2010-2011 President

Robert L. Boverie

Dear Rotarians,   Building Communities – Bridging Continents   The Rotary International Theme this year communicates an important goal:  By working for and developing our communities, we as Rotarians will make a better world for everyone. 1.2 million Rotarians, working together, can accomplish great things.  Rotary International is zeroing in on the final eradication of polio, through its Polio Plus initiative. Through the efforts and donations of Rotarians worldwide, this disease will finally be conquered. What a great gift to the world!   Our Club Theme for this year is Share Rotary. "Sharing Rotary" means providing services, doing good work, and spreading the Rotary Spirit to those who benefit from our work.  I view it as a Rotarian obligation to share both our camaraderie and our commitment to service with others in our own community and throughout the world.    This is the 95th year that the Rotary Club of Albuquerque will contribute to the well-being of the Greater Albuquerque community. We have a rich heritage in our community, having had leadership, for example, in the formation of the Middle Rio Grande Conservancy District, the New Mexico Symphony Orchestra, the Natural History Museum, the Children’s Fantasy Garden at the BioPark, and in many other initiatives over the years. Our Foundation, just since 1999, has provided almost $800,000 for charitable work in the community.   And we are part of the world-wide Rotary movement, joining with over 1.2 million Rotarians in over 33,000 clubs, located in over 200 countries and geographic regions. Practically anywhere you go, you can find a Rotary club with like-minded, service-oriented members. In these difficult times, it’s comforting to be able to find friends anywhere in the world.   I encourage every member to invite friends, family, colleagues, and neighbors to our meetings. The engaging programs that we provide every week are a great way to expose people in the community to our wonderful fellowship. And we provide a great venue for others to share in our many opportunities for “Service Above Self.”   Our club has 51 different committees covering a diversity of service opportunities.  Every member can find his or her passion and desired level of participation. It’s your choice!   It’s a tremendous honor to serve as your president for the coming year. Thank you for this opportunity. I look forward to Sharing Rotary with you throughout the year.