January 28, 2017

The AGSM meeting was called to order by President Kay Coleman at 12:10 pm, Saturday, January 28, 2017 at her home. Members in attendance were Kay Coleman, Pat Merville, Jo Ann Zembiec, Joyce Montoya, and Becky Christmas. There were no guests.

Minutes: Becky made motion to dispense with the opening procedure and accept Minutes from the previous meeting as circulated. Joyce seconded. Motion passed. Upcoming birthdays and Angelversaries were read.

Financial Report: Kay Coleman reported that we have $3,803.22 in the account. Becky motioned to accept the Treasurers report. Pat seconded. Motion passed.

After detailed discussion, the proposed 2017 budget was drafted to spend more than the projected 2017 income in order to draw down on the balance in the account to better support our mission. The budget will be emailed by President Kay to members, and she will request an electronic vote to approve it.

Correspondence: Thanks received from the Veterans Integration Center for participation in the Stand down. Thanks received from Raymond G. Murphy VA Hospital for Christmas cards. Newsletter from Horses for Heroes received. Donation request received from Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund.

Reports: VAVS –Kay reported that the 2017 meeting schedule is 1pm on 4/12, 7/12, and 10/11 at the Albuquerque VA facility. Meetings are 1 hour and any of our members can attend, in addition to our representative to VAVS.

UVC: Jo Ann emailed the report of the 12/8/16 meeting to our members. She is unavailable for the March meeting, but Becky will represent our chapter.

Current Business

Reminderbands: Becky reported that we have a number of the plastic wristbands on hand that the chapter donated for the 2016 convention. She proposed that members distribute the bands at the 2nd Annual Biker Chili Challenge on 2/18, 11 am – 2 pm @ Indian Motorcycle of Albuquerque. The event is to raise funds to provide food for Run For The Wall riders driving through NM in May 2017. Becky, Kay, and Joyce will attend for our chapter and distribute the wristbands.

Monument: Becky reported that she submitted the application, wrote and read a letter to the Committee that explained the purpose of our organization, and that Becky and Kay have met twice with the NMVMP Foundation Monument Committee to discuss our proposal for a Gold Star Mothers memorial. There is much more work to be done to finalize the design, including the base of the statue. Becky will continue work on the contract with the artist to create the monument and to identify the arrangements by which small versions of the statue will be sold for fundraising, and to confirm how much of the purchase price will go to the artist, and how much to our chapter. The contract will be reviewed and discussed with members before execution. Discussion of fundraising options including investigating creating a Go Fund Me page, suggesting that members post on their Facebook page or by direct contact to friends and relatives to make a donation to honor our Fallen Children by donating to the project, selling bricks that will be placed at the base of the monument, drafting a letter to be sent to multiple organizations and businesses requesting donations. Joyce volunteered to research how to set up a GoFundMe page. We would use Kay’s office address, and the tax ID for the national office. We will be required to track the number of hours that we work on the project to report to the Committee for funding from the city of Albuquerque. Becky made motion to open an account specifically for the monument funds at the Bank of Albuquerque (where our current account is ) in the name of “Gold Star Mothers New Mexico Memorial”. Joyce seconded. Motion passed. Kay and Pat will initiate the memorial account with the bank.

Carrie Tingley Hospital Festval of Trees: Kay reported that because this was our first year to participate in the event, our decorated tree was placed in the section of trees that were raffled to attendees. Becky reported that she and Brad visited the event, and witnessed much attention to the tree, and significant raffle entries for our tree. If we participate in 2017, the tree will be part of the auction.

Legislative: Becky reported a meeting was conducted on 1/13/17 between the NMDVS and the NM State Parks department to discuss the transfer of the Angel Fire State Park & Veterans Cemetery to NMDVS. There may be some federal money to apply towards maintenance. The 2017 session of the NM Legislature has commenced. The Military & Veterans Day is February 23, with a ceremony in the Rotunda at noon. Becky gave an overview of the veterans-related legislation. The full list is available for the NMDVS or users can check bills on the legislative website.

WAA: Although a winter storm prevented many of us from attending in Santa Fe, Joyce, Hiltrud, and Lisa & Louis Bowles were there in December 2016. The Cowan family participated in Silver City.

www.Runforthefallen.org: this is an event sponsored by the Honor & Remember organization that will take runners west to east across the country from 4/1/2018 to 8/5/2018 with marked stops that will pay tribute to every service member who died as recorded by the Department of Defense from 10/12/2000 forward. The event will travel across NM 5/11/18 – 5/21/18. The organization is seeking volunteers to assist with the project by recruiting runners, fundraising, gathering at the Hero Marker stops, and spreading the word to everyone. If you would like to see where and when your child will be acknowledged, go to the website. There is a form to register to stand at a particular Hero Marker, and a form to volunteer. If you are interested, please check the website. The chapter decided not to volunteer as an organization due to the focus on the GSM memorial for the next two years.

NM Fisher House: The project has hit a stumbling point due to a hold placed by the Albuquerque Historical Society requiring a review of the impact of construction to the historical site on the grounds of the Murphy VA Hospital.

National Golden Age Games: Kay will get information. VAVS is the point of contact for the event 8/4/18 – 8/8/18, that is seeking 3,000 volunteers.

Chapter Web Site: www.gsmnm.org. Send photos to Kay to add to the website.

2016 Community Service Report: Our chapter has not yet submitted our report for all members for 2016. Please use the form in your AGSM newsletter and mail or email your hours, miles, and monetary donation report to Joyce Montoya or Kay Coleman ASAP! The chapter/department report is sent to the national office to be compiled and compared to other chapters and is reported to the membership at the national convention.

New Business

Social/Fun Meetings: Kay suggested that we could schedule a few gatherings in various locations across the state during the year that would allow time for us to get to know each other better. Kay will check availability of a condo in Angel Fire for the 2nd, 3rd or 4th week of August for a one night stay for our members, and a tour of the Angel Fire Memorial. We could also host a Gold Star Mother event and invite those who have not joined our organization to get them acquainted with us. If you have suggested locations and dates for other gatherings, please contact Kay with your suggestion.

Fundraising: Becky proposed that our chapter should register as a wreath seller with WAA. For every 3 wreaths sold through our organization, we earn $15. Becky told us that the Texas mothers are fundraising through a dedicated shopping day at Talbots & Chicos, 

Panera Bread. She will investigate the potential for this at the Albuquerque stores. The idea of a field of flags fundraiser was revisited, but tabled at this time. Kay will contact Georgia Montoya to ask if she would be interested in heading the project. Becky will talk with a potential donor about items for an online auction fundraiser. Other ideas were discussed.

Kay proposed that the chapter purchase 1,000 business cards for our chapter to distribute at events. These would be generic with the chapter website and mailing address for donations, and to include the statement, “Albuquerque Chapter American Gold Star Mothers. We support our New Mexico veterans. Donations gratefully accepted.” Joyce seconded, motion passed. Joyce volunteered to place the order for the cards.

Attendance at Memorial Day ceremonies is strongly encouraged. Kay will get more information about date for Blue Mass to honor all First Responders.

Becky has talked with the convention coordinator at the Marriott Uptown about holding the national AGSM convention there in June 2019. It is convenient to shopping and multiple restaurants, has experience hosting VAVS national convention and other military-related events, and has reasonable room rates. She will discuss at the NEB meeting in February.

GSM National Convention will be held in San Antonio Texas on June 16-18. Current attendees will be Pat, Joyce & Kay.

The Women in Military luncheon will be held on March 3rd at American legion Post 49, 11005 Central Ave NE, Albuquerque. This year they will focus on Marines. More information can be found at www.tributetowomeninthemilitary.org

We will discuss Public Relations & Outreach topics in a conference call. Kay will send out information.

Discussed Museum of the American Military Family. The opportunity may be available to do some hands-on projects with them. They also have “Operation Footlocker” that has “Operation Footlocker”. It’s a mini mobile museum treasure chest that is loaned to groups. Kay suggested that we can use this at an upcoming GSM event. http://www.museumoftheamericanmilitaryfamily.org/

Upcoming Events

March 18 meeting hosted by Adrene Adams, 11:30 am @ St. Claire Winery, 901 Rio Grande Blvd NW, ABQ

May 17 Run For The Wall

May 20 meeting @ Pat Merville’s home, Edgewood

July 15 meeting @ Mary Cowan’s home, Silver City

September 16 meeting @ Becky Christmas home, Wagon Mound

November 18 meeting @ Lisa Bowles, Glorieta

Meeting Closed at 3:50 pm.

Respectfully Submitted:

Pat Merville

2016

November 19, 2016

The AGSM meeting was called to order by President Becky Christmas at 2:40 pm, Saturday, November 19, 2016 at the office of Kay Coleman after attendees filled the gift bags to be donated to the Albuquerque VA Hospital. Members in attendance were Kay Coleman, Pat Merville, Lisa Bowles, and Becky Christmas. Associate Members attending were Louis Bowles and Brad Christmas.

Minutes: Kay made motion to accept Minutes from the previous meeting as circulated. Lisa seconded. Motion passed.

Financial Report: Treasurer, Kay Coleman, reported that we have $4,667.73 in the account. Lisa motioned to accept the Treasurers report. Pat seconded. Motion passed.

Correspondence: Thanks received from the Veterans Integration Center for chapter donation. Thanks received from VA Hospital for donation of clothing and composition books. Thanks received from Maria & Carl Seif for the dog tags from Horses for Heroes in memory of Andrew Seif and the yard flag.

Reports: VAVS –Kay reported that our chapter has a credit of 286 hours of volunteer service recorded for FY 2016. Becky has contacted Sonya Brown to continue the procedure for approval for her to volunteer at the Las Vegas VA clinic.

UVC: Jo Ann emailed the report of the 10/13/16 meeting to our members.

Legislative: Becky reported that the Gold Star Family Voices Act was passed by the U.S. Senate on the first day in session post-election. The bill now awaits President Obama’s signature. NM: January 2017 legislative session begins. Anticipate request for money to operate the Angel Fire State Park & Veterans Cemetery, which will be moved to NMDVS from the state park administration. Kay discussed the 8% tax that NM imposes on military retirement income. Pat stated that the UVC has supported a proposed bill to exempt military retirement income for many of the recent years, which has never passed. It is unlikely to pass this year due to the state budget constraints. Proponents would need to demonstrate the economic benefit to the state of retaining military retirees compared to the loss of state revenue from the elimination of the tax. Several of the surrounding states have no tax, or lower tax than NM on military retirement income, so retirees move to those states instead of NM.

Santa Fe National Cemetery: Becky has met the new director, Susan Parks and her associate director, Jared Howard. Susan asked for AGSM to designate a representative to participate on a committee to review programs and suggest potential improvements for the cemetery. If you are interested in this role, please contact Becky.

Old Business

America’s Run for the Fallen: The Honor & Remember organization is sponsoring a run from California to the East Coast from 4/7/2018 to 8/15/2018 to honor Fallen Heroes who served and died as a result of the War on Terror. Family members can apply online to stand at their hero’s marker and/or for other volunteer activities: http://runforthefallen.org/2018-run-information/. The organization needs volunteers for various activities, and to contact organizations and individuals for donations to support this program. Becky and Pat will work together to draft a letter to solicit donations and volunteer help from veterans organizations, ROTC programs, Boy Scouts, etc. to support the run as it passes through New Mexico. If you can assist with this project, please enroll at the website above, and let us know so that we can coordinate efforts.

Forgotten Heroes Funeral: Becky attended. Governor Martinez accepted the flag on behalf of the families of the veterans.

NM Veterans’ Home: After sharing lunch with Edith Matthews, Becky, Kay, and Pat visited with the veterans at the Home in TorC on Saturday, October 8. We brought lap quilts from the BSM, hand lotion, books and bookmarks for 30 residents. In addition to visiting with the women residents, we visited with other residents as they prepared for the Bingo session, and Becky distributed commemoration certificates and pins to Vietnam Veterans. Becky will write an article about the visit to submit to the next national AGSM newsletter.

Festival of Trees: This is a fundraiser for Carrie Tingley Hospital (CTH) Dec. 3-4, 2016; FestivalofTreesnm.com. No entry fee and free parking at the convention center garage. Saturday hours 10 am – 8 pm; Sunday 10 am – 6 pm. The participation fee was waived, but our chapter is providing the tree and decorations. Included in the decorations are stars with a photo and name of each Fallen Hero from New Mexico from the War on Terror. Kay registered our chapter, and we were assigned Tree 31. This is an opportunity for our chapter to get more exposure for potential future donations. Becky will prepare a poster that gives information about AGSM to be displayed on an easel at the tree. Members and other volunteers to assist with the tree setup and decoration should be at the Albuquerque Convention Center at 10 am on Thursday, December 1.

GSM Monument: Becky received notice that the application she submitted was out of date, so we must submit the new form, which requires more detailed information. We need a representative at the meeting of the monument committee on Tuesday, 12/20 to discuss our proposal.

Reminder Bands: Will be distributed in December at the Wreaths Across America event at Santa Fe National Cemetery.

Veterans Day: Pat attended ceremonies at the NM Veterans Memorial Park in Albuquerque.

Veterans Hospital: Kay will take the 80 bags that we assembled today to the hospital.

Veterans Stand Down: Kay and Pat volunteered at this event in Albuquerque on 10/27.

Chapter Web Site: www.gsmnm.org. Send photos to Kay to add to the website.

New Business

Not Forgotten Outreach Appreciation Ski Week: Taos Ski Valley hosts the 4th annual event January 17-22, 2017. Invitees include Gold Star Families, veterans, active duty personnel.

WAA: December 17. Pat made motion, which Kay seconded, and passed to purchase 20 wreaths for Santa Fe National Cemetery and 20 wreaths for Fort Bayard National Cemetery. Next year we will investigate selling the wreaths as a fundraiser for our chapter.

Fundraising: Talbots, Chicos: Becky told us that the Texas mothers are fundraising through a dedicated shopping day at these stores. We will investigate the potential for this at the Albuquerque stores next year.

Election of Officers: The nominating committee will send the proposed slate to the president to send to members at a later time.

2017 Meeting Dates: Will be discussed at a later time.

2019 Convention: Becky will meet with Terri Cole of the ABQ Chamber of Commerce in early December and will start checking with hotels for potential site to conduct the convention.

Upcoming Events

November/December calendars prepared by Kay included in PDF file.

Meeting Schedule

Next Meeting: To be determined.

Meeting Adjourned at 4:50 pm.

Respectfully Submitted:

Pat Merville

September 17, 2016

The AGSM meeting was called to order by President Becky Christmas at 12:45 pm, Saturday, September 17, 2016 in the home of Lisa and Louis Bowles. Members in attendance were Kay Coleman, Pat Merville, Lisa Bowles, and Becky Christmas. Associate Member attending was Louis Bowles, Glorietta, NM.

Minutes: Kay made motion to accept Minutes from the previous meeting as circulated. Lisa seconded. Motion passed.

Financial Report: Treasurer, Kay Coleman, reported that we have $3,512.28 in the treasury. Pat motioned to accept the Treasurers report. Lisa seconded. Motion passed.

Correspondence: Thanks received from the Veterans Hospital Ward 7 and the Volunteer Services leadership for the chapter donation.

Reports: VAVS – No meeting since last AGSM meeting, so no update.

Military Day @ State Fair: Our chapter was represented by Kay Coleman, Pat Merville, Hiltrud Ridenour, and Joyce Montoya. We presented the AGSM Challenge coin to NMDVS Secretary Jack Fox, Rear Admiral Phillip Sawyer, and Col. Kenneth Nava of the NM National Guard. We discussed that the band playing while we read the names of the Fallen is too loud and distracting, and agreed that Becky will contact the NMDVS and the NM State Fair Commission to request that the band does not play during the reading of the names. Becky will submit the photos from the event and will write a news story to submit to the national AGSM newsletter.

Legislative: Gold Star Voices legislation was voted on in the U.S. House and passed. The bill will now go to the U.S. Senate, so watch for notice to contact your Senator for support of the bill.

Old Business

Festival of Trees – This is a fundraiser for Carrie Tingley Hospital (CTH) Dec. 2-4, 2016. Kay learned that if the chapter participates by decorating a tree with a theme of Gold Stars for the Fallen Heroes, it will require a $1,000 donation to CTH for a 6’ or 7’ tree. Kay learned that we can request a waiver of the fee as a non-profit organization or solicit another group to donate the cost. Kay is certain that she can get $500 donated towards this cost. The cost of decorating the tree would be from the chapter funds or from donations from members. This would be an opportunity for our chapter to get more exposure for potential future donations. We can display a poster that gives information about AGSM at the tree. Kay will get further information in the next few weeks and report to the membership.

NM Veterans’ Home – We will meet with the women veterans at the Home in TorC at 1 pm on Saturday, October 8. We will take Edith Matthews to lunch prior to the meeting. We are bringing a donation of a book and handmade bookmark for each of the 30 women residents, and will purchase a hand lotion for each. Later in the meeting there was discussion of the Corrales woman, Debbie Wharton, who contacted Becky about donating a quilt. JoAnn called her, but she decided to keep it until we decide how to use it. Pat suggested that we present it to one of the residents of the Veterans’ Home during our visit. Becky will contact the donor to reach agreement with this plan. For those in the Albuquerque area, we will meet at Kay’s office on Carlisle at 9:30 am to carpool with Becky to the Home.

VA Hospital items – We will assemble gift bags at the November 19 meeting. Motion made, seconded, and passed to spend $300 on items for the bags. Members who want to assist with the shopping will meet at 9:30 am, 11/19 @ the Dollar Store, 4610 Cutler Ave. NE, ABQ, to buy items. Meet at 11 am at Kay’s office, 2917 Carlisle NE to assemble gift bags and conduct AGSM meeting.

Memorial –Discussed submitting the application to the NMVMP to reserve a spot for the memorial. At the conclusion of the meeting, Becky completed the form, made a copy for our records, and will mail it this week. We agreed that the target date for dedication of the memorial will be June 2019, during the national AGSM convention, which will be in Albuquerque that year. We discussed that we could request donations or support in fundraising for the memorial from VFW, American Legion, and Amvets organizations across the state. After the meeting, Becky sent email to members requesting 2 members to volunteer as co-chairs of the committee for the Gold Star Mother Memorial.

New Business

Fundraisers: We will ask Georgia and/or Kay to contact Balloon Fiesta Park, VFW lodges, and American Legion to ask about the cost to rent their facilities. These would be locations for a Field of Honor. Becky and JoAnn will request details about arrangements required if we show the movie about the Korean War as a fundraiser, which was offered to JoAnn by Terry Schotkoski. More information at www.spiritof45.org. There is a capacity of 150 at the NMVMP. We could use the facility at no charge, but would need multiple showings to earn enough money for the effort, so need volunteers. We would target early 2017, or near a holiday to conduct this movie fundraiser. We will continue to sell the handmade greeting cards for $1 each, and will offer them for sale at the state BSM convention.

VIC Stand Down – 10/27 & 28 @ the Rock at Noonday, 2400 Second Street. Volunteers and donations needed. Motion made by Lisa, seconded by Pat, to donate $100 to the event. Motion passed. See flyer in PDF file attached to Minutes email. Contact: Wendy or Fermin 505.265.0512.

Vietnam War Commemoration Events: 9/30/16, 10 am Las Vegas Veterans Park. Vietnam Moving Wall sponsored by American Legion Riders Chapter 28 in Moriarty 10/20 – 10/24. 11/11 – 11/13 Tucumcari Chapter NMSODAR Veterans’ Day events. See flyers in PDF file attached to Minutes email.

Carol and Pat Harris are volunteering with Travis Manion Foundation. In October, a project to work on a veteran’s home will be conducted in Gallup. Contact Carol and Pat for further details.

Member New Address: LaNeel Pierce is at Hope’s Assisted Living, 251 Francis Avenue, Raton, NM 87740.

De’on Miller, 941 Forest Park Road, Daleville, Alabama 36322.

AGSM Web site- The national website will have links to the department and chapter websites, but the national office will not include local information on the national website. Kay is working on reloading photos to our chapter site and updating information.

Upcoming Events

September/October calendars prepared by Kay included in PDF file.

Meeting Schedule

Next Meeting: November 19, 11 am, at Kay Coleman’s office, Carlisle Office Center. We will assemble hygiene bags for VA Hospital. Those assisting with buying items, meet at 9:30 am @ Dollar Store, 4610 Cutler Avenue NE, Albuquerque.

December 17, Wreaths Across America, Santa Fe National Cemetery

Meeting Adjourned at 3:05 pm.

Respectfully Submitted: Pat Merville

July 9, 2016

The AGSM meeting was called to order by Secretary Pat Merville at the Horses for Heroes bunkhouse at 11:45 am, Saturday, July 9, 2016. Those in attendance were Kay Coleman, Carol Harris, Joyce Montoya and Pat Merville. Becky Christmas joined by phone for part of the meeting. Associate Member attending was Pappy Harris. Joyce’s sister, Georgia Montoya, was a Guest.

Minutes: Kay made motion to accept Minutes from the previous meeting as circulated. Joyce seconded. Motion passed.

Financial Report: Treasurer, Kay Coleman, reported that we have $4,345.78 in the treasury. Joyce motioned to accept the Treasurers report. Carol seconded. Motion passed.

Correspondence: Thanks received from the Veterans Hospital for the cards our chapter sent to patients.

Reports: VAVS – Kay reported that for the year to date through April 2016, our chapter has credit of 19 hours of volunteer time that was donated to our chapter by a non-member, Leann Brewly.

National Convention – Pat reported on the election of national officers, including Becky Christmas as 2VP. The next newsletter will list all officers. Extensive renovations are continuing at the Gold Star Mothers Manor in Long Beach. The National Executive Board (NEB) signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Boy Scouts of America. Vietnam Veterans have donated new flooring for AGSM headquarters. Members are urged to monitor progress on passage of the Gold Star Families Voice Act, which would allow family members of Fallen Heroes to participate in the Library of Congress Veterans History Project. Members are also urged to contact their representatives concerning the amendment by Rep. Martha McSully to the HR 5293 Defense Authorization Bill that cuts funding for military bands. The Army military band performed at our closing banquet this year, and they were wonderful. If you use Amazon Smile service, please designate AGSM to receive ½% donation of your purchase amount. There is a project to reach inactive members (those who have not paid dues for the past 2 years) to encourage them to become active again. There were 1,322 inactive members as of 6/20.

Old Business

Reminderbands – Our chapter donated the bands that were included in the convention goodie bags. We have the excess bands, and those present discussed whether to sell them as a fundraiser, or give as gifts to speakers or supporters. How to use these bands remains undecided.

Horse Quilt Raffle– We exceeded the $1,000 goal for the quilt raffle, raising total $1,570. Kay and JoAnn presented the quilt to JoAnn Hudson, of the Catholic War Veterans, who was the winner drawn on Memorial Day by Frank Koehler.

Monument – Consensus of members is that the face of the proposed figure needs to be made more feminine, and that the skirt should dip between the legs for modesty. Carol and Becky will contact the artist to request changes, which will then be reviewed again by our members. The final design has not been selected. Becky was notified by Mary Cox from the NMVMP that the Board was contacted by a different group about installing a Gold Star Mother memorial. Becky asked Mary to tell the Board not to accept this because we are working on a monument. It is possible this was the Gold Star Family Foundation that is targeting installing a monument in every state, but this is not confirmed.

Memorial Day – Luis Lopez – Becky and Carol presented the handmade quilt from Jan Jacobs to Luis Lopez, a long time volunteer at the Angel Fire Vietnam Memorial and a veteran of service in Vietnam, on Memorial Day at the Angel Fire Memorial.

Festival of Trees – This is a fundraiser for Carrie Tingley Hospital (CTH) Dec. 2-4, 2016. Kay learned that if the chapter participates by decorating a tree with a theme of Gold Stars for the Fallen Heroes, it will require a $1,200 donation to CTH. Kay will contact CTH to ask if they will waive the fee for us as a non-profit organization. This would be an opportunity for our chapter to get more exposure for potential future donations, but we may not be allowed to accept donations during the event. Then we will discuss whether to participate based on the cost to us.

NM Veterans’ Home – Becky has not been able to make contact with the person at the Home to set the date for our visit.

VA Hospital Items – At our 11/19 meeting, we will assemble the bags for the ABQ VA Hospital.

New Business

Documentary – PBS seeking Gold Star Mothers from the Vietnam era to be interviewed for a documentary to be released in 2017. Becky talked with Carmen Lopez, who approved giving her contact information to the producers. La Neel Pierce’s daughter told Becky that the family may allow an interview with her if a family member is present to assist. Becky has not yet reached Edith Matthews to discuss the interview.

A flyer was distributed at convention on Every Star Tells A Story, a compilation of true stories written by Gold Star family members that is projected to be published Spring 2018. Stories should be 300-600 words. Get more information and submit your story to: [email protected] or phone: 949-829-0012.

AGSM Scholarship – Grace Darling Seibold Scholarship is offered to AGSM members who have been a member for 5 years or longer. It is valued up to $17,000 towards a Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree to be earned at Columbia Southern University through an online program. Information will be in the newsletter or given to Department Presidents to disburse. Selection of scholarship awardee will be announced on Gold Star Mother Sunday in September.

Cruise – Check AGSM national website and/or the newsletter for cruise offered in Spring 2017.

Booster Campaigns – The NEB is planning future Booster Campaigns, such as the recent t-shirt sale that was offered for a limited time, which did not require upfront money from AGSM, and resulted in a donation to AGSM for each shirt sold by the vendor. Information will be sent through Department presidents and in the newsletter.

Fundraisers -Members discussed conducting a Field of Honor or Healing Field fundraiser with flags at Balloon Fiesta Park. The RGVBSM have rented space at the park in the past for Remembrance Run fundraisers. Kay will check costs to rent the facility. Kay discussed the information that she found through Colonial Flag Foundation, which sends packets, including the U.S. flags, to the sponsoring organization, but requires $15 each to be paid to them. We discussed other possible sites, such as VFW, American Legion, Amvets, etc. This project would take at least a year to plan and execute, so further discussion will be continued. We also discussed showing a veteran-produced movie at the New Mexico Veterans Memorial Park at a charge of $15/attendee as a fundraiser. Jo Ann has more information about the movie. No decision was made about the movie showing as a fundraiser.

Member Moving – De’on Miller has moved from Lovington to Florida, so she is likely to transfer her membership to a chapter in the new state. Members send best wishes to De’on in settling into her new home.

Pat presented an article from the Albuquerque Journal that a Vietnam Veteran, John “JT” Trujillo has built a parade float dedicated to the 398 New Mexicans who died in the Vietnam War, which he makes available to organizations that would like to host it for patriotic events. Pat suggested that our chapter could partner with the United Veterans Council to bring it to the NMVMP for Veterans Day 2016. Contact information: 575-377-3274 or [email protected].

Pat presented an article from the Albuquerque Journal that discussed the variations from state to state in determining the circumstances when a governor declares that the U.S. flag should be lowered to half staff. Suggestion was made to investigate the state regulations in New Mexico, and to include this aspect in future presentations on flag etiquette.

(Articles are attached to Minutes.)

Upcoming Events

Becky was unable to prepare a list of future birthdays, angelversaries, etc. due to family obligations. Attached are the July and August calendars that Kay prepared.

Meeting Schedule

Next Meeting: September 24, at Lisa Bowles’ home

November 19, 11 am, at Kay Coleman’s office, Carlisle Office Center. We will assemble hygiene bags for VA Hospital.

December 17, Wreaths Across America, Santa Fe National Cemetery

Meeting Adjourned at 1:45 pm.

Following the close of the meeting, the members gathered at the Gold Star Plaque to present the dog tag in honor of SSgt. Matthew McClintock his mother, Joyce Montoya. Rick Iannucci told us that the permanent dog tag for SSgt. McClintock will be mounted on the Gold Star Plaque soon.

Respectfully Submitted:

Pat Merville

May 21, 2016

The AGSM meeting was called to order by President Becky Christmas at the home of Kay Coleman at 12:40 pm, Saturday, May 21, 2016. Those in attendance were Becky Christmas, Kay Coleman, Lisa Bowles, and Pat Merville. Associate Member attending was Louis Bowles. No guests.

Minutes: Kay made motion to accept Minutes from the previous meeting as circulated. Lisa seconded. Motion passed.

Financial Report: Treasurer, Kay Coleman, reported that we have $4,287.02 in the treasury. Lisa motioned to accept the Treasurers

report. Pat seconded. Motion passed.

Correspondence: None

.

Reports:

VAVS – Kay reported that for the period of October 2015 to April 2016, our chapter has credit of 49 hours of volunteer time that was donated to our chapter by a non-member.

Celebration of Veterans’ Integration Center – Kay reported that she bought several trays of vegetables and fruits with the donations gathered at the March meeting from individuals. The event was well attended.

NMBSM Convention – Becky & Kay each received an Honor & Remember flag in honor of their sons at the convention in April.

KAFB Anniversary Banquet – Becky & Kay attended as AGSM representatives.

Old Business

Horse Quilt Raffle– Ticket sales have exceeded the $1,000 target. Mary Koehler’s son Frank will draw the winning ticket following ceremonies on Memorial Day 2016 at the NMVMP. Kay will ask if some BSM members will sell the handmade greeting cards and raffle tickets on Memorial Day, before the drawing. If those BSM members can’t do it, then no further raffle sales after May 29. All tickets and monies must be delivered to Kay no later than May 29.

Run for the Wall- Riders from both the Central and Southern Routes will travel through Albuquerque on their way to Washington, D.C. for Memorial Day.

Pecos American Legion Post 70 – The donation that was passed at the March meeting has been sent to the Post. The manufactured building has been received, but the pad needs to be poured before it can be erected. The Post still needs more money to cover the full cost.

Festival of Trees – This is a fundraiser for Carrie Tingley Hospital (CTH) Dec. 2-4, 2016. If the chapter participates by decorating a tree with a theme of Gold Stars for the Fallen Heroes, it will require a $250 donation to CTH. The chapter would also have to provide the decorations. This would be an opportunity for our chapter to get more exposure for potential future donations. Kay will get more details about the deadline to register to decorate a tree. Then we will discuss whether to participate.

Boots on the Ground – Becky gathered information about an event held in Florida. The Amvets ran the event and had 5,000 boots. There was a photo of a Fallen Hero and a U.S. flag placed in each boot, but no dog tags. We discussed whether to have 2 dog tags on each boot, which would let the donor take one of the dog tags when he/she makes a donation. We discussed methods to solicit military boots, such as contacting the SOS. We concluded that we cannot get this organized to conduct the event in 2016, but may consider it for next year. Another potential fundraiser would be a Field of Honor flags. Kay received an information packet about Field of Honor or Healing Field [of U.S. flags]. After she reviews the material, she will report at an upcoming meeting.

National Convention – travel expenses - Kay made motion to pay $750, the amount in the 2016 budget for convention expenses, to reimburse the delegate’s expenses to represent the chapter at the national convention. Lisa seconded. Motion passed. Pat Merville is the chapter delegate. Becky Christmas is participating as a member of the National Board, so her expenses are handled under the national board budget.

Quilt Donation by Jan Jacobs – Jan sewed a quilt for a veteran. Becky suggested Luis Lopez, a Vietnam Veterans from Wagon Mound who volunteers at the Angel Fire Vietnam Veterans Memorial. Becky picked up the quilt from Jan and will present it to Luis on Memorial Day at the Angel Fire Memorial.

Reminderbands – Kay made a motion, Lisa seconded, to spend up to $100 on plastic wrist bands to give to attendees at the AGSM national convention. Motion passed. Any excess bands will be retained by our chapter to gift to our donors or to sell as a fundraiser. Kay and Becky placed the order online following the conclusion of the meeting so the order will be delivered to Becky in time to take the bands to the convention.

New Business

Visit to Veterans Home, TorC- The May 7 visit was cancelled due to conflict with town parade and other celebrations that day. We discussed potential future dates of 8/6 or 9/17. Becky will contact the staff at the Home to set a date for our visit.

Cards for WWII Veterans – Participants at the meeting wrote Thank You cards that will be given to WWII veterans when they return from their Honor Flight visit to Washington, D.C. June 3. Pat will take them to Dot Brossard on Monday, 5/23 to deliver to the Honor Flight volunteers.

Items for VA Hospital – We discussed the items requested for the patients. Pat moved, Kay seconded, to spend $200 for clothing items on the Wish List. Motion passed. Kay will buy a variety of items about mid-June.

GSM Monument for NMVMP – Discussion about potential fundraising methods, the design, and the projected cost. Attendees decided that we should vote on the design before we conduct any fundraising. Becky will discuss with Duke Sundt to get more information on his revisions to the design that he showed the group during a meeting in 2015. Becky reported that the national Gold Star Mother monument cost to reproduce is about $70,000. Other designs are also under consideration.

Angelversaries Birthdays

6/23 Joel Dahl 5/25 Pat Merville

6/5 Greg Miller

6/12 Jo Ann Zembiec

7/1 Aaron Austin

Upcoming Events

May 30 Memorial Day

June 18, 10 AM Vietnam Veterans Commemoration, Santa Fe Veterans’ Memorial

June 23 -26, AGSM National Convention

Meeting Schedule

Next Meeting: July 9, 11 am, Horses for Heroes Bunkhouse. Becky gave Rick Iannucci the information so that he can get the dog tags made for Matthew McClintock to add to the Gold Star Plaque at the bunkhouse.

September 24, at Lisa Bowles’ home

November 19, 11 am, at Kay Coleman’s office, Carlisle Office Center. We will assemble hygiene bags for VA Hospital

December 17, Wreaths Across America, Santa Fe National Cemetery

Meeting Adjourned at 2:30 pm

Respectfully Submitted:

Pat Merville

March 26, 2016

The AGSM meeting was called to order by President Becky Christmas at the home of Jo Ann Zembiec at 1:45 pm, Saturday, March 26, 2016. Those in attendance were Becky Christmas, Kay Coleman, Jo Ann Zembiec, and Pat Merville. Guests attending were Maria Seif, Joyce Montoya Helgesen, and Joyce’s mother Cecila Montoya.

Minutes: Minutes from the previous meeting were accepted as circulated.

Financial Report: Treasurer, Kay Coleman, reported that we have $3,636.19 in the treasury. Jo Ann motioned to accept the Treasurers report. Pat seconded. Motion passed.

Correspondence: Thank You letters acknowledging our chapter donations were received from Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund, Horses for Heroes, and Bear Paw Quilt Guild. Letter also received from Edith Matthews.

Reports:

UVC- Jo Ann reported that the UVC is seeking members for the New Mexico Veterans Memorial Park (NMVMP). The Swing Dances at the NMVMP continue monthly on the last Saturday of the month at 7 pm. Schedule is on the website for the NMVMP.

VAVS – Kay reported that the VAVS national convention will be in Albuquerque May 3 – 5, 2016. Kay will lead the Pledge of Allegiance on Friday at the convention. Non-AGSM volunteers have contributed their volunteer hours at the Albuquerque VA Hospital to the Albuquerque Chapter of AGSM so that from October 2015 to February 2016 we have a credit of 20 hours of volunteer work. VAVS volunteers are attending Isotopes Game May 17, 12:05 pm $9.50 each. Kay will attend to represent AGSM. If you would like to be a Deputy Representative to the VAVS, please notify Becky or Kay.

Rededication of PNM Veterans Memorial – Pat reported that the PNM Veterans Memorial has been moved from the Alvarado Square site to the PNM Aztec facility and will have a rededication ceremony on 3/29 at which she will talk about the origins of the Memorial in 2006 and about the perspective of an employee whose family member served in the military.

Old Business

Website- The national website has the wrong link to our chapter website. Becky will check with the Webmaster. It should be www.gsmnm.org.

Fundraising Horse Quilt –Ticket packets have been distributed and members can request more from Kay. Tickets are $5 each. $740 in ticket sales have been turned in so far. Drawing will be Memorial Day 2016 at the NMVMP. Jo Ann will ask Ken O’Keefe if we can sell tickets on Memorial Day at the park, then conduct the drawing after the conclusion of the ceremonies.

State Veteran’s Cemetery at Fort Stanton- A Town Hall meeting hosted by the NM Department of Veterans Services will be held on March 30 at Fort Stanton to discuss the status of the new cemetery.

Dues & Membership- Dues were payable no later than March 1. Kay drafted a reminder which will be sent to members who have not yet paid for 2016.

CSR & VAVS Reports-Members are reminded to track your volunteer service hours and mileage and monetary donations during the year to report in December.

Bataan Memorial Death March- Becky and Brad participated in the 14.2 mile walk, but Mary and Tip Cowan did not participate this year due to Tip’s health condition. There were about 6600 participants. Four survivors of the original Death March greeted participants at the finish line.

New Business

Potential Fundraisers- Christmas Tree Star Ornament fundraiser: Kay approached 2 people, but no progress on this yet.

Combat boot fundraiser: Becky will do research. Booster Campaign: Becky reported that the national board will be sending information for sale of t-shirts from April 1 – 30. Watch for email notice.

Pecos American Legion Post 70-Louis Bowles is a member of this Post and notified the chapter that the Post is raising funds to build a new building, which will also be used as a community center. Kay made a motion to donate $200 to the building fund. Motion seconded by Jo Ann. Motion passed.

Trip to Veterans Home, TorC- Our members are invited to join in the visit with the women veterans at the Veterans Home on Saturday May 7. There are 30 women veterans there. We will bring a yellow rose in a vase for each lady and visit with them. Becky will finalize the plans with the director, and email the time to members. After that we will visit with our member in TorC, Edith Matthews.

WW Amputee Golf/Softball Game, April 1-3, Kay distributed a flyer for the event.

Carrie Tingley Festival of Trees-We discussed the potential for our chapter to decorate an artificial tree as a method of raising awareness of our organization. The funds raised will all go to Carrie Tingley Hospital. This was tabled to the next meeting.

Veterans Integration Center is holding a celebration of their 10 years on April 10, 3 – 6 pm @ NMVMP. Kay volunteered to bring appetizers for the event. After discussion, members decided to make individual contributions rather than a chapter donation. $43 in donations were given to Kay to buy the appetizers. All are invited to attend.

National convention- Delegate elections were held during the Department of New Mexico meeting. See those minutes. The chapter will pay for the hotel room for the delegates. Travel expenses and convention registration expense will be paid by the delegates. Becky has been asked by several members of the NEB to run for Second Vice President. Our chapter will submit a nomination letter for Becky for this position to the NEB in compliance with convention rules and deadline.

Flowers for NM BSM Convention- Discussion held that our chapter will purchase a floral arrangement to give to the Blue Star Mothers for their state convention April 16 at the NMVMP. Becky will buy the flowers and take to the convention. Additionally, there will be a presentation of Honor and Remember flags to Becky Christmas and to Kay Coleman in honor of their sons, at 10:30 AM at the convention.

Horses for Heroes- Becky was notified that Rick and his group are building an indoor arena. They will hold a dedication ceremony, to which we will be invited.

Upcoming Events

Former POW Recognition Ceremony, April 6, 11 AM, Auditorium Building 39, Education @ Raymond G. Murphy VA Medical Center, 1501 San Pedro Dr SE, Albuquerque. Contact: Trudi Valdez, 505.256.2774

National Submarine Day, April 9, 5-9 pm, Sheraton ABQ Airport Hotel, 2910 Yale Blvd SE. $40/person. Make reservations online www.nmnavylegue.com

KAFB 75th Anniversary Banquet- April 16, 5 pm, 150th Special Operations Wing Hangar 1043, 2251 Air Guard Rd SE, KAFB. $28/person. RSVP: 505.846.599. Civilian dress: USO 1940s attire or formal.

Unfinished Business

Becky proposed that our chapter pay for plastic wrist bands to include in Goody Bags at national convention. They will say, “American Gold Star Mothers - we support veterans”. She will check with NEB on the number needed, but likely to be between 100 and 150. Sample bands can be found at www.reminderband.com.

Paws & Stripes has a Wish List of requested items posted on their website.

Meeting Schedule

May 21, 1 pm, at Pat Merville’s home

July 9, 1:30 pm, Becky as hostess, possibly at Horses for Heroes Bunkhouse

September 24, at Lisa Bowles’ home

November 19, 11 am, at Kay Coleman’s office, Carlisle Office Center. We will assemble hygiene bags for VA Hospital

December 17, Wreaths Across America, Santa Fe National Cemetery

Angelversaries                           Birthdays

3/15 Tim Bowles                          3/1 Don Zembiec

3/23 Tamara Long Archuleta        3/8 Todd Christmas

4/1 Wayne Simmons                    3/29 Gary Koehler

4/16 Leon Pierce                          4/15 Shane Harris

4/26 Aaron Austin                        4/17 Tim Bowles

                                                    4/27 Donella Mackmiller

Meeting Adjourned at 3:30 PM.

Respectfully Submitted:

Pat Merville

March 26, 2016 - Department Meeting

The meeting was called to order by President Becky Christmas at the home of Jo Ann Zembiec at 1:25 pm, Saturday, March 26, 2016. Those in attendance were Becky Christmas, Kay Coleman, Jo Ann Zembiec, Pat Merville. Guests attending were Maria Seif, Joyce Montoya Helgesen, and Joyce’s mother Cecila Montoya.

Jo Ann Zembiec made a motion to nominate Kay Coleman and Pat Merville as delegates to the national American Gold Star Mothers convention. Motion seconded by Becky Christmas. Motion passed by acclimation.

Jo Ann Zembiec made a motion to nominate Becky Christmas as Second Vice President to the national Executive Board of the American Gold Star Mothers for the 2016-2017 term. Kay Coleman seconded the motion. Motion passed by acclimation.

Department meeting closed at 1:45 pm.

Respectfully submitted,

Pat Merville, Secretary

2015

November 14, 2015

The AGSM meeting was called to order by President Becky Christmas at the office of Kay Coleman at 10:30 AM, Saturday, November 14. Those in attendance were Becky Christmas, Kay Coleman, Lisa Bowles, Mary Koehler, Jo Ann Zembiec, Pat Merville, Louis Bowles, and Frank Koehler.

Minutes

Minutes from the previous meeting were accepted as circulated.

Financial Report

Treasurer, Kay Coleman, reported that we have$2,072.79 in the treasury. We still were waiting on the $1800+ that was sent to National to be refunded. Becky had contacted the Nat. Treasurer and she was to send it. Becky will follow up on it again.

Correspondence

Thank you was sent to BSM for the rose plaque gift on GSM Sunday. 

Old Business

Veteran’s Day – No members were able to attend at any location this year.

“My Communities” Program – Jo Ann reported that no updates are available because the United Veterans Council meeting was cancelled on November 12.

WAA – Event is December 12. For the Santa Fe National Cemetery, the program will start at 10 am. The Civil Air Patrol has contacted us to participate in the opening ceremony. Lisa Bowles will pick up prior to 12/12 the wreaths that our chapter ordered and will bring them to the cemetery that day.

Chapter Meeting December 12 - We will hold a chapter meeting following the laying of the wreaths at Weck’s , 2000 Cerrillos Road, (St. Michael’s Road & Cerrillos Road) Santa Fe. Election of officers and vote on the 2016 budget will be held during this meeting.

C&BL – copies of the current AGSM Constitution and Bylaws have been mailed to members.

Tsosie Family – Kay delivered the $100 donation from our chapter to the family of the Fallen Hero when they were in Albuquerque to meet the return of his body.

Membership packets – Kay mailed 7 packets to potential members.

Fundraising Horse Quilt –Ticket packets have been distributed. Felicia Hale had contacted Becky as she had received the raffle tickets and was excited about selling them. She informed Becky that her daughter's DOD was wrong on our membership list. Donella died on Dec. 1, 2003. 

New Business

VA Hospital Bags – The members present prepared approximately 80 comfort bags, which will be taken to the VA Hospital, Albuquerque.

Dues – 2016 annual membership dues are due by 12/31/2015. The cost is $30 for national and $5 for the chapter, for a total of $35. Please send your dues to Kay Coleman, or can be paid at the 12/12/15 chapter meeting in Santa Fe.

Convention- The 2016 national convention will be in Savannah, GA, Thursday, 6/23 through Saturday, 6/25. Kay has reserved 3 rooms for our chapter members. After the election of chapter delegates, unneeded rooms will be released.

Budget- Kay presented a draft of the chapter budget for 2016. Discussion resulted in some changes. The revised proposed budget based on the discussion is attached. There will be a vote to accept the budget at the 12/12 meeting.

Unfinished Business

The chapter does not currently have a working website. The previously no-charge website will now carry a charge of $75/year. The national AGSM website may also host a chapter website. Becky will check with national on the conditions of maintaining a chapter website associated with the national site. Kay offered to investigate the fee site, and will work on preparing photos and information for the site. JoAnn will contact a MOAA member who is experienced with website maintenance, and might be able to assist us.

Meeting Adjourned at 1:20 PM.

Respectfully Submitted:

Pat Merville

September 12, 2015

Duke Sundt and his wife Suzanne were guests at the lunch which preceeded the meeting. Prior to the meeting Duke showed us 3 models of a proposed design of a mother sitting and holding a folded memorial U.S. flag. He discussed potential costs and types of materials that are resistant to vandalism to use to create a life-sized statue and ideas for fundraising by selling small tabletop-sized models.

Meeting called to order at 1 pm by President Becky Christmas. Members present: Kay Coleman, Jo Ann Zembiec, Lisa Bowles, Pat Merville, Becky Christmas.

Reading of minutes from prior meeting waived because they were approved by email.

Financial Report: Account balance as of 6/28/15 is $2,381.17.

Correspondence: Becky received a letter from Edith Mathews listing the contact person for the Truth or Consequences Veterans Home. Becky is working with that lady to determine how our chapter can support their residents.

OLD BUSINESS

Veteran’s Park Monument: Discussion of whether we should proceed with project to place a Gold Star Mother memorial monument at the New Mexico Veterans Memorial Park. Decision was made that the president would call for a motion via email to members. If the motion is made and seconded, then an email vote will be taken on whether to proceed with the project. An action plan will be developed.

GSM Pins: $38 was spent to purchase Next of Kin pins for mothers of non-KIA Fallen Heroes. One was sent to Mrs. Yazzie, and 2 pins are on hand for future distribution

AGSM Trademark: Any use of the AGSM trademark must now be approved by the national office. This includes if individual members use the logo on business cards. Kay contacted Mona to get the forms that must be submitted to get approval of the use of the trademarked logo. Kay or Becky will submit a request for the chapter to use the logo on letterhead, envelopes, flyers, etc. Approval from national is required to use the logo for each special event.

Fisher House: The Albuquerque Fisher House is to be built in 2016 and open in 2017. The Military Order of the Purple Heart has donated $14,000 towards this project. Location will be at the VA Hospital grounds, north of the portable buildings. We discussed a method for our members to raise donations for the Albuquerque Fisher House by asking our friends and relatives to make a donation in honor of our fallen children on their birthday or angelversary date, or in place of a birthday or holiday gift for us mothers.

VAVS: Kay is our representative and has been attending meetings. Several volunteers have donated their time on behalf of our chapter: Courtney Getchell, Matthew Buress, Shubham Chadha, Alexis Rippy. At the end of the year, Kay will report for the AGSM chapter Community Service Report the total hours donated by these non-AGSM volunteers.

New Business

Santa Fe National Cemetery: Communications to AGSM from the director of the cemetery about special events has been poor, and the events have not been well organized. The director does not seem to understand the proper role for Gold Star Mothers at the events. Becky and Lisa will ask for a meeting with the director to attempt to make improvements.

Military Day-September 15: Becky and Brad Christmas and Jo Ann Zembiec will represent our chapter to read the names of the Fallen Heroes at this event at the NM State Fair.

GSM Sunday: Mothers are invited to a potluck picnic on the grounds of the New Mexico Veterans Memorial Park on Sunday, 9/27 from 1-4 pm. This is hosted by NM Survivor Outreach Services. Kay stated that this event is a NM National Guard families event, but Kori Williams, the SOS representative for NM included the Gold Star Families. Jo Ann stated that MOAA is holding their meeting inside the building at the Park starting from 2-5 pm, and she will be attending that to accept a donation check from MOAA to our chapter. Kay will also attend the MOAA event. They will try to spend some time at both gatherings.

Blue Star Mother’s Donation: Blue Star Mothers New Mexico Chapter 3, Rio Arriba County, of which our associate member, Nina Zentz, was a member, disbanded and they voted to donate the balance in their account to our AGSM chapter. They donated $888.93 to us. Becky sent the Thank You note to them.

CB&L Booklets: Kay made a motion, and Lisa seconded, for our chapter to buy 10 copies of the Constitution and Bylaws for AGSM for a donation of $3 each. Motion passed. Becky will buy these at the national office when she is there for Gold Star Mother Sunday and executive board meeting in September.

Fundraising-Quilt: Last month Kay picked up the horse-themed quilt donated by the Jemez Mountains Bear Paw Quilt guild. After discussion on how to use the quilt, Jo Ann made a motion, and Kay seconded it, to hold a raffle for the quilt as a fundraiser for our chapter. Motion passed to sell tickets at $5 each. The drawing will be held on Memorial Day 2016. All members are asked to sell raffle tickets. Becky will write a cover letter that will explain the purpose of the raffle and include a photo of the quilt that members can show to potential ticket buyers. Kay will draft the ticket design and get them printed. Packets of 10 tickets will be distributed to members. Pat will send a thank you note to the Guild for the quilt.

NM Veteran’s Home: Becky has learned that there are 40 women residents at the home. They are asking for art supplies, and comfort supplies.

VA Hospital Bags: We will pack the bags at our November 14 meeting, which will be at Kay’s office on Carlisle, Albuquerque. Some of these bags may be sent to the NM Veteran’s Home and some to the VA Hospital. Please collect small sized toiletries, socks, etc.

Other: Pat presented the Smithsonian magazine article about the writing of the Pledge of Allegiance in 1892 by a children’s magazine writer, and the campaign to have the Pledge conducted each morning in classrooms across the nation.

Jo Ann talked about the Rio Grande Patriots Patriot Gala in July that included the display of the NM state Fallen Heroes poster and their photos were printed in the program. She will contact them to ask that they inform AGSM ahead of time so that we can attend next year. Jo Ann and Kay will attend the Military Appreciation Dinner on 10/18 at Hoffmantown Church to represent us.

Kay shared a list of veterans’ memorials and monuments in New Mexico, and information on the New Mexico state Veterans’ Cemetery Program. She was contacted by SWAT, a coalition of military and community members supporting service members and their families. She will attend their 9/17 meeting. The Veterans Service Organization commanders meeting for NM will be 10/14, and Kay and Becky will attend. The ABQ Stand Down on 10/15 & 10/16 was discussed. Kay was asked to get more information for next year’s event. Kay will prepare about 20 information packets about our chapter to send to potential members derived from the list of families who were invited to the Horses For Heroes Fallen Heroes Plaque dedication.

Kay presented several ideas for potential fundraising. One idea is a Gold Star Hero Tree Project. Becky will contact Cindy Long to discuss whether this could be added to the Long family’s annual tournament in honor of their daughter. Another fundraiser discussed was to hold a Cross-Fit Exercise Event, similar to what Jo Ann’s daughter-in-law, Pam, has conducted for several years. Jo Ann will get information from Pam and pass it on to members. A Field of Flags or Field of Boots event was discussed. Recently Fort Hood held such an event with donated Army boots. Donations are made to list a Fallen Hero on each set of boots. Becky will contact Jack Fox to discuss the potential to create such a Field of Boots memorial when each of the new state veterans’ cemeteries is dedicated.

October Meeting: Discussed whether to hold a meeting in October. Jo Ann will host the meeting on October 17 at her house at noon. The remainder of the meetings for 2015 are listed below.

Meeting Adjourned at 3:30 pm.

Angelversaries

10-4 James Pirtle

10-12 Christopher Merville

11-1 Gary Koehler

Birthdays

9-15 Joel Dahl

9-30 Charles Lopez

9-30 Cecilia Yazzie

10-20 Michelle Bowman

10-22 LaNeel Pierce

Meeting Schedule

November 14

December 12

Respectfully submitted,

Pat Merville

Recording Secretary

March 14, 2015  

Meeting called to order at 1:27 PM by President Becky Christmas.

Attendees: Kay Coleman, Becky Christmas, Carol Harris, Pat Merville, Jo Ann Zembiec. Associate members: Don Zembiec and Pat Harris.

Opening prayer led by Carol Harris.

Pledge of Allegiance led by Americanism Chair Pat Merville.

Minutes of January 2015 meeting: Carol made motion, seconded by Jo Ann to dispense with the reading of the minutes and to accept the minutes as sent to members.

Financial Report given by Kay. Balance in the account is $5,829.90.

Old Business

Women in Agriculture Conference, May 27. At this time, no AGSM members are planning to attend.

VAVS: National convention will be in Albuquerque at the convention center on April 22-23. The Parke Award Luncheon in Thursday, 4/23. A GSM from Arizona has been nominated as Volunteer of the Year, so it Becky encouraged our members to attend. Ann Davis, AGSM National VAVS representative will be attending. Members in the Albuquerque area will tentatively plan to meet with Ann the evening of 4/24.

Gold Star Mothers Monument: Jo Ann & Becky researched GSM monuments installed in other locations and presented pictures of several other installations. Jo Ann got more information about the contact if we proceed with a project to place a monument at the New Mexico Veterans Memorial Park. The contact is: Matthew Carter, City of Albuquerque projects Coordinator, Public Art Urban Enhancement Program, 505.768.3804, [email protected]. The process requires the group to submit an application and to raise the funds to cover the full cost of the monument plus an additional 10% of that cost to cover lifetime maintenance. We discussed the possibility of vandalism, so we would eliminate choices with parts that could easily be broken. Becky will check on the copyright for the Andrew Chernoff statue and will contact Duke Sundt, an artist in Las Vegas, NM who does bronze work if he could produce a copy in state to reduce shipping costs. No final decision was made on the design.

NM Veterans Memorial Park: Jo Ann reported of the change of staff at the park due to Roger Knights resignation. The new Board of Directors has been elected. The foundation is seeking to get more youth involved at the facility and the programs. Volunteers to be docents and tour guides are requested. Training session will be April 12, 7 pm at the park.

NM Fallen Heroes Poster: Lisa got a copy for the chapter from the NMDVS. Louis gave it to Becky. The consensus of the members was for Becky to get the poster framed before April 11 so that Pat can take it to display while giving her talk about AGSM at the NM Blue Star Mothers convention.

Fisher House: no update.

Warrior Memorial Race: June 20 at NM Expo grounds sponsored by AUSA (Association of United States Army). Kay will email more details to our members.

Run for the Wall: The riders are expected in Albuquerque at the NMVMP on May 14. American Legion Post 13 is coordinating the greeting and feeding of the group. Blue Star Mothers will be donating desserts, and AGSM members are asked to partner with BSM on the desserts and serving them. More details will be provided by Kay when available.

Name Badges and Membership Cards: Magnetic name badges have been distributed. Plastic membership cards are available from the national office.

Flag Day Ceremonies in Santa Fe: Saturday, June 13, 9 AM at the Veterans Memorial Stage at the Bataan Building, Santa Fe. AGSM have been invited to bring our organization flag and stand. Becky, Lisa, and Pat may be able to attend.

New Business

NM Veterans’ Home: Becky made several attempt to contact the home in T or C to determine their needs and what our chapter can do to assist them, but has not had a reply from the Recreation Director.

Mary Teater Memorial: Becky is preparing a speech about Mary that will be given during the memorial service at the national AGSM convention. Kay moved, and Jo Ann seconded, to donate $100 to the national AGSM in honor of Mary. Motion passed.

Election of delegates to AGSM National Convention: Chapter delegates elected by acclimation are: JoAnn Zembiec, Pat Merville and Kay Coleman. Becky Christmas will participate in her role as national Sergeant- At- Arms. The chapter will cover the cost of the air travel to/from convention and the hotel stay. Delegates will pay for registration and other costs.

NEB Nomination: Cindy Kruger asked Becky to run as Sergeant- At- Arms. The Department of New Mexico must submit the nomination form to the NEB. Pat will do this in her role as Department Vice President.

Healing Field of Honor: Kay was contacted about AGSM participating in an event in Farmington during 2015. When she gets more information, she will report to the chapter.

Report from NEB: Becky reported on the February meeting of the NEB. The duties of the Historian have been revised to put more focus on the veterans and less on the president’s scrapbook. Work continues on cataloging historical items, which might be stored at the GSM Home in Long Beach. The national treasury is running low and less donations have been received to defray the costs of convention. The Vietnow organization has discontinued paying for the banquet cost for delegates. The registration fee had not been increased in many years, and rather than charge separately for the meals, two meals, a reception, and several smaller expenses are all included in the registration fee. Members are encouraged to buy an ad in the convention journal, whether or not you attend the convention. This helps to cover convention costs. Kay made a motion, seconded by JoAnn for the chapter to purchase a full page ad. Motion passed. Becky and Kay will design the chapter ad.

Potential Chapter Fundraising: Our chapter funds will need to be replenished by a fundraiser this year. One idea discussed was to raffle a quilt donated by the Jemez Mountains Bear Paw Quilt Guild. Pat will contact the guild to ask if they will allow us to raffle the horse-themed quilt that they created in 2014 for the Horses for Heroes Cowboy Christmas event because that event was not held.

Another idea was to buy small flags to sell for donations to display similar to the Healing Field of Honor. This could be done at the time of the ground breaking for the Gold Star Mothers memorial (not likely during 2015) or at one of the newly designated state veterans cemeteries. Becky will get more information about the specific cities within NM that have been designated for veterans cemeteries.

Upcoming Events: Becky sent these by email prior to the meeting. Additional event that Kay announced during the meeting: March 29, 2 PM-Santa Fe National Cemetery ceremony to honor Vietnam Veterans. More info: SFNC Director James Sanders, 505.988.6400 or [email protected]

Next AGSM meetings: May 9, 11 AM at Jo Ann Zembiec home, Albuquerque. Bring your own lunch.

Meeting adjourned at 1:18 pm.

Respectfully submitted,

Pat Merville, Secretary

2014

November 8, 2014

The AGSM members met on Saturday, November 8, 2014 at Kay Coleman’s office . Those present were Kay Coleman, Becky Christmas, Pat Merville, and Jo Ann Zembiec.

The members organized all the donated items into categories and then proceeded to pack approximately 80 comfort bags for the veterans. (Thank you Michelle Bowman and Pat Merville for your generous donations.) The bags will be taken to the VA Hospital by Kay Coleman to be distributed to veterans in the hospital.

The meeting began at 12:55 PM with a prayer and pledge of allegiance led by Becky.

Acknowledgements: November and December acknowledgements were read by Kay.

Minutes: Becky moved that we approve the minutes as circulated via email. Pat seconded the motion.

Treasurer’s Report: The treasurer reported that there is $6,096.20 in the treasury, same as last month. The MOAA check for $1,000 has not been deposited yet. Jo Ann moved to accept the treasurer’s report, seconded by Becky.

Old Business:

UVC

Jo Ann reported that the Veterans Day ceremony will begin at 10 AM on Tuesday, Nov. 11, 2014 at the NMVM Park.

Fisher House Foundation ABQ

Jo Ann reported that there is no further information regarding when the FHF ABQ House.

GSM Monument

Jo Ann reported that the monument, depending on size and stone choice, would cost approximately $8,600. It was suggested by Becky that we meet at Worthen Memorials on Dec. 5 at noon to pick out a stone and ask about down payments and costs so we can proceed with the application to the city for monument approval.

Horses for Heroes

It was the consensus of the group that the H4H ceremony on Oct. 18 was a huge success. However, there was some disappointment as to the number of “no shows” who said they would come, but didn’t.

Kay will mail “new member packets” to those who didn’t attend the ceremony in hopes that they will become GSM members.

It was agreed that a framed GSM coin would be given to the Olive Garden as a thank you for catering (gratis)the H4H event.

It was agreed that the quilt donated by Quilt Works be given to Horses for Heroes. The gift will be presented by Becky to Rick and Nancy Iannucci on December 4 at the Cattle Growers Convention at the Pyramid Hotel.

Jo Ann moved that we donate $300 to H4H. Motion was seconded by Becky and passed.

The quilt donated to GSM by Jemez Mountain Bear Paws Quilters Guild will be held at Bear Paws until a decision can be made on what to do with it.

VAVS

Becky will check on updates for the VAVS convention here in Albuquerque.

Military Order of the Purple Hearts

It was reported that the movie Brothers at War was well attended earlier in the morning at the NMVM Park sponsored by the MOPH. It was filmed by Jake Rademacher and starred his two brothers, Joe and Isaac Rademacher and their lives in Iraq.

New Business:

Paws and Stripes

Jo Ann made a motion to donate $300 to Paws and Stripes. Motion was seconded by Becky and passed.

Community Service Hours

Please have your community service hours to Kay by January 1, 2015.

Operation Home Front Answer the Call

Kay spoke about this organization that helps veterans and their families. She will do more research on it and report back.

GSM Name Tags

Becky showed us her GSM name tag and suggested we get name tags to wear at meetings and events. Kay will get the prices for each.

GSM Sunday, September 2015

It was suggested by Kay that our chapter, in addition to an informal gathering for GSM, have a separate event to honor our donors.

Thank you card from Edith Matthews

A nice thank you card from our visit with Edith Matthews was read and circulated.

Women In Agriculture Conference

Becky reported that on May 27, 2015 during the Women in Agriculture Conference, there will be a Patriot Luncheon from 12-1 PM for the troops and their families sponsored by the Beef Battalion. The American Beef Battalion feeds military families. Kay moved, Jo Ann seconded, to donate 150 flags to their conference. Becky will order the flags.

New GSM Membership Cards

New GSM membership cards will be issued upon request. They are plastic and more durable than the paper ones we have.

Annual Dues is Due

All membership dues are due by January 1, 2015. It is $25, five dollars of which stays in our chapter. Please make your checks to AGSM. Carmen Lopez , Edith Matthews and Mary Teater’s dues will be paid by our chapter because our policy states that our chapter will pay dues for anyone over the age of 90.

Proposed Annual Budget

The treasurer presented the 2015 proposed annual budget. Jo Ann moved to accept the proposed budget, Becky seconded the motion. The budget will be attached to the minutes.

Slate of Officers for 2015

Kay presented a slate of officers for 2015. New officers are as follows:

President, Becky Christmas; Vice President, Jo Ann Zembiec; Treasurer, Kay Coleman; Recording Secretary, Pat Merville; Parliamentarian, Becky Christmas; Corresponding Secretary, Lisa Bowles; Chaplin, Jo Ann Zembiec; Sargent-at- Arms, Pat Merville; Americanism, Pat Mervile; Historian, Kay Coleman.

Department Heads are as follows:

President, Becky Christmas; Vice President, Pat Merville; Treasurer, Kay Coleman; Secretary, Jo Ann Zembiec

Pat moved that we approve the proposed slate of officers, Jo Ann seconded the motion. The motion passed.

Wreaths Across America (WAA)

Becky moved that we donate 10 wreaths for Ft. Bayard National Cemetery and 20 wreaths for Santa Fe National Cemetery this year. Jo Ann Seconded the motion and it was passed. Kay will order the wreaths today. WAA is December 13.

Meeting was adjourned at 2:55 PM

Respectfully Submitted

Jo Ann Zembiec, Secretary

June 18, 2014

Meeting called to order at 6:15 pm by President, Kay Coleman.

Attendees: Kay Coleman, Becky Christmas, Pat Merville, Michelle Bowman, Jeanette Yazzie. Guests: Mary Teater’s daughter Adrene Adams and Mary’s sister Alena, Brad Christmas and CY Yazzie.

A special presentation of the certificate of appreciation and recognition from the Department of Defense Vietnam War Commemoration for the service in Vietnam and the ultimate sacrifice made by Army Specialist 5 Wayne Simmons was made to his family. Because Mary Teater was not able to travel to Albuquerque this year, the certificate and lapel pin was accepted by SPC Simmons’ sister, Adrene, on behalf of her mother.

Becky reported on national board activities: There is a new membership application form. A policy will be announced at the national convention concerning the use of the AGSM logo. Amendments to be voted on at the national convention are the same as were presented at the 2013 convention with the addition of an amendment that will eliminate the requirement for the president to appoint 2 positions, the parliamentarian and the corresponding secretary. The president may appoint those positions, but would not be required to do so. This will save the national board from paying travel expenses for 2 additional members. Each chapter is asked to donate a basket of items to be raffled as a fundraiser at convention. On behalf of the chapter, Becky purchased several New Mexico-themed items that will be presented in a gold-colored cowboy boot.

Motion made by Kay Coleman, and seconded by Pat Merville to reimburse Becky Christmas $119.77 to pay for items that the chapter will donate to convention gift fundraiser. Motion passed.

Horses for Heroes dedication of Fallen Heroes Dog Tags Plaque: Because several members have reported to the president that they will not be able to attend the proposed July date for the event, it will be rescheduled. Nancy has been notified. The proposed date is either Saturday, October 18 or Sunday October 19. Members are asked to notify the president of your preferred date. Nancy has told Kay that H4H will not be conducting the Cowboy Christmas fundraiser this year.

The members discussed possibly directing our fundraising efforts this year to supporting Paws & Stripes in Rio Rancho since there will not be a H4H fundraiser.

Adrene donated 25 adult bibs sewn by members of her quilt guild in Montana for the patients at the Albuquerque Veterans Administration Hospital.

Upcoming AGSM meetings:

July 12 – Kay will ask Lisa Bowles if she would like to host since the May meeting was cancelled. September 13 – Mary Cowan will host the meeting at her home in Silver City.

November 8 – Kay’s office at Carlisle Office Center, Albuquerque. During this meeting we will assemble goodie bags for the veterans. Please continue to collect items to include in the bags.

Meeting adjourned at 7:35 pm.

Respectfully submitted,

Pat Merville, acting Secretary

March 8, 2014

The Albuquerque Chapter of American Gold Star Mothers met on March 8, 2014 at 11 AM, at 2917 Carlisle, NE, the office of Kay Coleman. Prior to the meeting, Kay Coleman, Pat Merville, Becky Christmas, and Brad Christmas cleaned out the storage boxes of supplies that the Chapter had stored previously at the BSM Troop building.

The meeting was opened in due form and the minutes of the previous meeting were approved as corrected. Those in attendance were: Kay Coleman, Pat Merville, Becky Christmas, and Brad Christmas. One guest, Jim Spiry, also joined us.

Our guest speaker was Jim Spiry, father of Jesse James Spiry, who died shortly after receiving his Second Lt. bars. Jesse died of a brain tumor. Jim spoke of his journey through his grief and his plan to take audio interviews from Gold Star Dads and families, one from each of the 50 states. We have his contact information and will pass it on to the rest of the membership.

March and April calendar acknowledgements were read for Angelversaries and birthdays.

The Treasurers report was given by Pat Merville and is attached. The checking account balance is $7,546.94.

Old Business

The GSM stored items were gone through and will be stored at Kay’s office, Carlisle Office Center, 2917 Carlisle NE, Albuquerque, NM.

Becky reported on the AGSM National Convention, which will take place in June. Becky announced she will be running for Recording Secretary for the NEB. We will elect delegates at our May meeting. There will be proposed amendments to the C&BL and these will be published in the upcoming newsletter, along with the Call to Convention and registration forms.

Becky also reported that the National organization is in need of financial help from the Chapters. She gave an example of the need for a new storm door on the front of Headquarters. It was the consensus of those in attendance to ask Maria Martens, NSO, to research what a storm door would cost, as our Chapter might want to donate that to the National Headquarters.

Becky spoke of upcoming Legislation that will be listed in the newsletter. She also passed out information on the LTC Todd J. Clark Hero Flight Act and asked each member to read it and see if they would like to ask our Congressmen and women to sponsor and support it. See attached.

Becky also mentioned that the cemetery bill passed our NM Legislature and we will continue to be informed of it.

A thank you was read from the Jemez Mountains Bear paw Quilting Club for our recent donation. Kay announced that our other budgeted donations were sent in January.

New Business

An email was read concerning the 2014 Run For the Wall, which will stop May 15 at the NM Veteran’s Memorial. Requests were made for donations or sponsorships. It was moved by Becky to donate $200 to this cause. The motion was seconded and it was decided to put it to the membership for an E-Vote. We will have discussion and a deadline for the vote, as directed by the President.

The Vietnam Traveling Wall will be in Santa Fe for six days, beginning March 18. We have been asked to read the names of the NM Fallen from Vietnam, on March 22. So far Becky has given the names of Kay, Pat, Becky, Brad, Elisa and Louis Bowles. Becky will check with the Pat Harris’ and the Yazzies to see if they are able to attend. She will also find out about parking at Ft. Marcy Park, where the event will be held, and the Pre-Vigil Procession.

Becky reported on the recent NEB meeting in Washington, D.C. We have new membership cards and there is a new, updated membership form. Finances are a concern for the NEB.

Further Business

Kay is working on getting Vietnam Mothers certificates for our GSM who do not have them. We hope to have them so we can present them this summer.

It was suggested to have the July meeting in Angel Fire or possibly at the H4H Headquarters in Santa Fe. Brad suggested we have the meeting and the dedication of the GSM Wall the same day.

The Horses For Heroes mailing was discussed, as well as the proposed newsletter. Kay will contact Nancy about these issues and the possible meeting and dedication in July.

We have a new member. She is Cecelia Yazzie. She does not have email but is listed on our new membership list. Kay has sent the welcome letter to her. Becky is also writing a form letter to encourage other GSM to join AGSM.

Kay announced upcoming events. They are:

March 22- Name reading of NM Vietnam Fallen, Santa Fe

May 10- Chapter meeting, Elisa Bowles’, Glorieta

June 14- Massing of the Colors, Santa Fe

June 26-30- AGSM National Convention

July 12- Chapter Meeting

The meeting was closed in due form by the President.

Respectfully submitted,

Becky Christmas

January 11, 2014

The AGSM members met on Saturday, January 11, 2014 at the home of Don and Jo Ann Zembiec at 11:30 AM in Albuquerque, NM. Those present were Kay Coleman, Pat Merville, Becky Christmas, Don and Jo Ann Zembiec.

President Kay Coleman read “A New Year” poem by Robert Longley of Sacredpoems.com. January acknowledgements were read by Kay.

The circulated minutes of the last meeting were moved to be approved by Becky Christmas, seconded by Pat Merville.

The treasurer’s report was circulated and discussed. The balance in our treasury is $8,253.64. Kay moved to accept the treasurer’s report, seconded by Becky. The proposed budget for 2014 was circulated. Copy on file.

2014 Officers:

Since Michelle is unable to attend Saturday meetings, President Kay Coleman appointed Becky as vice president. The officers for 2014 are Kay Coleman, President; Becky Christmas, Vice President; Treasurer, Pat Merville; Recording Secretary, Jo Ann Zembiec; Corresponding Secretary, Elisa Bowles. Department Officers remain the same.

UVC:

Jo Ann Zembiec, UVC representative, reported that the BSM will take down the Christmas decorations at the New Mexico Memorial Veterans Park (NMMVP) on February 1 at 9:30 AM. Anyone wishing to help is welcome. The first Saturday lecture series continues beginning on February 1 at 9:30 AM. It has been very well received in the community.

A free bus to the VA Day at the Roundhouse is scheduled to leave the NMMVA Park at 7:45 AM on February 17. Reservations for a seat on the bus call Mir at the NMMVA Park. The bus will not stop at Paseo del Norte this year due to construction at that intersection.

The Blue Mass will be held at St. Pius on the West Side on Tuesday, March 4, 2014. For more information call Fred Hudson, Catholic Veterans, at 856.0257.

BSM Storage of GSM Items:

Becky and Kay will meet at Kay’s office on Saturday, March 8 at 9:00 AM to work on organizing these items and boxes. Anyone wishing to help is welcome.

Wreaths Across America:

Kay reported that Mary Cowan and her group of Marines laid 1,404 wreaths at Ft. Bayard National Cemetery on December 14, 2013. It was a huge increase in the number of wreaths this year compared to last year. Awesome job Mary.

Pat Merville will contact WAA to ask about the process to inform the local leaders for WAA at each cemetery about the special relationship between WAA and AGSM. The goal is to prevent future misunderstandings about the participation of family members of the Fallen Heroes in the opening ceremony on the annual WAA Day, and to assure that our members have the opportunity to place wreaths for which we made donations to WAA. Becky to find out at the next National Board meeting if any other chapter had issues with the WAA website when placing orders, and their local representatives and events.

Kay has printed out all the names of NM Fallen Heroes from the War on Terrorism and where they are buried. The majority of those who are buried in NM are buried in Santa Fe National Ceremony. Approximately 10 each are buried at Ft. Bayard, Carlsbad, and Farmington. Many NM veterans are buried outside the state of NM.

New Member Packet:

Kay reported that the new member packets are complete. Kay will purchase folders to put these packets in.

AGSM Monument:

Jo Ann reported that she will meet with Roger Knight, UVC, and see what options Worthen Memorials may have for a GSM monument at the NMMVP. A full figure bronze would cost about $32,000. We will ask about a less expensive monument in stone.

AGSM Convention, June 26-30:

The National Convention will be held in Lancaster, PA on June 26-30, 2014. Kay has booked three double rooms for this event. Delegates to the convention will be determined at a later date.

Snowball Express

No one was able to go to send off the Snowball Express families at the airport this year.

Gov. Martinez’s Initiative for More VA Cemeteries:

Becky offered to follow up and update the chapter as to the bill number and what has transpired so far. Members are encouraged to contact their state representatives to support the bill, and if possible, to attend committee hearings in support.

Submissions for Newsletters :

Becky will be in charge of submitting photos and chapter information to our national newsletter. The form for submitting news and photos was given to those present. Copy on file.

Horses for Heroes Cowboy Christmas:

In an effort to improve the silent bid procedure for Horses for Heroes fundraiser, a list of suggestions was compiled and will be discussed with Nancy and Rick Iannucci at a potluck luncheon sometime in February (15th or 16th) at Don and JoAnn’s home. List of suggestions is on file with secretary.

Standing Rules:

1. GSM meetings will be held on the 2nd Saturday of the odd numbered months.
2. The ABQ Chapter will pay dues for each member 90 years old or older.
3. Delegates to the National Convention shall be reimbursed travel, hotel, and registration costs if chapter funds are available.
4. The chapter will purchase the Chapter President’s pin for an outgoing chapter President.
5. When donating to a 501(c)3 that entity should provide a copy of the latest Internal Revenue Form 990.
6. A memorial donation of $50 will be sent to AGSM National Office upon the death of a chapter member in recognition and honor of her GSM status.

Note: Financial Assistance Request Procedure is completed and will be included in the Standing Rules.

New Business:

Fallen Heroes Project information was distributed to those who would like Michael Reagan to create a portrait of their fallen hero.

Massing of the Colors will be held in Santa Fe at the Bataan Building at 9:00 AM on June 14, 2014. Our GSM banner will be carried by those attending the event.

Calendar for Upcoming GSM Events:

January 11, 2014 at 11 AM at Jo Ann Zembiec’s home

March 8, 2014 at 9 AM at Kay’s Carlisle Office Bldg. (Jim Spiri, a military combat photographer, and father of a Fallen Hero, will be invited to speak about his audio interview project with Gold Star Families.)

May 10, 2014 at Elisa Bowles, Glorieta

June 14, 2014, Massing of the Colors, Santa Fe

July 12, 2014 meeting location to be determined

September 13, 2014 Mary Cowan, Silver City

November 8, 2014, at Kay’s Carlisle Office Bldg.

The meeting was adjourned at 2:15 PM

Respectfully Submitted

Jo Ann Zembiec

2013

March 9, 2013

The AGSM members met at the conference room of Kay Coleman’s office. The meeting began at 11 AM with Kay Coleman, President, presiding. Becky Christmas read the opening prayer and Pledge of Allegiance. Those attending were Pat Merville, Mary Teeter, Adrene Adams, Brad and Becky Christmas, and Jo Ann Zembiec. Kay shared the March calendar from the website with the members.

Minutes from the previous meeting were not read as Michelle Bowman was unable to attend the meeting.

The Treasurer’s report was read by Kay Coleman. The balance in our account as of this date is $9,272.79. Becky Christmas made a motion to approve the treasurer’s report. Pat Merville seconded the motion and it was passed unanimously.

The 2013 budget was circulated. Kay reported that she has sent our 2013 corrected Per Capita Report to National Office. Our 2013 budget was approved at the January 12, 2013 meeting and is on file with the treasurer.

Old Business

Albuquerque Fisher House Campaign

Jo Ann Zembiec reported that there is no additional news regarding the Albuquerque Fisher House project. Cathy Cabry (our contact at FHF) said that the campaign would begin sometime in April. Becky reported that in the past a GSM was not necessarily on the board, but if anyone had the time to devote to being on the board, they should make their desires known. Becky and Jo Ann were tentatively interested in being on the board. Jo Ann will follow up with another email to Cathy Cabry.

2013 NM Legislative Report (United Veteran’s Council)

Jo Ann reported that there is no new information to distribute at this time. Mary Teeter and Adrene Adams attended the Military Day at the Legislature in Santa Fe in February. Adrene reported that it was well attended and a wonderful tribute to our veterans. The governor was in Washington, DC, so the Lt. Governor, John Sanchez, spoke on her behalf.

2013 Community Service Report

Pat reported that she has forwarded our community report to Nationals. Our totals are below last year’s totals, but several members had not turned in their report in time to add their totals to the report sent to Nationals. This year we had a total of 1,231 hours, $15,713 donated, and 8,542 miles driven.

February Blue Mass

It was reported that none of our membership was able to attend the Blue Mass in appreciation of those serving in the military services, police forces, and firefighters, but according to the newspaper, it was well attended.

New Business

Website Update/Domain Name Subscription Costs

Kay reported that we are still in need of having members send in a picture of their fallen warrior to post on the chapter webpage as well as a short story about them. She needs input on Doug Zembiec and Wayne Simmons, as well as others.

Domain subscription costs were presented by Kay. Pat moved that the subscription for 5 years at $15 per year be renewed and paid for out of chapter funds. Becky seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.

BSM Storage of GMS Items

It was unanimously agreed that Kay would retrieve the boxes of GSM items/memorabilia currently stored with the Blue Star Mothers and store them at Kay’s office.

Honor Walk & Bike Run March 25-30, 2013

A tally was taken as to see how many GSM would be able to attend the Vietnam Veterans Remembrance Honor Walk/Bike Run sponsored by the Upper Fruitland Vietnam Veterans. Kay is to report to Jeanette Yazzie that unfortunately, no one from the membership will be able to attend this year.

National Convention Delegates

The AGSM National Convention will be held at the Embassy Suites in Las Vegas, NV on June 21-23. Kay and Becky will attend. With 15 paid members, we can have 3 more delegates. Jo Ann Zembiec and Pat Merville volunteered to attend. It was decided that a vote would be taken at our May 11, 2013 meeting who the delegates would be.

It was decided that the GSM chapter would pay for each delegate’s transportation (air or vehicle) as well as their double occupancy lodging for 3 nights. Delegates will be reimbursed with receipts. The delegate would then be responsible for registration and meals. The next AGSM Newsletter will have more details and registration forms. Each delegate will be responsible for submitting her own registration form and make her own motel reservation.

Speaker Chris Timm

Chris Timm and his wife Sherry spoke about the NM Veteran’s Memorial Park. Chris is on the Board of Directors for the park. He reported that a new series of History Lectures is being added beginning April 6 at 9:30 AM at the park. These history series lectures will begin with the American Revolution, Buffalo Soldiers, and will include Marine WAC’s, WWII Veterans, Korean Veterans, and other personal stories from local veterans as they volunteer to speak. A lecture by Bill Toledo, a Marine Veteran was attended by over 100 people recently. This event will be advertised in the newspaper.

Chris said that the Run for the Wall (POW/MIA) riders who ride across the USA and arrive in Washington, DC on Memorial Day will pass through Albuquerque on May 17, 2013 to plan a third route across the U.S. that will follow I-40 cross country starting next year. A small reception will be held for them at the NM Veteran’s Memorial Park. If any GSM can attend, please do so to honor those who honor our veterans.

Up Coming Events

Becky discussed the upcoming proposed amendments to the national constitution that will be brought up for vote at the National Convention in Las Vegas in June. Delegates are encouraged to read and discuss the proposed amendments when they are published in the national newsletter and be ready to vote on these important issues.

The next meetings are tentatively scheduled for:

May 11 at Kay’s office conference room

July 13 at either Becky’s or Lisa’s (someplace north) to be decided

September at Mary Cowan’s

November 9 at Jo Ann & Don’s home

The meeting was adjourned at 1:21 PM.

Respectfully Submitted

Jo Ann Zembiec, Recording Secretary

May 18, 2013

The AGSM members met on Saturday, May 18, 2013 at 1:10 PM in the conference room of Kay Colman’s office. Those present were, Kay Coleman, Pat Freeman, Becky Christmas, Louis and Lisa Bowles, and Jo Ann Zembiec. The meeting was opened by Becky Christmas with a prayer, short silence, and pledge of allegiance.

The April 6, 2013 and the March 9, 2013 meeting minutes were read and approved with a motion by Becky and second by Pat.

Kay reported that the treasury has been unchanged since the last meeting with a total balance of $9,252.79 in the bank. There are two outstanding dues that have not been collected, Michelle Bowman and Paula Gonzales. Pat to call Paula and Kay to call Michelle to remind them.

Old Business:

UVC

Fisher House Foundation Jo Ann reported that the Fisher House Foundation for Albuquerque may be three years away. Alan Martinez, Director State Benefits Division of the Dept. of Veteran’s Affairs said he would look into finding out why this project has not gotten off the ground yet.

Flag Day Flag Day is June 14 and will be held at the VA Memorial Park with a “burning of retired flags” ceremony. Check website for time, tentative 10 AM start.

First Saturdays A personal history series is being held on first Saturdays at the VA Park beginning at 9:30 AM. It has been well attended and well received by the public. Information on these series can be found on their website and newspaper. Website is nmvetsmemorial.org, phone 505.256.2042.

BSM Storage of GSM Items Becky brought all the GSM boxes that had been stored at the BSM’s facility to Kay’s office to be stored at her office. At a later time Becky and Kay will peruse the boxes.

Run For the Wall Although no GSM were able to attend the Run for the Wall it was well received and attended by BSM and the public per the Albuquerque Journal.

National Convention Bylaws After considerable discussion it was agreed that Page 10, Article 11, Section 3 of this proposed amendment does not need to be in the constitution. Becky urged anyone wanting to voice an opinion from the floor at the appropriate time, do so. The members felt that our delegates should vote no on this amendment. (You should be a member of the chapter you want to run in, not necessarily your legal residence.)

New Business:

Horses for Heroes Dog tags to be hung in the new bunk house at Broken Arrow Ranch to honor our fallen in NM will be sent to Rick Iannuci by Kay. It was agreed by the membership that the five lines on the tags will read as follows: Line 1, first name and initial of fallen; Line 2, last name; Line 3 Rank and Branch; Line 4 death date; Line 5 place of death. For those fallen in the US, War on Terror will be inscribed on the 5th line.

Goodie Bags for the VA Toiletry/goodie bags will be made to be given to the VA for those patients who arrive and need additional supplies. Becky volunteered to chair this project. A motion to give $400 for this project was made by Becky and seconded by Lisa. Motion approved. Bags will be assembled on July 13 at Becky’s home after our meeting and brought to Albuquerque for distribution.

Tuskegee Airmen Monument It was decided that before a donation is to be made for this monument that Kay would check and see how the plans are coming along and email all members as to the status of the project. The monument is to be built at the VA Memorial Park to honor Tuskegee Airmen.

Paws & Stripes Fundraiser It was decided that a request for a IRS 990 be made for all organizations we donate to. The request will be made along with the donation check. Lisa made a motion to donate $250, seconded by Becky to donate to Paws & Stripes Fundraiser, June 29.

White Sands SOS Program Becky informed the members that a new SOS Program (Survivors Outreach Services) is now open at White Sands Missile Range. Applications for access cards and vehicle decals were given to the members by Becky. Completed applications can be faxed to Lew Lewis at Ft. Bliss, TX. The access cards will allow GSM to get on any base in the US and shop one day a month at the commissary and BX.

Jennifer Marino Ride Jennifer Marino, USMC, will be riding across America and stopping to meet with and interview families of our fallen en-route. She is planning to be in NM and may be able to meet with the Christmases. She is planning on writing a book about her travels and the families she interviews. Becky to keep us updated as to Ms. Marino’s schedule and route.

Memorial Day Events Memorial Day will be celebrated at the VA Memorial Park on Monday, May 27, 2013. Music begins at 9 AM, ceremony at 10 AM. GSM and GSW will be recognized with corsages given by the United Veteran’s Council. Kay encouraged us to make sure to stop by the BSM kiosk as they have many new items for sale.

Wreaths Across America It was decided that our shipment of Wreaths Across America be sent directly to Lisa and Louis Bowles. Distribution of wreaths made in previous years has been disorganized and unacceptable. In an effort to get the wreaths we ordered to the proper gravesites, we will distribute them ourselves.

Kay Coleman so kindly gave each of the attending mothers a beautiful t-shirt which she got from a website honoring one of our fallen in TN, Sgt. Paul Dumont, Jr. Proceeds from these shirts goes to build a playground in his memory.

Next meeting will be at Becky and Brad Christmas’s home on July 13, 2013. Everyone attending will meet at Ft. Union at 10:30 AM before the meeting for a tour of the fort.

Meeting adjourned at 4 PM.

Respectfully submitted:

Jo Ann Zembiec, Recording Secretary

2012

October 13, 2012

Present - Pat Merville, Hiltrude Ridenour, Lisa and Louis Bowles, JoAnn and Don Zembiec, Mary Koehler

Minutes of Prior Meeting were accepted as read, Motion by JoAnn and Second by Hiltrude

Treasurer Report - Accepted as read with a balance of $8,260.52

Old Business -

1. 9/15/12 Memorial Service for SSGT Jonathan Schmidt was attended by Pat, JoAnn, Hiltrude, Bob and Michele Bowman

2. JoAnn reported that she was unable to attend the United Veterans Council meeting and did not receive minutes.

3. The Christmas family donated school supplies on behalf of the AGSM to the Springer schools and received a nice Thank You note. The Christmas family also won an award for decorating their sons car for the labor day parade.

4. The Gold Star Mother Sunday Luncheon sponsored by the Rio Grande Blue Star Mothers was a success with many Gold Star Mothers attending, Thank You cards can be sent individually and Lisa will send one from the group as well.

New Business

1. VFW Ladies Auxiliary tea was 9-23-12. Gifts from the Ladies Auxiliary were presented at today’s AGSM meeting to those who could not attend the tea.

2. Discussion of Horses for Heroes Auction Project. A lengthy discussion of the event and plans for the auction. We need volunteers to work the auction at the event. $50 discounted fee to volunteers. The dinner will be held on Nov 30, 2012 at the La Fonda Hotel, Santa Fe, cocktails, dinner and dancing along with the silent Auction. All profits go to the charity.

3. Pat reminded us that the 2012 community Service Report is due to Pat the beginning of Jan, 2013 and our membership renewal is due Dec, 2012. Mail 2013 dues payment to Kay Coleman or bring to Wreaths Across America or to the Horses for Heroes November 30 event.

4. Regular meeting schedule was discussed with plan to meet every other month on the 2nd Sat of the month starting Jan 12,2013. JoAnn Zembiec has offered her home for the meetings with a meeting time of 11:00 am for potluck lunch.

5. The City of ABQ will give to the NM Veterans Memorial Park $5.00 for every 1 hour of volunteer service at the NMVMP up to $15,000 total for the fiscal year. Anyone interested in volunteering should call Caroline Donnell at 299-7123/980-4983.

August 12, 2012

The Albuquerque Chapter of the AGSM met at the home of Kay Coleman. President Pat Melville opened the meeting at 1:10 PM. Those present were Pat Merville, Kay Coleman, Elisa and Louis Bowles, and Jo Ann Zembiec. Col. Roger Michelson, MOAA was also present for a short time to present the AGSM with a donation check for $1,000.

In the absence of Secretary, Michelle Bowman, the previous minutes were accepted as circulated.

Treasurer, Kay Coleman reported that our treasury has $7,444.36, not including the $1,000 check from MOAA. A copy of the profit and loss statement for January 1 through August 12, 2012 was passed out to all present.

Old Business

AGSM Convention:

Report on the National Convention by Becky Christmas was read by Pat Merville. There were 85 delegates to this year’s convention. A list of the newly elected officers was read. The 2013 Convention will be held in Las Vegas next year, date not yet determined, but possibly the end of June.

Kay reported on some of the areas of concern and organization at this year’s convention.

United Veteran’s Council:

Jo Ann Zembiec reported on the August 9th meeting of the UVC. Veteran’s Day at the Fair this year is Thursday, September 20. VA groups will be able to have merchandise with suggested “donation” for the public. Also VA groups will be able to recruit and collect dues at this time. There will be no parking fees for anyone at the Fair this year. Veterans with a proper ID will be able to get in free again this year. Josetta is planning a meeting to discuss VA Day at the Fair on August 24, time and place to be determined.

Alan Martinez, NM Deputy Secretary of Veteran’s Affairs stated that there is a bill that will allow the word “Veteran” to be placed on a veteran’s NM driver’s license. The form to apply for this will be coming soon through the Dept. of Veteran’s Affairs. You will not need your DD214 at the DMV when you apply to re-new your license as veterans will be in a national data base.

Mr. Martinez also said that veteran’s with disabled veteran’s license plates cannot park in handicapped spaces unless they have a handicap plaque or HP license plate. A letter to all disabled veterans will be going out on November 1 to this effect.

Roger Knight reported that the VA Memorial Park would like some volunteers to serve a three hour shift once a month. The City of Albuquerque will give the VA Memorial Park up to $15,000 for volunteer hours. The park will be credited with $5 per hour for each volunteer. There are two people per shift and you can work inside or outside. Call Roger at 505.321.1730 if you are interested in volunteering.

Sunday, November 11, is VA Day at the Memorial Park.

Governor Susana Martinez gave a press release for a program to be started in early 2013 that will be a free service to all veterans needing mental health counseling. This will be run by volunteers in the mental health field. Gold Star families will be able to use this counseling.

Horses for Heroes Rick Iannuci and Nancy Desantis would like our chapter to participate in their Cowboy Christmas this year as volunteers with the silent auction and to help solicit items for the silent auction. The event will be held on Friday, November 30 at the La Fonda in Santa Fe. Tickets will be $100. They would like to be able to print AGSM as a co-sponsor on the invitations. It was decided that the word “endorsed by the Albuquerque Chapter of the AGSM” be used instead of “co-sponsored.”

Jo Ann volunteered to provide a list of names and addresses of last year’s El Pinto fund raiser to use to help solicit auction items. Horses for Heroes will pick up all donated items, log them in and make the signs for the items. Jo Ann will try to solicit additional workers from Navy Federal Credit Union and Pat Merville will ask PNM to see it they have volunteers to help with running the silent auction. Jo Ann will ask Col. Michelson of MOAA if they could donate a ski package for the auction. Anyone wishing to help is greatly appreciated.

Sonja Brown, the Veteran’s Hospital Chief of Volunteers is asking that we help raise money for the new $6 million Fisher House which is scheduled to be built in ABQ on the VA grounds. It will be required that the community raise $3 million of this money. Jo Ann volunteered to set up an online donation site for Fisher House donations as was done for the Fisher House at Dover, DL. Ms. Brown wants copies of checks be given to her so she can keep track of the community donations.

Jo Ann will attend the August 13 City of Albuquerque 911 Ceremonies planning meeting at the Albuquerque Fire Academy and report back.

Jo Ann will re-contact Hello Deli fundraiser about the golf fundraiser.

Up Coming Events:

September 11 911 Commemoration by City of ABQ

September 20 State Fair Military/Veteran’s Day

September 20 MIA/POW Day

September 30 GSM Luncheon at ABQ Hyatt

November 30 Horses for Heroes Cowboy Christmas, La Fonda, Santa Fe

Next Meeting will be held on October 13 (Saturday) at Don and Jo Ann’s home 1444 Honeysuckle Dr. NE.

Meeting adjourned at 3:20 PM

Respectfully Submitted

Jo Ann Zembiec

April 28, 2012

The meeting was held April 28, 2012 in the home of Brad and Becky Christmas, at 10 AM. A potluck lunch followed the meeting. Those in attendance were: Pat Merville, Brad and Becky Christmas, LaNeel Pierce, Kay Coleman and Tip and Mary Cowan. The minutes from the previous meeting were approved as corrected.

The Treasurer gave the Financial Report with the bank balance being $9975.11.

Old Business

The 2012 Budget was presented by the Finance Committee. It is attached. The Budget was approved.

It was decided to have no fundraising at this time, as we have funds for the year.

Changes were made to the Per Capita report. The correct offices will be sent in and Sandy Spohn will be dropped from membership due to no payment of dues for two years. Mary Koehler’s dues need to be collected. Cindy Long’s email address has changed to [email protected]

It was suggested that the plaque for the Bunkhouse of Horses For Heroes should include the Branch, Name, Rank, Date of Death, and the names should be in chronological order from DOD.

Hiltrud and JoAnn attended the ceremony to rename a street at Kirtland Air Force Base for a Fallen Hero. It was named Griffin Ave.

New Business

Kay Coleman and Michelle Bowman were elected delegates to the National Convention in June. Becky Christmas will also be attending as the National Parliamentarian. Becky moved that the Chapter pay for the airplane tickets and three nights (one room) of the Convention Hotel. Mary seconded the motion and it passed.

Big Brothers Big Sisters proposed mentorship of children and siblings of the Fallen was discussed. It was suggested that Veteran’s be recruited. Chris Alexander is working on this. It would be a one year commitment with a child of 5-18 years old. We will continue to look into this program.

There has been an offer of quilts to our members from Northern NM Quilt Guild. Several members have not received quilts from this group and it was decided that they should receive the quilts. Kay, Mary Cowan and Becky will be given quilts and Pat will contact Linda Robinson from Santa Fe about this.

JoAnn attended the United Veteran’s Council meeting. They have coins to sell-$5 each.

We were reminded by Pat that AGSM has coins, also. Mary moved that the Chapter buy 10 coins at $8 each. It was seconded and passed. We will use these coins to give to people that help us in our efforts. Kay will purchase them at the National Convention.

We will find out if the FBI will be having their annual golf tournament.

The WalMart at Carlisle and Menaul is wanting to put up a Wall of Heroes. Kay had volunteered through BSM to work on this but has not been contacted. There is a Display at the Bernalillo WalMart and Brad told us that he saw a Wounded Warrior parking space at a Wal Mart in Minnesota. The Bob’s Super Market in Lovington has a Wall of Heroes. Becky will take a picture and show the Chapter. We will see about getting the wall done with at least our Fallen Heroes.

This evening there will be a ceremony at the UNM Chapel, with a Flag ceremony and a War Memorial presentation. Pat and Kay are going.

Pat announced our Community Service report with the following figures: 3,089 hours, 16,802 miles, and $15,125.

Cards from Kathy Cross and U-Haul were passed out for the Spring. These go to Veterans and those serving. Memorial Day cards will arrive soon.

Kay will mail our donation check of $400 to Jemez Mountain Quilters and Mary will take the check to the Ft. Bayard Hospital and monument.

Mary Cowan reported that there were 9 Cowans participating in the Bataan Memorial Run. They did the 15.2 Honorary March. Four of their participants were grandchildren.

Correspondence

A thank you note was read from Jemez Mountain Quilters. Carol Harris sent a note with her dues.

The next meeting will be held July 14, at 11 AM, at Kay Coleman’s home. The address is 10533 Aspen Ave., NE, ABQ, NM 87112. It will be a potluck.

Respectfully submitted,

Becky Christmas, Acting Secretary

February 25, 2012

The February 25, 2012 AGSM meeting was held in the home of AGSM family Jo Ann and Don Zembiec. The meeting was opened in due form by the president, Pat Merville. Those in attendance were: Michelle and Bob Bowman, Becky Christmas, Jo Ann Zembiec, Adrienne Adams, Mary Teater and Elena Hunt.

Minutes of the previous meeting were approved as read. With additions

Old Business

Kay, treasurer, not present to report so will report next meeting

Delegates to this year’s AGSM convention was discussed-1 for each 5 members-Becky, Kay, Michelle and JoAnn are all interested.

A Thank You card from Horses for Heros was passed around.

Becky gave us further clarifications concerning our proposed changes to the constitution. The wording was discussed. Becky will submit to national board and these will be voted on at the June convention.

Please submit fundraiser ideas to Kay or Michelle

New Business

Blue Star Mothers packing dates were discussed.

Rich and Cindy Long sent a flyer from their fundraiser in honor of Captain Tamara Long KIA 3/23/03

Flyer for the 6th annual Sgt Clifton J. Yazzie Memorial Bike Run Saturday 4/7/12

Pictures from the El Pinto dinner were passed around.

There will be an Angel Fire Vietnam Veterans Memorial fundraiser at Sandia Resort Hotel March 10th @ 6pm. Tickets are $75

Jo Ann attended the memorial for Phillip Moreno along with many BSM.

A committee of 2, Jo Ann and Becky, was formed to work with Rick for the plaque of names of Fallen Heroes at the Horses for Heroes Ranch bunkhouse.

January 7, 2012

The January 7, 2012, Albuquerque Gold Star Mother’s meeting was held in the home of Gold Star Family, Jo Ann and Don Zembiec. The meeting was opened in due form by the President, Pat Merville. Those in attendance were: Michelle and Bob Bowman, Becky and Brad Christmas, Lisa and Louis Bowles, Don and Jo Ann Zembiec, Kay Coleman, and Pat Merville.

Minutes of the previous meeting were approved as read. The Treasurer’s report was passed out and is attached. The report included a financial report for the entire year and also included a Profit and Loss Statement. The end of the year balance is $9,948.36.

Old Business

Dues are now due. Carmen’s dues will be paid by the Chapter until she is 90.

Community Service reports were collected from those present who had not sent them in.

Pat told the membership that we would need to send donations above $500 to the National office and then they will return the funds to us. Kay will contact the National Treasurer to see how long that process usually takes.

New Business

Election of Officers

The following slate of officers was elected by acclamation:

President-Pat Merville                                                       Americanism Chairman-Becky Christmas

Vice President-Jo Ann Zembiec                                        Chaplain-Jo Ann Zembiec

Recording Secretary-Michelle Bowman                            Historian-Becky Christmas

Corresponding Secretary-Lisa Bowles

Treasurer-Kay Coleman

Parliamentarian-Becky Christmas

The proposed budget was passed out by the Treasurer. There was discussion of some of the projects we supported last year and it was decided that we would look at individual expenses through the year that we want to support. We decided that we would not contribute to Ride for Semper Fi, as they will not be coming through Albuquerque. We also deleted Ft. Bayard Historical Society and Paws and Stripes as groups that we would not contribute to. Those funds will probably go to another project that we choose. Thank you to the Budget Committee of Kay and Jo Ann. We will send the $400, previously voted on, to the Bear Claw Quilters now and Jo Ann announced that people are still donating to Fisher House through New Mexico. To date we have raised $30,199.00.

A review of last year’s projects and suggestions for improvement was solicited. There was a suggestion to change the location of the fundraiser from the El Pinto. It was also suggested to hold the event earlier in the year, perhaps August. Pat appointed Kay and Michelle to a committee to present a proposal for this year’s fundraiser. Among the ideas was the idea to use a Veteran’s place of business. The Committee will present their ideas at the next meeting. Kay and Michelle did a wonderful job on the “Horses For Heroes” fundraiser in November. The Chapter is very grateful for their hard work. Thank you, everyone for your donations.

Jo Ann and Don told the membership of a project for Wounded Veterans, called “Healing Waters”. This project is totally free to the Wounded and consists of fishing trips in New Mexico. The contact can be made through the Veteran’s Administration. Charles Mosher is the contact person. His address and phone number is: 6401 Elk Horn Dr., Albuquerque, NM 87111, 505-293-9576. There was great interest in this project.

Don also announced that his friend, Ron Thompson, had sent in $1100 for “Horses For Heroes”.

Pat distributed six Blue to Gold framed pieces. These were made and given to us from Thom Towell. Becky will take one to Colleen Hildebrandt and one to LaNeel Pierce. Pat also gave two POW/MIA tabletop flags and stands away-one to Becky and one to Lisa.

Becky presented several amendments to be voted on by the Chapter and Department and then sent on to the National office. These will then be presented at the National Convention. The five proposed amendments are attached to the minutes. Each amendment was passed unanimously and Becky will send them in to the National office.

Military Day at the Legislature will be February 6, 2012.

Blue to Gold Ceremonies for the family of Spc. Pernell Herrera are pending and Pat will let us know when they will take place.

All members were asked to send ideas for the fundraiser to Michelle and Kay.

The next meeting will be at 10 AM, February 25, 2012, at the home of the Zembiecs.

The meeting was adjourned by the President, following the closing prayer.

Respectfully submitted,

Becky Christmas, Secretary