Join us at noon on Wednesday for the Rotary Club of Tucson's Change of Administration (COA) meeting, held at our regular weekly gathering, as we "celebrate" the year led by our outgoing adequate President Kurtis and warmly welcome our incoming President Dot. The meeting will be filled with fun, fellowship, and heartfelt gratitude for the dedication, service, and community impact achieved over the past year. We’ll reflect on the milestones reached and the connections strengthened, while eagerly anticipating the fresh vision and opportunities the new Rotary year will bring. There may even be a full cash bar to enhance the festive atmosphere!
The COA meeting promises an engaging program with entertainment, laughter, and the warm camaraderie that defines our Rotary family. As we pass the gavel, we’ll honor tradition and embrace the excitement of new leadership. Whether you’re a seasoned Rotarian or a newer member, this noon meeting is the perfect time to connect, celebrate, and kick off the new Rotary year with enthusiasm. Come join us for an inspiring and joyful moment in our club’s journey!
As my year as President draws to a close, I find myself filled with gratitude and pride for what we’ve accomplished together. This has been a year of connection, service, and celebration, and it all began with an inspiring trip to the Rotary International Convention in Singapore. The energy I brought back set the tone for a year of meaningful impact and unforgettable moments. Your dedication to our club’s mission has truly brought the Magic of Rotary to life, and I’m honored to have served alongside each of you.
One of our proudest achievements was the success of our Tucson Classics Car Show, which raised funds allowing us to distribute over $225,000 to local organizations. These grants have touched countless lives, supporting causes that make our community stronger and more vibrant. Our Replacement/Social Mixer dinners and 2nd Wednesday “Events Around Town” lunches were a highlight, fostering fellowship and fun as we explored new venues and shared laughter. Thank you to all of you that stepped up to host the lunches! The "Dinner with the President" was another standout for me, raising over $4,000 but even more important for me was the opportunity to meaningfully connect with more of you.
Our membership grew this year, thanks to the leadership on the Membership Committee and fueled by the energy of our successful membership drive, The Derby, which welcomed new Rotarians eager to serve.
We also launched a brand-new event, simply called "The Event," which was an unforgettable evening celebrating our Rotarians for their extraordinary service above self. This inaugural night was a resounding success, filled with joy and recognition for those who embody our values, leaving me inspired as we celebrated individual Rotarians’ achievements.
Our service projects have been at the heart of this year’s success. From hands-on initiatives to partnerships with local organizations, you’ve impacted so many lives through your commitment to service above self. Our beloved mascot, Wilbur, embodied our global reach, traveling across the United States and the world, carrying the spirit of our club wherever he went. Our weekly meetings buzzed with enthusiasm, and a little laughter and fun, with one memorable gathering drawing 150 in attendance—a testament to our thriving community. Fines or “Recognitions”, always collected with a smile, totaled over $3,400, adding a playful boost to our efforts. Thank you to the Rotarians who were game to be a part of this fun.
None of this would have been possible without the incredible individuals who leaned in and made this year extraordinary. To my dedicated Board, thank you for your wisdom and leadership. To our Car Show leaders, your tireless efforts made our signature event a triumph. To my remarkable Sergeant-at-Arms, your humor and organization kept us on track. To the Program Committee, your efforts to ensure we have the best programs helped fill the room every week. To the AV and Registration teams, and so many others who gave their time, talents, and treasures—your contributions are the heartbeat of this club. To the Past Presidents who supported me and gave me wise counsel, thank you and I look forward to having your title. Together, we’ve seen the Magic of Rotary in action, and I’m deeply grateful for the opportunity to lead this amazing group.
As I pass the gavel, I carry with me memories of a year filled with purpose, impact and fun. Thank you for your trust, your passion, and your unwavering commitment to making a difference. The Rotary Club of Tucson is on a trajectory to increase our positive impact, and I can’t wait to see the incredible things we’ll achieve in the year ahead.
Witty KURTIS DAWSON encouraged us to hit the delicious buffet early. After some fun catching up with our tablemates, KURTIS rang the bell and we all stood. New member MATT SINCLAIR led us in the Pledge of Allegiance and accompanied by the talented KRIS DODGE we joined in an enthusiastic chorus of “You’re A Grand Ole’ Flag”!
Afterward, KURTIS mellowed our spirits for a moment of somber silence for the passing of member FAYE MORSE’S sister of a sudden illness. Cards were passed around for us to sign.
And then an inspirational moment by enthusiastic MITCH PISIK using the Rotary’s symbol of a flywheel: the turning spokes represents us attracting new members, having fun, increasing our impact and that effectiveness further attracting new members!
The talented KRIS DODGE called out the names of our guests and we heartily welcomed them with applause! Lots of great looking folks, all encouraged to join our awesome club – love it!
Government whisperer CAMI EVANS introduced multi-degreed (I lost count at the first doctorate), science guru from Poland, most significantly now UofA research & genome sequencing phenom, DANIEL LAUBITZ! He is the Director of the PANDA Core for Genomics & Microbiome Research! They are the only ones in southern AZ on the cutting edge of Next Generation Sequencing, the most comprehensive genetic testing approach. Focus of much of their work is sequencing the genes of children suffering from genetic caused ailments they target diagnosing and treating. With a new machine and judicious use of AI for rapid analysis, they have brought the cost of sequencing, diagnosing, and treatment down significantly with great outcomes!
For those of us (yours truly) who struggled to grasp the most sciency stuff at the core of their work, DANIEL signed the book “Genetics for Smart Kids” for our Make Way For Books library supporting children’s literacy in Tucson. I plan to check that out if they’ll let me.
Witty KURTIS then introduced our birthday members: DARRELL STEWART, who at 5 years old fell out of a B17, losing hearing in one ear (still glad it was not flying); JONATHAN WALKUP, former extra on the t.v. show Dallas, and planning to run with the bulls in Spain this summer (no one tell the underwriter of his life insurance policy); MITCH PISIK, dart, chess & racquetball master, who sincerely flatters us so well; MATT BLAIR, whose Dad was an F16 fighter pilot, and who will turn 50 fly fishing in northern Arizona!
Cirrus Visual Communications member MATT BLAIR warmly introduced new member, MATT SINCLAIR! MATT owns a local plumbing company Backflow Prevention and first experienced Rotary through his daughter who participated in a Rotaract Camp. When he’s not testing & certifying business’ backflow or fixing them, MATT is an avid cyclist (roadie & mountain biker) or wielding a glaive as a medieval warrior! MATT shared why he joined the greatest Rotary Club: people helping people, camaraderie, friendships, and above all, COOKIES!
DON ROLLINGS awarded ANDRES ESPINOZA with his blue badge! ANDRES is the Tucson Area Coordinator of the Salvation Army and he and his wife are pastors in the All Nations Church!
The talented KHRIS DODGE had our speaker DANIEL draw the raffle ticket and I did not win. Again. Darn it.
Witty KURTIS noted the announcements on a slide (and in other parts of this newsletter). Upcoming meeting on 6/25 is the Change of Administration when KURTIS’ reign is passed to DOT KRET! Will miss KURTIS, but also look forward to DOT! JOE DANISZEWSKI reminded everyone to consider an annual donation to the Rotary Foundation through the EREY Every Rotarian Every Year fundraising campaign. Lyrical DOT announced a $10 / quarter dues increase. Bright DAVE WHITE warmly described the outstanding car show leadership of JENNIFER & SEAN HOFFMAN, giving them a cool looking plaque / sculpture as a token of all our appreciation!
Witty KURTIS closed out the meeting and enthusiastic MITCH toasted our close! What a fun meeting!
Join us for the first regular luncheon of the new Rotary year with Club President Dot Kret. Her theme for 2025–26 is “Unite for Good.” Enjoy great fellowship, updates for the year ahead, and the start of a new chapter. PLEASE NOTE: Meetings on 7/2, 7/16, 7/23 and 8/6 will be held in the Crystal/Turquoise Ballroom which you can access through Parking Lot B.
In lieu of Events Around Town on Wednesday, July 9, Madaras Gallery will host a very special evening event at the Gallery. Rotary Club of Tucson will honor Ricky Hunley's induction into the Arizona Sports Hall of Fame, and Bob Logan will sign copies of his book about his three amazing treks across Northern Spain-- "Let Your Path Find You."
Please join fellow Rotarians as we celebrate these two very special members.
Wednesday, July 9th- 6-7:30 pm
Madaras Gallery
3035 N. Swan
Tucson, AZ 85712
520-615-3001
YOU MUST REGISTER FOR THIS EVENT ON CLUBRUNNER. Go to www.tucsonrotary.org and scroll down to UPCOMING EVENTS on the left hand side of the home page.
There is no charge for the event, but you must sign up no later than July 1. PLEASE NOTE: You may park in the lot across the drive as well as in the lot in the far back.
Lace up those boots and join us for the Hiking Fellowship outing on Saturday, July 12th! These hikes are a great way to enjoy Tucson’s beautiful outdoors while connecting with fellow Rotarians in a relaxed, active setting.
Our hikes are open to all members and guests—just bring water, sun protection, and a sense of adventure. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or just looking for a scenic stroll, all levels are welcome.
Stay tuned for more details on the location and meeting time. We hope to see you on the trail!
As we all continue to feel the impact of rising costs in many areas of daily life, our Rotary Club is no exception. Increased expenses related to food, A/V services at the TCC, and general office operations have necessitated a modest adjustment to our membership dues. Beginning with the new Rotary year, quarterly dues will increase by $10.
While this change helps us maintain the quality of our meetings and operations, our commitment to fellowship and service remains unchanged. Together, we will continue to make a meaningful difference in our community—no matter the challenges.
Thank you for your understanding and continued support.
You all should have received the email from the Rotary Office with the Parking Protocols at the TCC. In order for us to continue to receive the complimentary parking, you will need to supply your Name and License Plate Number to kate.calhoun@tucsonaz.gov. When sending your information, please reference that you are a member of the Rotary Club of Tucson. After she has recorded your number into the system, you will not be charged for parking at the TCC going forward. If you have a guest attending a lunch meeting, please inform them they will need to validate their license plate number by stopping by the Guest Services Office inside the glass meeting room doors. Also, if you are driving a different car then the one you supplied information for, you too will need to stop by the Guest Services Office. Please remember to bring your License Plate Number with you when you leave your car.
Thank you and please relay all your questions to Kate at the TCC via the email provided.
Get your Car Show Ticket Packet at the lunch meeting back table with lots of great info to help you sell your tickets. Take some of the Car Show referral cards at your table to give to people to encourage them to buy online. Put your name on the back and ask them to credit you for the sale. Let's all help make this the best Car Show ever! Thank you ~~ Jeanne Zetah
At the Rotary Club of Tucson, we believe in giving back to our community and supporting causes that make a real difference. And now, it’s easier than ever to contribute to our efforts!
We’re excited to highlight a new way for you to make your donations directly to the Rotary Club of Tucson Foundation – all from the comfort of your own home! Simply head to our website, where you’ll find the gold Donation button at the top right of the menu bar. Whether you're contributing to our Scholarships, making a General Donation, or supporting our Local Charities, your generosity will help fund important initiatives that uplift our community.
But wait, there’s more! If you're joining us for lunch at the next meeting, don’t forget to look for the blue scholarship cups on the tables. These cups now feature a QR code that will take you straight to the Donation Page with just a quick scan. No need for cash or checks – donate right from your phone!
We can’t thank you enough for your ongoing support of our Foundation. Your donations directly benefit our community and empower us to continue making a meaningful impact. If you have any questions or need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to the Rotary office.
Let’s continue to do good in our community – with a click, a scan, and your generous heart!
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Join us at noon on Wednesday for the Rotary Club of Tucson's Change of Administration (COA) meeting, held at our regular weekly gathering, as we "celebrate" the year led by our outgoing adequate President Kurtis and warmly welcome our incoming President Dot. The meeting will be filled with fun, fellowship, and heartfelt gratitude for the dedication, service, and community impact achieved over the past year. We’ll reflect on the milestones reached and the connections strengthened, while eagerly anticipating the fresh vision and opportunities the new Rotary year will bring. There may even be a full cash bar to enhance the festive atmosphere!
Dear Rotary Club of Tucson Members,
Government whisperer CAMI EVANS introduced multi-degreed (I lost count at the first doctorate), science guru from Poland, most significantly now UofA research & genome sequencing phenom, DANIEL LAUBITZ! He is the Director of the PANDA Core for Genomics & Microbiome Research! They are the only ones in southern AZ on the cutting edge of Next Generation Sequencing, the most comprehensive genetic testing approach. Focus of much of their work is sequencing the genes of children suffering from genetic caused ailments they target diagnosing and treating. With a new machine and judicious use of AI for rapid analysis, they have brought the cost of sequencing, diagnosing, and treatment down significantly with great outcomes! 
DON ROLLINGS awarded ANDRES ESPINOZA with his blue badge! ANDRES is the Tucson Area Coordinator of the Salvation Army and he and his wife are pastors in the All Nations Church!
The following New Active Member application has been submitted for membership in Rotary Club of Tucson:
Join us for the first regular luncheon of the new Rotary year with Club President Dot Kret. Her theme for 2025–26 is “Unite for Good.” Enjoy great fellowship, updates for the year ahead, and the start of a new chapter. PLEASE NOTE: Meetings on 7/2, 7/16, 7/23 and 8/6 will be held in the Crystal/Turquoise Ballroom which you can access through Parking Lot B.
Come Celebrate Two Fellow Rotarians.jpg)
Book: The FBI Way: Inside the Bureau's Code of Excellence
As we all continue to feel the impact of rising costs in many areas of daily life, our Rotary Club is no exception. Increased expenses related to food, A/V services at the TCC, and general office operations have necessitated a modest adjustment to our membership dues. Beginning with the new Rotary year, quarterly dues will increase by $10.
You all should have received the email from the Rotary Office with the Parking Protocols at the TCC. In order for us to continue to receive the complimentary parking, you will need to supply your Name and License Plate Number 
Get your Car Show Ticket Packet at the lunch meeting back table with lots of great info to help you sell your tickets. Take some of the Car Show referral cards at your table to give to people to encourage them to buy online. Put your name on the back and ask them to credit you for the sale. Let's all help make this the best Car Show ever! Thank you ~~ Jeanne Zetah
At the Rotary Club of Tucson, we believe in giving back to our community and supporting causes that make a real difference. And now, it’s easier than ever to contribute to our efforts!
