A lively crowd of Rotarians and virtual guests packed the Tucson Convention Center for our March 4th meeting, where music, mentoring, and Rotary spirit took center stage.
President DOT rang the bell and welcomed new member JOHN WILSON who led us in the Pledge and a spontaneous acapella rendition of “God Bless America”, well done! President DOT welcomed everyone and offered warm recognition to long‑time member GARY HIRSCH as he and KANDY prepare for their move to Portugal—a special reminder of how close our Rotary Family is. GARY and KANDY would love visitors so plan a trip so they don’t start to miss us too much.
She also called out BILL HARLOW who has been a member of our club the longest. 50+ years… dang!
JOE DANISZEWSKI shared some inspiring words to prep us for our incredible line up of speakers.
COOKIE Monster duties went to GARY OLSEN of Restoration 1, ensuring no Rotarian faced the program without proper sugar support.
PRESIDENT DOT then introduced DIANA MADARAS, who in turn welcomed our speaker, Assistant Chief Mickey Petersen of TPD, to share the powerful “TYM‑TPD‑SUSD” collaboration—an innovative, music‑based mentoring and life‑skills program for local youth. Mickey’s message hit all the right notes as he described how music immersion is helping young people find confidence, connection, and a positive path forward. A children’s book titled “Music” was signed to be donated to Make Way for Books, extending the impact to Tucson’s youngest readers.
We celebrated March birthdays for DREW VACTOR 3/1 who has had 100% attendance making up meetings across the globe, CHAR HARRIS 3/6 who can play the Alto Saxophone like she did in high school, and DANIEL ALLEN 3/12 who as a Red Badger is still becoming a Rotarian but winning that corvette…
RICK ROSE helped us to welcome new member JOHN WILSON. Welcome to the best Rotary Club in the Whole Wide World!
SAA DAN KALM pulled the winning raffle ticket, they left the meeting $110 richer. The large pot will keep growing as the King of Clubs was not drawn today.
We heard from NANCY STOCKTON and RYLA students, Sophie and Daniel who brought fresh energy and leadership inspiration to the room.
PRESIDENT DOT shared announcements and highlighted upcoming events, including service projects, mixers, scholarship support, our March 25th Replacement/Social Mixer (Register – limited to 70) at Trident Grill II and our April 1st VIP visit from Senator Mark Kelly register ASAP.
We had a Happy Jackson from JIM MURPHY asking us to bring household and personal items to donate to the residents at Western Winds Senior Apartments on March 18th.
Another Happy Jackson from JIM LUBINSKI inviting us to the Out of the Darkness walk on 3/28. Reach out to him to donate or sign up to walk and support the cause.
Reach out to SAA Dan Kalm if you are interested in taking pictures, greeting, Mystery Editor, picking up centerpieces, piano playing and helping out during and after the meetings.
Car Show Chair ALAN ROGERS is looking for volunteers to sell tickets at the Tucson Festival of Books. Keep an eye out for an email or reach out to WALLY JOHNSON.
JOE DANISZEWSKI closed us out with a song, channeling the spirit of our speaker.
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!
On Wednesday, March 18, 2026, from 11:15 a.m. – 12:25 p.m., we invite all members to take part in a simple but meaningful service project supporting the residents of Western Hills Senior Apartments, owned by Mercy Housing.
Western Hills is home to seniors age 62+ or individuals with mobility challenges who live on very limited, income-based budgets—many relying solely on Social Security. For some, daily essentials can be difficult to afford, and family support is limited.
This is an easy way for everyone to participate—no heavy lifting required, just a caring heart. Please bring personal care items, cleaning supplies, puzzles, or books to the March 18 meeting.
Let’s show these seniors that the Rotary Club of Tucson cares.
Lead: Nancy Gutt (the_nance@comcast.net) Please email me if you plan on helping out on the TRAK day!
TRAK (Therapeutic Ranch for Animals and Kids)
When: March 21st
Time: 8:00 to 10:00 a.m.
Where: 3250 E. Allen Road
Be a "rancher" in the morning and help with trimming and raking, scooping, cleaning, feeding animals, and helping move the facility a few hundred yards. Wear gloves, shoes and clothes that can get dirty, and bring a water bottle.
Save the Date of Saturday, March 21st - Phoneline Trail in Sabino Canyon
Our first 2026 venture in Sabino Canyon will be on Saturday, March 21st. This will provide a few options to choose from, dependent upon your own preference of distance. We will be enjoying the Phoneline Trail which offers multiple distinct options. The Phoneline Link Loop which is about 4.5 miles. An out and back to King Arthur's table or any point on the trail, really, which will extend to your chosen mileage. There is always the Phoneline Trail out and back of 9.8 miles. Lastly, there is the full Phoneline Loop Trail with return on the tram road which is about 11 miles roundtrip.
Start time will be confirmed as we get closer but with spring conditions and the high winter demand it will likely be shortly after sunrise. Meeting place is at the Bear Canyon gate on the east end of the lot.
I hope that many will be joining on this always favorite of mine, and Hike On!
Our next Replacement/Social Mixer will be held the evening of March 25th at Trident Grill II on the Patio, 2910 N. Swan from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. This is a great way to meet your fellow Rotarians in a relaxed setting. Registration is now open under Upcoming Events on the homepage of the website www.tucsonrotary.org. Please be sure to register your guests. Guest fee is $35 billed to your member account. Registration is capped at 70 so sign up now! Hope to see you there...
The Rotary Club of Tucson will host Mark Kelly, United States Senator from Arizona, as our guest speaker on Wednesday, April 1.
The guest fee for this event will be $40. All must Register for this event on the Club Website www.tucsonrotary.org under Upcoming Events. Additional details will be shared as they become available. Register Now!!!!
Change of Date: The Adopt a Road service project is moved from March 7th, to Saturday, April 18th, 2026
Tucson Clean & Beautiful / Rotary Club of Tucson
As a result of unanticipated conflicts… the Adopt a Road Service Project is now Saturday, April 18th, 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.
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!
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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This is a wonderful opportunity to connect, share stories, and build friendships in a relaxed and casual setting.
ROSE helped us to welcome new member JOHN WILSON. Welcome to the best Rotary Club in the Whole Wide World!
t/Social Mixer (Register – limited to 70) at Trident Grill II and our April 1st VIP visit from Senator Mark Kelly register ASAP.
Lead: Nancy Gutt (
Our next Replacement/Social Mixer will be held the evening of March 25th at Trident Grill II on the Patio, 2910 N. Swan from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. This is a great way to meet your fellow Rotarians in a relaxed setting. Registration is now open under Upcoming Events on the homepage of the website 
Change of Date: The Adopt a Road service project is moved from March 7th, to Saturday, April 18th, 2026
Desert Spirits Fellowship – Mark Your Calendar!
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!
