President JEN HOFFMAN called the meeting to order at 12 noon at the beautiful Hacienda Del Sol with 76 Rotarians attending the weekly meeting. The opening of the meeting featured the Pledge of Allegiance and Song led by KYM ADAIR, from Arizona Bowl.
The inspirational moment was introduced by JAN GREEN featuring a poem and an Irish Proverb about exercising patience.
The lunch featured a delicious salmon delight and some healthy vegetables. As always Hacienda Del Sol banquet staff were attentive to the hungry Rotarians.
President JEN kicked off the formal part of the meeting by thanking all of the enthusiastic audience attending the meeting and introduced eight quests.
Today’s program featuring international singer Nick Gallardo, from “Valens to Valli,” was introduced by Rotarian and keyboard musician and entertainer, member KHRIS DODGE. A lively concert 
featuring many songs Rotarians could sing and dance to quite a surprise and welcomed by the membership. In addition to an occasional outbreak of individual rhythmic dancing to the music, a continuous Congo line was observed during the final song of Nick’s rowdy performance. Clearly a much-appreciated approach to our keynote speaker program as the cheering audience asked for MORE, when Nick was scheduled to end his performance many minutes before according to the program. Afterward with a big smile following a standing ovation for his performance, Nick was eager to sign the book for Make Way For Books, entitled “Wild Symphony”.Not to be anti-climactic today’s Birthday featured PETER BEAHAN, a Rotarian since June 2013, who began his career as a bartender at the now extinct, BUM STEER.
MARK IRVIN, President Elect, was called upon to introduce two new members to Rotary, ANNA LANZI, Marketing: i3 Solutions and KYM ADAIR, Executive Director of the Arizona Bowl. Congratulations to our newest members.
CHAR HARRIS was called up to honor our latest Paul Harris recipients. Grace Olsen, daughter of GARY OLSEN was presented her certificate along with LYNN STRUTHERS PEATE and WAYNE PEATE.GARY OLSEN, Sergeant at Arms jumped into action with the famous Rotary raffle with no winner and several announcements. JEN gave us an update on her “Running for Rotary” goal running 948 miles to date and thanked everyone for donating. Her goal is 1000 miles.
WAYNE WOOD former medical doctor and community activist was honored with his Blue Badge.
Additional announcements were from BRUCE JACOBS who announced the next mixer will be held at “The Sands Club” on Tuesday, June 15. Finally, the “Passing of the Gavel from JEN to MARK will be held on June 26 at the Westward Look (on the roof top) from 6 pm to 10 p.m. Westward Look will also feature a special $99 rate for both Friday and Saturday overnight stays.
Our next meeting is June 9 and features David Turpie from the Arizona Historical Society. JEN reminded everyone to make sure to pick up your Car Show tickets.
Meeting was adjourned at 1: 20 with a toast in honor of Memorial Day from JFK. To view the entire meeting go t: https://youtu.be/mJ6QurRWrjg.
