It was a entertaining day at Rotary as we learned about the remarkable achievements of the local New Mexico Keshet Dance Company, with the added treat of witnessing some of their talented dancers in action. Our own Maria Montoya Chavez, a Board Member for Keshet, introduced the founder, Shira Greenberg, who has dedicated over 23 years to shaping the company into the vibrant dance resource it is today.
Keshet stands out as one of the few multicultural dance education and presentation companies offering free or low-cost dance activities for all ages and abilities, including those with disabilities, including those in wheelchairs. Their innovative dance program for young offenders within a prison facility earned them the prestigious "Coming Up Taller" award.
This year, Keshet was awarded a $4,500 District Grant from the Rotary Club of Albuquerque Del Norte and an additional $4,500 grant from our Rotary Del Norte Foundation. This $9,000 will fund a new dance floor at the Keshet Center for the Arts location, with our club donating labor for the floor installation in April.
For more details about their organization, visit their website at KeshetArts.org.
Rotary International Reveals 2024-2025 Theme
President-elect Sandy Rausch announced that the upcoming Rotary International President, Stephanie Urchick, has unveiled the theme for the upcoming year: "The Magic of Rotary." Ms. Urchick emphasized that achieving the end of polio and fostering global peace won't happen by simply waving a wand. Instead, she highlighted that the magic is created by the collective efforts of every project completed, every dollar donated, and every new member.
New Member Zac Anaya Shares His Philosophy of Life.
During his vocational talk to the club, Zac Anaya, a new Satellite member, not only shared his impressive work history but also delved into his philosophy of life. Zak is the Senior Vice President at the Perry Group, the #4 Real Estate Team in America. Zac operates across five states. Despite numerous obstacles and setbacks, he has been able to propel his life forward with a driving ambition.
Zac concluded his talk with this advice to the club, "Pursue what you love and what challenges you, and you will achieve success."
Roberto Aguirre Inducted as Newest Del Norte Member
Roberto Aguirre, CEO of the YMCA of Central New Mexico, has joined the Rotary Club of Albuquerque Del Norte. Roberto is a former Rotarian from Texas and has served his club as President. Welcome, Roberto!
Police Officer, Liam King, Recognized as Officer of the Month
Officer King was recognized by the Albuquerque Chief of Police as a highly motivated officer who is known for his quick responses to calls and his dedication to the department. He received a gift certificate to Chello Grill and a Del Norte “survival kit” from President Marty to make his daily job duties easier!
Third Annual Bennie Hargrove
Giving Tree
Our club participated in the third annual Bennie Hargrove Giving Tree event, which took place on December 22, 2023, at the Fraternal Order of Police, and it was a resounding success. The event benefited 42 children who were affected by the repercussions of violent crime in 2023. These children received gifts and actively participated in a range of festive activities, including games and ornament making. The event reached its peak with a visit from Santa Claus, bringing smiles to all in attendance.
The children chosen for this special day were nominated by detectives from APD’s Criminal Investigation Division, specifically recognizing families that had encountered challenging times throughout the year. Beyond bringing happiness to the children, this event served as a poignant reminder of the strength and resilience within our community.
Named in honor of Bennie Hargrove, a brave 13-year-old from Washington Middle School who tragically lost his life in 2021, the Bennie Hargrove Giving Tree event holds a special significance. Bennie's courage in standing up for what was right has left an indelible mark on our community. This event not only celebrates the holiday spirit but also stands as a heartfelt tribute to Bennie's memory, serving as a constant reminder of the values he bravely upheld.
Around the Club
Welcome back member, Zizi Fritz! We have missed you while you were traveling.
Mike Skolnick announced the next club golf tournament will be held on Saturday, May 18 at Santa Ana. The main recipient of the proceeds will be the Veterans Integration Center (VIC). Mike is looking for volunteers for the planning committee.
Mark and Lindy Martinez are celebrating their 25th Wedding Anniversary
John and Cindy Perner are celebrating their 30th Wedding Anniversary.
Ted and Carol Asbury are celebrating their 24th Wedding Anniversary.
Congrats to Maria Montoya Chavez who was recently in the Albuquerque papers and congratulations on her 10th Anniversary as a Del Norte Rotarian.
Happy January Birthdays to Bob Rausch, Mark Rudolph, Steve Becker and Joan Lewis.
Best Wishes to Ron Epps, who just learned he and his wife will be first-time grandparents.
Many thanks to club members from Norm Liss, who announced that we raised $1200 for Locker 505 to replace some of their stolen inventory.
Congratulations to Ina Miller for commemorating the University of Michigan football team on their championship achievement. She was a freshman there in 1948!
Goodbye and good luck to our Immediate Past President, Mary Tieman, who submitted her resignation to the club due to increased work responsibilities. We will miss you, Mary, and hope to see you back again one day.
Resignations were received by 2 of our newest members, Maria Sanchez and Leah Conner.
Rotarians Russ Janis and Ray Nelson, submitted their resignations. We wish them well and hope they will return one day soon.
New Member Orientation
On Saturday morning, January 13, the Del Norte Rotary Membership Committee organized an insightful New Member Orientation at Membership Chair Hass Aslami's Chello Grill. The session featured presentations from various Del Norte Board Directors and Committee Chairs, offering valuable information to four of our newest members, two members from last year, and a potential new member.
President Marty Padilla extended a warm welcome to members and guests, followed by an inspiring talk from Rotarian Monica Meyers, who shared her journey of becoming a Rotarian. Public Image Chair Rachelle Ford introduced our social media resources and outlined the committee's responsibilities.
Club RYLA Chair Maureen Anderson showcased a video from the camp and outlined the goals for this year's campers. Kim Helm provided insights into the Rotary International Foundation, Polio Plus fund drives, and explained the District Grant process. Sandy Rausch, our President-Elect and representative to the Rotary Del Norte Foundation Board, updated everyone on the status of our Foundation funds and the grant application process.
Reports from our Vocational, Fellowship, Community Service, and Youth Services Committees were presented. Monica Padilla, Satellite Chair, clarified the distinctions between the Satellite club and the Host Club. Rotarian Ken Abbott shed light on our club culture, while Mike Skolnick, our Sgt. At Arms, detailed the responsibilities of his position. Kathie Williams shared the history of our founder, Paul Harris, and recounted the journey of women becoming Rotarians.
A special thanks to the Membership Committee for organizing this valuable seminar. Kudos to Committee Member Sheryl Petersen for her efforts in putting together and facilitating this enriching learning experience.
Save the Date - February 17, 2024
Rotary Community Blood Drive
Celebrate Heart Month by donating blood through Vitalant
Time: 8am to 4pm.
Place: Revel Entertainment Center
4720 Alexander Blve NE
To schedule an appointment call or email Fred Bryant: 505 280-4118 or FREDBRYANT300@gmail.com
Donors will be in entered into drawings for a hot air balloon ride, sponsored by Joe Griego, Care Tactics CPR, a $100 gift card, and tickets to NM Philharmonic from Rotarian Nancy Naimark.
All donors will receive a T-shirt
Del Norte Rotarians' Annual White Elephant Gift Exchange
Friday night, the 19th, was filled with camaraderie as Del Norte Rotarians and guests gathered for our Annual White Elephant gift exchange and dinner. 45 Rotarians and their guests came together for a delightful potluck at the home of Rotarian Kathie Williams.
Kathie took charge of the main courses, preparing a delectable array of ham, brisket, and salmon. The rest of the attendees contributed a variety of salads, side dishes, and desserts, with special mentions for Ruth Ronan's crowd-favorite deviled eggs and the irresistible lemon Chello cookies by Carol Rickert Asbury, not to forget Harris McClains' tempting molasses cookies and Maureen Anderson's renowned brownies.
We are not sure who took home the best white elephant gifts, but we do know it takes a long time for 45 participants to choose the perfect gift. As for the best white elephant gift, opinions may vary, but Steve's fuzzy lined pink socks are a strong contender. If you're curious about his selection, be sure to ask him; chances are those socks will make a return appearance next year!
A heartfelt thank you goes out to Sherri Wells and her dedicated committee, as well as our hostess Kathie Williams, for orchestrating a truly enjoyable and festive evening.
President's Corner
Embracing Hope Together in February
Dear Rotary Club Members,
As we step into the month of February, I find myself reflecting on the incredible strength and resilience that defines our Rotary family. Each one of you contributes to the fabric of our community, and together, we weave a tapestry of hope that extends beyond the borders of our city, state, nation, and the entire world.
In the face of challenges, Rotary has always been a beacon of light, guiding us through the darkest of times. This February, I want to express my gratitude to each of you for your unwavering commitment to service, fellowship, and the betterment of humanity.
Our city has weathered storms, our state has overcome obstacles, our nation has stood united, and our world has witnessed both triumphs and tribulations. Yet, through it all, the spirit of Rotary has prevailed. It is this spirit that inspires hope, fosters compassion, and drives positive change.
As we embark on a new month, let's extend our hands to those in need, lend our voices to the causes that matter, and embody the Rotary values that make us a force for good.
Remember, our impact goes beyond our immediate surroundings. The actions we take, the love we share, and the hope we instill reverberate across borders, bringing light to the darkest corners of our world.
In the coming weeks, let's stand together, support one another, and radiate the hope that defines Rotary. Together, we make a difference.
Thank you for being the heart and soul of our Rotary family.
Yours in service,
Marty Padilla President, Rotary Club of Albuquerque Del Norte
Unveiling Albuquerque's Best Kept Secret: An Evening with the BioPark Zoo
Join us on Friday, February 9th, 2024, at the Sheraton Uptown where we will be hosting representatives and board members from the Albuquerque BioPark Zoo.
Enjoy a cocktail at 5:30 PM, and buffet dinner, with the meeting starting at 6:00PM. Then it is time to unveil the city’s best-kept secret, the BioPark Zoo and its hidden gems. This will be followed by a live performance by Musical Artist, Zach Coffey, as he shares his love of gospel music.
This event is specially priced at $27.00. Don’t miss this one!
At our Annual Trade Show, more than 20 Rotary Club Business Members, non-profits, and club committees showcased their business offerings. As part of the Business Membership program, each business had a dedicated table for display and information, allowing club members to enjoy lunch while engaging with each business to gather valuable information.
Diverse entities were represented, including non-profits like Hass Aslami’s Fundaxi, Nancy Presley-Naimark’s New Mexico Philharmonic, and Fred Bryant and Vitalant Blood Services. Tables were set up for our club's Membership and RYLA committees, our Satellite Club and our Del Norte Foundation,
Noel Valencia, the Vocational Chair, conducted interviews and held drawings for fabulous gifts, rewarding attendees who stayed for the entire event. Rotarians and guests walked away with impressive prizes, such as a $100 gift certificate for carpet cleaning from Jerry Becker and Steamatic, a basket of sunshine goodies from Jayne Figueroa and Beehive Homes, a Waterford Vase from Waterstone Mortgage, concert tickets from New Mexico Philharmonic, massages from Monica Meyers of Remax, and Starbucks gift cards.
The event was a blend of fun, fellowship, and effective networking among our business and club members
Nominations are Open
Our District Leadership Camp is accepting nominations for the 2024 Camps. See our RYLA Chair, Maureen Anderson, for details. Information is on our District Website.
The Northwind's Invisible Staff
Thank you to all who contribute their time and talents to the making of this newsletter.
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