Welcome back to Downtown! PRESIDENT MARK IRVIN rang the bell at 12p to get the meeting started.
PRESIDENT MARK IRVIN called for a moment of silence for Ukraine and then for another moment of silence for NICOLE LOMBARDO’S mom who recently passed away.
We were led in the pledge and song by SEAN HOFFMAN. Today’s song was “God Bless America” with assistance on the keyboard from KHRIS DODGE.
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The inspirational moment was given by MITCH PISIK. MITCH spoke about the total impact we as a club have here in Tucson, all the ways we have impacted others lives from our Make Way for Books campaign to those hosting the Rotary Exchange Students. We should be impressed with ourselves and remember these efforts are annual. We must continue these efforts each year.
We then broke for lunch. After lunch and fellowship PRESIDENT MARK introduced SERGEANT AT ARMS, KHRIS DODGE, who then introduced our guests for this Wednesday.
PRESIDENT MARK introduced our speaker for this Wednesday meeting; Scott Stiteler, Owner of Tucson Urban LLC. He has developed homes and lots here in Downtown Tucson. A lot of his efforts are focused on and around Congress Street. Most notably, The Hub Restaurant, The Playground and The AC Marriott along with the upcoming Corbett Building and The Moxy. Scott is an avid swimmer and photographer.
Scott then gave a great presentation; “Downtown Tucson and How I Got Here.” Scott shared several personal stories that connected with the pictures shared on the screen. For Scott they’ve all played a part in how he got here and what they mean to him. He loves to take pictures of interesting buildings and neighborhoods. He loves the possibilities of the different shapes, textures, and colors. Scott shared a very touching story of his father and his gambling hobby. Scott’s father loved the Kentucky Derby, along with his father and brother took many trips to the Churchill Downs over the years. Scott attended the Kentucky Derby last week. He bet a trifecta on the long shot Rich Strike. Boy did that bet pay off big time! Scott, along with his brother-in-law, won the 100 to 1 bet! He also was able to honor his father’s last wishes, by spreading some of his ashes at Churchill Downs. Scott shared a few additional stories of his travels and adventures then closed the presentation of what is next to come; the opening of The Corbett Building. Be sure to stop by for some great beer and Pickle Ball! Here is the link to the video for Wednesday’s presentation: https://youtu.be/rJ2SI4zGA94
After Scott’s presentation the book “Build This City” was signed by Scott Stiteler for our Make Way for Books Library as we continue to support children’s literacy in Tucson.
Next up we celebrated our Rotary Birthdays! Happy birthday to: JOE PENNINGTON who celebrated his birthday on 3/1, PRODIP DUTTA who’s birthday is today, 5/11 and CHUCK SAWYER who will celebrate his birthday on 5/16.
We had a new member inducted this meeting. DAVE GALLAHER introduced THOMAS ROBERTSON as our newest member. He has a long history of being a part of Rotary activities, he participated in The Rotary Exchange Program, was the recipient of the Rotary Youth Leadership Award in 2013. Welcome THOMAS!
After a celebratory introduction of previous Orville McPherson awardees by MARGARET HIGGINS, JIM LUBINSKI stepped up to the podium to present The Orville McPherson Award. This award was presented to JONI CONDIT. JONI was very surprised by this award and thanked all the club members for the fellowship and friendship. JONI received a second surprise when she turned around and saw her husband, who she’s known since the 1st grade, standing behind her to also congratulate her. The Raffle and King of Clubs game presented by SERGEANT AT ARMS KHRIS DODGE. The King of Clubs card was not drawn. Better luck to all club members next meeting.
Announcements:
PRESIDENT MARK IRVIN gave an update on #Irv’s Fly-Fishing Fund and showed a picture of Chase Pickering with some great looking fish. He was fishing with his granddad, STEVE PICKERING, in Alaska. There are only three more chances to get on this board, you don’t want to miss out on being a part of this! Thank you to all those that have shared their pictures and donations thus far.
PRESIDENT MARK IRVIN reminded everyone of the Change of Administration event on June 18th at the Mountain Oyster Club, sign up will be listed soon. This is not a replacement mixer, all members and guests will be billed.
PRESIDENT MARK IRVIN shared with the club as of the meeting on May 25th, you no longer need to reserve your space to attend the meeting. Next was an update on Home Hospitality Week. There was a total of 142 participants who attended these events. Thank you to all those who hosted our members.
PRESIDENT MARK IRVIN closed with a final thank you to all our members, guests, and virtual attendees. The scholarship cups are on the table if you’d like to donate and, remember to return your badge in your numbered slot on your way out.
PRESIDENT MARK gave the final toast before ringing the bell to adjourn the meeting.
