Mark Kelly has served his country as a U.S. Navy combat pilot, a NASA astronaut, and now as a U.S. Senator for Arizona. As a Navy pilot, he flew 39 combat missions in Operation Desert Storm and retired from the Navy with the rank of Captain. In 1996, he was selected as an astronaut in the same NASA class as his identical twin brother, Scott. He retired in 2011 after commanding Space Shuttle Endeavour on its final flight. Now, as the U.S. Senator for Arizona, Senator Kelly has broken through Washington gridlock to deliver real results for Arizonans. He helped pass the historic bipartisan infrastructure law and was a chief negotiator of the CHIPS and Science Act, which will increase domestic microchip manufacturing to create high-paying Arizona jobs, strengthen supply chains, and bolster national security. Senator Kelly serves on the Armed Services, Environment and Public Works, Intelligence, Aging, and Joint Economic Committees.
No fooling—our April 1st Events Around Town (EAT) lunches were the perfect midday escape, filled with laughter, connection, and some seriously good food.
Rotarians stepped away from their desks and gathered across town, turning local lunch spots into lively hubs of conversation and camaraderie. From the bold flavors at Guadalajara Grill to the charming setting of Café à La Carte downtown, each table offered its own unique vibe—but the goal was the same: great food, great people, and a refreshing break in the day.
Our hosts made sure every group felt welcomed and engaged, sparking conversations that ranged from business to personal stories—and everything in between. Whether reconnecting with familiar faces or getting to know someone new, it was time well spent.
A big thank you to our wonderful hosts for making these gatherings happen—and to everyone who joined and made lunchtime something special.
If you couldn’t make it this time, just know—you missed a good one. But another EAT is always on the calendar, and it’s the kind of lunch you’ll want to RSVP “yes” to.
Until next time, let’s keep the connections going!
On March 18, 2026, 51 Rotarians donated a little over 1,000 items and $240 to the elderly residents of the Western Wind apartments. Pauline Rubio, Resident Service Coordinator, wrote a thank you to the Club and noted that the residents truly appreciated the items. I want to thank Wally Johnson who conducted much of the pre-planning, Michelle Ward who assisted at the drop off tent and all the Members who donated, making it a very successful service project and an economic benefit to the older adult residents of the Western Winds apartments.
The Rotary Vocational Fund of Arizona (TRVFA) is a Qualifying Charitable Organization (QCO code 20698) allowing Arizona taxpayers to claim a dollar-for-dollar state tax credit. Donations reduce tax liability by up to $495 (single/head of household) or $987 (married filing jointly) for the 2025 tax year.
Key Details on TRVFA Tax Credit (QCO 20698)
Maximum Credit (2025 Tax Year): Up to $495 for single/head of household; $987 for married filing joint taxpayers.
Purpose: Funds provide vocational education grants to low-income individuals, helping them gain skills and certification for higher-paying jobs.
Donation Mechanism: Contributions can be made through the TRVFA website to qualify for the credit.
Federal Tax Impact: These donations may also be deducted on federal returns if the donor itemizes.
Do you know someone in our Club who deserves Rotary recognition? If you’re aware of a recent achievement, special honor, or noteworthy accomplishment involving one of our members, please let us know.
Kindly reach out to President Dot, SAA Dan Kalm, or the Rotary office with the details. We would love to recognize them at an upcoming lunch meeting.
Let’s celebrate the great things happening within our Club — Way to go, Rotary!
Dear Rotarians: Would you like to be a little more involved? Do you like to take photos, write, greet or even give an inspiration or toast?
We need to add some new blood to write the weekly recap as mystery editors. You take notes and recap the meeting for the weekly Tucsotarian.
Not a writer? We could use some folks to add to our talent and take photos in the meeting of new members, blue badge recipients or even Paul Harris honorees. You just need to grab the camera or use your phone!!
Want to meet more folks? Get to meet other members? Consider being a greeter once a month.
Finally, if you’d like to challenge the group, give the inspiration or toast from time to time, let us know.
If you have any questions or want to participate more in 2026, please call or text me at 520-300-1293 or email me.
COME ONE, COME ALL!! Please join the Hiking Fellowship for a day of camaraderie, shopping, food and of course a nice little walk around Bisbee following the Bisbee 1000 route - Saturday, April 11th; 6:30AM meet time at El Con Mall. Starbucks @El Con Mall
Join us for an important and timely Rotary event focused on Human Trafficking Awareness. This free seminar will take place on Monday, April 13, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM at SaddleBrooke Ranch.
Guests are welcome to arrive early and enjoy lunch from the restaurant, which will be open for orders prior to the start of the program. Coffee will be available, and water will be provided during the event.
This seminar offers an opportunity to learn, engage, and increase awareness of a critical issue affecting communities everywhere. We hope you will join us for this informative and impactful presentation.
Join us for a special happy hour at Hotel Congress as we celebrate our annual trip and count down the days until we unearth the Rotary Centennial Time Capsule on April 1, 2121! Mark your calendars for April 15th from 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM and swing by for some fantastic Rotary fellowship. The time capsule, buried on April 21, 2022, to honor our club’s 100th anniversary, holds treasures Rotary Club of Tucson will rediscover in the distant future. No reservations needed—just drop in, bring a friend, and let’s toast to a century of impact and the exciting moment still to come!
The Adopt a Road service project will take place on Saturday, April 18, 2026
Tucson Clean & Beautiful / Rotary Club of Tucson
the Adopt a Road Service Project is Saturday, April 18, 2026, at 8:00 AM.
Rotarians—please join your fellow members as we continue our ongoing mission to clean up Oracle Road. There’s always roadside trash to tackle, and thanks to our efforts over the past two years, we can truly see the difference we’re making—the area is noticeably cleaner.
We’ll meet at Pinz Bowling, 501 W. River Road, at 8:00 AM and wrap up by mid-morning. Expect fresh air, a little light exercise, and the occasional “interesting” find along the way.
All supplies are provided, including gloves, safety vests, grabbers, and trash bags. We’ll also have snacks and water on hand.
Please wear closed-toe shoes, along with a hat and sunscreen.
Our special evening to recognize ourselves and celebrate our club will take place at the Tucson Country Club on April 22nd.
Join us for a memorable night of fun, great food, and a chance to pat ourselves on the back as we give a well-deserved shout-out to our fellow Rotarians who have gone above and beyond to help propel our efforts in serving the community.
Please save the date—more details will be coming soon!
What was once the Whisky Fellowship has officially evolved into something even more spirited. Introducing the Desert Spirits Fellowship of the Rotary Club of Tucson—now celebrating not only whisky, but also tequila and mezcal in honor of Cinco de Mayo.
Following a spectacular last gathering filled with laughter, camaraderie, and some exceptional pours, the leadership team—Mitch Pisik, Brett Stein, Gordy Siewert, and Luis Hernandez—promise that the next event will be the most fun one yet.
Details:
Date: Wednesday, May 6
Time: 6:15 PM – whenever the evening naturally concludes
Location: Home of Steve & Ann Pickering, 4850 E. Placita Provida
Cost: $20 plus an interesting bottle of whisky (rye earns bonus points), tequila, or mezcal
Food: Plenty of favorite munchies provided
Who’s Invited: Rotarians, significant others, and prospective Rotarians who enjoy good company and great conversation
RSVP: Email Steve Pickering at stevepickering75@gmail.com by May 4 at 10:00 AM. Capacity: Limited to 30 guests, so don’t delay.
Bring a bottle, bring a friend, and bring your sense of adventure. Cheers to another memorable evening of fellowship!
To Rotary Club of Tucson members, family members & friends-
As Bobby gets ready for his upcoming RCOT presidency, Lori and I are heading up the Community Food Bank work project efforts for our club. Saturday May 9th from 9:00 - 12:00 our Club is scheduled to work together at the Community Food Bank. They will be ready for 50 us to be there, so lets see how many thousands of pounds of food we can box up!
We know the CFB is a favorite Service Project for many of us so please check your calendars and email/text Lori or I back if you (or others you know at least 16 years of age) can make it.
Where: Community Food Bank at 3003 S Country Club Rd. Tucson, AZ 85713 When: Saturday May, 9, 2026, 8:45 AM to check in then work 9:00 AM - 12:00 Why: To help our Tucson and Southern AZ neighbors Who: The Rotary Club of Tucson, family members/friends/neighbors etc. What: Have fun with your Rotary friends packing food boxes for people in need Lunch after: TBD (stay tuned)
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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Mark Kelly has served his country as a U.S. Navy combat pilot, a NASA astronaut, and now as a U.S. Senator for Arizona. As a Navy pilot, he flew 39 combat missions in Operation Desert Storm and retired from the Navy with the rank of Captain. In 1996, he was selected as an astronaut in the same NASA class as his identical twin brother, Scott. He retired in 2011 after commanding Space Shuttle Endeavour on its final flight. Now, as the U.S. Senator for Arizona, Senator Kelly has broken through Washington gridlock to deliver real results for Arizonans. He helped pass the historic bipartisan infrastructure law and was a chief negotiator of the CHIPS and Science Act, which will increase domestic microchip manufacturing to create high-paying Arizona jobs, strengthen supply chains, and bolster national security. Senator Kelly serves on the Armed Services, Environment and Public Works, Intelligence, Aging, and Joint Economic Committees. 
On March 18, 2026, 51 Rotarians donated a little over 1,000 items and $240 to the elderly residents of the Western Wind apartments. Pauline Rubio, Resident Service Coordinator, wrote a thank you to the Club and noted that the residents truly appreciated the items. I want to thank Wally Johnson who conducted much of the pre-planning, Michelle Ward who assisted at the drop off tent and all the Members who donated, making it a very successful service project and an economic benefit to the older adult residents of the Western Winds apartments.
Dear Rotarians: Would you like to be a little more involved? Do you like to take photos, write, greet or even give an inspiration or toast? 
COME ONE, COME ALL!! Please join the Hiking Fellowship for a day of camaraderie, shopping, food and of course a nice little walk around Bisbee following the Bisbee 1000 route - Saturday, April 11th; 6:30AM meet time at El Con Mall. 
Join us for an important and timely Rotary event focused on Human Trafficking Awareness. This free seminar will take place on Monday, April 13, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM at SaddleBrooke Ranch.
Join us for a special happy hour at Hotel Congress as we celebrate our annual trip and count down the days until we unearth the Rotary Centennial Time Capsule on April 1, 2121! Mark your calendars for April 15th from 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM and swing by for some fantastic Rotary fellowship. The time capsule, buried on April 21, 2022, to honor our club’s 100th anniversary, holds treasures Rotary Club of Tucson will rediscover in the distant future. No reservations needed—just drop in, bring a friend, and let’s toast to a century of impact and the exciting moment still to come!
The Adopt a Road service project will take place on Saturday, April 18, 2026
Desert Spirits Fellowship – Mark Your Calendar!
To Rotary Club of Tucson members, family members & friends-
2026 TLT meeting schedule.
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!
TRAK
