Welcome back to the Tucson Convention Center this beautiful Wednesday afternoon!
PRESIDENT MARK IRVIN rang the bell at 12:15p and started the meeting. He shared that we no longer need to wear a mask in City of Tucson buildings. Then PRESIDENT MARK IRVIN asked all those attending for a moment of silence for Ukraine.
JONI CONDIT then shared that the Foundation Board approved the matching funds up to $10,000 for the disaster relief fund for Ukraine. We as Rotarians are always looking for ways to help; you can donate to the cause through the RI Foundation or the Shelter Box. Please see CHARLOTTE HARRIS for more information on the Foundation donation match. There will be an email sent out for our members with all the details.
We were led in the Pledge and Song by DENA KERN. The song for today was “My Country Tis of Thee” with assistance on the keyboard from KHRIS DODGE. The Inspirational Moment was given by JOHN DUVAL. JOHN shared some pearls of wisdom he found while cleaning out his desk. Facts about geese and flying in formation. The formation helps the entire flock and supports their neighbors.
PRESIDENT MARK introduced the SERGEANT AT ARMS, KHRIS DODGE, who then introduced our guests and visiting Rotarians. There were lots of guests today, with over 30 guests in attendance.
Today’s Program was introduced with a video about Col. Sandra Wilson and Col. Jason Dickinson, both very accomplished professionals. Col. Wilson and Col. Dickinson shared the mission of
AZ Air National Guard with the 162nd Mission Brief with our Rotary club today. We watched an amazing video of the 162nd created by the Air National Guard, enabling us to see the jet and UAVs in action! After their presentation we had time for a few great questions from the audience. The book “Take off! All About Airplanes” was given to Col. Wilson and Col. Dickinson to sign for our Make Way for Books Library as we continue to support children’s literacy in Tucson.
Now onto the birthday for this week. JON WANG celebrated his birthday yesterday, 3/15. Happy Birthday JON!
Two new members were then introduced: DENA KERN was introduced by GARY FRANKS and DOUG LOWELL by HUGH THOMPSON. Welcome to the Club you two!!!
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Next, Paul Harris Presentation by CHAR HARRIS. CHAR introduced DOT KRET’s sons, David Lex and Nathan Lex. Both were presented with a gift and their Paul Harris Certificates. 
The Raffle and King of Clubs game presented by SERGEANT AT ARMS KHRIS DODGE. But first there was an auction of a F-16 simulator ride, which went for $500. It was so popular that there was another simulator ride auctioned off; a ride in an A-10 simulator! Thank you CLIFF BOWMAN! The raffle ticket was drawn by Col. Wilson, but The King of Clubs card was not drawn. Better luck next week!
Announcements:
PRESIDENT MARK IRVIN gave an update on #Irv’s Fly-Fishing Fund and showed a picture of CHUCK and MATT FREITAS holding fishes (one real, one a statue). We are working on our way towards $6,000 in the fund! Thank you to all those that have shared their pictures and donations.
PRESIDENT MARK IRVIN reminded everyone of the Time Capsule ceremony at Hotel Congress on 4/21 at 5:45p.
KHRIS DODGE asked those interested to join him for hiking on Saturday, 3/19 at Pontatoc Ridge, meet at Finger Rock Trail at 7:15am.
BRUCE JACOBS reminded the Club of the mixer at Proof on March 30th from 5:30p-7:30p. He then slipped in that PRESIDENT MARK IRVIN is being honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award with the Boys Scouts of America.
CHUCK SAWYER gave a rousing update on March Madness. Now is the time to get these guests in and get new potential members in too. Get to winning points for your team!
PRESIDENT MARK IRVIN closed with a final thank you to all our members, guests, and virtual attendees. The scholarship cups are on the table if you’d like to donate and, remember to return your badge in your numbered slot on your way out.
PRESIDENT MARK gave the final toast before ringing the bell to adjourn the meeting.
