Events

Life and Legacy: Navigating Wills, Trusts, and Estate Planning

Nechama D. Minkowicz is an accomplished Santa Fe-based legal professional, educator, and former judge who serves as the founder and principal attorney of Lasting Legacy Law LLC. Specializing in estate planning, life and legacy coordination, and asset protection, she focuses on empowering families and individuals through comprehensive legal education.

Before finding her true calling in estate law, Minkowicz dedicated twenty-three years to the field of education, working as a teacher and successfully founding and directing her own grant-funded school. Driven by a desire to help everyday individuals better navigate and understand the complexities of the legal system, she transitioned to the law, earning her Juris Doctorate followed by a Master of Laws (LL.M.) in Advocacy.

Her distinguished legal career includes years as a successful litigation attorney, followed by a judicial appointment to the bench by Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham in 2020. As a judge, she presided over a wide range of civil and criminal cases, adjudicated bench trials, and ruled on key constitutional issues while dramatically reducing backlogged court dockets. Today, she utilizes her deep courtroom and judicial experience to help clients avoid costly, public probate battles.

At our October 29 meeting, Minkowicz will provide practical, straightforward guidance on navigating unexpected life situations. She will demystify the estate planning process, breaking down the critical structural differences between wills and trusts, and sharing actionable advice on how to secure a solid financial foundation for the people and charitable causes you care about most.

What should the Rotary Club of Santa Fe Arts Committee look like in 2027 and beyond?

Join us for an important discussion about the future of our Distinguished Artist of the Year (DAOTY) program, charitable giving, community partnerships, special events, and other arts initiatives.

We'll explore opportunities to strengthen our impact, consider potential changes to our programs, and gather ideas before making decisions in December.

Your perspective matters! Whether you've been involved for years or are simply curious about the committee, we welcome your ideas and participation.

Interested in joining us? All Rotarians are welcome! This meeting will be held via Zoom at 5:30 PM Mountain Time. Please email any of the following committee members to request the meeting link:

• Theresa Stone: tstone.community@gmail.com

• Brian McPartlon: brianmcpartlonstudio@gmail.com

• Mark Spencer: markwspencer63@gmail.com

Help us imagine what's possible for the arts in Santa Fe—and how Rotary can continue making a difference!

Join us on November 5 as Terry Smith presents a vital discussion on post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and the Department of Veterans Affairs. He will share key insights into the mental health challenges veterans face and the recovery resources available through the VA. Come learn how our community can better understand and support those who have served.

Another Morning of Service at Reunity Resources!

We’re heading back to Reunity Resources for another Rotary morning of hands-on community service.

Join fellow Rotarians as we work together on projects supporting Reunity and its work in Santa Fe. Whether you participated in October or this is your first Reunity service day, we’d love to have you.

Saturday, November 7, 2026
9:00 AM–12:00 PM
Optional lunch together afterward

Rotarians, family members and friends are encouraged to participate.

Additional project details and information about what to bring will be shared closer to the date.

Spend your Saturday morning doing some good with Rotary — and join us for an optional lunch afterward!

Dr. Heidi Rosenstrauch, Chief Medical Officer at Signify Health, shares key insights on the evolving landscape of healthcare delivery. She will discuss how innovative, technology-driven care models improve patient outcomes and reshape community wellness. Come learn how modern health strategies are transforming care both locally and nationwide.

Fred Friedman — The Railroads of Santa Fe: History, People & Progress

All aboard for a fascinating journey through Santa Fe's railroad history!

Join us as we welcome Fred Friedman, a longtime railroad historian, former state railroad administrator, and board member of the Historical Society of New Mexico, for an engaging look at how railroads helped shape Santa Fe and the surrounding region.

Beginning with the arrival of the railroad in 1880, more than a dozen railroads operated along six different routes within Santa Fe's city and county boundaries. They carried everything from coal mined in Madrid and sheep from Moriarty to an extraordinary range of passengers—including Billy the Kid, Manhattan Project scientists, Japanese-American internees, and generations of New Mexicans traveling to school and work.

Fred brings a wealth of firsthand professional experience, having served as a railroad administrator, accident investigator, and expert witness. He has lectured extensively on New Mexico railroad history, including the contributions of Native American railroad workers and the changing role of rail transportation in American society.

From historic steam-era rail lines to today's Amtrak, New Mexico Rail Runner Express, and Sky Railway, Fred will explore the people, places, and developments that connect Santa Fe's railroad past with its present.

Guests are always welcome! Join us for an entertaining and educational look at a chapter of New Mexico history that continues to influence our community today.

No Weekly Meeting — Happy Thanksgiving

In observance of Thanksgiving Day, Rotary Club of Santa Fe will not hold its regular weekly meeting.

As we gather with family and friends, we pause to reflect with gratitude for the many blessings in our lives and for the opportunity to serve our community throughout the year.

Here in Northern New Mexico, Thanksgiving also invites us to recognize the rich cultural heritage of the Native peoples whose traditions, history, and enduring presence continue to shape Santa Fe and our region. We are grateful for the many voices, perspectives, and traditions that strengthen our community.

We wish you a joyful, peaceful, and meaningful Thanksgiving, and we look forward to seeing you at our next Rotary meeting.

It's decision time for the Rotary Club of Santa Fe Arts Committee!

Building on our November discussions, we'll vote on proposed changes to our programs and activities, establish priorities for 2027, and finalize membership of the 2027 Distinguished Artist of the Year Selection Committee.

We'll also discuss volunteer opportunities, committee responsibilities, and preparations for the artist-selection process beginning in January.

All Rotarians are welcome to attend and contribute to the discussion.

This meeting will be held via Zoom at 5:30 PM Mountain Time. To request the Zoom link or learn more about participating, please email:

• Theresa Stone: tstone.community@gmail.com

• Brian McPartlon: brianmcpartlonstudio@gmail.com

• Mark Spencer: markwspencer63@gmail.com

Your involvement helps ensure that our arts initiatives remain vibrant, meaningful, and sustainable. We'd love to have you join us!

Bryan Rosenstrauch explores the powerful connection between recycling and economic development. He will highlight how modern waste reduction strategies can drive sustainable growth, create local opportunities, and benefit our broader community. Come discover how turning trash into resources powers a stronger economic future.

No Noon Club Meeting Today – Join Us Tonight for Our Annual Holiday Party!

There will be no regular Thursday lunch meeting today as we celebrate the season together this evening at the Santa Fe Woman's Club.

Our Annual Holiday Party is one of Rotary Club of Santa Fe's favorite traditions - a festive evening of fellowship, laughter, and celebration with fellow Rotarians, spouses, partners, family members, and friends.

As we reflect on another year of service to our community, we'll enjoy great food, wonderful company, and the opportunity to celebrate the friendships that make Rotary so special.

Whether you've been a member for decades or just recently joined our Rotary family, we look forward to celebrating the season together.

Happy Holidays, and we'll see you tonight!

Annual Rotary Club of Santa Fe Holiday Party

Celebrate the season with your Rotary family at our Annual Holiday Party, an evening of fellowship, festive cheer, and giving back.

Members, spouses, partners, family, and guests are invited to join us at the historic Santa Fe Woman's Club as we gather to celebrate another year of friendship, service, and impact in our community.

Enjoy an evening of delicious food, holiday spirit, and great conversation as we reflect on the accomplishments of the past year and look ahead to the opportunities the new year will bring.

In keeping with Rotary's motto of Service Above Self, we'll once again be collecting non-perishable food donations to benefit The Food Depot, helping ensure that local families have access to nutritious meals during the holiday season. Please consider bringing a few items to help fill our collection bins.

Holiday attire is encouraged! Whether you wear a festive sweater, seasonal colors, or your favorite holiday accessories, come ready to celebrate in the spirit of the season.

Whether you're a longtime Rotarian or joining us for the first time, we hope you'll come celebrate the season with friends old and new.

Happy Holidays from the Rotary Club of Santa Fe!

Gail Ansheles – From Jeopardy! Champion to Champion of Literacy

"I'll take Community Service for $1,000..."

Join us for an entertaining and inspiring program with Gail Ansheles, educator, author, four-day Jeopardy! champion, and former contestant on Who Wants to Be a Millionaire? Gail has combined a lifelong love of learning with a passion for helping children discover the joy of reading.

As the founder of Book Kids, a Santa Fe nonprofit dedicated to putting free books into the hands of children throughout Northern New Mexico, Gail has helped distribute hundreds of thousands of books while encouraging literacy, imagination, and a lifelong love of learning. Her work demonstrates how one person can make an extraordinary difference simply by helping children open a book.

Gail will share stories from her unforgettable television quiz show experiences, along with the inspiration behind Book Kids and the importance of literacy in building stronger communities.

Whether you're a trivia enthusiast, an avid reader, or simply interested in hearing remarkable stories from an extraordinary Santa Fean, you won't want to miss this program.

Guests are always welcome!

There will be no regular Rotary Club of Santa Fe meeting today as many of our members and their families observe holiday traditions and spend time with loved ones.

The holiday season is a time to reflect on the friendships we've built, the lives we've touched through service, and the many reasons we have to be grateful. Whatever traditions you celebrate - or don't celebrate - we wish you a season filled with peace, joy, good health, and meaningful moments with those who matter most.

Thank you for your commitment to Service Above Self throughout the year. We look forward to continuing our work together in the new year.

Happy Holidays from the Rotary Club of Santa Fe!

There will be no regular Rotary Club of Santa Fe meeting today as we celebrate the arrival of a new year.

As we close another remarkable year of fellowship and service, we extend our sincere thanks to every member, volunteer, speaker, partner organization, and supporter who helped strengthen our community through Rotary.

The new year brings fresh opportunities to serve, lead, learn, and make an even greater impact—both here in Santa Fe and around the world. We look forward to sharing that journey with you.

Have a safe, joyful, and prosperous New Year, and we'll see you at our first meeting of 2027!

The search for the Rotary Club of Santa Fe's 2027 Distinguished Artist of the Year is underway!

Our appointed Selection Committee will begin the important work of reviewing potential honorees and considering the artistic achievements and contributions that make this recognition so meaningful.

Please note: Artist-selection deliberations are reserved for members of the appointed Selection Committee. Other Arts Committee business and planning discussions remain open to interested Rotarians.

This meeting will be held via Zoom at 5:30 PM Mountain Time. To request meeting information or learn how to participate in the Arts Committee's broader activities, please email:

• Theresa Stone: tstone.community@gmail.com

• Brian McPartlon: brianmcpartlonstudio@gmail.com

• Mark Spencer: markwspencer63@gmail.com

There's much more to our Arts Committee than selecting an artist, and we welcome Rotarians who would like to help make the year ahead a success!

Jean Palmer — Building a More Compassionate Santa Fe

What does it take to ensure that everyone in our community has access to safe, stable housing?

Join the Rotary Club of Santa Fe as we welcome Jean Palmer, a dedicated community advocate and core member of the Santa Fe Housing for All Collaborative, an organization working to change the conversation around homelessness, advocate for viable housing solutions, and bring housed and unhoused neighbors together.

Recognized by The Santa Fe New Mexican as one of its 2025 “10 Who Made a Difference” honorees, Jean has devoted countless hours to supporting Santa Fe residents experiencing homelessness. Her volunteer work includes preparing weekly meals at Casa Familia, serving at Pete's Place, and participating in community education and advocacy initiatives.

Jean will share insights into the challenges facing our unhoused neighbors, the collaborative efforts underway to address housing insecurity, and how education, compassion, and community involvement can help create meaningful change.

Guests are always welcome! Join us for an important conversation about housing, dignity, and the role each of us can play in building a stronger Santa Fe.

Service Above Self in action!

Becca Haffenden – Building Homes, Building Hope

Affordable housing is one of the most pressing challenges facing Santa Fe, affecting families, employers, educators, first responders, and our community as a whole.

Join us as we welcome Becca Haffenden, President of Santa Fe Habitat for Humanity, for a conversation about how the organization is helping local families achieve the dream of homeownership through affordable, energy-efficient homes, critical home repairs, and strong community partnerships.

Since 1987, Santa Fe Habitat for Humanity has worked alongside partner families who invest 500 hours of "sweat equity" helping build their own homes and strengthening neighborhoods across our region. Becca will provide updates on current projects, discuss the growing need for affordable housing in Santa Fe, and share ways individuals, businesses, and organizations like Rotary can make a lasting impact.

Guests are welcome to attend as we learn how working together can help build not just houses, but stronger communities.

Sonja Bruzauskas — Building Bridges Through the Arts

Can creativity bring people together across cultural, economic, and social boundaries? Sonja Bruzauskas, founder and CEO of pARTnerschools, believes it can—and she's putting that belief into action!

Join the Rotary Club of Santa Fe as we welcome Sonja, an internationally accomplished mezzo-soprano, arts educator, and nonprofit leader whose career spans opera, musical theater, concert performance, and community arts education. Born and raised in Germany, Sonja has performed with distinguished organizations including the Santa Fe Opera and has held numerous arts leadership and educational roles.

Through pARTnerschools, Sonja works to connect children from different schools and communities through collaborative music, visual arts, theater, and creative writing programs. By creating opportunities for students to learn, perform, and create together, the organization fosters friendships, cultural understanding, and a greater appreciation for what we share.

With programs reaching Texas, New Mexico, and Colorado, pARTnerschools demonstrates how arts education can build connections that extend well beyond the classroom.

Sonja will introduce us to the organization's mission and its innovative approach to using artistic expression as a bridge between communities.

Guests are always welcome! Join us for an inspiring conversation about creativity, education, and the power of the arts to bring people together.

Service Above Self—through the arts!

Dr. John Taylor-Montoya – Unearthing New Mexico's Past

Beneath New Mexico's landscapes lie thousands of years of human history waiting to be discovered, preserved, and understood.

Join us as we welcome Dr. John Taylor-Montoya, Executive Director of the New Mexico Office of Archaeological Studies, for a fascinating look at how archaeology helps reveal the stories of the people and cultures who shaped our state long before us.

Dr. Taylor-Montoya will discuss the Office's work conducting archaeological research, protecting historic and cultural sites, collaborating with Tribal Nations and communities, and sharing discoveries through education and public outreach. He'll also explore why preserving our archaeological heritage is essential to understanding New Mexico's rich and diverse past.

Whether you're a history enthusiast, a lover of the Southwest, or simply curious about what lies beneath our feet, this promises to be an engaging and enlightening program.

Guests are welcome to attend.

We're approaching an exciting milestone for the 2027 Distinguished Artist of the Year program!

Our appointed Selection Committee will work toward concluding the artist-selection process, while the broader Arts Committee begins preliminary planning for the announcement, events, fundraising, community partnerships, and volunteer coordination.

Please note: Artist-selection deliberations are limited to the appointed Selection Committee. All Rotarians are welcome to participate in the committee's general planning and volunteer activities.

This meeting will be held via Zoom at 5:30 PM Mountain Time. For meeting details, the Zoom link, or information about getting involved, please email:

• Theresa Stone: tstone.community@gmail.com

• Brian McPartlon: brianmcpartlonstudio@gmail.com

• Mark Spencer: markwspencer63@gmail.com

From event planning and fundraising to communications and community outreach, there are many ways to contribute. You don't have to be an artist to help us celebrate the arts!

Maria Sanchez-Tucker, Interim Director of the New Mexico History Museum. She will share insights on the museum's latest initiatives, upcoming exhibitions, and ongoing efforts to preserve and celebrate New Mexico's rich cultural heritage.

Ms. Sanchez-Tucker brings more than 20 years of leadership in public administration, libraries, and historical preservation. She previously served as Community Services Director and Library Division Director for the City of Santa Fe, as well as founding Executive Director of the Bessemer Historical Society. She holds advanced degrees in museum science and library science, and her projects have earned grants from the NEA, NEH, and IMLS.

Guests are always welcome to join us for lunch and discover what Rotary is all about.

Bill Kelley — The Engineering Behind the Thrill!

Ever wondered what it takes to design a roller coaster that sends riders soaring, twisting, and racing around the track—while keeping safety at the forefront?

Join the Rotary Club of Santa Fe as we welcome Bill Kelley, founder and president of Dynamic Designs, Inc., a consulting engineering firm specializing in roller coaster and amusement ride design.

Bill's work brings together engineering, physics, creativity, and an understanding of the forces riders experience. From the excitement of a steep drop to the precision required for turns and transitions, roller coaster engineering offers a fascinating look at how science becomes entertainment.

Bill will introduce us to the world of amusement ride design, sharing insights into the technical challenges, safety considerations, and ingenuity behind attractions enjoyed by millions of people.

Guests are always welcome! Join us for an entertaining and educational presentation that promises a few twists and turns.

Service Above Self—with a little extra G-force!

Heather Neil, Nurse Practitioner / Healthcare Provider, from Full Circle Healing Family Practice will be our speaker today.

Full Circle Healing Family Practice provides integrative and comprehensive primary care services in Santa Fe. Heather Neil is a dedicated medical clinician who graduated from the University of Saint Francis in Albuquerque and holds board certification through national credentialing organizations. Affiliated with CHRISTUS St. Vincent Regional Medical Center, she brings extensive clinical experience in family health, chronic condition management, and patient-centered primary care to the Santa Fe community.

She will discuss holistic approaches to primary care, community wellness, and integrative strategies for maintaining long-term health.

Benedicte Valentiner — Behind the Doors of Blair House: The President's Guest House

What happens behind the scenes when kings, queens, presidents, prime ministers, and other foreign dignitaries visit the White House?

Join the Rotary Club of Santa Fe as we welcome Benedicte Valentiner, former General Manager of Blair House, the President's Guest House in Washington, D.C., for a fascinating insider's look at the world of international diplomacy and presidential hospitality.

Born in Denmark and American by choice, Benedicte served as General Manager of Blair House from April 1988 through August 2001, welcoming world leaders and distinguished guests during the administrations of four U.S. presidents.

Drawing from her remarkable experiences and her book, Bedtime and Other Stories from The President's Guest House, Benedicte will share memorable stories about the people, preparations, traditions, and unexpected challenges involved in hosting some of the world's most influential figures.

From elaborate state visits to the smallest details of hospitality, discover how the behind-the-scenes work of Blair House helps support American diplomacy—a fascinating practice Benedicte calls “mechanical diplomacy.”

Guests are always welcome! Join us for an entertaining and illuminating glimpse into a world few people ever get to experience.

Service Above Self—on the world stage!

It's time to launch our 2027 Distinguished Artist of the Year celebration!

With the selection process complete, we'll turn our attention to announcing this year's honoree and bringing the program to life.

Our March meeting will focus on press and publicity, event planning, sponsorships, fundraising, community partnerships, and volunteer assignments as we move into the busiest and most exciting phase of the year.

This is a wonderful time for new volunteers to get involved! We welcome Rotarians with interests in the arts, event production, marketing, fundraising, community engagement, and more.

This meeting will be held via Zoom at 5:30 PM Mountain Time. To request the Zoom link or learn how you can help, please email:

• Theresa Stone: tstone.community@gmail.com

• Brian McPartlon: brianmcpartlonstudio@gmail.com

• Mark Spencer: markwspencer63@gmail.com

Great arts programs take great teamwork. Join us in celebrating Santa Fe's creative community and making DAOTY 2027 another year to remember!

Meghan Haarmann — Can You Hear Me Now? Protecting Your Hearing for Life

Could your favorite exercise class, concert, or everyday activities be putting your hearing at risk?

Join the Rotary Club of Santa Fe as we welcome Meghan Haarmann, a Hearing Instrument Specialist with Sandia Hearing Aids in Los Alamos, for an informative and engaging conversation about hearing health, prevention, and the importance of staying connected to the sounds—and people—we love.

Meghan recently authored an article titled “Is Your Spin Class Damaging Your Hearing?” examining how surprisingly loud environments, including popular group fitness classes, can expose us to potentially harmful noise levels. Her work highlights an important reality: hearing loss can develop gradually, often before we recognize the warning signs.

With a background in medical and animal medicine, Meghan brings a compassionate, patient-centered perspective to hearing care. She emphasizes listening to patients and their families, understanding their challenges, and helping them find practical solutions.

During her presentation, we'll explore the causes and warning signs of hearing loss, everyday steps we can take to protect our hearing, and how modern hearing technology can help people remain active, independent, and engaged in their communities.

Guests are always welcome! Join us for a presentation that could change the way you listen to the world around you.

Service Above Self starts with listening!

Stay Tuned! — Another Engaging Rotary Program Is on the Way

One of the best things about the Rotary Club of Santa Fe is the remarkable variety of people, ideas, and perspectives we bring together each week!

Our Thursday luncheon programs feature an engaging mix of community leaders, nonprofit organizations, artists, authors, scientists, educators, entrepreneurs, public officials, and other fascinating individuals whose work helps us better understand our community and the world around us.

From local history, arts and culture, and economic development to healthcare, education, environmental stewardship, international affairs, and humanitarian service, our speakers inspire conversation, curiosity, and opportunities to make a difference.

Our March 11 program is still being finalized. Please check back for details!

Have a speaker or topic to recommend? We're always interested in hearing from individuals and organizations with compelling stories, valuable expertise, innovative ideas, or meaningful community initiatives to share. Our speaker presentations and discussions typically run approximately 25–40 minutes.

Please reach out to the Rotary Club of Santa Fe with your suggestions or inquiries. We'd love to hear from you!

Guests and prospective members are always welcome! Join us for lunch, fellowship, and an opportunity to discover what Rotary is all about.

Service Above Self begins with connection!