New Mexico State Visit

A warm welcome to the Land of Enchantment for New Mexico’s 104th DAR State Conference, March 6-8, 2025 was given by State Regent Eleanor Ortiz. “We’re all on a journey going to America 250 with great excitement to celebrate America’s birthday as we join together in our DAR Spirit of Love and rejoice in the ties that bind.” 

The Chapter Regent’s Club Luncheon welcomed all current and past chapter regents from New Mexico’s 16 chapters and attending guests. After a brief Board of Management meeting, everybody rocked and rolled at a 1950’s style Cameo Society Sock Hop. State Officers met for breakfast on Friday, March 7, 2025, which was Madame State Regent Ortiz’ birthday! Opening Ceremonies featured Colors posted by University of New Mexico Air Force ROTC with this State Regent welcoming everyone and recognizing the four host chapters of the Northwest District. Fifteen Daughters were remembered during the Memorial Service with a tribute to state registrar Sarah Clark, and a tribute to Honorary State Regent Bernece Ocksrider. The Commemorative Events luncheon featured Leslie Miller, DAR National Chair, Commemorative Events, with an outstanding presentation on “The 125th Anniversary of the DAR Hospital Corps.” The DAR Leadership Training Cording Ceremony, committee reports and special committee reports followed.

The Stars and Stripes Forever luncheon featured awards in American History essays, Good Citizen, Thatcher, VIS of the year and Heritage Room. The newly elected 2025-2027 state officers were inducted. Out-of-state guests traveled to Santa Fe by train to tour the New Mexico State Capitol, the miraculous staircase at the Loretto Chapel, La Fonda Hotel, End of the Santa Fe Trail marker, and a dusting of snow blessed them at the St. Francis Cathedral Basilica.

Mary Tedesco DAR National Chair, Insignia, reviewed the history of DAR Insignia and related a bit of “Genealogy Road Show” pertaining to New Mexico soldier Jose Antonio Ortiz at the Saturday evening banquet.

State Regent Ortiz invited everyone to the unveiling of her State Regent’s project, a bronze marker to be installed June 14, 2025 at Santa Fe’s New Mexico Military Museum. It recognizes Presidio soldiers in Santa Fe who each donated two pesos to support the Revolutionary War.