E D U C AT I O N & R E T R E AT C E N T E R
J U LY 2 0 1 4
Transformation
Your Gift Gives & Gives
E
ach of us, unique in God’s creation, offers a one-of-a-kind personal expression in all that we do. The journey may be all about the search for personal meaning, an effort to connect us to our own true nature—spiritually, creatively, physically—whichever path we take. Ghost Ranch is about the journey of self-exploration. In 2013, nearly 30,000 people came to Ghost Ranch to traverse the red rock landscape in search of meaning, connection and new ideas. Ghost Ranch, an ecumenical and interfaith education and retreat center of the Presbyterian Church (USA), is grounded in spirituality and all are welcome. We design workshops and retreats that allow our guests to explore their creative and spiritual selves.
One guest who visited Ghost Ranch for her first time in 2013 shared this:
“My experience with EarthHonoring Faith was probably the most profound public endeavor I’ve engaged in—wonderful with exceptional leadership. Terry Tempest Williams and Bill Brown were fabulous! It has been a long time since I’ve been so moved and inspired day-after-day.”
The connection to Spirit is so readily available that Ghost Ranch is revered by some as a “thin place”—a place where the distance between heaven and earth dissolves, a place that can relax and transform us. If you’ve ever been to Ghost Ranch, you get the meaning. For Chelsea Duff, a 2013 Alma College graduate, the journey to Ghost Ranch was life-changing. Recipient of the 2013 Barlow Trophy, Chelsea shared the experiences that impacted her life: “So many different things have impacted me, but I think it was the Center for Responsible Leadership’s summit in Ghost Ranch, NM after my freshman year that changed my life the most.
It was so inspiring to be in a place unlike any that I had ever known and do things I thought I would never do.”
Inside: From Leadership Meet the New Operations Director Signs of Change Community Day Camp Annual Financial Report South Korea Peace Corps Reunion Photo by Katharine Kimball.
The landscape, people and heart-opening connections that are found at Ghost Ranch give a tangible value to peoples’ lives. A 2013 Jan Term student, Sara Hussein, offers her experience:
“Before being greeted by the majestic red rocks, cascading mountains and lakes surrounding Ghost Ranch, I felt like I had lost my passion, purpose, desire, excitement, my romantic soul and my artist’s touch. It was at Ghost Ranch that I found that they were all still there, inside of me, waiting to be re-awakened... From a Ministry Week participant: “I really liked the content of the class. I loved the connection among those in the class that was made possible by the way the class was run and because we all ate meals together. This is my second class with Jeanette. Each time I came away reinvigorated. It is both intellectually stimulating and sort of retreat-like. Because of my work, it is a bit of a sacrifice to come to her classes in the fall. But it is one that I know I need to make.” Each who visits has a ripple effect around the world. Person by person, Ghost Ranch, is making a difference. Your gift is making a difference. Your gift adds value to peoples’ lives. Your gift has a ripple effect around the world. Thank you for giving to Ghost Ranch.
Your Legacy
LEADERSHIP
2013
Notes Dear Friends, Thank you so much for your support in 2013. There are two stories to tell at Ghost Ranch. One is about the challenges of leaking roofs and miles of sewer and electrical lines that are over 60 years old—a story about a budget that is much too small to cover the decades of deferred maintenance. But that’s going to be the story of our past. The story about our present is setting the standard for the future. It’s about growing with increased program attendance and educational tours. It’s about increasing the quality and nutrition in the meals we serve. It’s about raising the bar to meet guests’ expectations. With our focus on improving the grounds and facilities, and on hospitality and guest services, we’re investing in the right places and achieving successes in our day-to-day operations. Our sights are set for the next five years, and beyond, with a strategic plan that outlines the initiatives for the property and facilities, for increasing internal systems and staff, for the celebration of our 60th anniversary in 2015 and the start of a capital campaign.
HAVE YOU CONSIDERED • • Debra Hepler, Executive Director
It has been seven years since we lost our direct financial support, but we are working on fund development, increasing customer awareness and communications, ongoing attention to costs of operations and increasing guest attendance in all areas of the Ranch. We continue to be excellent stewards of our resources and we are committed to the sustainability and growth of this sacred space. Our dedication and a keen focus drive us to continually improve every aspect of the Ranch. The opportunity to amazingly transform the lives of those drawn to Ghost Ranch keeps us inspired and moving forward to a bright future. In service and in peace,
Bill Major Chair, Governing Board
•
A first-time gift to Ghost Ranch? A 10% to 20% increase in your annual gift? Or a planned gift for the Ranch—a life insurance policy, gift annuity or bequest?
Donate online at GhostRanch. org or contact Mary Martinez in the Development Office. 505.685.1000, ext. 4148 or marym@GhostRanch.org Please remember, all gifts made to the Ghost Ranch Annual Fund and to the National Ghost Ranch Foundation Restricted Funds are 100% tax deductible. Each donation keeps us on the road to improvement and sustainability. Each donation supports the educational and nurturing culture of Ghost Ranch programming and offerings.
YOU MAKE A DIFFERENCE!
Lori Fabiano Chair, National Ghost Ranch Foundation
Debra Hepler Ghost Ranch Executive Director
Photo by Larry Hastings.
Stewardship of 21,000 acres of sacred space is only possible through your gifts. Left photo by Jamie Clifford. Photo above by Reynolds. Top photo on opposite page by David Manzanares.
NEW SIGNS
Photo by David Manzanares.
Guiding Paths Historically, our guests have found their way around Ghost Ranch with the hand-made signs created with love by many volunteers. The signs were all unique, using different materials and different styles. If you were part of the sign making over the years, we thank you. The signs on the Ranch have been a cherished part of our 59-year history. They have reflected the character of who we are—a working ranch. In 2013, with our commitment to improving guest experiences, it was time to enhance the signage to new professionally painted signs. Our deep gratitude goes to the donor who realized the importance of an updated wayfinding system (as the science of signage is called). Fine artist, Daniel Magoon, provided the craftsmanship. His hand-lettering talent is not one easily found in our fast-paced, mass-produced world. Hand-painted signs have quickly
Daniel Manzanares is the new Chief Operations Officer for Ghost Ranch.
Welcome Daniel
in the pool at Ghost Ranch almost 43 years ago. He fondly remembers being taught how to blend smoothies and bake bread with Georgia O’Keeffe in his parents’ kitchen.
Daniel M. Manzanares became our Chief Operations Officer and is accountable for the responsible stewardship of the natural resources entrusted to us by our creator (—for the overall operations of the Ranch). In his role, Daniel oversees the day-to-day ranch operations which includes Hospitality, Culinary, Housekeeping, Maintenance, Ranchlands, Service Corps, Medical Personnel and Volunteer Staff.
Daniel came to Ghost Ranch from his position as Director of the International Import-Export Livestock Facility in Santa Teresa, New Mexico and was actively engaged in transnational issues including animal health, livestock movement and border security. Before that Daniel was the Director of the New Mexico Livestock Board.
In August of 2013 we made a bold move toward a strong future by reinstating a position that had been vacant for more than five years.
Born and raised in Abiquiu, New Mexico, Daniel has life-long ties to Ghost Ranch. He knew Jim and Ruth Hall, Jim and Dart Shibley (and later Judy Shibley) and Ray and Rosie McCall. As a boy, he was classmates with their children at the Catholic elementary school in Abiquiu and he learned to swim
become a lost art. He eloquently captured our legacy of hand-
With his keen mind and can-do attitude, Daniel has already made a noticeable difference at the Ranch. Simply drive in and you’ll see the changes. With his wife, Eleonora and 5-year old son, Fermin Alejandro, the Manzanares’ reside at Ghost Ranch while they remodel a 1700’s family home in Abiquiu.
crafted signs. Our heartfelt thanks to Skip Herbert for his fortitude and persistence, the tools required
to install over 90 new signs.
Daniel has served many years in the United States Army and National Guard/Reserves and is currently ranked as Major. He has been awarded numerous decorations including a Special Forces Tab and German Parachute Wings.
Handpainted by Daniel Magoon and installed by Skip Herbert, 90 new signs guide our guests.
First Annual
GHOST RANCH
Community Camp
Fostering Leadership in Our Local Youth This past summer, during the first week of August—before, we said goodbye to our beloved College Staff and before local children began a new school year—Ghost Ranch offered its first Community Day Camp. The 5-day commuter program was underwritten largely in part by the generosity of the McCune Foundation of New Mexico.
Local neighborhood children were able to enjoy some of the same activities that are offered throughout the summer, sponsored by the McCune Foundation of New Mexico.
The intention was to offer youth from our local area an opportunity to experience many of the outstanding Youth Programming adventures that happen here throughout the summer. Originally thought to draw about 25 youth, the Community Camp drew close to 75 in its first year—all new Ghost Ranch fans ranging in age from 7 to 17. Aimee Zivin, Ghost Ranch Summer Youth Programming Coordinator, who organized the week with her fabulous team (including shuttle drivers, counselors, lifeguards and the Dining Hall staff), had the following to say about the week: “Community Camp offered children from the local northern New Mexico area a chance to enjoy the magical opportunities of Ghost Ranch. The theme of leadership wove together the week of fun, nature and challenges. We had a blast!” Eventually, we would like to see this commuter camp convert into an overnight program, allowing local youth an opportunity to have a memorable camp experience.
“We had a b last!”
To make a financial gift to the Community Camp or other local outreach programs, donate at GhostRanch.org, or contact Mary Martinez in the Development Office. 505.685.1000, ext. 4148 or marym@GhostRanch.org Photos by Nate Zivin.
Coming back to the Ranch to teach my Women in Silver Retreat, I am amazed by how the grounds look—brush cleaned, trees trimmed, new signs and fresh paint. But I see a change in staff as well. Hospitality has grown leaps and bounds. They are competent and supportive. The energy and enthusiasm is palpable—my entire class has Photo by Katharine Kimball.
felt it. And it’s catching. I have all these new ideas for courses I want to teach. It feels great.” —Ghost Ranch Instructor,
Jacob Cordova shares information about an upcoming workshop with day visitors.
Guiding Our Paths
Judith Foster has been a student and teacher at Ghost Ranch since 2001.
Ghost Ranch is honored to have these dedicated people guiding our leadership, as they serve to review and to create policy and to strategically plan for growth of the Ranch. The Board meets in person three times annually and as needed, via teleconferencing.
Governing Board Members 2013
Bill Major, Tulsa, OK - President Tammy Andrews, Pacific Palisades, CA Diane Arenberg, Santa Fe, NM Mary Ann Bumgarner, Santa Fe, NM & Tulsa, OK David Burpee, Lincolndale, NY Scott Davidson, Albuquerque, NM Mike P. Evanson, Tulsa, OK Laurel Fabiano, St. Petersburg, FL Brian Frick, Parkville, MO Dietmar Fritsch, Silverthorne, CO Cesar Goulart, Albuquerque, NM Bill E. Ireland, Venice, CA Louis Jacobo, Phoenix, AZ Mike Kirk, Louisville, KY Grant Mallett, Falmouth, MA Geoff Mather, Albuquerque, NM
Patty Meneley, Boulder, CO Carl Schlich, St. Simons Island, GA Connie Tubb, Dallas, TX
The National Ghost Ranch Foundation works with the development committee of the governing board to raise money towards operations and the endowment.
NGRF Officers
Laurel Fabiano, President, Tom Arenberg, Vice President Connie Burkhart, Secretary Jon Hall, Treasurer Connie Brakebill, Member at Large
Staff Management Team
Debra Hepler, Executive Director Natalie Agraz, Director of Development Debbie Manzanares, Human Resources Director Mary Martinez, Fund Development Manager Cheryl Muceus/Christopher Crews, Director of Museums Stephen Picha, Director of Program & Events Linda Seebantz, Director of Marketing & Communications Marla Ulibarri, Director of Guest Services Jon Usher, Director of Finance Daniel Manzanares, Chief Operating Officer/Operations Director Bill Wylie, Land & Facilities
FINANCIAL REPORT +10%
GHOST RANCH STATEMENT OF INCOME Operating Revenue Programs Groups & Overnight Stays All Other Operating Income Total Operating Revenue Operating Expenses Facilities, Operations and Guest Services Food Service & Housekeeping Programs & Events Other Operating Expenses Total Operating Expenses Total Gross Operating Margin Other Operating & Administrative Expenses Net Margin (Loss) from Operations Non-Operating Support Annual Fund Contributions NGRF - Chimney Rock & Facilities Support Total Non-Operating Support Total Net Margin$ Abiquiu Santa Fe Total Net Margin
2013 $ 1,568,214 1,175,211 1,058,300 3,801,724
2012 $
1,470,837 1,276,674 922,501 3,670,013
1,294,727 1,011,155 937,934 534,411 3,778,226
1,422,211 988,285 495,671 473,825 3,379,992
23,498
290,021
1,121,539
938,489
(1,098,041)
(648,468)
481,847 132,918 614,765
538,312 16,609 554,921
(483,276)
$
(93,547)
$ (433,562) (49,714) $ (483,276)
$
(29,655) (63,892) (93,547)
$
GHOST RANCH BALANCE SHEET ASSETS Cash Cash & Money Market Funds Petty Cash and Cash in Process Total Cash
December 31, 2013
Investments Long-term Investments held by the Foundation Other Assets Accounts Receivable Inventory and other current assets Total Other Assets Fixed Assets TOTAL ASSETS$ LIABILITIES Amounts due to the Presbyterian Church Other accounts and notes payable Deferred Revenue Total Liabilities NET ASSETS Unrestricted Net Assets and Plant Fund Temporarily Restricted Temporarily Restricted-La Bruzza Permanently Restricted-La Bruzza Total Net Assets TOTAL LIABILITIES & NET ASSETS
$260,712 95,271 355,983
December 31, 2012 $
173,602 190,783 364,385
467,358
438,790
86,121 239,282 325,404
330,450 162,644 493,094
5,812,459
5,974,315
6,961,203
$
7,270,583
$ 2,660,481 6 53,098 221,081 2,934,660
$
2 ,236,766 97,626 184,680 2,519,072
$ 3,454,333 104,852 (65,292) 532,650 4,026,543
4,200,838 111,883 (93,860) 532,650 4,751,511
$6,961,203
$ 7,270,583
2012
10,472
Increase in participants. 25% increase in 2013 weekend partici11,509 pants because of more offerings.
Increased emphasis on Wrangler Program in 2013.
+76%
2013
801 rides
2012
455
+7%
2013
15,277
2012
14,279
+51% 2012
7,817
7% Increase in the number of museum 2013 visitors. Museum 11,805 fees are up 51% as fees are now required rather than suggested.
Notes to financials Included in the $4.4 million annual budget at the Ranch, and the $483,000 deficit, are the following: 1. Investment in important new paid-positions in Operations, Hospitality, Front Desk and Housekeeping necessary to deliver quality guest service. 2. A 22% increase in employee 2 benefits costs under PCUSAprovided benefit programs. 3. 3 Increased facility and vehicle maintenance expenses to maintain our buildings, infrastructure and aging vehicle fleet. 4. 4 Continued asset-protection expenses related to carrying and maintaining the Santa Fe property and expenses for attorneys and consultants in the Abiquiu Lake water storage issue.
1
They Give & Give If you visit Ghost Ranch, you may notice a number of new Adirondack chairs with a “K-IV” brand. So what is “K-IV” and why are the chairs at Ghost Ranch? The story started in September 1967, when 111 of us from all parts of the US arrived at the Ranch to train for three months for Peace Corps service in South Korea. Our training staff was waiting for us: 15 language instructors from Korea, some cross-cultural staff who had already completed Peace Corps service in other countries and a number of medical and administrative staff from the Division of Indian Health of the US Public Health Service who would train us to be rural health workers in Korea. We would be the fourth Peace Corps group in Korea, hence the designation “K-IV.” Most of us arrived after dark. The next morning, we saw the first sun on Chimney Rock and Kitchen Mesa looming behind the Dining Hall. It was a revelation—and the beginning of a strong attachment to Ghost Ranch and to each other. In 1977, our group planned a reunion, and Ghost Ranch was the obvious place to hold it. August 2013 was the 10th such reunion at Ghost Ranch, now including not only some of the training staff but also our children and grandchildren, altogether 65 adults and 15 children under 10 years old. We spent a week together at this magical place that three generations now love. What started shortly before the reunion with the idea of a possible memorial for some of our group quickly transformed into a gift of 12 new Adirondack chairs for all Ranch guests to enjoy. Fortunately, the Ghost Ranch Service Corps was able to build the chairs in time for our reunion. So one of the reunion activities was to brand each chair “K-IV.”
The South Korea Peace Corps reunion group took time to enjoy a hike to Chimney Rock. Their gift of 12 new Adirondack chairs will be enjoyed by many. When you visit, check to see if the chair you are sitting in has the K-IV brand.
Some K-IVs have become Compadres or Comadres of Ghost Ranch over the years, supporting Ghost Ranch with gifts, much as a Godparent supports a Godchild, and we have made a group donation to the Ranch during our recent reunions. The new chairs are the start of an organized effort for K-IV to give back to the Ranch, which holds such a special place in our hearts. Already, the committee is anticipating our 50th reunion in 2017, and we hope to make a significant gift to the Ranch to mark that momentus event. Two Interns and a College Staffer will work with Eric Garretson, Sustainability Coordinator, this summer. He says that although he and his network of colleagues know a great deal about what is needed and what can be accomplished at Ghost Ranch, he “still learns something new every day” on this job. That statement exemplifies why the visionary and ongoing programs at Ghost Ranch continue to enlighten and sustain the spirit of those who work here and guests who return year after year. Shared by By Cassandra and Sandy Gaines (members of the National Ghost Ranch Foundation and former Peace Corps volunteers in Korea from 1967-69)
Photos courtesy of Sanford and Cassandra Gaines.
Ghost Ranch
is a unique combination of natural beauty, paleontology, archaeology, history, geology and art. It is not just the values of each of these separate aspects of Ghost Ranch, but rather the synergy of its beauty, its scientific value, its cultural and historical traditions, its “wisdom sharing” and its spirituality that make it like no other place in the world.
Address Service Requested
Ghost Ranch Conference Center HC77 Box 11 | Abiquiu, NM 87510 Presbyterian Church, (USA) GhostRanch.org
Non-Profit Org U.S. Postage PAID Albuquerque, NM Permit 1893
your true nature
Photo by Geri Aryault
The intention behind the Ghost Ranch Wisdom Sharing—A Deepening Retreat is: • To allow women and men to be stirred, taught and guided by exceptional teachers/mentors–women who have deep feminine wisdom and life experience.
Wisdom Sharing We are thrilled to offer a retreat this fall at Ghost Ranch that sets a new precedent! Wisdom Sharing— A Deepening Retreat features Alice Walker, Gloria Steinem and Dr. Chung Hyun Kyung.
The event begins Monday evening, October 13th and runs through the Thursday evening, October 16th, with participants departing Friday morning, October 17th.
www.GhostRanch.org
• To break open and explore the breadth and depth of the gift of the feminine voice and feminine leadership in our world today. • To support the continued growth and development of an intergenerational movement, including women and men, which honors and embraces the integration of the feminine voice and leadership. • To gather in a sacred landscape that embodies the wisdom and beauty of the sacred feminine and provides expansive space for creativity, healing and self-discovery. To donate and to register, visit www.GhostRanch.org