January 1, 2004

Update - Tournament Proceeds

I hope the Holidays were enjoyable for you and your family. As you know, in addition to establishing the scholarship at Siena, the Rugby Alumni has been holding a golf tournament in the memory of Terence McShane and Mike Taddonio.

This year we decided to donate the proceeds of the tournament to worthy causes in the names of Terence and Mike. We tried to choose organizations that not only would make them proud, but also have some affiliation to Siena College and/or the Albany area.

We did not realize when we started what a truly rewarding experience it would turn out to be.

We made donations to three organizations, the first being St. Casimir's School in Arbor Hill. We toured St. Casimir's School with Brother Michael Harlan from Siena, and were impressed with what Siena has done for the kids in this school and very proud to now be a part of that relationship.

We also contacted Fr. Kevin Tortorelli because of his involvement with the rugby team while at Siena. He recommended that we work with Fr. Jerome Massimino who is now with Holy Name Parish in NYC. We elected to direct our donation to the Holy Name School where the money will be used to help fund scholarships for needy children.

Lastly, we worked through Catholic Family Charities to sponsor 2 families in the Albany area this past Christmas. We shopped and wrapped presents to ensure that these families would actually have a Christmas this year. Again, it was very rewarding.

Thanks again for your ongoing support. Happy New Year.

Joe McCrudden

Class of 1987