Club Information
Welcome to the Rotary Club of Marana (AZ)
We meet In Person
Tuesdays at 7:00 a.m.
Vista Academy
8333 N Silverbell Rd
Marana, AZ 85743
United States of America
Hybrid format on the first 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Tuesdays of the month; via Zoom only on the 4th Tuesday of the month. On the 5th Tuesday, you’ll find us at a community service project or enjoying each other’s company at a club social.
Club Meeting Minutes

Meeting summary

Members in Attendance    Josh B, Bob B, Harold B, Laura C, Cindy D,  John D, don J, Kathy J, Peter M, Beckie P, Beverly S

Quick recap

The meeting focused on planning and coordinating the upcoming Tour de Cookie event, including logistics for rider packet pickup, setup, and volunteer assignments. Laura provided updates on permits, insurance, and route details, while Gregg confirmed the availability of signage and materials. Volunteers were assigned to various shifts on Friday and Saturday, with specific roles for packet pickup, booth support, and route monitoring. The group discussed the need for additional permits from Pima County and agreed to follow up on this issue. Gregg confirmed that t-shirts, bags, and other supplies would be ready for distribution by Friday morning. The team also addressed the need for a club banner at the event and agreed to bring one if weather conditions permit.

Next steps

Summary

Happy Bucks:

  • Bob – New medication raised his energy levels and eased his ailments – good living through drugs!
  • Don – Happy about the UA men’s basketball game since they clinched the conference title at home on senior night
  • Kathy – cheered the Wildcats from the comfort of home
  • Mike – out of town visitors have been fun to be around
  • Josh – Zella testing (English proficiency for ESL kiddos) finishes this week
  • John – enjoyed watching grandkids dance to Wii Dance
  • Harold – please with the Tour de Cookie success so far ($29, 647)
  • Bev – Husband Joe volunteered to ride Friday to put up the signs for Tour de Cookie directions
  • Gregg – enjoyed a three day weekend in Pinetop
  • Beckie – happy to be able to attend our meeting in person (we were thrilled to see her!)
  • Laura – happy to see how the club has pulled together to make Tour de Cookie so successful; she also has a visiting bobcat momma hanging in her tree
  • Cindy – thanked Harold for his reliability and the trust we have in him as our treasurer

Club Updates and Financial Success

The meeting covered updates on upcoming events and club activities. The Arizona Traveling Museum will be at Discover Marana on Wednesday and Thursday, with specific times for setup and public viewing. A human trafficking seminar was announced for April 13th at Saddlebrook Ranch from 11am to 2pm, featuring speakers including an assistant attorney general and Marana police detectives. The club reported strong financial performance, having raised $29,647, which exceeds last year's total of $25,000. 

Event Permit and Logistics Update

Laura provided an update on the event planning, confirming they received a permit from Marana Parks and Rec and thanked John for handling the insurance issue. She outlined logistics for Friday's concession stand setup and Saturday's ride day activities at Ramada No. 5, including t-shirt and supplies distribution. A new challenge emerged when Pima County requested an additional permit, which Laura plans to investigate further, potentially with John's assistance if additional insurance requirements are needed.

Event Logistics and Volunteer Coordination

The team coordinated logistics for an upcoming event, discussing setup times and volunteer assignments. They agreed to load materials on Friday night and set up by 6:45 AM Saturday morning at the Ramada location. Laura will meet with Mike from Continental Little League at 9 AM Friday to access the concession area, with Josh offering to help coordinate key access. The team confirmed they have 378 cookies ready and discussed distributing rider packets from 10:30 AM to 5:30 PM on Friday, with 500 copies of an informational insert to be printed. Multiple volunteers were assigned to various shifts throughout Friday and Saturday, including Peter, Don, Becky, and others who will help with setup, monitoring cookie booths, and managing the concession area.

 

Attendees: John Dooling, Don Jorgensen, Kathy Jorgensen, Bob Bishop, Harold Burtzloff, Beckie Penman, Laura Clymer, Gregg Hansen, Mark Gologoski, Beveryly Smithwick, Michael Ottman, Cindy Dooling

Meeting summary

Quick recap

The meeting focused on finalizing details for the upcoming Tour de Cookie event, including registration numbers, t-shirt orders, and logistics for the March 7th ride. The group discussed that they were close to reaching their target of 500 riders, with current registration at 442, and decided to keep registration open while adjusting cookie stop requirements from 750 to 600 cookies. The team coordinated plans for t-shirt distribution, with Greg handling orders by Thursday, and discussed email communication plans for riders and cookie stops. Beverly agreed to create a GPS map of the ride route, while Laura would prepare rider information materials and coordinate with Bob, Gregg, and Michael on email communications. The conversation ended with discussions about improving organizational processes for future events, as the group acknowledged the need to better document roles and responsibilities following the loss of their previous coordinator Dan.

Next steps

Summary

GPS Route and Map Updates

Beverly agreed to create a GPS route from Sportsman's Warehouse to Sanders, which will be used to update the website and provide navigation guidance for riders. Laura will circulate a map showing all cookie stop locations, and Kathy expressed gratitude for the maps, which should help with rider orientation at Crossroads. John confirmed that the insurance issue has been resolved, and Gregg will embed the updated GPS map on the website.

Event Logistics and Communication Plan

The group discussed logistics for an upcoming event, focusing on packet pickup procedures and communication with riders. They agreed to send one combined email to riders about both the More Than a Bed donation request and ride details, with plans to send it multiple times rather than creating separate emails. Beckie confirmed she would deliver cookies to various locations, while the team coordinated plans for packet pickup at Crossroads on Friday starting at 10 AM, which would include t-shirts, maps, wristbands, and lapel pins. The group also discussed the need to print color maps on 8.5x11 paper and include sponsor logos.

Event Registration and Logistics Planning

The team discussed the registration status for an upcoming event, with Beckie reporting they were close to 500 riders, which would be their third consecutive year reaching this milestone. Gregg agreed to remove the t-shirt registration option by the next day, while keeping overall registration open, as they were confident about reaching 500 riders. The group decided to target 600 cookies for the vendors, and Beckie requested help determining the correct number of t-shirts to allocate for various sponsors and cookie stops, with Gregg offering to check with Dan about historical distributions.

Tour de Cookies Logistics Planning

Beverly offered to help by riding back and forth to monitor the event and assist with communication, while Harold suggested creating a pamphlet to document procedures due to recent staffing changes. The team also discussed the need to better organize committees and responsibilities for future events.

 

Meeting summary
Quick recap

Members in attendance  Josh B,  Bob B,  Harold,  Cindy D,  John D,  Mark G,  Gregg H,  Don J,  Kathy  J,  Michael O,   

The meeting focused on updates and discussions within the Rotary Club of Marana, including the induction of Joshua Bayne as a new member and the presentation of District Governor Bruce Monroe's focus areas for the year. Bruce highlighted the importance of achieving specific district and club goals, emphasizing membership growth, Polio Plus eradication efforts, and community service. He encouraged clubs to set and work towards clear goals, participate in foundation initiatives, and enhance their visibility and impact. The club discussed upcoming events, including a district conference and the International Convention in Taipei, and shared updates on various projects and donations. The conversation ended with a call to action for members to engage more actively in service projects and to contribute to the Polio Plus fund.
Next steps
Tour de Cookie:
•    Follow up with registered riders to collect missing shirt sizes and contact information, focusing on those who have not provided sizes yet
•    Divide up the list of bike shops (and other suggested locations such as fire stations, police stations, Marana City) among team members for flyer distribution, and coordinate with Andrea to determine optimal distribution points
•    Include a request in the next rider email blast for participants to bring new socks or underwear for donation when picking up their packages
Other:
•    Aleta: Collect RSVPs for the February 20th Dr. Thomas Wagner presentation and manage attendance list (limit 35 people)
•    Club Officers: Work on setting club goals for next year and submit to Rotary Club Central
•    Club Members: Consider joining the Polio Plus Society by submitting the form and/or donating $100 per year through rotary.org
•    Club Members: Consider donating to at least one Rotary Foundation category (e.g., Polio Plus, Annual Fund, Disaster Relief Fund)
•    Club Members interested in district roles: Contact Bruce, Emma, or Don to express interest in open district committee positions, including District Local Services Project Chair and District Governor line
•    Club Officers: Review and update club bylaws and sign the new Rotary International Constitution when available
•    Club Members: Submit information on current and past club service projects to the district’s 250th anniversary project database when link is available
•    Club Officers: Attend upcoming district officer training (date TBD) if an incoming officer
•    Club Members: RSVP for Emma’s installation event (June 7 at Western La Paloma) if interested
•    Club Members: RSVP for the September 18-19 district conference at Tubac if interested
•    Club Members: Consider attending the International Convention in Taipei (May 13-17) if possible
•    Club Members: Participate in the Romanian friendship exchange activities as announced
•    Club Officers: Ensure new member Josh is integrated into club activities and responsibilities as appropriate
•    Club Officers: Update and streamline club banking practices and financial reporting as per district recommendations
•    Club Officers: Update club operations manual to align with new Rotary International bylaws and constitution when available
•    Club Officers: Review and update club goals in Rotary Club Central by year end (or as new officers transition)
Summary
Team Updates and Financial Progress
The group discussed several updates and positive developments. Mark shared his excitement about Joshua joining the team and his upcoming trip to LA for Southwest Pets. He also recounted a meaningful reunion with a former student who is now living in Berlin and recently got married. Beckie mentioned selling her pots and making $68. The team celebrated their financial progress, with $23,851 in their account for Tour de Cookie, and received news that the town of Marana waived fees for their tour. They also discussed distributing business cards that promote their website.
Charity Drive and Distribution Planning
Beckie is helping coordinate shirt sizes for over 400 riders and is working on a spreadsheet with their contact information. It was mentioned that a recent email blast was successful and provided feedback on improving future communications. They discussed distributing promotional materials at bike shops, fire stations, police stations, and other locations, with a suggestion to coordinate with Andrea for optimal distribution. The group also planned to ask riders to donate new socks or underwear for a charity drive during the next event. 
Region 6 Rotary Event
AG Aleta Wiener announced an upcoming Region 6 event featuring Dr. Wagner speaking on transcatheter valve innovation at a venue that can accommodate 35 people. He then conducted the induction of Josh as a new member of the Rotary Club of Marana, providing an overview of Rotary's history, principles, and expectations for new members. The district governor concluded by emphasizing Rotary's mission of service and encouraging club improvement through district support.
District Events and Initiatives Update
 District Governor Monro discussed upcoming events and initiatives in the district, including training sessions for incoming officers, the International Convention in Taipei, Emma's installation as the new district governor, and the district conference in September. He highlighted the success of the previous conference, noting early reservations for next year's event. He also emphasized the importance of club improvement in addressing community needs and shared his personal reasons for continuing his involvement in Rotary, including the enjoyment of visiting clubs and learning about their communities.
Rotary 250th Anniversary Planning
The meeting discussed the upcoming 250th anniversary project, which involves creating a database to document community service projects across clubs. Bruce highlighted several open leadership positions, including District Governor roles, and encouraged members to get involved. The discussion also covered Rotary's new emphasis on club goals, with him sharing that districts should have goals to lead by example. Finally, he reviewed Rotary's three main focus areas: polio eradication, membership growth, and peace initiatives, emphasizing the district's commitment to these objectives.
District Strategic Initiatives Review
DG Monro discussed the district's strategic plan and ongoing initiatives, including improving district governor training, updating the constitution and bylaws, and streamlining banking practices. He emphasized the need for clubs to review and sign the new constitution and update their bylaws accordingly. He also highlighted efforts to increase district visibility and collaboration with clubs through active participation in service projects. Finally, he called for more delegation of tasks to club members to support these district-level efforts.
Club Growth and Polio Eradication
DG Bruce discussed membership strategies, emphasizing the potential for significant growth through small increases in club membership. He highlighted the importance of creating a vibrant club experience that aligns with members' interests and community needs. He also addressed the ongoing effort to eradicate polio, urging Rotarians to continue supporting this initiative until the goal is achieved.
Rotary Club Goals and Objectives
DG Monro discussed the importance of supporting Rotary's Polio Plus Society with a $100 annual contribution, emphasizing that it is affordable compared to other expenses like a Starbucks visit. He encouraged clubs to set goals for the upcoming year, as Rotary expects all clubs to have measurable objectives. He highlighted the need for clubs to submit their goals to Rotary Club Central, with the aim of having 50% of clubs achieve this by the end of the year. He also stressed the significance of active participation in projects, contrasting members who financially support initiatives with those who actively engage in service work.

 

 

 

Meeting summary

Attendees: Harold Burtloff, John Dooling, Mark Goligoski, Gregg Hansen, Don Jorgensen, Kathy Jorgensen, Beckie Penman, Beveryly Smithwick, Joshua Bayne, Bob Bishop, Mike Ottman, Cindy Dooling

Rotary Fundraising and Event Updates

The meeting began with the Pledge of Allegiance led by John. Cindy shared updates, including thank you notes from Shelter Box and the No UXO campaign, which has met its goal and is raising additional funds. Upcoming events were discussed, including Monte Carlo Night with the Dove Mountain Rotary in March and Taste of Oro Valley in April. Cindy also introduced Zeffy, a free fundraising tool for non-profits, and suggested exploring it as an alternative to credit card and PayPal payments. The conversation ended with a request for happy bucks, starting with John.

Rotary Club Member Happy Bucks

The meeting began with Harold sharing his experience of attending his first Rotary meeting in 1968 and his subsequent membership. Mike's volunteer work with Foster Kids and his pride seeing the 10 year old receive the Student at the Month, given all the challenges he’s been through. John is simply happy. Gregg appreciates the weather. Bob is finally over his health challenges from a trip to Mexico a couple weeks ago. Mark spent time with his family watching the Super Bowl. Josh is proud of his son's achievements on a traveling football team and professionally, the opportunity to read to school children during Love of Reading week. He also encouraged all of us to visit schools and read to the youngsters. Beckie enjoyed a birthday celebration with her granddaughters, while Beverly expressed happiness at feeling normal after a rough couple of weeks. Don and Kathy described their enjoyable Super Bowl party, highlighting the presence of family and friends, as well as the arrangement that allowed non-football fans to enjoy the event separately. Cindy is excited to travel to Houston. 

The conversation ended with a financial update that the club had over $20,000 in the bank from Tour de Cookie, and Bob led the four-way test to close the meeting.

RTA Ballot Measures Overview

 

The meeting focused on a presentation by Andy Quigley regarding the upcoming RTA (Regional Transportation Authority) ballot measures 418 and 419, which would continue and extend a half-cent sales tax for transportation improvements. Andy explained that the $2.7 billion in estimated tax revenue would fund road reconstruction, transit improvements, and bicycle/pedestrian facilities, with specific projects planned for Marana including Cortero Road and Moore Road. The presentation clarified that while maintenance is not included in the RTA plan, road reconstruction projects would address existing maintenance issues. He emphasized that both measures must pass for any funding to proceed. The presentation concluded with a reminder that voters will receive mail-in ballots for the March 10th election. 

 

 

Meeting summary

Attendees: Bob Bishop, Harold Burzloff,  John Dooling,  Don Jorgensen,  Kathy Jorgensen,  Becky Penman,  Gregg Hansen,  Mark Gologoski,  Mike Ottman, Cindy Dooling  and  Peter Mack

Quick recap

The meeting focused on ShelterBox, a global disaster relief organization, and its evolution over 26 years. Dr. Don Jorgensen, a past district governor and ShelterBox ambassador, presented an update on the organization's work, highlighting its shift from traditional tent distributions to more customized responses based on specific disaster needs. He discussed ShelterBox’s expansion to support 3 million people by 2024, its use of cash aid in some regions, and its ongoing efforts in countries like Syria, Ukraine, and the Philippines. The presentation also covered ShelterBox’s sustainability efforts, including local procurement of supplies and partnerships with other relief organizations. The club was recognized as a Shelter Box Hero Club for its continued support of the organization's mission.

Summary

Club Updates and Social Chats

The meeting began with a discussion about a check that was sent to Dan.  Mark, who picked it up from Contorno's house for Tour de Cookie. The group then engaged in casual conversation about various topics, including lemon muffins made with Laura's lemons and upcoming birthdays. Cindy announced that Bob had earned a new Paul Harris PIN, and the conversation ended with Beckie leading the group in Happy Bucks.

Personal Updates and Disaster Relief

The group shared personal updates, including Mike's brewing experience and Josh's work on Zella testing for English language learners. Peter discussed turning 70 and his recent ankle injury, while Bob reflected on his military connections and encounters with notable figures in the aviation industry. The conversation ended with an introduction to Dr. Don Jorgensen, who was set to speak about ShelterBox and its disaster relief efforts, highlighting his background as a past district governor and author.

ShelterBox’s Global Disaster Relief

Don provided an update on ShelterBox, highlighting its evolution from a Rotary Club project to a global disaster relief organization. He discussed ShelterBox’s growth, including its expansion to support 40 million people worldwide and its shift from distributing physical boxes to providing customized aid based on local needs. He also explained ShelterBox’s use of cash aid, pre-positioned warehouses, and partnerships with local agencies to enhance effectiveness and sustainability. The organization's efforts in various countries, including the Philippines, Syria, and Gaza, were showcased, along with its recent recognition as a Shelter Box Hero Club.

 

 

 

Attendees: Harold Burzloff, John Dooling, Bob Biship, Don Jorgensen, Kathy Jorgensen, Laura Clymer, Becky Penman, Gregg Hansen, Mark Gologoski, Mike Ottman and Cindy Dooling

Main purpose

  • Weekly meeting to discuss Tour de Cookie event planning and coordination
  • Update on new member approvals and potential members
  • Review of financial status and sponsorships

Project status

Issue/TicketStatus
Tour de Cookie Event

• Currently behind in registrations compared to last year ($14,421 vs $18,010)

• Registration deadline for t-shirts is February 21st

• Event date is March 7th

• Target is 750 riders

• Packet pickup will be at Crossroads Park

• Cookie booths are being confirmed with 750 cookies per booth

• Two open booth locations still need to be assigned

New Member Status

• Josh was unanimously approved to join the group

• Installation scheduled for February 17th when District Governor Monroe visits

• Kathleen Cahill from More Than a Bed has expressed interest in joining

Microcredit Program

• Don, Kathy and Bob reported on their visit to Mexico for the microcredit program

• Program provides small loans (average $270 US) to small business owners

• 95% repayment rate

• Primarily women entrepreneurs who often run two businesses

Other topics

  • RYLA feedback: Yvette and Bella reported having an excellent experience at the leadership event
  • Food Bank volunteer opportunity on Thursday with Dove Mountain Rotary from 10am-1pm
  • More Than a Bed volunteer opportunity on February 11th from 11:30am-1:30pm
  • Cindy traveling to Tulsa for Youth Exchange Conference

Action items

  • Gregg
    • Email promotional materials to Cindy for distribution to club presidents
    • Work with Laura on improving the route map clarity
    • Update website with clearer route information
    • Have promotional materials ready for Chamber events
  • Cindy
    • Distribute Tour de Cookie promotional materials to Rotary club presidents
    • Post event information in the Impact newsletter
    • Coordinate with Gregg and Beckie on final booth assignments
  • Mark
    • Check for stored Tour de Cookie signage at the district office
    • Follow up with Lloyd Construction regarding potential sponsorship
  • Laura
    • Obtain certificate of insurance for the town
    • Create map highlighting best parking areas for riders
    • Draft letter for riders with directions
    • Contact local newspapers for publicity
  • Michael
    • Ride the route and take photographs of potentially confusing areas
    • Document directional challenges, particularly at Avra Valley Road
  • Bob
    • Coordinate with Linda and her sister for cookie baking support
  • Beckie
    • Follow up with cookie booths needing assistance
    • Finalize cookie booth assignments with Cindy and Gregg

 

Outgoing Marana Rotary President Andrea De La Cruz presents incoming 2025-26 Club President Cindy Dooling flowers at her installation dinner ceremony at Li’l Abner’s Steakhouse in mid-June.
We enjoyed meeting our neighbors at the 2023 Marana Fall Festival, and look forward to seeing our friends at the town's Holiday Lights and Christmas Tree Lighting from 3 to 9 p.m, Saturday Dec. 2.
Marana Club News
 
The Rotary Club of Marana hosts hybrid meetings. Visitors are always welcome. To receive a link to join our meeting via Zoom, text to 520-909-9162 with your name.
 
 
Club Executives & Directors
President
President Elect
Treasurer
Secretary
Programs Director
Public Relations
The Rotary Foundation
Marana Rotary Foundation Chair
Tour de Cookie Co-Chair
Youth Service
Youth Service
Operations and Technical Support
Upcoming Events
Rotary International
Egyptian Rotary member honored for advancing women’s leadership and community development

Egyptian Rotary member honored for advancing women’s leadership and community development

Barcelona selected to host Rotary International Convention 2029

Barcelona selected to host Rotary International Convention 2029

‘Success is collective,’ says recipient of Rotary’s 2026 Sylvia Whitlock Leadership Award

‘Success is collective,’ says recipient of Rotary’s 2026 Sylvia Whitlock Leadership AwardEgyptian Rotarian has elevated female leaders, promoted microloans, and helped build

MCAT Star Student
  • The Marana Career & Technical High School (MCAT) is an opportunity for Marana High School and Mountain View High School Students to learn and earn academic credit in a non-traditional educational setting. The Marana Rotary Club has recognized students from MCAT for more than 26 years.
 
MCAT "Star Students" honored quarterly for the Rotary year July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2026
 
  • October : Jorge Reyes
  • January : Angel Madrid
 
 
MCAT "Star Students" honored quarterly for the Rotary year July 1, 2024 to June 30, 2025
 
  • September: Zarvia Condova
  • November: Naveah Haish
  • February :  James Hiller
  • April : Loren Roberts
 
 
MCAT "Star Students" honored quarterly for the Rotary year July 1, 2023 to June 30, 2024:
 
  • September: Ysabella Gonzalez
  • April: Princess Ibarra
MCAT "Star Students" honored quarterly for the Rotary year July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2023:
  • April: Carina Murphy
  • February: Christian Maldonado
  • November: Harlie Wagner
MCAT "Students of the Month" for the Rotary year July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2022 were:
  • September: Noah  Romero
  • October: Paris Fisher
  • January: Jake Weller
  • February: Lilliana
  • April: Brisel Riveria
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