Congratulations to Ruth Ronan, who was named the Rotary Club of Albuquerque Del Norte Rotarian of the Quarter. Ruth has been a Rotarian since 1998 and is our club's photographer and meeting pianist. She is a world traveler, a talented writer, a nationally recognized weaver, a dedicated civic volunteer, a generous donor, and a wonderful friend. Congratulations, Ruth... may we all live a life as long and fulfilling as yours!
November 13th Speaker
Brock Wolff
For our meeting honoring Veterans in our club and across the nation, it was fitting to welcome Brock Wolff, CEO of the Veterans Integration Center in Albuquerque. He began by thanking the Fundraising Committee for their commitment to the Folds Gala.
Over the years, there have been changes and adaptations within the organization based on funding, location, and leadership. However, they have always remained true to their Mission Statement: To enable Veterans and their families to achieve stable housing, financial security, and a renewed sense of community. Data shows that 1 in 10 unhoused individuals are Veterans, and the fastest growing population of unhoused veterans in New Mexico is WOMEN.
Those who choose to participate in the VIC programs are treated with dignity and respect and follow a treatment plan that is individualized according to need. The new campus reflects the values of the organization, with residential areas for men, women, and families. Other areas include spaces for outdoor activities, quiet reflection, and receiving groceries. Because of the excellent work done by staff, 68% of clients working with the VIC are permanently housed one year after beginning the program.
Clearly, this is incredibly important work happening in our community. We value the efforts of our club members who volunteer with this organization and are thankful for the services provided to those who have served our country.
November 20th Speaker
Dr. Yolanda Sanchez
Dr. Yolanda Sanchez is a dynamic speaker and began her presentation sharing her history with Rotary. Her father was a Rotarian, which led her to choose to spend a year abroad as a Rotary Youth Exchange Student. She expressed her gratitude to Rotarians around the world who serve their communities in a variety of ways.
Dr. Sanchez is the Director of the University of New Mexico Comprehensive Cancer Center, which is a part of the New Mexico Cancer Research Alliance. This hospital also holds the "Comprehensive" designation from the National Cancer Institute, meaning that they provide patients with the most advanced, scientifically based cancer care in the world, delivered in a caring, supportive environment. Conducting innovative research is top priority, and using that information leads to using the findings to create interventions, preventative measures, and recovery results.
In addition to being a highly accomplished physician and leader in the medical field, Dr. Sanchez is a passionate humanitarian. She is making valiant efforts to build a diverse leadership team and provide sensitive, caring services to our culturally rich community. We are so thankful for the work that Dr. Sanchez and her team are doing for those battling cancer here in our state.
Around the Club
Welcome new member Matt Adams
Bikes and Helmets Bring Holiday Joy to Hawthorne Elementary
Rotarian Nancy Pressley-Naimark, our Club Board Secretary, shared the serendipitous series of events that led to the donation of 20 bikes and helmets to students at Hawthorne Elementary School. “My husband, Edward, and I were walking in the neighborhood when we stopped to chat with our neighbor, Steve Echols. He mentioned he had lost his storage place and asked if we knew anyone who might need a bike. Steve has been fixing up and donating bikes and helmets through Wings for Life, a non-profit supporting families of incarcerated individuals. Immediately, I thought of our Rotary club,” Nancy recalls.
From that simple conversation, a fantastic opportunity was set into motion. Through the efforts of our Community Service Committee, chaired by Jacqui Bernstein, 20 bikes and helmets were delivered to Hawthorne Elementary School just in time to bring Christmas joy to children in need.
“We couldn’t have done this without a team effort,” Jacqui shared. “A huge thank-you to Steve Echols for donating the bikes and to Eladio Muniz and Gary Fresquez for picking them up and ensuring they were delivered safely. Special thanks to Alice Mehlberg for getting the helmets to me. Together, we’ve made Christmas special for several children in our community.”
This project beautifully demonstrates the Rotary spirit of Service Above Self, reminding us how small connections can lead to significant acts of kindness. Thank you to all who made this heartwarming effort possible!
Del Norte Rotarians Spread Holiday Cheer
In the spirit of giving, the Rotary Club of Albuquerque Del Norte has made significant strides this holiday season by supporting local organizations dedicated to uplifting our community. Recently, Rotarians contributed financially to three impactful initiatives: Saranam, Hawthorn Elementary, and the APD Benny Hargrove Holiday Celebration, which benefits victims of violent crimes.
On Saturday, November 23rd, Rotarians delivered 25 Thanksgiving food baskets to Saranam, ensuring that families in need could enjoy a festive meal. Just a few days later, on Tuesday, November 26th, the team continued their efforts by providing 5 additional baskets to Hawthorn Elementary. Both organizations expressed their heartfelt gratitude for the generosity shown by the Del Norte Rotarians, which truly exemplifies the spirit of community support.
Looking ahead, the APD Benny Hargrove Holiday Celebration is scheduled for Thursday, December 19th. This event aims to bring joy and comfort to victims of violent crimes during the holiday season. Stay tuned for more details as we approach this meaningful occasion!
Together, our Rotarians are making a difference and spreading hope this holiday season. Thank you to everyone who has supported these initiatives!
East Coast Beware!
Storm Coming!
We bid a fond farewell to Mike Skolnick as he leaps boldly into a new future and new adventure. In President Sandy’s remarks, she noted that Mike has been a beacon of positivity and is known for injecting FUN and FUNDS into important Rotary projects. As you might imagine, Mike has already been networking and connecting with Rotarians in his new hometown, and we know he will continue to lead a busy, purposeful, and active lifestyle. Thank you Mike for your legacy of service here in Albuquerque, and we can’t wait to play a few rounds of golf with you in North Carolina!
In addition to reading this monthly newsletter, be sure to check your email, visit our website, or follow us on social media. We are PEOPLE OF ACTION with so many “will it be fun” activities and projects. We encourage you to stay involved, build goodwill in our community, and better friendships with other club members!
Save The Dates
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
Wednesday, January 8, Regular Club Meeting – Special Guest, District Governor Yasser Murga
Wednesday, January 22, Regular Club Meeting – ANNUAL BUSINESS TRADE SHOW
Friday, February 7 – First Friday Happy Hour hosted by Alice Mehlberg; 5:30 PM; bring a savory or sweet treat to share; BYOB
Caring Hearts
Jerry Becker expressed his thanks for all the support and care he received over the past months as he has been recovering. Jim Quick awarded Jerry a special “Rotarian Purple Heart” as a fun honorarium for sustaining his injury while on duty!
Steve Becker reports that he is doing well following his surgery and is taking time to rest and receive the care he needs. He is able to work remotely and appreciates the calls and messages from Rotarians.
The President's Corner
Dear Fellow Rotarians,
As we approach the end of 2024, I am amazed by all we have accomplished in the first half of this Rotary year. Our vibrant club has made a remarkable impact, and I’m so grateful for the energy, dedication, and fellowship we share.
Congratulations to Ruth Ronan, our Rotarian of the First Quarter! Ruth’s 26 years of service, her leadership on countless committees, and her creative contributions, including club pianist, photographer, and silent auction guru, are truly inspiring. Thank you, Ruth, for your unwavering commitment to Service Above Self!
A warm welcome to Matt Adams, who has joined our Rotary family. We are excited to have you join us and can’t wait to see your impact on us.
A heartfelt thank-you goes to Nancy Pressley-Naimark for leading the donation of 20 bikes and helmets to Hawthorne Elementary School. This project has brought joy and opportunity to children in our community and is a shining example of how we can make a difference together.
I also want to express my deep gratitude to Monica Padilla, the Satellite Club, Jacqui Bernstein, and the Community Service Committee for their incredible work leading and organizing the annual Saranam Thanksgiving baskets and the Angel Giving Tree. Your efforts have brought hope and joy to families in need, demonstrating the heart and spirit of Rotary in action.
As we look forward to December, we have a busy and festive schedule:
Holiday Happy Hour: Join us on December 6 for fellowship and fun to kick off the season at my home for a festive gathering with friends and good cheer.
Holiday Dinner: On December 8, we’ll gather at the Rancher’s Club for a special evening of fine dining and camaraderie. Sherri Wells and the Club Service/Fellowship Committee coordinated this event.
Club Elections: At our club meeting on December 11, we’ll elect next year’s leadership and hear from Ross Anderson, a world-class speed skater.
Seasonal Celebration Club Meeting: On December 18, we’ll close out the year with a heartwarming celebration featuring a special singing ensemble, The Enchanters, which promises to bring us the sounds of the season and leave us filled with holiday spirit.
This season of giving and reflection reminds me how fortunate we are to be part of a club that genuinely lives the Rotary motto of Service Above Self. We have touched lives together, strengthened our community, and built lasting friendships.
On behalf of our club’s leadership, I wish you and your families a joyful holiday season and all the best for a happy, healthy, and impactful 2025!