLOTTE HARRIS introduced guest speaker and former
member Bruce Wright, CEO of the UA Tech Park and President of the AZ Center for
Innovation.Bruce's operation focuses on
new business and better-paying jobs that will boost the local economy.On-site education opportunities, kindergarten
through Master's degree, in the areas of solar energy, border security and
technology, biosciences and biotech will prepare the talented next generation
of Tucson's work force.DREW VACTOR and VICKIE
JACOBS asked great questions about percentage of private sector jobs (all) and age
that students will begin to really engage in the work environment (high
school.)
Auction boss RICK RUPKEY introduced BILL ANASTOPOULOS to
conduct the incredible auction of KENT LAUGHBAUM'S extraordinary, secret photograph of his
squadron taking off for Afghanistan on October 7, 2001, shortly after the
attacks of 9/11.Bidding was fierce as
the stakes escalated beyond our wildest expectations with SHELBY HAWKINS and JOHN
LEWIS pulling ahead of the pack.Ultimate winner, Lewis received a wet-eyed, rousing ovation and Laughbaum
brought down the house by generously offering the only other print extant, his
personal possession, to Hawkins for the penultimate bid.GARY SCHEER and JESSE THORPE capped the day
with generous bids for football tickets.Wow!What a great Rotary Club!
This week, September 15, there will be NO MEETING at the DoubleTree! If you
are attending or hosting a Home Hospitality event, enjoy the fun, food,
and fellowship this week! If you did not sign up for Home Hospitality,
remember to accomplish a make-up at another Rotary Club or through the
E-Makeup option online.
All interested in participating with the sick and visitation committee to give support to our members that are struggling with illness or loss, please join our meeting after our regular club meeting on Sept. 8 for more information. All
who felt working with Jeff Bloom was a rewarding experience might consider this committee. Please contact Hugh Thompson or Don Rollings if there are questions.
The San Carlos Schools Project has been the Club's signature International Service Project that began 20 years ago as a joint project of Rotary Clubs of Tucson and San Carlos, Mexico. If you have any questions, please call Alan and Lisa Schrope at 237-0832 and we will provide the answers. Please respond right away! If you cannot join us on the trip, you can still help with a donation (any amount) toward gifts and food for the children and their families. LET'S MAKE THIS YEAR'S 20th ANNIVERSARY THE BEST EVER!!! Please sign up or donate now!
The Rotary Club of Tucson was honored to host Kalyan Banerjee, President Elect of Rotary International, when he presented his vision for Rotary at the combined meeting. As president, Banerjee will lead a global network of 1.2 million business and professional leaders from more than 200 countries and geographic regions. He has been a member of Rotary since 1972 and will be the third president from India. "I am honored to lead Rotary as its 101st president." Banerjee added that Rotary's strengths include its ability to attract leaders from different vocations around the world, as well as its role in promoting peace.
Bruce Wright directs the University of Arizona's Office of University Research Parks (OURP). He serves as the CEO of the UA Science and Technology Park (Tech Park) and Arizona Bioscience Park (Bio Park) and president of the Arizona Center for Innovation (AzCI). He is also president of the Campus Research Corporation (CRC), which assists the University of Arizona in the development, operation, marketing and leasing of the Tech Park and Bio Park.
Madam President called the meeting to order promptly at noon to an audience of Chocolate Chip Cookie lovers and a small number of suck-up Oatmeal Cookie lovers.
JACK PARRIS gave the invocation. GORDON SHAW led us with the pledge and the song with GARY HIRSCH at the keyboard.
CLIFF BOWMAN introduced one local visiting Rotarian and guests of Rotarians.
Birthday boys PHIL GUTT, ART ALLIS and BILL COZINE, were seated at the head table where they enjoyed Cheesecake with fresh berries plus cookies. Bill did his best to imitate SID HIRSH promoting his business. Hopefully the four other absent birthday boys will put a check in the mail.
Our fabulous Paul Harris team of BOB LOGAN and CHARLOTTE HARRIS presented to BILL HARLOW, JIM HERZFELD and BURT LAZAR. Bob couldn't resist giving Bill a cheap plant from some Grocery Store. Bob failed to mention if he got that grocery store to cough up a grand.
PAT LENNAN'S looks really improved as he donned a visor with blond hair. The Sergeant of Arms proceeded to find two new fine opportunities. ERNIE MINCHELLA for winning at Bocce Ball and MICHELLE HUTCHINSON for dying her hair. Pat - don't get rid of that visor and keep being creative.
Queen Marianne fined JEFF RONSTADT 5 bucks on some cookie issue. I wonder if the chocolate chip cookie monsters CHARLIE and STU also gather up the other cookies?
The BOB AND JOHN Show seemed to respect their allotted time for a change. "The Screamin Bandits" are number one in car ticket sales for our club! DAVID PASHKOW, the Corvette keeper, requested help at Little Anthony's to sell car show tickets.
We welcomed a new member General JULIUS J. PARKER.
PAT ZUMBUSCH introduced guest speaker Mari DeVries who presented a program on
"Fraud in the Workplace."
We were saddened to learn of the passing of ERNIE SMITH.
GARY HIRSH'S and DARRELL STEWART'S ticket sales teams went to the Tucson Toros games on Thursday and Friday to sell Car Show Tickets. Way to go, Gary and Darrell!! DAVID PASHKOW will deliver the 1997 Corvette Prize Car to any location that your team thinks it will help sell tickets.
That's Guy Atchley -- longtime primary anchor for KGUN 9 News shooting photos and a news story to inform the community about the Tucson Classics Car Show and the local projects that will benefit. Guy is an accomplished photographer, as you'll see when you visit his website www.azphotoguy.com. Beautiful photos!
Chief Patrol agent Victor Manjarrez addressed the Club in September. He has over 20 years of distinguished service to the U.S. Border Patrol. He provided facts about the border process, in opposition to what has been reported by the press. Chief Manjarrez directs over 3,500 employees and oversees the enforcement of 262 miles of Arizona/Mexico border.
We had a great week selling tickets.Congresswoman Gabriel Giffords, refused to boycott our Show, and bought 4 tickets.and paid CASH!!!We had our first "off-site" sale at Hi Corbett Field on Rotary Day at the Toros game on Thursday.CAM MOORE constructed and wore an A-Board advertising our Car Show. Kevin Wong came disguised as a hat salesman. DAVID PASHKOW drove our prize car, a 1997 Corvette to the game for all to see. JAY and MELINDA ZUCKER went out on the field to make a PA announcement promoting our Show and Ticket Sales.Thank you, Jay and Melinda!!
Ever wonder just how well-run the RI Foundation is? Well, not only does it have a Four Star rating from Charity Navigator, "America's premier independent charity evaluator," it recently was listed #4 in Charity Navigator's list of "10 of the Best Charities Everyone's Heard Of."
According to Charity Navigator's website (www.charitynavigator.org), these 10 charities work throughout the country and the world. They are large, comlex organizations with budgets exceeding $100 million, and at least $65 million in net assets. They became household names in part because of their exceptional financial management, no easy feat considering the scope and size of their operations. Charitable givers should feel confident that these national institutions put their donations to good use."
THANK YOU JAY & MELINDA ZUCKER for a wonderful evening of delicious hot dogs, hamburgers, beverages, variety of cookies, fellowship, lots of baseball action with a Toros' win, help in selling raffle tickets, $1.00 BEER, and best of all - hobnobbing in the AIR CONDITIONED PRESS BOX with a bird's eye view of the game action! If you missed it - you missed a GREAT EVENING!
There will be no meeting on Wednesday, September 15th. Instead, we hope you will enjoy Home Hospitality with one of our host Rotarians. Your attendance at a Home Hospitality event serves as your make up.
For last minute assignment to a host event, contact Bill Cozine. There is no charge for RCOT members, and guests are a mere $ 15.00.
Marianne E. DeVries, CPA and Principal at DeVries CPAs of Arizona, provided an August program on fraud at your business. She specializes in nonprofit accounting and auditing throughout Arizona. Pat Zumbusch introduced DeVries to our group.
President Marianne called the meeting to order at exactly 12:00 Tucson Rotary Time.First up was the invocation given by HOWARD TRACY. DAN GUARE led us in the Pledge of Allegiance and in the singing of America the Beautiful with piano accompaniment by GARY GETHMANN.Good to see you back on the ivories Gary.
After lunch, JEFF RONSTADT introduced the MANY guests and visitors.Could it be they had come to witness the new hairdo our guest speaker was sporting? One special introduction was of Ben Hawkins.Madam President pointed out that he was now a guest for the third time, the first two times he came to meet JEFF RONSTADT who never showed up.Thanks for the $100 donation Jeff.
SUZANNE LAWDER and SID HIRSH were present to celebrate their birthdays.Suzanne in her delightful way thanked JOE NEVIN for getting her into Rotary 14 years ago.Sid in his pun-ish way and celebrating his 80th birthday reminded us all what business he is in.And is there anyone in the Club that doesn't know what is located at 2934 E Broadway - 325.3110?(I take cash Sid).He also got a nice nod from our guest speaker when he reminded all of us old enough to remember of Giff Giffords' tire ads on T.V.
Our outbound Rotary Youth Exchange student Brin Wassenberg and our inbound Youth Exchange student Anlise Chiamentti were introduced.A special presentation was made by President Marianne to Chris Wassenberg and his wife Kathleen Quigley thanking them for all of their support of the Rotary Youth Exchange program.
Could any meeting be complete without the John and Bob show?And in two minutes (yeah right) we learned that 789 Car Show tickets have been sold and that the teams of CONDIT/CHAMBERS and FLOWER(no s)/ANDERSON are in first and second place respectively in selling those tickets.Bob reminded us to "make the ask" and then asked Congresswoman Giffords to buy 2 tickets.His pitch was so good, she bought 4.Good job PPB.
CAMERON MOORE brought us up to date on Home Hospitality.It's happening the week of September 15th.We'll be dark that week so be sure and sign up to attend a dinner.
KENT LAUGHBAUM told us the story behind the photo that will be auctioned at September 8th's meeting.It seems you will have the opportunity to make a donation to the Club Foundtion AND get this historical photo of F-15E Strike Eagles taking off on a run to Afghanistan right after September 11th.Kent was commander of this mission and this is a great story and picture to have for your wall.Bring big bucks September 8th!!
Next up was JIM MURPHY to make a short report on Reading Seed and show us their new video.Very impressive.Special thanks to RICK ROSE for producing this and to JIM LUBINSKI'S daughter Nicole for directing it.
Guess how long EMERY BARKER has been practicing law?If you have been reading almost any periodical published in the Old Pueblo you would know the answer is 50 years.After President Marianne recognized him, Emery pledged money to Reading Seed and the YMCA to be paid immediately and a tidy sum to be paid later based upon some future event.Sounded a bit fishy to some, so they asked to get the deal in writing.
Finally we got to the program.PAULINE HECHLER introduced Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords.Congresswoman Giffords had many kudos for the Rotary Club of Tucson and its members including congrats on the Car Show and promoting more women into leadership roles in the Club.Her presentation focused on border security and immigration.But her point was this - we in Arizona have many problems that we need to be dealing with and we aren't.We aren't because the Federal Government has failed in its responsibility to secure the borders and establish a good immigration law/policy.So instead of working on education, economic recovery, helping small business, etc our attention has been drawn to the border.She called for the rhetoric to be toned down and for us to start talking to each other to come up with solutions AND "Don't Give Up The Ship"!Hmmmm.
President Marianne asked us to remember our members who are having health challenges and then closed the meeting with a toast to "working together" (Is there a theme developing here?)
In was an intimidating luncheon with all the brass at the head table-President MARIANNE, past presidents Dr. HUGH and CHARLOTTE as well as current District 5500 Governor ERNIE and Mrs. SALLY MONTAGNE. It would make a seasoned Rotarian cower with all that power!
Nevertheless, Pres. Marianne called us to order and TOM WARNE lead us all in an invocation followed by the maestro ERNIE MINCHELLA with the pledge and, accompanied by GARY GETHMANN on the piano, led us with our opening tune. BOBBY LARSON introduced our guests who included, as mentioned, our district governor and his sweetheart. Birthdays were shared and celebrated for Dr. HUGH THOMPSON, NINA DALDRUP and MARCIA GILL (10X her age of 74 = $740 pledged to Reading Seed-are you KIDDING!? Nicely done and thank you MARCIA!)
As all great Rotary District Governors should, DG Ernie Montagne and his wife Sally led by example at our Rotary meeting last week. Ernie and Sally each bought 5 tickets to the 2010 Tucson Classics Car Show!! Thanks, Ernie and Sally…you are GREAT examples to us all.
What will you be doing on October 22-24 this year?Hopefully the answer is attending the District Conference in Sierra Vista, where plans are well underway to organize the most illuminating, exciting and entertaining 5500 event in recent memory. Registration will open up no later than the end of August.
This year's conference promises to be the highlight of the calendar with a packed agenda of inspirational guest speakers, new member inductions, informative breakout sessions, club news, entertainment, area tours, a golf tournament, and much more besides.
The theme for the event at the Windemere Hotel & Conference Center will be "Water-It's For Life", a topic very much close to the heart of District Governor Ernie Montagne and his wife Sally.
Members Billy Joe Varney and Joan McNamara continue with health challenges. Ernie Smith has been moved to hospice at the VA (cancer) - no visitors. Notes or cards from fellow Rotarians would be most appreciated both by the patients as well as their families who need our support.
Past President and Past Car Show Chair Arnie Jacobsen's father passed away suddenly last month and Mike Spencer lost his father recently as well.
In November of 2008 Gabrielle Giffords was re-elected as Congresswoman for Arizona's Eighth Congressional District. She has dedicated herself to public service as an elected official. She currently serves on the House Armed Services Committee and the Subcommittees on Air and Land Forces and Military Readiness, the House Science and Technology Committee, the House Foreign Affairs Committee and the Subcomittee on the Western Hemisphere.
The program committee has been hard at work scheduling interesting, thought provoking programs.For the coming year we hope to shake things up a bit and try to present some different speakers and programs than we may have heard in the past years.Some may be a bit edgy but, we will always endeavor to present both sides if possible.
"Be Bigger, Better and Bolder in 2010-2011" District 5500 Governor, Ernie Montagne, spoke about the measures of effectiveness for Rotary Clubs: membership, service projects, support of The Rotary Foundation, and development of leaders beyond the club. Based on these measures, Ernie said our club was highly effective.
PRESIDENT MARIANNE FREITAS called the meeting to order and introduced JOHN LEWIS to do the invocation. Next BILL COZINE led us in the pledge and beautifully sang "America the Beautiful" with GARY HIRSCH on piano. PRES. MARIANNE reminded us to fill the scholarship cups and buy raffle tickets, and then we broke for some fellowship and late arriving salads. We regrouped for introductions (made by RICK RUPKEY) which included Rotary big shots DENNIS ROBERTS from Texas (Past District Governor 2009-2010) and our current District Governor and his wife ERNIE & SALLY MONTAGNE. We had 2 Rotarians celebrating birthdays RITA MARSHALL and JERRY SULLIVAN (who also got fined).
Next the whirlwind of announcements started with ALAN SCHROPE letting us know that 2 types of people (those who have gone before and those who haven't) need to sign up for the San Carlos trip. CINDY GODWIN back from knee surgery introduced new member DICK "choosey moms choose Jiff" HAIT. He was with P&G for 33 years and has extensive experience volunteering with many organizations and will be a great addition to our club. After the intro, JOE NEVIN let us know that our own SUZANNE LAWDER had been awarded the very prestigious Goodwill Industries International Kenneth King Award for 2010. Congratulations!! After almost being fined for her new hair color, MICHELLE HUTCHINSON urged us to sign up to host Home Hospitality the week of Sept. 12-18. GARY HIRSCH explained more about how our El Tour de Tucson team would work. JAY ZUCKER invited us to come watch some Toros baseball August 19th which is also Thirsty Thursday. BOB SHAFF and JOHN LEWIS almost got the hook while explaining to us all the benefits of how easy it is to buy Tucson Classics Car Show tickets online. Special thanks to DREW VACTOR, MICHELLE HUTCHINSON and MICHAEL SCHMIDT for their help with that project.
Finally it was time for our speaker who is a familiar face. KENT LAUGHBAUM introduced ROBIN "Spidey" STODDARD who talked about Airpower, Afghanistan and Wright Flight. ROBIN started Wright Flight as a way of helping students do better in school through improving math and science skills. The touching video we saw about the program showed what a difference it has made for the students featured and who are part of the program. After ROBIN answered some questions, RICK RUPKEY announced the raffle winners.
The meeting closed with PAT LENNAN giving PRES. MARIANNE a bikini he picked up in the French Riviera. After a good laugh the meeting ended with a toast and we were all off to finish our days!
Tickets for the 2010 Tucson Classics Car Show can now be purchased ONLINE!!
Potential ticket-buyers simply go to our Car Show website at www.tucsonclassicscarshow.com, and click on the "Buy tickets Online" link on the left side of the page.
Pictures of the 1997 Corvette prize and some simple rules appear next. Then, click on the picture of the Car show ticket, and an order page appears. Complete your contact information, and enter your credit card data. Pay attention to the field: Referred by (Rotarian Name). By entering the name of a RCOT member, the member will get credit for the ticket sale for his/her team.
Then click on "Submit My Order", and a confirmation receipt will appear, suitable for printing.
Ticket stubs will automatically be prepared in the name of the purchaser (or attendee, if named), and placed in the drawing barrel the day of the show. Admission tickets will be available at the "Will Call" table the day of the show in the name of the purchaser (or attendee, if named).
RCOT members, try this out yourself....TODAY!!! Buy a few tickets on line. See how simple it is. then tell all your firends and business associates to do the same!!
TAKE US OUT TO THE BALLGAME!!!
What: TOROS vs. TIJUANA
When: Thursday, August 19th @ 7:00pm (Gates open at 6:00pm)
Where: Hi Corbett Field - Where the Action Is!
Who: All Tucson Rotary Members and Guests
Why: Excellent Baseball! Tasty Food! End of Summer Treat!
Can't Beat Fun at the Old Ball Park with Rotary Friends!
Cost of food: The Ball Park Buffet, including sodas and water is specially priced by Jay at $13.50 for Adults and $10.00 for children.
Cost of tickets: NOTHING!!! Our own Jay Zucker has generously donated all of the tickets into the game!
Another Bonus: It's Thirsty Thursday! Beers are $1.00!
COME SUPPORT JAY ZUCKER and THE TUCSON TOROS!
Sign up on Clubrunner or click the ATTEND button on the email that you've received.
Thank you,
Bobby Larson,
Committee Chair
John Lewis and Bob Shaff kicked off the Club Member ticket sales for our Club's 4th Annual Tucson Classics Car Show at our meeting on July 28th. With overwhelming enthusiasm from the 20 volunteer Team Captains, Bob and John outlined our goal of selling 20,000 tickets to this year's Car Show.
To meet this goal will take the active and creative participation of everyone in the Club.
Our Illustrious meeting was called to order by our President. PAT ZUMBUSCH gave the invocation. Pat reminded us of Harry Truman's famous quote "The Buck Stops Here". SONNY SOLOT led us in the Pledge of Allegiance and of course SONNY sang with such gusto that the entire room rang out with warm fuzzy feelings for America. GARY HIRSCH played the piano for our enjoyment. The luncheon was served a little after 12 noon.
Wright Flight, Inc., created in 1986, is named for the Wright brothers -- believing that the Wright brothers' example of setting goals and achieving them through hard work and discipline can be used as a model for today's youth. Through Wright Flight, children learn about the history of aviation, and they are exposed to many career opportunities in aviation and other technical career fields.
New member Lee Sidney Aitken has been accepted into the Rotary Club of Tucson with the classification Utilities/Electric Power. Please join us in congratulating him, and thanks to his sponsor Pat Lennan.
Join us for this week's program -- Pima County ONESTOP is a system of organizations that provide career development services for youth and adults and support to employers in recruiting, staffing and training a viable workforce. The ONESTOP conducts special outreach to low-income, dislocated worker and high-school dropout populations. While services are coordinated centrally, they are delivered through a network of more than 50 organizations ranging from community-based non-profits to governmental agencies to private technical schools
Our in-bound exchange student, JULIEN DANILL, will be heading back to Germany July 26th. While in Tucson, he has been hosted by RCOT member BOB LOGAN and wife JUDY, as well as Tucsonans, CHRIS and KATHLEEN WASSENBERG. A "good bye" potluck was held at the Wassenberg home last week, attended by RCOT members and spouses: LARRY/PATTY PETH, BOB LOGAN, TOM/JEWEL ANDREWS, VIC JACOBS, CHUCK/MARIANNE FREITAS. Stay tuned for news about our new in-bound exchange student from Brazil!
We were greeted by STAR Committee members as we arrived at the Doubletree for our weekly meeting. President MARIANNE FREITAS called the meeting to order, JIM RONSTADT gave the invocation, and JOHN LEWIS led us in the pledge and song, with GARY GETHMAN tickling the ivories. Members were in and out of the back room donating blood to the Red Cross. Some say there was a Bill Compton sighting.
Thanks to new member MICHELLE HUTCHINSON, WELLS FARGO has signed on as a major sponsor for our annual Car Show! WELLS FARGO has pledged $10,000 in addition to hosting a tent, food and beverages for specially invited VIP's and customers of Wells Fargo on the field October 16! This is a fantastic contribution and enhancement to our show. Thank you MICHELLE and WELLS FARGO!
This is your BIG CHANCE to preserve history! Buy your (or your family member's) old badge pocket which we have been told must be at least 50 years old or more! See Marianne at the Wed. 8/4 meeting for a sample of an old badge pocket, framed for you to purchase for a donation of $ 20.00. Five dollars will go toward the cost of the frame and $15.00 of your donation will go to Polio Plus -or- if you just want the badge pocket, all of whatever you wish to pay will go toward Polio Plus (minimum $10)!
About a dozen folks participated in the CPR Overview training on Saturday morning at the Red Cross office. The class taught procedures for assisting someone who is choking and some very basic CPR training. Certification in CPR requires the full course, but this class gave a taste of how to do CPR and why the 5 hour course is required. There are a number of safety concerns to consider! Participants are considering taking the full course after attending Saturday's class.
Our District Governor, ERNIE MONTAGNE, has agreed to a Group Study Exchange (GSE) with District 9100 in Western Africa to take place in the Spring of 2011. For one month, participants will travel to Togo, Ghana and the Ivory Coast to help further international understanding, goodwill and peace, and learn about how their profession is accomplished in another country.
What a bargain! Who wouldn't want to win this beautiful 1997 C-5 Corvette coupe? This is our Tucson Classics Car Show raffle car for the 2010 show, shown with 2010 Car Show Chair, Jon Wang. The drawing for the winner will be held at our annual car show October 16, 2010!
Remember, the $ 5.00 also provides admittance for one to our show. See our website for further pictures: www.tucsonclassicscarshow.com (Photo by Balfour Walker)
Prez MARIANNE FREITAS opened her second meeting punctually, and predicted it would end five to 10 minutes early, which set just the right tone. In fact, ALAN SCHROPE's minute-long-but-moving invocation added to the upbeat mood, and he would be back after lunch to introduce guests and visiting Rotarians in orderly fashion.
Would like to report that Billy Joe
is much better but that is not the fact. He is doing some PT each day but very
little. He is more alert and talking more. Really not talking but
we can understand words every so often.
He is still on the feeding tube and
not able to stand and is still sleeping a lot. He is sitting some
in a wheel chair and for longer periods of time. He does recognize
his family members and will call their name if and when he wants something,
which is not often.
He is making progress and is much
better than he was a month ago but still has a very long way to go. Keep
him in your prayers Sue is holding up as well as possible and,
fortunately for her, her five daughters have been wonderful in assisting her.
Discussions have been underway with the Doubletree to improve menu choices and the serving procedures for our lunches to provide you with the best possible meals. The Committee of experienced "food gurus" are Chair ARNIE JACOBSEN, along with members ART ALLIS, DICK KOLASA and DREW VACTOR. You should like the new menu choices and changes which will be taking place, soon - some have already been introduced. Let us know how you like them!
Don't forget to complete your committee preference and updated bio forms. If you don't have one or need to see the list of committees, see Mary Laughbaum. If you have one to hand in, give to Mary L. This is your chance to voice your preference of committee(s) and the way in which you choose to serve YOUR Club. There is something for everyone, no matter how busy you might be. Let's get 100% participation from everyone this year and have fun accomplishing great things!
Awards Chair, JONATHAN MARTIN, announced our most recent recipient to receive the Orville McPherson Award, Past President, CHARLOTTE HARRIS! This award is presented to a member who exemplifies the ideals of Rotary and is someone who consistently makes our club a special place for all of our members. Selection is made from nominations submitted by our membership. The list of things she does for our club (from small to big) is too long to publish. CONGRATS CHARLOTTE - well deserved!
At her first meeting July 7th, Marianne Freitas revealed the Secret Blue Project to our members. For weeks Irene Decker and Marianne have been plotting and working behind the scenes to replace the aged and worn old badge pockets. Irene machine embroidered every single number and they look fabulous! There is no guarantee that your badge is actually in the correct pocket number, however, it should appear somewhere nearby. Hope you enjoy!
Former member, Jo DeChalet's husband Ronald Lusteck passed away 7-7-10 after being in hospice for cancer. I am sure Jo could use the support of Rotarian friends during this difficult time.
Kathy G. Short has focused her work on global literature, literature circles, curriculum as inquiry, and collaborative learning environments for teachers and children. She is a professor in the program of Language, Reading and Culture at the University of Arizona and has worked extensively with teachers to develop curriculum that actively involves students as readers and inquirers.
IT'S NOT TOO LATE to sign up for the Blood Drive Wed. 7-21! It takes little of your time and could save a life! Bring a friend or family member to donate, too! You can donate before, during or after our regular meeting. Sign up through Club Runner or call Ginger Leavitt to help you sign up. Walk-ins are welcome on the day of the Blood Drive as well!
Arnie Jacobsen, Cindy Godwin and Joan McNamara are home from surgeries and doing well. Billy Joe has moved to a rehab (Sabino Can. Rehab, 5830 E. Pima) and is doing better. Ernie Smith is doing great!
As a trainer, workshop leader, keynote speaker, and conference presenter, Jack Harris makes presentations to people from around the world on a variety of topics aimed at helping Keep Good People Good. His unique combination of law enforcement and management experience, behavioral science background and a passion for practical solutions, allows Jack to provide results-oriented training that helps people develop skills they can apply to everyday, real-life situations.
At her first meeting, Marianne will reveal her goals for the year, report on the Montreal convention with a slide show and reveal new changes. There will be 2 new member intros as well as lots of business to catch up on after being "dark". Don't miss it!
SPACE WILL BE LIMITED! Deadline for reservations: September 17.
History will be made on September 22, 2010 when our club will have the honor of hosting the President Elect of Rotary International, Kalyan Banerjee and his wife Binota of India. This is only the second time in District 5500 history that a PE of RI has come to our district.
JOAN MCNAMARA had surgery to remove her one remaining kidney last week. She is doing remarkably well, started her first dialisis Friday and went home Saturday. She would love hearing from you! Call first if you want to visit, or give your best wishes with a card or phonecall.
WOW! What a party! Food was fabulous thanks to DANNY SCORDATO OF VIVACE, who even hosted wine and champagne for SCOTT VAUGHAN'S send off, MARIANNE FREITAS' initiation to leadership, and introduction of new Board members.
Here is Charlotte Harris being sworn in as one of several elite Assistant District Governors. She's perfect for the task. The event was June 27th at Skyline CC. Our Club was well-represented at the District 5500 Installation of 2010-2011 Governor Ernie Montagne from Rotary Club of Sierra Vista.
This
may not have been the longest meeting this year...but it was a close second!
Bob
Ernstein and Don Rollings beautifully executed the opening ceremonies with the
assistance of Gary Hirsch. Rowdy Table Captain Charlie Meaker welcomed visitors,
guests and prospective members.
Birthdays
were abundant with Cheryl House, Gordon Graham, Sonny Solot, Jan Seagondollar,
Walt Mastin, Bruce Read, Darrell Stewart, Tom Kiernan and Ken Goodman all being
pressured into age-induced philanthropy.
Charlotte
Harris and Bob Logan had the honor of bestowing Paul Harris Fellowships upon
repeat offenders Rabbi Stephanie Aaron (+3), Chris Monson (+3), Bob Ernstein
(+4), and Don Shropshire (+4). George Krauja was recognized with a Club
Sponsored Fellowship in recognition of his invaluable service to the club.
Gerry
Hallowell introduced new member Maggie Kosinski who shared a warm and humorous
story about her Rotarian Father.
Pat
Zumbusch (treasurer), Jim Lubinski (International Service) and Charlotte Harris
(Immediate Past President, Annual Report, Paul Harris, Rotary International and
small engine repair) offered up summaries of their board responsibilities.
Scott
Vaughan provided a report on his trip to Birmingham, England, to attend the 100th
Rotary International Convention. We think he probably learned something, but
from the pictures we know Margy and he had a magnificent experience enjoying
the stomping grounds and gardens of Bill Shakespeare. President Scott wished
President-Elect Marianne Freitas "Bon Voyage" as she departs for the 101st
International Convention in Montreal, Canada.
Speaking
of gardens..Pauline Hechler introduced our featured speaker, renowned Chef
Janos Wilder, who walked us through his training and how important the use of
using fresh, local products are to the fundamentals of his culinary philosophy.
He also expressed is excitement for the renewal occurring in downtown Tucson..for
him, taking the form of his new restaurant "DOWNTOWN Kitchen and Cocktails"
opening this September in the location of the old Barrio Grill.
We finish the Rotary year with 240 Active members.
This compares to 240 one year ago (best estimate).
Our Active membership includes 54 who are Attendance Exempt (Rule of 85). I
n addition, we have 4 Corporate members who have no attendance requirement.
21 New members: STEPHANIE AARON, JEFFREY ABBOTT, STANFORD CRAMER, MARCIA GILL, TOM GROH, DICK HAIT, IMAN HAKIM, MICHELLE HUTCHINSON, MAGGIE KOSINSKI, KENT LAUGHBAUM, JONATHAN MARTIN, JAMES MATHER, JAY PARKER, ELLIE PATTERSON, TONY PEDROZA, ALAN ROGERS, MIKE SCHMIDT, VICTORIA SHAW, DANIEL SPAHR, JAKE STRUBLE, YVETTE VILLAMANA.
I talked to Gloria Smith, Ernie's wife, Sunday. Ernie is back at TMC, room 691. He is being treated for exposure to Agent Orange when he was stationed in Viet Nam and has become very weak. He can not have visitors right now, but a get well card to Ernie Smith, 7739 E. Broadway Apt 195, Tucson 85710, would be welcome.
The following prospective members have been accepted according to club policies as members of the Rotary Club of Tucson. They will be introduced to the club at a meeting in the near future.
Richard "Dick" Hait Classification:Consumer Products: Corporate Affairs Sponsor: Cindy Godwin
Julius "Jay" Parker, Jr.
Classification: Military: Retired
Sponsor: Jake Struble
Antonio "Tony" Pedroza
Classification: Environmental Services: Recycling and Waste Services
Sponsor: Ken Flower
President SCOTT VAUGHAN with Margy, first lady of the Rotary Club of Tucson, by his side and a huge smile, opened our meeting as his last official presidential duty for our club.
Attention, Rotarians! A free class for our club members: "CPR Made Simple One-Hour Training Class" at the Red Cross facility, 2916 E. Broadway, on Saturday, July 17th and 9:00am. Sign up online through the club website or contact Don Rollings to register. For course content questions, contact Richard White. Class size is limited, so please act quickly. There will be no charge for the training session!
Madelaine "Maggie" Kosinski, following a family tradition, is one of our new members. Since her childhood days in Venezuela and the Bahamas, she learned the importance of Rotary by observing her father practice "Service before Self" for over 40 years.
Maggie looks forward to being actively engaged in the Rotary Club of Tucson. She is fluent in Spanish and serves throughout our community in a variety of roles. She is a Trustee of the Tucson Symphony Orchestra Society, and has made numerous medical mission trips for Southwest Medical Aid to Mexico and Peru. Maggie's enthusiasm and joy for life will be a great asset to the club.
Maggie was formally introduced at the June 16th lunch meeting by her sponsor, Gerry Hallowell.
For the next three years, our signature fund-raising event will have a title sponsor -- contributing a total of $45,000 to Rotary Club of Tucson Foundation in
support of Reading Seed and other community charities in Tucson.
At our meeting last Wednesday, Chef
Janos Wilder shared his vision for Tucson and his passion for incorporating regional products into his menus. He began cooking as a teenager in a local pizza parlor and continued
cooking throughout high school and college fueled equally by an interest in
food and the practical need to find a job.Â
Conversation between guys and gals
at our table circulated around UA's success in the NCAA championship softball
games. UA made a great run at the crown,
but UCLA gained advantage on a number of plays to win.
Raffle of notebook covers, electric
sauce pans and packages of silverware (??? Doubletree??) brought in the goodly
sum of over $400 to our Rotary Club of Tucson Foundation that GARY GETHMAN, JON
WANG, RICHARD BRATT and JIM LUBINSKI told us about. LARRY ADAMSON started that project 35 years
ago.GARY G is in the process of turning
the Foundation leadership over to JON W.
Birthday kids totaled 65 years of
Rotary life, although none of them hardly look that old! We honored BOB DORSON,
PAT ZUMBUSCH, BOB WEBB, BEN STOREK, DENNIS DRISCOLL and CHARLIE O'DOWD whose
Rotary lineage dates back to his Great Grandfather - Great Scot!! All were
serenaded by the Rowdy Table Marching and Kazoo Symphonic Elite.
CHARLIE also introduced new member
(shouted out???) MAGGIE KOSINSKI who represents the grand Tucson Symphony.
End-of-Rotary-year accolades to committee chairmen came from Board Members RITA
MARSHALL, club administration and meeting services, MARY MARTIN, membership and
PAULINE HECHLER, club secretary.
It must be noted that President
SCOTT received a standing ovation for his summary of our recent unfortunate
escapade with an executive director. Some
safeguards have been added to help prevent similar havoc in the future. Thanks for handling the ticklish situation so
well, SCOTT. Pres SV opened and closed the meeting in a timely manner. PAT Z's historical invocation was most
interesting. Without piano accompaniment
DAN GUARE did a masterful job leading "America the Beautiful" Acapulco-style.
Chris O'Dell worked as an assistant and tour manager for some of the most influential musicians in recent History. She was there when the Beatles recorded The White Album, Abbey Road, and "Let It Be. She sang on the chorus of Hey Jude. She was the Rock and Roll's first female tour manager travelling with The Rolling Stones, Bob Dylan, Linda Ronstadt, Phil Collins, Fleetwood Mac, Queen and more.
A big thank you to Rotarians who made donations to Goodwill and the Norma Peale Memorial Library. You all have made a difference in our community. Check out the car load of books!
The Vocational Service and Career Development Committee requests your
support! Goodwill Industries and UPH will each have a truck in the
parking lot of the Doubletree Hotel at 11:15 am on Wednesday, June 9.Â
Please bring all of your "gently used" items. Also, please bring books, magazines and tapes for the Norma Peal
Memorial Book Drive! These will benefit UMC / UPH patients as they wait
for treatment.
At the home of Bruce and Sandy Tunze, we learned that they are very well informed wine enthusiasts. They conducted a blind tasting of three excellent Pinot Noirs. We each guessed which wine was which after extensive instruction on Pinot characteristics. Here is the winner, with committee chair, Angela Baurley.
I walked in the door this morning and Billy Joe looked at me and clearly said " it's about time you showed up" I'm not sure he knew it was me but it was someone he should have known. He is more alert since my last report but doesn't make sense most of the time. He is eating some solid food so that is progress. All in all, he is improving although it is very slow.
Our meeting began with a thoughtful greeting and invocation by
John Lewis, followed by the pledge and song by Jim Wood accompanied by Gary
Hirsch on piano.
Dennis Driscoll introduced guests and visiting Rotarians. The birthday bunch included Bob Webb, Burt
Strug, Pete Herschberger, Gary Hirsch (60!), and Frank Zunno (Happy 87th
Birthday!).And...anniversaries...Happy
41st anniversary Drew and Candy Vactor!Sid
Hirsh introduced new member Stanford Cramer.Stanford, retired from the automotive business, was welcomed by the group.Stanford was born in Pennslyvania.He has been married for 34 years, is a
licensed pilot, and according to Sid, loves Hirsh's shoes!
Board reports were presented by Ken Light and Cindy Godwin.Jon Wang reported on the CAR SHOW and shared
the big news that Arnie Jacobs and Lucky Wishbone will be our title sponsor
with a commitment of 3 years!Pat Lennan
talked with Schuy Lininger who had attended his 70 year High School reunion.
Mark Mistler introduced our program speakers, fellow Rotarian Bob
Logan, and Dennis Bene, Salpointe High School's Head Football Coach. They presented an inspiring program -
Salpointe's Games for a Greater Good- whose purpose is to raise awareness and motivate
others to help those in our community who are suffering from adversity.Bob and Dennis outlined and discussed the
program and its four areas of concentration and involvement:Breast Cancer Awareness, Community Food Bank,
Juvenile Diabetes, and the Special Olympics.The meeting was adjourned by President Scott.
"Hot off the Presses" Polio information:
Nigeria has reported only 3 cases of polio so far this year, compared to 276 at same time last year! India is reporting about 1/3 of the cases this year as they had last year! Overall, there are 50% fewer cases this year than at the same time last year--the new Strategic Plan for polio eradication is working! There are only 52 cases in the polio endemic countries this year compared to 268 at the same time last year.
The world's first service club, the Rotary Club of Chicago, was formed on 23 February 1905 by Paul P. Harris, an attorney who wished to capture in a professional club the same friendly spirit he had felt in the small towns of his youth. The Rotary name derived from the early practice of rotating meetings among members' offices.
Big raffle THIS WEEK! Charlotte has been protecting dozens of extraordinary Rotary items in her car -- a situation she wishes to correct. Her idea is a great one. Just wait until you see the list of prizes for June 9th. You will buy many many tickets.
As you know I will be leaving for an extended period and thus wll miss the "Change of Administration Party". As an update, I learned this past weekend that our middle daughter (age 50) has been diagnosed with a brain tumor. We are therefore leaving immediately to be wiith her when she has surgery on May 26. She is very positive.
Our fellow Rotarian, Bob Logan, and Dennis Bene, Salpointe's Head Football Coach, presented the school's "Games for the Greater Good" program -- an excellent and inspiring presentation and surprise video.
SERGEANT AT ARMS DAVE GALLAHER issued some quick fines to CHRIS "Dancing with the Stars" EDWARDS and BURT "I Have no Money Left after the
Wedding" STRUG.
Imagine Greater Tucson is a collaborative process that is being formed to guide the development of a broadly and publicly supported strategy for our future - a vision to enhance/promote Southern Arizona's environment, economic strength, and quality of life for generations to come.
Show your pride in the Rotary Club of Tucson by sporting a custom pin from original artwork. Just $5.00 each - what a deal! Where can you find one? At the next lunch meeting - you may purchase your pin from the check-in desk - or stop by the Rotary Club of Tucson office. Buy several as gifts for prospective members, family, and friends!
At the stroke
of 12 PRESIDENT SCOTT VAUGHAN called the meeting to order.
With the
meeting under way KEN LIGHT gave us an inspiring story of the ability for all
of us to step up and overcome adversity.
Leading us
all in the pledge was GORDAN SHAW, but he was sidetracked and almost forgot what song we
were to sing, then pulled off an ACAPULCO version of AMERICA.
The
introduction of our guests and visitors was handled this week by BRUCE TUNZE. We
had lots of guests but no visiting Rotarians. BRUCE was granted an extra minute
to remind us of the upcoming ROTARY WINE FELLOWSHIP BLIND TASTING on May 27th
but you must RSVP and pay by May 21st to guarantee your space.
Next up was CHARLIE
O'DOWD with the honor of introducing the clubs newest member MICHELLE HUTCHINSON
of the"WEALTH MANAGEMENT DIVISION of WELLS FARGO". With Michelle's introduction
she lowers the average age of the club to 65. CHARLIE also had the pleasure of
passing out a plethora of Blue Badges to our newest batch of STAR GRADUATES.
This week's
birthday Rotarians were KEN TUCKER (also the second half of today's program), PAT
LENNAN with a bad joke worthy of a FINE, TOM BROWNING and his 44 and ½YEARS of PERFECT ATTENDANCE and his not so
perfect attendance, CHUCK SAWYER. A special Wedding Anniversary wish was bestowed
upon RICHARD BRATT for his 17 YEARS of WEDDED BLISS.
The next order of business up was JIM MURPHY with
a READING SEED update. His guests included ELIZABETH CAMPBELL Director of
Reading Seed and a Rotary Scholarship recipient and Centennial Award Winner at
the U of A and, most notably Reading Seed Mentor at Roskruge Elementary, ANDREW
CARRASCO.
Now running
behind schedule, the meeting proceeded with JOE NEVIN and a special award to MARY
CASTANEDA, a TRVFA Scholarship Recipient. Next on JOE'S agenda was a Tag Team with
the Honorable Judge ANNE SEGAL to remind us of the upcoming combined closet cleaning
days and NORMA PEAL BOOK DRIVE on June 2nd and 9th.
A couple of
quick announcements by JONATHAN MARTIN seeking nominations for the ORVILLE
MCPHEARSON AWARD, and CHUCK SAWYER again with a reminder of the CAR SHOW meeting
today.
Finally on to
our program, JIM RUBOYIANES introduced DEBBIE RICH of the SAGUARO GIRL SCOUT
COUNCIL and the club's own KEN TUCKER of the BOY SCOUTS of AMERICA'S CATALINA
COUNCIL. Both brought us up to speed on the good works scouting does and how it
helps to make our youth better people.
Debbie Rich -- CEO of the Sahuaro Girl Scout Council serves more than 14,000 girls and has more than 2500 adult volunteers in Southern Arizona. And our own Ken Tucker heads up the Catalina Council of the Boy Scouts of America. Together they presented the club with a welcome update on scouting activities in the area. Our club is proud to support all aspects of scouting.
"CINCO DE MAYO"
The meeting started at noon sharp at the Doubletree with John Lewis' Prayer,
followed by Dan Guare and Gary Hirsch (piano) singing "America." Jeff Ronstadt
introduced Guests.
"El Tour de Tucson & Polio Plus"
Mike Harris and Gary Hirsch review the growing relationship between El Tour & Rotary International-Polio Plus & Rotary clubs in our district. The EL TOUR DE TUCSON booth was on display before it goes off to the RI convention in Montreal.
The Herzfeld's had not ONE, but TWO Mystery Editors in their midst. Be sure to join in the fun next fall if you missed out on Home Hospitality!
Here's the first report:
The email that welcomed us to Carol and Jim Herzfeld's house for home hospitality stated that being invited here was equivalent to winning the lottery, and it was
So Margy and I wanted a dog, and we told Alan Schrope of Valley Animal Hospital, who told me "we constantly have animals who are great pets looking for a good home." Within days Alan sent us a picture of a dog -- but not this one.
WOW! 135+ Rotarians attended the 12 Home Hospitality gatherings ranging from 5-26 at each gathering. Some members hosted and attended Home Hospitalities that included many newbies and oldbies. The food was GREAT, but our real purpose is to meet and get to know each other.
New University of Arizona AD has arrived -- Greg Byrne -- addressed us in a community-wide Rotary event. It's clear that Greg enjoys getting his message out -- and it's a great message.
Judge Jack Peyton -- Domestic Violence In Pima County Courts. Payton, a 1978 graduate of Catholic University of America, Washington D.C., graduating first in his class, worked in the criminal division of the US Department of Justice and then entered private practice.
President SCOTT VAUGHN called us to order and introduced JACK PARRIS, who also served as official photographer, to give the invocation. SONNY SOLOT, accompanied by GARY HIRSCH on piano, led us in the pledge and a heartfelt rendition of America the Beautiful" - we always sound better with SONNY directing us. New member RICK RUPKEY introduced visiting Rotarians and guests.
Birthdays were celebrated by CHRIS EDWARDS, who paid not one but two $200 fines; GIB RAYMOND; YVETTE VILLAMANA, who shared how fellow Rotarian JACK MAREK celebrated her 30th birthday 31 years ago (so how old is she?); JAKE STRUBLE; JOHN LEWIS; TOM ANDREWS; and JAY ZUCKER.
Assistant District Governor LIZ COHN honored our club's efforts to raise money for Polio Plus, presenting a certificate of appreciation from Rotary International.
BOB LOGAN and CHARLOTTE HARRIS presented the latest Paul Harris Fellows: JOHN ADKINS, JB TOLAND, Shirley Duncan from her husband CLARKE DUNCAN, Trisha Raymond from her husband GIB RAYMOND, Eileen Paulus from her husband HARRY PAULUS, Ambre Cole from her husband ED COLE, and BRIAN GOLDSTEIN.
BILL COZINE thanked the 11 hosts and 130 Rotarians and guests who have signed up for Home Hospitality.
WALT ROBERSON introduced the Voice of the Wildcats, Brian Jeffries, who has been announcing Arizona games since 1987. BOB LOGAN pointed out that Brian got his start announcing Salpointe games.
President SCOTT announced that there is no meeting April 21 due to HH and the meeting on April 28 is at the Jewish Community Center.
PRESIDENT SCOTT VAUGHAN opened the meeting, introducing Club Secretary PAULINE HECHLER to give the invocation. MARSHALL DENNINGTON led the pledge and song. GARY HIRSCH ably accompanied him on the very out-of-tune piano.
As the play-by-play voice of University of Arizona football, basketball and baseball, Brian has traveled the country and for that matter the world covering UA athletics. Since 1986 the Wildcats have played various sports in 37 states, the District of Columbia and Japan. Brian has been there for all of them from National Championships in baseball and basketball to bowl games to great games from coast-to-coast.
Team Rotary! What a great group of racers! Angela Baurley coordinated all of us who agreed to be coordinated. She is seen here coordinating Patty Peth. We helped to raise almost $1 million for cancer research and services.
You can no longer go to the zoo with out using the JAMES F. RONSTADT ENTRY PLAZA -- it was so dedicated at a celebration on April 3rd. Jim was Tucson Parks and Recreation Director from 1978 to 1998. A 29-year member, Rotary Club of Tucson -- Congratulations Jim!
Reading Seed Honored its Founders, as well as its 1200 reading coaches on March 31st at the Doubletree. About 300 in attendance learned of our Club's committment which began with Rotary's Centennial in 2005.
I just wanted to say "Hi" and let you know that I miss everyone at RCOT. I hope I can find some events to attend on weekends when I am home. I am in the process of joining the El Paso rotary club. I am looking forward to making new friends and participating in service projects. I try to keep up with RCOT though the Tucsotarian and keep in contact with several Rotarians on a regular basis. See you soon !
Graeme Hughes sells Southern Arizona as a convention destination. How important is that? We welcomed the Director of Convention Sales, Metropolitan Tucson Convention and Visitors' Bureau (MTCVB).
Kirk Saunders is a retired and recovering attorney who has focused his professional career on real estate investment and finance since 1987. He was graduated by the University of Arizona College of Law, Tucson, Arizona and Pomona College, Claremont, California.
On Sat, March 20, five of your intrepid Rotarians and one Scholarship Student once again conquered Picacho Peak. Kent Laughbaum, Chuck Sawyer, Rich Flynn, Tom Andrews and Jeff Heath were joined by UofA Rotarian Scholarship recipient Jack Simmons in making the ascension. The weather was clear and bright, the mountain was green, and there were an incredible amount of yellow poppies growing on the slopes as we went up the trail.
Brenda Goldsmith,Executive Director of El Rio Health Center Foundation, which began in 1991 to raise philanthropic support for El Rio Community Health Center - now helping 74,000 people in our community. Brenda presented a very informative program along with board chair, Kirk Saunders.
Gary had quadruple bypass surgery on March 20. Fortunately, Gary did not have a heart attack, but a problem was detected by his doctor before any damage was done. Gary describes his recovery as record-breaking.
George Hanson, Tucson Symphony Music Director and Conductor, in his 14th season as TSO's multi-talented music director and passionate spokesman, has helped establish the profile of the Tucson Symphony Orchestra as the flagship organization in Tucson's cultural life.
"I had so much fun! I got my face painted, and there was so many things to do! I got a free dictionary at the Rotary booth, and I gave $2 so someone else will get one too." Gracie Vaughan-Sacks Honors Kindergarten Math
Thank You Rotary for Supporting the Festival of Books
They were seen hob-nobbing together in Mesa -- Our President-Elect and OUR PRESIDENT-ELECT -- at the Presidents-Elect Training Seminar. Marianne is seen here telling Rotary International President-Elect Ray Klinginsmith how it is.
Marianne Freitas Compares Notes with RI President-Elect
Marianne Freitas, Joni Condit, Charlotte Harris and Pauline Hechler made the trek to Mesa for the Presidents-Elect Training Seminar, affectionately knows as PETS. The training was held over three days the first weekend in March.
The Object of Rotary is to encourage and foster the ideal of service as a basis of worthy enterprise and, in particular, to encourage and foster:
FIRST. The development of acquaintance as an opportunity for service;
SECOND. High ethical standards in business and professions, the recognition of the worthiness of all useful occupations, and the dignifying of each Rotarian's occupation as an opportunity to serve society;
THIRD. The application of the ideal of service in each Rotarian's personal, business, and community life;
FOURTH. The advancement of international understanding, goodwill, and peace through a world fellowship of business and professional persons united in the ideal of service.
Before a club or an organization begins a strategic planning process it needs to have a clear VISION of where they want to be and who they want to be in the future. More than 60 Rotary Districts internationally, including District 5500, now have trained facilitators to lead a group of Rotarians from individual clubs in a vision facilitation process resulting in operational continuity, consistency, and consensus.
Mary Laughbaum Rotary Club director
Mary Laughbaum has been named executive director of the Rotary Club of Tucson. Laughbaum previously managed the Southern Arizona office of Gov. Jan Brewer. Prior to that, as wife of former Davis-Monthan Air Force Base and 355th Fighter Wing commander Col. Kent Laughbaum, she provided leadership and support to spouses of airmen and represented the base to local leadership. Laughbaum has a bachelor's degree in accounting from Texas A & M University.
Seen in the Arizona Daily Star -- March 14, 2010...
Long time member Jeff Bloom was put to rest last week. Many club members attended services Friday and a reception to celebrate Jeff's life at the Bloom home on the weekend. Don Rollings will say a few words at our Wednesday meeting.
Jeff Bloom's Passing -- great loss to the Rotary Family
Arizona Town Hall Calls for Bold Action to Solve the State's Fiscal Crisis -- Our March 3rd meeting, discussed government revenue in Arizona. It was a joint meeting of the Rotary Clubs of Tucson and Casas Adobes.
Congratulations to Casas Adobes Rotary for securing Polio Plus as one of El Tour's favored charities. Our Club's Foundation has received a $390 check resulting from our Club members participation in the annual bike event. Several other local clubs participated. Community wide Rotary support is sure to grow.
Rotary Support of El Tour de Tucson nets big $$ for Polio Eradication
Police Chief Roberto A. Villasenor oversees the second largest police department in the State with nearly 1,500 members. He addressed our Club on February 24th. He was born and raised in Tucson, Arizona. The Tucson Police Department has been recognized nationally as a leader in innovative law enforcement technology and community policing.
Helping children learn to read so they can read to learn. That's the Reading Seed Childrens Literacy Program -- Major underwriting provided by the Rotary Club of Tucson.
first tuesday at McMahon's Steakhouse... 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM. Fee: $5.00. First Tuesday is all about networking, business building and exchanging information. First Tuesday is all about meeting new friends and seeing old friends. First Tuesday is all about learning more about Rotary, meeting other Rotarians and changing the world.
How about recognizing Drew for fixing/clearing the virus and re-loading all the software on the club laptop? The laptop was abosolutely dead. He stepped right in and volunteered to fix it. I know it took hours and saved the club some money.
Dr. Paul Cinalli, (Medical & Healthcare-Optometry), Alvernon Optical, has dramatically improved my vision for the rest of my life -- discovering and addressing a double image issue (duh, two eyes, dude). Bring on the 3-D movies!
Gary Scheer (Retailing-Optical Goods), Alvernon Optical, manufactured the new lenses so they strectched the new Gucci frames to "fit your nose like a glove". I am very satisfied.
Other rotarians I am proud to do business with include Jeff Bloom, Joni Condit, Dr Ed Cole, Irene Decker, Danny Scordato, Chris Edwards, George Fangman, Susan Franano, Bill Harlow, Shelby Hawkins, Sid Hirsh, Jim Lubinski, Rita Mardshall, Ralph Phillips, Chuck sawyer, Jerry Sullivan, Dr Jon Wang (ouch), and Jay Zucker. I'm just getting started.
Dear Friends & Family:
I would like to take a few minutes of your time to give you a Mount Lemmon update. Please indulge me as this is a concerted effort to tell a story once rather than a hundred times and to memorialize an experience for my children and grandchildren. As many of our dear friends know, Susan and I were raised in the Northeast. We loved the changing of seasons and looked forward to the challenges and excitement that snow and snow storms brought us each year. I attended a military college in Vermont where your nostrils literally froze when we stood at the 6:00 AM parade ground revelry every morning between December thru February. I also lived in the "snow belt" of update New York for years and was in the Army in Germany where Alps, skiing, cold winters and inclement weather is the norm.
"Forging Frontiers In Rotary" Inside the Thinking of Rotary's Leadership. A Rotarian since 1986, Phil is a member of Rotary Club of Tucson Sunrise. He was President of ROTARY CLUB OF TUCSON 1n 1994, district 5500 governor 1999-2000, and has served as ROTARY INTERNATIONAL DIRECTOR, Zones 25-26, 2008-2010.
Welcome back Phil... and thank you for your service to humanity though Rotary.
Great Rotary Programs -- International Director Phil Silvers
The Rotary Hike on Saturday, Feb 20th will be an "Everyman's Hike"... beautiful scenery, very little elevation change, and a ride back to the starting point! We will be hiking the well-known and widely loved Cactus Forest Trail in Saguaro National Park East.
Our first New Member Mixer at Pizzeria Vivace was held February 17th and was a Smash Hit, Outta the Park, 12 on the 10 scale...In a word, it WORKED. Dan Scordato rolled out the red carpet indeed.
Welcome to the JCC! -- Tucson Jewish Community Center, 3800 E. River Road.
This beautifully landscaped campus includes a full fitness center, tennis courts, pool, children's splash park and basketball and racquetball courts providing wellness and health opportunities as well as daily activities to enrich the mind.
Join us for our next Rotary Wine Event on Thursday, March 25th from 5pm-7pm at McMahon's Prime Steak House in the Piano Bar. We'll be traveling to the Land Down Under and tasting a selection of four Australian wines. Appetizers will be served. The cost will be ~$20 per person, gratuity is encouraged. A big thanks goes to Chris Reaney for setting this up for us!
Please RSVP to Angela Baurley by Monday, March 22nd. See you there!
This week's meeting will feature Richard Elias from the Pima County Board of Supervisors. He will be speaking about the "State of the County".
Our menu for this week features baked salmon with a lemon dill sauce, rice pilaf and fresh vegetables. If you would like a vegetarian option of a veggie wrap or fresh fruit plate, please contact Stacey at 623-2281 or by emailing rotary@tucsonrotary.org.
The Rotary Foundation has established the Haiti Earthquake Relief Fund for U.S. Rotarians who want to donate toward recovery efforts after a powerful earthquake rocked Haiti on 12 January. Our club members have already begun showing their generosity.
All of you Rotarians are such special people. It truly comforts me to know such wonderful people are here with Jeff when I am working. Dear Don, Charlotte & Hugh…..Jeff & I want to thank all of you for creating the Buddy System that has provided Jeff with such wonderful and compassionate care from all his fellow Rotarians.
The Rotary family is saddened to learn of Blake's death at age 88 from complications of cancer. Longtime local community volunteer, WWII veteran, former Southwest Gas Executve... and 31-year member of our Club. Blake had many close friends here and was widely loved and respected for his selfless service to local causes.
This meeting featured Majorie Fisher Cunnigham, whose topic was: "Presidio Trail: A Walk Through History." Marjorie is a Board member for the Tucson Presidio Trust for Historic Preservation.
Rotary is back for the first Wednesday of the new year! We return to our favorite Doubletree Hotel to hear Steve Lynn speak about "First Things First". Steve represents the Arizona Early Childhood Development & Health Board.
This week's menu features oven roasted pork loin with apricot peppercorn sauce, mashed potatoes, vegetables & dinner rolls. Lite options include either a veggie wrap or a fruit & cottage cheese plate. If you'd like a lite option, please contact Stacey at the office as soon as possible.
New member: Victoria Shaw Occupation:RN, Clinical Educator Classification: Medical & Health: Nursing Sponsor: Irene Decker
New member: Jeffrey Owen Occupation: Clinical Neurophysiologist, Sentinent Medical Systems Classification: Medical & Health: Neurophysiology Sponsor: Cliff Bowman
These members were published for the allotted 7 day period without written objection and have become our newest members! Welcome!
A Big Rotary Thank You to the 112 Club members, their family and friends who Rang The Bells for the Salvation Army on Saturday, December 12, 2009. Our Club collected $6,709 from our 14 locations across the city.
Salvation Army Belling Ringing Project - 2009 Results
Our Rotary Relay Teams in the December 13, 2009 Tucson
Marathon were fantastic considering the participants had to fight fierce head
winds, bitter cold and, at the finish, some rain.
Our Club's last meeting of 2009 featured a live music performance by clarinet group the Desert Aires. The group tuned their clarinets to holiday favorites and sounds of the season.
Holiday Celebration features the DESERT AIRES December 23rd
Jack returned with the food from the RCOT food drive with the following news: "We received 98 pounds of food today from the Rotary Club of Tucson." That's a very nice thing, but get ready for the big news: $4,228 was donated in cash and checks, plus a matching gift due from Merrill Lynch for $1,000, making for a total in monetary contributions of $5,228!!!
All our members are invited, Monday December 21, 11:00 AM at heritage park at Davis Monthan AFB. RSVP to Cliff by club Runner e-mail or at 228 4724. Be sure to leave your first and last name to be included on the list at the DM gate.
Your State Tax Credit contribution to TRVFA makes an impact on the working poor in our community. Married couples filing jointly can receive up to $400 in tax credits. Please consider your contribution this year. Forms are available on the back table or contribute online at www.trvfa.org. Thank you.
This Rotary meeting featured part two of the Rosemont Copper debate. Rod Pace, President of Rosemont Copper, was the speaker. Rod has worked in the mining industry for approximately 30 years. The presentation was an update of the project, highlighting project economic impacts, latest technology used, along with sustainable practices being incorporated to make the Rosemont Copper Project a model mine of the future.
Our menu for this week is: House salad, baked salmon with lemon dill sauce, rice pilaf, and
seasonal vegetables. If you would
like the lite option of a roasted vegetable strudel or a fruit &
cottage cheese plate, please let Stacey know via email or phone call
right away.
On December 4 our Rotary club held a book drive to fill the bookshelves built at UPH under the guidance of Norma Peal. Club members turned out in force and the shelves are now once again full. Following is a note from Kim Rogan who headed up the project for UPH.
Brigadier General Gordon B Cauble, US Army Retired, a 13 year member of our club passed away on December 3rd. Gordon continued to be active in the many aspects of Rotary Club of Tucson and will be missed by his many friends here.
Norma's battle with complications from a malignant brain tumor ended Saturday morning. Norma joined our Club on August 31, 2007, and actively participated in many of our Club's activities. Most recently, Norma sponsored book drives to stock the patient libraries at University Physicians Hospital.
Mei Lin Gonzales, recipient of a Rotary Vocational Fund of Arizona grant who is pursuing her nursing degree at Pima Community College, is pictured with Dan Scordato, co-chair of our TRVFA committee.
Woody Burr has passed away. He leaves behind a wonderful family and a legacy of service to humanity through Rotary. Tucson High and U of A graduate. Degrees in biology and architecture. Together Woody and his wife Kathy ran a small and very successful architectural firm which engaged in residential and commercial architecture. Their son Buddy (16) has attended Rotary last week with his dad. . Woody loved our Club and would do anything that he could to help Club members. He was a past board member and served on several committees including Strategic Planning and most recently, he served admirably as the Chairman of the Sick and Visitation Committee. Sherwood "Woody" Burr was a committed family member and friend, who served our community well. His loyalty and spirit will never be forgotten. Woody left us much to be thankful for.
San Miguel High School President Leslie Schultz-Crist provided an overview of the school's goals and curriculum. The high school has a phenomenal graduation rate and through work-study internship programs, prepares students for life after graduation.
Dr. Jeff Lewis, the leader of the Jeff Lewis Quartet, and
volunteer CEO of the Tucson Jazz Society, presented a brief history and overview of the the TJS, along with samples of music and photos for all to enjoy. Dr. Jeff has single-handedly saved the Tucson Jazz
Society (TJS) from extinction during a time of financial perils and economic
slow-down.
Everything you bring supports the mission of Goodwill Industries of Southern Arizona. The truck will be ready in fromt of the Bonzai-Boojum Room, our meeting site, at 11:15AM. Goodwill leadership will provide smiles, receipts, hugs and handshakes.
We return to our Doubletree stomping grounds this week with featured speaker Don Diamond. Don is the chairman of Diamond Ventures, Inc. His business interests include real estate related investments and development projects in the Southwestern United States and Mexico.
FIRST TUESDAY - a monthly project of Pantano Rotary - now involves all clubs in Tucson. Fellowship and for members and potential new members. E-mail jerry@jerryheintze.com to make your reservation. $5 per person. See you there.
The Mini-Time Machine Museum of Miniatures, a 15,560 square foot, state-of-the-art museum displaying an entertaining and interactive array of antique and contemporary miniatures as well as enchanting artifacts and is the only museum dedicated to miniatures in the Southwest. It's New. It's Magic!...and NINA DALDRUP will present it to us at our wednesday Meeting.
For over 45 years Big Brothers Big Sisters has served thousands of
children in the Tucson community through one on one youth mentoring.
This achievement would not be possible without the vision and
dedication of one man, Dr. Hugh C. Thompson Jr. (Born January 3, 1906,
died December 7, 1992.)
Show Car exhibitors delighted with personal attention received from Rotarian Hosts and with high level of organization of venue. Vehicles exhibited - 420 registered plus 9 specialty vehicles on the perimeter of the beautiful grass field venue -- and NO DUST.(Mark Irvin & Richard Bratt shown risking their lives for a good cause).
IT'S FUN! Clubrunner Training for ALL RCOT members November 18th. Cindy Godwin, will be demonstrating "Basic Clubrunner" in the regular meeting room before the luncheon meeting. These are short sessions, 10- 12 minutes each held at 11AM, 11:15 and 11:30. This is open to ALL Members!
Who would like to be a part of the new RCOT Bike Committee? -- Periodically meet to enjoy fellowship, exercise, and good health in the secluded safety of the Rillito River Walk/Ride path.  Fun?   Whaaddaa ya think?
John P. Lewis, president/CEO of Southern Arizona Community Bank, has been selected from more than 200 community bankers nationwide to join the FDIC's new 14-member Advisory Committee on Community Banking. "I am honored to serve on this new advisory committee," said Lewis, a 43-year southern Arizona banker.
"Rotary gives you so much power to do good things" -- Gard's words after being honored at a special meeting at his residence on September 29, 2009. The occasion was celebrated by Gard's wife Marcia, daughter Margo, and her husband Jerry.
George Gadsby, President of the San Carlos, Mexico Rotary Club, shared some photos and a heartfelt message with Past President, Charlotte Harris. We look forward to seeing you in 2009. We want to really show our appreciation for your club's support during these trying times."
Our next GREAT raffle will be happening this Wednesday, October 7th!
We've got LOADS of great prizes so be sure to grab PLENTY of tickets at
Rotary! Take a look at these great prizes!
MARSHA HIRSH'S paintings are on exhibit at the ArizonaCancerCenter until the end of November. 15 of Marsha's painitings are featured. Sid's very proud of his wife's artistic endeavors.
On September 2, Hurricane Jimena brought gale-force winds and torrential rain to San Carlos, Sonora, Mexico, causing power outages and driving an estimated 90,000 people in the area from their homes and businesses.
The Fall Rotary Home Hospitality Event is now completed. We thank all of those
who worked so hard to make it a success. This year we had 145 Guests that signed up to attend and 9 generous Hosts who agreed to party on.
Charlotte Harris has established contact with rotary Club of san Carlos and begun to discuss new and urgent needs that could affect our December Service trip to the area.
Matt Blair loves San Carlos, Mexico. Matt is Tournament Director of the 5th Annual Cantina Cup fishing tournament, October 9-11. Proceeds from the tourney benefit needy projects in the San Carlos area, and there are many.
Club Leadership requires a level of engagement at the District level. These events provide Rotary Leadership education that leads to stronger clubs, more effective service projects, and great fellowship. Looking to grow your leadership role in our club? Consider some of the upcoming district events...
RED BADGE Rotarians are our newest members. They are engaged in a six month program of learning about Rotary and our Club -- from service projects to policies; committee structure to history.
UA Basketball Coach wows the croud in a community-wide Rotary event. Miller was appointed in April to take over the reins of the University of Arizona's heralded men's basketball program. Miller, 40, completed five seasons as head coach at Xavier in 2008-09 with his fourth consecutive 20-victory season and fourth consecutive NCAA Tournament appearance.
It's no accident that RAFFLE PRIZES at our meetings are more valuable and more plentiful than ever. The Raffle Committee is lining up even more donors to help increase member participation -- and ultimatly hold down Club dues.
THE FUTURE OF ROTARY IS IN YOUR HANDS was the message from Steve Dimuzio, District 5500 Governor. Steve brings a strong message of leadership and service.
"As a native of southern Sudan and one of the lucky few who has achieved his lifelong dream of an education, I have been inspired to return the opportunity to those not so fortunate as I."
Abraham Deng Ater
54 of us have signed up so far. Join us for a great weekend in San Carlos Mexico. RCOT and San Carlos Rotary Clubs combine in their nineteenth year, celebrating Christmas with the children! We will be going down on Friday December 4th, returnung on Monday -- about 50 of us on the famous Rotary Party Bus -- Rotarian's, spouses and guests.
Representatives from three different generations share their common interest in serving our community with a focus on education. Past president, Charlotte Harris, and her granddaughter and new Paul Harris Fellow recipient, Rachel Bowman, visit with Miss Arizona, Savanna Troupe, following the July 22nd meeting.
Elizabeth brings more than 20 years experience in marketing, fund raising and public relations to Reading Seed, as well as an extensive background in non-profit management. MEET ELIZABETH AT THIS WEDNESDAY'S MEETING.
Lsst month, in its formative meeting, 13 members assesed the needs for support Rotarians might provide the to the military. Cliff Bowman provided an overview of military populations currently underserved.
Savanna Troupe, Miss Arizona provided an inspiational program to our Club. She's a terrific role model for youth and a great advocatie for higher education.
Janice K. Brewer became the 22nd person to take the oath of office as Governor of Arizona on January 21, 2009. She is Arizona's fifth Secretary of State to succeed to Governor in mid-term. We are pleased to have her address the Club
"Apply sound business principles and be prepared for the culture! advises seniors council chief." That's the title of the Gary Hirsch article that appeared June 15th in Inside Tucson Business. Publisher, David Hatfield, has approved the reprinting Gary's column when he profiles one of our own. Thanks David. here's the full article...
RCOT member, Gary Hirsch, is a regular contirbutor to Inside Tucson Business.
On June 15th, 2009, Gary wrote about Jim Murphy. See the full story on OUR web page right now.
Six Make the Trek -- Scott and Margy Vaughan, Bob and Char Ernstein and Pauline and Gene Hechler drove up to The Francisco Grande on Sunday, June 28, to be part of the installation of Steve DiMuzio as the new District Governor for RI District 5500.
Goodwill Industries International has recognized the good work of the RCoT Vocational Service Committee (Suzanne Lawder, Frank Zunno, Bob Ernstein & Joe Nevin). AND RI and Goodwill Industries International have extended the Agreement of Understanding on Workforce Development to 2014.
Seize the opportunity to show your skills and imagination to make the Tucson Classics Car Show administration and the show even better.
Immediate opening for training of qualified applicant.
Things have been "all shook up" by Elvis Vaughan, new exalted ruler of the RCOT. Is it an administrative shake up or just a new board with wacky ideas? New areas of responsibility have been created to align with rotary's 21st century best practices.
Extraordinary and relevant programs are happening week after week at our Wednesday meetings. Program Chair, Joan McNamara, says, "It's my committee. They are a tremendous resource." So far this year highlights have been DR KEVIN LEHMAN, DR ROBERT SHELTON with DR ADRIAN SHELTON, HAL HALVORSEN (The Candy Bomber)...
San Carlos, Mexico has its first library and an initial stack of books thanks to the generosity of Rotarians of Tucson and San Carlos. District 5500 Governor, Tom Tilton, and Club President, Charlotte Harris, review progress at the Library site.
It goes regularly to all members AND occasionally to "Friends of the Club". Most weeks this is the only club e-mail members get -- and it's loaded with timely news and information. Even the MENU for the day is there too.
We expect that all club activities will be previewed and reported here. Has your committee been featured yet? If not, what are your going to do?
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Our Home Hospitality events are scheduled for the week of April 21st through the 27th and we are looking for members to host during the week. These social events will replace our Wednesday, April 24th lunch meeting. If you are interested in hosting a small or large group at your home, place of business or even at a restaurant, please let Dorinna know the date, time, location and the amount of guests you will host. 
The intention of this presentation is to introduce the attendees to Feng Shui on a broader scope, and the concept of ‘energy’ which emanates from the physical form of the environment. Did you ever walk into a space and feel creepy? Feng Shui can explain why! Energies can be beneficial and enhance human life, stagnant and non-supportive, or even destructive. This presentation will show how to recognize some of these energies, provide insights on how to capitalize on the beneficial ones, and mitigation techniques to neutralize the negative ones. In essence, the goal of the presentation is to enhance the way we look at the world.
The Surgeon General's job is to protect, promote and advance the health, safety and security of the nation. A seemingly simple value proposition until you factor in the intense partisanship and dysfunctional politics that have a morbidity and mortality of its own. Surgeon General Carmona will discuss his journey to becoming Surgeon General as well as the challenges and opportunities of being Surgeon General.
John Horsman will join us for an “interview” type of program about his experiences in the world of professional sports car designing, constructing and racing. His life in sports car racing is historical to say the least. Having won major races all over the world, and having designed, developed and constructed many of the greatest race cars, John and his wife, Janet, have retired to Tucson but his interest in racing has never diminished. This year, John and his friends, are bringing four of the world’s best known racing sports cars to our Tucson Classics Car Show. They will be on display for you and our guests to enjoy. Included will be a Porsche 917 and a Mirage M1, M6 and GR8. John will also be available to discuss each car and to answer questions during the day.
Kristian Richardson will address Arizona’s position in the global economy, primary industries for Arizona’s exports and foreign direct investment. Kristian will answer questions related to Federal, State and local resources to help companies access global markets.
Greg Byrne was named Arizona's 11th Director of Athletics in March 2010 and officially started in that role on May 3, 2010. Since then, Byrne has helped Arizona Athletics maintain its proud position both nationally and in the Pac-12 through the department’s five goals and principles: Graduate Student-Athletes; Follow the Rules; Represent the University and Athletics Department in a First-Class Manner; Practice Sound Fiscal Management; and Compete for Championships. In addition, Byrne has spent most of his tenure focused on new fundraising initiatives, member expansion for the Wildcat Club and facility upgrades.
The state of Arizona has long been the importing capitol for Mexican fresh fruits and vegetables. In fact, more than 4 billion pounds cross the border in Nogales each year, generating economic impact throughout southern Arizona and the whole state. Learn about the major issues and opportunities presented by this century-old business, with a presentation from Lance Jungmeyer, President of the Fresh Produce Association of the Americas.
entzel will give an update about the latest news at Tucson International Airport. Among other things, hear about new air service and efforts to attract more flights, the impact of airline mergers, the impact of Phoenix Sky Harbor on TIA, major terminal and airfield projects and the new air traffic control tower.
Pima Association of Governments is the region’s federally designated metropolitan planning organization that coordinates cross-jurisdictional planning efforts with PAG members. PAG has a nine-member Regional Council composed of chief elected officials or designees from the Cities of South Tucson and Tucson, the Towns of Marana, Oro Valley and Sahuarita, Pima County, the Pascua Yaqui Tribe, the Tohono O'odham Nation and the Governor-appointed Pima County representative of the Arizona State Transportation Board.
ERNIE MINCHELLA introduced our newest member, CHOM HUBER. CHOM is looking forward to her involvement in Tucson Rotary, and is especially looking forward to giving her time and support to local charities!
freshman Congressional member. I especially appreciate her focus on the A-10 and maintaining a squadron here at Davis-Monthan. It seems to me that the Tucson area needs the continued support of all our Congressional leaders to ensure we don’t lose a significant portion of our economy.
The topic for our assembly is ” Where is the Bang for our Buck” or “What are the current major community issues facing Tucson that our charitable dollars could best be used to improve?”
gresswoman Martha McSally proudly represents the people of Arizona’s Second Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives, where she serves on the Committees on Armed Services and Homeland Security and as the chair of the Subcommittee on Emergency Preparedness, Response, and Communications.
My name is Goel Ellis. I was born Zahra Golab Mohammadpourhajitarkhani. Life has not been easy for me by any means, but with that said I refused to let my situation become my circumstances. I have experienced depression, bullying, drug abuse, and family illness. Through all of this, one place has been there to help me maintain my sanity and thrive. My Boys and Girls Club has been a part of my life for the past 11 years. It has given me knowledge, supportive relationships, wonderful experiences, and has set me up on a path for success. When I walk through the doors of my clubhouse, I can be whoever I want to be, and there are caring and supportive staff who see my full potential and want to help see me succeed. However outside those doors it’s not always that way.
g to the Centers for Disease Control, the United States is in the midst of the largest epidemic of opiate and heroin addiction in the history of the world. There are now more deaths from opiate overdose than all motor vehicle accidents and the numbers are growing. Arizona is ranked in the top 10 states struggling with this epidemic. At the June 10th meeting, we will hear from Dr. Lenn Ditmanson, Medical Director of the Opiate Treatment Program at COPE Community Services followed by a panel discussion. The discussion will be moderated by Lupita Murillo from Channel 4.
national's Manual of Procedure (2013), states that Club Assemblies "are held...to share club projects, activities and other initiatives." This week's meeting is designed to explore the future of our Club with our Membership. Our Board of Directors typically sets daily, weekly and yearly policy, but the Membership must give our Board general and long term direction. This helps the Board both follow the general Membership's desires for current policies as well as establishing the parameters for future goals.
Lea Marquez Peterson - Biography
Bio for David Fitzsimmons
Jerry Harris will talk about the evolution of the American novel, novels and novelists who influenced him, standards for a novel, and the making of his second novel, “Lim Couch”.
Mayor Jonathan Rothschild
Networking table event that will be held on April 1st at 11:30 am. JENNIFER HOFFMAN said ROTARY DAYS will be held on Sat. March 28th and tickets are only $5. CINDY GODWIN gave a well -deserved blue badge to DALE BERG. And finally DAVE GALLAHER mentioned again that they were looking for a host family for Maria Gaad from Finland.
a “service organization with memberships” and more as a “membership organization that does service”. We need to show prospective members that we can do things together that you simply cannot achieve on your own like the fight against Polio. BRAD provided a progress report on the fight against Polio. It now only exists in three countries (Nigeria, Afghanistan, and Pakistan) with only 359 new cases reported in 2014 (down from over 350,000 in the mid 1980s)! If we reach July 24th with no new cases in Nigeria, Polio will have been eradicated from the continent of Africa! BRAD gave an outstanding presentation that brought everyone to their feet for a standing ovation!
Bradford R. Howard (Brad)
Hanson, TSO Music Director and Conductor 
, Brent DeRaad, president and CEO of Visit Tucson, the travel promotion agency for Tucson and southern Arizona, will discuss tourism’s impact on the region’s economy. He will also focus on how to increase visitation to Tucson, which will increase visitor spending, regional sales- and bed-tax revenue, and area jobs tied to the travel industry.
The greatest sight you’ll ever see
Y, also called the Millennial Generation, presents distinct challenges in challenging times, there is much reason for optimism. This is in one of the most peaceful, secure, innovative, and globalized periods in human history, with a Millennial generation rising that is financially smart, multilingual, born-global, technologically advanced, culturally diverse, and community-centered. How we catalyze and harness this potential is crucial to a sustainable and productive future. Zach will share some thoughts on why he believes this Generation statistically could be the Next Greatest Generation, present a few key ways Millennials think, process, and interact, and ideas for engaging with them productively.
Rotary! He entered the meeting just after the pledge and song, with a red sack filled with something. Not sure what, since I didn’t see him handing out any gifts. He certainly didn’t give me a gift… but it appears I’m in good company with all you other naughty Rotarians who didn’t receive a gift!
s a dance presentation put on by students of Joseph Rodgers and Soleste Lupu's "Dancing in the Streets". For me, it was great seeing young kids involved with an activity that demands discipline, dedication and perseverance, life skills that will certainly help each of them “dance towards a better life.”
ecord-Setting Tucson Rotary Marathon Relay Team!!! Congratulations ...
G IN THE STREETS ARIZONA:
oliday Raffle to benefit The Reading Seed Library; best prizes of the year and two ways to enter: at the Holiday Mixer on Dec 17 bring children’s books to donate and receive two raffle tickets for each book donated, or buy raffle tickets $10 each 3 for $20 and all money collected will be used to buy more books. Good children’s books are the keystone on learning to read and wanting to read better.
mber that year….)
nd of next year! .jpg)
d BOB LOGAN had a large group for Paul Harris recognition; congratulations and thank you to JOE NEVIN, JOHN COUSINS, DICK KOLASA, MICHELLE FELIX, President MARY MARTIN, CAROL LONG, RANDY LONG and LARRY ADAMSON.
oldwell Banker Residential Brokerage introduced new member BUZZ DEMPSEY of VIP Mortgage, who has a passion for sports and has served as an Official National PAC Referee.
ROGER HARWELL for his Copper Cactus Award, and to JIM MURPHY for this year's Founders Award!
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Vicheara was born in Phnom Penh, Cambodia in the peaceful days before the Khmer Rouge communist rebels engulfed this small Southeast Asian nation in four years of death and destruction. As the only child of a wealthy and politically prominent father, her young life was one of great contrasts. She went to University of Phnom Penh to study pharmacy and met her husband there. Their forbidden romance caused much conflict but eventually they prevailed and married in January,1975, four months before the Khmer Rouge took over and their lives turned upside down.
ALLUMS and MARGARET HIGGINS. Happy birthday to you all!
honorary member, LEA MARQUEZ PETERSON of the Tucson Hispanic Chamber. Welcome LEA!
hy for Robert (Bob) Graham
wyers, in addition to PETER and DAVID, we had a very interesting and informative presentation from retired Chief Justice of the AZ Supreme Court, Stanley G. Feldman. Justice Feldman, with 20-years experience on the Supreme Court, provided his insight regarding the pros and cons of the death penalty. Based upon the number of questions he received following his presentation, I’d say his topic was of interest to many in our club.
Yvonne Ervin is the Executive Director of the Tucson Jazz Festival and is also Executive Director of the Western Jazz Presenters Network and editor of Hot House magazine in NYC. She has worked as a jazz journalist in print and radio for more than 30 years, interviewing more than 150 jazz legends. She was the founding executive director of the Tucson Jazz Society and marketing director for the Tucson Symphony Orchestra. She organized the Primavera Jazz Fest, the world’s longest-running women’s jazz festival and produced the first Jazz on the Border: The Mingus Project, a week-long festival in Nogales Arizona and Sonora. Most recently, Yvonne was the Development Director for the Confluencenter for Creative Inquiry at the UA and she is President of the Tucson Jazz Music Foundation which supports the Tucson Jazz Institute Ellington Band.
ant At Arms, David Pashkow, is looking for a few volunteers to be on a permanent list to assist with selling raffle tickets before the meeting. These members would be notified by email prior to the meeting to arrive a few minutes early and sell tickets as attendees walk in the door. Raffles usually happen every other week or twice in a month. If you are interested in assisting, please contact David at 429-0496 or email at dapco@msn.com.
ere executed in the US from 1976 through October 2, 2014, primarily by means of lethal injection. Most death penalty cases involve the execution of those convicted of murder, although capital punishment can also be applied for treason, espionage, and other crimes.
The Club is in need of some volunteers to sell raffle tickets before the meetings. This would be a permanent list of raffle ticket sellers. You would be contacted when your services would be needed. Normally there is a raffle held twice a month. Members will arrive early and work with the Sergeant At Arms, David Pashkow and Assistant Sergeant At Arms, Irene Decker to sell tickets. Please email David Pashkow at 
ou may find it to be a life-changing experience.
ad but true.
"The 8th Annual Tucson Classics Car Show final preparation is underway. This week's program will be to outline what that entails for the 2014 event on 
IENT MARY called our attention to the podium!
look at how the Microworld really does have a lot of positives for life if one can adjust their attitudes.
ularity and success of the British TV-series Downton Abbey has many causes (including its brilliant cast) and many explanations (including our desire to both criticize and live in the world It recreates). But one of them is surely the fact that it strives, often successfully, to be truly historical fiction in the classic sense of the standards set by Sir Walter Scott in the United Kingdom and James Fenimore Cooper of the United States, both in the first half of the nineteenth century. This illustrated talk will look at the most essential and lasting ingredients of genuinely historical fiction stemming from Scott and Cooper, among others, and show how – and to what purposes -- Downton Abbey has used all of them, at one time or another, ever since its debut in 2010. It will also highlight some particular examples (from the seasons so far) of Downton’s fictional characters mixing with actual people in history, some grand and some notorious, and being swept up in both famous and little-known historical events and trends. It is not just the great settings and costumes that put the audience there in Downton Abbey. It is also its immersion in history itself.
national popularity and success of the British TV-series Downton Abbey has many causes (including its brilliant cast) and many explanations (including our desire to both criticize and live in the world I recreates). But one of them is surely the fact that it strives, often successfully, to be truly historical fiction in the classic sense of the standards set by Sir Walter Scott in the United Kingdom and James Fenimore Cooper of the United States, both in the first half of the nineteenth century. This illustrated talk will look at the most essential and lasting ingredients of genuinely historical fiction stemming from Scott and Cooper, among others, and show how – and to what purposes -- Downton Abbey has used all of them, at one time or another, ever since its debut in 2010. It will also highlight some particular examples (from the seasons so far) of Downton’s fictional characters mixing with actual people in history, some grand and some notorious, and being swept up in both famous and little-known historical events and trends. It is not just the great settings and costumes that put the audience there in Downton Abbey. It is also its immersion in history itself.
ASE wear our Rotary Community Service Shirt for ALL service opportunities:
hes to DAVID PASHKOW and new member KATHLEEN HUDSON. KATHLEEN also shared that it has been a banner year in her life which, in addition to joining our club, has been highlighted by her recent engagement.
ions CHRIS!
Conference at Hilton El Conquistador promises to be one of the best District Conferences. As you know, the Club meeting is being replaced with the luncheon at the Conference. Immediately after the luncheon on Friday at 1:45 PM, we will have the first session of the service project selected by our own DG Sally Montagne that involves the assembly of prosthetic hands. This is a unique project where we will work in teams of 2-3 people performing the assembly of hands that are distributed around the world to people who have lost their hands by accident. The task is easy and fun and the first session will run from 1:45 PM to 3:15 PM. If you are coming for lunch, please register for an hour of helping with this project. On Saturday, we will have two sessions for hand assembly. The first begins at 10:15 AM and ends at 11:45 AM. The second session begins after Saturday lunch at 2:15 PM to 4:00 PM. We need 30 volunteers per session. Each hand costs $50 and any donations are welcome as we are about $1,500 short of reaching our $5,000 goal. Please register a spot by emailing Co-Chairs Dave Gallaher and Lauren Klase. Those email addresses are: 
d into the pledge and song with PETE MAYER taking the vocal lead for the Star Spangled Banner.
cer. (I did that on purpose for all you English majors!) . The first speaker; Mr. John Paul Jones III is the Dean of U of A’s College of Social and Behavioral Sciences; also known as “The People’s College”. His College’s motto is “No closed doors and no “no’s”. His goal is 100% student engagement and to that end has students involved in the Mayor’s Commission on Poverty and the Community & School Garden Project. The second speaker, Lydia Breunig, U of A’s Director of Outreach and Special Projects spoke about the Downtown Lecture Series which started in 2013 with lectures on “Happiness”. This series was a huge success, filling the Fox Theater to overflow capacity. The 2014 lecture series will be on “Food” and it’s “Connection with Health, Culture and the Environment”. She filled the Fox Theater last year. Her goal this year is to fill local businesses and businesses outside of Tucson with live and online streaming video. Good luck Lydia! 
e members of our Rotary Club know that Drew is a recovering restaurateur, having run a 5 Star/5 Diamond restaurant called The Tack Room for many years. In 2000, he retired to a world of International travel as a guest lecturer on cruise ships for 6 years. As a high ranking SCUBA Instructor, he and his wife, Honorary Rotarian Kandie Vactor, have led exotic live-aboard dive boat trips around the world for 15 years while doing web site design as the Owner/Webmaster of 5 Star Web Design. He created the Rotary Club of Tucson's original website and the original website for our Tucson Classics Car Show.
ay wish to NANCY PURDIN and RALPH PHILLIPS. Today NANCY shared that not only were she and RALPH born on the same day but also the same year! She claimed to be his twin (wink wink). RALPH added that they were long lost twins from another mother and father! Nancy gave a generous donation to the Bolivia Project and Ralph did the same but to JOHN COUSIN's cause.
ure to be here today, but it's a pleasure to be anywhere ANY DAY!", and proceeded to give an insightful history of the Tucson Rotary Club. CHARLOTTE HARRIS presented MICHELLE FELIX with her blue badge. Congratulations, MICHELLE!
ity) is a Professor of Geography and Development and Dean of the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences at the University of Arizona.
When working the Car Show, selling Car Show tickets, or for any community service activity, all Rotarians are required to wear a Community Service Shirt. All new members and those that do not have a community shirt, please submit requests to Jon Wang via telephone 520-360-1050 or email Jon at 
e $500 if he had a match from another ROTARIAN. Maybe to his surprise, he had not one but two takers agree to match his $500, so I think it was a good day for Paul Harris donations!
ns are in order for three new members, EVAN MANNING, KATHLEEN HUDSON and BILL FETZER. EVAN’S sponsor, TOM STRASBURG, informed us that EVAN was perhaps the youngest member in the club. I’m not so sure about that, KATHLEEN looked just as young to me! And while BILL may be a little older, he’s a fellow engineer, and as such, I’m sure I can overlook his being a Lion and not a Wild Cat.
ealth Safe Space is a collaborative campaign designed to educate the community about mental illness to help eliminate fear and stigma while building compassion and greater understanding. The 60-90 minute trainings leave attendees with a better knowledge of mental illness, ways to identify signs of mental illness and practical skills for support in non-crisis and crisis situations when mental illness is involved. The goal of the project is to create a “Stigma Free Zone/s” and build a more educated and compassionate community to prevent discrimination and misunderstanding, and to improve public safety.
R introduced the many distinguished guests and visiting Rotarians, among who were four distinguished prospective Rotarians and Rotary Scholar Arthur Platt. Their were numerous raffle items where the chosen tickets seemed to be missing in action until the” Rowdy Table” started banging the table and experienced a tremendous streak of luck.
b’s initial investment, has grown to include many other vital programs for disabled individuals. A wonderful program was offered by PAT ZUMBUSCH entitled “Social Security; History, Myths, and Strategies”, and we adjourned at 1:15 with the Toast- “The Social Security program plays an important part in providing for families, children, and older persons in times of stress. But it cannot remain static. Changes in our population, in our working habits, and in our standard of living require constant revision.” John F Kennedy, 6/20/61.
Gina Hansen will be discussing the Pet Therapy & Visitation Program, which will include the Human Animal Bond, testing, training, what kind of animal personalities we are looking for benefits of the program and talk about where the therapy animals visit in our community. We will also have some information about volunteering with HSSA.
If you miss attending a weekly Rotary meeting, the Rotary Office will send you a “We Missed You At Rotary” email letting you know we did not receive your name on the blue attendance sheets. In this email, we also encourage you to do a “Make Up” for that missed meeting. Make ups can be accomplished in many different ways: by attending another Rotary Club’s meeting, any Rotary Committee meeting, a Rotary charitable function, a Rotary event, or by making up online with eClubOne found on our home page at www.tucsonrotary.org. Simply turn in a makeup card to the Rotary office, or send an email to rotary@tucsonrotary.org with the date of the missed meeting, along with the date and name of the makeup event. REMEMBER: In order for a Makeup to be accepted, it has to be 14 days before or 14 days after a missed meeting, no exceptions.
Chinese tradition, she is going to spend another year at 29!
We are honored to have two Paul Harris presentations, EMERY BARKER and SUZANNE LAWDER, along with two new members introduced, BRUCE RICHARDSON and BILL MESCH. Congratulations to all!
people each day qualifying for Social Security benefit payments, this Federal program impacts more than 63 million Americans. Financially speaking, the impact of this benefit is large but, unfortunately, the knowledge or comfort most people have about Social Security is rudimentary at best and confusion reigns.
hange Student, Maria Gadd arrived in Tucson and was warmly greeted by some of our Rotarians. Maria will be staying with host family, Allen and Michelle Kinnison. They will all be introduced at next weeks meeting. Welcome Maria!!!
T Turner of the Tucson Police Department’s Specialized Response Division will provide an overview of the Department’s Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) Team. He will discuss the unit’s mission and the types and frequency of calls that the team responds to. He will explain some of the tools and tactics used by the team and the philosophy and history behind the creation and use of SWAT teams in law enforcement. Tools and equipment utilized by the Tucson SWAT Team will be on display and members of the team will be available to explain the tools and equipment and answer questions.
is an attorney who practiced law in Washington, DC for over 40 years and is a graduate of Vassar College and Georgetown Law School. Her primary fields of practice were criminal defense law and human rights law. She has taught law, trial practice and forensic law in many places including George Washington University and the National Institute of Trial Advocacy, and the DC Police Academy. In addition Sally has worked in the US Senate, on two White House staffs, in private law practice in Washington, DC and is retired from the Washington, DC Public Defender Service. She has also taught skiing as a professionally certified ski instructor. 
a lot of guests attending the meeting.
thanked the sergeants in his absence. DOT KRET, MARY MARTIN, and TERESA LIVERZANI-BAKER all gave Happy Jackson announcements. STACIA DECKER was fined. ROGER HARWELL promoted the scholarship program. It was great to hear how many youth we support at both Pima Community College and the University of Arizona! I will admit to missing a few details through this part of the meeting…. We were having good fellowship at our table…
working hard to comply with RI's branding requirements, so if any of you are using the current Rotary logo, which is just the wheel, please discontinue using that and begin using the correct Rotary Logo. If you have any questions, please contact Cindy Godwin and she will assist you in the proper use of the new brand.
dor. MARY MARTIN reminded all that this weekend is the inauguration of the new Streetcar and that MARK IRVIN and ELLIE PATTERSON are intimately involved with the Streetcar.
LUBINSKI and DAVE GALLAHER had developed a contest with Jerry Oliver, immediate past president of the Phoenix 100 Club, based on four factors: increase in Paul Harris Fellows during the year; higher average attendance during the year; higher average giving during the year; and increase in members. Jerry congratulated RCOT for its “victory” and presented our Club with a trophy and a $1000 check. President MARY and new Phoenix 100 Club President, Clef Peterson agreed to continue the contest for this current year.
n Arizona (CPSA) is the Regional Behavioral Health Authority (RBHA) contracted by the state of Arizona to coordinate and manage publicly funded behavioral health services for children, adults and their families in Pima County. CPSA coordinates, by way of a provider network, the delivery of mental health and substance use treatment services, and behavioral health wellness and prevention services.
S and CHERYL HOUSE were both fined for appearing in the newspaper. MIKE ORCUTT reminded the Red Badge members of the STAR meeting that will take place on July 24th. JENNIFER HOFFMAN announced that we will be collecting school supplies for the next two meetings for GAP Ministries. TOM ANDREWS introduced exchange student Gabriel Torres from Ecuador. Gabriel is currently bei
ng hosted by JOHN and Kharmyn COUSINS. TOM also introduced Ayana Green, who recently graduated from Rincon High School. Our Club is sponsoring Ayana as an exchange student to Denmark. 
If you haven’t made this hike and this place is on your bucket list, here is your chance! This trip is sponsored by the RYE program for our neighboring District 5510. It is extremely well organized by Chuck Flint, a member of the Mesa Rotary Club and is a blast. Havasupai Canyon is one of the most scenic spots in all of Arizona, and this hike incorporates spectacular scenery plus the opportunity to mingle with the state’s RYE students from two Districts that include 5490 and 5500. The canyon is home to many waterfalls including the famous Havasu Falls and Mooney Falls, which is the highest waterfall in Arizona and the Indian village of Supai, Arizona. Anyone is welcome to attend and registration ends October 1. Non Rotarians are welcome! 
randfather’s farm Moravia in central New York. His father was a carpenter; his mother a housewife. He has two brothers and a sister. In high school, he played football, baseball and basketball and was president of the Student Council. He graduated from the United States Air Force Academy in 1965 and entered pilot training in Selma, Alabama, just a few months after Martin Luther King, Jr.’s civil rights march to Montgomery.
about spies to death tactics used in the Cold War (maybe I am over-embellishing a bit). It is a nice touch about something that many do not know much about and for others it is a better understanding of a tense time. 
Hello Fellow Rotarians,
resident MARY MARTIN rang the meeting to order right on time. A great start to her year in leadership. Her promptness caught TED KIRACOFE off guard for his invocation. He gave a nice piece about change in administration. CLIFF BOWMAN our club A-10 STUD, lead us in the pledge and a special heartfelt rendition of the Star Spangled Banner. GARY HIRSCH accompanied on the piano and also put a little extra into it.
RY!!
ary Powers, Jr., Founder and Chairman Emeritus of The Cold War Museum, will provide a brief overview of the Cold War, help clear up the misinformation associated with the U-2 Incident, and his efforts to educate future generations about this time period.
join our incoming President, Mary Martin, for an overview of her trip to the International Convention held in Sydney, AustraIia. Mary will share the impact Rotary has worldwide. She will also outline her goals for the 2014-2015 Rotary Year and introduce the 2014-2015 Board of Directors who will assist in helping her achieve those goals. 
NT DAVE opened the meeting with a moment of silence for JANIS COTTEN, a member since March 2008 who passed away on March 13, 2013 (during Dave's tenure as Club President).
ests including our District Governor. We wished happy birthday to CHERYL HOUSE, ED COLE, and MONTE CLAUSEN.
past month, RCOT became a member of the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. During the past year, we have had a lot of discussion on how we grow our Club and how we can increase the diversity of our membership. The Hispanic Chamber’s 1000 business members represent a great opportunity to expand our Club. This is also a great group for us to network the power of Rotary and community and world service and promote our international projects including our efforts in San Carlos, Sonora. 
Whew! How fast a year goes by can be pretty amazing. It is difficult to write about all of the remarkable things our amazing Rotary Club does during a year, and remember all the people I would like to thank. We had incredible accomplishments and I think we can all agree we lived and celebrated this year’s Rotary International theme of “Engage Rotary-Change Lives”. Let’s look at just a few of the many things our Club accomplished this past year.
edge and song. CHRIS EDWARDS did his personal best introducing our guests and visitors. Our birthday bunch was a fierce group with IRENE DECKER (a lovely car show story), ERNIE MINCHELLA (Buongiorno), MAYOR JONATHAN ROTHSCHILD (Dorado PRIDE), and PAT ZUMBUSCH ($1,000 dollar gift!!!).
Her father, RICHARD MUNDINGER and our President DAVE GALLAHER received one as well. Dave gave ALLYN BULZOMI a special gift PH for his help this year. CLARKE DUNCAN also received one. If this guy doesn’t make you want to become/ do “more”, I don’t know who would. Congrats to you all.
e 450th anniversary of William Shakespeare’s birth. Arizona Theatre Company’s artistic director and two leading local actors discuss the continuing relevance of the Bard in our times, what makes Shakespeare our contemporary and what he still has to teach us in the 21st century. To mark next season’s ATC production, two of Tucson’s finest local actors, Harold and Maedell Dixon, will perform excerpts from Romeo and Juliet as well as some of Shakespeare’s most beautiful sonnets.
t”. Interesting facts that it was created in 1942 and began with, and still has the same 24 words. CHARLIE MEAKER made the introductions of guests and visiting Rotarians. He also presented PRESIDENT DAVE with his very own Kazoo. Some might have noticed PRES DAVE struggling to find which end was the proper end to blow into. Might I recommend private lessons CHARLIE.
eir blue badges.
meal, etc. CLIFF can give you more information about this program.
were many guest and visitors recognized by new member, PATRICIA WATTS.
R introduced new member CHRIS LUDWIG, a CPA with many years of experience in Tucson. DREW had a well-organized slide show highlighting CHRIS’ background, including his Ohio Buckeye status. The Club welcomed him despite his college affiliation.
Bishop Gerald F. Kicanas was installed as Bishop of Tucson on March 7, 2003. He was appointed Coadjutor Bishop of Tucson on October 30, 2001. He was appointed Auxiliary Bishop of Chicago on January 24, 1995 and served as Episcopal Vicar of Vicariate I of the Archdiocese of Chicago. He was ordained a bishop on March 20, 1995.
PAT ZUMBUSH gave the perfect invocation considering our guest panel of city and county leaders.
ies, Inc. (TREO), Mike Varney - President & CEO of the 
Tucson Metro Chamber, and Brent DeRaad - President & CEO of Metropolitan Tucson Convention & Visitors Bureau.
The Rotary Club of Tucson Foundation was established in 1975 as the 501c3 charitable arm of our organization. Its purpose is to receive charitable gifts and to disburse funds for charitable, civic, educational and similar purposes in a manner so that contributions qualify as deductions under the IRS code. With the dedication, hard work and generosity of Rotary Club of Tucson members and supporters, we are able to improve the lives of others. Our major contributions during the last five years are: Reading Seed of Literacy Connects, our centennial project; scholarships for students attending the University of Arizona and Pima Community College; and the annual San Carlos Program. Our annual Tucson Classics Car Show is one area of the foundation, raising funds annually that benefits our local community.
We had a great work project on Saturday, May 10th at the Triangle Y Camp beyond Oracle. The RCOT and the Camp (opened in 1948) have had a long relationship over the years and it has been a long time since we have last visited with a work project. If I was to try and thank everyone who showed, I know I will leave someone out! Past President Bill Harlow did admit to attending Camp in 1950 and as such was our “oldest” former camper. You guys and gals rock! We also had our first work project with our shared Rotoract Club from the University of Arizona. We share them with the Tucson Sunrise Rotary Club. They had a car load of five show up and they worked hard with the rest of us. The Camp opens the second week of June and they are behind in several areas that included painting the bathrooms and landscaping (removal) of several key areas where the kids travel. Trying to snake proof that place would take a life time and snakes are part of the desert but we made a good dent in several key areas. 
Arms JENNIFER HOFFMAN conducted our weekly raffle, in which this editor again failed to win a prize. JENNIFER gave the microphone to RICHARD WHITE, who announced that he is retiring from the Red Cross on June 14th. RICHARD gave a contribution to Polio Plus as his fine.
in August.
collected for the Car Show funds and BILL announced that the Club would send an e-mail later in the day with the results.
est member.
CHLER opened the meeting with a wonderful invocation. BOB LOGAN led the pledge and invited Special Olympian Nathan Womack to sing the Star Spangled Banner.
ith Congressmen Ron Barber and Raul Grijalva. They covered a wide range of topics including; the Affordable Care Act, Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, E
me for single mothers. She had relatively little material things and had no use for them but she marveled at the world and stopped each day to admire a sunset, her hummingbird feeder, her favorite roadrunner, the current weather, her bridge club, and of course her grandchildren and great grandchildren. She was a wonderful grandmother to all of our RYE students and was most supportive of Susan and myself in all of our Rotary activities. She particularly loved our Club home hospitality and we always included her and she enjoyed telling many stories of the “old” Tucson days. She was a resident of Tucson for sixty years.
uez shared he believes the wide receivers are the best he has ever coached. There are seven high quality QB’s now and probably nine in the fall but he expects to carry about six for the season. Coach addressed the question about his plans of staying at the U of A head on. He stated he would like to finish his career here which brought loud applause. There was a humorous moment during the Q&A when the Athletic Director for Pima Community College introduced himself and PCC’s head coach by asking if they could have QB’s 7, 8 or 9 which brought a good laugh. Coach Rodriguez made his exit by walking thru the crowd shaking hands and saying hellos to a standing ovation. 
Ron Barber (born August 25, 1945) has been a member of the United States House of Representatives from Arizona, served as district director for U.S. Representative Gabrielle Giffords who resigned her seat. He won the Democratic nomination for the special election to finish Giffords' term and was sworn into office on June 19, 2012.
iguez enters his third season as head coach of the Arizona football program. He was introduced as the 30th head coach on Nov. 22, 2011.
Continuing with Reading Seed recognition, the Rotary Club of Tucson has nine Reading Seed Coaches serving Robison Elementary. Three of these continue to serve even though they are no longer active members of the Club. Cliff Bowman, Burt Strug, Dick Sanderson, Roger Harwell, Charlotte Harris, Jon Wang. Jan Seagondollar, Don Laidlaw and Michael Apsell are former members who continue to serve.
N and HUGH THOMPSON were honored for their annual commitments to the Paul Harris Society, and Eagle Scout JOHN LEWIS will be honored by the Boy Scouts Catalina Council with their Construction Lending for Life award. Yes, that really was BOB SHAFF on TV during the Pac-12 tournament. Requests for volunteers were as plentiful as green beer on St. Patrick’s Day: MARCIA KRUMWIEDE-TIMS pitched for 
volunteers at the upcoming Community Food Bank project, and STACIA DECKER put out the call for ticket-sellers at the 4th Avenue Street Fair. 
On Friday, April 4th at the Proscenium Theatre, Pima County Community College, Tucson Kino Rotary Club is supporting the ICAN Tango II event. This event supports The Claire Nelson Brain Tumor Program. They have negotiated a 20% discount on ticket purchases if you use the Promotional Code: KinoRotaryTango when making your online or phone reservation. Contact Carlos E. Garcia, Kino Rotary/Secretary at 520-270-1342 if you have any questions.
VE called special attention to a new author – JERRY HARRIS. His first book “A Broken Circle” is available on Amazon. Congratulations, JERRY! 
aced by Pauline Spurgiesz. Our thanks to Arla for her exceptional service! 
w members were introduced -- TIM OVERTON, with National Bank of Arizona, sponsored by JIM LUBINSKI, and ALANA DURRENBERGER, a CPA and Tucson native, sponsored by LINDSAY BISHO
P. 
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"Hiking is a decades old tradition in this club. 21 Rotarians/spouses/partners hiked the Grand Canyon last March, going down the South Kaibab Trail, spending two days at Phantom Ranch, then up the Bright Angel Trail two days later. This 
were asked to wear western wear this week for the Costume Contest and the DoubleTree Ballroom looked like the set of a John Wayne movie at Old Tucson Studios. It was noted that Rotarians helped organize the first Tucson Rodeo 50 years ago! 
entertained members with several tunes from the 1920’s and 1930’s and invited members to join in to sing “Let Me Call You Sweetheart.” The quartet’s final song, “I Don’t Know Why, I Just Do,” apparently is a favorite of PRECEDENT DAVE. Reliable sources have confirmed that whenever his wife Susan, his children, business clients or frankly anybody asks Dave to explain why he does any of the many strange things he does, his standard response is: “I don’t know why, I just do!” 
announcements. JENNIFER informed us that they are going after anyone whose phone rings during the meeting. The fine is $100, and I can tell you from personal experience that no phone ring will be missed by SHERLOCK HOFFMAN.
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. Some highlights include: 
ndrea enters his 29th season as the head coach of the University of Arizona softball team in 2014 and under his guidance reaching the pinnacle should once again underscore a record of success almost unparalleled by any program in any sport at any level. 
WS asked for assistance in scheduling social activities for a short-term exchange student from Peru. VICKIE JACOBS introduced DON ROLLINGS, who awarded coveted blue badges to CAROL AND RANDY LONG. Randy remarked, “this is the best and friendliest club” they have ever attended. PRESIDENT DAVE and ALLYN BULZOMI proudly announced that we are inducting the Club’s very first Interact Club on Saturday, January 11. BULZOMI then provided an update on planning for the Feed My Starving Children food packing project, which will take place on February 1st. There are 290 volunteer slots to fill.
C. Comrie serves as the Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost. He is the chief academic officer of the University, overseeing all academic programs and units exclusive of the health sciences and medical enterprise where academic programs come under the oversight of the senior vice president for health sciences. 
President Gordon Bartlett. Gary has seen 36 Club Presidents during his years as a Rotarian in our club. Gary supports the San Carlos Project, the Tucson Classic Car Show and other Rotary projects. Gary says he is most proud of bringing his daughter, Stacia Decker, Dr. Paul Cinalli, Irene Decker and Tony Pedroza into the club. 
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ur experts: "Santa" John Cousins at Wal-Mart--Speedway & Kolb in his authentic Santa outfit looked and sounded like Santa for two shifts, 1:00-5:00. When you drove up to Wal-Mart you could hear and see John picking up babies and taking family pictures as well as families taking his picture with their kids. John told me he gave away 500 candy canes to everyone. Jim and Connie Murphy at 
El Con Wal-Mart brought a Boom-Box at their kettle and played fantastic Christmas music. Chris Edwards and son Corbin at Dillard's Park Place Mall flashed his patented two-hand pointing sign of service while son Corbin opened the door for the Christmas Rush Crowd. Experienced members like Gordon Graham and his wife Nancy rang the bells like they have for so many years.
of the few specialists in this area. Welcome BRETT! 
MI and JIM LUBINSKI. Several members presented checks toward this; the Holiday Mixer by DARRELL STEWART; Bell Ringing by PAT LENNAN; The Marathon Team by JENNIFER HOFFMAN; and the new President-Elect-Elect, PHIL GUTT, was announced by President-Elect, MARY MARTIN. PHIL wants to make Rotary as enjoyable as it is beneficial. 
and BOB LOGAN honored five Paul Harris recipients: Rabbi STEPHANIE AARON, MARCIA GILL, GORDON GRAHAM, ELLIE PATTERSON and DICK KOLASA. President DAVE discussed how the Fellowships could be achieved more readily with a pool of matching contribution points. 
ificant innovations in digital news gathering, advertising and distribution, coupled with expanding print plus online audiences, are transforming local newspapers into robust media companies. The direction is positive and the innovations, especially in mobile, are providing new tools and new ways to reach readers with news and information when, where and how they want it. The Arizona Daily Star, recently named “Enterprise of the Year” by parent company Lee Enterprises, is out-performing its peers. John M. Humenik, president and publisher of the Daily Star and Immediate Past Chairman of Local Media Association, one of North America’s largest media trade associations, will share his perspective on the changing landscape of the newspaper industry. 
nch, STEVE STEENSON gave a mighty effort at introducing visiting Rotarians and guests. No one would fess up to having a birthday this week, but President DAVE promised more to come. 
read science fiction).
uccess.
In 1971, Rotarian Don Rollings’ parents Kelley and Sally Rollings began buying old adobe buildings that were threatened by development or neglect in downtown. Today, Rollings Corporation and Bacon Industries own more than 30 buildings in Barrio Viejo. All were restored to their original appearance and are leased to commercial and residential tenants. The centerpiece of their holdings, Cushing Street Bar & Restaurant, opened in 1972 and was sold in 1989. Don’s sister, Betsy, took it back into the family’s holdings in 2002 and started a Saturday night jazz policy. 
g in the Street's Annual Nutcracker Performance is being held on Saturday & Sunday, December 14th & 15th at the Fox Theater. 
TIS’ THE SEASON. Thank you to Rotary District 5500 Governor Nancy Cassel for featuring The Rotary Vocational Fund of Arizona (TRVFA) in the October District newsletter. Having the President of TRVFA, Tubac Rotarian Judith Noyes, is added impetus for encouraging all Rotary Club of Tucson members to consider your annual State Tax Credit contribution in helping the “working poor” of Southern Arizona pursue vocational training. You should have received a preliminary DON’T FORGET reminder from TRVFA.
The other graduate is yours truly. 
ne-of-a-kind University of Arizona School of Science bookmark! 
vement for a young lady! JIM LUBINSKI highlighted the Board of Director nominations. Vote early, vote often … that’s another slogan and probably not FAIR or BENEFICIAL to all concerned… sorry. MATT BLAIR promoted the San Carlos trip. Lots of big wigs going on the trip this year including PRESIDENT DAVE. PAT LENNAN promoted the upcoming Salvation Army Bell Ringing Saturday. Sign up now on Clubrunner. DON ROLLINGS recognized AL GROVE with his Blue Badge. JOE NEVIN promoted the Goodwill Clothes Closet Cleaning Day – bring your gently used items next week to the meeting. 
tarians.... 
nother full meeting this week with lots of activities and a very entertaining presentation about the Mt. Lemmon Sky Lab. Having never visited this facility, I certainly have it on my list of things to do for 2014. 
Attention all Rotarian runners! On Sunday, December 8th the annual Tucson Marathon takes place. For the past ten years, The Rotary Club of Tucson has participated in the relay marathon. So if you are an avid runner or if you just run for fun, please join us! 
The Middle Ea
Hello everyone,
As we approach the Holiday Season, the choice of wines to pair with our Holiday Meals often gets pushed to the bottom of our priorities. A mad last minute dash to the wine store or grocery store wine department may not yield the best results.
Wow. What an interesting program this past week about the All Souls Procession history in Tucson. All Souls Procession is November 3 and brings thousands of people to Tucson. Fonda’s presentation was interesting and the event is becoming well known throughout the United States. Look for pictures of some of your fellow Rotarians in this year’s march. 
s, Ph.D. is the Director of the Mount Lemmon SkyCenter & UA Science: Sky School since 2012. He provides ongong vision, leadership, direction and support to the SkyCenter and Sky School in all aspects of planning, operation, budgeting and programming.
ternoon, October 17th (when teams began marking the vendor booths around the field and figuring the car rows on the field), to Sunday midday, October 20th (when everything is back as it was) a miracle happened! I wish I had time-lapse pictures of this transformation because it always amazes me. Thanks to hundreds of Rotarians, spouses, and other volunteers (too numerous to name) we DID “Finish Strong”!!! 
find ourselves organizing over 35,000 participants on the streets of downtown Tucson for a two-mile long human-powered procession that ends in the finalizing action of burning a large urn filled with the hopes, offerings and wishes of the public for those who have passed. Inside the event are myriads of installation art, altars, performers, and creatives of all kinds collaborating for almost half the year to prepare their offerings to this amazing event. The All Souls Procession, and now the entire All Souls Weekend, is a celebration and mourning of the lives of our loved ones who have passed.
nd, Marshall Dennington, President Dave, and Dominic Dresp with RYE, participated in the annual RYE Hike to Havasupai Canyon on October 10, 2013. All seven of District 5500 RYE students attended plus nine from District 5490. The trip involved a hike down to Havasu Falls and surrounding hikes while staying at the campground. We feared cold weather but everything worked out perfectly. It was an awesome trip. This is truly one of the best spots to visit in Arizona. This was Dave's 15th trip.
ted. All those who didn't are going to be asked to stand and tell everyone why. 
MARK IRVIN celebrated his birthday, along with our esteemed President DAVE GALLAHER, but PAT LENNAN was surprised that he wasn't still in detention. PAT said there must have been a worse kid in his school but he couldn't think of anyone. 
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October 2, 2013, worldwide cases of new Wild Poliovirus infections have risen when compared to the same period in 2012. Last year, the world wide total was 134. This year, to date, the world wide total is 287 newly reported cases. The incidents last year were confined to four countries. Chad and the three endemic countries, Nigeria, Afghanistan, and Pakistan were the only countries reporting new incidents at this time last year. This year, Chad has no new reported cases. Nigeria had 73 cases at this time last year. In 2013, only 49 have been reported year to date. Afghanistan is down from 19 last year to six this year. Pakistan is down from 40 last year to 36 this year. 
is program will 
give an overview of Sonoran Glass School (SGS), a non-profit glass art school located in downtown Tucson. The presentation will include a brief history of glass art, the school and description of the programs offered which benefit people in the Tucson community and how the plans to grow the school in the upcoming years. 
ua was very enlightening as well. The meeting was conducted in English. The Club is over 40 years old and has several service projects including recycling, children’s vision project, meals on wheels, wheel chair project, computers for the world, and a diabetic foot care project. The Club President Phil Harris addressed other Rotarians as Rotarian Mike, Sharon, so on. Fines were levied for infractions (e.g. viewing your I-Pad, side-bar conversations). Club flags were exchanged and pictures taken. Rotarian Sharon gave the author a ride back to the cruise terminal.
u believe that we have among our members a shoeshiner extraordinaire? When Ellie Patterson first came to Tucson in the mid-eighties, she wanted to do something totally different from her previous career as a high school guidance counselor in Idaho. She took a year off from counseling and right off the bat she and two of her friends biked from Canada to Mexico over a six week period, camping wherever they could find shelter. This obviously prepared her to ride in the El Tour de Tucson representing the Rotary Club of Tucson!
introduced our visitors. We celebrated birthdays for YVONNE ERVIN and new member NANCY PURDIN. JACK MAREK provided a humorous, if partially fictional, introduction of NANCY, who has traveled extensively, including approximately 20 trips to New Zealand. Welcome to the Club NANCY. 
m will ensure that the Car Show will be a great success. 
Last week, we talked about Orville Speedy McPherson's humble beginnings, high school in Yuma and illustrious University of Arizona career. This week we shall see what he did for the rest of his life.
FMAN and BILL ANASTOPOULOS ably handled the auction of several items. BILL MOORE reported our RCOT Facebook page has 500 "likes," and BOB SHAFF promoted the car show with a video featuring (past? Future?) pro basketball prosp
ects JOHN HARLOW, PAT ZUMBUSCH and TED KIRACOFE.
Guy Atchley is approaching three decades as anchor of KGUN 9 News in Tucson. As you may know, Guy enjoys photography, and he is going to share pictures and stories from his series: "Guy Atchley's Arizona". All Arizonans, both old and new, will relish Guy's ability to see things in a different light.
As Sean Miller begins year five at the helm of the University of Arizona men’s basketball program, he does so knowing that his multifaceted approach to building a program has paid lasting dividends in Tucson. The facts certainly justify the assertion: 
pleasure to introduc
e a new member but this week we had two: TED FORSBERG presented GERRY SNELLING, and CHUCK SAWYER introduced us to DARYL ROSS. MARSHALL DENNINGTON and his wife Cathy brought German Rotary Exchange student, Domenik Dresp, who with some prompting claimed PRESIDENT DAVE is his favorite fishing guide. In hon
or of Building Freedom Day, MARCIA KRUMWIEDE asked for volunteers to help with Habitat for Humanity on September 11. BRUCE JACOBS made a call for items to include in the silent auction, held during the Friday night dinner before the car show, and recognized some generous Rotarians: CHRIS EDWARDS, GEORGE DARLING, PAT LENNAN and PRESIDENT DAVE. JOE NEVIN asked for support for a fundraiser for Past District Governor Val Scanlan, who is suffering from an inoperable brain tumor. MARK IRVIN introduced speaker Fletcher McCusker, chairman of the Rio Nuevo District and “one-man wrecking crew” in downtown Tucson, who told us about all of the great new restaurant and entertainment venues opening up there. Thanks to $209 million in private investment since 2008, Tucson is being called the next Austin, Texas. In a good way!
er is going to discuss Rio Nuevo and what is going on downtown. This will include the settlement with the City, the plans for the TCC Arena, the announcement of the new AC Hotel downtown that the District is going to be doing and a slew of other positive notes in that area.
uests introduced by JEFF RONSTADT was District Governo
r NANCY CASSEL, who made a presentation later in the program to CHARLOTTE HARRIS and BOB SHAFF as the “Energizers” of the Rotary Club of Tucson. 
on, our current exchange student, ar
rived in Rio Claro, Brazil on Wednesday, August 7th with her host family, the Mattos. Claudia Mattos stated that she is delighted with Megan's education, kindness and willingness to learn their language. Her daughter, Carol, 18 years of age, and vice president of Rotaract South Rio Claro, speaks fluent English and is teaching Megan how to speak Portuguese. Claudia's son, Gabriel, 5 years of age, is already speaking basic English words with Megan. These photos were taken at the monument of Rotary International, in Guarulhos, S.gif)
obal Polio Eradication Initiative reports that as of August 7, 2013, 177 new cases of Wild Poliovirus have been reported. In 2012, for the same time frame, 94 cases has been reported. This year, cases in the so called endemic countries, Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Nigeria are down from 89 last year in the same time frame to 67.
Harrison Browning, founder and president of Arizona Gear and Manufacturing, came to Tucson from Coffeeville, Kansas in 1948. He had ranked first in his class at Massachusetts Institute of Technology in 1925. After moving to Tucson, Harrison Browning and Arizona Gear formed a business relationship with Hughes Aircraft. Mr. Browning developed a diaphragm controlled breather valve that was used on the Falcon Missile System. These valves allowed Hughes to switch from heavy metal to aluminum in the construction of the missile. This change translated into lower costs to the military and increased efficiency. Arizona Gear also had a business relationship with IBM. 
This week’s meeting will be a Club Assembly for the new Rotary year. This Club Assembly meeting will focus on our committees of the Club and will have presentations by each Director and a review of their committees and respective Chairs. This meeting will also highlight some of our goals for the coming year. We will outline the committees associated with the work of the membership for 2013/2014 that will help us complete this year’s fellowship and service. 
President DAVE GALLAHER called the meeting to order right on time.
am will briefly cover a list of topics that will include:
r goals this year. Just 
0th RCOT meeting, Eric Peng will say goodbye to the Club as he leaves for home. Eric arrived last September from Taipei, Taiwan a young 15 year old looking for adventure through Rotary Youth Exchange. Eric was hosted by Dave and Susan Gallaher, Sally and Ernie Montagne and Casas Adobes Rotary family of Julie Brinks. Eric recently returned from his east coast Rotary tour and a visit to Michigan with his current host family. Eric returns to Taiwan to attend middle school and college and he looks forward to a visit back to Tucson in the future once he completes his college studies. Eric, you will always have a home with the Tucson Rotary Club. Safe travels. 
his in advance of the meeting as Susan and I will be in Portugal at our first Rotary International Convention. We are looking forward to meeting other Rotarians from around the world, and know that it will be a life changing experience. The past year as President Elect has flown by and the excitement of being President of this tremendous group is overwhelming. Two years of President Elect Training (PETS), and other special classes have helped prepare me for the job of President; however, there is nothing like the real thing. We have such a great system of succession in place in our Club. Thank you to all former Presidents for their advice and counsel the past few months, especially to outgoing President Jim and Past President, Scott Vaughn and my mentor, Past President Joni. Jim has had a great year and has accomplished many things. All of our Presidents are tough acts to follow, and Jim has set yet another bar. Our Club is a successful work in progress with lots of tremendous activities that we can be very proud of; particularly, this past year’s Tucson Classics Car Show. We are fortunate, also, as we have a terrific Board this year. Both Phil Gutt and Ellie Patterson return as Treasurer and Secretary, and Jennifer Hoffman will be our Sergeant of Arms.
ur Applicants for the 2013 Community Grants will each present a summary of their 2013 Grant applications. The Club in attendance will then vote for the top two applications who will each receive up to $25,000 of the 2013 Classic Car Show receipts. The ability of the Club to offer two Grants of this size to directly help our Community is why we work so hard on the Car Show. A $25,000 Grant is a budget changing event for local Tucson Charities and your vote will decide to whom the Grants will be awarded. New in 2013 is that no presenter will go away empty handed in that the two lower vote getters will each receive $1,000 from the Club. The Final Four are: 
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the historic fund raising effort at the 1988 Rotary International Convention in Philadelphia, the next step was the actual administration of the Polio Plus eradication effort. After James Bomar's experience in dealing with the Marcos regime in the Philippines, it was apparent that the effort had to be a world wide effort and not an American effort. The main facilitator was the World Health Organization. By launching the Global Polio Eradication Initiative, WHO was able to draw upon global political alliances and past experiences in regions that were not as friendly to the United States and Rotary International as was necessary to get the job done. 
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as first called infantile paralysis. It was first thought to be caused by bacteria. In the late 19th centuries, epidemics spread from Europe to the United States. By 1916, when a polio epidemic struck New York City, the child crippling disease had become a dreaded worldwide scourge. The New York City epidemic spread nationwide and 27,000 children were estimated to have been infected. 7,000 children were killed in this one epidemic. Rotary began to help in the efforts to help the children crippled by this disease early on. The first efforts from Rotary and the scientific community emphasized the aftereffects of Polio. The cause of the disease confounded scientists for almost a century.
troduced visiting Rotarians and Guests. GARY STOE was wished a Happy Birthday. BRUCE RICHARDSON was introduced as a new member by fellow Rotarian CHARLOTTE HARRIS. TOM ANDREWS provide a slide show of the RCOT Grand Canyon Hike, CHARLOTTE HARRIS gave an update on the Internal Foundation and MARCIA KRUMWIEDE updated us on what Rotaract is doing.
r Don Rollings is a native Tucsonian. After completing junior high, his parents, Kelly and Susan, enrolled him at Andover. After graduation from Andover, Don went to Princeton and graduated with a degree in Romance Languages. He met his wife Nan there and after graduation, they returned to Tucson. Kelly told Don he could have one day off and then she expected him to begin work in the newest family business. The year was 1975.
Greg Byrne, Vice President for Athletics at the University of Arizona, will give the status of Arizona Athletics. Greg Byrne was named Arizona’s 11th Director of Athletics in March 2010. Prior to coming to Arizona, Byrne was Mississippi State University’s Director of Athletics, where he was the youngest top current athletic administrator in the Southeastern Conference and the youngest to lead an athletic program at the NCAA Division I-A level. He started out his career at MSU in June 2006 as Associate Athletic Director for External Affairs. 
os to the club who donated $382 to help our aspiring college grads.
THANK YOU .... THANK YOU .... THANK YOU .... THANK YOU!
What an honor to sit down with Frank Zunno, RCoT Rotarian of 23 years, at Beyond Bread on this beautiful, sunny Tucson April morning. I have asked Frank to provide me with some memoirs that would enable us to celebrate and acknowledge his 90th birthday. It is apparent that Frank’s memoirs need more than just one breakfast and require several “readings.” Joe Nevin and Jerry Harris have given me some suggestions and perspectives. Bob Shaff felt it appropriate to publish two or three “chapters” on Frank; “World War II” is the first. 
ow Electronic Personal Health Records can transform health and safety for individuals and business employees in the Tucson community. We’ll demonstrate how easy this technology is to obtain and to use, and give concrete examples why it is truly the future of healthcare. The owners of a new PHR called GoPHR, will also explain why they chose to develop and launch their business in Tucson. 
der was born in rural Virginia. She moved to Arizona when she was four. Her father had returned from service in the Navy during World War II to find jobs scarce. Like many returning servicemen, he had to leave home and search for work. He found work in the construction industry in Arizona. He brought his family with him and they lived a fast paced and fast moving life. They lived in a trailer and Suzanne's father soon gained distinction building roads. Suzanne remembers going to six different schools in the first grade. Her early memories include desert adventures with her older brother, rattlesnakes, and tarantulas. Curiosity was an early personality trait. Fear was not.
Chief Master Sergeant Dawna M. Cnota is the Command Chief Master Sergeant for the 355th Fighter Wing at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Ariz. She advises the installation commander on matters influencing the health, morale, welfare, readiness and effective utilization of more than 4,000 enlisted Airmen. Chief Cnota is also the installation functional manager for the base's 26 first sergeants and serves on committees developing and implementing Air Force policies and programs that positively impact the quality of life for more than 9,000 Airmen, civilian employees and family members who work and live on the installation.
saved the best wisdom for last: Leave it (the earth) better then you found it. 
After lunch, JUDY KEAGY introduced guests and visiting Rotarians. We celebrated birthdays with ELLEN WHEELER, DICK DOBRIN, and JAY ZUCKER. DICK shared a great quote about birthdays, “Today is the oldest you’ve ever been and the youngest you’ll ever be.” Have to think about that one for a moment…. 
he people you meet who recognize and respect the wheel of Rotary which I always wear. We spent one day in the Winelands outside of Cape Town where we had a most incredible wine and food experience. Cape Town and the Winelands are recognized around the world for their culinary experiences and the many fine wines that come from that area. I only wish I had my wine expert pal Jerry Harris there with me while tasting these great wines. We did make up a meeting in Blouberg (suburb) just outside of Cape Town and we were treated so wonderfully by the 30 member club. Yes, I did win their nightly raffle of a great bottle of wine and if they had had a mean SA like our Kevin Wong, it would have been expensive. Their SA was taking the night off. 
HUGH THOMPSON for his help during her recent illness. IRENE made a generous donation in HUGH’s name. 
m the time he conceived our trip, made the reservations, got us in shape to hike, prepared us for the best (and the worst) and then took us down and up—20 down, 20 up. Thanks to PP Hugh Thompson and Pat Heath, The Topsiders had great hiking and much “interesting” entertainment.
ch of you, my Rotary brothers, better. Tom Andrews gets a big group hug for putting it all together. Joining the Hiking Group is the best thing I have done in Rotary - see you on the trail soon! 
bly Heidinger’s love of Arizona is as deep as her roots; the town of Sedona was named for her great-grandmother, Sedona Schnebly. For more than 30 years, Lisa has been a journalist, finding and recording Arizona’s stories, first as a newspaper and television reporter, then as a columnist and author. She has written seven books about aspects of Arizona, the last one being the history of Make-A-Wish. 
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grown into a global network of 1.2 million men and women. The main goal of our organization is the eradication of polio. The global effort started in 1985. Since then 2.5 billion children have been immunized in 122 countries. Most continents are polio free today. There are only three polio endemic countries left in the world. The three countries that remain are Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Nigeria. Three countries where polio advocates and health professionals are at risk because of political opposition. On March 14, Bill and Melinda Gates and many other national figures from all walks of life gathered on the steps of our Nation's Capitol to underscore their, and Rotary's commitment to this program. 
The March 20, 2013 meeting of the Rotary Club of Tucson was called to order by President JIM LUBINSKI. MARCIA KRUMWIEDE gave the invocation and KEVIN WONG led us in a hearty, but respectful, rendition of our National Anthem. DENNIS DRISCOLL introduced our guests and visiting Rotarians. We then honored four Rotarians for birthdays. On a sad note, MAGGIE KOSINSKI (March 3) announced she was moving to South Carolina in the near future. You will be missed, Maggie. Past President JON WANG (March 15) smiled broadly when President Jim mentioned he was a Princeton graduate. As well he should. PAULINE HECHLER (March 21), gave us seven quotes to live by. DOT KRET (March 21), gave a spirited rap in which she expressed her happiness at being a member of our club. 
ing next week will be an evening mixer at Barrio Brewery from 5:30 to 8:00 pm. PAT ZUMBUSCH introduced Mike Fader of the Tucson Padres who gave a short talk emphasizing the Padres schedule and our Car Show Ticket Sales Team's efforts at many of the games. Michelle Fox, of Rotaract, was recognized and gave a short speech outlining fundraising activities by this organization of young professionals. Past President, EMERY BARKER introduced Jim Wells as our speaker. Jim is with the First Tee of Tucson and is a volunteer coach. The First Tee of Tucson is an organization founded in 1997 to promote interest in golf in young people across our nation. Clubs and other equipment are donated and children as young as five can join. Children with special needs are welcomed. In Tucson, the First Tee is located at El Rio on Speedway. The First Tee in Tucson gets 75% of its funding from the Match Play Tournament and the Conquistadores. Jim emphasized that the First Tee is mainly interested in teaching nine core values to the children as they develop their swings. 
cson Classics Car Show ticket sales effort received a jumpstart due to the efforts of Bookmans and Jim Lubinski. We were invited to sell tickets at this premier event by Bookmans. The event was held on Saturday, March 9, 2013 and Sunday, March 10, 2013. Despite rain and cold winds on Saturday, 808 tickets were sold for the two day Festival. $4,057 were collected in ticket sales and unsolicited donations. Our goal for future years will be 1,000 plus tickets sold. This was our first year to be a part of the Festival of Books.
ch golf on TV are somewhat familiar with The First Tee and their national programs due to the many ad spots during the tournaments. However, since most do not watch golf on TV as a regular habit, the message is not getting out as much as we would like. The First Tee of Tucson is doing amazing things in this community and we are anxious to increase our awareness. 
f, you cannot imagine playing without using our Nine Core Values---Honesty, Courtesy, Integrity, Responsibility, Confidence, Perseverance, Judgment, Sportsmanship, and Respect. As we play golf, the coaches weave into the conversations messages about how these same traits apply to living a contributing life. 
ybe I should be a tad more formal and respectful, but Bob Shaff really doesn't mind being called either PowerPoint Bob or Mr. PowerPoint. Go ahead. He is capable of finding humor in many places, including himself. Bob was president of the Rotary Club of Tucson during the period July 1, 2003 through June 30, 2004. When I interviewed him after a recent meeting, he began by showing me color photographs of his Board of Directors: Dan Chambers, Joni Condit, Roger Harwell, Mark Irvin, Jim Sumwalt, and Frank Zunno. They were a tremendous help during his year of service. 
orvette convertible greeted us as we entered the Doubletree – yes, it’s Car Show time again! Following the pledge by CLEM LESLIE, the leading of the song by LESLIE GALLOWAY, and the introduction of guests by BOBBY LARSON, JOE PENNINGTON celebrated his birthday by being the first to buy 2013 Car Show tickets, 50 for Reading Seed and 50 for Davis-Monthan. Fellow birthday celebrant TED FORSBERG thanked PAT LENNAN for his strong influence on his 3rd grade experience, all 3 years of it. Excellent raffle prizes prompted lavish spending on tickets, and MARCIA GILL, ROGER HARWELL, KEN FLOWER, YVONNE ERVIN and new member THERESA LIVERZANI-BAKER walked away w
ith prizes. President-elect-elect MARY MARTIN introduced THERESA, executive director of Youth on Their Own, who brings an Italian flair to the Club. DARRELL STEWART threatened us with a $25 fine for the scholarship cups if we miss the March 27th members-only mixer at Barrio Brewery. Keeping the Car Show mojo going, 2013 Chair CHUCK SAWYER shared his vision for a remarkable Car Show: make the show better, easier, more profitable and more fun. He thanked President JIM LUBINSKI and Bookman’s for getting us into the Festival of Books to kick off ticket sales and car procurer MIKE ANDERSON for this year’s beauty. BRUCE TUNZE and BILL MOORE are looking for sponsorship contacts – empty your Rolodex! Resident Club Rapper DOT KRET introduced guest speaker Sharon Kha, who shared her experience with Parkinson’s Disease in an eye-opening and inspirational presentation, ending with a rap that brought the room to its feet. Then President JIM “rapped” it up with our traditional toast.
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was hosted by JIM LUBINSKI and had Capt. David Azuelo with two of his staff members, along with Richard Nassi, PAT ZUMBUSCH, EMERY BARKER and PETER AKMAJIAN. JILL MADDEN and RICK WELCH were recognized for their trips around the sun. IRENE DECKER is in our thoughts and prayers and we wish her a speedy recovery. Notes were collected to pass her way. KEVIN WONG stepped in to introduce guests and visiting Rotarians. We thank each guest for sharing their lunch hour with us. Hirsch Shoes was in the local rag again and fined accordingly. $100 was collected for charity and posterity. ROGER HARWELL introduced Dana Dobbins, who is a Rotary scholarship recipient for the last three years. The program gives $2,000 a year to 12 students at the Uof A and $800 to a student at PCC. The cups on the table make a big difference in many young people’s lives. 
ly the proximity to Mexico. GARY HIRSCH reminded folks of the speed dating session (R date) on 3/7/13 at the Viscount Hotel for business networking. Register before 3/1/13 to get in free. The purpose is to let Rotary members do business with Rotary members. BOB SHAFF has a great deal on tickets to the Dback game on 3/17 starting at 1:05 (St. Patrick’s Day). 
music have to do with Parkinson’s disease? It could be part of the process of changing the very structure of the brain when the brain has been damaged from trauma or disease. One doctor refers to Parkinson’s as “the poster child for mind over matter” because it seems so responsive to the exercise of will power. Ms. Kha describes her battle with Parkinson’s Disease and a surprising outcome.
Last Friday, President-elect Dave, Dorinna and I attended the Phoenix 100 meeting and then met with their president, president-elect and executive director for several hours after. It was a very productive visit. Our intent was to share how our club operates and discuss common challenges facing both clubs. In addition to these topics, we wanted to explore ways in which our clubs could work together in the future. Prior to our departure, past president Bob Shaff dug up an old trophy that used to travel between the clubs for an attendance competition. We have held this since it was last awarded in 2003 and it has a history dating back to 1930. It sparked a lot of interest at the meeting so we have agreed to expand on the original idea and create our own “Territorial Cup” competition between the clubs. The details have not been firmly established yet but, the award will likely be based upon a combined group of performance areas including, attendance, membership growth and annual RI giving. We will start this off with the new Rotary year under President-elect Dave. More details to follow.
zuelo is the Information Sharing (CopLink) Node Administrator for AzLink, an information sharing consortium of Arizona law enforcement agencies using CopLink technology to leverage information sharing capabilities statewide and within the larger Southwest border region. As the administrator, he serves 22 Southern Arizona agencies, managing the dissemination of both criminal and intelligence related information, as well as all-hazards criminal and border related activity in Southern Arizona. Having recently expanded its footprint, AzLink is presently connected to similar CopLink Nodes in California, Oregon, Colorado and Nevada, and will soon be socializing with Texas and New Mexico to connect all contiguous counties sharing a border between the United States and Mexico. AzLink has been identified as a “best practice” by the Intelligence and Analysis Office at the Department of Homeland Security.
had the pleasure of sitting next to Stan Cramer (who joined our club April 8, of 2010) on several occasions. I asked Stan what he did for a living and he told me he was in the automotive business. It turns out that Stan was being very modest and when I probed a little further, I found that Stan owned an Oldsmobile, Honda, Triumph dealership and the Budget Rent a Car by Harrisburg International Airport, in Middletown, PA. Well Stan began to weave a story and I sat in awe and listened as Stan told me about how his father had gotten started in Pennsylvania having a car dealership in Steelton, PA across a canal from the steel mill. Well the business moved and evolved into the Budget Rent A Car. Stan began to pursue the airport parking business before the airport industry deregulated and he catered to travel agents initially offering them free parking. He said that his son now is running the business and has branched off into not only car rental, but car sales, airport parking and auto repairs and a body shop. Stan travels back east periodically to call on the travel agents and maintain a relationship with them.
in the day's program, show. JOHN COUSINS introduced our guests and a few visiting Rotarians. The program allowed one minute for our lone Birthday celebration. KEN LIGHT directs community and Social Services for the Jewish Community Center and plays golf, racquetball and rides his bike in the mountains. KEN joined Rotary in '91. Without a blare of trumpets, ELLIE PATTERSON introduced our newest, full-fledged Rotarian, LINDSAY GANIN. She's the retail relations manager for Compass Bank. Besides banking deposits, loans and special accounts, ask Lindsay about 
fly fishing, hiking and cooking. KEVIN WONG, Sergeant-at-Arms, then nailed JEFF RONSTADT and LEE AITKIN each for one hundred bucks for their notable deeds. DAVE GALLAHER announced the World Peace Forum for District 5500; MARCIA KRUMWIEDE invited Rotarians to the Book Cleaning Project; and LISA FOGEL announced the next Wine Tasting Committee Meeting. The chocolate part of the program came after DAVID PASHKOW introduced Barbara Fox, president of Chocolate Fox Foundation. Her company manufactures artisan chocolates and donates 100% of the profits to animal charities. In an interesting program, Barbara tracked her venture from software guru at Apple Macintosh Microsoft to chocolatier at Chocolate Fox Foundation. A few dressed for the current rodeo festivities. DAN GUARE wore his best two liter Stetson. He said it was too windy for his 10-gallon cowboy hat. JON WANG looked spiffy in his Buffalo Bill Ringmaster attire. KANDIE VACTOR, scuba diver, sparkled in her beautiful turquoise and silver rings, bracelets and necklace. The meeting ended when JIM lowered the gavel after his toast, credited to Samuel Johnson, "Nothing will ever be attempted if all possible objections must first be overcome." 
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. ALLYN BULZOMI made his wife, Susan, a PHF and SUSAN MOORE VAULT had DON RAWLINGS substitute for her husband Frank, who received his PHF. KANDIE VACTOR made a Happy Jackson announcement recommending a landscaper. GARY HIRSCH announced a District 5500 Business Network Event, to be held at the Viscount Suites at 5pm on March 7. FREE if you sign up by 
March 1st. MARCIA KRUMWIEDE asked for volunteers to clean books at the Reading Seed offices this Saturday from 9am-Noon. VICKIE JACOBS bestowed “Blue” badges to YVONNE ERVIN, LINDSAY GANIN, and JILL MADDEN. DARRELL STEWART announced that LISA FOGLE is the new Wine Committee Chair. Dr. Len Jessup, Dean of the UA’s Eller College of Business, updated us on the programs the College is involved in that will give back to the community and the state. He spoke of where they go next; how they are positioning to attract and retain good faculty; and the newest program - Tech Launch - to inspire new technology businesses, new entrepreneurial research, and spin out businesses that will hopefully remain in Arizona. Several of the University’s departments will collaborate to ensure the program’s success. JIM LUBINSKI concluded our meeting with the Valentine toast: “Money can’t buy love, but it does improve your bargaining position!”
President of Chocolate Fox Foundation, worked closely with both Steve Jobs and Bill Gates and in the software industry for thirty-five years. After retiring from Microsoft in 2004, she followed her former boss and Microsoft CTO (Nathan Mhyrvold) into his new company, Intellectual Ventures. 
dge and song. Then it was time for fellowship and a chicken lunch "Radisson style" before JEFF RONSTADT had a tricky time with the introductions of guests and visiting Rotarians. Our birthday boys for the week, TIM PUNTENNEY, PETE RAGUZIN and the recently retired DON CLARK, were up next. Those 3 have a combined total of almost 91 years of being Rotarians!!! After that, PRES JIM made a very sp
ecial Member Emeritus presentation to SONNY SOLOT whose wife and daughter were there to join our whole club in giving him a standing ovation. We love you SONNY! Sergeant at Arms KEVIN WONG was back with us this week for some announcements. First he thanked DAVE PASHKOW for filling in for him last week. Then CAMERON MOORE made a limited time offer regarding Bulletin/Website sponsorships. Lastly, PRES JIM reminded us to check our inboxes for the first email monthly billing. After that YVONNE ERVIN introduced the speaker, DR. KAREN SEAT, who is the Associate Professor and Director of the U of A Religious Studies Program. Her topic was "The Role of Religion in American Politics", which garnered quite a few questions at the end. PRES JIM closed the meeting with a quote from Yogi Berra - "If you don't know where you are going, you'll wind up some place else". With that, the meeting ended and we all went some place else. :-)
e business, in 1923. Hal went into the family business and stayed until 1994 when he retired. Larry became a lawyer and still has an active practice specializing in Estates and Trusts. In the early days, the family business went beyond selling automobile tires. They expanded their business supplying mines with specialty tires and corrosion resistant rubber products to help line the many tanks in the Arizona mining industry. Harold remained active in Rotary for many years and his sons followed him into the club. 
ection of Mike Anderson, over $34,000 was raised. Larry says this was a landmark event since it was the most ambitious fundraising effort to date by the Club. Also during his term, Larry discovered a transplanted member from Chicago, Leland Case, who had never achieved a Paul Harris Fellow during his many years of membership. Larry promptly fined him $1,000 and the fine was paid. Larry also prides himself on many other innovative ways he found to raise money through fines. 
Jessup was recruited from the Kelley School of Business at Indiana University to head the Department of MIS at Washington State University (WSU). During more than a decade at WSU, he served in a variety of leadership roles, including Dean of the College of Business, Vice President of University Development, and President of the WSU Foundation. His most recent roles were Chair of the Department of Entrepreneurship and Information Systems and Director of the Center for Entrepreneurial Studies.
ed the meeting and introduced PAULINE HECHLER for the invocation. Leading the pledge and song was LESLIE GALLOWAY, who brought down the house with "This Land is Your Land". The words to the song were on the screen, which helped many of us to sing the right words. A moment of silence was given for BOBBY LARSON'S mother, who passed last week. Members: DON'T FORGET THE SCHOLARSHIP CUPS!! STACIA DECKER, a busy new member, introduced a number of guests and visiting Rotarians. President Elect, DAVE GALLAHER, introduced new member KEITH WIEGAND, who manages Clyde Wanslee - Ugly but Honest Car Dealership. DAVE GALLAHER has personally bought 16 cars from KEITH. Welcome KEITH!
t at Arms, KEVIN "Always Right" WONG. DAVE introduced busy new member BILL MOORE. BILL in turn introduced car show Co-Chair MARIANNE FRIETAS and TOM STRASBURG. Our super team this year set a new record of $119,000. A check was presented to Debbie Conover, Development Officer and Debbie Adams, Chief Operating Officer of Pima Council on Aging --$12,500 for a total of $25,000. A check for $12,500 to Kelly Fryer, Executive Director, YWCA and CHERYL HOUSE Board Member, to the YWCA for a total of $25,000, and a check to Reading Seed for $62,814.23 was presented to Betty Stauffer, Executive Director, Literacy Connects (Parent company). Now in our 7th year, we have donated $346,124.19 to Reading Seed. 
Susie Huhn is the Executive Director of Casa de los Ninos a nationally accredited organization providing parent education and support, child welfare and behavioral health services in Pima County. Casa de los Ninos has a staff of 280 employees and over 100 volunteers.
ned Past President JIM MURPHY for a feature in Tucson Lifestyle magazine that featured JIM and the Pima Council on Aging. JIM made a donation toward Paul Harris fellowships for all three of his grandchildren. 
Badges: MARIAN ABRAM and returning GLENN EWING, who will give all of us, except for look-alike President Jim, a 25% discount on computer repairs exempting printers. MATT BLAIR introduced Alex Huhn representing the Cantina Cup Int’l Fishing Tournament in San Carlos, MX who gave the $1,000 in proceeds of the tournament in appreciation of and for our work in San Carlos. The speaker was late, so President JIM did some “soft shoe” and shared the agenda for our Club’s Board meeting tomorrow regarding membership retention and recruitment and the creation of a task force to be chaired by GARY HIRSCH. Still filling time, 
first for this rural school. The three schools— LOS RANCHITOS, LA MANGA, and SANTA CLARA— filled two days of gift giving and cheer giving to approximately 500 children (give or take a few hundred). Receiving 500 ROTARY MOMENTS is pretty “awesome,” as the NEW GENERATION would say.
The El Camino de Santiago is a journey walked by Catholics, Christians and others from all over the world for more than 1,500 years. There are a number of established routes leading to Santiago from all directions. The route I have chosen begins in Leon, Spain, and covers approximately 240 miles of countryside to Santiago. From September 23 to October 13, I will embark on El Camino. One thing I know for sure: I am not in this alone. My wife and I have been supporters of the Tucson community for years, and we think this journey can bring attention to local causes that help so many. Each day, I will dedicate my walk to one charity. Here I will document this journey and post status updates and photos to bring visibility to these groups that do so much for our community. 
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Just when you thought the elections were over, we still have an important one to decide. Last week you were introduced to the slate of candidates who will stand for election to our club board with their 2 year terms beginning next July. The strong field includes Angela Baurley, Matt Blair, Jennifer Hoffman, David Pashkow, Darrell Stewart and Kevin Wong. Thank you to the six of you for agreeing to serve if elected. More information on each candidate will be distributed at our next meeting with the vote to take place on the 21st. Following the election of our three new directors, next on the agenda will be the announcement of our new PEE in early December. Please make certain you will be at our 11/21 meeting to cast your vote. .jpg)
What a great program and turn out we had last week. I was told by one of the speakers before the event started that there was “quite a buzz” about this program in the community. We had around 150 guests, many of whom experienced Rotary and our club for the first time. I think we left a good first impression! Now we have to follow through with those that attended to cultivate any prospective new members that may have been in the group. Congratulations to all of the team that helped put this together and to those of you who brought guests to show off the best Rotary Club in the World! 
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What a great presentation from former member Dr. Peter Smith last Wednesday. It’s amazing what is being done at the U of A. And the fact that it should bring $200 million to the local economy is an added bonus. .jpg)
What a great presentation from former member Dr. Peter Smith last Wednesday. It’s amazing what is being done at the U of A. And the fact that it should bring $200 million to the local economy is an added bonus. 
It’s finally here (almost), the 2012 Tucson Classics Car Show. So many members have been putting in long hours preparing for our club’s signature event. The Classics Car Show provides more positive publicity for our club and the good work we do than almost all of our other projects combined. It is the highest profile endeavor we undertake each year. Without the strong participation of members, this event would not be possible.
Last week was 
Thanks for all you have done, and all that you will do to make this year’s Tucson Classics Car Show 
In 11 seasons as the head coach at Arizona, Andy Lopez has reestablished the Wildcats as a national power on the diamond. Since taking over in 2002, Lopez has guided the program to a pair of trips to the College World Series, highlighted by the school’s fourth national championship in 2012.
Prior to statehood, a group of Tucson business leaders met at the Santa Rita Hotel every week for lunch and to hear speakers. University faculty and city and county officials bolstered the group. Many of the early attendees were members of Tucson and Pima County's pioneer families. The group was called The Tucson Luncheon Club. It passed resolutions and discussed civic issues. This group started out as a loosely knit cadre of citizens but by 1921, Jack Lyman, an architect, and Andy Martin, a druggist, were asked to seek out a national organization for the Luncheon Club to affiliate with. 
We have 2 more Padres games this week (see Jerry Harris), several Car Shows at Little Anthony’s (see David Pashkow), the Greek Festival (September 20-23), Oktoberfest (9/27-30), and the SAHBA Home Show (10/5-7) ahead of us as ticket-selling opportunities.
It is my role as well as all district leaders responsibility and desire to be of service to you and your club. The job of the governor is to facilitate you accomplishing your club goals. I promise you to do what I can to make this next year successful for you and your club.
honored for their birthdays and each responded with inspirational words and large donations. MIKE ORCUTT introduced new member RICK WELCH. BILL HARLOW gave a thorough but short explanation of the proposed new bylaws. A vote was called and the new bylaws were passed by acclimation. At this point JIM LUBINSKI moderated the club Assembly wherein committee chairpersons gave short and informative rundowns of the purpose and direction of their committee. Sergeant at Arms, KEVIN WONG, monitored each presentation and waved a red flag if any one went over the limit. Few did and those who did were right on the line. The assembly moved briskly and when President JIM LUBINSKI gave the closing toast and quoted Albert Einstein, we were still on schedule. And the chicken enchiladas were a pleasant surprise. 
Don’t know if you all know how interesting one of our Rowdy Table regulars truly is, so I’m going to share his life’s story with you. Gerry Hallowell was born in Boston, in May of 1939. He attended Milton Academy and Harvard University. After college, he worked for Proctor and Gamble from 1961 – 1968 in the Consumer Products Division followed by a variety of financial firms after that. Gerry then got a Master’s Degree in Mental Health Psychology from Cambridge College in 1992. He worked in this field from 1992 through 2002, after which he retired. It was in 1995 that Gerry and his dear wife, Elinor, moved to Tucson while doing field work for his degree in mental health, stopping short of his final push for a PhD degree in this field. Gerry’s concept in donating money to Rotary has been to provide scholarships to foreign students that will allow them to see our way of life, which he did. He also spent lots of time in the field that involved physical involvement until his health began to change. 
I do Corporate Marketing for Copper State Communications. We are a Tucson based and headquartered business telecommunications company with offices in Phoenix and Flagstaff as well. Copper State Communications provides businesses across Arizona a “one stop shop” for all of their Telecommunications and IT requirements. We sell and service systems from Avaya, ShoreTel, Mitel, and Toshiba. Our business partnerships with CenturyLink, TW Telecom, Integra and 60+ additional telecommunications providers allows us to assist in selecting the best, most cost effective services for their phone and internet needs. Our Certified Network Engineers can assist with all of your IT networking requirements and we are part of the ACN (Apple Certified Network). My job includes getting our company name and story out to businesses throughout the state.
After a lunch of the blackest salmon any of us had ever seen and a Waldorf salad that went untouched by all, Big BOB LOGAN introduced the newest Paul Harris Fellows with CHARLOTTE HARRIS distributing the awards. Two members were giving their children Paul Harris fellowships. For her birthday, PHIL GUTT gave a Paul Harris to his daughter, Victoria “Tori” Gutt, an athlete and a scholar. MARIANNE FREITAS’ children, Michele and Matt received the honor in absentia. While PHIL and MARIANNE received small trinkets from BOB, PAT ZUMBUSCH received the best of BOB’S largesse with a 2001 Final Four basketball signed by Lute Olson, and two 1997 newspapers commemorating the Wildcat’s Final Four win. No doubt PAT will be making a generous donation to the UA College of Science in the near future. All the early August babies must have gone away to cooler climes so we had no birthday celebrants. 
Last Friday night, a team of 7 Rotarians (Jerry Harris, Bobby Larson, David Pashkow, Don Rollings, Bruce Tunze, and Mike Orcutt) sold 173 tickets at the Padres game, 
Club Assembly is this week. We will have presentations by all six directors and their committees. Check out the President's Letter for more information.
Scott Baxter has been a professional photographer for more than 25 years. His fine art images have been exhibited in the Phoenix Art Museum, the Tucson Museum of Art, the Desert Caballeros Western Museum, and the Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport Museum. His work is in numerous permanent collections including the Desert Caballeros Western Museum, and the City of Scottsdale Public Art Program.
Most of you have heard how the Car Show was created. President-elect at the time, ARNIE JACOBSEN was given the task by then club President JON WANG to come up with a signature fundraising event to support our commitment to Reading Seed. Arnie headed a search committee of about 25 fellow Rotarians who decided on a car show, after which Arnie began the task of putting together a team to create the event. Arnie was the chair for two years, the first year at the same time he served as your president while working full time running his food services businesses, Arizona Sunland Foods and Lucky Wishbone. 
MIKE DEVRIES introduced our guests and visitors. A special guest was Miss Arizona, Piper Stoeckel. No wonder all the men sitting at that table had goofy grins on their faces. She was a guest of RON OXMAN and they together serve on the board of the Southern Arizona Children’s Advocacy Center.
The program focused on our Rotary Youth Exchange and became an emotional and compelling way to encourage members to become involved. The Club, in keeping with our enhanced use of technology, ran videos from two former exchange students. It’s too bad these YouTube videos always have the production quality of a hostage video, but they get the point across. They did however lack the impact of the personal delivery of our returning student from Brazil, Leticia Secco.
This past week your new board met for the first time. It was a great meeting and many new and exciting ideas were discussed. The energy and focus which we present should help make this a great year for our club. We will continue to present some of these ideas and changes over the next several months and welcome your comments and feedback.
Havasupai Canyon is a legendary spot in northern Arizona (part of the Grand Canyon) and should be on everyone’s bucket list to see the tallest waterfalls in Arizona and visit the Havasupai Indian reservation. The hike is 11 miles to the campground and takes about four hours. The trip out takes about 5-6 hours depending on how quick you make it up the last switchbacks. The trip here is nothing short of spectacular. It is the perfect tune-up for making the Grand Canyon hike next Spring. 
PRESIDENT LUBINSKI started the meeting at high noon and joining him on the podium at his right were the birthday folks, BRUCE JACOBS, MARY MARTIN and KATIE DUSENBERRY, sitting at a table below the podium. Welcome back Katie! It’s nice to see you again. On Jim’s left sat the speaker, Bryan Martyn and JIM RONSTADT, who would introduce Bryan as the Executive Director for the Arizona State Parks.
Goodsite is making calendars and donating portions of the sales to the Annual Car Show, and speaking of the Car Show, BOB SHAFF, gave the audience a great update on where the club is on ticket sales. 2,000 tickets have been sold so far, 9% of the target!
2012 TCCS tickets sales through Wednesday, July 25th total 2,669…over 11% of our goal of selling 22,500 tickets prior to the day of the show. 
Dave Gallaher has been a member of the Youth Exchange committee for several years and has hosted three RYE students. Dave, member Tom Andrews (District 5500 Outbound RYE Chair) and Leticia Secco (RYE student District 4430 Sao Paulo Brazil) will share their experiences with the Youth Exchange program that is a life changing event for all involved. 
This week is the official kick-off for car show ticket sales. Bob Shaff and his team have a great presentation planned for us so be ready to be motivated to sell, sell, sell! I encourage you to get an early start and don’t be satisfied selling only your initial allotment. We have plenty more! Remember, each member is responsible for the tickets given to them. You must either sell them and turn in the proceeds or return any unsold at the end of the selling period. There will be many opportunities to participate in group sales at special events held around town between now and October. If you are uncomfortable asking others to buy your tickets, these events will give you a great way to help out. Personally, I do not have a problem asking friends and family when I believe in the cause. 
Greg Foster is a Managing Partner of FC Tucson and heads up FC Tucson's civic and media relationships. Greg is also on the Board for the Ft. Lowell Soccer Shootout. His vision, as well as the mission of FC Tucson, is to expand, enhance and market the benefits soccer will provide to the Tucson community in terms of community recognition, sports (spring training and eventually professional soccer) opportunities, as well as increased tourism and business revenues.
Is the year over already? President JONI CONDIT called the meeting to order and received a round of applause for her last meeting. KEN LIGHT gave the invocation and DAN GUARE, 
prior to leading the pledge and song, as well as cheers for the championship UA baseball team, reminded JONI that this is only her last meeting as president. CHRIS EDWARDS made our guests feel welcome, despite tripping over a few name pronunciations, and birthday greetings were extended to ERNIE MINCHELLA, MONTE CLAUSEN and MATT BLAIR. Sergeant-at-Arms MATT presented President JONI with flowers on behalf of the club. Past President BILL HARLOW introduced our newest member, his son JOHN HARLOW, who comes from a long line of Rotarians, many named JOHN. RICHARD WHITE presented the Four-Way Test Award to long-time Red Cross and Miracle Square volunteer Lynn Sagara, wife of MIKE SAGARA. Sergeant-at-Arms-Elect KEVIN WONG got a jump on the new year by introducing announcers TOM ANDREWS, who promoted the March 2013 Grand Canyon hike and topside activities, and President-Elect JIM LUBINSKI, who gently broke the news that dues will increase slightly next year. President JONI gave heartfelt and emotional thanks to her mentors, board and fellow club 
members before introducing District Governor Michael Drake, who bestowed special recognition on members BOB ERNSTEIN for chairing the District 5500 Conference in 2011, SALLY MONTAGNE for heading up District 5500’s grants committee, GARY HIRSCH for leading a successful Rotary cycling team that raised $100,000 in El Tour de Tucson, Assistant District Governor CHARLOTTE HARRIS, and President JONI. SUSAN MOORE VAULT introduced speaker Robert Hirsh, retired Pima County Public Defender and SID HIRSH’S brother, who shared stories and thoughts on the criminal justice system. 
New Pres. JIM LUBINSKI opened the meeting by asking SUZANNE LAWDER to give the invocation which included inspirational words from Daniel Webster. Suzanne was followed by ERNIE MINCHELLA who led the pledge & song accompanied by GARY GETHMANN’S talents on the piano. ERNIE also included a special greeting to the club, in honor of Pres. LUBINSKI, not in his usual Italian but in Polish – “Dzień Dobry” meaning “Good Day.” BRUCE TUNZE did the introduction of guests and visitors. The birthday club included GEORGE DARLING who gave us an education of what to
ok place in his birth year, 1962. Followed by CINDY GODWIN, who said she was a “young woman” when she joined the club and KEVIN WONG expressed his appreciation of the entire member’s support. KEVIN recognized JIM as a member of the birthday club however he deferred his two minutes for later in the meeting. MIKE ORCUTT introduced new member MARIAN ABRAMS, a graduate of Case Western University. MARIAN is a practicing Attorney who specializes in business law. Sergeant of Arms KEVIN WONG had a two page article featuring member SID HIRSH selling a pair of shoes to his brother. SID was a good sport and gave the club a four digit check for his fine. Pres. JIM began his remarks with a Thai greeting of respect to the club. He provided a PowerPoint which featured his experience at the Rotary International Conference in Bangkok Thailand. Pres. JIM would like the theme of the upcoming year to be Peace through Service. He presented his goals for the year: 100% club participation in the car show, emphasis on an International project, encourage Rotarians to consider designating their birthday donations and fines to the Rot
ary Annual Fund, continued support of the Polio Plus program by supporting the riders that ride for Polio Plus, celebrating our successes with a special recognition of JOHN MCCALEB for donating the time of his band. He asks the club to keep an open mind to change as he strives to make improvements in the meeting experience, and last but not least he encourages members to move around at the meetings and get to know all the members. He concluded with a fitting toast “The human mind is like a parachute, it works best when it is open.” 
Our Rotary District 5500 Group Study Exchange committee is seeking applications from Rotarians to lead this year’s GSE team on a 30-day visit to District 4540 in Brazil April 28 to May 28, 2013. Applications are also available for young professionals between ages 25 and 40 who would like to participate as a Group Study Exchange team member. The application forms and additional information can be found at: 
Club members do not have a ticket sales quota.
On July 1st Jim Lubinski became the 92nd President of the Rotary Club of Tucson and was enthusiastically cheered by 160 people at our June 30 Change of Leadership party held at Skyline Country Club. He joined our club on December 3, 2003 sponsored by Ron Oxman. Jim is the CFO for Intergalactic Inc. known to all of us as “Bookmans.” 
When I first started in Rotary, a Red Badge guy, one of the things I looked forward to was coming to the meetings and waiting for the weekly eruption from the northwest table. The Rowdy Table. While I certainly have never been considered shy, I never have mustered the courage to ask if I could sit there. My curiosity got the best of me recently and I am still puzzling over the resulting experience. I asked to meet with three members of the Rowdy Club. Maggie Kosinski, Dan Guare, and Charlie Meaker. 
Maggie said camaraderie was the primary driving force behind the Club. Dan stood up , laughed, and said, "Yeah, that's right, Maggie. Fun and Camaraderie." He then pounded the table. Charlie did not relax his stare. He looked at the three of us and said, emphatically, "We have no purpose." Maggie and Dan looked sheepish and were quiet. I then asked if there were any rules. Maggie and Dan said nothing but looked to Charlie. After an awkward silence, he said,with a gentle snarl, "We got no rules. No rules." I asked if there were any officers or if some one was in charge of orchestrating the weekly eruptions. Once again, silence from Maggie and Dan. From Charlie, furrowed eyebrows and a classic Bill Bellichek stare. "We got no officers. " I then began to see the obvious. Charlie is the leader. Perhaps without an official title. But still the leader of this fluid and often volatile group. Charlie told me he did not know when the Rowdy Club and the Rowdy Table came into existence. Charlie joined the Rotary Club of Tucson in 1982 and he thinks the Rowdy Table was going strong then. Before joining our club in 1982, Charlie was a member of the Nogales, Arizona Rotary Club. He and his wife have lived in Tubac since 1976. He was in Equipment Leasing until his first retirement and now he sells real estate because he thinks it is fun. Charlie was born in Auburn, New York. He has a daughter and two grandchildren. I tried to get Charlie to tell me more about himself and he gave me the Bellichek stare again and left the building. 
Welcome to our Rotary year 2012-2013 themed by International President Sakuji Tanaka as “Peace Through Service.” Your Board of Directors, office staff and I look forward to a great year ahead and are honored to serve as your club’s leadership team for the coming year. Know that we all take our roles seriously and will do our best to ensure proper stewardship of the club. You should know that the entire team will not act simply as place holders of the offices and positions we hold, but rather as agents for constant improvement.
Two weeks ago, your very active and engaged Community Charity Grants Committee, co-chaired by Cindy Godwin and Mike DeVries and overseen by Board Chair Marcia Krumwiede, organized presentations by four local charities who were finalists in two categories for major funding from our 2011 Car Show proceeds. Two finalists each presented in two categories to compete for these funds. The first was in the category of serving seniors in our community and the second was in the area of jobs retraining. After representatives from each charity had ten minutes to make their pitch for their program to club members and to answer questions, you each had the opportunity to vote on your selection for each category.
Hi Everyone, this is the last opportunity you have to participate in a very fun little year-end project of mine! I would really like to get a photo of each of our members that was taken sometime between birth and 19 years of age. You can email them to me or Mary Laughbaum or give them to Mary on Wednesday to scan in and she will return them promptly. I have about 70+ members photos and some of them have some amazing stories associated with them! So, please don't deprive your fellow members of your participation!
The highest honor that our club can bestow upon a member is the Orville McPherson award. For those of you who may not been familiar with this Award it was so named in honor of our late member Orville McPherson who was a charter member of RCoT since its founding April 1, 1921. He was the first secretary and was active in the initial efforts to start Rotary in Tucson. Orville received local and national recognition for his community service which included assisting with the establishment of Tucson's municipal airport and our Veteran's Hospital. He was named Tucson's Bi-Centennial Man of the Year on his birthday in 1976. 
To All Members, past and present, since 1983:
This week, our RCoT Foundation Treasurer, Richard Bratt will be busy wiring $8,228 to the Accra East Rotary Club in Accra, Ghana, West Africa who will then use these funds to make a variety of improvements to St. Kizito's Technical School in Ghana. The funds make up two separate District Simplified Grants which are part of an overall prject to provide classroom furniture, science equipment, and vocational training equipment for a Science Resource Center at this school in the remote village of Mepe, Ghana, West Africa. 
Each time I have the opportunity to write one of these articles, I am more impressed by the depth and diversity of experiences of our members. If you attended our meeting this past week, you heard a bit about our member, Christine Harvey who is celebrating her birthday on June 29th. Christine has had an amazing and interesting career both in the US and abroad in Europe. She joined RCoT on February 13, 2002, sponsored by the late great Billy Joe Varney. Christine and her husband Tom moved to Tucson seeking a warm and friendly place after living in Europe for 23 years. 
esident JONI CONDIT opened her penultimate meeting as president with her usual style and grace. KEITH COBB provided the invocation; GORDON SHAW led the pledge and song. JERRY HARRIS introduced guests.
Justice is administered in the United States through an adversarial system that contemplates that each party have an opportunity to present every part of their case before a judge, jury, and the adverse party. This system presents an opportunity for each side to both present proof and have the quality of that proof examined before an impartial trier of fact.
This past weekend, in Nogales, Sonora, 100 people of all ages received “rough rider” wheelchairs through our international collaboration between the Rotary Club of Tucson and the Nogales Sur Rotary Club. Four RCoT members, Bob Logan, Jim Lubinski, Sally Montagne, and Joni were met at the border by a lovely young woman, Viridiana Aguilar, a 28 year-old computer engineer who joined the Nogales Sur club this past year. She escorted us through the border and we soon realized that we were fortunate to have her with us since none of us spoke fluent Spanish and we were bringing in four wheelchairs that were brought to Tucson to show our club what these chairs were all about. Viri explained that we were Rotarians and the customs official shared that he was a former Rotarian and finally just waved us through.
Harry George has more than 40 years experience in founding, operating and investing in successful rapid growth technology-related companies. He co-founded Solstice Capital in 1995. Solstice is a venture capital fund investing in early-stage life science, information technology and clean tech companies. Solstice is currently managing its second fund ($57 Million) and has invested in a total of 44 companies since inception.
President JONI CONDIT called the meeting to order right on time.
JIM MURPHY, KATHY KITIGAWA, and DOT KRET came up to honor all of the 2011 Car Show student volunteers. Special thanks to Alpha Phi Omega, Assisteens Auxiliary of the Assistance League of Tucson, the University of Arizona Rotaract Club, and Reading Seed.
MATT BLAIR - who handles his duties as Sergeant at Arms with flair and acumen - raffled prizes to fortunate recipients of winning ducats. 
The Club’s strategic plan calls for us to continue or develop projects, like Reading Seed, that make a significant impact in the community. The success of the Tucson Classics Car Show has enabled us to not only meet our commitments to Reading Seed Children’s Literacy Program, but to expand our grantmaking to meet other community needs. 
Those of you who would like to experience the wonders of the Grand Canyon but not exhaust yourselfes going to the bottom with the "buffos" might join Pat Heath and me in exploring all the sights and activities of the rim. Pat and I are working together to put together a list of activities that will be available to us. These could be done singly or together. The dates are March 20th-23rd. leaving for home on the AM of the 24th. 2013. Each individual is responsible for getting their own lodging and time is of the essence. Pat has a comprehensive list of possibilities and can be reached at 990-5820 or (
You just can’t beat Southern hospitality! When it comes to smoky Southern style BBQ and Zinfandel- there’s no stopping Jerry & Audrey Harris. Their Memorial weekend wine event raised $800 for the scholarship fund! This was a record setting event for funds raised at a wine event. More ribs please and I’ll have another glass!
It is that time of year again, when it is too hot to think about doing much except to sit in the pool or inside in the air conditioning! But we have a party planned that will convince you that summer time in Tucson is the place to be! Our annual Change of Administration Party is lined up for Saturday evening, June 30th, at Skyline Country Club. Cocktails will begin at 5:30 p.m. followed by dinner. You can't beat the beautiful view of the city lights and our member, Jesse Thorpe, General Manager of Skyline has developed a wonderful and varied menu.
May is the eleventh month in our Rotary year and so your Board and many of our committees are beginning to wrap up their projects and goals for the year. This month is filled with so many holidays and events including Mothers' Day, graduations, the start of summer weddings, and Memorial Day to name a few, so it is challenging to squeeze in more. 
Some people in life have a harder start in life than others. Some people think they have challenges never realizing how easy they have it. Then there is Mike Sagara, who against all odds, managed to be a real success in life by every definition in spite of a truly hard start. But Mike doesn't complain about it and is very thankful for his life. Mike was born in Chicago, Illinois on May 8, 1948. He was placed in a foster home to be adopted but he wasn't ever adopted. Mike lived in that foster home raised by an African-American family. Sadly, his foster father died at Mike's side of a heart attack when Mike was just three years old. If this wasn't tough enough, his foster mother died of breast cancer when he was twelve. Mike went to live with his foster sister until he was 17, when he enlisted in the Army. 
The good news is that we have our next really fun hike planned for Sunday, May 20th up in the Catalinas... the "Wilderness of Rock Trail". We will meet early in the morning near the intersection of Tanque Verde and Catalina Highway, then carpool to the top of Mt. Lemmon, and hike the trail......but you'll have to read the "evite" on email to get the rest of the story!
Past President, ROGER HARWELL (2005-2006) introduced NEW/RETURNING young member AL GROVE. Al said all of the good things Roger said about him were true and all of the bad things were half true. Welcome back Al Grove! Sergeant at Arms, MATT BLAIR and member JAY PARKER, raffled a number of great items, including a Navy Seal Flag and three Navy Seal Books courtesy of our guest speaker, Jeff, "Swimmer Dude" Utsch. 
The Birthday Gang of ONE was all assembled and leading the way was CHARLIE MEAKER who was wished a Happy Birthday and announced a short leave of absence for surgery and to keep him in our prayers. 
Dr. Curiel spoke of the risk factors and the need for prevention but also a balance in maintaining the vitamin D that is provided to our systems by our exposure to the sun. Prevention and early detection are the main areas that we need to concentrate on and not let anything unusual go undiagnosed. 
On Saturday May 5th, a group of 
Do you know that one of your members lost his hearing in his left ear after falling out of a B-17 Bomber that was mounted on top of a gas station in Portland, Oregon? While this might explain some of his other behaviors, you might be surprised to know that this happened to our member Darrell Stewart. He really didn't offer much more than that, but perhaps we can cajole him into the rest of the story! Some of you do know that Darrell Stewart is the co-chair of our club's Home Hospitality committee with Lisa Fogle and that he has also been actively involved in helping with the planning of wine fellowship gatherings as well. Darrell has been a part of the invocation and environment committees. But what many club members might not know is that Darrell was previously a long time healthcare executive. Darrell graduated from Tulane University in New Orleans with an undergraduate degree in zoological studies. He received his masters in hospital administration (MHA) from the University of Minnesota. 
Last week Sergeant at Arms, Matt Blair, recognized John McCaleb for the various awards that his construction company has recently earned for 2012 CotY Award for Regional Contractor for best residential kitchen over $120 and 2011 SAHBA Remodeling excellence. John has earned many such awards over the years. Matt, of course, 
Thirty-eight years ago Tim Puntenney joined the Rotary Club of Tucson as one of those many special members sponsored into our club by George Hawke. Tim was still in his twenties and might be the youngest person ever to join our club. He is a fourth generation Arizonan. He and his fraternal twin, James, were born to Bonnie and William Puntenney in Phoenix. Tim came to Tucson to attend the U of A, and after graduating with a degree in Agriculture, he moved away from Arizona briefly to work for Kraft Foods as the personnel manage of the Champaign Works Complex.
He fined members JOHN MCCALEB for winning three different awards -WOW- and DREW VACTOR who apparently remodeled the boot from the former Tack Room restaurant after the old lady who lived in it moved.
Recently I've had some requests to remind our members about the appropriate use of our club roster as well as what members are permitted to promote at our club meetings. Most of our members in our Rotary club are active in other charitable organizations in our community. As a result, there are hundreds of "favorite" charities represented by our members. To maintain fairness and to be considerate of members' time during our meetings, our Board several years ago put into writing the policy that we've had for years that states that requests to solicit funds or volunteers from our members for 
Pres. JONI CONDIT opened the meeting by asking the man who gets you in the end, Funeral Director MIKE ORCUTT, to give the invocation. He was followed by Signor ERNIE MINCHELLA who led the pledge & song accompanied by pianist PP GARY GETHMANN. After our Doubletree gourmet lunch, LESLIE GALLOWAY introduced the many guests. There were no visiting Rotarians. Then came the Birthday Boys and Girl starting with super hiker TOM ANDREWS who was followed by fellow hiker ANN LANCERO. Next was LARRY PETH who sadly informed us that he was leaving Tucson for Colorado that afternoon. LARRY has been a long time member and has done a lot for our club. We will miss you, Larry, and wish you well up there. The last birthday boy was JAY ZUCKER who hit the double 5. MATT BLAIR auctioned off 2 tickets to the Boys & Girls Club party. The high bidder at $200 was LESLIE GALLOWAY. Announcements were made by STU GOLDMAN, work day on April 28; JOE NEVIN, book and clothing drive May 2; VIC JACOBS, home needed for Rotary Exchange student; and KEITH COBB about tickets sold at SAHBA. RON OXMAM is selling raffle tickets to help the Children’s Advocacy Center for abused children. DAVID PASHKOW introduced the program, El Dia de los Muertos. It is a pretty dead subject but presenters Stevie Mack and Kathleen Williams gave a lively presentation that fleshed it out.
RCoT member JESSE THORPE is currently General Manager and Chief Executive of Skyline Country Club. He started as a waiter in 1982 to pay his college tuition and rent. He left in 1991 as Clubhouse Manager, moving to Milwaukee for 3-1/2 years and Las Vegas for almost 11 years before he was asked to return 6 years ago to replace another of our members, DICK KOLASA, who retired. Jesse is currently chairman of our scholarship cups.
Calling the meeting to order PRESIDENT JONI CONDIT commanded attention from her devoted subjects.
Stevie Mack is the founder and President of CRIZMAC Art & Cultural Education Materials Inc., a publishing company committed to the development and publication of art and cultural education resources. Educators across the country use 
Please don't forget to sign up to help us join Rotarians across the world in a special Rotarians At Work day! Our Club's project will be to paint the Primavera Foundation's Men's Shelter. The Primavera Men's Emergency Shelter is a 100-bed facility created from a former warehouse at 200 E.Benson Highway. It provides a minimum 5-night shelter for emergencies, up to 90 days for those failthfully following Primavera's program of leading a clean life in the workplace. Please sign up as we need at least 30 volunteers to help us paint the interior of the shelter. If you'd rather help by writing a check to purchase paint and painting supplies, that would be most appreciated as well! Please let member Gary Hirsch, chairman of the Works Projects Committee know this week if you are interested in helping. (The project will start at 8 a.m. and run 4-5 hours). Thank you!
In 2011 Jack Marek sponsored Jennifer Hoffman into our club. Jennifer is the Chief Operating Officer of Contact One Call Center, and enjoys the fact that it is truly a family business. Her mom, Judy Wood, purchased the then small answering service in 1981. Jennifer was in the second grade at the time and she recalls the switch boards on which the calls were answered. While she is one of our club's younger members, she can still point to the significant changes in technology since those early days when all messages were taken on paper and then manually delivered. Since then, technology has completed transformed her business. All of their interactions are handled through state of the art software creating a consistent platform for their Customer Service Representatives to process and deliver calls accurately and efficiently. 
KEITH COBB gave the invocation and GORDON SHAW sang, “America the Beautiful’, with all 160 members in attendance but not all in harmony. GARY GETHMANN performed on the piano.
Thanks to the Rotary Club of Tucson's Work Projects Committee, Coronado Paints and Valenzuela Drywall, Mark Cordova (owner), the great Honor Society students who showed up and helped. Even the School Prinicipal, John Lansa came by. We had a blast knowing we helped improve the condition of the building and also lifted the spirits of the volunteers who work there and hand out about 35,000 articles of clothing per year to those kids and their families who cannot afford clothes. Thanks to Pat Lennan, Ron Oxman and his grand daughter, Roger Harwell, Pat Zumbusch, Dan Guare and to Cindy Guare who will come later to do some decorative paint touches. A special thanks to President Elect Elect Dave Gallaher for organizing the project. "Service above Self!"
Jim Ewen graduated from The Art Center College of Design in Los Angeles. He began his career at General Motors in 1957. He worked on show cars, then advanced to Research Studio where the "Firebirds" were designed.
KEN LIGHT gave us a short, meaningful invocation. MARSHALL DENNINGTON (Who?) led the pledge and song, accompanied by GARY GETHMANN on the piano. SCOTT VAUGHAN did a stellar job introducing visiting Rotarians and guests. We had several distinguished Tucsonans in attendance who have served as chairmen of the Tucson Airport Authority. Also attending was FAYE MORSE, Honorary Member. It is always a pleasure to see her. Birthdays were celebrated by TED FORSBERG, DOT “Rap Artist” KRET, SUSAN MOORE VAULT, and JON WANG. The raffle raised $287, and many tickets were sold by “newbies” aka the Red Badge Crew. Way to go new members! BOB “Rap Artist 2” LOGAN and CHARLOTTE HARRIS presented Paul Harris Fellow Awards to JONI CONDIT, Taylor Johnson (granddaughter of Joni Condit), DOT KRET, CHRISTINE HARVEY who in turn gave it to her granddaughter, Felicia Harvey
We will meet in the Walgreens on the southwest corner of West Prince and North Flowing Wells, just off I-10 at 8 AM. We will carpool to Picacho. There is a $7.00 per vehicle part entrance fee, so bring your Golden Age Passports! The climb up should take 2 hours, and about the same down, so we should be on our way home by 2 PM. As usual, bring appropriate hiking gear, and gloves, as well as adequate water and snacks. For questions, call Hikemeister, Tom Andrews, at 751-3774 (residence) or 490-5892 (cell) or email: 
The Rotary Foundation’s Group Study Exchange (GSE) program is a unique cultural and vocational exchange opportunity for businesspeople and professionals between the ages of 25 and 40 who are in the early stages of their careers.
Our member Ellen Wheeler, is a graduate of the University of Arizona James E. Roger Law school, and is the Executive Director of the Morris K. and Stewart Udall Foundation. This Foundation was established by Congress in 1992 to honor Morris K. Udall's 30 years of services in Congress and was later enhanced to include Stewart L. Udall's public service. This Foundation is dedicated to educating a new generation of Americans with the intent to preserve and protect their national heritage through scholarships, fellowships, and internships that are focused on the environment and Native American issues. The Udall Foundation is also committed to promoting the principles and practices of environmental conflict resolution. Ellen joined our club in 2006.
Dennis Driscoll is a physical therapist who owns and operates multiple locations of Tucson Physical Therapy, offering a wide range of physical therapy services to individuals who may have been injured on the job at work, who may be recovering from a hip or knee replacement, or who may need therapy to recover from some type of debilitating illness. Dennis joined our club in 1990.
DON SHROPSHIRE introduced our program – Judy Rich, President and CEO, Tucson Medical Center. Judy gave a fantastic presentation on things going on at TMC and in the medical field. 
Thanks to the JCC for a fantastic meeting site and lunch.
TED KIRACOFE gave the invocation. He reminded us all that a teacher
is much more then just a person standing at a board talking. MAGGIE KOSINSKI performed our pledge and song. She sang it "Acapulco"
style (yes I know that's not right but there was a joke in there). SEAN FURRIER
stepped up and did guests and visiting Rotarians. I think JIM RONSTADT
went to the Double Tree and was mesmerized by the pretty little stones.
Our birthday boys were TOM ELLINWOOD who donated to the San Carlos Fund
and PETE RAGUZIN offered support to the Reading Seed. Happy B-Day!
We had some great announcements; we need home hosts, a wine tasting, hikes to
prep for the canyon, and most important was the longest word in the dictionary
was 1,000 letters. I am still wondering if I heard that right? Dr.
Pedicone gave us a nice update on the state of TUSD. At the end of the
day you must have the culture to make the change. Madam President was
eager to finish on time because of my predecessors comments. I am not
sure she made it with the toast length. However, it didn't matter because
I was thinking of my five joyful things. 
The
meeting began with a moving invocation by TONY PENN of the United Way of Tucson
and Southern Arizona.
The January 11, 2012 meeting of the Rotary Club of Tucson was called to order by President JONI CONDIT. JACK PARRIS gave the Invocation. The Pledge and song were led by DAN GUARE. He was accompanied on the piano by GARY GETHMANN. After JOHN ADTKINS introduced our guests, LEE AITKIN, STU GOLDMAN, and BEN HAWKINS were each recognized for their birthdays and service to Rotary. VICKIE JACOBS and CHRIS REANEY handed out Blue Badges to ANN LANCERO, SALLY MONTAGNE, MIKE DEVRIES, and JERRY HARRIS. JON WANG paid tribute to SID HIRSH for his contributions to the relay efforts our Rotary Members have made for the last twenty five years in the Tucson Marathon. MATT BLAIR then conducted a spirited raffle. He said that over Two Hundred Fifty Dollars were raised for Rotary operations through today's raffle. TOM STRASBURG announced that the date of the 2012 Tucson Classics Car Show had been changed to October 13, 2012. He also called for volunteers to distribute Car Show Flyers on January 21st and January 28th. President Joni then announced that long time Rotarian MONTE CLAUSEN underwent surgery this week and will be out for four to six weeks. She also reminded us that Larry Ronstadt, seven year old son of JEFF RONSTADT, is fighting leukemia and would appreciate cards, especially those with music or voice recordings. CINDY GODWIN introduced Tara Jackson and Brint Milward. They spoke on efforts to further civil dialogue in Town Hall Meetings. They said that civil discourse should be frank, honest, robust and civil. They are enlarging the scope of Town Hall meetings to include high school students. The 100th Arizona Town Hall Meeting will be held in Tucson from April 24 through April 27. They did not address how to screen dullards, pompous fools, professional rabble rousers, and raging idiots from open meetings. After a toast by President Joni, the meeting was adjourned./KrumwiedeMarciac.jpg)
Rotarians and their spouses from both clubs served all of the school children and their families lunch. Then the children lined up to give each one of the Tucson Rotarians and their spouses a brightly wrapped handmade Christmas gift. I received a beautiful hand-crocheted black beret and scarf from a beaming but shy young boy. The spirit of Rotary and international friendship was radiating brilliantly in the smiles on all of our faces. 
TED FORSBERG
introduced new member KEITH COBB, the owner of Cobb Realty, who retired from
the Air Force after a long and highly decorated career, including the award of
a Bronze Star.
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Pre
Last Saturday, November 26th, seven RCoT members and five guests hiked the West Fork of the Sabino Canyon Trail up to Hutch's Pool. The day was perfect, with clear skies, cool temps and light winds, and the trail was just strenuous enough to require a few huffs and puffs near the start. We rode the Sabino Canyon Tram to and from the Trailhead, and whistled at RCOT Iron Man Kent Laughbaum, who had decided to 
While hopefully all of our members enjoyed a plentiful Thanksgiving dinner, we don't have far to look to find those in our community who are not so fortunate and have little to eat during this holiday season. Our local Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona is down 1,000,000 pounds of food this fiscal year due to the devastating effects of the hard freeze during this past year which resulted in a reduction of surplus food from the U.S. Dept. of Agriculture and a reduction of produce from Mexico. Because of this, the food bank is in desperate need of donations of food and cash donations which will allow additional food to be purchased.
Our
meeting was brought to order by President JONI at 12:00 noon and then we all
got down to the business of this remarkable ROTARY CLUB. An appropriate
invocation was delivered by PAT ZUMBUSCH, who gave us all much to think
about. CRISSY PERHAM led us in the Pledge to our flag and with a stirring
presentation of “My Country Tis of Thee.” GARY GETHMANN tickled the
ivories and as always helped us with our song. KEN LIGHT stepped up and
introduced our guests and visiting Rotarians with some clever remarks.
Birthday Rotarians had a one minute opportunity to acknowledge their special
days. These Rotarians with their comments were MARIANNE FREITAS, MARGARET HIGGINS,
JONATHAN MARTIN and SONNY SOLOT. Jonathan stated that he will be leaving
Tucson in early 2012; he will be missed. Marianne, next year’s Chairperson of
our Car Show, is in the early stages of laying the groundwork for the 2012 Car
Show. As our Immediate Past President, Marianne
continues with her activities on behalf of our Club. Margaret reflected on her deep appreciation as member of our Club. SONNY SOLOT delivered
an amusing story about his collection of rent in one of the Barrios of Tucson’s
downtown. LARRY ADAMSON introduced GUY FERRO as our newest member with an
unusual presentation. We all know how Guy spells his name. Welcome to
GUY, a Tucson native.
This past weekend had lots of surprises and interesting encounters. My 22 year-old nephew, Jake Merry, signed up at the last minute and placed 106th in the race, just 14 minutes behind the winner and beating the time of the winning female. We were very proud of him. I volunteered to work our El Tour Aid Station at Tangerine near I-10 and had to drive 100 minutes each way just to get there from my far northeast home. It proved to be well worth the effort as I met so many wonderful people, both riders and volunteers at the Aid station. The first person I saw was Charlotte Harris and her daugher, Kathleen, busy mixing up jars of cranberry flavored electrolyte powder and water to give the riders who stopped at the Aid station. Twenty or so Rotarians and family members were working the 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. shift. We each quietly figured out what we could do to help as the riders began to come through in increasingly greater numbers. I missed the front runners by just a bit as learned that this group had a police escort to ensure that they could safely proceed down the street without being impeded by cars.
Saturday was a beautiful day in Tucson and more than 9,000 cyclists rode in this year's El Tour de Tucson ride. Rotary members played an important role in this year's El Tour, riding in either the 111 mile, 85 mile, 60 mile, or 42 mile races this past Saturday to raise more than $90,000 towards the End Polio crusade. For Rotarians, this ride was completed in honor of Rotarian Michael Harris, the beloved husband of our Assistant Governor and Past President Charlotte who passed away in March of this year. Charlotte and her family all took an active role in the race this year, either riding (Cliff and Nicholas Bowman and Chris and Tim Harris) or working the Aid station (daughter, Kathleen Bowman, and Charlotte). A number of Rotarians volunteered to work at the Tangerine Road near I-10 El Tour Aid station, holding bicycles, filling water bottles, and handing out snacks to riders who still had 28 miles to ride. Our Middle East GSE team members also participated in the El Tour. Members Ali and Sophia each rode in the race while the other members worked the Aid Station.
Lifelong Directors of Operations Dominick Scala and Robert Jensen present a comprehensive overview of the iconic Tucson fast food company. Their thirty plus years of experience at Eegee's gives an insider's view of Robert Greenberg and Ed Irving's creation as one of Tucson's most loved companies. Their journey will take you from two college buddy's dreams to the new vision of current owners "The O' Connor Family."
I've been thinking about ways to help our members learn more about one another and it has occurred to me that perhaps our very own Tucsotarian is one way to help with that! I'd like to start profiling a couple of members each week to help our new members know more about our long time members, and vice versa. So here are a few tidbits.....!
On schedule, PRESIDENT JONI CONDIT called our meeting to
order. MIKE ORCUTT gave the Invocation with emphasis on the 4-Way Test.
Having studied under the “Music Master SONNY SOLOT” DAN GUARE led the
Pledge and Song. He was accompanied at the piano by GARY GETHMANN.
Following an enjoyable lunch and table conversation, DARRELL STEWART, wearing
the latest in sports attire, introduced guests and visiting Rotarians.
Congratulations to birthday Rotarian JUDY KEAGY. MARIANNE FREITAS
gave an informative introduction of our new member SALLY MONTAGNE.----WELCOME
SALLY!!!! ROGER HARWELL highlighted the important accomplishments of the
Scholarship Committee. Over the last 70 years approximately $1,000,000 has been
awarded in scholarship support to deserving high school and college students. Car
Show Chairman JOE PENNINGTON introduced Car Show Raffle Winner Summer
Filtz. She elected to receive the $10,000. JOE NEVIN reminded us that
November 16, 2011 is Fall Rotary Clothes Closet Cleaning Day for Goodwill
Industries plus the NORMA PEAL Memorial Book Drive benefiting patients and
families at the University Hospital. New leaders PAT LENNAN and LEE AITKIN will
head the Salvation Army Bell Ringing on December 10, 2011. ALAN SCHROPE
requests that pledges for our San Carlos Project be completed by November 30,
2011. JIM LUBINSKI had the pleasure of announcing that Inside Tucson
Business has named JONI CONDIT in the 2011 issue of Women of Influence. We are
PROUD of our PRESIDENT JONI!!! NINA TRASOFF introduced our speaker Robert
Knight, Executive Director/CEO Tucson Museum of Art and Historic Block.
His informative talk “Who Shot Rock and Roll?” received active audience
participation. We voted for three new RCoT Directors for 2012-2014.
CHARLOTTE HARRIS announced the new Directors. They are TOM ANDREWS, CLIFF
BOWMAN and GARY HIRSCH. Congratulations to our new Directors.
PRESIDENT JONI closed the enthusiastic meeting with our traditional
Rotarian Toast.
Tom Andrews: Tom joined our club in March 2003. His category is Transportation/Aviation Service and served as the Vice President of Operations at the Tucson Airport Authority prior to his retirement. Tom is a retired Air Force pilot and an engineering manager. He has been active in our club as the Enivironmental/Hiking Chair, the District 5500 Outbound Rotary Youth Exchange chair, the Programs Committee, Rotary Youth Exchange, and the San Carlos project. His sponsor was Billy Jo Varney.
Cliff Bowman: Cliff joined our club in 2008 and was sponsored by Assistant Governor, Charlotte Harris. He is an A-10 Instructor pilot with the Air Force, CAE. He is on the Board of Directors of Literacy Connects/Reading Seed. Cliff is a Robison Reading mentor. He has been active in helping the Posse, the Scholarship Cups, Guest and Visitor Introductions, the Salvation Army Bell Ringing, a Car Show Ticket Sales Team Leader, and will be a rider in the 2011 D5500 El Tour to End Polio Ride.
Gary Hirsch: Gary joined our club in 2008 and was sponsored by Past President Bob Shaff. Gary has a consulting business called Vistage International. He has been active as the Works Project Chair (including the Marshall Home for Men garden and the Norma Peal Library project). He is one of our pianists for the pledge and song committee. In 2010 and again this year, he is co-chairing the District 5500 El Tour to End Polio Ride committee and will be riding on November 19th. 
We heard from each of the six Inbound GSE members and they were an impressive, personable, and educated group from the countries of Bahrain, Lebanon, Egypt, Palestine, and Jordan. Their team leader, Magued Anis, is also from Egypt, and last year's club President of the Rotary Club of Alexandria. The five team members are all in their twenties and have professions ranging from global marketing, public relations and marketing, delivery planner for Europe and Aftica for Exxon Mobil, a landscape designer for the development and reconstruction of Beirut, and a physician from the King Hussein Cancer Center in Amman, Jordan. On Sunday morning, they all showed up in hot pink golf shirts so we couldn't miss them, and they each sat with a different table. They told us that they are having the time of their lives and thanked us all for making them feel so welcome and at home. We all realized that if more people could share this type of GSE experience, the world would be more peaceful. 
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If you have had this hike and place on your bucket list here is your chance to check it off! (If you don't have it on your list, you should get it on there!)This trip is sponsored by the Rotary Youth Exchange program for our neighboring District 5510. It is extremely well organized and is a blast. Havasupai Canyon is one of the most scenic spots in all of Arizona and this hike incorporates spectacular scenery plus the opportunity to mingle with the state's RYE students from three Districts including ours. The canyon is home to many waterfalls including the famous Havasu Falls and Mooney Falls which is the highest waterfall in Arizona as well as the Indian village of Supai, Arizona. Anyone is welcome to attend and registration ends October 1st. It is first come, first served. Susan and I have participated twice and it is a very fun experience and great exercise. On average there are about 35-40 RYE students from all over the world and District 5510 members do a remarkable job of making this trip very easy. Pitching in to help is optional and fun to do. The hike is 11 miles to the campground and 11 miles back out. Horses can be reserved and so can a helicopter (at a higher cost). Anyone over the age of 7 is welcome. Trip cost of $285 includes meals, permits, transport of pack by horses, and fun. Transportation is available for an additional $75. If you are interested and want to learn more, call Dave Gallaher at 907-4983.
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