Serra Club of Albuquerque

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 SERRA CLUB FOR RELIGIOUS VOCATIONS

MINUTES OF MEETING – MAY 6, 2010

 Serra Club Mission:

To foster, affirm and Promote vocations to The ministry in the Catholic Church

I.  Prayer:  The meeting was called to order by President, Jim McCabe, followed by a reading of the Serra Club Mission and Serran Prayer for Vocations.

II.  Guest Speaker:  Our honored speaker was Father Johnny Lee Chavez, Pastor of Queen of Heaven Parish for the past 11 year, and a priest for the past 34 years.

            Fr. was born in Raton, NM, and related that by the 7^th grade he wanted to enter the seminary; however, by the 9^th grade he had some doubts and began dating and went on to finish high school. After graduation, he still had doubts about the priesthood as his calling, so he joined the military and was honorably discharged in 1968, followed by a variety of job thereafter. He recounted that going to daily mass and communion was the clincher of self doubt and led to a seminary interview with Monsignor Eggert (who by the way was a prior Serra Club Chaplain), who accepted him into the Seminary at Mount Angel where he completed his college education and theology studies.

            Fr. was ordained to the priesthood in 1976, starting with his first assignment in Taos with many more assignments to follow such as at Pecos, San Jose in Albuq, not to mention that throughout his priesthood he served as the military chaplain with the NM National Guard traveling with them to many military conflicts abroad.
 

            Fr. told us that at Queen of Heaven, every mass is started with the Serran Prayer for Vocations which was inspired by past deceased Serran member, Tom Stefan. He thanked the Serra Club for fostering vocations and said that encouraging all Catholics to receive the sacraments daily is the best way for our Club to encourage vocations.

III. New Club Officers: After a reading of the slate of nominated officers by Dan Domme and nominations from the floor, the nominations were closed and the following officers were approved by majority accumulation for the periods June 1, 2010 thru May 31, 2011:

            President                                                                   James (Jim) McCabe

            Vice President Elect                                                 Kay McCollum

            Vice President for Vocations Committee             Melanie Mascarenas

            Vice President for Membership                             Bob Calvani               

            Treasurer                                                                   Onalea White

            Secretary                                                                   Richard Crollett

Congratulations new officers and thank you for your dedication to God and the Serra Club!

IV.  Old Business:

            A.  The New Membership Drive Event will definitely take place on August 6, 2010, at the home of Serran Members, Paul and Onalea White, 11512 Zinfandel Ave. NE. Mass will start at 5:30 p.m., followed by a BBQ. As of yet, we do not have confirmation as to whether Archbishop Sheehan will be able to attend.

            B.  As announced in last month’s minutes, Jim McCabe proffered and the Club approved the initiation of the “Bishop Wants You Program.” The current status is that Jim, along with Paul and Onalea White will head up the committee to get this program off the ground.

            C.  Correction to last month’s minutes, in which it was stated that the “Tax ID” number we utilize for event discounts, belonged to Serra International. The correction is that the ID number belongs to the Serra Club, under the umbrella of Serra International. Also note that as long as the Club does not take in profits of more than $25,000 in one fiscal year, we do not have to report the income to IRS; otherwise, yes.

V.  New Business:

            1.  The Priest Appreciation Dinner Committee met on 4/29/10, and Chairman, Tony Seward, along with his committee announced that:

                        a.  The Albuquerque Hotel (event site) is holding 10 rooms at the discount rate of $109.00 per room thru 5/24/10. Thereafter, they will continue to honor the discount rate depending on room availability. The Gallup congregation will be advised of this.

                        b.  The major sponsor for the gala will be Daniel’s Funeral Home. Other smaller sponsors are still in the works. Additionally, for those wanting to thank an individual priest for their priestly dedication, inserts will placed in the program for that purpose at a cost of $50.00 each.

                        c. Melanie Mascarenas and Jim Burns will coordinate with Celine Radigan on the final power point presentation to be used at the gala.

                        d. Bob Cody is near completion for the advertisement for the event. Our radio ads will began on 5/11/10.

                        e. Ongoing contact with parish pastors is in progress to allow the Club to announce the PAD at their parish masses.

                        f. Dan Domme announced that 700 tickets for the event were printed and will be handed out to members at the regular meeting. Note: that when you sell a ticket, be sure to have the buyer fill in the information on the ticket stub as we will use that information for invitations for following year events.----Should any Club ticket seller need information from Dan, you can communicate with him via e-mail at serraclubalbuquerque@gmail.com, or call him at 883.9645. ----Also note that the Serra Web Site is back up and running at www.serraclubabq.com.

             The next PAD meeting is scheduled for May 18, 2010, starting at 7:00 a.m. at Shoney’s Restaurant located at Louisiana and Menaul NE.

             2.  Associate Pastor at Annunciation Parish, Fr. Joel, was present at our regular meeting and announced that Archbishop Sheehan requested and he accepted a new assignment as pastor for three parishes in Chama, NM, without any deacon assistance.-------He asks that you keep him in your prayers for his success. Fr. thanked the Serran Members for their devotion to the priesthood and mentioned that he said a mass that morning for all of us.

             3.  A new Committee Database Team, headed by Bulla Seward was announced. The purpose of the committee is to coordinate into one database all the lists we have of attendees at Serran events, e.g., PAD, golf tournament, etc., making it easier in the future to send invitations to them.

            4. Make note on your calendar for June 26, 2010, at which time three (3) new priests will be ordained at the Cathedral in Santa Fe. McCabe will be making contacts so that all Serran attendees can sit together at the event.

            5.  Julie Brown announced that she recently entered the Serra Club Newsletter in a contest by Serra International.

Treasurer’s Report:  Treasurer, Onalea White, announced that about 11 members did not send in their dues. As such, she recently sent them reminders.-------Currently, the Club bank assets stand at a little over $25,000.

Upcoming Meetings:

            1. PAD Meeting -- May 18, 2010 at 7:00 a.m. at Shoney’s Restaurant.

            2. Serra Executive Meeting –May 27, 2010 at 7:00 a.m. at Le Chantillys,

                 8216 Menaul NE, in the Hoffman Town Shopping Ctr.

            3.  Serra Club Regular Meeting –June 3, 2010 at 6:16 p.m. Annunciation.

            4.  Mass for Vocations—June 5, 2010 at 8:30 a.m. Annunciation.

Richard J. Crollett

Serra Club Secretary

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SERRA CLUB FOR RELIGIOUS VOCATIONS

MINUTES OF MEETING – April 8, 2010

Serra Club Mission: To Foster, affirm and promote vocations to the ministry in the Catholic Church

I.  Prayer: The meeting was called to order by President Jim McCabe followed by the Serran Pray for Vocations.

II.  Guest Speaker:  Our honored speaker was Father. Rick Zerwas currently pastor at the Church of the Incarnation in Rio Rancho.

          Fr. informed the gathering of his early call to his vocation, inspired as an altar boy and continuing with parents dedicated to God, not to mention uncles, cousins and aunts in the priest and sisterhood. He related that as he grew older his inspiration waned somewhat to the point he was ready to get married; however, God persuaded him otherwise by calling upon Fr. Bruckner of Annunciation Church to invite Fr. Zerwas to live in the rectory and work in the church community for one year. During that period, Fr. realized the priesthood was his calling and at age 27 he entered the Mount Angel Seminary in Oregon and was later ordained to the priesthood at age 30.

          Fr. also shared his appreciation for the Serra and 100 Clubs for their support during his seminary years and invited the Club to come to his parish to recruit new members.

III.  Old Business: 

          A. New Member Drive is in full force scheduled for 8/6/10, starting with mass at 5:30 p.m. and followed by a BBQ. We are still awaiting word from the Archbishop if he will attend and say mass.

         As previously requested, some members brought to the meeting the names and addresses of potential new members who will be invited to the membership event. If you have not submitted any names, please bring them to our next meeting.

          Note: That our regular meeting for August 5, 2010 will still take place even though the member event will take place the next day.

          B.  Golfing with a Padre:  Jim McCabe announced that he has confirmed the attendance of Archbishop Sheehan and the priest community for this event to take place on October 10, 2011. 

          C. Tax ID: It was learned that the tax exempt identification number we utilize for events such as the Priest Appreciation Dinner does definitely belong to Serra International under whose umbrella we fall under.

           D.  Priest Appreciation Dinner Bank Account: This account was held separately from our Serra Club account; however, it has not been transferred and combined with the Serra account. Per OnaLee White, the combined account represents a value of $25,000.

 IV.  New Business:

           A. Club Chaplain:  Fr. DePalma has been understandably very busy with his archdiocese vocation duties and has only been able to attend one Club meeting. Concern has arisen among the members that maybe a replacement or a co-chaplain who can attend meetings may be in order. To this end, Jim McCabe will be meeting this month with Fr. DePalma to discuss the matter and get his thoughts.

           The Club will go ahead with plans to honor our prior chaplain, Fr. Edward Domme who will be honored with a golfing gift at the Priest Appreciation Dinner.

           B.  Election of New Officers:  According to the Club By-Laws, election of new officers should take place every year in the month of June. As such, Dan Domme, past club president, has volunteered to serve as chairman of the nominating committee. Due to the very short duration before elections take place, Dan will be contacting members to serve as officers and trustees.  If God is calling you to serve, please call Dan and volunteer.

           C.  Club By-Laws:  At the recent Executive Board Meeting, it was learned that the Club By-Laws were last amended and published in the year 1997 when the Club had a lot of members. Since that time, membership has dwindled not only locally but internationally, and the Board believes that maybe some of the laws are no longer viable and may even discourage membership. As such, attached is a copy of the by-laws for review. Jim McCabe is asking each of you to review them and make any suggested deletions, amendments or additions and bring them to the next regular meeting. Keep in mind, that some years after the by-laws aforementioned were published, Serra International advised our Club that because of low membership internationally wise, we are not strictly bound to follow the by-laws, but rather do the best we can with the membership we have.

           D.  Vocations Program:  Recently the Club received a letter from Leslie Monette, Director of Youth and Young Adult Ministry for Annunciation Parish, thanking the Club, and especially Julie Brown, Jim Burns, Renee Pagan and Melanie and Matthew Mascarenas, for their efforts and hard work in bringing about a successful vocations event and promoting vocations to ministry in the Church.

 V.  Committee Reports:

           A.  Priest Appreciation Dinner:  Tony Sewart, who volunteered to take over as chairman of this event for Jim Burns who will be retiring and moving back home, reported that the committee is finalizing commitments from both major and minor sponsors for the event.---Gay McCollum has finalized the Hotel booking and set-up events.—Bob Cody is finalizing the event advertising, and Dan and Coleen Domme are finalizing the event tickets and brochures.

           B. New Program:  Jim McCabe announced that while a member of the Arizona Serra Club they had a program called “Bishop Wants You Program,” and he would like to initiate that program within our Club.  The program consists of mailings to the Catholic Community informing them of the Serra and 100 Clubs and a call from the Archbishop to join. The membership overwhelmingly approved, and several members volunteered to assist in the program. The next step is to put the details of the program in writing and submit it to Archbishop Sheehan for approval.

           C.  Miscellaneous:

                   (1).  The next Vocations Mass at Annunciation Church is scheduled for 5/1/10, starting at 8:30 a.m.

                    (2). The next Executive Board Meeting is scheduled for 4/29/10 at 7:00 a.m. to take place at Le Chantilly Restaurant (new location) located at 8216 Menual NE, in the Hoffman Town Shopping Center.

                    (3).  The next Regular Meeting is scheduled for Thursday, 5/6/10 at 6:15 p.m. at Annunciation Hall. Following the meeting, we will have a social at Buca Di Beppo Italian Restaurant. If you plan on attending the social, please contact Gay McCollum.

           /s/

________________

Richard J. Crollett,

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SERRA CLUB FOR RELIGIOUS VOCATIONS

MINUTES OF MEETING – February 4, 2010

Serra Club Mission:  To Foster, affirm and promote vocations to the ministry in the Catholic Church

I.  Prayer: The meeting was called to order by President Jim McCabe followed by the Serran Pray for Vocations.

II.  Guest Speaker:  Our guest speaker was Fr. Cecil Clever, currently with the Jesuit San Diego Friary.  Father attended Catholic grade school and related that by the 4^th grade he knew God was calling him to the priesthood, and when he entered the 8^th grade he joined the Capisin Order Seminary in Cincinnati.  Always having a desire to work with Native Americans, and after completing his high school studies with the Capisins, Father joined the Jesuit Seminary to complete his seminary studies and was ordained to the priesthood in June 1950. Thereafter, he came to New Mexico where he has had various assignments including, but not limited to, Laguna Pueblo, Grants and Gallup.

III.  Old Business: 

          A.  Serra Club and 100 Club Relationships:

           At our last meeting, a decision was tabled as to whether the Club should continue to donate its event profits to the 100 Club being that the 100 Club over the past years has not put forth much impetus to acquire new members resulting in dwindling funds for seminarian support, but rather relying on the Serra Club for financial assistance.

           During discussion, it was clear that the Serra Club has no obligation to provide financial assistance to the 100 Club; however, it was felt that we have a moral obligation to assure that the 100 Club continues to exist in recognition of its long history of seminarian support. In this regard, it was revealed that when the Serra Club conducts its new membership drives, a lot of potential members are reluctant to join because they do not want to attend meetings. The thought surfaced that this could be an opportunity to advise such persons about the 100 Club where no meetings are required, but rather only a $100.00 donation for seminarians.

          After final discussion, a motion was made and passed by both Serran and joint 100 Club/Serran members to wit:

                  a.  The Serra Club will no longer provide financial                        assistance to the 100 Club, but rather will send                        its event proceeds directly to the Archdiocese                        for seminarian support.

                   b.  A Serran Committee will be established to act as                        liaison with the 100 Club to assist it in acquiring                                    new members. (Serran member, Dan Domme                        volunteered to chair this committee – Thanks Dan)

IV. New Business:

          A.  Golf Committee (Tom McCollum):  Tom announced that because our priests are extremely busy on all Mondays in October this would not be a good month for the event as in the past year. The only good time they would be free is on August 30^th; however, that time has already been booked by another golf tournament at the Tanoan Country Club.

          It was noted that at our upcoming Priest Appreciation Dinner we will have numerous sponsors, some of which we would be asking for additional sponsorship a few months later for the golf tournament. So as to not burden such sponsorship, it was suggested, and a motion was made and passed, that the club will conduct the golf tournament every other year opposite the Priest Appreciation Dinner, in other words, we will have the priest dinner this year and the golf tournament next year.

          B.  Priest Appreciation Dinner (Jim Burns - Chairman):  After some conflicts in scheduling, the dinner has been rescheduled and will take place on June 21, 2010. More information later.

          Jim announced that he will be retiring from his job this coming April 2010 (lucky rat), and the family is moving to Kansas shortly thereafter. As such, we need a new chairperson to take over this very important dinner or our priests. Both Jim and President McCabe are asking all members to please think about volunteering for the chairpersonship, or even two persons could be co-chairpersons.

          Additionally, Gay McCollum, chairperson for facilities at the dinner (hotel contract, hotel set up and decorations), announced that her daughter will be having a baby during this time, and she asks for a volunteer to assist her with her facility duties. If God is calling you, please let Jim and Gay know you are willing to help.

          C.  Annual New Membership Drive:  It was decided that the drive should take place in the month of July, a few weeks after the Priest Appreciation Dinner. This way we can promote the membership drive at the dinner. Paul and Onalee White graciously offered their home for this event.  Thank You!  More exact details for this event will be discussed on our next meeting.

          D.  Vocations Development Committee: Words cannot describe the gratitude of the club to Matthew and Melanie Mascarenas and their committee for the highly successful Confirmation/Vocations Day Program they put together which took place on January 10^th at the Annunciation Community Center, not to forget the outstanding Serra Club Newsletter put out by Julienne Brown detailing the event along with event photographs.

          It was announced that the committee will shortly be publishing an article in the People of God Magazine, followed by an announcement on the Catholic Radio, advising the Catholic Community that the committee is available to conduct a vocations program in their parish upon request.

          E.  Change of Regular Meeting Time: Please note that hereafter our regular meeting time is changed from 6:30 p.m. to 6:15 p.m.

          F.  Nomination Committee:  President, James McCabe announced that he would like to set up such committee for the upcoming yearly election of officers. To that end, he will be contacting all past club officers for input.  More information later.

          G.  Executive Board Meetings.  The board decided that these meetings will be changed from Tuesday to Thursday of the month. The meeting time at 7:00 a.m. at Wecks restaurant on San Mateo and Lomas will remain the same.

          H.  Social Committee: At the conclusion of the meeting, the scheduled February social, put together by Gay McCollum, was held at the Buca Di Beppo Italian Restaurant.

          I.  April Regular Meeting: Our regular scheduled meeting in April falls on Holy Thursday.  At our next meeting we will discuss a possible alternative date for the meeting.

          J. Serran Christmas Dinner is scheduled for December 10, 2010. The Tanoan Country Club is holding both upstairs rooms for our party with a first right of refusal in case we do not need both rooms. More on this later.

          K.  The Meeting was adjourned with the Serran Prayer for the Perseverance of Vocations and a blessing led and given by Father Clever.

Richard J. Crollett, Secretary

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SERRA CLUB FOR RELIGIOUS VOCATIONS

MINUTES OF MEETING – SEPTEMBER 1, 2009

SERRAN MISSION:

To foster and promote vocations to the Priesthood and religious life and to further Catholicism by encouraging our members, In fellowship, through education, to fulfill their Vocations to service.

I.                   Opening Prayer for the perseverance of vocations was led by President James McCabe. 

II.                 President’s Report (James McCabe):

         1.     Our new members consist of:

a.     John and Julie Brown

b.     Frank Camacho

c.      Don and Ruthie Devoti

d.     James and Mary Fanning

e.     Angela Heisel

f.       Tom and Beth Lukes

g.     Matthew and Melanie Mascarenas

h.     Thomas McCollum, Jr.

i.        Bill and Barbara McCormick

j.       Renee Pagan

k.     Don and Vickie Powers

l.        Robert Rambes

m.  Paul and Onalee White.

2.     Our guest speaker for September was Father Stephen Imbarrato, a native of New Jersey. Fr. was very forthcoming and related that at a young age his girlfriend became pregnant followed by an abortion which changed his life and led to his lay ministry and the founding of Project Defending Life. Following a career in the restaurant business and corporate world, God keep tugging at his heart which led him to the seminary at Holy Apostle and eventually to New Mexico where he has been ordained as a Priest for 4 years. Currently Fr. is serving at Our Lady of Sorrows in Bernalillo, New Mexico. As to how we Serrans can better foster vocations, he suggested that we pray and fast for vocations.

3.     As we all know, Julie Brown has prepared an outstanding newsletter for the Club. Julie asks that if you have any new ideas or information concerning the Club to let her know.

4.     There is still a need for male volunteer chauffeurs regarding the upcoming Albuquerque Conference of Bishops scheduled for Thursday and Friday, October 1^st and 2^nd . If you are able to volunteer please call Bob Cody or James McCabe.

5.     Member Edward Haddad recently injured his hip in a fall and is in the hospital. McCabe will follow-up on his status, but in the mean time please keep Ed in your prayers and communions.

6.  Recently, the Club received a communication from a Ms. Amanda Chavez requesting financial assistance. She is a native New Mexican and a graduate of Benedictine College obtaining a degree in Theology. After graduation she taught high school theology, including at St. Pius X. She informed us that she was recently accepted for entrance into the religious community of the Franciscan Sisters of the Renewal in New York. Unfortunately however, as a condition precedent to entrance, the policy of the Franciscan Sisters is that one must be debt free. She informed us that her only obligation is her $16,000 college debt and requested financial assistance from the Club.

After some discussion among the members, and although her cause was worthy of assistance, the Club at current has neither funds set aside for financial assistance, nor any written policy in place for future financial assistance requests. As such, it was decided that financial assistance for Ms. Chavez should be on a voluntary basis. To that end, you should have already received an e-mail in this regard from Gay McCollum. As for future such requests, the Club will starting working on a written financial assistance policy. As for funding, a thought is that maybe that some of the profits from the Priest Appreciation Dinner could be utilized for such purposes. More information later.

7.     Tom McCollum announced that to hold our spot at the Tanoan Country Club for our scheduled “Golfing with a Padre” the Club had to guarantee 100 players. Thus far not many have signed up to play, so if you are going to participate, please do not wait until the last minute to sign up. Do it now and remember this is for our Priests who well deserve a day off golfing. You should all be receiving an e-mail shortly with attached golf registration form.

8.     Committee Reports:

a.     Seminary Priest Support Committee. Chairman, Frank Camacho announced that he will shortly be meeting soon with his members.

b.     Social Committee- Chairwoman, Mary Calvani related that she will be preparing a calendar of upcoming social events.

Reminder: Our next Executive Meeting is scheduled for September 29, 2009 at 7:00 a.m. at Weeks (Lomas and San Mateo). The next regular Club meeting will take place on October 1, 2009 at 6:30 p.m. at our Lady of Annunciation. – See you all there!

Richard J. Crollett

Club Secretary

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SERRA CLUB FOR RELIGIOUS VOCATIONS

MINUTES OF MEETING – July 2, 2009

I. Prayers: The meeting was opened with the Serran Prayer for Vocations.

II. President’s Report (James McCabe):

1. James explained the history of the Serra Club and its mission to all new members present. Subsequently, each such member gave a summary about their life.

 2.  The Executive Committee held its first breakfast meeting on June 30^th at 7:00 a.m. This is a meeting of the Club officers in advance of our regular Club meeting of all Serrans. Attendees were James McCabe – President; Gay McCollum – Vice-President; Colleen Domme – Treasurer, and Richard Crollett – Secretary. Also present was Bob Calvini – Membership Committee Chair. These pre-club officer meetings will be continued the first Tuesday of every month.

 3.  Tom McCollum, Chair of the Golf Committee reported that the Serran Golf Tournament is off and running. The location will be at the Tanoan Country Club on Monday, October 12, 2009 with registration time beginning at 11:30 a.m. and tee time beginning at 12:30 p.m. The cost will be $300.00 for a threesome or $100.00 each person. The fourth person will a priest or deacon. The Club will pay for any priest and seminarian who wishes to join in. The Country Club will provide prizes and a BBQ will follow immediately after the tournament. Shortly Tom will be sending all of you a flyer and golf registration document.

The golf committee is still seeking sponsors to help defray the cost of the golf tournament.  If you know of any Catholic Businesses you think might want to be a sponsor, please give that information to Tom. Hopefully we will be able to announce the tournament through the Catholic Radio and Catholic Communicator.

4.  A gratitude to newly ordained (32 days) priest, Fr. Joel Bugas for attending our regular meeting. He has been assigned as the assistant pastor to Fr. Vorhees an Annunciation Parish. Father informed us that he was born and grew up in the Philippines before coming to the USA.  Fr. told us of his history through the seminary and how much the monthly stipends from the 100 Club held him and other seminarians.

Father asked us to pray for him daily and informed us that on August 15, 2009, he will be celebrating his Ordination Thank You Mass at 11:00 a.m. at Annunciation Church.  All are welcome to attend.

5.  New Member Joseph Sandoval informed us that he will be entering the Jesuit Novicet soon.

6.  In order to further the Club’s mission to foster vocations, the Exec. Committee discussed conducting a Serran Vocations Essay Contest among all our Catholic Schools.  More information later.

7.  Appreciation of our Catholic Nuns is long overdue. In the past, discussions were had on combining such appreciation with the Priest Appreciation Dinner; however, because of the number of nuns and the fact that we would pay for their attendance, like we do for our priests, the costs we believed to be to high. Jim McCabe brought to our attention that such recognition event does not have to be elaborate, but rather we could conduct a lunch for the nuns in a parish hall; hopefully with the Archbishop in attendance, and have each nun talk briefly about their life experience. This suggestion will be explored.

8.  Effective with our August 6, 2009 regular Club meeting, the following changes will be made:

          a. We will be changing the site of our meetings from Assumption Parish Hall to Our Lady of the Annunciation Church, St. Francis Hall located at 2532 Vermont N.E. Starting time remains at 6:30 p.m. The pastor, Fr. Vorhees welcomes us.

          b.  Instead of our meetings being held on the 3^rd Thursday of each month, our regular Club meetings will now be held on the 1^st Thursday of each month. This is necessary because Fr. Vorhees cannot accommodate us on the third Thursday. (see attached amended meeting calendar).

                    (1). We are considering a once a quarter pot-luck following our regular meetings at the Annunciation. Mary Calvani has volunteered to coordinate the potluck.

           c.  Our normal First Saturday of the Month Mass at Assumption Church will now be changed to Annunciation Church. Mass is at 8:30 a.m.

9.  The District Director for Serra International out of El Paso, Texas has advised us that she will be attending one of our regular meetings either in September or October, 2009.

10.  A card of condolence for deceased member, Betty Cummings, was passed around for each member to sign and will be sent to her family. Also please keep Ida Mascarenas and her family in your prayers and communions.

11.  Julie Brown, new member has volunteered to Chair the Club Newsletter Committee. Should you have any news or ideas to share with her for the newsletter, please contract her at dulcineacrew@comcast.net

12.  The combined Serra and 100 Club Christmas Party will be held on December 4, 2009, at the Tanoan Country Club with Archbishop Sheehan in attendance. The party will start at 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.  The cost will be $35.00 per person ($5.00 of this amount will cover the dinner costs of attending priests).  More information later.
 

 III.  Treasurer Report (Colleen Domme):

1.  Current Club balance is $8,200.00. Out of this we owe for our Serra International Dues for 2009-2010, plus approximately $1,500.00 in other costs.

2.  Shortly you will be received your Club Dues Statement for 2009 by e-mail. Upon receipt, please download the statement and fill it out and return it to Coleen along with your dues.

IV. Committee Reports: 

          A.  Social Committee (Dan Domme): 

           Dan will be e-mailing all Serran members a date for a social gathering at a Isotopes baseball game. Those wishing to attend should so inform Dan who will purchase the tickets in advance and you can re-pay him at the game.

           B.  Priest Support Committee (Frank Camacho): 

           Chairman Camacho, new member, informed us that he is gathering the names, dates of birth, etc, so the Club can interact with the seminarians on special events.

           C.  Priest Appreciation Night (Jim Burns):

           At our last appreciation night, Daniel’s Funeral Home was our biggest sponsor.  Shortly, the committee will meet with Daniels to discuss their intentions this year and report back. The concern for this event is whether Daniels should be the sole funeral home sponsor or whether we should include others.

           Since the new Bishop of Gallup Diocese will be our main speaker; hopefully some Gallup businesses will want to sponsor the event. To that end, the committee will contact the President of the Gallup Serra Club for their input.

         The follow-up meeting for the Priest Appreciation Committee will be at 7:15 p.m. on July 14, 2009 at Calvani’s Office located at 1406 Rio Grande NW

_____/s/_______

Richard J. Crollett

Club Secretary

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SERRA CLUB FOR RELIGIOUS VOCATIONS

MINUTES OF MEETING – April 30, 200

Prayers:

The meeting was opened with a prayer by Fr. Domme.

New Club President:

President Bob Cody as you may know has taken a leave of absence as President of the Club.  In his place, member Jim McCabe has graciously accepted, with unanimous membership approval, the job as President. Jim as you may recall, was a member of the Tucson, Arizona Serra Club for seven years before coming to Albuquerque. Welcome Jim!

New Member Drive Mass and BBQ:

Just a reminder that Friday, May 1, 2009, the Serran Membership Drive Mass and BBQ will began at 5:30 p.m. at the home of member Bob Calvani located at (deleted by Webmaster). If you get lost, call Bob at (deleted. A big note of thanks to member, Gay McCollum for coordinating this event and to the Calvanis for offering their home for the event

President’s Report – Jim McCabe:

1.  Thus far 47 attendees have signed up for the New Member Mass/BBQ.

2.  Since the Club is in the business of fostering vocations, it was suggested that the Club become more closely involved with Father DePalma, the Archdiocese Vocations Director. McCabe will contact Father about establishing a closer relationship and hopefully getting Father to attend our monthly meetings.

3.  For the benefit of retaining the interests of recent new members we will, unlike the past, consider continuing our meetings through the summer months.

Discussion was had as to what new members the Club should target. The consensus was that we should target a mixture of working and retired persons, as well as the younger generation, but with the emphasis on persons we believe will be active in the Club and help relieve the burned out members.

4.  The next Serran even to take place is a get together by attending an Isotope’s baseball game. Dan Domme is working on this project.

5.  Due to the Lenten Season, we suspended our social restaurant gatherings following the First Friday Mass. Those socials will now continue, but not on a monthly basis. In the restaurant setting everyone is pretty much separated into booths and as such not much camaraderie takes place. Accordingly, we will consider having such events at member homes. Note that we are still in need of a chairman for this event.

6.  Because of the various areas of the city in which members live, a discussion was had as to whether we should continue our monthly meetings at the Assumption Hall. McCabe offered his office for meetings. This issue will be tabled for now until we receive more membership input.

7.  All members are asked to give thought and pray about what thing would make our Club “outstanding”. At the next meeting you will be asked for your thoughts.

Committee Reports:

A.  Priest Appreciation Night – Jim Burns

This committee consists of Burns as Chairman. Gay McCollum who will coordinate the hotel set-up and banquet, and Dan and Colleen Domme who will coordinate ticket sales. In the near future, Burns will call a meeting to pin down additional members need to assist in this event.

The search for a nationally recognized speaker is still on.

B.  Christmas Party – Edward Haddad

The combination Serran and 100 Club Christmas Party is now definitely set for Friday, December 4, 2009 with Archbishop Sheehan in attendance. The event will take place at the Sheraton Hotel on Louisiana NE, starting at 6:00 p.m. The cost will be $30.00 per person, plus tax. Please put this date on your calendar.

NEXT MEETING IS JUNE 4, 2009, AT 6:30 P.M. AT ASSUMPTION HALL.  SEE YOU THERE.

_____/s/_______

Richard J. Crollett

Club Secretary

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Albuquerque Chapter of Serra Club

Meeting Minutes

April 2, 2009

Amended Minutes April 6, 2009.  You are receiving these amended minutes for the following points:

1.  Missing attendee – Jim McCabe

2.  Agreement by Serran members present that costs of Membership Drive Dinner would be paid for by the Serra Club (Rudy’s BBQ and add-ons)

*****

Members Present:

Gay McCollum

Edward Haddad

Colleen Domme – acting Secretary

Dan Domme

Bart Chimenti

John Varney

Anthony Seward

Jim McCabe

Guests: None

Opening Prayer –

Dan Domme – Substituting for President Bob Cody, opened the meeting with a prayer

Presidents Report –

Dan Domme began the meeting by advising the group that Bob Cody has submitted his resignation as president of the Serra Club for personal reasons and read Bob’s letter to the group.

Dan then showed the group a banner sent to the Club to use during this period recognizing that the Serra Club of Albuquerque is 60 years old. He also gave a little history of the club and its membership over those many years. Dan then proceeded to inform the group that there is no one to assume the mantle of president of the Serra Club. And that if this position is not filled by someone in the room or by a member not present at the meeting then the club will go into suspension.

Dan advised the group that if no attending member accepts the position – he will send a note to all non attending members of the difficult position the Club is in. If no one is found to assume the role then simply no more meetings will be called and the club will cease to meet.

A very sad ending to a long run for the Serra Club of Albuquerque. The only loose end will be the currently set committee for the annual Priest Appreciation Dinner. The current chairman, Jim Burns could elect to form up and hold that event. An issue to be determined at a later time.

During the course of the discussion one member advised that he will consider but currently not accept the position. After some discussion it was decided that Dan Domme will send an open invitation via E-mail to all other members outlining the seriousness of the situation along with an appeal for someone to accept the leadership position.

After this somber beginning, it was decided to complete the agenda on the premise that someone will step forward by the next meeting currently scheduled for April 30, 2009.

Treasurers Report – There was no treasurer report this meeting. It was inadvertently left off the agenda.

Committee Updates -

a)      Membership – The membership Mass and Bar-B-Que party has been left on the schedule and Gay McCollum will continue on plans to have it at Mary & Bob Calvani’s house on Friday May1, 2009. All Serran’s should consider possible new members and ask them to come. Also, it is hoped that members took the time to respond to Gay with possible members to invite. This was outlined in an E-mail sent to all members by John Varney. It is agrred by Serran members present that costs of Membership Drive Dinner would be paid for by the Serra Club (Rudy’s BBQ and add-ons).

b)      Social – Bowling – no report – June July activity headed up by Dan Domme

c)      SYP (Student and Young Professionals) Committee – no report.

d)     PAD Chair – no report

e)   Communications – no report

f)   Web –Dan Domme reported that the Web Site is up and running and available for any purpose and posting. The Web Site address is www.serraclubabq.com

e)      First Friday Night Social – no report.

f)       Hundred Club Committee –  Ed Haddad has established December 4, 2009 as tentative date for 100 Club Serra Club Christmas Party. .

g)      Ordination Chair – Tony Seward had copies of the Rail Runner schedule to review along with a possible time table. Some discussion of a bus was mentioned and Tony will review for a report at next meeting if there is one.

h)      Other Chairs – none

New Business – No new business

Old Business – No old business

Guest Speaker – No guest speaker

Closing Remarks – Dan Domme asked again for all to consider the president position and that all members not in attendance will be asked. The meeting was closed with a prayer by Dan Domme.

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SERRA CLUB FOR RELIGIOUS VOCATIONS

MINUTES OF MEETING – March 6, 2009

Prayers: The meeting was opened by the Serran Prayer for Vocations.

Secretary Report – Richard J. Crollett:

The “amended” minutes for the 2/10/09 meeting, did not include as 100 Club Trustee, Shane Jones, which is hereby incorporated by reference and the minutes approved as published.

President’s Report – Bob Cody:

1.  Father Domme suggested that the Club engage in other type “social” events, other than the current Friday night socials after Mass. The purpose of these other socials would be to get members together, especially those who do not attend meetings, to meet and laugh and really get to know one another. Suggestions are socials like bowling, card game and Lobo game nights; Mass followed by an afternoon picnic at member’s home, and even a showing of a religious movie in the parish hall followed by a pro and con discussion of the movie. Unlike other Club socials in which each member pays for the event, the Club would now pay for all member costs. An additional suggestion is that we invite non-members to attend and pay their costs also and hopefully increase our membership.

After a discussion, the membership approved Father Domme’s suggestion. The first social to take place will be a bowling night which Dan Domme volunteered to set it up.

2.  Regarding past discussions on how or whether to assess Club dues on the Student and Young Professionals (SYP) wishing to enter the Club, it was decided that no dues will be assessed for a period of one (1) year. Depending on how many SYP’s join the Club in the first year, we will revisit the issue.

3.  Dan Domme has completed his set-up of the “Serra Club” Web Site.

Please visit the site at serraclubabq.com and let Dan know of any ideas or suggestions you have for the site.  Thanks Dan!

Note: That all future Club Minutes will be posted on this site for your review. Minutes will no longer be sent to you directly.

 4.  The tentative date for next years “Priest Appreciation Dinner – 2010”

is scheduled for June 21, 2010, pending confirmation date attendance by the Archbishop.  In the meantime we need to start looking for a nationally recognized speaker.  If you have any suggestions for the web site, please let Dan know. 

Treasurer’s Report:

Colleen Domme announced that we have a total of 31 paid members. Our Club balance is $8,027.92, not counting an additional $5,000.00 in reserve as “seed money” for the upcoming Priest Appreciation Dinner.

______/s/_______

Richard J. Crollett - Club Secretary

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SERRA CLUB FOR RELIGIOUS VOCATIONS

MINUTES OF MEETING – FEBRUARY 5, 2009

Prayers:

The meeting was opened by the Serran Prayer for Vocations.

Secretary Report – Richard J. Crollett:

The minutes for the November 6, 2008, meeting were approved as published.

President’s Report – Bob Cody:

Dan Domme filled in for Cody who was out of town:

1.  New Members: Welcome Anthony and Beulah Seward.

    Guest: Michael Lautenberg (see more information below).

2.  Helen Stefan informed us that she in now involved in other religious outreaches and is resigning from the Serra Club effective immediately.

3.  As noted in past minutes, Mike Littenberg, who is associated with the Student and Young Professionals (SYP), has volunteered his services to the Serra Club.  His goal is to involve younger SYP’s, ages 18 to 30, in the service of Serra to afford them the opportunity to serve the priesthood and their community and in turn strengthen their bond with Christ and the Church.

Mike passed out a very impressive goal statement for activities he would like to accomplish, with the assistance of our Club, in three steps ranging from 30 to 120 days.

Needless to say, the Club is very lucky to have someone like Mike pursuing God’s work through the Serra Club.

A Discussion was held on how dues would be assessed for SYP’s entering the Club. Bob Cody was informed that an estimated break even cost for SYP’s, is about $75.00 per member, split evenly between Serra USA and International. Ideas circulated at the meeting were:

a.  Charge each SYP member dues of $80.00 per year;

b.  The Serra Club would pay the dues for all SYP’s entering the club for a one year period;

c.  Our Club would pay for the first ten (10) SYP entering the Club for a one year period;

d.  Serran member would have the option to sponsor a SYP and pay his/her dues for a one year period. If not enough sponsors, the club would pick up the remaining SYP’s and pay their dues for one year;

e.  To ensure investments in the Club, each SYP would pay an amount of $20.00 for the first year and the Club would pick-up the rest---or SYP pays $25.00 and the Club the remainder----or the SYP pays one-half dues of $37.50 and the Club one-half of $37.50.

If you have any further ideas, please be ready to share them at our next meeting.

4.  Our Serran dues to USA and International are based upon the list we provide them of active members. To ensure that we are not paying for inactive members, Gerald Bischoff will review and revise the list as necessary.

5.  Ordinations to the priesthood will be taking place in Santa Fe this year around May or June, 2009. In the past, the Club chartered a bus to take members to the ordination, and we would like to continue it this year. Gerald Bischoff volunteered to look in to the actual date of the ordinations and into chartering a bus or maybe utilizing the “Railrunner.”

6.  Edward Haddad, president of the 100 Club, announced that he will be scheduling a meeting to discuss how the 100 Club can better promote itself and acquire new members. He reminded us that at the Christmas Party, the following officers and trustees were inducted into the club.

a.  Edward Haddad                            President.

b.  Deacon, Terry Palmer                    Vice-President

c.  Gerald Bischoff                             Treasurer

d.  Richard Crollett                             Secretary

e. Gay McCollum                                Liaison Serra/100 Club

f.  Dan Domme                                  Trustee

g.  Mrs. Ly Palmer                              Trustee

h.  Tom McCollum, Jr.                         Trustee

The 100 Club dues statements will be sent out in a few weeks.

7.  A reminder about Club Meetings and Socials. Our monthly meetings are held the 1st Thursday of each month at Our Lady of Assumption Hall, starting at 6:30.-----The following day, Friday, is our First Friday Mass/Prayer for Vocations at Assumption, starting at 5:30 p.m., followed by a pre-announced social at a local restaurant.

a.  Tonight’ (2/6/09) social is at Trombino's Restaurant. If you would like to attend, call the restaurant and make a reservation.

b.  The Club is looking for a volunteer to coordinate these socials. If that’s you call Bob Cody.

Treasurer’s Report:

Gerald Bischoff announced that the Club balance is about $10,600, out of which we still need to pay for the Christmas Party.

Committee Reports:

Communications: 

1.  Colleen Domme will be preparing a current “e-mail” list of all active and new  members.

2.  If you know of a sick or deceased Serran/100 Club Member, including their family members, please notify John Varney.

Next Meeting/Mass & Social:

a.  Meeting: Thursday, March 5, 2009, starting at 6:30 p.m.

b.  Mass: Friday, March 6, 2009, at 5:30 p.m./ followed by social at Macaroni Grill.

______/s/_______

Richard J. Crollett - Club Secretary