Dr. HUGH THOMPSON gave the inspiration that included quotes from Dr. Martin Luther King, Nelson Mandela, and others, and connected their words with Rotary ideals. AIMEE GRAVES led us in the pledge and song (“The Star Spangled Banner”) accompanied by our own musical talent GARY HIRSCH.
ASHLEY ELAINE YORK introduced our guests and visiting Rotarians, assisted by ALLYN BULZOMI who introduced Cathy Bohland as the new Pima County Director of Human Resources, simultaneously inviting her to join our Club and reminding us of his pending retirement.
We had two excellent Birthday Rotarians: CHRIS EDWARDS reminded us of our priorities (low prices, or ….Rotary!!) and expressed amazement at how quickly his eleven years have passed in Rotary GORDON SHAW thanked everyone for the help celebratin
g his birthday, especially Past President BOB SHAFF for his gracious fellowship.
g his birthday, especially Past President BOB SHAFF for his gracious fellowship.The Dynamic Duo of Rotary, President Elect Nominee BOB LOGAN and Past President CHARLOTTE HARRIS made Paul Harris presentations to the following Rotarians:
- PAUL HALLUMS received his Paul Harris plus one and urged us to continue to “drive like hell” now that he’s sold his driving school to his son.
- JOHN LEWIS received his Paul Harris plus three in addition to being noted for his philanthropy raising $125,000 for an Aspen fire truck.
- JEANNINE LEWIS received a surprise Paul Harris from husband JOHN, while both should have received an award for most adorable married couple.
- MARY MARTIN received her Paul Harris plus four, and emphasized all the good Rotary International does around the world.
- ALAN ROGERS received his Paul Harris plus eight, and although he has a lengthy list of respected medical publications, an even longer list of sponsored Rotarians, the ultimate honor of first place in category for his Shelby Kit Car has eluded him. Keep trying ALAN!
President CLI
FF announced the results of our March Madness Membership Drive: Overall, the drive netted over 170 visitors and scores of new membership applications, led by the winning team: MARGARET HIGGINS’ Kangaroos!!
FF announced the results of our March Madness Membership Drive: Overall, the drive netted over 170 visitors and scores of new membership applications, led by the winning team: MARGARET HIGGINS’ Kangaroos!!Sergeant at Arms DALE BERG led the fastest raffle ever, followed by an auction of tickets to the hockey game and the following announcements:
- Past President DAVE GALLAHER asked for more volunteers for the annual Triangle Y Ranch Project on April 6 and 7.
- JOHN LEWIS made his final Home Hospitality announcement after 73 consecutive weeks, announcing venues and reminding us to sign up.
- JAN GREEN introduced Julie Suek, daughter of JOE NEVIN. Julie reminded us all of how much we miss JOE by beginning her presentation with “My fellow Rotarians” and told us that JOE had provided for a $10,000 donation to the Foundation for the Vocational Fund and additional Paul Harris Fellows.
- Past President JIM LUBINSKI invited everyone to participate in the DM 50 Golf Tournament by playing, sponsoring servicemen or funding a tee.
Past President JIM MURPHY introduced our speaker: Jon Baker, the Executive Director of the Southwestern Fair Commission. Jon recounted how the operations of the Fairgrounds have produced $8.6 million for reinvestment into the grounds resulting in an expansion of the types and numbers of events hosted each year. The Fair Grounds have an estimated $34 million economic impact in Pima County each year, hosting the Fair, 125 horse show days, 10 RV rallies, and multiple musical events. The Fair also hosts a Special Needs Day and Read and Ride programs to promote literacy. Jon signed a book for our lending library: “Some Bugs”.President Cliff closed the meeting with a toast wishing the Fair Commission continued success.
