PRESIDENT DOT KRET opened the June 3, 2026, Rotary Club of Tucson meeting by introducing new members BILL & SHERIE TOBIN, who led the pledge and song, accompanied by LEAH RANALLI on keyboard.
ROB LAMASTER delivered the Inspirational Moment, and Sergeant-at-Arms DAN KALM introduced the guests and welcomed those watching virtually.
PRESIDENT DOT thanked all our Home Hospitality hosts, along with a shout out to JIM ENGEL who graciously donated his gift certificate for 40 to GEORGE LARSON’S Car Cave.
CLARK GODING of Beasley, Mitchell & Co. was recognized as the meeting’s “Cookie Monster” sponsor. Thank you CLARK!
MARK STEGEMEN introduced featured speaker DR. JOELLEN RUSSELL, distinguished oceanographer at the University of Arizona. DR. RUSSELL explained the ocean’s critical role in regulating climate and weather, noting that it covers 72% of Earth’s surface and absorbs approximately 93% of the excess heat associated with global warming. She described how autonomous ocean-monitoring floats, coupled ocean-atmosphere models, and advanced computing have improved reliable weather forecasting from three days to ten days.
DR RUSSELL reviewed evidence of rising atmospheric carbon dioxide, increasing global temperatures, and Arizona’s warming trends, including more extreme heat and drought concerns. She emphasized the importance of understanding ocean circulation and described her team’s development of a global network of robotic floats, many deployed around Antarctica, that collect temperature, oxygen, and carbon dioxide data.
During the Q&A session, DR. RUSSELL addressed science funding, ozone recovery, desertification, emissions reductions, energy transitions, and electric vehicles. She expressed optimism about technological innovation and highlighted Arizona’s leadership in water management, renewable energy, and emissions reductions. She also signed Commotion in the Ocean for the Make Way for Books Library collection.
Following the presentation, birthdays for SCOTT VAUGHAN and MITCH PISIK were recognized. Happy Birthday you two!
New members MICHELLE SPETNAGEL, SHERIE TOBIN and BILL TOBIN were formally introduced. Welcome to the Club!
The meeting concluded with the raffle, a report from MARK IRVIN on a Rotary-supported donation to Winers and Diners which benefit military families at DMAFB and announcements.
PRESIDENT DOT reminded all of the Events Around Town, no lunch meeting on the 10th and rang the bell to adjourn the meeting.
