Catholic Daughters of the Americas
49th Biennial Texas State Convention
Minutes
April 9 – 12, 2015
Renaissance Austin Hotel
Austin, Texas
Catholic Daughters of the Americas
Texas State Board
2013-2015
State Chaplain
Reverend Donald Ruppert
East Bernard, Texas
Officers
State Regent . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Peggy Rosales
First Vice State Regent . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Eve Trevino
Second Vice State Regent . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Rosie Stockwell
State Secretary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Melodie Brunt
State Treasurer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Rebecca Brown
State Parliamentarian . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ellie Plunkett
National Regent . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Shirley Seyfried
First Vice National Regent . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Olga Samaniego
National Director . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Carolyn Bachmann
Immediate Past State Regent . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Carolyn Malik
“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”
Philippians 4:13
Catholic Daughters of the Americas
Minutes of the 2015 State Convention
Attachments to the Minutes
State Regent’s Report
State Treasurer’s Report
Filed with the Original Minutes
Reports of the State Chairmen
Reports of the Credentials Committee
Report of the Nominating Committee
Circle of Love Winners
Bylaws & Resolutions
Convention Standing Rules
2015 Minutes Approving Committee
Maria Socorro Vicinaiz, DD#31, Chairman, Los Fresnos, Texas
Joyce Pierce, DD#39, Irving, Texas
Ernestina Saenz, DD#43, San Diego, Texas
Catholic Daughters of the Americas
Texas State Court
th
49 Biennial State Convention
Austin, Texas
April 9-12, 2015
MINUTES
The 49th Biennial State Convention of the Catholic Daughters of the Americas, Texas State
Court, was held April 9-12, 2015, at the Renaissance Austin Hotel in Austin, Texas.
PRE-CONVENTION ACTIVITES
Registration Committee and Credential Committee
The Registration and Credential Committees, along with the Peggy Rosales, State Regent, Eve
Trevino, First Vice State Regent, and Rosie Stockwell, Second Vice State Regent, met on
Wednesday, April 8, 2015, at 4:00 p.m. in the Bosque Room at the Renaissance Austin Hotel for
instructions on committee duties. Serving as advisor for the Registration and Credential
Committees was State Regent, Peggy Rosales, Austin, Texas; also serving as advisor to the
Credential Committee was Rosie Stockwell, Second Vice State Regent.
Committee Meetings
Committee meetings were held Thursday, April 9, 2015, at 2:30 p.m. to review the duties and
responsibilities with the following officers serving as advisors:
Rules and Timekeepers: Melodie Brunt, State Secretary; Room Nueces;
Courtesy and Pages: Rebecca Brown, State Treasurer; Room San Saba
Credentials and Minutes Approval: Rosie Stockwell, Second Vice State Regent; Room Bosque;
Monitors and Resolutions/Bylaws: Eve Trevino, First Vice State Regent; Room San Antonio
Elections: Carolyn Bachmann, National Director; Room Canadian
Registration
Registration of delegates, alternates and guests was held on Thursday, April 9, 2015, from 8:30
a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and from 8:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. in the Atrium. On Friday, April 10, 2015,
registration continued from 6:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. in the Atrium. On Saturday, April 11, 2015,
registration continued in the Atrium from 7:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
State Board Luncheon
The State Board Luncheon, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me,” was held
on Thursday, April 9, 2015, in the Glass Oaks Ballroom of the Renaissance Austin Hotel at 12:00
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p.m. CDA State Officers, Past State Regents, District Deputies and State Chairmen were in
attendance. Special guests included Carolyn Bachmann, National Director, Scotland, Texas;
Libby Ramirez, Past National Regent, Victoria, Texas; Duchess Collins, Past National Director,
Sugar Land, Texas; Carolyn Malik, Immediate Past State Regent, Shiner, Texas; Reverend Donald
Ruppert, State Chaplain, East Bernard, Texas; and Monsignor John Peters, State JCDA Chaplain,
Hallettsville, Texas.
Peggy Rosales, State Regent, presided over the luncheon. Peggy Rosales expressed her
appreciation and gratitude to all in attendance for their continued support and cooperation
during her term. She presented the State Chaplain, State Officers, State Chairmen, District
Deputies and special guests with gifts in recognition of their services to the Texas State CDA.
The State Officers presented Peggy Rosales with a James Avery Gold and Silver La Primavera
Cross with silver chain; James Avery “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me”
bracelet; James Avery silver beaded cuff bracelet; necklace with a Diamond Pendant; lounging
jumper; Texas cooler bag; several bottles of wine; snacks; and Ralph Lauren perfume gift box
set with tote.
Opening Mass
The Opening Mass was celebrated on Thursday, April 9, 2015, in the Grand Ballroom at the
Renaissance Austin Hotel, Austin, Texas. The processional began at 6:30 p.m. The Mass began
at 7:00 p.m. with the Most Reverend Joe S. Vásquez, Bishop of Austin as the main celebrant and
homilist. Concelebrants for the Mass were Most Reverend Daniel E. Garcia, Auxiliary Bishop of
Austin; Reverend Donald Ruppert, State Chaplain, East Bernard; Reverend John Peters, JCDA
State Chaplain, Hallettsville; and nine priests, local court chaplains. Deacon Gary Perkins,
Austin, and Deacon Dennis Egan, Round Rock, also assisted during the Liturgy.
The Fourth Degree Assembly of the Knights of Columbus, Bishop Louis J. Reicher #1099, Austin,
served as honor guard. Court Our Lady Queen of Apostles #2391, Austin, District #7, provided
the flag and banner bearers.
Convention Activities
Seating and Briefing of Delegates
Beginning at 7:30 a.m. on Friday, April 10, 2015, in the Grand Ballroom the delegates were
seated. A briefing of delegates was conducted by Ellie Plunkett, State Parliamentarian, Hudson
Oaks.
Call to Order
Peggy Rosales, State Regent, called the 49th Biennial Texas State Convention of the Texas State
Court to order at 7:48 a.m. on Friday, April 10, 2015.
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Opening Prayer
State Chaplain, Most Reverend Donald Ruppert, East Bernard, led the opening prayer and
blessed the Convention Shrine.
Opening Ceremony
The presentation of the United States Flag and Texas Flag along with the Unity and Charity and
State Court Banners were presented by Court Our Lady Queen of Apostles #2391, Austin,
District 7. Ellie Plunkett, State Parliamentarian, led the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the
United States of America followed by the recitation of the pledge of the Texas State flag by the
assembly. The National Anthem and CDA Opening Ode were lead and sung by Carolyn
Rapsilver, State Spiritual Enhancement Chairman, Sealy, and accompanied by Cynthia Grigar,
District Deputy #28, Sealy.
Introductions
Peggy Rosales, State Regent, introduced those seated on the dais, followed by the introduction
of other special guests, visiting clergy, court chaplains and the past State Regents.
Welcome
Carolyn Bachmann, National Director, Scotland, brought greetings from the National Board.
Christine Moore, Convention Chairman, Columbus, welcomed the Texas Catholic Daughters to
Austin and the convention.
Peggy Rosales, State Regent, introduced the State Chairmen and the District Deputies in
attendance.
BUSINESS MEETING
Appointment of the Minutes Approving Committee for the 2015 Convention
Serving as the Chairman of the 2015 Convention Minutes Approving Committee is Socorro
Vicinaiz, District Deputy #31, Los Fresnos; members serving will be Tina Saenz, District Deputy
#43, San Diego, and Joyce Pierce, District Deputy #39, Irving.
Credential Committee Report
Serving as the Chairman of the Credentials Committee was Gennie Loggins, State Financial
Review Committee, Highlands; members serving on the committee were Janis Wright, State
Financial Review Chairman and District Deputy #38, Houston; Carol Snowbarger, State Financial
Review Committee, Sugar Land; Mary Cortinas, District Deputy #17, Alvin; Sara Valdez, District
Deputy #21, Mission; Cynthia Grigar, District Deputy #28, Sealy; Pat Rega, District Deputy #45,
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Sugar Land; Chris Morin, District deputy #48, Corpus Christi; Mary Jane Albert, District Deputy
#54, Houston; Fran Stegge, District Deputy #62, San Antonio.
Gennie Loggins presented the following report as of 8:00 a.m. on Friday, April 10, 2015.
Voting Strength
Number Allotted
Potential
Elected & Submitted
1
5
1
1
5
1
Actual
National Officer
State Officers
Immediate Past State
Regent
Past State Regents
Delegates
1
5
1
7
873
5
589
5
468
Total Voting Strength:
887
601
480
Melodie Brunt, State Secretary, Texarkana, moved that the credential committee report be
adopted by the direction of the committee.
The motion was adopted by a show of voting cards.
A copy of the report is attached to the original minutes.
A quorum for this convention was a majority of the voting members of the state Court who had
registered. The Chair declared that a quorum was present.
Standing Rules Committee Report
Iris Hinojosa, State Education Chairman, Benavides; and Virginia Olsovsky, District Deputy #30
served on the Standing Rules Committee.
Melodie Brunt, State Secretary, moved that the 2015 Convention Standing Rule #6 be
changed to include “and the Alternate will be issued a delegate’s badge” at the end of the
second sentence. To read as follows: The delegate must report to the chairman of the
Credentials Committee and turn in her badge which will be given to the alternate and the
alternate will be issued a Delegate’s badge.
The motion was adopted by show of voting cards.
Rosie Stockwell, Second Vice State Regent, Edinburg, moved that the Convention Standing
Rules be adopted as amended.
The motion was adopted by show of voting cards.
A copy of the Standing Rules is attached to the original minutes.
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Appointment of Timekeepers
Peggy Rosales, State Regent, appointed the following to serve as Convention Timekeepers:
Missy Price, District Deputy #9, Crosby, Chairman
Mary Cullen, District Deputy #5, Richardson
Jane Bonnin Jeanis, District Deputy #8, Orange
Theresa Wagner, District Deputy #11, La Grange
Dorothy Zabransky, District Deputy #12, Yoakum
Dorothy Brock, District Deputy #27, Whitney
Joyce Ellis, District Deputy #52, Dallas
Susie Saenz, District Deputy #57, Falfurrias
Mellie Smithwick, Regent, Court Daughters of St. Elizabeth of Hungary #2584, Alice
Esther Waters, Regent, Court Queen of the Rosary #2368, McAllen
Timekeepers for the morning of Friday, April 10, 2015, were Missy Price, District Deputy #9,
Crosby, and Mary Cullen, District Deputy #5, Richardson.
Appointment of Pages
Peggy Rosales, State Regent, appointed the following to serve as Convention Pages:
Merlene Peters, District Deputy #42 & 59, New Braunfels, Chairman
Linda Aguirre, District Deputy #1, El Paso
Shirley Kaminski, District Deputy #10, Needville
Lydia Martinez, District Deputy #13, Floresville
Anna Chapman, District Deputy #15, Del Rio
Margaret Canizares, District Deputy #26, Argle
Benji Pardee, District Deputy #46, Kerens
Barbara Lockwood, District Deputy #55, Benbrook
Janie Villarreal, District Deputy #58, San Antonio
Cindy Doxey, Regent, Most Precious Blood #2380, Corpus Christi
Pages for the morning session of Friday, April 10, 2015, were Merlene Peters, District Deputy
#42 & 59, New Braunfels; and Linda Aguirre, District Deputy #1, El Paso.
Report of the 2013 Convention Minutes Approving Committee
Members of the 2013 Convention Minutes Approving Committee were Chairman, Christine
Moore, District Deputy #37, Columbus; Elva Pena, State Education Chairman, Corpus Christi;
and Iris Hinojosa, District Deputy #43, Benavides.
By order of the minutes approving committee, the minutes of the 2013 State Convention
were approved.
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Keynote Speaker
Eve Trevino, First Vice State Regent, introduced the keynote speaker, Reverend James Sichko,
Lexington, Kentucky. Father Jim said, “If we are to fill the CDA convention ballrooms with
enthusiastic women who live the theme of this convention and expand CDA, we must follow
three steps. Be Kind, Honor the absent, and Always give others the benefit of the doubt.” He
gave us several personal examples that had everyone laughing yet gave us food for thought.
“Are you Jesus? Go and live the message, I CAN do all things through Christ who strengthens
me. You are who He called. God always provides; not when we want it, but when we need it. Be
the Church, Be Christ, Be Faith, and Be the invitation.”
Father Jim Sichko pledged $1,000.00 from his book profits for JCDA.
The meeting was recessed at 9:30 a.m. and reconvened at 10:06 a.m.
Adoption of the Printed Program
Mary Rutherford, Program Chairman, Round Rock, made the following corrections to the
printed program:
Page 19 – Replace Olivia Morales with Mary Rose Barta for Monitors
Page 19 – Add “Regent” to Esther Waters’ information for Timekeepers.
Page 19 – Pages; Merlene Peters, Chairman, change DD# 43 to DD#42/59
Page 25 – Move “Introduction of New Courts” from 1:15 p.m. to after Keynote Address
Page 25 – Insert “Introduction to Century Club” at 1:15 p.m. - Peggy Rosales
Page 26 – Add “Respect Life” under “Continuation – Announcement of Awards”
Mary Rutherford, Program Chairman, moved that we adopt the program as corrected subject
to necessary changes.
The motion was adopted by show of voting cards.
The meeting was recessed for Memorial Mass and lunch at 10:20 a.m.
Memorial Mass
A Memorial Mass for CDA Deceased Members for 2013-2015 was held in the Grand Ballroom at
10:30 a.m. on Friday, April 10, 2015. Among those honored were Past State Regents’ Margaret
Cutbirth, Crosby; Eleanor Treanor, Houston; Dolly Pena, Laredo; Cecina Koeijmans, Dallas; and
State National Projects Chairman, Carolyn Richbourg, Tyler. Reverend Donald Ruppert, State
Chaplain, served as the main celebrant and was joined by several local court chaplains.
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Clergy and Men’s Luncheon
The Clergy and Men’s Luncheon was held in the Sabine Room of the Renaissance Austin Hotel.
Reverend Donald Ruppert, State Chaplain, served as Master of Ceremonies. Peggy Rosales,
State Regent, Eve Trevino, First Vice State Regent, and Carolyn Bachmann, National Director,
also attended the luncheon.
Past Regent’s Club of Texas Luncheon
The Past Regents’ Club of Texas Luncheon was held in the Glass Oaks Ballroom of the
Renaissance Austin Hotel. President Patricia Carr presided over the activities. New officers
were elected for the 2015-2017 term; also bylaw changes were adopted. They reported
donations of $8,250.00 for Past Regents’ Club Projects were granted.
The business meeting reconvened at 1:38 p.m.
Timekeepers and Pages
Timekeepers for the afternoon of Friday, April 10, 2015, were Jane Bonnin Jeanis, District
Deputy #8 and Dorothy Zabransky, District Deputy #12. Pages for the afternoon of Friday, April
10, 2015, were Shirley Kaminski, District Deputy #10 and Lydia Martinez, District Deputy #13.
2015 Nominating Committee Report
Terri Contreras, Chairman, McAllen; Audrey Morton, Austin; Sharon Henry, Sugar Land; Darice
Miksch, Columbus; Dottie Mensik, Lake Jackson met at 2 p.m. on February 21, 2015, at the
Vineyard, in San Antonio. Terri Contreras presented the following slate of officers:
State Regent
Eve Trevino
1st Vice State Regent Rosie Stockwell
2nd Vice State Regent Melodie Brunt
State Secretary
Rebecca Brown
State Treasurer
Carolyn Rapsilver
Corpus Christi, Court Most Precious Blood #2380
Edinburg, Court Our Lady of Mt. Carmel #1993
Texarkana, Court Marie #344
Angleton, Court Immaculate Mary #2134
Sealy, Court St Elizabeth #1616
A copy of the report is attached to the original minutes.
Nominations from the Floor
The Chair called for nominations from the floor. There were no nominations from the floor for
the offices of State Regent, First Vice State Regent, Second Vice State Regent, or State
Secretary.
Eve Trevino was nominated for the office of State Regent. The nominations for State Regent
were closed and Eve Trevino was elected to the office of State Regent.
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Rosie Stockwell was nominated for the office of First Vice State Regent. The nominations for
First Vice State Regent were closed and Rosie Stockwell was elected to the office of First Vice
State Regent.
Melodie Brunt was nominated for the office of Second Vice State Regent. The nominations for
Second Vice State Regent were closed and Melodie Brunt was elected to the office of Second
Vice State Regent.
Rebecca Brown was nominated for the office of State Secretary. The nominations for State
Secretary were closed and Rebecca Brown was elected to the office of State Secretary.
Carolyn Rapsilver was nominated for the office of State Treasurer.
Nominations from the floor for State Treasurer were as follows:
Elma Escobar, Court San Roberto Bellarmine #2275, El Campo, nominated Terri Beltran, and
Virginia Eckert, Court of the Cross #2374, Humble, nominated Benji Pardee.
Hearing no further nominations, the Chair declared the nominations closed.
Consent to serve and other necessary papers were received by the Chair and were in order. As
per the Bylaws, the local court regent read a one minute statement of qualifications of the
candidates.
2017 Nominating Committee
A roll call of courts’ present, per Bylaws, was conducted. Courts wishing to nominate a
candidate for the 2017 Nominating Committee were asked to send a delegate to the
microphone.
Nominating Courts
2220
2215
1884
2505
2570
1988
2448
2267
2665
1440
1588
Candidate
Linsay Tomlinson
Anna Cedillo
Diana Kammer
Dee Ann Jimenez
Virginia Olsovsky
Norma Guerra Valdez
Sandra Blanchard
Georgia Mikosh
Joann Bleier
Donna Shula
Christine Moore
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City
Austin
Donna
Conroe
Seguin
Flatonia
Brownsville
Brownsville
Port Lavaca
Victoria
Fayetteville
Columbus
2478
2662
2065
2374
2422
2368
0234
2680
2661
Mary Louise Ludt
Judy Arkangel
Darlene Newman
Donna Rea
Diana Garcia
Esther E. Waters
Antonia Ledesma
Patricia Gutierrez
Adelina Ramirez
Dallas
San Antonio
Spring
Humble
Odem
McAllen
Houston
Houston
San Antonio
Hearing no further nominations, the Chair declared nominations closed.
Introduction of New Courts
Peggy Rosales, State Regent, introduced the new courts that were instituted from April 1, 2013
to March 31, 2015:
1. Daughters of the Holy Family #2665, April 28, 2013, Regent Joann Bleier, Victoria;
2. St. Theresa Benedicta of the Cross #2668, November 17, 2013, Regent Julie Garrison,
Denton;
3. St. Theresa of the Child Jesus Campus Court #2671, December 15, 2013, Regent Luisa
Ruiz, El Paso;
4. Our Lady of Schoenstatt #2672, January 19, 2014, Regent Velda Correa, Weslaco;
5. Mary Queen of Angels #2673, February 16, 2014, Regent Teresa De Los Santos,
Elmendorf;
6. St. Angela of the Cross #2674, March 2, 2014, Regent Adelia Garza, Houston;
7. St. Helena of the Cross #2679, July 6, 2014, Regent Eneida Pleasant, San Antonio;
8. Mary, Mother of the Redeemer #2680, August 9, 2014, Regent Patricia Gutierrez,
Houston;
9. St. Dominic of the Rosary #2682, August 19, 2014, Regent Belinda Kiger, San Antonio;
10. Daughters of St. Thomas More #2683, October 12, 2014, Regent Mary D. Monteverdi,
San Antonio;
11. Our Lady of Light #2684, October 19, 2014, Regent Mary Creason, Coppell;
12. Loving Mother of Mercy #2689, February 8, 2015, Regent Ella Rios, Brownsville;
13. St. Peter the Apostle #2690, March 21, 2015, Regent Gloria Villanueva, Boerne.
Introduction of the Century Club
Peggy Rosales, State Regent, explained the “Century Club” as a new award for new courts, who
institute with one hundred (100) plus new members. These new courts will be presented a
plaque showing appreciation and dedication of the hard work it takes to institute a court with
over one hundred new members.
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The following new courts were presented Century Club plaques:
Court Our Lady of SEAS #2661, Regent Jeri Ahart, San Antonio, 121
Court Daughters of Holy Family #2665, Regent Joann Bleier, Victoria, 168
Court Mary, Mother of the Redeemer #2680, Regent Patricia Gutierrez, Houston, 109
Court Development Awards
Eve Trevino, Court Development Chairman, explained the criteria for the St. Bernadine of Siena
awards for court development. She presented court development awards to the following CDA
members who were instrumental in the development of a new court in Texas.
Carolyn Malik, Immediate Past State Regent, and Joann Bleier, Regent, Court Daughters of the
Holy Family #2665, Victoria;
Julie Garrison, Regent, Court St. Theresa Benedicta of the Cross #2668, Denton;
Olga Samaniego, First Vice National Regent, Court St. Theresa of the Child Jesus #2671, Campus
Court, El Paso;
Janie Corona, DD#22, and Velda Correa, Regent, Court Lady of Schoenstatt #2672, Weslaco;
Lydia Martinez, DD#13, and Teresa De Los Santos, Regent, Court Mary Queen of Angels #2673,
Elmendorf;
Mavis Dugas, DD#20, Virginia Diehl, and Adelia Garza, Regent, Court St. Angela of the Cross
#2674, Houston;
Fran Stegge, DD#62, Court Helena of the Cross #2679, San Antonio;
Mary Jane Albert, DD#54, and Patricia Gutierrez, Regent, Court Mary, Mother of the Redeemer
#2680, Houston;
Fran Stegge, DD#62, Court St. Dominic of the Rosary #2682, San Antonio;
Valeria Brandt and Diana Staha, DD#18, Court Daughters of St. Thomas More #2683, San
Antonio;
Brother Knight Jeff Florey, Council #3181, Joyce Pierce, DD#39, and Mary Creason, Regent,
Court Our Lady of Light #2684, Coppell;
Irma Sanchez Pena and Socorro Vicinaiz, DD#31, Court Loving Mother of Mercy #2689,
Brownsville;
Merlene Peters, DD#42 & #59, and Gloria Villanueva, Vice Regent, Court St. Peter the Apostle
#2690, Boerne.
Membership Contest Awards
Eve Trevino, State Membership Chairman, announced the winners of the Membership Contest. A
complete list is attached to the original minutes.
Financial Review Committee Report
Janis Wright, Chairman of the State Financial Review Committee, Houston, reported that on June 1,
2013, the State Financial Review committee met with the State Board in Seguin at the CDA house. The
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State books were reviewed for the period March 1, 2013, through May 31, 2013. The convention books
were also reviewed.
On June 14, 2015, the State Financial Review Committee met with the State Board in Shiner. The State
books were reviewed for the period June 1, 2013, through May 31, 2014.
On March 6-7, 2015, the State Financial Review Committee met with the State Board in Seguin at the
CDA house. The State books were reviewed for the period June 1, 2014, through February 28, 2015. An
interim financial review for March 1, 2015 through May 31, 2015, will be held on June 6, 2015, in Seguin
at the CDA house. The 2015 Convention books will be reviewed at the same time.
The books reviewed were found to be in good order. This committee commends the State Board for
their accurate recordkeeping and organization of the State Books.
Janis Wright expressed thanks to the members of the State Financial Review Committee: Christine
Moore, Columbus; Gennie Loggins, Highlands; Carolyn Janak, Yoakum; Carol Snowbarger, Sugar Land;
and Gussie Machalec, Moulton, for their help the past two years. Mary Rose Barta, Shiner, was also
thanked for her help with various reviews. Finally, Janis Wright thanked Peggy Rosales, State Regent, for
having the confidence in her.
The Chair called for a show of voting cards for the Financial Review Report adoption. The report was
adopted and is filed with the original minutes.
Habitat for Humanity Presentation
Carolyn Rapsilver, State Habitat for Humanity Chairman, reported that due to reasons beyond
her control the original plan for a house in Sealy, Austin County, was diverted to Columbus,
Colorado County. A slide presentation was shown depicting the various stages of the
construction from the blessing of the home to the dedication. The house was completed in
January, 2015, for the LaJoe Dancy family. Peggy Rosales, State Regent, expressed her thanks to
Carolyn Rapsilver and all those who helped with the 6th Habitat Home located in Columbus. A
report is filed with the original minutes.
Message from National Director – Carolyn Bachmann
Carolyn Bachmann, National Director, Scotland, addressed the members on the subject of Membership.
First, she presented a video by Olga Samaniego, First Vice National Regent, National Membership
Chairman, El Paso, on membership statistics. She offered the following suggestions for members to
increase court membership.
1. Be prayerful in your court
2. Be active in your community and parish
3. Be proud of CDA and share your experience with other women
4. Participate in National Membership contest, BOGO, Bring One, Gain One
5. Search for new court possibilities
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Carolyn Bachmann outlined the statistics of Texas membership from 2005 to 2015:
16,043 in 211 courts in 2005
16,271 in 239 courts in 2015
Which is an increase of 228 members and 28 new courts in ten years; this is only maintaining what we
have, not an increase. She gave the members five survival steps. First, we have to be productive and
worthwhile courts. If new members are going to carve out time to participate in another organization,
you have to give them a reason to do so. Second, we have to work on retention. Courts will lose
members through death and relocation; however, do not lose members to lack of attention. We need to
listen to new ideas, throw out outdated programs, pray for each other, and change to meet today’s
demands. Third, appoint a membership chairman and committee. Your court should order new
recruitment supplies. A membership committee will be focused on recruiting and what we focus on we
accomplish. Fourth, recruitment is the key to your court’s survival. Brainstorm with court members to
come up with recruitment ideas. Be active and on fire for serving God and His people. Fifth and final
step, ensure CDA’s survival with Court Development. Texas does very well, but the state officers cannot
do it alone. Each member needs to go out into the neighboring communities, find parishes without a
court; then, pass your leads to the State Officers.
Finally, she asked the members: “Do you love your organization? Then get busy recruiting so there will
be CDA courts for your daughters and granddaughters to know, to love, and to serve God.”
Campus Courts
Irene Quesnot, State Campus Court Chairman, reported that in November, 2014, a campus
court retreat was hosted in San Antonio. The theme of the retreat was “Like Mary, How can we
be strengthened through the love of God and Christ.” While there were opportunities for
prayer, movie watching, and games, the members came alive when they were able to create
canvases displaying their art along with a quote that was meaningful to them. She presented a
short video of the Campus Court members expressing their love for Catholic Daughters of the
Americas. A complete report is included with the original minutes.
Announcements from National Catholic Daughters of the Americas
Carolyn Bachmann announced a new program of the 1903 Society; sponsor a window for
$1,000.00. The Charity Fun “D” calendar is still ongoing, drawings are held daily for $30.00, on
special holidays for $100.00, and on National CDA Day for $1,000.00. All checks to the National
office must be made out to Catholic Daughters of the Americas per the banking system. There
are some seats left for the Rome/Poland National Pilgrimage, November 1, 2015, 14 day trip.
Announcements
o Evaluation sheets are in the Convention bag; please fill out and return to designated
boxes;
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o Fun Night, “CDA Goes to the Cinema,” located at the Rio Grande Exhibit Hall begins with
the Purple Carpet of stars at 6:00 p.m. Dinner will be served beginning at 7:00 p.m.
There will be dancing and game tables for your enjoyment.
o The silent auction will be held during Fun night in the Rio Grande Exhibit Hall.
o Meet the Candidates is at 8:30 p.m. in the Rio Grande Exhibit Hall towards the back of
the room.
o All district deputies and members of the elections, credentials committees and monitors
who will be working tomorrow’s morning shift must attend a short meeting here on the
convention floor immediately following adjournment this afternoon.
o Voting delegates must be in the hall tomorrow morning at 7:45 a.m. The doors will close
at 8:00 a.m. sharp.
o Turn in raffle books to Cynthia Novak before 8:00 a.m. Saturday morning. Drawing will
be held at 8:30 a.m. Winners’ names will be posted on board in the Atrium.
o Door prize tickets are in your tote bag; drawings will be held today and tomorrow at
8:30 a.m. and noon. Numbers will be listed on the board in the Atrium.
o State Sales is located in the Atrium. There are many items from the National store.
There are many other items including clip boards.
o Prayer room is located in the Guadalupe room.
o Sister Louise Marie Jones, our 2011 Convention Keynote speaker is here today.
o Choir practice for the Installation Mass will be held right before the Installation Mass.
The meeting was recessed at 4:43 p.m.
Elections
Delegates assembled in the Grand Ballroom to begin the voting procedure at 7:45 a.m. on
Saturday, April 11, 2015. District Deputies signed in the delegates in their respective districts
and delegates signed the voter sheets. The doors to the convention floor were closed at 8:10
a.m. Election Committee Chairman, Anne Martin, Victoria, conducted the roll call of the
districts to determine if all districts were ready to vote. District Deputies distributed the color
coded ballots to each registered delegate, while the chair gave instructions. After all ballots
were picked up and turned in to the Elections Committee, the Chair declared the polls closed
and delegates were dismissed.
Interim Credential Report
Gennie Loggins, Chairman of the Credentials Committee, presented the following report as of
7:30 a.m. on Saturday, April 11, 2015.
13
Voting Strength
Number Allotted
Potential
Elected & Submitted
1
5
1
1
5
1
Actual
National Officer
State Officers
Immediate Past State
Regent
Past State Regents
Delegates
1
5
1
7
873
5
603
5
528
Total Voting Strength:
887
615
540
A copy of the report is filed with the original minutes.
The meeting reconvened at 8:50 a.m. on Saturday, April 11, 2015.
Morning Reflection
Carolyn Rapsilver, State Spiritual Enhancement Chairman, led the delegation in morning praise.
Introductions
Peggy Rosales, State Regent, introduced those seated on the dais.
Timekeepers and Pages
Timekeepers for the morning of Saturday, April 11, 2015, were Dorothy Brock, District Deputy
#27, Whitney, and Joyce Ellis, District Deputy #52, Dallas. Pages for the morning of Saturday,
April 11, 2015, were Anna Chapman, District Deputy #15, Del Rio, and Margaret Canizares,
District Deputy #26, Argle.
State Regent’s Report
Peggy Rosales reported on her term as State Regent. She reflected on her term and the many
activities that were attended or recognized. She reported on the five courts that have reached
their 100 year anniversaries: Court Louise #209, Fort Worth; Court Star of the Sea #228,
Galveston; Court Our Lady of Victory #234, Houston; Court Corpus Christi #246, Corpus Christi;
and Court St. Mary #249, Muenster. She was saddened to report the passing of four past state
regents (Margaret Cutbirth, Crosby; Eleanor Treanor, Houston; Dolly Pena, Laredo; and Cecina
Koeijmans, Dallas) and one state chairman (Carolyn Richbourg, Tyler), during her term. Also,
reflected on the disbandment of six (6) courts, however, twelve (12) new courts were
instituted.
Her goals for the term culminated in several activities around the state. A Habitat for Humanity
home was built in Colorado County. A weekend of “Pray and Play” in El Campo benefiting our
State MOM projects raised $4,600.00. A Campus Court retreat weekend was held in San
14
Antonio. Our Memorial Scholarship program grew to include over seventy-five percent of the
Texas courts participating. With donations from around the state, Texas was able to donate
over $209,000.00 to our many charities and projects.
Peggy Rosales concluded by thanking everyone for all their hard work during her term of office.
She noted that much was accomplished because of their strength and commitment. She
reminded the assembly that “We can do all things through Christ who strengthens us.”
State Treasurer’s Report
Rebecca Brown, State Treasurer, presented the treasurer’s report for the period June 1, 2013,
through March 1, 2015. One copy of the report was made available to each court at the
convention.
A complete report is attached to the convention minutes.
Reading of Communications
Melodie Brunt, State Secretary, reported that there was no correspondence at this time.
Past Regents Club
Pat Carr, President of the Past Regents Club, reported that the PRC provided twelve (12) new
courts with court books and National Charter fees; one thousand dollars ($1000.00) was sent to
State Court for new District Deputy robes; fifty dollars ($50.00) was sent to five (5) courts who
celebrated 100 year anniversary; one thousand dollars ($1000.00) was sent to the State Court
for education contest awards; one thousand dollars ($1000.00) was sent to JCDA; and two
hundred dollars ($200.00) was sent to the State Court for memorial scholarship. That is a total
of five thousand two hundred twenty five dollars ($5,225.00) provided by just ten dollars
($10.00) a year by the members of past regents club.
Circle of Love Awards
Carolyn Malik, Immediate Past State Regent, announced the following awards in each category
for the Circle of Love contests; Education, Legislation, National Projects, Quality of Life, Spiritual
enhancement, Leadership, and Youth/JCDA.
A complete list of all winners is attached to the convention minutes.
The meeting was recessed at 10:10 a.m.
JCDA Mass
A mass for the Junior Catholic Daughters of the Americas was celebrated on Saturday, April 11,
2015, at 10:30 a.m., in the Grand Ballroom. Monsignor John Peters, JCDA State Chaplain, was
the celebrant.
15
The meeting reconvened at 1:05 p.m.
Elections Report
The Elections Committee consisting of members Pat Koteras, Tempe Gerngross, Bertie
Almendarez, Joan Schramek, Diane Staha, Sonya Higgins, Delma Cantu, Erica D. Garcia, L. Faye
Marshall, Debra Green, Suzie Guillen, Janie Villarreal, Fran Stegge, and Carmen Longoria,
advised by Olga Samaniego, and chaired by Anne Martin who presented the following election
results:
Office State
Treasurer
Candidates
Votes
Cast
521
Carolyn Rapsilver
Terri Beltran
Benji Pardee
Votes
Received
Votes
Needed
262
221
247
53
The report on the Nominating Committee was presented as follows:
Candidate
Votes Received
Linsay Tomlinson
Anna Cedillo
Diana Kammer
Virginia Olsovsky
Dee Ann Jimenez
Norma Guerra Valdez
Sandra Blanchard
Georgia Mikosh
Joann Bleier
Donna Shula
Christine Moore
Mary Louise Ludt
Judy Arkangel
Darlean Newman
Donna Rea
Diana Garcia
Esther E. Waters
Antonia Ledesma
Patricia Gutierrez
Adelina Ramirez
238
107
81
229
108
136
94
105
142
82
218
115
114
70
80
109
124
71
98
136
16
Invalid
Ballots
0
A runoff election was required for the office of State Treasurer because there was no clear
majority. A runoff election for the fifth candidate for nomination committee was required
because of a tie vote.
Benji Pardee, candidate for State Treasurer, withdrew her name from the list. She expressed
appreciation for the nomination.
The chair declared Linsay Tomlinson, Virginia Olsovsky, Christine Moore, and Joann Bleier as
members of the 2015 Nominating Committee. Norma Guerra Valdez and Adelina Ramirez were
tied for fifth place. A re-election will determine which member will be on the nominating
committee and which one will be the alternate.
JCDA Skit
The JCDA State Officers reported on the activities of the officers and members for the 20132015 term, followed by an invitation to the JCDA State Convention, June 26-28, 2015, in Corpus
Christi.
Spirituality Presentation
Father Donald Ruppert, State Chaplain, delivered a short presentation on spirituality. Father
Don reminded the Catholic Daughters of the Americas to be themselves when talking to God,
be comfortable with prayer during court meetings, read Sacred Scripture, pray the Rosary, be
versatile, use prayer books, go on-line or view EWTN. He encouraged everyone to know the
Liturgical cycle; that Easter is the most important season and that Holy Week consists of three
days.
He said the most important thing to remember: be prepared and start on time. He encouraged
all to read the Ceremonial and Prayer Services sections in the Tools of the Trade. He ended his
presentation with his own brand of humor, which will be missed by all.
Peggy Rosales, State Regent, presented Father Ruppert with a membership in the 1903 Society
on behalf of the Texas State Court for his many years of commitment to Texas Catholic
Daughter of the Americas.
Re-Election
At this time, Peggy Rosales, State Regent, cleared the convention hall of non-delegates in
preparation for the re-election of State Treasurer and tie for fifth place on the Nominating
Committee.
17
Credential Report
Gennie Loggins, Chairman of the Credentials Committee, presented the following report as of
1:00 p.m. on Saturday, April 11, 2015.
Voting Strength
Number Allotted
Potential
Elected & Submitted
1
5
1
1
5
1
Actual
National Officer
State Officers
Immediate Past State
Regent
Past State Regents
Delegates
1
5
1
7
873
5
603
5
535
Total Voting Strength:
887
615
547
Anne Martin, Elections Committee Chairman, conducted a re-election of State Treasurer and
fifth place for the Nominating Committee.
The meeting was recessed at 2:29 p.m.
Workshops
Workshops for the First Session were presented from 3:00 p.m. to 3:45 p.m.
Topic
Circle of Love
Conducting a Financial Review
Conflict Resolution
JCDA
MOM and State Projects
Court Room Spirituality
Presenter(s)
Carolyn Malik
Janis Wright & Gennie Loggins
Rosie Stockwell
Sheila Martinka & Peggy Supak
Cathy Bittner, Benji Pardee & Melodie
Brunt
Duchess Collins & Rebecca Brown
Location
Wedgewood
Trinity A & B
Pecos
San Marcos
San Antonio
Sabine
Workshops for the Second Session were presented from 4:00 p.m. to 4:45 p.m.
Topic
Circle of Love
Conducting a Financial Review
Fundraising-Do’s & Don’ts
Respect Life
Parliamentary Procedures
Website Navigating
Presenter(s)
Carolyn Malik
Janis Wright & Gennie Loggins
Peggy Supak
Mary Rose Barta
Ellie Plunket
Ita Pena
Location
Wedgewood
Trinity A & B
San Marcos
San Antonio
Sabine
Pecos
A social hour in the Atrium of the Grand Ballroom at 6:00 p.m. was followed by the formal
Banquet at 7:00 p.m. in the Grand Ballroom.
18
Formal Banquet
Peggy Rosales, State Regent, welcomed dignitaries and honored guests to the 49th Biennial
Texas State Convention on behalf of the Texas State Board and the Austin Convention
Committee. She introduced and thanked her husband, George, their daughter, Lauren, and her
sister, Teri McIntyre, for their love and support during her time on the state board.
Father Donald Ruppert, State Chaplain, gave the Invocation.
Olga Samaniego, First Vice National Regent, brought greetings from the National Board. She
offered the following advice: “Keep your eye and heart open and know that service never
retires.”
Peggy Rosales presented Reverend Donald Ruppert a plaque and gift from the State Court for
his thirty four (34) years service to the Catholic Daughters of the Americas. She also thanked
the Texas State Board for their dedication and support over the past two years.
Peggy Rosales, State Regent, presented the Top 5 District Deputy awards to: Mary Cortinas,
DD#17, Alvin; Mavis Kathryn Dugas, DD#20, Houston; Janie Corona DD#22, San Benito; Merlene
Peters, DD#42, 59, New Braunfels; Cynthia Grigar, DD#28, Sealy.
Peggy Rosales, State Regent, presented State Regent Awards to: Carolyn Rapsilver, State
Habitat for Humanity Chairman, Sealy; Christine Moore, State Convention Chairman, Columbus;
Cathy Bittner, outstanding work into the Habitat build in Columbus; Eve Trevino, First Vice State
Regent, Membership Chairman; Sheila Martinka and Peggy Supak, JCDA Co-Chairmen.
Mistress of Ceremonies, Eve Trevino, First Vice State Regent, on behalf of the Texas State Court
presented Peggy Rosales, State Regent, with a Texas CDA State Award for her term 2013-2015
and the Past State Regent’s ring. She thanked Peggy Rosales for the time spent together on the
State Board and presented her with a check on behalf of the state membership.
Peggy Rosales thanked Laura Pena, State Banquet Chairman, for her outstanding job on the
banquet.
Reverend Donald Ruppert, State Chaplain, gave the Benediction.
Walk/Run Event
The fourth Walk/Run Event began at 6:30 a.m., from the front of the hotel, Sunday, April 12,
2015. There were 143 registered walkers with approximately 70 women who participated in
the walk/run event. The donations of $5,386.52 generated from this event will be divided
between the MOM’s Projects and the Texas State Projects with the exception of $500.00
19
specifically donated to the Coalition for Life-Blue Bus and $500.00 specifically donated to the
Smile Train.
The meeting reconvened at 8:35 a.m. on Sunday, April 12, 2015.
Morning Reflection was led by Carolyn Rapsilver, State Spiritual Enhancement Chairman, Sealy.
Timekeepers and Pages
Timekeepers for the morning of Sunday, April 12, 2015, were Susie Saenz, District Deputy #57,
Falfurrias, Texas, and Esther Waters, Regent of Court Queen of the Rosary #2368, McAllen,
Texas. Pages for the morning of Sunday, April 12, 2015, were Barbara Lockwood, District
Deputy #55, Benbrook, Texas, and Janie Villarreal, District Deputy #58, San Antonio, Texas.
Final Credential Report
Gennie Loggins, Chairman of the Credentials Committee, presented the fourth and final report
as of 8:00 a.m. on Sunday, April 12, 2015.
Voting Strength
Number Allotted
Potential
Elected & Submitted
1
5
1
1
5
1
Actual
National Officer
State Officers
Immediate Past State
Regent
Past State Regents
Delegates
1
5
1
7
873
5
603
5
535
Total Voting Strength:
887
615
547
Report of the Election Committee
Anne Martin, Chair of the Elections Committee, and the elections committee consisting of the
same members as listed on the report of the first ballot, submitted the following report:
Due to no State Treasurer being elected on the first ballot, a second ballot was conducted.
Prior to the election, Benji Pardee withdrew her name for consideration.
The results of the second ballot were as follows:
Candidates for State Treasurer
Votes Cast
Voted Received
514
Votes Needed
258
Terri Beltran
Carolyn Rapsilver
271
243
20
Due to a tie for the position #5 on the Nominating Committee, a second ballot was conducted
between those two candidates only. The results of the second ballot were as follows:
Candidates for Nominating Committee
Votes Received
Invalid Ballots
1
Adelina Ramirez
238
Norma Guerra Valdez
296
Peggy Rosales, State Regent, announced that Terri Beltran received a majority of the votes and
is elected State Treasurer.
Peggy Rosales, State Regent, announced that Norma Guerra Valdez received a majority of the
votes and is now the fifth position and Adelina Ramirez will serve as first alternate on the
Nominating Committee.
Passing of the Robes Ceremony and Nominating Committee Charge
Carolyn Bachmann, National Director, conducted the ceremony of passing the robes from the
current state officers to the newly elected state officers. Carolyn Bachmann charged the newly
elected 2015 Nominating Committee with their duties.
Report of the Registration Committee
Judy Evanicky, State Vice Convention Chairman, Smithville, reported the following as of Sunday,
April 12, 2015:
Districts Represented
Courts Represented
59
180
National Officer
Past State Regents
Immediate Past State Regent
State Officers
State Parliamentarian
JCDA Officers
District Deputies
Delegates
Alternates
State Chairmen
Members
Guests/Spouses
Clergy
Total
1st Time Convention attendees
1
6
1
5
1
5
50
570
180
20
61
52
12
964
303
21
Report of the Bylaws Committee
Peggy Supak, State Legislative Chairman, La Grange, Texas, with committee members Fran
Ewart, District Deputy #7, Austin, Texas, and Teresa Contreras, District Deputy #50, McAllen,
Texas, and Advisor, Eve Trevino, First Vice State Regent, Corpus Christi, Texas, met on Thursday,
April 9, 2015, to review three proposed bylaw amendments presented by the Texas State
Board, one of which was withdrawn by the Texas State Board.
First Proposed Bylaw Change – Texas State Board
Article XI State Nominations and Elections
Section 2, A. Composition of the Nominating Committee
Current wording:
A Nominating Committee of five (5) members shall be elected at the State Convention.
Nominations for this Committee shall be made from the floor, following nominations for
Officers by roll call of Local Courts. The Local Court Regent or highest officer present shall make
the nomination.
Amended Wording:
A Nominating Committee of five (5) members shall be elected at the State Convention.
Nominations for this Committee shall be made from the floor, following nominations for
Officers by roll call of Local Courts present.
Rationale: In order for this to be in alignment with the National Convention, the National
Nominating Committee should be done by roll call of States and Local Courts present rather
than just states.
By the direction of the Bylaw Committee, Peggy Supak, Chairman, moved that the proposed
amendment be adopted.
The motion was adopted by show of voting cards.
Second Proposed Bylaw change – Texas State Board
Article XIV Campus Court, Section 11, Budget
Current Wording:
Campus Courts shall adopt an annual budget.
Amended Wording:
Delete Section 11. And renumber “Section 12.” on.
Rationale: Campus Courts have very little limited funds to budget.
22
By the direction of the Bylaw Committee, Peggy Supak, Chairman, moved that the proposed
amendment not be adopted.
The motion was adopted by show of voting cards. This proposal will not be sent to the
National Bylaw Committee.
Copies of the proposed bylaws are attached to the original minutes.
Report of the Courtesy Committee
Courtesy Committee members were Juanita Cantu, District Deputy #6, Marshall, Texas,
Chairman; Erica Garcia, District Deputy #16 & 41, Corpus Christi, Texas; Irene Quesnot, District
Deputy #60, San Antonio, Texas; and Rebecca Brown, State Treasurer, Angleton, Texas, Advisor.
Juanita Cantu, Chairman, presented the following resolution:
Whereas,
Whereas,
Whereas,
Whereas,
Whereas,
Whereas,
Whereas,
Whereas,
The 49th Biennial State Convention of the Catholic Daughters of the Americas
draws to a close, we are mindful of the time and effort the planning and
cooperation that have made the convention both productive and successful; and
Peggy Rosales, State Regent, along with the other state officers through their
efficient and excellent leadership, have contributed to the success of this
convention; and
Christine Moore, Chairman; Judy Evanicky, Vice Chairman; Laura Pena, Vice
Chairman; Theresa Wagner, Vice Chairman; Ruth Kunz, Secretary; DeLane Ibarra,
Treasurer and the many other chairmen and members of the planning
committee, as well as the courts of Central Texas, deserve our gratitude for their
outstanding coordination of this convention; and
Most Reverend Joe Vásquez, Bishop of Austin; Most Reverend Daniel E. Garcia,
Auxiliary Bishop of Austin; Reverend Donald Ruppert, State Chaplain; Monsignor
John Peters, JCDA State Chaplain, and all the faithful clergy and chaplains who
concelebrated the liturgies, giving inspiring messages and guidance; and
Bishop Louis J. Reicher Assembly #1099 Fourth Degree, of the Knights of
Columbus presented an impressive honor guard at the opening Mass; and
The Catholic Daughters of the Americas, members of District #7, presented an
impressive presentation of the Unity and Charity and the State Court banner and
of the colors and the Texas flag; and
The keynote speaker, Reverend Father James Sichko, workshop leaders, and
choirs who touched and inspired the participants of this convention; and
The following courts made it possible to have the beautiful music of Schola
Cantorum at the Opening Mass: Maria Galante #115, Austin; Guardian Angel
#739, Taylor; Sacred Heart #829, West; St. Joseph #1729, Waco; Mary, Mother of
Mercy #2143, Hillsboro; Our Lady of the Lakes #2220, Austin; Queen of the Holy
23
Whereas,
Whereas,
Whereas,
Whereas,
Whereas,
Whereas,
Revolved,
Rosary #2282, Hostyn; Our Lady Queen of Apostles #2391, Austin; Our Lady of
the Hills #2415, Round Rock; Our Lady of Peace #2489, Converse; Sacred Heart of
Mother Teresa #2570, Flatonia; Daughters of Our Lady of Fatima #2596, San
Antonio; Archangels of St. Michael’s #2618, Uhland; Our Lady of Knock #2672,
San Antonio; St. Helena of the Cross #2679, San Antonio; and St. Dominic of the
Rosary #2682, San Antonio.
The First Vice National Regent, Olga Samaniego, and Carolyn Bachmann,
National Director, who advised and inspired us; and
The JCDA’s youthful presence was motivating and inspirational; and
The Convention raffles, door prizes, and silent auctions were a success due to
the generous donations from Catholic Daughters and courts of Texas; and
The entertainment of Friday Fun Night, Saturday Night Formal Banquet and
hospitality extended along with the cooperation of the management of the
Renaissance Hotel in Austin were most gratifying; and
The host city of Austin, with their plentiful restaurants, and shopping districts
have made us feel so warmly welcomed; and
The invitation, extended by the courts of Corpus Christi to the 2017 State
Convention to be held in Corpus Christi, Texas, was most entertaining, festive
and motivational; now, therefore; be it
That the Courtesy committee comprised of Juanita Cantu, Chairman, District
Deputy #6, Marshall, Texas; Erica Garcia, District Deputy #16 & 41, Corpus
Christi, Texas; Irene Quesnot, District Deputy #60, San Antonio, Texas; and
Rebecca Brown, Advisor and State Treasurer, Angleton, Texas, and the
convention body express their gratitude and appreciation to all who contributed
to the success of this convention.
Juanita Cantu moved the adoption of the report of the courtesy committee.
Motion adopted by show of voting cards.
Announcement of Awards continued
Carolyn Malik, Immediate Past State Regent, Shiner, Texas, announced the winners in each
category for the National Education, Memorial Scholarships, Memorial Scholarship Enrollments,
Newsletter, Scrapbook, Website, and Respect Life.
Complete lists of winners are attached to the original minutes.
Report of the Walk/Run Event
Fran Ewart, District Deputy #7, Kempner, Texas, and Barbara Molloy, Court Our Lady Queen of
Apostles #2391, Austin, Texas, co-chairmen for the Walk/Run Event reported that 143
24
registered and 70 walked or ran. Fran Ewart announced that Court Bishop Adolph Marx, #1988,
Brownsville, Texas, had the most registered and Court St. Paul #1604, Shiner, Texas, had the
most donations.
Presentation of State Scrapbook
Lisa Jewel, State Regent Scrapbook Chairman, Deer Park, Texas, presented State Regent Peggy
Rosales a scrapbook for her term of 2013-2015.
NEW BUSINESS
By unanimous consent a motion was adopted to destroy the election ballots following the
conclusion of the convention.
Message from the State Regent Elect
Eve Trevino, State Regent Elect, has traveled all over Texas conducting CDA business; from
board meetings, officer training, multi-district meetings, courts’ anniversaries, new court
institutions, and many more events. She trusts in God to get her home safely and to make sure
she is doing His work for Catholic Daughters of the Americas. Her faith in God is what led her to
the theme for her term: “Everything is possible to the one that has faith.” Mark 9:23.
She outlined her goals and activities for the 2015-2017 term. Among them are to be women of
faith and to put God first in our lives; to encourage spiritual growth and prayer among our CDA
organization; to increase membership and seek areas for new CDA courts and campus courts;
to promote our motto, “Unity & Charity;” and to build a Habitat for Humanity home for a
deserving family. To accomplish these goals, Eve Trevino set some activities to accomplish these
goals: offer the services of our State Spiritual Enhancement Chairman to organize multi-district
retreats; encourage districts to come together to pray and interact in local activities; plan a Pray
and Play weekend for Mission of Mercy projects; partner with Habitat for Humanity for our 7th
build; work with National’s membership campaign; and many more activities outlined in her
report that will be attached to these minutes.
Eve Trevino expressed her appreciation and thanks to the previous state regents who have laid
the foundation for the Texas State CDA and thanked all her CDA sisters for their vote of
confidence in electing her their State Regent.
We are women of faith and “Everything is possible to the one that has faith.” Mark 9:23.
Bid for the 2019 Convention
Robert Lopez, Director of Sales & Sports Tourism, McAllen Convention and Visitors Bureau,
offered a bid to work with McAllen area courts for a 2019 State Convention with a short video
presentation of the McAllen Convention Center, adjacent new hotels, and their arts center.
25
Invitation to the 2017 State Convention
The delegates from Corpus Christi presented a short skit with Nemo, the talking fish, baseball
players, beach bums and even Selina, inviting all delegates, members, and guests to Corpus
Christi, Texas, for the 2017 State Convention.
Ways and Means Report
Cynthia Novak, Chairman of the Ways and Means, reported the State Raffle brought in
$19,610.00; the Silent Auction brought in $5,677.00; and Lucky Lotto brought in $3,891.00. She
thanked all the courts, members, district deputies and everyone that participated in the state
fund raisers. A copy of the report is attached to the original minutes.
State Regent’s Closing Remarks
Peggy Rosales, outgoing State Regent, expressed her appreciation and thanks to:
 Everyone who has been involved with CDA in Texas
 The Grace of God that has continued to bless Texas CDA with gifts of treasure
 The local courts for all their service to the State Projects, their communities, and their
parishes
 The local courts for all their donations
 And the State Board, state chairmen, district deputies, and the local courts for their
cooperation and support that made it possible for goals to be accomplished
Her final words were, “Remember that, ‘We can do all things through Christ who strengthens
us.’ God Bless You.”
A complete State Regent Report is filed with the original minutes.
Retiring of colors
The colors were retired by members of Court Our Lady Queen of Apostles #2391, District #7,
Austin, Texas.
Closing prayer was led by Carolyn Rapsilver, State Spiritual Enhancement Chairman. Closing
Ode was led by Carolyn Rapsilver accompanied by Cynthia Griger, District Deputy #28.
There being no further business to come before the assembly, Peggy Rosales, State Regent,
declared the 49th Biennial Texas State Convention of the Catholic Daughters of the Americas,
adjourned at 10:45 a.m. Sunday, April 12, 2015.
26
Installation Mass
The installation Mass for the newly elected State Officers was held at 11:00 a.m., Sunday, April
12, 2015. Reverend Bob Dunn, newly installed State Chaplain, Corpus Christi, Texas, was the
celebrant and homilist for the Mass of Installation. Father Dunn presided over the installation
ceremony for the newly elected state officers.
______________________________
Melodie Brunt, State Secretary
_______________________
Date
27
Installation Mass
The installation Mass for the newly elected State Officers was held at 11:00 a.m., Sunday, April
12, 2015. Reverend Bob Dunn, newly installed State Chaplain, Corpus Christi, Texas, was the
celebrant and homilist for the Mass of Installation. Father Dunn presided over the installation
ceremony for the newly elected state officers.
Melodie Brunt
______________________________
Melodie Brunt, State Secretary
10/3/2015
_______________________
Date
1
State Regent Report
2013 – 2015
The last two years have gone by so fast! Ten years ago I started on this journey with being
elected State Treasurer. Father Donald Ruppert was the State Clergy Consultant in 2005 and I
was installed by him. It was only fitting that in 2013 Father Don was installed as State Chaplain
and would help me finish this journey in serving the Texas Catholic Daughters.
The term started with the change of power meeting in Austin with a State Regent’s Reception
in May, 2013, and we began planning our two year term. However in the middle of the
transition was the terms first court institution in Victoria, Court Daughters of the Holy Family
#2665. I did a little redistricting of districts and added another district, bringing our total up to
62. There were a couple of districts that had no district deputy; I have three district deputies
covering two districts. I appointed two additional state chairman; Court website Contest and
State Sales. I wanted to expand the thought on Pro-Life and renamed it - Respect Life and for
courts to take a more active role and not be “just check writers.” I appointed two additional cochairman for Youth/JCDA and Ways and Means. Msgr. John Peters agreed to continue serving
as State JCDA Chaplain.
The state board attended the JCDA State Convention in San Antonio. The final state financial
review was held in Seguin with a review of the state convention books as well. All books were
found to be in good order.
We attended 100 year anniversaries for the following courts: Court Louise #209, Fort Worth;
Court Star of the Sea #228, Galveston; Court Our Lady of Victory #234, Houston; Court Corpus
Christi #246, Corpus Christi; and finished with Court St. Mary #249, Muenster in December
2014.
We went through a difficult period of time losing Margaret Cutbirth, Past State Regent (19861988), of Crosby; eleven days later Eleanor Treanor, Past State Regent (1980-1984) of Houston;
5 days later Dolly Pena, Past National Director (1996-2000), Past State Regent (1992-1994) of
Laredo; and in October 2013 we lost Cecina Koeijmans, Past State Parliamentarian (2207-2011),
Past State Regent 1990-1992 of Dallas, Texas. In the spring of 2014, Carolyn Richbourg, State
National Projects Chairman, lost her battle to cancer.
In July 2013 the state officers attended the State Officers’ Workshop in Bellville, Illinois at the
Our Lady of the Snows Retreat Center. The summer of 2013 was a busy time, planning the
state organizational meeting in San Antonio at the Airport Hilton. We had little growing pains
and outgrew the Passionist Retreat Center in Houston. The State Organizational Meeting is
where we bring in the appointed District Deputies, State Chairman and Past State Regents for a
weekend of training, updates on programs, goals for the term and how we are going to
accomplish them with spirituality and sisterhood. The first state newsletter was also going to
print and coincided with the Fall Regent’s Resource Packet as well. The summer was also spent
finding a home for the 2015 state convention.
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We instituted 12 more courts in the course of the next 23 months. That is an average of a new
court every other month. We instituted one court in Denton; one campus court at the
University of Texas at El Paso, with National Regent Anne Nelson in attendance. Weslaco was
the next court instituted; we instituted three in San Antonio, two in Houston, one in
Brownsville, Coppell and 2 in the surrounding communities of San Antonio, Elmendorf and the
last one was 3 weeks ago in Boerne, Texas. This has yielded Texas an additional 800 new
members. With all this hard work, unfortunately; I had the unpleasant task to disband six
courts this term. The common thread to all six courts was the lack of ongoing recruitment of
new members and aging membership. Three of the courts were campus courts. They too,
without a strong advisor, constant recruitment and members graduating did not continue to
prosper.
One of the goals this term was to put an emphasis on our State MOM projects and a get
together mid-term. This became a reality known as “Pray & Play Weekend”! We had a retreat,
mass, dinner and fellowship on Saturday and on Sunday we had a bowling tournament and for
those not into rolling the ball, they played a legal bingo called, “Flags Up!” There was a silent
auction and we raised $4600 for our four MOM projects.
We attended several multi-district meetings in Alice, Houston and the valley. There were many
court anniversaries that we were able to attend, Priest, Clergy and Religious Appreciation
Dinners, district meetings and retreats.
One of the biggest activities that we undertake is our Local Officer Training in the summer of
2014. Rosie Stockwell, Second Vice State Regent is in charge of this, letting us know what we
are presenting, where we are to be and how to get there! We started in the second weekend
of June and finished with the last training in Marshall, Texas in conjunction with a state board
meeting in Texarkana. In the mix of the training was a National Catholic Daughter Convention
in Billings. Montana. Texas had a fairly good representation there of delegates along with the
elections of Olga Samaniego to First Vice National Regent, Carolyn Bachmann, National Director
and Rosie Stockwell, Chairman of the National Nominating Committee.
One of the goals set for this term was another build of a Habitat for Humanity home. We
started work with the Austin County Habitat for Humanity, when it became apparent that God
had a different plan than we had set out to do; Carolyn Rapsilver, State Habitat for Humanity
Chairman, began checking around to the surrounding areas and found us to be an answer to
someone’s prayers – Colorado County Habitat for Humanity! We started the framing on
October 10th a week after the slab had been poured and papers signed. Within about 15
scheduled CDA work days the house was dedicated on January 10, 2015.
Irene Quesnot, State Campus Court Chairman planned a Campus Court weekend in San Antonio
at the Oblate Renewal Center for the girls together and share what is happening on their
campus’ and in the local court. They had a weekend of spirituality, training of local court officer
duties, CDA sisterhood. We had three Campus Courts attend; University of Incarnate Word,
University of St. Mary’s and our newest one at the University of Texas at El Paso.
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Our Memorial Scholarship program continues to grow to new heights, over 75% of Texas courts
participate and we were able to award $39,250 to 46 students. And we should be awarding
close to $37,000 for this year’s award winners. We have ordered 30,000 Mass cards with
envelopes and will be using them up just short of the next term. $74,000 has been awarded in
scholarships to students related to members of CDA Texas or a JCDA member.
Through the gracious gifts from the courts in Texas and a grant we have received over $88,600
for the Texas State Projects, MOM’s Projects, National Projects and National Charities this term.
The state board elected to give various women religious groups in Texas approximately $8500
in donations to help them with their ministries. It is truly through the grace of God that CDA
Texas continues to be so blessed with our gifts of treasure. There have been many hours given
to our state projects, along with what courts do in their local communities and parishes. With
all donations from local courts, grants, state court donations for National Projects, National
Charities, State Projects, MOM’s Projects, Memorial Scholarship, Theological Fund Texas has
been able to donate on behalf of the courts in Texas over $209,000.00! Texas is very blessed!
We continue to work on technology growth across the state. One unspoken goal was to have
JCDA and Campus Courts have a tab and information about them on the state website. JCDA
tab was established after their state convention in June 2013. It has been up and running with
the latest Junior Jazz quarterly newsletters, how to start a JCDA court and how to join a JCDA
court. The Campus Court tab has been established, but at this time it is a work in progress. The
Court locator was working earlier this term, however it became outdated and different
language made it difficult to update and has been disconnected and currently, “Under
construction!”
I along with Eve Trevino, First Vice State Regent were able to attend several of the JCDA
Commission Meetings, and even the entire State board was able to make one meeting with the
JCDA State Officers. Secretly, I had another goal; to have the First Vice State Regent work with
the JCDA Co-chairmen and help advise and plan the JCDA State Convention. This goal was
quickly achieved because of the location of the JCDA 2015 State Convention in Corpus Christi
and the willingness of Eve Trevino to work on this convention while I worked on the CDA State
Convention. These two conventions have always been planned simultaneously.
Through cooperation and support of the State Board, the state chairman, district deputies and
the local courts working together, all these goals and accomplishments would not have been
achieved. I thank each and every one of you for all the work you do, it is through our strength
and commitment that we are able to do so much. Remember that, “We can do all things
through Christ who strengthens us.”
This concludes my report. May God bless you all.
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TEXAS STATE COURT
Treasurer's Report
June 1, 2013 - March 1, 2015
FUNDS
1000-12 General Account - Prosperity Bank
1002-12 Special Account - Prosperity Bank
1008-12 Charitable Account - Prosperity Bank
1010 - CD#1 Wells Fargo
$90,524.17
$40,623.24
$10,155.71
$33,709.82
TOTAL FUNDS
$175,012.94
Beginning Balances Checking/Savings
$193,320.99
INCOME
New Court Charters - PRC Reimbursement
Education Contests - PRC Reimbursement
District Deputy Robes - PRC Reimbursement
Charter Pins
Texas Promotional Items
State Newsletter Subscriptions
Texas Habitat for Humanity
Respect Life
Juarez Mission School
Missions of Mercy (MOM) State Projects - Annunciation Maternity Home
Casa Juan Diego
Cameron Park/Colonias
Missionaries of Charity
Texas Disaster Relief Fund
American Wheelchair Organization
National Projects - Disaster Relief
Father Peyton Family Rosary
National Habitat for Humanity
Soar (Support Our Aging Religious)
Smile Train
National Charities - Apostleship of the Sea
Covenant House
Catholic Relief Services
The Laboure Society
Misericordia
Morality in the Media
Mother Teresa
North American College
Project Handclasp
Tutwiler Clinic
Membership - State Dues
JCDA Assessment
Theological Fund Assessment
Campus Court Assessment
2013 State Convention Profits
Memorial Scholarship Fund (MSF)
Organizational Meeting Reimbursement
Donation Income
Miscellaneous Income
Texas Walk/Run Active Activities
National Convention - State Night
Interest Income
Reimbursement of Bank Charges
TOTAL INCOME
$550.00
$490.00
$1,000.00
$2,448.00
$6,197.00
$40.00
$41,265.54
$2,188.18
$3,521.00
$8,584.28
$3,429.50
$2,945.50
$2,859.50
$4,564.00
$6,157.00
$3,548.18
$2,638.05
$1,965.87
$2,660.87
$3,472.68
$749.87
$1,399.87
$1,089.87
$609.87
$528.33
$1,939.87
$1,054.87
$1,000.87
$468.33
$1,164.90
$90,967.00
$3,143.10
$31,431.00
$7,857.75
$21,110.01
$72,532.10
$1,546.73
$6,045.05
$3,525.32
$1,817.00
$2,475.00
$155.44
$27.00
$353,164.30
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TEXAS STATE COURT
Treasurer's Report
June 1, 2013 - March 1, 2015
EXPENSES
State Officer's Board Meetings
State Officer's Expenses
KC First Lady's Project
District Deputy Expenses
National State Regent's Workshop
State Chairman Expense
JCDA Convention Expense
Campus Court Retreats/Workshops
State Newsletter
State Leadership Team
Court Development and Membership
Project Outreach
New Court Expense
Pins and Promotional Items
2014 National Convention Expenses
2014 National Convention Expenses - State Night
2015 State Convention Expenses
State Retreats & Spirituality
Juarez Mission School - Court Donations
Missions of Mercy (MOM) - Annunciation Maternity Home
Casa Juan Diego
Cameron Park/Colonias
Missionaries of Charity
American Wheelchair Organization
State Organizational Meeting
National Projects - Diaster Relief
Father Peyton Family Rosary
Habitat for Humanity
SOAR
Smile Train
National Charities - Apostleship of the Sea
Covenant House
Catholic Relief Services
The Laboure Society
Misericordia
Morality in the Media
Mother Teresa
North American College
Project Handclasp
Tutwiler Clinic
Theological Disbursement
Women Vocations/Religious
Program Ads (CDA & KC)
Education Contest
Gifts & Donations - State Court
Respect Life Donations
Memorial Scholarship Awards
Memorial Scholarship Awards - Printing and Cards
Texas Habitat for Humanity - Expense
Website
State CDA Server
National Supplies
Bank Service Charges
Miscellaneous Expenses
TOTAL EXPENSES
Ending Balances Checking/Savings
$3,685.75
$27,499.40
$500.00
$7,313.08
$2,245.58
$3,230.57
$3,198.73
$5,002.30
$4,208.03
$5,770.90
$3,116.39
$636.30
$2,287.59
$9,472.39
$8,048.93
$2,219.02
$9,395.00
$1,273.14
$3,101.00
$7,856.03
$3,032.00
$2,508.00
$2,627.00
$3,849.00
$26,923.13
$6,367.64
$4,197.51
$3,660.33
$3,810.33
$8,275.33
$1,500.33
$2,000.33
$1,815.33
$1,340.33
$170.33
$2,535.33
$1,900.33
$1,695.33
$1,260.33
$2,345.38
$32,000.00
$5,000.00
$650.00
$1,820.00
$7,457.50
$1,548.18
$78,150.00
$2,947.00
$44,791.55
$939.77
$2,167.28
$1,611.27
$10.05
$506.00
$371,472.35
$175,012.94
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