Tucsotarian - March 18, 2026
 

Stories

Dr. Lisa Chamberlain - March 18
Lisa Chamberlain, MD, MPH, is Chair of the Department of Pediatrics, the Fayez K. Ghishan, MD Endowed Director of the Steele Children’s Research Center, and Professor of General Pediatrics at the University of Arizona College of Medicine-Tucson.
 
Her academic focus is on reducing pediatric disparities. Her past research includes bridging early childhood education, pediatrics, and developing the evidence base for “Kinder Ready” clinics. Her health services research examines children with medical complexity, which led her to work in Sacramento increasing access to care in California. She is founder and co-director of the Stanford Pediatric Advocacy Track, a nationally replicated program training pediatricians to address child poverty through community and policy engagement. She co-founded the California Collaborative, training over 800 pediatricians a year, now replicated in 8 states. Dr. Chamberlain is a nationally recognized pediatric advocate and has just been named the President-elect of the American Pediatrics Society, the nation’s largest research-focused professional pediatrics association.
 
 
This Week's Cookie Sponsor
 
Good Food, Great Company at March Events Around Town

Rotarians were once again out and about on March 11 for another round of Events Around Town (EAT)—our favorite excuse to swap the meeting room for great food and even better company. Small groups gathered across Tucson, filling tables at Mojo Cuban Kitchen, Vero Amore, Reforma, Mountain Oyster Club, and Forbes Meat Co. Lively conversation, plenty of laughs, and a few new stories for the Rotary archives were shared throughout the lunches.

A big thank you to our generous hosts—Mark Irvin, John Duval, David Lovitt, Glenn Ewing, Chuck Sawyer, Bobby Larson, Vickie Jacobs, Marcia Krumwiede, John Doerr, Rich Flynn, Dot Kret, and Jonathan Walkup—for organizing the gatherings and bringing Rotarians together around town.

These smaller get-togethers continue to be one of the best ways to connect with fellow members in a relaxed setting. If you missed this round, don’t worry—there’s always another EAT just around the corner. And if you’d like to host a future gathering, the Rotary Office would love to hear from you! 🍽️

Welcome New Member

Please welcome the following new member into the Rotary Club of Tucson.  She will be introduced at a future lunch meeting.

Active Member:  Michelle Spetnagel
 
Company:  Banner Plans & Networks
 
Classification: Medical & Healthcare: Community Outreach
 
Sponsor: Dot Kret
Proposed New Members
The following new Member applications have been submitted for membership in Rotary Club of Tucson:
 
Active Member:  MeMe Aguila
 
Company: We Care Tucson
 
Classification: Community & Social Services: We Care Tucson
 
Sponsor: Gordy Siewert
___________________________________________________
Active Member:  Tina Bauschatz
 
Company: Marmalade Skies Tutoring
 
Classification: Education: Reading Specialist
 
Sponsor: Alan Schrope
 
If no written objections are received within ten days of publication, the applicants will be accepted.
Help Us Recognize Club Members!

 Dear Fellow Rotarians,

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!

Get Involved!
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.
 
SAA Dan Kalm
Western Winds Senior Apartments Service Project - March 18

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.

TRAK - March 21
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. 
Nancy Gutt, the_nance@comcast.net, 520-730-4592
Hiking Fellowship - March 21
 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.  
 
With warmer than usual temperatures, next Saturday's hike will start with sunrise and forecast 70 degrees.  Dependent on your own desired hiking distance, please allow 2-4 hours.  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!
 
Replacement/Social Mixer - 3/25/26 - Trident II
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...
 
Rotary Golf Fellowship - March 27
Rotary Golf Fellowship Schedule
 
Friday, March 27, 2026
 
Contact Bruce Tunze at btunze@gmail.com to sign up.
Guest Speaker - Senator Mark Kelly - April 1

All Must Register

Senator Mark Kelly - April 1st

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 and don't forget to register your guests!!!!

  • Please submit your questions in advance (send them to Dotary@dkajobs.com) – there will be no questions from the floor).

Triangle Y – Saturday, April 4th at 8:30 a.m.

April 4th
 
Rotarians needed: 25-50
 
Lead: Kurtis Dawson – kurtistucsonrotary@gmail.com
 
Come help Tri Y get ready for the kids that will attend summer camp. Camp improvement projects include landscaping, trail clearing, and more. The day starts at 8:30a.m. and finishes in the early afternoon with a break for lunch.
Adopt-A-Road Cleanup! Saturday, April 18th
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.
 
Hope to see you there on April 18th
 
Lee “Clean Streets” Olitzky
Save The Date - The Event - April 22


📅 Mark Your Calendars!

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!

Desert Spirits Fellowship - May 6

Desert Spirits Fellowship – Mark Your Calendar!

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!

Community Food Bank - Save the Date - May 9

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) 

Thanks!!!

From the Community Food Bank dynamic duo-

Marcia Krumwiede - MARCIALK33@outlook.com  
and
Lori Schroeder - Lori.Schroeder1@gmail.com

TLT Meeting - May 21
2026 TLT meeting schedule.
 
May 21 Tuesday
Aug 18 Tuesday
Sept 17 Thursday 
Oct 15 Thursday
Make an Impact with Just a Click – Donate to the RCT Foundation Today
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!

Speakers
Mar 25, 2026
No Lunch Meeting
Apr 01, 2026
All to Register
Apr 08, 2026
"Events Around Town"
Apr 15, 2026
Mister Car Wash
View entire list
Upcoming Events
Hiking Fellowship - Phoneline Trail
Mar. 21, 2026
 
TRAK - March 21
TRAK
Mar. 21, 2026
8:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.
 
Replacement/Social Mixer ~ Trident Grill II ~ 03/25/26
Mar. 25, 2026
5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
 
Golf Fellowship - March 27
Mar. 27, 2026
 
April 1, 2026 Meeting ~ TCC, Senator Mark Kelly
Tucson Convention Center
Apr. 01, 2026
12:00 p.m. – 1:20 p.m.
 
Triangle Y Ranch - April 4
Apr. 04, 2026 8:30 a.m.
 
Hiking Fellowship - Bisbee 1000 Road Trip!!
Apr. 11, 2026
 
Tucson Clean & Beautiful - March 7
Apr. 18, 2026 8:15 a.m.
 
TRAK - April 19
TRAK
Apr. 19, 2026
8:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.
 
Whisky Fellowship - May 6
May 06, 2026
6:15 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
 
View entire list
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