PRESIDENT KURTIS clapped us to attention to start off our meeting as we didn’t have a bell. Crowd participation is always a good thing. He then invited new member DUANE WHITAKER up to lead us in the Pledge of Allegiance and “God Bless America” acapella style, and we sounded quite good according to PRESIDENT KURTIS, well done RCOT, well done.
PRESIDENT KURTIS let us know that member JIM RUBOYIANES broke his leg and won’t be at meetings while he is on the mend. Cards were sent around to wish him a speedy recovery. Also, FRANK DAHL is asking for prayers for him and his wife Sandy, who was just diagnosed with stage 4 cancer. Thoughts and prayers are going out to you both.
Today our Inspiration was from JEFF RONSTADT (where in the world has this guy been?); he shared a story about a talking frog that was stuck in a hole. Luckily the little guy was able to hop to freedom. Turns out it is easy to conquer difficult things when people are cheering for you.
SAA KHRIS DODGE introduced us to our guests, there were quite a few.
Our first speaker was KHRIS DODGE, he shared quite the introduction of our impressive keynote speaker, Alexander Schauss, PhD. He spoke on “The Economic Impact of Tucson’s new UA Alfie Norville Gem and Mineral Museum and Tucson’s Annual Gem and Mineral Show”. When the Tucson Gem and Mineral Show first started in 1976 it has grown to one of the largest in the world, and has a reputation for getting the best of the best exhibitors. The economic impact of the gem and mineral show is jaw dropping. According to a 2019 survey, the gem and mineral show brought in$121,436,030 to our local economy, and this number doesn’t even include the purchases at the show which accounts for hundreds of millions of dollars. This show is a GEM indeed.He went on to discuss the UA Alfie Norville Gem and Mineral Museum, his involvement in the development and construction of the museum along with the amazing exhibits it showcases. It is definitely a must see if you haven’t been.
PAST PRES MARGARET HIGGINS was our third speaker today. She gave a lovely introduction to our new member DUANE WHITAKER. Welcome DUANE.
GARY HIRSCH introduced us to another new member: TIM GRAUNKE. Welcome! We are so glad to have you, and love that you bring down the average age!And now to introduce our new BLUE BADGERS: STEVE PICKERING presented BILL TONG with his Blue Badge, CHARLOTTE HARRIS presented DORVITA PARKER her BB. YAY, high fives!!
CHARLOTTE HARRIS also presented three Paul Harris Awards to: DORVITA PARKER, LISA STANTON AND ERIC LAMB. Congratulations on your Paul Harris Fellow!
SAA KHRIS DODGE announced the winner of the raffle, LISA STANTON!! Alright LISA!! But the big money is still up for grabs.
PRESIDENT KURTIS shared announcements:
Check the table for upcoming events and projects.
Next Week we are having a Replacement Mixer at Charro Vida, remember to sign up, no lunch meeting.
Get your selfies with Red Badgers to Dorinna!!
Wilbur has been traveling again: he hit the beautiful mountain town of Aspen with RICKY HUNLEY and Jeannine Mason, and he also enjoyed a Caribbean Cruise with MITCH PISIK and his wife Bonnie. What a lucky mascot!
Make your donations! Every Rotarian Every Year.
JIM LUBINSKI had a Happy Jackson (the happiest sort) He announced the birth of his second grandchild, Dominic Jeffrey.
JEANNE ZETAH introduced us to some guests from JTED; our newest INTERACT Club! Members are happy to see these young future Rotarians! Keep up the good work.
Remember there is no meeting next week but we are having a Replacement Mixer at Charro Vida on Oracle Road. Sign up on the Club website under “Upcoming Events”.
PRESIDENT KURTIS ended the meeting and had JEFF RONSTADT send us off with a toast.
