Kurt, who has spoken to us before about nuclear fusion, addressed the future of space flight and how this new technology may increase our capability for it.
Raul Bujanda
FBI Special Agent
October 23 Speaker
Special Agent in Charge Raul Bujanda delighted the audience with an uplifting and encouraging presentation. A native of Texas, Raul received his degree in Mathematics, and began his career teaching High School students. With such a small age difference between him and his students, he then switched to teaching 5th Grade. Hoping for something different, and with the encouragement of his high school sweetheart turned wife, he began his work in the government. His career is long and varied, and through the years, his dedication and intentionality led him to various parts of the country, as he was always asking himself, “what’s next.” Though the work may have been different with each move, Raul’s underlying mission was to be “someone who tries my very best to care for those I love the very most, which is all of you.” With his insight into world events and politics, he stated that there are adversaries within our systems, and their intentions are to keep us from knowing what is really happening around the world. He stated, “we all should be alert and be thoughtful in our understanding, but don’t let the rhetoric get in your head.” Social media in all its forms are just a distraction and is not what this country was built on. He encouraged club members to find a work/life balance and maintain high standards of conduct. By being involved and informed, we can be a part of community work and decisions, not just a spectator of that which is happening around us. When we share our care with others, we can keep reaching out to your neighbors and friends, making a difference for those WE love the most. Thank you, SAC Bujanda, for being a fine example of integrity & dedication, and for sharing your thoughts and stories with our club.
Denmark Exchange Student
Line H. Steffensen
Sandy presents appreciation gift to Raul
Marty announces donations for Saranam
THANK YOU to Jill Cook and family for hosting a wonderfully cozy and festive Balloon Fiesta viewing party breakfast at her home on Sunday, October 13.
A HUGE THANK YOU to Norm Liss, Sondra Carpenter, and many other club members for creating an exciting and memorable Rotary Youth Exchange Balloon Fiesta Weekend for six of our inbound Exchange Students from across our District.
Watch for more information about a special VIRTUAL GOLF TOURNAMENT at Pars and Rec Golf and Social Shop, benefiting Polio Plus.
Around the Club
Paul Harris Awards at the
Foundation Dinner
Zachary Anaya PH
From Chet Stewart
For the fine job he has done emceeing events
Mark Omerod PH
For his contributions to Rotary
Eladio Muniz PH+2
From Monica Padilla
For the Backpack program
Cathy Mazuranich PH+2
From Monica Padilla
For the Backpack program
J J Jain PH+3
For his contributions to the Rotary Foundation
Marty Padilla PH+8
Marty Padilla Major Donor Level 1
Monica Padilla Major Donor Level 1
Chet and Diane Stewart Major Donor Level 2
Lanny and Becky Sigler Major Donor Level 2
Caroll Follingstad
We enjoyed the Vocational Presentation given by new member Caroll Folingstad and learned even more about someone we’ve called a friend for years! Caroll’s father and her husband Richard were Rotarians, so of course she has known the ins-and-outs of our programs, projects, and activities for quite some time. Many members encouraged her to join over the years, but it was only after Richard’s passing and because of her friendship with Ina Miller that she decided to join.
Caroll’s family has been in New Mexico since the 1800s, and as a native New Mexican herself, Caroll grew up in Santa Fe and attended UNM. She earned her first degree in History & Psychology, and years later as her daughter entered high school, Caroll decided to return to learning herself, this time studying Accounting & Finance. For many years she worked as a CPA, and currently co-owns several small companies with her sisters, responsible for the accounting and organizational tasks.
Because of her financial acumen and her caring insight into the needs of our community, Caroll is a valued member of our Del Norte Foundation Board. She comes to our club with many friends already, but says she looks forward to making many more. We thank you, Caroll, for joining our Rotary Family!
Joe Swickard
Joe Swickard began his Vocational Talk by stating jokingly that in his career, he “led a life of crime!” He worked for the Detroit Free Press covering stories ranging from drug issues, the mob, and even Tonya Harding’s tumultuous life and controversies. He wrote a series of human stories behind the initial introduction of Fentanyl into the Detroit community and saw first-hand how tragic and devastating this addiction can be. Joe also covered overseas assignments and was honored with a National Emmy for his work. After retiring in 2012, he and his wife relocated to Albuquerque to join their daughter, enjoying time together in a new city. He stated that he enjoys his Rotary Del Norte Club membership because he can grow new friendships and broaden his community involvement. With his keen observation skills, his kindness, and his quick wit, Joe is indeed a great friend and a wonderful club member.
Chili Cook-off at Donette's!
Monica's voted the best out of lots of good stuff!
Save the Dates
Wednesday, November 13 – Regular Club Meeting honoring our Veterans; 11:30 AM – guest speakers are Brock Wolff and Jerry Becker with the Veterans Integration Center
Wednesday, November 20 – Regular Club Meeting; 11:30 AM – guest speaker Dr Yolanda Sanchez, UNM Cancer Center
Friday, December 6 – First Friday Happy Hour hosted by Bob and Sandy Rausch; 5:30 PM; Holiday Festive attire; bring a savory or sweet treat to share; BYOB
Sunday, December 8 – ABQ Del Norte Holiday Party; Reception 5:00 PM – 5:30 PM followed by plated dinner – choice of chicken, salmon, or filet mignon ($45/person); The Rancher’s Club; Holiday Festive attire; RSVP to Donette Wagner
Wednesday, December 11 – Regular Club Meeting; 11:30 AM; club elections; mid-year financial report; guest speaker – Ross Anderson – speed skiing record holder
Wednesday, December 18 – Regular Club Meeting; Holiday Celebration with many surprises; last meeting of 2024!!
Friday, January 3 – First Friday Happy Hour – White Elephant Exchange – hosted by Kathie Williams; details coming
Friday, February 7 – First Friday Happy Hour hosted by Alice Mehlberg; 5 PM – 7 PM
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The President's Corner
Dear Fellow Rotarians,
As we enter November, the Holiday season is upon us, bringing the spirit of gratitude, celebration, and fellowship. Our Club is buzzing with activities, and I’m thrilled to share all that’s coming up.
First, a heartfelt thank you to Kim Helm, our International Foundation Chair, and her dedicated committee members for the tremendous success of our recent Rotary Foundation Dinner. We had an outstanding turnout, celebrating our members' generous contributions to Rotary International’s charitable initiatives. Your support enables us to make a real difference in communities worldwide, and I am deeply grateful to each of you who helps advance our mission. We even raised $1,000 for the Rotary Foundation by auctioning off District Governor Yasser Murga’s gift basket! Thanks to Rotarian Lanny Sigler (Rotary Club of Albuquerque) for his generous donation!
November also saw a fantastic Chili Cook-Off at Donette Wagner’s home, where good food and good company warmed up the crisp fall evening. Congratulations to Monica Padilla, who took home the honors for best chili! Thanks to all who participated and brought their enthusiasm to this lively gathering. Moments like these highlight the strength of our Rotary family.
In keeping with the spirit of service and gratitude, our November 13 meeting will be dedicated to honoring our Veteran Rotarians. We are privileged to spotlight the incredible work of the new Veteran’s Integration Center. This event will serve as a reminder of our veterans' sacrifices and our gratitude for their dedication to our nation and Rotary. Thanks to USAF CMSGT (retired) Fred Bryant for organizing this program.
Please remember that we will have another meeting on November 20 because Thanksgiving falls on the fourth week of the month.
Looking ahead to December, mark your calendars! We’re excited to host our Club Holiday Party at the Rancher's Club at the Crowne Plaza Hotel on December 8. This festive evening promises an elegant setting, a delicious meal, and holiday cheer. And on December 18, our regular Wednesday Club meeting will be transformed into a holiday celebration with surprises you won’t want to miss!
As always, I am grateful to serve as your President. I look forward to celebrating this season of giving with you and wish each of you a season filled with joy, fellowship, and gratitude.