NORTH CAROLINA
The following is a history of our Order in North Carolina in narrative form.
In 1903 our first council was formed in Charlotte. Charlotte Council received Council Number 770 on June 7, 1903. This was still the period when the Order's Supreme Office was known as the National Council. Charlotte's Charter was issued by the National Council. During this time there was no State Council or State Officers. In 1904 the National Council appointed a Territorial Deputy who had all the authority of a State Deputy and his area covered North and South Carolina. He was the only Territorial Officer and had no subordinate officers. This was no doubt due to the small amount of councils in the area. By 1906 North Carolina had two other councils. Our state now had three councils. The two new councils were Piedmont Council Number 939 Greensboro which was charted on November 24, 1905 and Wilmington Council Number 1074 which was chartered on January 21, 1906.
It should be noted that unlike other jurisdictions, North Carolina did not have other Catholic societies to compete with. In other areas of our country, especially the northeast, there were already established other Catholic societies. These were usually at the Parish or Diocese level. When our Order came into one of these areas there were at times an unfriendly atmosphere in which to deal with. These other organizations were fearful that members may be taken away or that new members may not join the group. After the establishment of the Wilmington Council there was a thirteen year wait for the next council in North Carolina. The next council to come into existence was St. Lawrence Council 1695 Asheville which obtained its charter on June 6, 1913. This was the first council to exist solely under the State's own Deputy. In 1912 the Supreme Council appointed John Rafferty as North Carolina's first State Deputy. He served during 1912 and 1913
During this time frame of 1903 to 1913 the four above councils were formed in North Carolina. Three under the Territorial Deputy and one under State Deputy Rafferty. In 1913 Warren V. Hall was appointed State Deputy who completed his term in 1915. No councils were developed during the reign of State Deputy Warren V. Hall. In fact it was not until 1924 under State Deputy C. F. Linthicum that the next council in North Carolina was developed. During this time there were four other State Deputies in the State. They were Henry Habenicht (1915-1916); John F. Rafferty (1916-1918); Matthew J. O'Neill (1918-1920) and F. M. Bultman (1920-1921). Under these gentleman no councils were developed. The council that was initiated under State Deputy C. F. Linthicum was Father Thomas Price Council 2546 Raleigh which came into existence on August 31, 1924. At this point in time new council development became a very scarce commodity. No new councils came into existence in North Carolina until 1941, after the start of World War II. There was a seventeen years hiatus in a new council coming on board. During this time there were eight State Deputies in North Carolina: James J. Montague (1926-1927); Francis J. Heazel (1927-1928); Thomas E. Rea (1928-1930); Francis J. Heazel (1930-1931); George T, Carey (1931-1934); Paul J. Baschon (1934-1936); V. Palmer Joe (1936-1938) and Lawrence M. Gerling (1938-1940). On April 27, 1941 under State Deputy Anthony Redmond Santa Maria Council 2829 Winston Salem was initiated. Soon thereafter on August 10, 1941 Cardinal Gibbons Council 2838 Fayetteville came on board. At this point there were seven councils in North Carolina. During World War II and the years after the war there were no new councils developed in the North Carolina jurisdiction. It was not until May 7, 1950 that the next council became active. This council was Council 3303 New Bern. This occurred under the reign of State Deputy George L. Gettier. During the time period from the establishment of Council 2838 Fayetteville in 1941 to the establishment of Council 3303 New Bern there were two State Deputies: Dennis J. Dunn (1943-1944) and John P. Cummins (1944-1947).
1951 and 1952 saw three new councils started in North Carolina. These councils were developed under the leadership of State Deputy L. Paul Nobert who served the State from 1950 to 1953. The councils coming on board were Maria Immaculata Council 3390 Durham; St. Pius X Council 3498 Burlington and Father O'Byrne Council 3574 in Jacksonville. Council 3390 was initiated on February 11, 1951. Councils 3498 and 3574 were started on March 23, 1952 and December 17, 1952 respectively.
Five years passed before North Carolina was able to produce another council. State Deputies Harry W. Clody was in office four of the next six years. His first term of office was from 1953 to 1955 during which time no new councils were developed. The years 1955 to 1957 saw State Deputy Charles F. Powers, Jr at the helm of the North Carolina State Council. He also was unable to produce new councils in North Carolina which had a very limited number of Catholics. Harry W.Clody returned to office during 1957-1958 and produced four new councils. These councils were: Father Thomas A. Williams Council 4464 Kinston; Bishop Hafey Council 4507 High Point; Father James Schomber Council 4600 Rocky Mount and Bishop McGuinness Council 4660 Wilson. These councils were initiated on September 8, 1957; December 1, 1957, May 4, 1958 and September 7, 1958 respectively. During 1959 through 1963 State Deputy Raymond W. Rohlfs was at the helm of the North Carolina State Council. There were no councils formed during this time period. In 1963 Donald F. Cole became the State Deputy and one council was formed during his two year term. This council is Msgr. Arthur Freeman Council 5487 Goldsboro. During the years 1965 through 1971 no councils were developed in the Tar Heel State. During this time the State Council was served by the following State Deputies; Matthew J. Bird (1965-1967); George E. Lund, Jr; (1967-1969); Rodney L. Booker (1969-1971) .
In 1971 the North Carolina State Convention elected Raymond E. Benston State Deputy. He served his State until 1973. During his term Catawba Council 6451 was initiated in Hickory on March 25, 1973. The next State Deputy was William W. Scott who served during the 1973-1975 years. During this time real expansion started for the North Carolina jurisdiction. Five councils were formed during this time period. Sandhills Council 6528 Southern Pines was initiated on December 12, 1973; John Ivey Council 6600 Greenville obtained its Charter on June 9, 1974; Msgr. Frank J. Howard Council 6648 Havelock obtained its Charter on January 9, 1975. On March 9, 1975 Msgr. Michael A. Carey Council 6650 in Cary came into existence and on June 1, 1975 St. Gregory Council 6700 Gastonia was formed.
In 1975 Ernest I. King was elected State Deputy for North Carolina and served until 1977. During this time two new councils were formed: Council 6712 Shelby and Father Maurice Council 6717 Sanford. Council 6712 in Shelby was formed August 24, 1975 and Council 6717 was chartered on September 7, 1975. Shelby council was officially dissolved in February 1983. (See later information on Council 11946). In 1977 Joseph H. Dick was elected State Deputy. He was in office until 1979 and nine new councils were formed during this time period. The following councils were formed during the reign of State Deputy Joseph H. Dick: Immaculate Mary Council 6970 Eden-Reidsville was chartered on August 21, 1977; Father Vincent J. Mahoney Council 7024 Swansboro was formed on January 22, 1978; St. James Council 7152 Statesville has a charter date of July 9, 1978; Immaculate Conception Council 7184 Hendersonville was started on October 29, 1978; Council 7186 Marion was formed on November 19, 1978; P. Holly Burch Council 7225 Lumberton was chartered on February 24, 1979; Father John B. McGuirk Council 7232 Roanoke Rapids was formed on January 28, 1979; Dr. John C. Monk Council 7259 Newton Grove started on March 4, 1979 and St. John Neumann Council 7343, Charlotte was initiated on May 20, 1979.
After the term of Joseph Dick was completed William A. Ries was the next North Carolina State Deputy. Under State Deputy Ries three new councils were formed. These councils were St. Therese Council 7406 Mooresville which was formed on September 3, 1979; St. James Council 7450 Concord which had a starting date of January 30. 1980 and Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen Council 7547 in Elizabeth City which was initiated on April 13, 1980.
On July 1, 1981 John D. Organ took over the State Deputy slot in North Carolina. Mr. Organ's two year term saw two new councils developed in the State. These were Our Lady, Star of the Sea Council 8143 Morehead City which had its start on May 23, 1982. Soon thereafter St. Michael Council 8363 Franklin came on board on April 24, 1983. It was also during leadership of Mr. Organ that Father Thomas A. Williams Council 4464 Kinston was reinstated. It had been dissolved sometime prior.
The next State Deputy for the North Carolina jurisdiction was George H. Wahl, Jr. During his two year term eleven new councils were formed which as of this date is the most new councils developed under any State Deputy in the history of Order in North Carolina. The councils that developed during this term were: Holy Cross Council 8509 Kernersville was formed on December 2, 1983; St. Dorothy Council 8864 Lincolnton was started on March 11, 1984; Sacred Heart Council 8680 Salisbury was initiated April 1, 1984; on May 3, 1984 St. Mary Council 8684 Greensboro was formed; Annunciata Council 8759 Kill Devil Hills was initiated on May 14, 1984 while Good Shepherd Council 8857 Hope Mills was formed on January 16, 1985; Jack Driscoll Memorial Council 8885 Brevard had their charter signed on February 18, 1985. Father Joseph Maule Council 8923 in Arden was started on April 2, 1985 and Father Michael Irwin Council 9001 Dunn was formed on June 4, 1985. On June 12, 1985 Bishop Vincent S. Waters Council 9030 Laurinburg was formed on June 12, 1985. The last council formed under State Deputy Wahl was Our Lady of the Rosary Council 9039 Brunswick County (Shallotte) on June 4, 1985.
1985 saw Ronald J. Carney, Sr. at the helm of the North Carolina State Council as the State Deputy. Under his two year term ten new councils were developed in the state. These councils were Council 9148 Belmont Abbey College (which has since become inactive) was initiated on November 17, 1985. On March 5, 1986, Our Lady's Council 9249 Davidson County had its start in the Lexington area. On June 22nd and 26st 1998 Msgr. Edward T. Gilbert Council 9364 Washington and Father Parker Wood Council 9365 Henderson were formed respectively. March 1, 1987 saw the beginning of St. John of Tryon Council 9492 in Tryon. In the Spring if 1987 North Carolina saw two new councils come into being. On March 1, 1987, Bishop Charles P. Greco Council 9499 was formed in Clemmons. On April 13, 1987 Father C. Ralph Monk Council 9549 began in Hillsborough. During the month of May 1987 three new council were formed in the state. On May 4, 1987 St. Vincent de Paul Council 9560 was formed in Charlotte. On the 14th Father Thomas McAvoy Council 9570 had its start in Lenoir and on May 31, 1987 Father William R. McShea Council 9679 was initiated in Morganton, NC.
The next State Deputy for North Carolina was Everett E. Lamczyk who served from July 1987 to June 1989. During his term five new councils were initiated into the Order. On January 6, 1988 All Saints Council 9709 was form in Raleigh. February 7, 1988 found Smokey Mountain Council 9722 formed in Sylva. St. Joseph the Worker Council 9746 Newton began. During the month of June 1988 two new councils were formed. On the 15th Sons of Mother Seton Council 9847 was formed and on the 28th. St. Raphael the Archangel Council 9880 had its beginning in Raleigh.
Richard C. Grebner became the State Deputy of North Carolina on July 1, 1989 and during his two year term of office initiated five new councils. The first of these councils was Holy Spirit Council 10389 in Denver, N. C, which came into existence on May 30, 1990 followed by Father J. A. Cowan Council 10495 in Albemarle October 17, 1990. On November 5, 1991 Our Lady of Mercy Council 10504 began in Winston Salem. The next council to come into existence under State Deputy Grebner was St. Thomas Aquinas Council 10505 in Charlotte. This was followed by Our Lady of Lourdes Council 10615 in Monroe on April 29, 1991.
During the 1991-1993 period State Deputy Donald Dubois provided North Carolina with nine new councils. On January 14, 1992 St. James Council 10783 in Hamlet was formed. This was followed by St. Matthew Council 10852 in Charlotte on April 1, 1992. On May 19, 1992 St. Joseph of Asheboro Council 10891 was initiated in Asheboro. May 20, 1992 saw the formation of Msgr. Lou Morton Council 10892 in Wendell. On June, 1992 saw the beginning of Paul Trageser Council 10910 in Chapel Hill, N. C. During 1993 under the leadership of Donald Dubois four new councils were developed. The first of these in 1993 were Queen of the Apostles Council 11076 in Belmont on March 23, 1993. This was followed by St. Pius X Council 1101 Greensboro on April 19, 1993. On April 19, 1993 North Carolina saw the start of Our Lady of the Assumption Council 11102 in Charlotte. The last council to begin under State Deputy Dubois was Sacred Heart Council 11103 in Pinehurst on April 28, 1993.
July 1993 saw James L. Neely as the State Deputy of North Carolina. During his two year term as State Deputy nine councils were initiated in North Carolina. The first of these councils was Mother of Mary Council 11180 on October 12, 1993 in Edenton. this was followed by St. Catherine of Siena Council 11234 on January 6, 1994 in Wake Forest. Also on January 6, 1994 Father John B. Paro Council 11235 was form in Roxboro. Soon thereafter on February 3, 1994 St. Ann Council 11265 in Smithfield. This was followed by Father James Keenan Council 11266 in Garner on March 9, 1994 and Holy Angels Council 11406 in Mount Airy on July 25, 1994. December 6, 1994 saw St. Nicholas Council 11467 in Cary formed. Two new councils were formed in 1995 under State Deputy Neely. The first of these councils was Columbus County Council 11494 in Whiteville on February 2, 1995 followed by Father Red Keene Council 11605 in Elkin on June 15, 1995.
Luther J. Stultz became the State Deputy of North Carolina on July 1, 1995, Under his leadership eight new councils were formed. On November 28, 1995 Father William P. Ryan Council 11683 was formed in Fayetteville. June 19, 1996 saw the initiation of Father Roland Gross Council 11817 in Castle Hayne. Father Thomas A. Williams Council 11848 was initiated on July 28, 1996 in Clinton. July 28, 1996 brought forth St. Eugene Council 11911 in Asheville. On January 30, 1997 Father John Hoban Council 11946 in Shelby was formed. In Boone, NC on April 26, 1997 Joseph Cardinal Bernardin Council 1966 was initiated into the Order. On June 21, 1997 Father James E. Waters Council 12017 was formed in Wilmington. This was shortly followed by Our Lady of Lourdes Council 12025 in Raleigh being formed on June 26, 1997.
July 1997 saw John A. Harrison become the State Deputy of North Carolina. As of this writing four new councils have been developed in the State. The first of these councils was Father Albert Todd Council 12119 in Fuquay Varina on December 7, 1997. On March 1, 1998 St. Joseph's of Kannapolis Council 12167 was initiated. In Burnesville, N. C. in June 1998 Father Andrew Graves, S.J Council 12233 was formed. This was followed by Immaculate Heart of Mary Council 12266 formed in Forest City on Juned 25, 1998. In 1998 King-Good Shepherd Council 12267 saw its beginning in King. Soon to follow was St. Jude the Apostle Council 12281 in Hampstead, NC which received its charter on August 11, 1998. St. Luke the Evangelist Council 12455, Father Michael W. Murphy Council 12478 in Maggie Valley, St. Francis de Sales Council 12481 in Lexington soon followed.
Robert J. Singer became State Deputy of North Carolina in July 1999.
COUNCIL NUMBER 770
CHARLOTTE, NC
CHARLOTTE COUNCIL NUMBER 770 IS THE OLDEST COUNCIL IN THE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA.
Charlotte Council 770 received its charter on June 7, 1903. At that time, North Carolina had less than 2 million people, 217 textile mills and 101 tobacco factories in operation. The state was nearly all Baptists and the average family wage was less than $1000 per year. This was a time of adventure and a time of beginnings. The first radio transmission experiments were successful by Reginold Fessenden from Roanoke Island to Cape Hatteras and Cape Henry, Va. The first mass produced automobiles, Ransom Olds, finished 1500 Oldsmobiles and the state's first automobile registration took place in Charlotte, NC. in 1903. In December, 6 months after the Council 770 charter date, Orvile Wright flew the first power-driven airplane at Kill Devil Hills. The State passed the first child labor laws and Booker T. Washington spoke at the State Fair.
St. Peter's Catholic Church, with its 200 members was the center of Catholic Life for the first ten years in Charlotte. Under the leadership of the First Grand Knight, James W. Conway, the first clubroom for Council 770 was in O'Donoghue Hall (1903-1919) which was part of St. Peter's Church. After World War I, the Supreme Council gave one of their army huts from Camp Green to the Charlotte Council 770 (1919-1929). This was moved to behind St. Peters Church in the center of Charlotte and served till 1929. To mark the Councils 25th anniversary in 1928, a banquet was held at the Chamber of Commerce. Two representative from Supreme and Bishop William J. Hafey of Raleigh were present for the occasion. The council grew from the original 40 members to over 200 by that time. In 1929 a home was purchased on West Seventh Street and was converted into a club house (1929-1953). In 1953, Council 770 purchased a track of 140 ! acres near Mint Hill and build a $50,000 Club House that was dedicated on October 11, 1953. The present brick club house on East Kingston Avenue was built and opened with a New Year's Eve dance on December 31, 1971. The present club house has been the center of Council 770's activities for the past 30 years.
Council 770 Knights were a key part of; (1) forming of the North and South Carolina Council in 1911, (2) Forming the North Carolina State Council in 1921, led by former Grand Knight, "Dad Linthicum", (3) Forming the present Charlotte Assembly 780 Fourth Degree in 1923, (4) Contributing Membership Growth to Charlotte Councils 7343, 7450, 9560, 10505, 10852, 11102, and, (5) Sponsoring Growth of Charlotte and surrounding Assemblies 2208, 2531 and 6451 in Hickory among others. In addition to fostering much of the Catholic growth in Charlotte, numerous priests, third degree and fourth degree community and state leaders have come from 770 over the past 100 years. No priest contributed as much as Msgr. John P. Manley, pastor of St. Patrick's Church and local chaplain and state chaplain for nearly 10 years. In 2002, the Council took its name sake and honored the first Bishop of Charlotte, and is now the Bishop Michael J! . Begley, Council 770.
As a pillar of the community, the Knights of Council 770 have lead, sponsored or enthusiastically participated in nearly every project devoted to the needy; including: helping Catholic Families in need, scholarships for children, rebuilding churches, funding and fixing the homeless shelters and the shelter for abused women and children, building over 100 ramps for the handicapped, running the Tootsie Roll drive (Operation LAMB) for the mentally handicapped, donating wheel chair vans to the Holy Angels Nursery, and housing refugees in the Charlotte area. Thanks mostly to the bingo games, the total donations to charity from the Knights of Columbus of Council 770 is over $1,000,000.
In addition to the service programs, the Knights have a lot of fun together with the Monthly Social meetings, Weekly bingo games, Holy Angel boat rides, Weekly Golf Club outings, State Golf Tournaments, Weekly Bowling outings, Columbus Day celebrations; Communion Breakfasts, Valentine Day Dinner Dances, The free Throw Contests, State Bowling Contests, Mother's Day dinner, and attending the State Knights of Columbus Meetings.
The Charter Members for Council 770 in 1903 were; First Friar and Rev. Francis Meyer, O.S.B., Rev. Joseph Mueller, O.S.B., Dr. D. O'Donoghue, John Martin, Chas. J. Eaglesfields, Geo. J. Williams, John B, Crowley, Harry W. Webber, Morrison J. Williams, Thomas T. Northy, Richard Jas. Northy, Henry Wellhouse, Jr., Leo Wellhouse, John J. Conroy, James W. Conway, Timothy C. Toomery, William Wade Kidd, James W. Rea, Thos. E. Rea, George M. Meyer, Joseph Leo Webber, William J. Malone, Chas, W. Gallagher, E. J. Gauhn, Joseph B. Gauhn, S. Paul Danley, C.S. Renz, John F. Williams, C.W. Williams, W. V. Dall, Harold S. Hall, Cornelius M. Phelan, John Phelan Kidd, Clarence W. Wetter, Theo. M. Foley, Joseph G. Foley, Robert C. Springer, George G. Fleming, William O'Donoghue, Chris J. Sebastian. The Supreme Knight, Edward L. Hearn signed the Charter on June 7, 1903.
The Past Grand Knights are as follows: J.W. Conway (1903-04), Paul P. Hanley (1905), Harold S. Hall (1906), C. A. Williams, Sr. (1907-08), M.J. O'Neill (1909-10), Warren V. Hall (1911-12), J.J. Breen (1913), C.H. O'Neill (1914-15), J.W. Barry, (1915-16), J. A. Schachner, Sr., (1916-17), Thomas E. Rea, Sr. (1917-19), Egar L. Pennell (1919-21), Melvin I. Benner (1921-23), Thomas F. Walsh (1923-24), James J. Montague (1924-26), Barrett Harris (1926-27), John J. Cantwell (1927-28), C. A. Williams, Jr. (1928-30), TEE. Clark (1930-31), William J. Spain (1931-34), Dennis J. Dun (1934-37), Leo H. Phelan, Sr. (1937-39), Charles H. Morris, (1939-41, 42-43), F. C. Markwalter (1941-42), George L. Gettier (1943-46), M. Leo Lacy (1946-48), Louis N. Minnick (1948-49), Joe F. Schachner (1949-50), Leo H. Phelan, Jr. (1950-52, 56), Herman J. Hoose (1952-54), William B. Rea (1955), James N. Kerns (1957-58), Cam LeFrancois (1959-60), George Balog (1961-62), John B. Balas (! 1963-65), J. Eugene Fairley (1965-67), Ernest R. Vaillancourt (1967-68), Robert M. Skurla (1968-71), George M. Kutcher (1971-73, 79-80, 87-88), Edward H. Cannon (1973-75), Charles M. Smith, Jr. (1975-77), Paul F. Juneau (1977-78), Charles F. McCollum (1978-79), Joseph P. Gotta (1980-82), Harold Sheppard (1982-84), Lee Reinhardt (1984-86), Gerald Calvasina (1986-87), Authur A. Turner (1988-90), Clarence Hubbard (1990-92), Marve Wyniemko (1992-93), Gerald H. Kolb (1993-96), Charles Malinowski (1996-97), Joseph J. Hunt, Sr., (1997-99), William Phieffer (1999-2000), Robert Winiarski (2000-02). The oldest living Past Grand Knight is William Rea.
The Current Officers of Council 770 are: Randall Vaca- Grand Knight, Richard Kelly- Deputy Grand Knight, Joseph F. Kenney- Financial secretary, Joseph Gotta- Treasurer, John Thompson- Chancellor, Jeff Ledbetter- Warden, Bob Wilusz- Recorder, John Ciepierski- Inside Grard, Thieh-Weah Manneh- Outside Guard, George Kutcher- 3 Year Trustee, Bob Skurla- 2 Year Trustee, William Pheiffer- 1 Year Trustee, Jerry Kolb- Advocate and Father Conrad Hoover- Chaplain.
We pledge that we will continue this great legacy of the Charlotte Knights of Columbus of Council 770 , so help us, God.
Sir Knights, Submitted by Grand Knight, Randall Vaca and Ray M. Maxson, Faithful Captain, Assembly 780 on July 12, 2002.
COUNCIL NUMBER 939
GREENSBORO, NC
Piedmont council received its charter from the Supreme Council on November 24, 1904. The charter Grand Knight was William M. McCormick;
R. D. Douglas, Deputy Grand Knight; Henry Rentz, Financial Secretary; J. J. McSorley, Recorder and Charles D. Higgins, Treasurer. The charter chaplain was Father Vincent G. Taylor.
The council meets at the Knight's Club, 2780 Horsepen Creek Road, Greensboro. When first organized the council would meet at the Elks Club in Greensboro. When the council was formed all 54 male parishioners of St. Benedict's Church formed the nucleus of the council. One of their first acts was to establish a scholarship fund for the youth of the area.
The Piedmont council over the years assisted in establishing councils in Burlington, High Point, Winston-Salem and at St. Mary's and St. Pius X churches in Greensboro. Two members of the council started the
"Teen Talent Award Show" in the 1960's. The show is jointly sponsored by Piedmont council and the Greensboro Parks and Recreation Youth Division.
This council has a been a major contributor to the North Carolina State L. A. M. B. project which assist the mentally retarded throughout the State of North Carolina. The council now has over 500 members and continues to grow.
COUNCIL NUMBER 1074
WILMINGTON, NC
Wilmington Council 1074 was chartered on January 1, 1906. Membership consisted of men in Southeast North Carolina. Chartered members were:
Rev. Christopher Dennen, W J Bergen, H T Bauman, E C Hines, Joseph Gillerlain, J K Corbett, D M Carroll, J O Reilly, T J Quinlevan, Chase J Crane, J A Price, W Waters, J B Peschaus, R C Banks, J J Allen, J P Jones, Wm Sheekan Jr., B M Jones, S M Jones, Wm Powell, W B Munroe, T B Carroll, W S Decker, Matt D Meir, Rev. TIP Hayden, W P Carroll, John Mahoney, J Darby, Robert Green Sr., B F Applewhite, Q Satchwell, P L Gasselin, Edward Managham, Timothy Donlan, A V Lafetteau, JW Sweeney.
With the development of other churches in Southeast North Carolina, Wilmington council lost members to the development of new councils. The first spin-off council was at St Stanislaus of Castle Haynes in 1996. St Marks of Wilmington in 1997, and St Judes of Hampstead in 1998. "Wilmington Council 1074" members are from Immaculate Conception at Carolina Beach, St. Therese at Wrightsville Beach and St Marys, downtown Wilmington.
Meetings of the Wilmington Council are held in the basement of Tileston School located at the corner of Ann and South 5th Streets. Planning meetings are held 730pm on the first Tuesday of the month. Business meetings are conducted 730pm on the second Tuesday of the month. Socials are designated on the fourth Tuesday unless a special activity is scheduled on another day.
The Monsignor Christopher Dennen Assembly, Fourth Degree, represented by all the councils in the area meets on the third Tuesday of each month, 730pm in Wilmington council chambers unless recheduled by Faithful Navigator to the chambers of another council.
The council meets at Tileston Hall at St. Mary's School in Wilmington, North Carolina.
The council has received the Star Council Award in the following years: 1967-1968; 1968-1969; 1969-1970; 1973-1974; 1975-1976; 1980-1981; 1982-1983; 1984-1985; 1988-1989; 1989-1990; 1996-1997; 1997-1998.
It has received the Columbian Award in the following years:
1974-1875; 1976-1977; 1977-1978; 1979-1980; 1981-1982; 1985-1986; 1987-1988; 1990-1991; 1992-1993; 1995-1996.
It received the John F. Kennedy Memorial Award in 1969-1970.
This council has received the State Distinguished Council Award in the following years: 1968-1969; 1969-1970; 1977-1978; 1978-1979; 1980-1981; 1981-1982; 1982-1983; 1983-1984; 1984-1985; 1985-1986; 1986-1987; 1987-1988; 1989-1990; 1991-1992; 1992-1993; 1995-1996; 1996-1997; 1997-1998.
The Honor Council Award was received by Wilmington Council during the 1993-1994 Columbian year as well as the 1994-1995 Columbian Year.
Due to a fire at the council building in the 1980's many records were destroyed. The history of the early years of this council are not available.
COUNCIL NUMBER 1695
ASHEVILLE, NC
Saint Lawrence Council 1695 was formed in Asheville, NC and received its charter from the Supreme Council on July 6, 1913.
The charter officers for this council were:
Grand Knight - M. J. Costello
Chancellor - Mr. C. McCawley
Chaplain - Father P. Marion
Financial Secretary - Mr. Sugg
Recorder - Mr. MillsThis council has been meeting since its inception in the basement of St. Lawrence Basilica. All of the minutes from 1913 have been preserved and in the files of the council.
There were 61 chartered members, 4 of which were priests and there was one bishop, the Right Rev. Bishop Haid. The council has donated $40,000.00 to have the two towers of the Basilica sealed and covered in copper. This covering keeps the Basilica in tune with other local building roofing in the local area. This was accomplished in 1996. In 1997 the council paid $4,400.00 to have handicapped ramp installed.
COUNCIL 2546
RALEIGH, NC
Father Thomas Price Council was chartered on August 31, 1924. The first Grand Knight was Herman Wolfe and the Chartered Chaplain was Rev. Thomas Griffin. Other chartered officers are unknown at this time. There were no District Deputies in 1924.
The council was formed at the time that the Raleigh Diocese was inaugurated in 1924. In the early years of the council they met at the Catholic Orphanage in Raleigh. When the Orphanage was disbanded the council was able to purchase 33 acres with a pond and an old clubhouse. This was used as the council's meeting place until a new clubhouse was built. The new meeting place is known as the Columbus Club of Raleigh and has been the scene of many District and State meetings as well as many degrees.
In the days prior to World War II the orphanage was the main project of the council. The work of the council was done around the children and the building. The council acted as surrogate fathers, taking the children under their wings, helping with their school work, providing clothing, vacations and kept the building in good working order.
During the War, the council was the only United Service Organization (USO) in Raleigh and the members saw that the military were entertained, fed and had a place to sleep. At the time of the council's 25th anniversary in 1949 the council had grown to over 100 members and included all of Wake, Durham and Johnston counties. Also by this time the council had two members who were State Deputies. Some of the noted members from this council were, Raymond Streb, George Burkett, Harry Clody, Charles Powers, Jr., W. W. Scott, George Wahl, Don Dubois and John Norkus. All were Past State Deputies, District Masters or Vice Supreme Master.
Some of the major accomplishments of the council, has been their dedication to the Catholic Advertising Program, the L. A. M. B. project at both the State and Council level. The council has held several State Conventions, State Golf Tournaments and a full program of local sports.
This is an independent council which has members from five local churches. Over the years the council has had Bishops, Monsignors and priest as Chaplains. For many years Father Price Council held a monthly Nocturnal Adoration Group made up of Knights. This was terminated at the request of the pastor as he felt the downtown area was no longer safe at night.
In 1999 the council will celebrate their 75th anniversary and it is gearing up for the celebration. Bishop Waters was an excellent member of this council, attended meetings and always appointed top priest to the council as Chaplains. Bishop Waters attended the council's 50th anniversary celebration and was honored by the council for his work within the Diocese and particularly for his work with and for the Knights of Columbus.
The council is honored to be named for the first TAR HEEL APOSTLE.
The council has survived the race issue and the conversion of the south. The Catholic population was less than 1% well into the 1950's. After this time the membership of the council saw a rapid growth.
COUNCIL 2829
WINSTON SALEM, NC
Santa Maria Council 2829 received their Charter from the Supreme Council on April 27, 1941. The council has always held their meetings at St. Leo The Great Catholic Church in Winston Salem, NC. The charter chaplain was Rev. Edward Biss, O.S.B. and the charter Grand Knight was E. J. Angelo.
The Charter members of this council were:
Rev. Edward Biss, O.S.B. V. P. Desanto
Rev. Ronald Scott, O.F.M. J. D. Farrell
J. D. Allen, Jr William F. Farrell, Jr
E. J. Angelo William F. Farrell, Sr
J.J. Angelo A. G. Gordon
M. A. Angelo, Jr F. L. Hunt
M. A. Angelo, Sr G. M. Keating
T. J. Angelo W. H. Lamberti
T. V. Angelo J. C. Ledwith
M. T. Baylin T. A. Lysett
P. J. Browne J. P. Mahony
J. S. Buie J. E. McHugh
L. N. Clerici J. M. Suarez
R. D. Clower Michael O. Shea
J. E. Cumberland G. M. Rice
H. A. Cunningham Justo Rios
A. R. Daye, Jr G. H. Trent
Charles Daye J. H. Westerman
C. J. Daye J. M. Widdifield
J. A. Daye J. L. Williams
Salim Daye Smith Williams, JrCOUNCIL 2838
FAYETTEVILLE, NC
Cardinal Gibbons Council 2838 received their charter from the Supreme Council on August 10, 1941. The State Deputy was Anthony Redmond from Saint Lawrence Council in Asheville, NC. In 1941 the State Convention was held in Greensboro, NC.
The other North Carolina State Officers in 1941 were:
State Chaplain - Rev. John A. Brown
Immediate Past State Deputy - Lawrence M. Gerling
State Secretary - Dennis J. Dunn
State Treasurer - J. J. Allen
State Advocate - Rev. Thomas A. Williams
State Warden - Dr. E. PrefontainCOUNCIL 3303
NEW BERN, NC
New Bern Council 3303 was formed on May 7, 1950. The charter Grand Knight was Clyde G. Rice. The first chaplain was Father Michael J. O'Keefe. The other charter officers were:
Deputy Grand Knight - Robert Blandford
Chancellor - Thomas Nicholas
Financial Secretary - Henry Byrne
Recorder - Joseph E. Zaytoun
Warden - George A. Carberry
Treasurer - Frank Volney
Lecturer - John S. Flickender
Advocate - L. C. Newman
Inside Guard - Henry Cramer
Outside Guard - George Pillon
Trustee 1 Year - Paul A. Schmuck
Trustee 2 Years - T. A. Libbus
Trustee 3 Years J - . B. Mullineaux
Frank Volney was replaced as Treasurer by Joseph M. Rachid due to disqualification since he was not an insurance member.When this council first started they met at St. Paul's Community House in New Bern. They have since built their own council building which is located at 1125 Pine Tree Drive, New Bern, NC.
New Bern council claims as some of their greatest achievements the purchase of their first council building located at 306 Bern Street, New Bern. The property was purchased from the Diocese of Raleigh and St. Paul's. As their membership grew from the original 37 members to over 435 as of this time they were able to purchase another parcel of land where the current council building stands. The ground for the new building was broken in May of 1994 and the building now has 8,192 square feet of usable space and is one of the finest facilities in New Bern.
COUNCIL 3390
DURHAM, NC
Maria Immaculata Council 3390 was issued its charter by the Supreme Council on February 5, 1951 under District Deputy Lee. B. Heavlin.
The charter officers for the council were:
Grand Knight - Jack H. Pendergrass
Chaplain - Patrick Tuttle, OFM
Deputy Grand Knight - Woody Webb
Financial Secretary - James M. Godowitch
Treasurer - Michael Memrick
Recorder - Njoku-Obi BartSince the inception of this council they have met at the same location, Immaculate Conception Parish, 810 West Chapel Hill Street. Durham. NC.
The men of this council live by the motto: WALKING THE WALK; TALKING THE TALK, attempting daily to enhance the Catholic experience.
COUNCIL 3498
BURLINGTON, NC
Grand Knight - J. J. Ryan
Chaplain - Fr. Eugene Livelesberger, Pastor
Deputy Grand Knight - M. E. Campbell
Chancellor- R. E. Moren
Warden - L. D. Grutsch
Recorder - C. B. Welsh, Jr
Financial- Secretary T. J. Sullivan
Treasurer- A. Schwitter
Lector - N. J. Faley
Advocate - D. McDonnell
Inside Guard - John Schoderbeck
Outside Guard- L. Marmorato
St. Pius Council 3498 was initiated into our Order on March 23, 1952 under the guidance of charter District Deputy Harry W. Clody. When this council first met they held their meetings at the old school Kindergarten building. They now meet at the Koury Social Center gym on the Blessed Sacrament parish grounds. The charter officers were:\St. Pius Council 3498 was formed at the suggestion of Father Livelesberger, then Pastor of Blessed Sacrament Church. The first meetings were held in facilities at the parish rectory and small school. Father Livelesberger offered the use of the parish kindergarten building. The building had not been in use and required much work. The new members renovated the facility at a cost of about $400.00. They then paid the parish $10.00 a month rent.
The early meetings focused on the usual activities of forming committees, soliciting ideas for events, how to help the parish, and encouraging each other to attend meetings and to not only support the events but to also take an active part.
The main activity the council undertook in the early years was to sponsor a fundraiser to help reduce the parish debt. This became a yearly activity for several years. One of the first highlights of the council was a visit from Bishop Waters. His Excellency was visiting the parish with a young priest from China and they both addressed the council.
Shortly after the council was formed, in 1952, Father Livelesberger suggested the council sponsor a Boy Scout Troop. However, there were not enough boys of scout age in the parish so Cub Pack #9 was formed. The council also sponsored several school baseball and basketball teams in the parks and recreation league and at the YMCA. This activity eventually was turned over to the Home School Association.
The most popular and profitable activity during this time was the Communion Breakfast which was held most every month. They also held Parish Retreats for the men and a Day of Adoration.
1953-The council received its first Star Council Award from the Supreme Council.
1954-The practice of naming a Knight of the Year began, and in cooperation with the Ladies Altar Society the council hosted a dinner at the Alamance Country Club for Father Livelesberger on the occasion of his 15th anniversary as a priest. This same year the council began its support of seminarians and of scheduling usher for the weekend Masses.
1955-Saw the council set out to erect road signs indicating the Mass schedule at Blessed Sacrament. The best that can be see from the council minutes the signs were never erected, but records there was discussions on this matter for the next four years. The first Red Cross Blood drive was held in 1956. During this year the council began to look for another meeting place. The parish was growing and a new school had been built. Now there was talk of a new church and the school hall was to be used as the temporary church.
From 1956 through 1958 the council struggled with membership, lack of funds, and poor attendance at meetings and social functions. Meetings were often held at a members house or at other local civic clubs. Much of the problem stemmed from the lack of a permanent meeting place and a constant turn over of membership. Many of the members were employed by the Western Electric Company and AT&T and were often transferred to other locations.
1959-The council established a Math award to be given to one of the graduates of the school. This year Father Livelesberger was transferred and Monsignor O'Brien was named Pastor. He also urged the council to form a Schout Troop. Since the Cub Pack had grown there were now a sufficient number of boys to form a Schout Troop. The Troop was in operation the next year. The first Mass for deceased members was said on Thanksgiving Day and the practice of saying a decade of the Rosary at the meeting was established.
1960-Monsignor O'Brien esta blished a Holy Name Society. Also this year the council found an interesting fundraiser thanks to Brother Ray Vetter (deceased). They sold toilet tissue! Apparently it did well.
1961-The first St. Patrick's dance was held. This activity continues today as an activity of the Tereasians supported by the Knights.
1962-The council officers discussed dissolving the council with the Supreme representative at the State Convention. At this point the minutes are very vague and often there is only a letter advising of a meeting place. In November 1964 the council became inactive.
1970-The council was reactivated through the efforts of Brother Sal Festa and some former members.
1971-Alter Servers were recognized by the council. The council also conducted a Morality in the Media drive at the local mall to stop the mailing of pornographic material to homes.
1972-The council provided a new flag pole and a flag to the grade school. They also set the second Tuesday of the month as the meeting night and they made a formal request to the parish for the use of the school hall.
1973-A Boy Scout Troop was organized and sponsored by the council for the mentally handicapped. This took place at the local Ralph Scoot Home. Brother Bill Sprague is the first Scout Master. the troop remained in operation till the mid 1980's. The council also became active in the "Keep Christ in Christmas" program. This was achieved by having displays in local stores, passing out literature and having an ad on a billboard.
1974-The Tootsie Roll Drive came to Burlington. Until this time the L.A.M.B. funds were provided with fund raisers or from the general council fund. This first drive grossed $1,153.00.
1976-A new council fund raiser was found. The selling of Citrus fruits replaced the selling of toilet paper.
1979-St Pius X council entered a live Nativity Float in the Graham Christmas Parade and the Fourth Degree provided the Honor Guard. The council has participated in this parade every year since. This year also saw the council fund raiser changed from the selling of citrus fruit to the selling of 20 pound bags of fertilizer.
1980-During the Lenten season Fourth Degree members of the council acted as leaders for the Stations of the Cross with assistance from council members. Parish Right to Life Committee and council members staff an information booth at the Alamance County Fair.
1981-Members of the council conducted a poetry and essay contest for the school children. They also worked with other parish groups to landscape the parish grounds.
1982-The 30th anniversary of the council. A tree was planted on the church grounds and marked with a bronze plaque in memory of deceased members. The council began participation in the Statewide Pilgrim Virgin Hour of Prayer and the Traveling Gavel program. The first official First Degree team was formed. Funds from L.A.M.B. were donated to Camp Greenleaves, a camp for mentally handicapped youth operated by the Burlington Parks and Recreation Department.
1984-Father Sanford, Pastor, suggesed to the council, placement of a Grotto to the Virgin Mary to be placed on the church grounds. Brother Joe Blihar reported his mother would be willing to donate the statue. No decision was made. Although no further mention is made in the minutes, there is a Grotto to the Virgin Mary on the church grounds.
1985-Members of the council volunteered to man the phones for the annual Jerry Lewis MDA telethon.
1986-Fifty members travelled to Washington, DC for the Right to Life March.
1987-The council had its first contact with the Celebration Singers. This is a group of Mentally Handicapped singers sponsored by Macedonia Lutheran Church. The council through Operation L.A.M.B. provided funding for this group to the present.
1988-Father Mensch from St. Martha Parish, Kentucky, spoke at Blessed Sacrament on Mission Sunday. Several members talked with Father after Mass and learned of a need for used clothing. For the next ten years the council conducted a Thanksgiving used clothing drive for the benefit of St. Martha. More than 35,000 pounds of clothing are collected.. The council also began its association with the Allied Churches Homeless shelter and Good Shepherd Kitchen.
1989-The council began participation in the State Adopt-a-Highway program and voted to buy robes for the First Degree Team. Governor Martin and a group of mentally handicapped citizens honored the Knights of Columbus at the Burlington Athletic Stadium for the Operation L.A.M.B. program
1990-This year the selling of poinsettias replaced the selling of fertilizer as the council fund raiser. The first annual Octoberfest was jointly sponsored by the Home School Association and the K of C.
1991-A pancake breakfast was started after the Sunday morning Mass. This is held six months per year. The Fourth Degree members chartered the Monsignor Francis K. O'Brien Assembly #2254.
1993-At the request of Father James Plavcan, Pastor, the council assisted with the refinishing of the church floor. The council agreed to assist the parish CYO (Catholic Youth Organization) raise funds so that all members may attend the World Youth Day in Denver. Several council members also served as chaperons for youth on the trip. This council also hosted the State Free-Throw contest and has done so 5 our of the last 7 years.
1994-St. Pius X Council hosted their first Third Degree.
1995-A portable Altar and Altar clothes were provided to Father Michael Lorentsen, Council Chaplain, for his use with the Campus Ministry at Elon College.
1996-1997-The council exceeds 100 members. A new social event is begun, the family Christmas party.
1998-A Memorial to the Unborn on the church property was erected. The council also holds a family parish picnic to coincide with the conclusion of the Summer Christian Fun week for the parish youth.
1999-The International Special Olympics was held in Raleigh, NC in June and the council was asked to spearhead the Torch Run through Burlington. A council member entered the seminary at St. Mary's in Baltimore, MD and asked the council for added support for those in need. The council held several raffles for extra funds and collected usable bed linens and towels to be sent to the seminarians at St. Mary's
2000-Forty seven members travelled to Washington, DC to participate in the Jubilee Pilgrimage at the Basilica of Our Lady. The State Free Throw contest was held this year at Elon College.
The council has stabilized at between 110 to 120 members. Problems continue with recruitment and retention. However, the council now has solid and proven activities in each of the five program areas. Social activities are varied and changing according to the response of the members. As with any council there are those ever present little problems but there is now a sound foundation and the future looks bright.
COUNCIL 3574
JACKSONVILLE, NC
The Father William O’Bryne Council 3574 in Jacksonville, NC received their charter from the Supreme Council on December 17, 1952.
The Charter Grand Knight was Michael O’Brien. Other charter officers were:
Chaplain - Father Ambrose F. Rohrbacher
Deputy Grand Knight - John J. Connolly
Chancellor - John F. Quinlan
Warden - Charles J. Lamy
Financial Secretary - Louis M. Ravel
Recording Secretary - Lester J. Hare
Treasurer - Russell M. Smith
Inside Guard - Anthony Pachula
Outside Guard - S. Martinelle
Trustees - Arthur E. Kindt
Leo J. Slavin
Lee DorseyWhen the council was first formed it held its meetings at Infant of Prague Church in Jacksonville. In the more recent years it has been holding its meetings at 11 East Drive, Jacksonville, NC.
Father William O’Bryne Council became a council under very trying circumstances. The State Deputy at the time discouraged the potential members from forming a council. This was due to the fact that the members were transitory in nature. The members persevered and became a council and were able to build their membership to about 300 members during the war years. This council supported the first black seminarian in North Carolina. The council has received more awards than any other council in North Carolina during several years of its existence.
COUNCIL 4464
KINSTON, NC
THE KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS SUPREME COUNCIL GRANTED A CHARTER FOR THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A COUNCIL IN KINSTON, NORTH CAROLINA ON SEPTEMBER 8, 1957. THE NAME OF THE COUNCIL WAS CHOSEN TO HONOR FATHER THOMAS A. WILLIAMS, PASTOR OF HOLY TRINITY CATHOLIC CHURCH IN THE 1940’S. FATHER WILLIAMS WAS ALSO THE NORTH CAROLINA STATE CHAPLAIN FOR SIX YEARS FROM 1935 THROUGH 1941. HE WAS ALSO NOTED FOR HIS GENEROSITY AND KINDNESS TO ANYONE NEEDING HELP, ESPECIALLY TO THE DISPLACED FAMILIES FROM WAR-TORN EUROPE AFTER WORLD WAR II.
JOE ARCHIE WAS INSTALLED AS THE CHARTER GRAND KNIGHT OF COUNCIL 4464 THE TWELIFTH COUNCIL CHARTERED IN NORTH CAROLINA SINCE THE FIRST COUNCIL WAS CHARTERED IN 1903.
THE COUNCIL WAS RE-INSTITUTED ON NOVEMBER 21, 1982 WITH THE SAME COUNCIL NUMBER AND NAME. EDWARD MUMM WAS INSTALLED AS THE GRAND KNIGHT AND THE COUNCIL CONTINUED TO MEET IN CHRIST THE KING SCHOOL UNTIL IT WAS SOLD. WHEN THE NEW PARISH CENTER WAS BUILT IN 1999 THE COUNCIL MOVED INTO ONE OF THE NEW CLASSROOMS.
OVER 150 CATHOLIC MEN HAVE BELONGED TO THE COUNCIL SINCE IT WAS FIRST CHARTED, THOUGH THE HIGHTEST NUMBER AT ANY ONE TIME WAS 58. DURING THE INITIAL CHARTER PRIOD SIX MEN SERVED AS GRAND KNIGHTS AND IN THE YEARS SINCE RE-INSTITUTING THE COUNCIL 145 MEN HAVE SERVED AS GRAND KNIGHTS. A LISTING OF THESE MEN IS INCLUDED AT THE END OF THIS HISTORY.
WHILE THE MANY ACCOMPLISHMENTS OF THE KNIGHTS OF COUNCIL 4464 ARE MUCH TOO NUMEROUS TO MENTION, SOME OF THE MAJOR ONES OVER THE YEARS ARE: OVER $70,000 RAISED FOR THE MENTALLY DISABLED; 17 YEARS OF WEEKLY ROSARY LED BY THE BY THE KNIGHTS; SPONSORED BLOODMOBILES; SUPPORTED SEMINARIANS; RAISED $2,275.00 AND MADE ARRANGEMENTS FOR A TERMINALLY ILL CHILD TO GO TO DISNEY WORLD; RAISED $750.00 FROM A SHRIMP DINNER FOR INTER CHURCH OUTREACH; DONATED $300.00 FOR AN EMERGENCY CALL SYSTEM TO AN EPILEPTIC WOMAN; DISTRIBUTED DONATED FOOD TO FLOOD VICTIMS; ORGANIZED AND RAN SOCCER CAMP FOR CHILDREN FOR 3 YEARS, RAN YEARLY BASKETBALL FREE-THROW CONTESTS FOR THE YOUTH; GAVE OUT VOCATION LITERATURE TO THE CCD CLASSES; PROVIDED MONEY FOR AND DISSEMINATED PRO LIFE LITERATURE, PROVIDED BANNERS FOR KEEP CHRIST IN CHRISTMAS BILLBOARDS; PROVIDED USHERS, CCD TEACHERS, LECTURERS, CANTORS, MAINTENANCE, PARISH AND FINANCIAL COUNCIL MEMBERS AND PALLBEARERS.
THERE WERE ALSO MANY SOCIALS SUCH AS RECEPTIONS FOR FIRST COMMUNICANTS, SPAGHETTI SUPPERS, BARBECUES, PANCAKE BREAKFASTS, FAMILY NGIHTS FOR DINING OUT, ST. PATRICK DAY AND VALENTINE DANCES, OCTOBERFESTS, MOTHERS DAYS LUNCHEONS AND GIFTS OF CARNATIONS AT THE MASSES AND ANNUAL PICNICS. MANY OF THESE WERE ATTENDED BY KNIGHTS AND THEIR SPOUSES FROM OTHER COUNCILS IN THE VICINITY AND EVEN STATE OFFICERS AT TIMES.
SOME OF THE AWARDS RECEIVED ARE: MOST IMPROVED COUNCIL, HONOR COUNCIL, DISTINGUISHED COUNCIL, STAR COUNCIL, 200% OVER MEMBVERSHIP GOAL, 175% OVER OPERATION LAMB GOAL, SCRAP BOOK AND OTHERS.
MOST OF THE ORIGINAL CHARTER MEMBERS ARE DECEASED AND 16 MEMBERS HAVE DIED SINCE THE COUNCIL WAS RE-INSTITUTED. THEY ARE REMEMBERED AT AN ANNUAL MEMORIAL MASS HELD EACH NOVEMBOR AND THEIR NAMES ARE INSCRIBED ON TWO PLAQUES MOUNTED IN THE COUNCIL CHAMBERS SO THAT THEY WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN.
PAST GRAND KNIGHTS OF COUNCIL 4464
JOSEPH P. ARCHIE 1957-1958
JOSEPH M. DESMOND 1958-1959
WILLIAM E. PETIT 1959-1960
RICHARD F. CAVANAUGH 1960-1961
MARK A. DAILEY 1961-1962
JAMES E. CALLAHAN, JR 1962-1963
(UNKNOWN) 1963-1964
EDWARD F. MUMM 1982-1983
ANTHONY CUOMO 1983-1984
PATRICK C. HOWELL 1984-1985
CHARLES F. KIENAST 1985-1987
JAMES B. DEL PAPA 1987-1988
RICHARD M. STEARNS 1988-1989
CLARENCE G. VIERLING 1989-1990
PHILLIP RYALS 1990-1991
ANTHONY CUOMO 1991-1992
JOHN BUSH 1992-1993
ANDREW BJORSEN 1993-1995
LARRY VARNER 1995-1997
EMILE ARTUS 1997-1999
ROBERT HINSON 1999-2001
JOSEPH COLAMAIO 2001-2002COUNCIL 4507
HIGH POINT, NC
The Bishop Hafey Council was formed on December 1, 1957 in High Point, NC. The charter District Deputy was William Frawley. The other charter officers were:
Grand Knight - John F. (Jack) Werstlein
Chaplain - Father Michael A. Carey
Deputy Grand Knight - Francis X. (Frank) Schmidley
The members of the council have not been able to locate the original records to ascertain other charter officers.The Council has met at Immaculate Heart of Mary School since it began. At the beginning they met in the Library and later started to meet in the 1st grade classroom.
This very active council claims as its accomplishments over the years the following:
The host of four State Conventions, 1965, 1974, 1985 and 1994.
Three State Chaplains have come from this council: Father Carey, Father Peter Tomaino and Father Martin Carter.
In 1986 the Fred Corley family was named State Family of the Year and then the International Family of the Year.
It has earned Star Council on 15 occasions and was the Best Large Council in 1985.
It has participated in the North Carolina L. A. M. B. project for 25 consecutive years. This is the program that provides for the mentally handicapped children in the state.
Their long time member Jim Neely was elected State Deputy in 1993-1995; was appointed by the Supreme Board of Directors to serve as Vice-Supreme Master of the DeSoto Province for 1995-1999.
Achieved 200 member status in 1993.
It has sponsored an annual ARC dance for all retarded citizens since 1990.
This council aids the Maryfield Nursing Home on serveral projects each year.
Supreme Knight Virgil Dechant visits this council's home during the 1985 State Convention.
A gala celebration was held to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the council in 1997. The honor guest were 7 charter members in attendance.
Father Michael Carey was the most instrumental individual in forming council 4507. Father Peter Tomaino served 10 years as Editor of the council bulletin - HI KNIGHT- which was named best newspaper in the state for several years.
NUMBER 4600
ROCKY MOUNT, NC
Father James Schomber Council 4600 was initiated on May 4, 1958 in Rocky Mount, NC.
The State Officers at this time were:
State Deputy - Harry W. Clody
State Chaplain - Rev. J. Paul Byron
Immediate Past State Deputy - Charles F. Powers, Jr.
State Secretary - Raymond H. Rohlfs
State Treasurer - Albert B. Romanus
State Advocate - Joseph J. Stoffa
State Warden - Joseph B. FoxThe North Carolina State Convention was held in Charlotte, NC in 1958
NUMBER 4660
WILSON, NC
Council 4660 was established on September 8, 1958 when the Supreme Council granted them a Charter.
CHARTER MEMBERS
Albert Thomas Grand Knight
Rev. John Bruening Chaplain
John Constable
Robert Ferris
Charles Hussey*
Joe Kannan
Simon Lawrence
Charlie Thackston
Allan G. Thomas*
Vincent Thomas
Rev. Albert Todd
J. A. VerHeggen
*active members currentlyThe council now meets at the Forest Hills Club House. In the early days they met at St. Therese School Hall.
SOME OF THE MAJOR ACCOMPLISHMENTS OF COUNCIL NUMBER 4660
State Officer-Matthew Bird, State Secretary, 1963-1964; State Deputy 1966-1967
Home council for current State Deputy Bob Singer
Contributions of over $250K through 25 years of Operation LAMB Program
Golden Knight of the Year awarded to Joe Rodre 1999
Family of Year awarded to Dr. Gene Nemechek and family in 1992
International Family of the Year runner-ups went to the Nemechek family 1992
Family of the Year awarded to Robert Watson and family 1996
Our most senior in terms of years as a K of C member is don Michaud initiated in 1st degree, November 1956
St. Therese Church built and consecrated May 1989
North Carolina State convention held in Wilson, NC 1965NUMBER 5487
GOLDSBORO, NC
Msgr. Arthur Freeman Council 5487 was chartered in 1964. The council meets
at St. Mary’s school. The current officers of the council are:
Grand Knight - Frank DeLorenzo
Chaplain - Father Thomas Narris
Deputy Grand Knight - Rick McCormack
Chancellor - Marty Fine
Financial Secretary - James Mayros
Treasurer - Joseph Underwood
Recorder - James KennedyThe council is very proud of its accomplishments in the following area:
PROJECT LAMB RSVP – SUPPORTING 3 SEMINARIANS
SPECIAL OLYMPICS TUTORS FOR ST, MARY’S SCHOOL
TRIP TO BALLPARK FOR ALTER SERVERS
SUPPORT FOR ALL PARISH ACTIVITIES
ALTER SERVERS AND PALL BEARERS FOR FUNERALS.
(formerly CATAWBA)
COUNCIL NUMBER 6451
HICKORY, NC
St. Aloysius Council 6451 was initiated into the Order on March 25, 1973 under District Deputy Robert Frurla. The charter officers of this council were:
Grand Knight - Walter Booth
Chaplain - Rev. Msgr Liveffeurger
Deputy Grand Knight - Bernie McCann
Chancellor - Gerry Seipz
Recorder - Kent Vaggerty
Financial Secretary - Bill Roark
Treasurer - Burton Donald
Lecturer - Joe Lo Picero
Advocate - Ron Carney
Warden - Howard Taggart
Inside Guard - Don Waltz
Outside Guard - Don Dupupins
Trustee - E. Hostetter
Trustee - Jack O’Brien
Trustee - William FlemmingThis council first met at the St Aloysius Activity Center. They now meet at the Knights of Columbus Hall. The members of this council are proud of their LAMB record. In 28 years they have grossed over 196,566 to benefit the mentally handicap of their area. The councils in the following cities have been spun off from this council: Morganton, Lenoir, Newton, Denver and Statesville.
NUMBER 6528
SOUTHERN PINES, NC
Sandhills Council was formed on December 2, 1973 under District Deputy William Todd. The council has met since their beginning at the St. Anthony of Padua Parish hall.
The Charter Officers of the council were:
Grand Knight - W. Burke Atkinson
Chaplain - Msgr. John A. Brown
Deputy Grand Knight - James B. Hogg
Chancellor - Robert J. Becker
Recorder - Stanley Hyrowski
Treasurer - James T. Reilley
Advocate - John T. Tierney
Warden - David R. Raber
Inside Guard - Dante S. Montesanti
Outside Guard - Joseph Clohossey
Trustee - John F. Buchholz
Trustee - William C. Hoffman
Trustee - Barry Leslie
Since 1975 the council has held a very successful L. A. M. B. operation. From 1976 to 1983 they operated a bingo program that contributed over $100,000.00 to help pay off the debt on the new church building. A 15 year mortgage was retired in 7 1/2 years. The bingo program continues with a monthly payment going to the church with other proceeds being used for other charitable activities. The RSVP program that provides support to seminarians is a major beneficiary of the council charity funds.In 1976 the council conducted a most successful State golf tournament. It was the most successful held up until that time. The format used for this tournament is still for the annual event. In 1990 the council formally adopted "Adopt-A-Kid" program. They have six schools with over 100 EMH children. Brothers of the council help teach at least once a week, and have sponsors for each child who purchase birthday and Christmas gifts to be given out at parties. A part of the L. A. M. B. project goes to these children and their needs.
Charter Members
W. B. Atkinson
S. Hyrowski*
G.E. Bauer
J. W. Lashley*
R. J. Becker
J. P. Lashley
Msgr. J. H. Brown
D. P. Leary
J. F. Buchholz
Dr. H. B. Leslie*
Dr. R. E. Carey
D. S. Montesanti
J. E. Clohessey
W. S. Oakley*
F. F. Daly
D. R. Raber
J. A. Daly
J. T. Reilly
D. A. Drexel*
R. H. Rounsefell
J. B. Grambell
H. L. Sain
G. L. Gross
Dr. A. G. Siege
C. C. Headen
H. G. Thompson*
V. T. Headen*
Dr. J. Y. Tierney*
J. G. HammerJ. J. Tighe*
W. C. Hoffman*
S. Van Camp*
J. B. Hogg
M. Walsh, Jr.**Present member
COUNCIL NUMBER 6600
GREENVILLE, NC
John Ivey Smith Council 6600 in Greenville, NC received their charter from the Supreme Council on June 9, 1074. Forty five (45) men were charter members, including two priests, Rev. H.C. Mulholl and Rev. M.F. Spillane.
The charter officers of this council were:
Grand Knight - Tom Hanifer
Deputy Grand Knight - Kevin Cunningham
Chancellor - Hugh Carrol
Treasurer - Debert Rascoe
Warden - Milton Jenkins
Financial Secretary - Tom Keith
Advocate - Joe Pellegrini
Inside Guard - Frank Flower
Outside Guard - Bill EllingtonCOUNCIL 6648
HAVELOCK, NC
On January 9, 1975 a charter was issued to a group of 47 Catholic men for the purpose of establishing a Knights of Columbus council in Havelock, NC. This council took the name of "Msgr. Frank J. Howard, Council #6648" The council was named in honor of the founder of the Annunciation Parish in Havelock. The Charter Grand Knight was Louis J. Realini and the Charter Chaplain was the Rev. J. J. Harper.
Some notable highlights of the accomplishments of this council over the years include:
Star Council 1976-1977; 1978-1979; 1981-1982; 1987-1988; 1988-1989; 1990-1991;
1996-1997.The council has earned other awards, both from the State and Supreme Councils.
On November 12, 1995, the Msgr. Frank J. Howard Council dedicated their new council home in memory of the PGK Edward J. Stein. This event
was the culmination of over three years of hard work by the council members. The council assumed control of a condemned building on the parish grounds and totally renovated the building.
The council also sponsored the Bishop Vincent S. Waters Columbian Squires Circle # 2730. This circle was chartered on October 6, 1977 but has since dissolved at an unknown date.
Grand Knights of Council # 6648
1975 Louis J. Realini
1975-1977 Angelo Battista
1977-1979 Ralph H. Provost
1979-1980 Melvin D. Wetzel
1980-1981 Daniel L. Farster
1982-1984 Edward J. Stein
1984-1985 Pasquale Wojciechowski
1985-1986 Albert J. Plisko
1986-1987 Richard M. Young
1987-1989 John M. Vislavsky
1989-1990 Herman J. Dehring
1990-1991 Juan M. Gonzales
1991-1992 Neal A. Conners
1992-1993 Dale Kitchin
1993-1994 Gary Hullopeter
1994-1995 Peter Zabita
1995-1997 Pasquale Wojciechowski
1997-1999 Stephen G. McVickerDeceased Knights of Council # 6648
Robert Barrera Marty Boone
George Burgess Arthur J. Falk
Samual Fones Frank M. Matakonis
James McGrath William McGrath
Benjamin Nall Albert Opoenshaw
PGK Albert Plisko Ralph Robaland
Albert Salem James W. Seigh
PGK/PFN Edward J. Stein John C. Stone"May they Rest in Peace"
CHARTERED MEMBERS OF COUNCIL 6648
R. G. Allman - G. D. McLaughlin - R. A. Barrera
T. M. Battista - A. D. Openshaw - M. K. Boone
G. L. Burgess - R. H. Provost - A.J. Butina
A. C. Clarke - L. J. Realini - A. S. Clemenic
G. S. Crank - A. M. Salem - J. J. Dargan
I. E. Garcia - F. W. Schwarz - Rev. J. J. Harper
J. M. Kelleher - R. J. Spillane - T. P. Kelly
J. C. Lashley - M. D. Wetzel - V. J. McBride
E. M. O'Shaughnessy - A. Battista - A. T. Oates
A. R. Openshaw - A. J. Bourgeois - A. J. Plisko
J. J. Rachide - R. E. Campbell - R. J. Radomski
R. O. Robillard - J. A. Conroy - E. Rudzih, Sr
O. F. Schraml - D. J. Pudzinski - C. F. Schwab
J. W. Seigh - E. C. Johnson - J. B. Sondys
H. H. Strunk - R. K. Kirk - D. C. Von Rump
L. F. White - D. L. McEvoyCOUNCIL NUMBER 6650
CARY, NC
Msgr. Michael A. Carey received its charter from the Supreme Council on March 9, 1975. At this time the District Deputy was Bill Waldorf. The council has always held their meetings at St. Michael's Parish hall. During its existence this council has received many awards and accolades. Major of these awards was the Star Council award for the 1983-1984 Columbian year while Pat Donovan was the Grand Knight. During this year they also received the Most Improved Council Award. In subsequent years they received the Star Council Award under Grand Knights Richard McGuiness, Tom Eifler and Paul White. In 1994 they were awarded the Best Large Council Award in the State under Grand Knight Tom Eifler. From the early 1990's to 1998 the council increased their membership from about 125 members to 250 members at the current time.
Charter Council Officers
Grand Knight Frank Falco
Champlain Msgr. F. A. Koch
Deputy Grand Knight Ray E. Snyder
Chancellor Vince C. Kopp
Recorder Joseph W. James
Financial Secretary John J. Castranio
Treasurer Walter G. Schaffer, Jr.
Advocate Charles H. Evans, Sr.
Warden Albert Cudney
Inside Guard John Brown
Outside Guard Martin Fox
Trustee Three Years Joseph Zaytoun
Trustee Two Years Jim Hirsch
Trustee One Year Bryant MillerCharter Members
C. D. Baley - D. J. Maes
J. S. Ridella - G. J. Kriz
J. L. Kinane - G. W. Haubert, Jr.
K. J. Zobel - D. J. Fortin
J. B. Mersch - M. G. Evans
D. G. Belofski - H. B. Costello
R. R. Soller - A. M. Andruzzi
G. Tierney - G. K. Worsley
A. Zeman - J. J. Rohman
T. G. Weaver - V. P. Reusing
F. J. Toth - M. Garrity
J. V. Sullivan - J. P. Dombrowski
L. B. Petersohn - N. H. Brown
T. Milligan - J. D. PachutaCOUNCIL 6700
GASTONIA, NC
Council 6700 received their charter from the Supreme Council on June 1, 1975. At that time Charles W. Smith was the District Deputy and the Charter Grand Knight of St. Gregory Council was Julius A. Dalpiaz.
CHARTER OFFICERS
Chaplain - Rev. Bernard Rosswob, OSB
Deputy Grand Knight - John H. Rielley
Chancellor - Bruce Wofford
Warden - Alfred Santoro
Recorder - James Keaney
Financial Secretary - Gregory Putnam
Treasurer - Guy PickeThe council has met at St. Michael's since its inception. At first at the school and presently at the Parish Center. During the council's first year of LAMB they collected $2,968.00. Since 1981 gross collections have only been below $10,000.00 once and the best year was 1991 when $21,728.00 was collected. The total council collections through 1998 is $301,452.00. The council's first major council activity was the restoration of St. Joseph's Church in Mt. Holly. St. Joseph is the oldest Catholic Church in the state and had not been occupied for many years. Members refurbished gravesites and other Church related properties. After the work was completed the Bishop held a Mass at the church. Since then Council 11076 has been keeping the Church in repair.
On June 1, 2000 the council celebrated its 25th anniversary. A gala affair was held at the Gaston Country Club with the State Deputy in attendance.
COUNCIL 6717
SANFORD, NC
This council received its charter from the Supreme Council on September 7, 1975. The Charter Officers of the council were:
John Hergenroeder - Grand Knight
Father James P. Keaney - Chaplain
Ben Barski - Deputy Grand Knight
Bill Nielson - ChancellorMeetings have been held St. Stephen Social Hall since the council was formed. Some of the accomplishments that this council is proud of are:
Harvest Moon Ball-1974 Fall parish dance.
Community Day Fair-1976-proceeds going towards youth activities.
Operation LAMB-since 1976-The first year the council grossed $820.00
Fellowship golf tournament since 1977 with St Thomas Church.
Working to re-locate Vietnamese families-since 1977
Selling fruit from Texas as council fund raiser-1977
Started St. Patrick Day dance. Proceeds to help a seminarians-1978
Started wood cutting raffle and fuel for the elderly-1979
Helped construct a new parish hall and classrooms-1982
Fr. Spillane, Chaplain of the council, awarded Chaplain of the Year-1984
Started golf tournament for Hospice of Lee County-1986
On several occasions we have hosted the North Carolina State Council K of C golf tournament. The last was in 1999.
The council works in harmony with the parish and the priest. Many projects are still in effect to this day. Many of our members serve on the parish board, as Lectures at Mass and with the youth group. We help to do maintenance around our church grounds. Most of all to help one another when called upon to do so.
COUNCIL NUMBER 6970
EDEN/REIDSVILLE, NC
Immaculate Mary Council 6970 was formed on August 21, 1977. When this council was first formed they met at St. Joseph of the Hills in Eden, NC. They now meet at Holy Infant Church in Reidsville, NC
COUNCIL NUMBER 7024
SWANSBORO, NC
Father Vincent J. Mahoney Council was formed on January 22, 1978. The founding District Deputy was Joel B. Sondys. The council meets at St. Mildred Church hall. The charter officers of this council were:
Joseph J. Stoffa - Grand Knight
Father Robert W. Wilkin - Chaplain
Harold Mayo - Deputy Grand Knight
Charles J. Tour Noux - Financial Secretary
Robert O'Bryan - Chancellor
Maurice E. Cox - Recorder
George E. Albertine - Treasurer
Melvin Shook - Advocate
Timothy J. Albertine - Warden
Trustee 3 - Years Paul Paquette
Trustee 2 - Years Donald J. Broussard
Trustee 1 - Year Walter J. GaryThe highlights of this council's achievements have been the inauguration of the council newsletter "The Voice" which came into existence on June 5, 1978. The council collected over $50,000.00 with the L.A.M.B. operation. Their strong family life advocacy with social and spiritual activities which produces a quality environment for the council. Father Vincent J. Mahoney Council members are involved with their church as Ushers, Lectors, Eucharistic Ministers and with the maintenance of the church grounds. These Brothers also participate in The Special Olympic activities with donations and volunteer hours. This council feels that their retired men provide a group who can contribute to the community and be examples of Columbianism and Catholic life.
NUMBER 7152
STATESVILLE, NC
ST. JAMES COUNCIL 7152 WAS CHARTERED ON JULY 9, 1978 WITH THIRTY -FOUR MEMBERS. NINE OF THESE MEMBERS ARE STILL ACTIVE WITH THE COUNCIL. OVER THE PAST TWENTY -TWO YEARS THE MEMBERSHIP HAS GROWN TO SIXTY MEMBERS. MEETINGS HAVE BEEN HELD ALMOST CONTINUOUSLY IN THE PARISH CENTER.
INCLUDED AMONG THE MANY AWARDS AND RECONGNITION THAT THE COUNCIL HAS EARNED OVER THE YEARS ARE THE FATHER McGIVNEY AWARD; HONOR COUNCIL; STAR COUNCIL AND THE BEST STATE CONVENTION SCRAPE BOOK; VARIOUS L.A.M.B. AWARDS AND HAS HOSTED A STATE CONVENTION.
THE COUNCIL IS VERY PROUD OF THE FACT THAT THEY ARE CLOSING IN ON COLLECTION $100,000.00 FOR THE L.A.M.B. PROGRAM. THE HOPE TO REACH THIS GOAL BY THEIR 25TH ANNIVERSARY IN 2003.
NUMBER 7184
HENDERSONVILLE, NC
Immaculate Conception Council 7184 was formed on October 29, 1978 in Hendersonville, NC. The charter Grand Knight was George Philipp. The council meets at the lower level of Immaculate Conception Church.
Some of the highlights of this council’s activities are: the initiation of the Annual Shield Awards Program in 1992. The program honors selected police officers, firefighters and EMS personnel in the City of Hendersonville and Henderson County.
The council acts as an agent for the parish in the quarterly food drive. This drive supports the local Interfaith Assistance Ministry, which assist those who are in need of food and shelter.
NUMBER 7186
APEX, NC
Council 7186 received their charter from the Supreme Council on August 21, 2002. The council meets at St. Mary Magdalene’s church on the 1st Thursday of each month at 7:30 PM.
The officers for the 2002-2003 Columbian year are:
Grand Knight - Rob Prewitt
Chaplain - Fr. Donald Staib
Deputy Grand Knight - Mike Snyder
Chancellor - Bob Cadran
Warden - Bob Annunziata
Financial Secretary - Tom Berthiaume
Treasurer - Frank DeMaria
Recorder - Patrick Caporale
Advocate - Michael Munroe
Inside Guard - Richard Phillips
Outside Guard - Fuji Daussin
Trustee 3 - Years Wally Willard
Trustee 2 - Years Bill MacRae
Trustee 1 - Year Richard NewnsDIRECTORS
Programs - Mike Snyder
Membership - Bob Annunziata
Church - Russ Goff
Youth - Lee Wilson
Newsletter Editor - Dick EnglishNUMBER 7225
LUMBERTON, NC
L. P. Holley Council 7225 located in Lumberton, NC received its charter from the Supreme Council on February 24, 1979. The North Carolina State Convention was held in Greensboro, NC.
The State Officers in 1979 were:
State Deputy - Joseph H. Dick
State Chaplain - Rev. Joseph A. Kerin
Immediate Past State Deputy - Ernest I. King
State Secretary - William A. Ries
State Treasurer - William H. Waldorf
State Advocate - Bernard P. McCann
State Warden - John D. OrganNUMBER 7232
ROANOKE RAPIDS, NC
John B. McGuirk Council 7232 received its charter on January 28, 1979. The charter officers were:
Grand Knight - Dr. Julian Hoffman
Chaplain Father - John B. McGuirk
Chancellor - George Mosley
Treasure - r Alfred D’Ottario
Warden - Jim MyerThe council has meet at the parish hall since its inception. Council 7232 is proud of the fact that it has install a memorial to the unborn and victims of abortion. The council also has an annual Giving Tree in which gifts are provided the needy of the parish and county. The Council does many duties for the Church, like repairs and upkeep of the parish buildings and grounds. The Council has fish fry every Friday during lent. It is involved with many
fund raisers for the parish and community. We participate in the Christmas Parade each year and pass out tootsie rolls around 8000. Our Council stated with the Rocky Mount Council # 4600 several years before we received our charter. Brother Jesse T. Moore started the 4th degree Assembly here in Roanoke Rapids in the late 1990’s.
COUNCIL 7259
NEWTON GROVE, NC
Council 7259 received its charter from the Supreme Council on March 4, 1979. At this time Everette Lamczyk was the District Deputy that guided the formation of the council. The Charter Officers of the council were:
Grand Knight - Elasta L. Smith
Chaplain - Fr. Allen Jacobs
Deputy Grand Knight - Homer Marshall
Chancellor - Billy Glover
Warden - Dr. Hamp Hubbard
Recorde - Bob Kivel
Financial Secretary - Tom Wright
Treasurer - Frank Castellucci
Advocate - Tom West
Trustee - Anthony Godwin
Trustee - George Godwin
Trustee - J. L. DardenWhen first organized Council 7259 met at Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish Hall. Later they met at St. Mary's Hall where they still meet on the 2nd and 4th Mondays at 7:30 PM
Dr. John Carr Monk Council has had some very successful events during their existence. In September 1985 they sponsored Mule Days Bar-B-Q chicken dinner which was a major fund raiser for the council good works. In 1986 Council 9001 in Dunn, NC spun off this council and in 1996 Council 11848 did the same. Since 1981 the council has collected over $100,000.00 during their LAMB Operation in Johnston, Harnett and Sampson Counties. The council has adopted a one (1) mile stretch of I-40 north of Newton Grove and clean it every 4 to 6 months. Through the CFCA this council adopted Raymark Panerio of the Philippines Islands and support him with a monthly donation of $20.00 and this commenced in 1997.
BIOGRAPHY OF DOCTOR JOHN CARR MONK
(Council namesake)
Monsignor Michael A. Irwin, pastor of the Catholic Church at Newton Grove, NC from 1904 to 1928 proudly wrote the story of Dr. Monk for the readers of the Columbian magazine in June 1926, entitling his article, "A Thousand Catholics From One Man's Faith." Even earlier (1890), His Eminence James Cardinal Gibbons of Baltimore had published the story of this doctor's faith, and actions on behalf of the church, for a national audience, in the pages of the United States Catholic Historical Magazine. And the inspiring story was made known in the secular papers of North Carolina on several occasions, including the articles by Hoover Adams (in both the Greensboro Daily News as well as in the Charlotte Observer in 1939. Monsignor Frederick A. Koch also produced an article in the Raleigh News and Observer (1947). The scholarly work of Charles H. Bowman, The North Carolina Historical Review (1973) provided an important contribution to the story of Doctor Monk. Nationally as well as locally, the story of Dr. Monk has inspired many for over a century.
John Carr, the second son of Archibald and Harriet (Hargrove) Monk was born in northern Sampson County on February 19, 1827, and was educated in Sampson and Moore Counties. At the age of 19, the young student became a teacher, and for four years taught in the schools of Sampson County. In 1850, when he was 23, John Carr began to attend the University of Pennsylvania, from which he graduated as a medical doctor in 1852. He returned to practice in Sampson, Johnston and Wayne Counties. He married Euphemia Alice Eason of nearby Meadow in 1855, and established his home in Newton Grove. He was an active Mason, Methodist, and local leader in the Whig political party (which was opposed to Southern secession). He is believed to have rendered medical assistance to the wounded following the nearby Battle of Bentonville (March 17-19 1865). After the war, he became a Republican, ran a large farming operation, continued to practice medicine, opened a pharmacy and dry goods store, was postmaster for a time, and was elected Trustee of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
When the Methodist Church in North Carolina voted to evict the black members of the church in 1869, Monk objected, and withdrew from active membership. Furthermore, he, with the help of his brother Rufus, built a school for the black community, where he taught. In January of 1871, his brother Julius showed him a copy of the New York Herald (dated January 2, 1871), which had arrived as packing material in a shipment of supplies for Monk's drugstore. It contained a sermon of the Archbishop of New York, John McCloskey, on the nature of the true Church of Jesus Christ. Impressed by the vision of such a church--one, holy, and apostolic--John Carr Monk wrote a letter of inquiry, addressed "To Any Catholic Priest/Wilmington, NC". The letter arrived into the hands of the young Bishop Gibbons, who sent books and began a correspondence with the doctor.
By October of 1871, Monk and his family had made the decision to become Catholics, and were baptized into the faith on October 27, at St. Thomas' Church in Wilmington, NC. Returning to Newton Grove, the new Catholic family encountered some hostility land opposition, which they strove to overcome by patient instruction and good example. the first visit by a priest, Father Mark S. Gross, in January 1872, was soon followed by monthly visits, during which Mass was celebrated at Monk's home, instruction given to inquirers, and candidates baptized, including John Thomas Gregory (in the Spring of 1872, "late minister of the Campbellite sect" Dr. Monk soon donated land on which he constructed a church, which was consecrated by Bishop Gibbons on August 11, 1874. The doctor died suddenly, at the age of 50, on September 10, 1877, and was buried in the church cemetery, hailed on his tombstone as the "Cornelius" of the neighborhood" (Arts 10: 1-48)
COUNCIL 7343
CHARLOTTE, NC
St. John Neumann Council received its charter from the Supreme Council on May 20, 1979. When they first started the Brothers met at St. John Neumann Catholic Church. In 1993 they purchased their own council building in a partnership with 4th Degree Assembly Lawrence C. Newman Assembly Number 2208. This building is known as the Columbus Swim and Tennis Club located at 8451 Idlewild Road, Charlotte.
The Charter Officers for this council were:
Grand Knight - Ed F. Comiskey
Chaplain - Msgr L. C. Newman
Deputy Grand Knight - Al Commelitti
Financial Secretary - Joe KlugThe founding District Deputy was John Riley.
Since its inception this council has donated approximately one million dollars to St. John Newmann Catholic Church. In 1995 they erected a memorial to the unborn on the St. John Newmann Church grounds.
COUNCIL 7406
MOORESVILLE, NC
St. Therese Council 7406 was formed in 1979 in Mooresville, NC. There were 30 charter members :
R. P. Barer - R.A. Goodman - R. E. White
R. P. Barber, - J J. W. Harriss - T. D. Morton
G. C. Bailey, Jr. - R. F. Groshon - F, J. Mullally
L. Z. Coombe - E.E. Gunthner - G. G. Murphy, Jr
W.V. Campana - J. W. Henry - R. A. Musa
J. L. Callahan- J. W. Hoke - J. T. Palmer
A. Dalcoe - L. M. Hoppe - R. E. Powell
M. Dalcoe - W. R. Jones - M. J. Sabella
E. Fortier - C. L. Mack - B. L. Sherrill
R. Gilvary, SJ - B. F. Milstead - C. L. SwedenbergThirty men and their wives, headed by Mike Sabella gathered at the Mooresville Country Club to celebrate the first installation of officers. Since then over 20 years have passed and members have come and gone, but St. Therese Council 7406 is alive and stronger than ever.
There are too many projects, fund raisers and social functions to name individually, however let us take a trip down memory lane and recall a few warm memories.
The first meetings of Council 7406 were held in the CCD building located next to the Church on Main Street. The floors creaked as you passed from room to room, but nevertheless, it was home. This was also the place that more than one Communion Breakfast took place after the 9:00 AM Mass. There were two ovens, but most of the cooking had to be done on a grill outside the back door in the parking lot due to old wiring in the building. One thing not taken into consideration in the Autumn were the falling leaves that always seems to find their way to the grill. Half the battle was diverting their path as they fell.
A project that kept the Knights busy was Friday night Bingo. This started in the old State Theater that was located downtown on Main Street. You actually had to walk through a T-shirt shop to get to the bingo tables. John Swedenberg graciously allowed us to use the building. This was the only bingo hall that had a slanted floor and a roof that leaked, but it was a start.
Soon afterwards, the Knights moved a little farther north on Main Street and rented a building that became known as the "Bingo Hall". This was the place that housed not only bingo, but wedding receptions, Super Bowl parties, and the annual children's Christmas party which is a tradition at St. Therese that still lives today. With the help of several dedicated Knights and spouses, Bingo earned a handsome sum and enabled Council 7406 to make a healthy contribution toward the building of the existing St. Therese on Brawley School Road.
Our council never had trouble having social events. It started with poker nights in the old CCD building and continued to Ladies night out at a variety of restaurants in the area including the original Western Steer on Highway 150. There were parties at the VFW on Highway 801, cookouts and pool parties at member's houses and dances including ringing in 1980 with a New Years Eve party at the Mooresville Country Club.
Along with all the fun at social activities, one of our strong suits was raising money for charity. Operation LAMB has grown from a few members handing out Tootsie Rolls at grocery stores, high school football games, and the ABC store, to a colossal effort at Wal-Mart, K-Mart, several grocery stores and more locations. Last year over $12,000.00 was raised for the mentally and physically challenged in our community.
Our largest fund raiser to date took place at the Charlotte Motor Speedway this past May, when we drove shuttle buses for race fans. We raised over $6,000.00 in a two week period.
One year an idea was spurred to set up a hot dog stand during a downtown festival. This was a grand idea. With enthusiasm Knights gathered to cook and serve hot dogs and soft drinks. Father Novotny made a batch of his famous flame thrower chili and we were ready to serve the masses. One problem, the masses must have forgotten how to get to downtown Mooresville. As we cooked pack after pack of hot dogs and hear the words that still ring in the air around any Knight's function that involves cooking, TOO MORE PACKS!." we discovered that we were alone for the most part enjoying chili dogs and a few laughs.
The Knights have a great rapport with the altar servers and have taken several groups to the old "Crocket Park" in Charlotte for an O's game. The Charlotte Hornets were also the target of altar server outings sponsored by the Knights. We must mention at this point that very few children were lost during outings. We must pat ourselves on the back for an exceptionally high return rate.
When our parish was ready to move into our present home, the Knights were there to lend several hands. Preparing the grounds for the dedication, erecting the cross on top of the church, working to paint the new rectory, building the playground and funding the equipment, building a walkway to the building, and having the 4th degree preside in full regalia were just a few of the projects that surrounded the new church.
Council 7406 has had numerous St. Patrick's Day parties in the new church. The annual "Fish Fry" around Easter has also become a tradition. One especially memorable fish fry was the one when the cookers caught fire in the barbecue pit. Bob Groshan, one of our retired fire chiefs calmly walked into the kitchen and announced, "We have a fire." At his insistence, we ran out and put out the fire. We then repaired one of the cookers and prepared fish for everyone who was there. We are proud to report that there have been no fires at our fish fry in at least three years.
Other activities and functions include award winning blood drives, headed by Chuck Spanhaurer, cooking for the parish picnic and recognizing the altar servers.
This is a council that has amassed many awards in its history. In our participation of the K of C bowling tournament, we were awarded the "Hands Award". To this day, we have no idea how we achieved such a prestigious award...or what it is for.
We were the council of the year for the State of North Carolina in 1989. I'm sure Father Michael J. McGiveny is looking down from heaven along with the deceased members of our council with smiles and pride. We have come a long way from the days of the old CCD building until now.
GRAND KNIGHTS OF COUNCIL 7406
MIKE SABELLA
GEORGE BAILEY, JR
BOB JONES
MIKE HEINEN
JOHN SWEDENBERG
HAROLD BUTLER
TED BENELL
BOB MUSA
PAUL CUNNINGHAM
JIM McINTYRE
JOHN BORDONARO
MIKE LEAHY
CHUCK SPANHAURER
MATTHEW REILLYCOUNCIL 7450
CONCORD, NC
St. James Council 7450 was established in July 1979. The following were the chartered members of this council:
J. S. Armontrout* - W. L. Furr, Jr.* - R. W. Perry
R. W. Beaver - R. A. Kachmarik* - E. F. Shaver, II
Dr. G. A. Binder - R. J. Garifo* - L. G. Shaver
W. E. Blacklin - Rev. G. F. Kelly - W. A. Shaver
W. W. Bluto - A. J. Klimas - W. D. Stanley
R. J. Borsuk*- M. J. Mastrianni* - Dr. V. L. Stotka
R. M. Clark - E. McKay* - E. A. Vorwerk*
A. M. Curl* - D. J. McManus - J. P. Walsh*
T. J. Davis- R. H,. Miller - E. S. Wickerson*
K. M. Dempsey - E. R. Millward - C. J. Willliams*
E. F. Fox* - J. J. O’Brien* - T. J. Williams*
*15 members that are presently active with the council
PAST GRAND KNIGHTSTERM /NAME
July 1979 – June 1980 Tommy J. Williams
July 1980 – June 1982 Kevin M. Dempsey
July 1982 – June 1983 Dr. Victor L. Stotka
July 1983 – June 1984 Alan A. Baldwin
July 1984 – June 1987 John J. Tierney
July 1987 – June 1988 Kevin M. Dempsey
July 1988 – June 1990 Richard A. Borsuk
July 1990 – June 1992 Robert A. Kachmarik
July 1992 – June 1994 John A. Landry
July 1994 – June 1996 Jeffery M. Stampfli
July 1996 – June 1997 David M. Wellman
July 1997 – June 1998 Robert P. Klimas
July 1998 – June 2000 Jay G. Kobylarz
July 2000 - David W. Grogg
AWARDS RECEIVED BY THIS COUNCIL1988-1989 Father McGivney Award
1989-1990 Father McGiveny Founder Award
1990-1991 Honor Council, Father McGivney Award
1991-1992 Honor Council
1992-1993 Father McGivney Founder Award
1993-1994 Star Council, Distinguished Council
1994-1995 Star Council, Distinguished Council, NC Most Improved Council
1995-1996 Star Council, Distinguished Council
COUNCIL 7547
ELIZABETH CITY, NC
Council 7547 in Elizabeth City, NC was established on April 13, 1980 under the guidance of District Deputy Ralph Provost. The charter Grand Knight was Brian Williams and the other officers of the council were:
Chaplain – Rev. Raymond Yudin
Deputy Grand Knight – Buck Williams
Chancellor – Ed O’Conner
Financial Secretary – Rufus Abeyounis
Treasurer – Ray Rogerson
Recorder – Terrence Levesque
Warden – Ed Boncek
Advocate – William Bentley
Inside Guard – Small Olds
Outside Guard – John Kubanda
Lector – Fred BauerThe council held its meetings at St. Elizabeth's Church until 1989. When the two Catholic Churches in Elizabeth City merged and formed Holy Family Catholic Church, which was built on North Road Street in Elizabeth City, the council meetings were held there. The council meets on the first Wednesday of each month in the church Social Hall. After starting out with a small group of 40 “Catholic Gentlemen” the council has now grown to a membership of 135.
As the council grew so did the number and types of activities and projects they undertook. On their initiation date they held a First & Second Degree. It was during a blizzard and they had 17 dedicated men make their First Degree and 37 men making their Second Degree. In May of 1980 thirty men made their Third Degree in Raleigh. During the May 1980 State Convention the wives of the council donated a statue of the Infant Jesus of Prague. That same month saw the beginning of the council’s weekly Bingo night. This was their first fund raiser. Later in 1980 they took part in their first L.A.M.B. project and held their first Christmas Dance.
By 1981 the Brother Knights had started participating in the yearly March for Life held in Washington, DC, making monthly visits to the prison in Maple. NC. and held their first Thanksgiving Dinner for Migrant Workers.
1982 saw the council continue its charity work when they began collecting and distributing clothing to migrant workers and with the first of the yearly Christmas Dinner for Seniors. They finished out the year by manning the Christmas kettle for the Salvation Army.
In May of 1983 the council donated $1,050.00 to the building fund. They also took part in the Annual Elizabeth City Christmas Parade.
The council became involved in the K of C Free Throw Contest in January 1984. They took part in the local, district and state levels. In February they began providing janitorial and lawn care for the church.
By 1990 the council had a standing pall bearer list, provided new tables and chairs for the church social hall and installed a new phone system in the new rectory.
January 1992 they started a project where Brother Knights would drive the church van to pick up senior citizens and take them to Mass. Unfortunately this was stopped a few years ago because of the van became unreliable and replacing it was too expensive. Also, in January they started the tradition of providing coffee and donuts after Sunday Mass the first Sunday of each month. In December Brother Knights started providing a Santa Claus for the youth Christmas party.
The council began participating in the “Adopt-a-Highway” program in 1993 and that program continues to this day. Also, in May 1993 at the State Convention, our council introduced the idea of having a State License Plate with the Knights 3rd degree logo on it.
In 1995 the council started to support the Franciscan Seminarian and they also began to lead the Stations of the Cross on Fridays during Lent. Following the Stations they provided a soup supper in the social hall.
Our council was one of the three councils that in June 1995 formed The Father Stanley Grubitz Assembly.
In 1996 the council won the State Scrapbook Award at the State Convention. They also dedicated a memorial to the Unborn with Father Joe Gaul, State Chaplin, presiding.
Two five hundred scholarships were begun in June 1997. In August the scholarships became the “Luke Dennison Memorial College Scholarship Fund” in the memory of a Brother Knight’s son. In October one of our Brother Knights was one of the honorees at the Fourth Degree Exemplification.
In May 1998 the council had the honor of hosting a reception for a Boys Choir of 50 youths from the country of Andorra. Ten Knights welcomed the boys into their homes for an overnight stay.
The council’s first Awards Banquet was held in August 1999. That same fall the council collected water, bedding and food for the Flood Victims in Rocky Mount, NC. Many Brother Knights performed various home repairs for Flood Victims in Willamston and Roberston, NC. In December they held their first Christmas Party for “Special Needs” Children and their first Health Fair/Blood Drive.
In 2000 our Brother Knights put together and distributed Easter baskets of toiletries to the residents of local Nursing Homes. They also held their first Youth fishing Tournament along with a Parish Picnic. In December they participated in the Elizabeth City Christmas Parade with a float, 4th Degree Honor Guard and several Brother Knights marching.
The council began sponsoring a Cub Scout Pack and Boy Scout Troop in February 2001.
At the North Carolina State Convention, June 2002, we were presented with the Family Activity Award for our “Kids Fishing Tournament and Family Picnic”.
In August 2002 the council held training for alter servers.
In February 2003 they held a Marriage Vow Renewal for the parish.
At the North Carolina State Convention, June 2003, the Council was presented with the Community Activity Award for our “Special Needs Children Christmas Party”, State Council - State Deputy Award, Distinguished Council Award (16 consecutive year), Duane Russell Newsletter Award – First Place and the Council Website Award – Third Place.
In July 2003 PGK John Purcell and his wife, Barbara hosted a reception/picnic for the newly elected officers and their guests.
On October 5, 2003 Holy Family Parish held a Parish Picnic on church grounds. The knights cooked and served over 500 hamburgers and 350 hot dogs. The Bishop attended the picnic.
In December 2003, brother knights from our council rang the bell for the Salvation Army. In the two days we rang the bell we collected over $1700.00. We also hosted a Christmas Party for “Special Needs” children. This was our 4th year hosting the party and it continues to be very well attended.
In January 2004 we conducted the Annual Free Throw Competition. This year we held it at Camden Middle School and the Elizabeth City Boys & Girls Club, we had around 440 boys and girls participating.
In May 2004 we held our first spring L.A.M.B. drive. We handed out Tootise Rolls and collected money at the three Elizabeth City Food Lions.
Also in May 2004 we took 6 men from one of the local Assisted Living Homes fishing. We took them to the boardwalk and fishing area behind the Camden Courthouse. Although none of the men caught any fish they all had a great time.
The council is also proud of some of its other accomplishments and projects that are ongoing annually, monthly or weekly. A few are listed below:
At each meeting a decade of the rosary is said.
Provide pallbearers for funerals of brother Knights of Columbus.
Participate in the March for Life in D.C..
Participate in a Memorial Mass for deceased Knights.
Conduct a Marian Hour of Prayer on the feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe.
Used cell phones are collected and distributed to disabled people.
Yearly Youth Fishing Tournament followed by a Parish Picnic.
Conduct a prayer meeting and study hour each Wednesday and Communion Service every Sunday at the Local Maximum Security State Penitentiary.
Participate in the Flag Day raising ceremony in a local county.
The Knights Lantern Newsletter is published monthly.
Hold a yearly Council picnic at the local Coast Guard Base.
Sponsor a Corporate Mass with Knights providing all service needs.
Sponsors a party for Youth in the fall to raise money for needed youth projects.
Continue to support a seminarian.
A list of all the Grand Knights and Financial Secretaries
YEAR ----------------- GRAND KNIGHT ------ --FINANCIAL SECRETARY
1980-1981 -------------- Brian Williams ----------- Rufus R. Abeyounis
1981-1982 -------------- Buck A. Williams -------- Rufus R. Abeyounis
1982-1983 -------------- Buck A. Williams --------- Rufus R. Abeyounis
1983-1984 -------------- Edward R. Boncek --------PGK Linus G. Riehle
1984-1985 -------------- Henry Berard Jr.------------PGK Linus G. Riehle
1985-1986 -------------- Edward V. O'Connor ------PGK Linus G. Riehle
1986-1987 -------------- Edward V. O'Connor------ PGK Linus G. Riehle
1987-1988 -------------- Rufus R. Abeyounis ------ PGK Linus G. Riehle
1988-1989 -------------- Harry J. Gaither ------------PGK Linus G. Riehle
1989-1990 -------------- Michael J. Barber-----------PGK Brian Williams
1990-1991 --------------John A. Piotrowski----------PGK Brian Williams
1991-1992 --------------William J. Tuohy------------PGK Brian Williams
1992-1993---------------William J. Tuohy------------PGK Edward R. Boncek
1993-1994----------------John C. Purcell--------------PGK Edward R. Boncek
1994-1995----------------John C. Purcell--------------PGK Edward R. Boncek
1995-1996----------------Arthur J. Lamothe----------Steven M. Shrum
1996-1997----------------Arthur J. Lamothe----------Steven M. Shrum
1997-1998----------------Robert E. Wetzel------------PGK John C. Purcell
1998-1999----------------Robert E. Wetzel------------PGK John C. Purcell
1999-2000----------------Merlin W. Kingston--------PGK John C. Purcell
2000-2001----------------Merlin W. Kingston--------PGK John C. Purcell
2001-2002----------------Francis W. Willsey---------PGK John C. Purcell
2002-2003----------------Francis W. Willsey---------PGK John C. Purcell
2003-2004----------------David N. McGuire----------PGK John C. PurcellCOUNCIL 8143
MOREHEAD CITY, NC
Our Lady Star of the Sea Council 8143 received their charter from the Supreme Council on May 23, 1982. The District Deputy at this time was Edward Schreder.
The charter officers of the council were:
Grand Knight Bill Ashton
Chaplain Father Keaney
Thomas Larkin
Edward Shiel
Vete Semkus
Vito Fasano
Jerry Menella
Charter members included: James Boyd; Jack Fasano, David Fix; Charles Gregalis; James Lews; Gene Mottola; Bob Morris; Walter Patrick; Bernie & John Schwarzweller; Frank Strongcheck; Bill Therox and Carl Trester.At the inception the council met at the Tar Landing Condominium. They now meet at St. Egbert’s Church, Morton complex on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays of the month.
Council # 8143 was organized at Morehead City, NC and Our Lady of the Seas was suggested by Ed Shiel. On June 23, 1982 “Mary Knights” were organized and Geraldine was installed as President. On July 21, 1982 Vito Fasano introduced “Operation LAMB”. Morehead City Mayor Bud Dixon proclaimed March 29, 1983 as Knights of Columbus Day in the city. On September 8, 1993 the first council newsletter was published. On March 4, 1984, memorial funds received in the name of Frank Palma were used to start a Council Building Fund. The Charter Members received their charter certificates on April 24, 2001.
The council has also been active in the Free Throw contest, Mother’s Day and St. Patrick’s Day Masses for the deceased. A Christmas Day poster contest is also part of council events. A Marian Hour of Prayer is also part of this council’s activities.
COUNCIL 8363
FRANKLIN, NC
St. Michael Council 8363 received their charter from the Supreme Council on April 24, 1983. The charter Grand Knight was Robert Carpenter. Other charter officers were:
Father Mike Langley - Chaplain
Frank J. Tastinger - Deputy Grand Knight
Wayne Dameron - Chancellor
James Veit - Financial SecretaryThe council has met since its inceptiion at St. Michael's rectory. Since it began this council has been very active. They have celebrated Flag Day, June 14, each year. They have also been involved with the L.A.M.B. project, flea market sales, bingo and holiday dinners.
NUMBER 8509
KERNERSVILLE, NC
Holy Cross Council received their charter from the Supreme Council on December 2, 1983 under District Deputy Jim Green. The charter officers of the council were:
Grand Knight - Allen J. Livelsberger
Chaplain- Rev. Harry McGovern, OSF
Deputy Grand Knight - James J. St. John
Treasurer - Phil Lamendola
Financial Secretary - Anthony M. Petite
Mike Stadoon
Robert Fisk
Anthony Muller
John RigneySince their inception, the council has met at Holy Cross Church. The council is very proud of the accomplishments over the years:
Building a jungle gym set for the church. Re-constructed the parish house into an activity house; provide assistance to the elderly of the parish; furnish pall bearers at funerals; provide Rosary Guardian for the church and a monument to the unborn; provided financial aid to widow of a Brother Knight; held a drug awareness night for children and adults; gave awards for Citizen of the Year & a Fire and Police Award; re-molded the inside of the church by removal walls, painted and tiled floors; raised money for disaster victims in North Carolina and Florida floods; held a forum to meet political candidates; raise and send monies to seminarians; raised money for orphanage in South America; raised money to support a parish in southern India; held L.A.M.B street solicitations; sponsored Boy Scout Troop Number 943; put on a brunch for confirmation candidates and sponsors during their retreat; sponsored dances to raise money for charity; sponsored golf tournament for Make A Wish Foundation; ran the parish picnic; repair home of elderly woman who was a deceased brother’s wife and started a Squires Circle.
COUNCIL NUMBER 8664
LINCOLNTON, NC
St. Dorothy Council 8664 was formed on March 11, 1984 when it received its charter from the Supreme Council. The council was instituted under their first Grand Knight Clement H. Hupfer.
The charter members of this council were:
Matteo Agosta - Jerry Lobo - George F. Batten
David Machado - Michael G. Bristol - Allan Melby
Francis E. Brunet - Gary Montgomery- Michael Capristo
R. M. Needham - William Carlin - Frank R. O’Connor
Theodore P. Curis - Anthony F. Panissidi - John F. Dancoff
Robert H. Raber - Timothy C. Dischino - John A. Schaub
Anthony J. Fea - Bill J. Self - John C. Gerlits
Ronald J. Stewart - Edward G. Gilroy - Steve I. Thonburg
Ronald P. Harbert - Rev. Cecil W. Tice - Francis J. Herzing
Ronald V. Troglione - Dan E. Houser - Raymond C. Young
Clement H. Hupfer - William J. Ilse - John W. Jankowski, Jr
Perry G. Jordon - William M. Jordan - William M. Jordan. Jr
David L. Koenders - Joseph J. Kopfel - Normand O. Levasseur
Ernest J. LidmanThe St. Dorothy’s Columbian Squires Circle 3973 was formed in 1992. Normand O. Levasseurl, GK and Randall Marcum was the first counselor.
The biggest achievement for this council is community awareness of a catholic men group. In 1984 our exposure to the community, we were labeled as KKK on the front page of the local newspaper, The Lincoln Times News. Since then, we have Knights of Columbus serving and supporting in almost every organization in the community. Examples of this are: Hospice, Child Abuse Prevention, Habitat, Association for Retarded Citizens, Crisis Pregnancy6 Center, Prison Ministry, Youth group/activities in all areas of the Church. As if this date (Dec 12, 2001) the council has received 86 awards and 22 awards for the Circle. Since the council’s beginning, we have been named “Best Small Council in the State three times.
Other activities that the council has been involved with are:
Steven Thomas Raber Scholarship Fund---7 $500.00 scholarship given away in the past three years.
202 treat bags given to inmates at the state prison in Lincoln County.
Along with other area churches provides a Christmas dinner at the prison.
Since 1984 the council LAMB program has brought in $137,083.48.
Annual retreat for men in which other parish members are invited.
Annual Mother’s Day breakfast.
Ice Cream socials each year for members of the parish.
Council donates $500.00 each day the RSVP program.
Council serves coffee and snacks every third Sunday after Mass.
In September of each year council sells sausages and drinks at the Lincoln County Apple Festival.
Council cleans the local roadways four times per year.
A Memorial Mass each year for the deceased members of the Knights and Squires.’
The council sponsors a Christmas dinner and Awards program.
A Free Throw contest is held each year.
Council donates several hundred Rosaries to the mission of Brazil, Honduras, Africa and the youth of our church and to our pastor.
COUNCIL NUMBER 8680
SALISBURY, NC
Sacred Heart Council 8680 was initiated on April 1, 1984. The charter Grand Knight was Stanley Grabawski and the Chaplain was Msg Richard Allen. Since their beginning the council has met at Sacred Heart Church in Salisbury. During the existence council 8680 has started a Squire Circle. This council believes that getting young men of the church involved in the council is their life blood.
COUNCIL NUMBER 8684
GREENSBORO, NC
Mary’s Council 8684 received its charter from the Supreme Council on May 3, 1984. The North Carolina State Convention was held in Fayetteville, NC in 1984. The State Officers at the time of the council’s initiation were:
State Deputy George H. Wahl, Jr
State Chaplain Rev. Raymond J. Donohue
Immediate Past State Deputy John D. Organ
State Secretary Ronald J. Carney
State Treasurer Everett E. Lamczyk
State Advocate Richard C. Grebner
State Warden Donald L. DuboisCOUNCIL NUMBER 8759
KILL DEVIL HILLS, NC
Annunciata council was formed in June 1984 under District Deputy Buck Williams. The charter officers of the council were:
Grand Knight - Orville F. Rush, Jr
Chaplain - Father Bauman
Deputy Grand Knight - James Norbell
Financial Secretary - Herb BarrWhen the council was first formed they met at the Lions Club and later moved to Holy Redeemer Church. The church burned down in 1998 and is in the process of being re-constructed. The council has been able to assist by thus far donating $5,000.00 for this cause.
The name of the council was chosen from the history of Verrazano who sailed off the Outer Banks in 1494 on the Feast of the Annunciation.
COUNCIL NUMBER 8857
HOPE MILLS, NC
Good Shepherd council was formed on January 16, 1985 in Hope Mills, NC. The charter Grand Knight was Amos Small.When the council first started they met at Good Shepherd Church. They now meet at the Hope Mills Community Center. This council enjoys the accomplishments which are:
Participation in the LAMB Operation program
Sixteenth anniversary dinner/dance on January 16, 2001
Christmas children’s party
Food baskets for the needy on several occasions
Fund raiser to support the State Convention on November 30, 2000
JACK DRISCOLL MEMORIAL COUNCIL
NUMBER 8886
BREVARD, NC
Jack Driscoll Memorial Council was formed on February 18, 1965 in Brevard, NC. The Charter Grand Knight was William J. Kowalski, Jr. Other charter offices of the council were:
Father Ramon A. Berg Chaplain
Robert Jones Deputy Grand Knight
Wesley S. Cobb Chancellor
George Lott Warden
Aloysius Riley Recorder
Edward J. Retzer Advocate
Richard Dardis Financial SecretaryThe council has always met at the Sacred Heart Church in Brevard, NC. For approximately ten years the council has sponsored a Red Cross Blood Drive every 58 days at Sacred Heart Church. It is the most successful blood donor site in Western North Carolina, exceeding established quotas.
The annual St. Patrick’s Corn Beef and cabbage dinner and the Columbus Day Pasta dinners, as well as quarterly breakfasts are looked forward to by members of the parish for good food and fellowship.
Council 8886 is called on to assist at all funerals at Sacred Heart Church as Ushers, Greeters, Altar Servers, and Eucharistic Ministers as well as doing the same duties at all Masses.
In 1999 this council hosted a cookout and sit down dinner for members of the Slovakian Special Olympics team. This was well received by the team and was very satisfying to council members.
COUNCIL NUMBER 8923
ARDEN, NC
Council 8923 received its charter from the Supreme Council on April 2, 1985. The council is named after Father Joseph Maule who was the first pastor of St. Barnabas Catholic Church in Arden, NC. The parish was founded in 1964.
The current officers (2001-2002) of this council are:
GRAND KNIGHT MICHAEL HINMAN
CHAPLAIN FR. ROGER ARNSPARGER
DEPUTY GRAND KNIGHT DONALD BABB
CHANCELLOR LOUIS NUMANN
WARDEN KEVIN BRAY
RECORDER DR. GARY WALICKI
FINANCIAL SECRETARY GEORGE COURVILLE
TREASURER JOSEPH HARRISON
ADVOCATE HERBERT REITH
LECTURER RALPH WITKOWSKI
INSIDE GUARD LAURENCE REDMOND
OUTSIDE GUARD JAMES BAKER
3 YEAR TRUSTEE PATRICK McQUILLING
2 YEAR TRUSTEE DAVID SMITH
1 YEAR TRUSTEE LAURENCE CARTERCOUNCIL 9030
LAURINBURG, NC
Bishop Vincent S. Waters Council 9030 received its charter from the Supreme Council on June 12, 1985. At this time the District Deputy was Ben Peets. The charter Grand Knight was Dennis Wyckoff and the council has meet at St. Mary’s Parish Hall since its inception.
CHARTER OFFICERS
Chaplain Msgr. Francis J. Murphy
Deputy Grand Knight John Casale
Treasurer Mel Franc
Financial Secretary Leonard RussoThe council is proud of the following honors received:
1987-1988 Honor Council, Founders Award, Most Improved Council
1988-1989 Distinquished Council, Founders
1989-1990 Star Council, Honor Council
1990-1991 Star Council
1991-1992 Honor Council, Father McGivney Award
1992-1993 Star Council, Honor Council
1993-1994 Honor Council
COUNCIL 9039
SHALLOTTE, NC
OUR LADY OF THE ROSARY COUNCIL 9039 RECEIVED ITS CHARTER FROM THE SUPREME COUNCIL ON JUNE 4, 1985. THE CHARTER OFFICERS OF THIS COUNCIL WERE:
GRAND KNIGHT ROGER (RED) FULLER
CHAPLAIN REV JOHN L. RICHARDSON
DEPUTY GRAND KNIGHT JAMES WHETZEL
WARDEN MIKE LUCEY
FINANCIAL SECRETARY BRAD WILLIAMS
TREASURER ANDY BOPP
RECORDER JIM RIESE
ADVOCATE HARRY ROBER
3 YEAR TRUSTEE DON KIRBY
1 YEAR TRUSTEE BOB WALSHTHIS COUNCIL MEETS AT THE BRUNSWICK ELECTRIC COMPANY IN SHALLOTTE, NC
COUNCIL 9249
THOMASVILLE (DAVIDSON COUNTY), NC
Our Lady’s Council 9249 in Thomasville, NC was formed on March 5, 1986. The North Carolina State Convention was held in Charlotte in 1986.
The State Officers at the time of this council’s initiation were:
State Deputy Ronald J. Carney, Sr
State Chaplain Msgr. Richard F. Allen
Immediate State Deputy George H. Wahl
State Secretary Everett E. Lamczyk
State Treasurer Richard C. Grebner
State Advocate Donald L. Dubois
State Warden James L. NeelyCOUNCIL 9364
WASHINGTON, NC
Msgr. Edward T. Gilbert council was formed on June 22, 1986 in Washington, NC. T he men of this council have met at Mother of Mercy School, 115 West 9th Street, Washington, NC since its inception.
The charter Grand Knight of the council was Vito Maurizzio and the charter chaplain was the Rev. W. A. McNulty.
Charter Members
William Abeyounis
Ralph Cosentino, Jr
Dennis G. Fallon
Harold E. Alton
Ralph Cosentino, Sr
James E. Gorham
Billy A. Apple
Harold C. Davis
Donald T. Howard
Joe A. Apple
Joseph H. Eckert
Rev. Allen Jacobs
Francis Brady, Jr
Maurice Esker
John W. Krutilek
Adolph Kubick
Vito MaurizzioRev. W. A. McNulty
David Milligan
Charles Nogorski
Louis Nassef, Sr
Edmond Paszt
Richard Paszt
Stan J. Paszt
Raphael Perrey
John R. Pyburn
Martin J. Reed
Mathew Rodgers
Anthony Scibetta
Tony SimeoneThis council's namesake, Right Rev. Msgr. Edward T. Gilbert was born on May 4, 1902, the son of William and Elizabeth Gilbert, at 91-02 North 109th Street, Richmond Hill, NY
CURRENT DISTRICT DEPUTY EUGENE TORTONE
1998-1999 COUNCIL OFFICERS
GRAND KNIGHT ROBERT E. SCHULZ
CHAPLAIN FR. DONALD BARIBEAU
DEPUTY GRAND KNIGHT RICHARD S. PASZT
CHANCELLOR ANTON SCHREIBER
RECORDER STEVEN J. SUTON
FINANCIAL SECRETARY ERNEST F. EDELEN
TREASURER JOHN A. MALLETTE
ADVOCATE ROBERT S. BROWNE
WARDEN JOHN A. BROWN
INSIDE GUARD OTTO FLORSCHUTZ
OUTSIDE GUARD JAMES E. GORHAM
TRUSTEE 1 YEAR GEORGE E. YORK
TRUSTEE 2 YEARS ANTHONY T. FRAUNE
TRUSTEE 3 YEARS DANIEL F. FITZGERALDCOUNCIL 9365
HENDERSON, NC
Spreme Council on June 26, 1986. The charter officers of the council were:
Grand Knight Robert B. Williford, Sr
Chaplain Father Tony Call
Deputy Grand Knight Bob Giddens
Chancellor Tom McGraw
Financial Secretary Ken Giard
Warden Joseph Wilson
Treasurer Jerry Rose
Recorder Danny D. Williford
Advocate Jim Populorum
Inside Guard Mike Williford
Outside Guard Fred BrewerWhen the council was first established it met at St. James Church in Henderson, NC. It now meets at St. Paul’s Church in Henderson.
The council is very proud of the fact it has become the leading sponsor of community service, church service and family unity programs within the parish community. The Knights were the leaders in combining two parishes into the single St. James parish community existing today and the Knights have been the leaders in construction and expansion of the parish facilities that also exist today.
Council 9345 has attracted members from several generations and from both the Hispanic and English speaking portions of the parish. In community with an often transitional Catholic community, we have been one of the most stabilizing influences on the parish community.
COUNCIL 9492
TRYON, NC
St. John the Baptist Council was issued their charter on December 7, 1986. Since it first organized this council met at the Parish Hall of St. John's Church. The Charter Officers of this council were:
Grand Knight Robert A. Wolfe
Chaplain Father Patrick Gavigan
Deputy Grand Knight Aloysius Corcoran
Chancellor Rene Tanguay
Recorder Lauro Coppi
Financial Secretary Donald Viehman
Treasurer Donald Creagan
Advocate John Costello
Warden Ed Kemple
Inside Guard Bruce HaslettOutside Guard Alfred LaRocque
Trustee Philip Voso
Trustee Frank Johnston
Trustee William GladdingThe members of St. John the Baptist Council have a Marian Mass each year during the month of May. The Rosary is said before the 8:30 AM Mass and the Knights lead in the recitation of the Glorious Mysteries. Traditionally the honored guest for this Mass are the widows of deceased members of the council. During the summer months of June, July and August the Knights arrange a hospitality hour after the morning Masses on the 3rd Sunday. This provides the faithful ladies a needed rest during the summer months. During September members of the council are involved with the L.A.M.B. Operation. Contributions from this event are donated at the local level to agencies that are need of extra funding. To date St. John the Baptist Council has collected $2,0867.73. They are especially proud of the fact that a number of parishioners help with the collection.
On October 5, 1997 this council erected a 'Memorial to the Unborn" on the church grounds. This memorial was dedicated by Father Larry and special thanks was given to Past Grand Knight Robert A. Wolfe who spearheaded the drive to erect the memorial. Every October the council has a Mass said remembering the deceased members of the council. The Rosary is said honoring Our Lady of the Rosary during the Rosary Month.
One of the strengths of the Knights of Columbus is their strong principles toward Pro-Life. During 1997 the council placed 35 crosses at the Laurel Avenue Memorial commemorating the 35 million aborted babies in the 25 years since the Wade v. Roe Supreme Court decision. It also participates in the Right to Life March in Washington, DC. in January as well as placing an ad in the Tryon Daily Bulletin on Right to Life Day in January. The newspaper ad affirms the Right to Life at all stages of life. Further Pro-Life involvement was in the Landrum march sponsored by the First Baptist Church. Pastor Jerry Long asked Past Grand Knight Robert Wolfe to lead the march carrying the Knights of Columbus banner. A contingent from St. John of Tryon Catholic Church followed.
COUNCIL 9499
CLEMMONS, NC
In January 1987, Mike Facciolo and John Harrison met with Father Cecil Tice of Holy Family Church to discuss the feasibility of forming a Knights of Columbus Council centered around the parish in Clemmons. The meeting took place at Clemmons Kitchen. The recollection is that Mike paid for the meal, making that the last and only time in 10 years that Mike picked up the check. Father Tice agreed with our proposal. Letters were sent to members of Winston-Salem Council #2829 who attended Holy Family parish. Fr. Tice allowed us to hold a recruitment campaign after Masses. Some key members involved in forming the council included Mike Radford and Tom Bohnert. The first organizational meeting was held in February in the concourse of the church. All meetings, degrees, and programs were held in the concourse because there was no Family center. The family center would not be completed until 1988.
On March 1, 1987, the council held a First Degree with 16 candidates, 22 transfers from #2829, and 10 transfers or reinstatements from other councils forming the list of 48 charter members. The Charter members of Council #9499 were:
James E. Allen
James C. Heckel
Frank R. Naples, Jr.
Thomas A. Bohnert
Kurt C. Heckert
Robert J. Nowak, Jr.
Rodney L. Booker
Michael W. Heruska
Robert J. Nowak, Sr.
Albert Bruno
Ronald H. Holmes
Joseph R. Olah
Thomas J. Callaghan
Richard M. Human
Donald F. Parker
James F. Callahan
Robert E. Hunt
Ronald E. Parker
Lawrence D. Chance
Charles E. Lauer
John R. Pickles
John C. Clark
John D. Lenzmeier
Michael A. Radford
Lawrence E. Cuneo
James F. Madel
Jeffory B. Rooney
Everett C. Dougherty
Robert G. McGee
Charles T. Ryan
Michael F. Facciolo
Bruce B. McKillop
John L. Stemper
Samuel N. Ferguson
Michael A. Michel
William A. Sutton
Robert L. Gearren
Francis J. Monaghan
Fr. Cecil W. Tice
John A. Harrison, Jr.
Joel T. Mousaw
John J. Tomel
William F. Haubrick
Joseph Murphy
Robert L. Vitelli1987-1988 - GK John Harrison
At this first meeting, election of officers were held and included as Charter Grand Knight John Harrison, Deputy Grand Knight Mike Radford, and Chancellor Tom Bohnert. The discussion on what to name the council surfaced many suggestions - Clemmons Council, Holy Family Council, Western Forsyth Council, Knights of Clemmons Council, etc. It was quite a decision, because we didn't want to isolate our name to a particular parish or exclude members from Lewisville, Advance, or Winston-Salem. Destiny prevailed. Just 6 weeks earlier, the Supreme Chaplain of the Knights of Columbus passed away. His legacy was not only a strong devotion to the church and K of C, but also to people with mental retardation. Hence, the council was named in honor of Bishop Charles P. Greco. Supreme assigned the number 9499 to our council.
First annual Strohaus Bingo with over 225 people attending. Proceeds were used to boost the council budget which stood at about $50. In January 1988, held second for RSVP with 275 people.
Hosted the 1988 State Softball Tournament
Sponsored 2 teams in the State Basketball Tournament.
Organized a 6 team bowling league.
Started programs: Family Christmas Party, Monthly pancake breakfast, Migrant Ministry picnic, and Youth Easter Egg Hunt at Holy Family.
Ended year with over 80 members.
Best Small Council in the State
State Membership Award
K of C insurance award (received K of C street sign hanging on K of C shed.)
State Church Program of Year - Stroh's Bingo/RSVP program.
Star Council
State Knight of the Year - John HarrisonIt was a super 1st year.
1988-1989 - GK Mike Radford
Mike Radford served as an inspiration to the members of our council. As our 2nd Grand Knight, Mike led the council to a great year, even better than the first. It was in this year, that the council took off.
Operation LAMB - $6,400
Adopt-A-Highway
Had 61 members at the April 1989 meeting.
State Softball Champions (Dethroned 7 consecutive year champion Raleigh)
2 teams in basketball tourn.
First Super Bowl Party held at my house
Grew to 130 members with a record 52 new members in one year
Star Council
Distinquished Council
Best Medium sized council
State Knight of the Year - Mike Radford
John Harrison elected as State Warden
Mike, Maureen, and their family now live in Wilson NC where Mike is a member of Council #4660.
1989 - GK Tom Bohnert
In 1989, Tom Bohnert was elected Grand Knight. Tom continued our strong tradition of great leaders. Tom set goals of $10,000 in LAMB, 25 new members. Both were achieved. However, 1989 brought us Black Thursday - a day that all RJR employees will remember. GK Tom was one of the many employees laid off. So after 6 months stepped down as GK to accept a job in Idaho.
1990 - GK Bob Vitelli
When Tom announced his resignation, the council was in somewhat of a shock and in great need of a leader to finish the year. Bob Vitelli recognized this need and agreed to fulfill the unexpired term as GK. Bob not only took over, but he actually took us to yet another level of great achievement.
The year included:
Initiation of the Columbian Squires Circle.
Altar Server Recognition
First annual Wife Appreciation Night
Hurricane HUGO outreach
Sold 500 state raffle ticket - Sam Ferguson won $200 prize.
Held 1st annual square dance
State Softball Champions coached by Charlie Ryan
Hosted 3rd Degree
37 new members
Brother Charlie West passed away
Distinguished council
Best Large Council- the only time in history of NC that council has won the best council award 3 years in a row in 3 separate divisions.
1990-1991 - GK Bob Nowak
Membership reached 160 members
Initiation of the Our Lady of Mercy Council
Nativity set was built in Al Bruno's garage with a set of plans dating from 1953
Once again sponsored 3 seminarians - Stroh's bingo
Participated in A Day in the Village by manning a food booth
Began our monthly rosary program, started by Joe Mirabito
Held first council golf tournament at Grandview CC
The Easter Egg hunt had 125 children attend and lasted for 1 min. and 36 seconds.Star Council
Best Council1991-1992 - GK Al Bruno
Softball team 3-peated - Coach Charlie Ryan
Columbiettes were chartered as the first group in N.C. with 38 women
Sold cotton candy at Day in the Village
Painted the Picnic Shelter
Held Knight at the Races
18 new members joined
Distinquished council
1992-1993 - GK Keith Tart
Hosted State Softball Tourn. State Softball Champions in Softball - B Division
Basketball Tourn. 2nd Place
Once again held Migrant Ministry picnic with over 200 in attendance
1st Fish Fry held
Family Christmas Party with Santa - Won Family of Year Program for State
Square Dance held
Wife appreciation night at Barn Dinner Theatre
Distinquished Council
Columbian Award
1993-1994 - GK Joram Thomas
170 members
3rd place in Volleyball
1st place in Basketball 4 on 4 tournament
Concessions at Wake Forest Football Games
Council Golden Knight of Year Bob Vitelli for unprecendented 4th time
Distinguished Council
Star Council
Best Council
1994-1995 - GK Jim Gildein
Operation LAMB - 160% improvement
Hosted State Softball Tournament - I got hurt in 1st Game
2 teams in State Volleyball Tourn. - 2nd place
Basketball - 1st and 3rd place
Wife Appreciation Knight - Talent Show featuring a normal day at Saint Timothy's, Rodney Dangerfield (Tom Runser), Sam Ferguson as Jimmy Buffet, and The Blues Brother
Built KofC shed, and church playground
Hosted State Free Throw
1995-1996 - GK Bill O'Neill
Hosted State Mid-Year Meeting
Hosted State Volleyball Tournament and won 1st place
Basketball State Champs 4 on 4 tournament
33 new members
Mardi Gras Wife Appreciation Night
3 seminarians RSVP
Adopt-A-Highway moved from Peace Haven to Kinnamon Road
White water rafting trip
Family golf tournamentHoly Family Icon presented to church from State Council
Supreme Family Program of the Year – Family Christmas Party
1996-1997 - GK Mike Farrell
From the moment Mike Farrell joined, he brought a great energy level to the council. When he became Grand Knight, that energy level continued. Attendance at meetings was at an all time high. As well as continuing the many great programs of which the council is known, there was also a council Carribean Cruise in which 16 knights and their wives attended. Jake and Elwood of the Blues Brothers made their appearance at the St. Valentine’s Dance. The sports teams continued to excel. The council joined the other three councils in our district to host the State Convention.
1997 - GK Keith Hite
With Keith Hite as Grand Knight, the council continued to thrive. However, Keith Hite stepped down for personal reasons after 5 months and was succeeded by Hank Shurtz
1997-1998 - GK Hank Shurtz
RSVP – 5 seminarians
OP LAMB - $26,000
Knights donated 70 turkeys to Look to Bethlehem
Host State Softball Tournament
John Harrison elected as State Deputy and Fr. O’Rourke as State Chaplain
State Volleyball – 1st place
DD Joram Thomas
Pumpkin Carving Program at Brenners’ Children Hospital began
State Deputy Award
Supreme Family Program of the Year Award – Family Fishing Tournament
1998-1999 - GK Lenny MeyersKnight at the Races – video version began
RSVP – 5 seminariansHabitat for Humanity House (Bob Nicolosi joined)
Op LAMB - $26,900
Special Olympics World Summer Games – Host Town Program – 12 families hosted athletes and coaches from Macao
Meyers – State Family of the Year
Supreme Family of the Year Program – Santa’s Workshop
State Basketball Tournament Champions
State Softball Tournament – 2nd place
1999-2000 - GK Tom SchneiderLowe’s Racing Buses
$20,000 LAMB collections
Supreme Youth Program of the Year
State Deputy Award
2000-2001 - GK Bruce Libke
$26,000 LAMB collections
Columbian Award
2001-2002 - GK Chris Parker
Op LAMB - $21,156
Lowe’s Racing Buses
RSVP – 7 seminarians
Warthogs Game – cheered on a 9th inning comeback win
Santa’s workshop awarded Supreme Program of the Year
Honor Council
2002-2003 - GK Joe BraeckelFestival of Lights at Tanglewood
Distinguished Council
2003-2004 - GK Jim CallahanState Convention – hosted and profited $6,000
Lenten Retreat started.
Honor Council
Columbian Award
Wine Festival parking
$16,000 LAMB
2004-2005 - GK Bob Nicolosi
Reinitiated the council Rosary program
Over $15,000 in Op Lamb
July 4th Festival parking
2005 - GK Brian Sternecker
NUMBER 9549
HILLSBOROUGH, NC
Council 9549 received their Charter from the Supreme Council on April 13, 1987. There were 31 charter members. The first Grand Knight was Vaughan Farrie who has celebrated his 50th year as a Knight of Columbus.
The charter District Deputy was David Onofrio. The charter Chaplain was Father James Keenan.
Hillsborough has had thirteen successful years in the Operation L. A. M. B. program.
COUNCIL NUMBER 9560
CHARLOTTE, NC
St. Vincent De Paul Council received it charter on May 4, 1987 under District Deputy Lee Reinhardt. The council has always met at the St. Vincent De Paul Church Activity Center.
The charter officers of the council were:
Grand Knight George Bantle
Chaplain Msgr Felix R. Kelaher
Deputy Grand Knight Harry Cortese
Chancellor Steve Poutier
Recorder Bill Barber
Financial Secretary Al Rubbo
Treasurer Ralph Dimenna
Warden Mike Desantis
Advocate Dick Lucey
Inside Guard Dick Kopp
Outside Guard Jim Henshaw
Trustees Harold Sheppard
Quinn Smith
Pat LoftusAmong their many accomplishments St. Vincent De Paul Council list the following as being very important to the council:
May 1992 Inititated the now statewide Operation Exodus (Ramps for the handicapped) project.
May 1996 The council became a major sponsor of Mother Theresa's House in Charlotte and financially provided an initial offering of $2,500.00 . The men also provided actual work renovating the quarters.
June 1996 The organize the St. Vincent Knights Widows Club for all wives of deceased Knights in our area. These women are provided a budget from the council for social events. In return the women assist the men on many projects, for example the L. A. M. B. project and hosting social events. The council has also actively supported the rebuilding of St. Vincent's Campus with annual financial support and special projects. They have donated $3,600.00 for stained-glass windows in the Church. Since 1991 the council has operated a booth at all events at the Charlotte Coliseum. They have averaged $20,000.00 per year to aid in their effort to help charities and brother Knights. Of the approximately 220 members, at least one-half performed work at the booth. This is definite brotherly act to help our fellow man; the council is very proud of this activity to raise funds for others.
COUNCIL 9570
LENOIR, NC
Father Thomas McAvoy Council received its charter on May 14, 1987.
CHARTER OFFICERS
Grand Knight Michael V. Waters
Deputy Grand Knight George A. Fuderer
Chancellor M. Lawrence Church
Recorder John H. Cassavaugh
Financial Secretary S. Jerry Waters
Treasurer Max Doll
Advocate Erwin B. Morweiser
Warden G. Layne Chandler, Sr
Inside Guard Robert G. Watson
Outside Guard Edward F. Martineau
Trustee, 1 Year Clair L. Morris, PGK (#6451)
Trustee, 2 Year Ronald J. Carney, Sr (N.C, State Deputy)
Trustee, 3 Year A. Donald Brinton, PGK (6451)
Lecturer Peter DollThis council bears the name of Fr. Thomas McAvoy who was born in New York City, attended parochial schools there and graduated from Fordham University. He served for a short period of time as Clerk of Court, Borough of the Bronx before being recruited for the missionary diocese of Raleigh, NC by the late Bishop Vincent Waters. He studied for the priesthood at the Gregorian Institute, Rome, returning to the U. S. for ordination in 1940. His first assignment brought him to Monroe, NC, where his flock consisted of service personnel quartered there and a few black parishioners.
As Catholic priest serving blacks he was often mistreated and maligned by the locals and was a target of the KKK. His memories of the early days spent in North Carolina were painful to him up until the time of his death.
Father Tom served in several parishes as administrator or pastor of several parishes in the Raleigh Diocese. When the Diocese of Charlotte was created, he was transferred to it. Father's health had begun to fail, and his eyesight was affected to the point where he could not longer drive a car. He came to St. Francis of Assisi, Lenoir, as pastor, from a residence position at Our Lady of Grace in Greensboro. A little more than a year later, Father Tom suffered a stroke that ended his active ministry.
Father had been an active member of the Knights for many years prior to his arrival in Lenoir. He readily agreed to serve as Chaplain of Catawba Valley Council 6451, Hickory. The council was having difficulties scheduling meetings, so Father offered it a meeting room in the St. Francis of Assisi CCD Building. That council met there for several years before finding another location in Hickory.
When Council 9570 was chartered in Lenoir, it already had a meeting place reserved for it, so it was only fitting that it was named after it benefactor.
Father McAvoy Council has earned many honors in its 12 years of existence:
Star Council (five years)
Best Council in Division (State) 1989-1990
State Deputy Award in Division 1996-1997, and 1998-1999
Operation LAMB awards in 11 of 12 years.
Best Newsletter (State) 1989-1990
Best Scrapbook (State) 1989-1990 and 1990-1991
Two outstanding projects by the council was the construction of a picnic pavilion on the CCD grounds in 1990, and the renovation in 1998-1999 of a large room in the CCD building to serve as a sanctuary while our new church is being built.
FATHER WILLIAM T. Mc SHEA COUNCILNUMBER 9579
MORGANTON, NC
Council 9579 in Morganton, NC received their charter from the Supreme Council on May 31, 1987 with Charter Grand Knight John C. Gimpel leading the council. The Charter Chaplain was Father John J. Murray and the Deputy Grand Knight was Michael L. Koontz.
During the early years the council met at the St. Charles Borromeo Church library. It later moved to the church basement.
On March 25, 1995 this council was one of the first, if not the first, council in North Carolina to erect a memorial to the unborn. The ground around the memorial now serves as the final resting place for the remains of 4 miscarried or stillborn children.
The following letter speaks for itself:
Luther J. Stultz, State Deputy
Knights of Columbus
5504 Glenrock Drive
Fayetteville, NC 28303
December 29, 1996Worth State Deputy:
Fr. William T. McShea Council #9579 has erected a memorial to the unborn at St. Charles Borromeo Church in Morganton. The memorial is located at the entrance to the church at 714 West Union Street. It came to be largely through the efforts of Brother Knights Bill Stroker and Evart Braun in late 1994. The memorial was designed and purchased through a local funeral home in early 1995, and it was dedicated by Fr. Kenneth Whittington, our chaplain and pastor, on the Feast of the Annunciation, March 25, 1995, in commemoration of the day that Christ became one of the unborn. Brother and Sir Knights, including Ron Carney attended the dedication.
The memorial is inscribed as follows:
IN MEMORY OF THE UNBORN
“Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you,
Before you were born, I dedicated you.”
Jer. 1:5
Fr. William T. McShea Council #9579
Sometime in early 1995 before the erection of our memorial, Fr. Whittington was approached by a couple from our mission parish, Our Lady of the Angels in Marion, about a fitting resting place for the remains of their unborn child who was miscarried. Fr. Whittington suggested our memorial, and the child’s remains were placed beneath it. Therefore, our memorial is dedicated symbolically to all of the unborn and in a special way to the individual whose remains rest there.
If you need any further information about our memorial, please contact me.
Vivat Jesus,
Stephen M. Schoeberle, F.S.
COUNCIL NUMBER 9709
RALEIGH, NC
All Saints Council 9709 received their Charter on January 8, 1988 under District Deputy Anthony J. Anello. The Charter Members of the council were:
Grand Knight Lawrence C. Dudley
Chaplain Rev. David J. McBriar
Deputy Grand Knight Kenneth J. Justice
Chancellor Martin E. Zohoski
Warden Carl A. Ellison
Recorder James W. Darrow
Treasurer Thomas V. KellySince the inception of this council they have held their meetings at St. Francis of Assisi Church in Raleigh.
The council concentrates its efforts in support of the operations of St. Francis of Assisi Church and to develop a fraternal spirit among the members of the council.
COUNCIL NUMBER 9722
SYLVA, NC
Smokey Mountain Council 9722 was chartered on February 7, 1988 under District Deputy and Senator Robert Carpenter. The Charter Grand Knight was Laurens F. Schaap and the Financial Secretary was Gene Slayton. When the council began their chaplain was Father Cahill and they met at St. Mary’s hall where they still hold their meetings.
The council has been involved since their inception with the Free Throw contest, the L.A.M.B. program and Bingo. The proceeds from bingo are used to maintain the church and grounds. The council members are also active as ushers at the weekend Masses.
COUNCIL NUMBER 9746
NEWTON, NC
Saint Joseph the Worker Council 9746 was initiated into the Order of the Knights of Columbus on March 22, 1988 when they received their charter from the Supreme Council. The North Carolina State Convention was held in Fayetteville, NC in 1988.
The State Officers at the time of this council’s initiated were:
State Deputy Everett E. Lamczyk
State Chaplain Very Rev. Martin J. Carter, S.A.
Immediate Past State Deputy Ronald J. Carney
State Secretary Richard C. Grebner
State Treasurer Donald L. Dubois
State Advocate James L. Neely
State Warden Luther J. StultzNUMBER 9847
FAYETTEVILLE, NC
Sons of Mother Seton Council 9847 received their charter from the Supreme Council on June 15, 1988 under the leadership of District Deputy Ted Michaud.
The charter officers of the council were:
Grand Knight David Benes
Chaplain Father Corbin Ketchersid
Deputy Grand Knight Robert Timbers
Chancellor Ron Foster
Warden Bill Lund
Recorder Brent West
Treasurer Bill Miatke
Financial Secretary Joe Osborne
Advocate Al Hums
Lecturer James Hart
Trustees Leroy Carpenter
Charles Covell
Jack McCloskeyThe council has held their meetings since they began at the St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Social Hall.
ST. RAPHAEL THE ARCHANGEL COUNCIL
NUMBER 9880
RALEIGH, NC
ST. RAPHAEL THE ARCHANGEL COUNCIL 9880 RECEIVED ITS CHARTER FROM THE SUPREME COUNCIL ON OCTOBER 25, 1998. THE CHARTER OFFICERS OF THE COUNCIL WERE:
GRAND KNIGHT BOB SERINO
CHAPLAIN FATHER GERALD LEWIS
DEPUTY GRAND KNIGHT ED KOCAN
CHANCELLOR BOB McMANUS
WARDEN BILL KNIPPER
FINANCIAL SECRETARY CHUCK DIRENZO
TREASURER DAVE BICHLER
ADVOCATE FRANK TWIFORD
RECORDER TOM LASKOWSKI
INSIDE GUARD TOM TULLY
OUTSIDE GUARD MIKE MULREANY
THREE YEAR TRUSTEE GREG REAGAN
TWO YEAR TRUSTEE JERRY MAGOLAN
THE COUNCIL HAS MET SINCE ITS INCEPTION AT SETON HALL AT ST. RAPHAEL’S CHURCH.IN APRIL 1997 THIS COUNCIL ESTABLISHED AN ANNUAL CAR RAFFLE TO PROVIDE SCHOLARSHIPS TO ST. RAPHAEL’S ELEMENTARY SCHOOL AND CARDINAL GIBBONS HIGH SCHOOL.
NUMBER 10389
DENVER, NC
Council 10389 received their charter from the Supreme Council on May 30, 1990. The Charter Grand Knight was Don Brookover. At the inception of this council there were 50 men on the roster.
The following were Grand Knights during the years indicated:
1991-1992 Tony Fea
1992-1993 Pat Lisi
1993-1994 Kurth Dohmann
1994-1995 Steve Fairley
1995-1996 Tom Fields
1996-1998 Jon Wylie
1998-1999 Steve Lisi
1999-2000 Bob Johansen
2000-2001 Danny VillarrealOver the years the council received the following awards:
Star Council 1990-1991; 1992-1993, 1993-1994
Distinguished Council 1990-1991; 1991-1992; 1992-1993; 1993-1994
Superior Council 1992-1993
Best Council in State Division I 1992-1993
Father McGivney Award 1994-1995
Founders Award 1991-1992
Youth Activities Award 1992-1993
The council has also received the Lincoln County Association of Retarded Citizens (ARC) Organization of the year in 1992, 1993 and 1996.
Holy Spirit Council has been very active throughout the years in supporting Parish life. This is done by providing invaluable volunteer resources for all facets of Church activities. As an example the council provides a leader each Sunday to pray the Rosary prior to the 11:00 AM Mass. Other Knights are Lectors, Ushers and Altar Servers. For seven years the Council was instrumental in providing leadership for the “Septemberfest”, which is a celebration of crafts, food and family activities. This was held on the church property. This festival was responsible for the elimination of the Church property mortgage by at least one-year and raised approximately $50,000.00.
Another fundraiser that the council was instrumental in the annual “Italian Night” which provides excellent authentic Italian cuisine and entertainment for 125 people. The chefs are the Past Grand Knight and his wife. One of the fun events that the council sponsor at least twice a year after the 11:00 AM Mass is a “BYOB” also known as “Bring Your Own Banana”. The members of the council then provide ice cream and all of the fixings for “kids” of all ages. Other activities for this very active council are Easter egg hunts, Halloween parties, visits from Santa Claus and recognition of the First Communion and Confirmation classes.
The council recently started an annual “Irish Night” to help raise funds for their annual support of seminarians from the Diocese of Charlotte. Members of Holy Spirit council are also active in the community supporting the East Lincoln Christian Ministry and other activities. There are at present 65 members in the council.
COUNCIL NUMBER 10495
ALBEMARLE, NC
The Rev. J. A. Cowan Council received its charter from the Supreme council on October 17, 1990 under District Deputy Robert Kachmarik. The council has met from its inception at the Family Life Center of Our Lady of the Annunciation Catholic Church in Albemarle.
The council was formed with the help of the founding Grand Knight Jack Snyder. Jack had been a Knight since 1972 and had been active in several positions with several councils.
The council is proud of the accomplishments and activities it has involved itself with over the years. Some of these activities are their Christmas program for the needy in the area. It is call the S. T. A. R. (Save Tears at Christmas) program. The men of the council ask for donated food and funds to purchase food. Food baskets are made up and delivered to those in need before Christmas. The council provides food baskets at Christmas to approximately 50 families in the area. This program has been in progress on a steady basis since 1991.
This council has been active in the L. A. M. B. project for several years and in recent years has expanded its area of coverage to adjoining counties to assist those who are in need. Each year the council holds a family picnic and is usually well attended by members, the wives and guest. A communion breakfast is held each year with the members and their families receiving communion in a body and then enjoying a breakfast and social time. In the past two years the communion breakfast has been held in the spring and the fall.
Once a year the council recognizes the services provided by the Alter Servers of the parish. They are provided a Certificate of Appreciation. For the past several years the Rev. J. A. Cowan Council has held a St. Patrick's Day Dinner/Dance in the Family Life Center. It has been an enjoyable affair.
On June 28, 1998 the council erected a monument dedicated to the unborn. This project was conceived and completed by members of the council. They received financial assistance from Our Lady of the Annunciation Catholic Church. Bishop William Curlin, Bishop of Charlotte, presided over a Mass and dedication ceremony. Fourth Degree Honor Guards were present from the Msgr. Lawrence C. Newman Assembly.
Another event the council is proud of is the completion and installation of a five foot Christmas Wreath each Christmas on the outside of the Church. The frame for this wreath was constructed by deceased member John Fuchs. Each year a number of members place boughs of evergreen on the frame and install it some 25 feet above the Church entrance.
The most prestigious award the Rev. J. A. Cowan council has received is the highest council award in the order, Star Council. This was obtained during the 1999-2000 Columbian Year. The members hope that it will be the first of many Star Council Awards that they will earn.
The men of the council who are Fourth Degree members respond several times a year to requests for their presence as Honor Guards. Though this council is small it has a very active Honor Guard who will respond when requested.
CHARTER OFFICERS
Grand Knight F. Jack Snyder
Chaplain Fr. Raymond Hourihan
Deputy Grand Knight F. J. Phillips
Chancellor Thomas Kelley
Recorder John Welsh
Financial Secretary Paul Patenaude
Treasurer Nelson Parks
Advocate John Schadt
Warden Jim Dawson
Inside Guard Wesley McManus
Outside Guard Humberto Fernando
Trustee 1 Year Bob Kovanda
Trustee 2 Years John Kostanesky
Trustee 3 Years Jim UlichCURRENT OFFICERS
Grand Knight Vince Cerullo, PGK
Chaplain Fr. Lawrence Heiney
Deputy Grand Knight Patrick Sabia
Chancellor Jack Snyder, PGK, FDD
Warden Gerald Maiden
Recorder Walter Deppe
Lecturer Robert Newkirk, PGK
Treasurer Richard Yorkovich
Financial Secretary Robert Foley
Advocate Charles Wriker
Inside Guard Charles Jernoske
Inside Guard William Peak
Outside Guard Gordon Hatley
Outside Guard Alma C. FarmerTrustee 1 Year Robert Newkirk, PGK
Trustee 2 Years Vince Lombardo, PGK, FDD
Trustee 3 Years Savey Trinca, PGK,FATHER JAMES A. COWAN
OUR NAMESAKE
The parish of Our Lady of the Annunciation in Albemarle, was founded in 1934 by Bishop William J. Hafey of the Diocese of Raleigh. Father James A. Cowan, a native New Yorker, had asked his Auxiliary Bishop, the Most Reverend John J. Dunn, DD to adopt and provide financial support for a southern mission. Bishop Dunn acceded to Father Cowan's wishes. A gift of $5000.00 to the parish was sent from Our Lady of the Annunciation parish in New York City.
Bishop Hafey appointed Father Cowan as first pastor, and he lived in a house located on newly purchased diocesan property. The house served as both church and rectory until the pastor could build a church which was dedicated by Bishop Hafey on September 4, 1934. Father Arthur Quinn, pastor of Annunciaiton Church in New York, assisted Bishop Hafey in the dedication and Father Thomas McDonnell, Director of the Propagation of Faith in the New York Diocese preached the homily. At that time there were nine Catholic families scattered through Albemarle, Badin, Troy and Wadesboro, North Carolina
In 1941, a new brick rectory was built. Although growth was slow, by 1943 there were 35 Catholic families located in Albemarle. New textile firms located in the area in the 1950's and by 1959, when the parish celebrated its Silver Jubilee there were 71 Catholic families in the area.
In 1966, as Father Cowan's health was deteriorating, he became pastor emeritus of the parish and Bishop Vincent Waters appointed Father Anthony Kovacic as administrator of the parish. Under his direction, a new parish hall was built on the property. It provided rooms for religious education and social activities.
Father Cowan, who had administered to the people of his parish for 34 years, died December 3, 1968. Bishop Waters presided at the funeral Mss and Father Cowan was buried in Belmont Abbey cemetery.
NUMBER 10504
WINSTON-SALEM, NC
On November 5, 1990 Our Lady of Mercy Council received its charter from the Supreme Council under the guidance of District Deputy Anthony Petite. The Charter Grand Knight was Michael A. Michel and the other officers of the council were:
Chaplain Father Canice Connors
Deputy Grand Knight Ray Joiner
Chancellor Pete Sexton
Warden David Evans
Recorder Bill Gavilan
Treasurer Felipe Villalay
Advocate Bob Anderson
Lecturer Dan Crandell
Inside Guard Frank Jones
Outside Guard Joe Cowen
Trustee 3 Years Butch Tomlinson
Trustee 2 Years Dave Shemelya
Trustee 1 Year Gene NitzSince the council's conception it has met at the Monsignor Neuman Center at Our Lady of Mercy.
The council is proud of the fact it began the annual K of C Bar B Que for the parish. It also had a hand in starting the softball team and other sports related programs. However, one of the most impressive programs in which the council is rightfully proud is that at the request of their pastor, the council undertook a major task of renovating an 85+ year old home that the parish purchased for use by the sisters of St. Joseph assigned to Our Lady of Mercy Parish. The house was unlivable and in horrible condition. The project took over 12 months to finish. The results were outstanding. The council was awarded the International Award for a Church Activity for this program by Supreme. Grand Knight Michael Michel and his wife Ann were flown to New York City with all expenses paid by Supreme to receive the award.
NUMBER 10505
CHARLOTTE, NC
ST. THOMAS AQUINAS COUNCIL 10505 WAS INITIATED INTO THE ORDER ON NOVEMBER 8, 1990 UNDER DISTRICT DEPUTY DICK KOPP. THE CHARTER OFFICERS OF THE COUNCILS WERE:
GRAND KNIGHT ROGER A. PAOLANGELI
CHAPLAIN FATHER FRANK BLOOD
DEPUTY GRAND KNIGHT JOE MULROONEY
RECORDER CHUCK SCHRIEFER
FINANCIAL SECRETARY BERNARD J. MOORMAN
TREASURER EDWARD GLODOWSKI
TRUSTEE JIM LITTLE
TRUSTEE ART MARMILLIONTHE COUNCIL FIRST MET AT THE PARISH HALL. THEY NOW MEET AT AQUINAS HALL AT ST. THOMAS AQUINAS CHURCH. OVER THE PAST YEARS THE COUNCIL HAS DONATED $12,000.00 TO THE CHURCH’S BUILDING FUND. $2,000.00 TO THE CHURCH FOR A STAINED GLASS WINDOW. EARNED ALMOST $100,000.00 IN CONCESSION STAND WORK BY MEMBERS. THE COUNCIL HAS CONSTRUCTED 8 HANDICAP RAMPS AT HOMES OF DISABLED PEOPLE, HOSTED LENTEN DINNERS WHICH INCREASED ATTENDENCE AT STATIONS OF THE CROSS. THE AVERAGE ROSE FROM 20-40 TO 200-250 IN ATTENDENCE. THE COUNCIL LANDSCAPED THE CHURCH GROUNDS FROM THE NEW CONSTRUCTION STAGE TO THE PRESENT. ST. THOMAS AQUINAS COUNCIL HAS ALSO HOSTED NUMEROUS PARISH FUNCTIONS AND PARTIES.
COUNCIL NUMBER 10615
MONROE, NC
Our Lady of Lourdes Council 10615 was received their charter from the Supreme Council on April 29, 1991. At this time Richard Kopp was the District Deputy. The charter members of this council were:
Grand Knight John W. Kelly
Chaplain Father Ed J. Vilkauskas, C.S. Sp
Deputy Grand Knight J. C. Headley
Chancellor Daniel P. Deroner
Treasurer James L. Goss
Financial Secretary Joe Jablonski
Warden N.C. Redfearn
Inside Guard N. D. Hess
Outside Guard R.C. Hellster
Trustee Raymond J. GanserWhen this council first began they met at the Community Center. They now meet at the Church Hall located at 725 Deese St. Monroe, NC.
The council has raised $2,000.00 for a new church.
Formed a Squires Circle
Serve meals at the local homeless center
Donated money to various charities
Collect money for the Operation LAMB program
Provide food for the poor on the 1st Sunday of each month.
Have an annual picnic at Cane Creek Park
Donated $100.00 to the Crisis Pregnancy Center
NUMBER 10783
HAMLET, NC
St. James Council 10783 was organized on January 14, 1992 under District Deputy Joseph Riley. The charter officers of the council were:
Grand Knight Ben A. Davis, Jr
Chaplain Rev. Martin J. Conroy
Deputy Grand Knight James C. Duncan
Chancellor Don Meany
Warden Richard Haugen
Recorder Tony M. Phillips
Treasurer Albert E. Yackley
Financial Secretary John Jackson
Advocate Victor Faries
Lecturer Tim Cagele
Inside Guard Tom Loh
Outside Guard Keith Ebbeskotte
Trustees Joe Morin
Henry Lauritch
Jim BreamSince the council first started that have met at the St. James Church Hall.
St. James Council is proud of their following awards:
Founders Award 1991-1992; 1996-1997 Ben Davis, GK
1996-1997 Don Meany, GK
Distinguished Council 1993-1994 Jim Duncan, GK
1995-1996 Don Meany, GK
1996-1997 Don Meany, GK
Honor Council 1992-1993 Ben Davis, GK
1994-1995 Jim Duncan, GK
Star Council 1995-1996 Don Meany, GK
LAMB Awards 1992-193-1994-1995-1996
1998-1999 and 2000
Vocation Sponsor Award 1992-1993, 1993-1994, 1994-1995, 1995-1996, 1997-1998
Local Awards 1997 Richmond County Hospice
Volunteer of Year-Religious
Church Awards Yearly support of the Youth Group trips
Annual BBQ for the St. James Building Fund.
COUNCIL 10852
CHARLOTTE, NC
St. Matthew Council 10852 was established on April 1, 1992 when they received their charter from the Supreme Council. The District Deputy at this time was Richard S. Kopp and the charter chaplain was Rev. Msgr. Joseph Kerin.
At the time of the council’s inception the officers were:
Grand Knight James S. Nass
Deputy Grand Knight Michael W. Brannon
Chancellor William L. McKenna
Advocate Thomas J. Gorman
Warden Henry S. McManus
Treasurer Charles M. Cashio
Financial Secretary Michael P. Buckley
Recorder Patrick J. Gallagher
Inside Guard Anthony W. Palermo
Outside Guard Doyle D. Coop
Lector Jerold Decsi
Trustee Teunis Visser
Trustee Francis Gill
Trustee William A. Fox IIIWhen the council was first formed they met at the Family Room of St. Matthew’s church. They currently meet at the Columbus Club of South Charlotte.
MAJOR ACCOMPLISHMENTS
1992-1993 With the help of our sponsoring Council, Saint Vincent De Paul (9560), our Council was granted a charter on April 1, 1992, and started with 74 Charter Members. Under the leadership of our Charter Grand Knight, James Nass, we immediately had a strong impact within Saint Matthew Parish and the community at large. During these first fraternal years, the council ran numerous family events such as an Easter Egg hunt, a Halloween Party, and sponsored a successful Parish Carnival to help raise money for Saint Matthew Church.
1993-1995 Saint Matthew Council quickly won the support and praise of the parish and steadily grew in membership and welcomed our 100th Brother Knight during this time. Continuing to build on our many programs we began our: “BREAKFAST WITH SAINT NICHOLAS”. This program successfully introduced the children of the parish to the story of the real Santa Claus. During the month of December we combined our Sunday “Pancake Breakfast” with this very popular event. A Brother Knight would be dressed as Saint Nicklaus; handout chocolate coins, and poises for free pictures with the children. Our hard work and many accomplishments were recognized when Council 10852 won its first “STAR COUNCIL AWARD” under the direction of our 3rd Grand Knight, Kenneth J. Conroy.
1995-1997 It was during these fraternal years that Saint Matthew Council became recognized as a force with North Carolina. Under the leadership of Grand Knight, Charles B. Bowling, Jr., the Council won its second and third “STAR COUNCIL AWARDS” and membership increased 400% over our goals set by the Supreme Council. The Council had the distinct privilege of having two of its members elected as Faith Navigators. William L. McKenna was elected as the Faithful Navigator of the George L. Gettier Assembly 780, and Arthur Fitzgerald as the Faithful Navigator of the Msgr. Lawrence C. Newman Assembly 2208. The Council also had the honor of acting as Ushers during Mother Teresa’s visit to Charlotte and saw the beginning of a close relationship with the Sisters of Charity and the support of their House here in Charlotte.
1997-1999 As the Council celebrated its 5th anniversary, it enjoyed explosive growth in membership and greater participation of Knights in the various charitable activities and programs. Thanks to the dedication and hardwork of Grand Knight, John Norton, Council 10852 could now boast of having more than 225 Brother Knights. Charity continued to be a major theme of the Council and was expanded with the “adoption” of “The Relatives Teen Shelter” as a community outreach program. In addition, one-time fund raising events resulted in the donation of over $10,000.00 given to a leukemia victim and the family of a child needing a bone marrow transplant. On top of this, the Council surpassed its “Operation Lamb” goal by 30%. During this period it became obvious that the Council was outgrowing the facilities of Saint Matthew Council Hall. A building fund began and locations within the vicinity of Saint Matthew Church were sought. In the summer of 1998, property was purchased, in South Carolina, on Bryant Farms Road, approximately 1 mile from Saint Matthew Catholic Church.
1999-2000 Prior to turning over the gavel to Dr. Timothy Clare in July 1999; Grand Knight, John Norton saw Council 10842 grow to over 300 members and was recognized by the Knights of Columbus, Supreme Council, for having attained more than 100 new members in a fraternal year. Another honor bestowed upon the Council was having our own Past Grand Knight, Charles B. Bowling, Jr., named the North Carolina State “Knight of the Year”.
COUNCIL 10891
ASHEBORO, NC
St. Joseph of Asheboro Council received its charter on May 19, 1992 under District Deputy Norm Taylor. The charter officers of this council were:
Grand Knight Matt Marbois
Chaplain Rev. Joseph Tustin
Dep Grand Knight Richard Sporcic
Chancellor Dave Sampson
Warden Steve Baltes
Recorder Bob O'Brien
Treasurer Roy Deza
Advocate Larry Perry
Trustee 1 Year Steve Trosley
Trustee 2 Year Walter Cotten
Trustee 3 Years Goodman Griffin
Outside Guard Daniel Lizardo
Inside Guard Steve DuboirThis council has had their business meetings at St Joseph's Catholic Church since its inception in 1992.
During their first year as a council they received the Operation LAMB Super Star Award in 1992. They have also won the Father McGiveny Award
in 1992, 1993, 1994 and 1997.
They have also won the Founders Award in 1992 and 1993. On July 26 1997 the council dedicated a monument to the unborn. This monument was placed on the church grounds and was dedicated by Bishop William Curlin, Bishop of Charlotte. The 4th Degree Honor Guard was present during this event.
NUMBER 10892
WENDELL, NC
The Msgr. Lou Morton Knights of Columbus Council 10892 was officially chartered in June of 1992, with 32 members. However, it took the work of many people we reach this point. Father Joe Gaul, our Charter Chaplain wanted a Knights of Columbus Council at St. Eugene's, and was determined to do everything he could. And he did. Back in the Summer and Fall of 1991, he talked to many men and spread the word that a Council of Knights would be great to have at St. Eugene's. He enlisted the help of John Mitricska (John did not need a great deal of prodding!) to spread the word as well. As a former Grand Knight of the Cary Council 6650, he had experience in convincing men that the Knights were a very worthwhile organization, and was successful at getting many of the men to join. Some of the early organizational meetings were sparse, but they soon began to grow in size and interest. Our District Deputy, Al Ruocchio was in attendance at virtually all of the meetings and helped give us ideas in forming the council as well. We were chartered in June 1992 with John Mitricska as the Charter Grand Knight and Rev. Joe Gaul as Chaplain.
Our charter year went well, even with most everyone still learning what they and everyone else were to do. It was a year of learning, as well as a year of doing. This was acknowledged at the State convention in May 1993, where the council received 3 awards, 1) Operation LAMB, first with a high average of funds collected per Knight and a total collection for this event of over $5000.000, 2) Newsletter, First in Division, 3) Distinguished Council, unusual for a beginning council in their first year. We also had many successful events and programs, such as a Spaghetti dinner, Sweetheart Basket, many successful youth activities, fun social and even established a great First Degree Team. It was a very good Charter (first) year. The upcoming year was to be better yet.
GRAND KNIGHTS OF COUNCIL 10892
John Mitricska 1992-1993
Tony Werner 1993-1994
Bob Mancuso 1994-1995
Gary Shouse 1994-1996
Barry Mote 1996-1997
Tom Scott 1997-1998
Jeff Rohde 1998-1999
Steve Sledge 1999- 2000
Tom Beneck 2000-2001
Chuck Rupert 2001-2002
Dave Wagner 2002-2003COUNCIL NUMBER 10910
CHAPEL HILL, NC
The Paul J. Trageser Council Number 10910 received its charter on June 17, 1992 under the guidance of then District Deputy Bruce Harris.
CHARTER OFFICERS
Grand Knight Juan Alva
Chaplain Rev. Phillip Leach
Deputy Grand Knight Thomas Chegash
Chancellor Eugene Drogos
Recorder Joseph McGowan
Financial Secretary Oldarico Datiles
Treasurer Donald T. Smith
Advocate William Burke
Warden Paul Fiorentino
Trustee George Winston
Trustee Drew Melvin
Trustee Edward Gill
When the council first was organized they held their meeting at the Youth House at St. Thomas More School. They now meet at St. Thomas More Church.COUNCIL NUMBER 11076
BELMONT, NC
On March 23, 1993 under District Deputy Richard Monahan Queen of the Apostles Council received its charter. Since their inception they have held their meetings and social functions at St. Benedicts Hall at Queen of the Apostles Catholic Church.
The charter officers of the council were:
Grand Knight Don Holler
Chaplain Msgr. Anthony C. Kovacic
Deputy Grand Knight Joseph O'Brien
Chancellor Charles J. Paluszak
Warden Philip B. Dellinger
Recorder George Burazer
Advocate Joseph Moses
Financial Secretary Carl Heil
Treasurer Robert L. Atterberry, Jr.
Guard Robert Geressy
Guard Dan Roy
Trustee 3 Years Pete Kinzer
Trustee 2 Years Tim O'Donohue
Trustee 1 Year Frank DellingerSt. Joseph's Catholic Church in Mt. Holly, NC was built in 1843 and is the oldest Catholic Church in North Carolina. In September Queen of the Apostles Council assumed all ground work and outside repairs for this historical church. During the next several years this council devoted many member hours and expense to improve the grounds of this old church. They had a bulldozer remove eight feet of brush from one and one-half acres of land to construct a parking lot. During this process they removed twenty seven trees from the property. These trees were overhanging the church building. They were able to rebuild a Grotto area with flowers and planters. Since this church has a cemetery on the property, the council was able to repair all twenty three damaged headstones which were made to look like new. This project took from November 1994 to April 1995. From October 1995 to July 1996 the members of this council repaired a one hundred foot rock wall along the northside of the cemetery. They have since maintained the property in good order and have provided over twenty tours of the church and property giving history lessons to guest. In 1998 they repainted two rear rooms of the church in which the priest lived in the 1800's plus they were able to reinforce pillars under the west wall of the church. St. Joseph's committee chairman and the Council Historian is the present council treasurer and Past Grand Knight Carl Heil.
Other areas of achievement for this council is a very successful L.A.M.B program in 1995 in which they were able to donate to ten local organizations. In 1996 they were able to raise $2000.00 to help defray the cost of a new roof at Queen of the Apostles Catholic Church. During 1997 this council was able to provide support to two seminarians studying for the priesthood plus one seminarian studying to be a Brother. Also during 1997 members were able to construct a ramp for a handicap family. In 1998 the council assisted with a church clean up drive and helped Holy Angels with their boat outing and had their church ice machine repaired. With the help of the District Deputy Queen of the Apostles Council was able to assist with the formation of a new Fourth Degree Assembly, The William Gaston Assembly Number 2531, by providing twenty seven Forth Degree candidates.
COUNCIL NUMBER 11101
GREENSBORO, NC
Saint Pius X Council received their charter from the Supreme Council on April 20, 1993. The charter officers of this council were:
Grand Knight Tom Brusnahan
Chaplain Father David Hyman
Deputy Grand Knight David Westmoreland
Treasurer Pearson Grane
Financial Secretary Charlie James
Recorder Bob Allmendinger
Chancellor Stephan Coats
Advocate Wayne Vohs
Inside Guard David Vogelpohl
Outside Guard Stephen Worgan
One Year Trustee Arubrey Arthur
Two Year Trustee John Marco
Three Year Trustee George Hayes
District Deputy Norm TaylorThis council currently holds their meetings at the Kloster Center of St. Pius X parish in Greensboro. They held their first meetings at the Franciscan Center, 233 North Greene Street, Greensboro.
The council is proud of the following events over the years:
1994 Operation LAMB Double winner 158% improvement
Oct 21, 1997 Established their 1st Degree Team
1998-1999 Star Council
1999-2000 Father McGivney Award
2000-2001 Father McGivney Award
2000 Operation LAMB 180% improvement
2000-2001 Contest of Champions 300 % gain
2001 Council Recognition Program
Membership Award
2002 Star Council
COUNCIL NUMBER 11102
CHARLOTTE, NC
Council 11102 received its charter from the Supreme Council on April 28, 1993. At the time of initiation the District Deputy was Richard S. Kopp. Charter officers of the council were:
Grand Knight Salvador A. Cawa
Chaplain Rev. Msgr. Thomas Burke
Deputy Grand Knight Calvin C. Wilson
Chancellor George M Sledge
Recorder James J. Ewers
Treasurer Clark Wicklund
Financial Secretary Richard g. Bloxsom
Advocate Vincent A. Coscia
Warden Richard G. Murphy
The council first had their meetings at Our Lady of the Assumption Catholic School. They now meet at the Columbus Swim and Tennis Club that is also the home to Council 7343.Some of the honors this council has received are:
June 1993 Initial Officers Installation
March 1994 Founders Award from the Supreme Council
Feb 1995 Fr McGivney Award from Supreme Council
Nov 1997 Founders Award from the Supreme Council
May 2000 Honor Council Award from NC State Council
Oct 2000 Columbus Award from Supreme Council
April 2001 Grand Knight VIP certificate from Supreme Council
June 2001 Distinguished Council Award from NC State Council
June 2001 Most Improved Council Award from NC State Council
Sept 2001 Star Council Award from Supreme Council
FATHER ROBERT T. LAWSON
COUNCIL NUMBER 11103PINEHURST, NC
Sacred Heart Council Number 11103, renamed Father Robert T. Lawson in February 2009, was initiated on April 28, 1993. The District Deputy at this time was Joseph Riley. The council first met at Sacred Heart Parish Hall and now meets at St. Anthony's Parish Hall.
Sacred Heart Council is very proud over what their council has achieved since their inception. The council was formed at the expressed desire of Father Lawson to have a parish based Knights Council. Many new members would be parishioners of Sacred Heart and of Sandhills Council Number 6528. District Deputy Joseph Reilly asked PGK Ray Gatti and PGK Len Haney to investigate the possibility of a new council.
Thirty five men attended the first organizational meeting and when the council formed it had 117 men, the largest charter group in the history of North Carolina. Then State Deputy Don Dubois and other State Officers were present at the organizational meeting. Sacred Heart Council attained the coveted Star Council Award in its first year of existence. Since then under Grand Knights Art Muccio, Vince Kaptur, George Godish, Len Campbell and currently GK Ray Gatti, the council has grown to 162 and into large council status. The council has attained several Star Council Awards as well as many accolades for its innovative and effective programs. The council has been awarded the Supreme Program Award and has hosted several golf tournaments.
The council has also been involved in supporting the growth and building program of their church. With the Knights leading the way on many of the church committees they have been able to build a new 3.5 million dollar church. With the influx of many young families the need for additional classrooms at the parish school was needed. This men of the council got to work and raised $15,000.00 in pledges toward the 3 million construction project. Sacred Heart Council has supported the Church, the Community, our members, youth and the people of their Parish in an outstanding manner ever since its organization.
CHARTER OFFICERS
Grand Knight SK Edward Blzszczyk
Chaplain Rev. Robert T. Lawson
Deputy Grand Knight Arthur Muccio
Chancellor Vincent Puleo
Recorder James hofrichter
Financial Secretary Joseph Scott
Advocate Frederick Bucci
Warden Larry McGartland
Lecturer Arthur Butler
Inside Guard Richard Smeeding
Outside Guard Lee Schoen
Trustee 1 Year Leonard Haney
Trustee 2 Years Robert Bilodeau
Trustee 3 Years Stephen BouchierCOUNCIL 11180
EDENTON, NC
Mother of Mary Council Number 11180 received it charter on October 12, 1992. At the time of this council's inception the District Deputy was John Piotrowski.
The council list among its successes their involvement with N. C. L. A. M. B. project. They have also been able to construct a monument in honor of the Unborn. The council has their meetings and conducts its business at St. Anne's Church in Edenton, NC
CHARTER OFFICERS
Grand Knight Bill McCarter
Chaplain Father Gene Grabowski
Deputy Grand Knight Leo Lavoie
Chancellor Jack Aylmer
Recorder Ronnie Smith
Warden Preston Sisk
Financial Secretary Pat Finn
Treasurer Archie Nugen
Advocate Robert Hand
Lecturer Charles Strauss
Inside Guard Ed Piligard
Outside Guard Tom Terranova
Trustee 1 Year Tom Gralton
Trustee 2 Years Henry Schandel
Trustee 3 Years Herb SchafferCOUNCIL 11234
WAKE FOREST, NC
This council received its charter from the Supreme Council on January 6, 1994 under State Deputy Jim Neely and District Deputy Tony Werner. The charter officers of this council were:
Grand Knight Mark Downing
Chaplain Rev Richard Turner
Deputy Grand Knight Robert Caprioli
Chancellor Gerald Gentle
Recorder Thomas Garcia
Financial Secretary Mike Ludwick
Treasurer Harry Gammon
Advocate Thomas Farr
Warden William Loschiavo
Outside Guard Michael Vargas
Inside Guard Richard Downing
Three Year Trustee Bob Kemple
Two Year Trustee John Hollard
One Year Trustee Ray VargasThe council first met in the small building behind the Stone Church on South Main Street. The Hope Lutheran Parish now resides at that location. It now meets in their new building at 520 West Holding Avenue. They hold their business meeting on the second Thursday of each month at 7:30 PM.
St. Catherine of Siena Council has won Honor and Distinguished Awards from the State for our great achievements. We have won the Star Council Award and many numerous OPLAMB awards. The council has a booth at the Raleigh Entertainment and Sports Arena. This booth involves all the groups within the Parish and the Parish School as well. It is from this booth on numerous occasions that the council was able to buy a flagpole for the school and Parish just before this past Easter. The American Legion Post #187 in Wake Forest b ought and gave us a 5x8 foot American flag to fly everyday the school is in session. The Honorable Jessie Helms had another 5x8 American flag donated to us that flew over the NC State Capital Building just prior to our Council’s chartering.
The council has come to the aid of the Parish, Community and whenever called upon and perform any given task requested of our Council.PAST GRAND KNIGHTS
Mark Downing 1994-1995
Bob Kemple 1995-1996
Al Therriault 1996-1997 1997-1998
David Aldrich 1998-1999
Jon Cochran 1999-2000Steve Gillem 2000-2001DISTRICT DEPUTIES
Tony Werner 1994-1997 under District 5 & 21
John Nussbaum 1997-1998, under District 8
Sandy Boykin 1998-1999 under District 21
John Nussbaum 1999 to present under District 8STATE DEPUTIES
James Neely State Deputy when Council started
Luther Stulz 1995-1997
John Harrison 1997-1999
Bob Singer 1999-2001The council currently has 77 members and has brought in 12 new members this year. This total is the most new members brought in since the council was chartered. Currently there are over 1,050 families in the Parish and they plan to strive for at least 10% of the families as members which means we need 28 more new members right now to achieve this goal. They hope to achieve this goal in 3-5 years. The Council Chaplain and Pastor is Sir Knight Reverend Bob Kus who is a Maryknoll Priest and this is his first parish. He is also a Registered Nurse. Father Kus believes in the Knights of Columbus and he tells this to the parishioners.
The council is giving out carnations this year to all mothers on Mother’s Day and plan to keep this a tradition as long as the council is in existence.
COUNCIL 11235
ROXBORO, NC
Father John B. Paro Council 11235 was organized and received its charter on January 6, 1994 under the guidance of District Deputy Bruce Harris. This charter office of the council were:
Grand Knight Anthony J. Festa, Jr
Chaplain Fr. Joseph Yaeger
Deputy Grand Knight Richard Craher
Chancellor William J. Biever
Warden Richard J. Reynolds
Recorder David Pennebaker
Financial Secretary Kenneth R. Emser
Treasurer Andrew Kleitch
Advocate Terry J. Turner
Inside Guard Bernard Mackin
Outside Guard Brian Starr
Three Year Trustee Matt Pecarina
Two Year Trustee Joseph DiBona
One Year Trustee Jack PoulsenSince its inception the council has met at St. Mary & Edward Social Hall.
Among the achievements of this council since they were first organized in 1994:
During the period July 13, 1994 to July 16, 1994 the council organized a relief effort for the Georgia Flood victims. This was achieved by using the local radio station to advise local residents to bring supplies that were needed. The council filled up a semi-truck trailer with supplies.
The Knights and their spouses used the radio station to send people to an area to give money toward the Oklahoma bombing fund. $13,568.00 was raised and sent to Oklahoma City. This amount of money was raised in just one day. For this great achievement the council received the North Carolina State Community Award.
On September 27, 1995 the council presented two volumes on the life of Christopher Columbus to the local library.
In July 1997 members of the council removed the old cabinets from the local library and replaced them with 9 new cabinets, saving the library $450.00 in construction cost.
This council has purchased and prepared food to be served at the Christian Center once a month. This has been an on-going event for the past four years.
For the past four years the council has picked up unsold bread from the local Food Lion supermarket and delivered it to the Christian Help Center and the Senior Citizen Center.
This council has constructed a 10 foot long work station with 12 storage cabinets and a table top for the Middle School Living Skills Class for the mentally handicapped.
In May 1997 this council donated $865.00 and 111 man hours to installing vinyl siding on the rectory.
The members of this council donate approximately 370 hours per year to maintain parish property, providing ushers, lectures and Eucharistic Ministers.
COUNCIL 11265
SMITHFIELD, NC
St. Ann's council received its charter on March 13, 1994. The charter District Deputy was Eugene Nimacheek. The officers who first guided this council during their first year were:
Grand Knight Al S. Varner
Chaplain Fr. Paul Brant
Deputy Grand Knight Robert Deaton
Chancellor Robert Vonn
Recorder Paul Molocha
Financial Secretary Will Sanders
Treasurer John Schreibeis
Lecturer Richard Skrovan
Advocate Eddie Williams
Warden Joe Tyo
Inside Guard Paul Ressel
Outside Guard Glenn Holder
Trustee 1 Year Albert Nelson
Trustee 2 Years Robert Barbour
Trustee 3 Years Paul EmblesThis meeting place for this council has been, since its inception, St. Ann's Parish Hall on the first and third Thursday of each month. The present chaplain of the council is Father Joe Mulroney who has been with the council since 1996.
A new church will be built in the near future between the cities of Smithfiled and Clayton. This will combine two communities of faithful. It will also aid recruitment for this young council and assist it in growing and being involved with many charitable project.
COUNCIL 11266
GARNER, NC
Father James Keenan Council 11266 was issued its charter by the Supreme Council on March 9, 1994. At this time the District Deputy was Al Rocchio. This has been a very active council and is proud of its many accomplishments. During their first year they were able to renovate a wing of St. Mary Mother of the Church. In doing so they were able to add fifty seats to the capacity. This project earned them the Supreme Council's Church Award as well as North Carolina State Council's Church Award. A feature article in the Colombia magazine described this project for all Knights to see. Also, during their initial year of existence the council was able to win the insurance award for net gain, the Father McGivney Award for membership and was named the Best Small Council in North Carolina.
During their second year they were able to win the Star Council Award as well as the Father McGiveny Award, the Columbian Award and again was named Best Small Council in the State.
During the 1996-1997 Columbian Year this council was named Honor Council and won the State Family Activity Award for their Octoberfest Celebration.
The council has contributed over $45,000.00 to Operation L.A.M.B.;
over $2,000.00 to Seminarian support and over $10,000.00 for Room at the Inn.
The council has always met at St. Mary Mother of the Church Hall.
KNIGHT OF THE YEAR AWARDS
1994-1995 Keith Stringer
1995-1996 Bill Mitchell
1996-1997 Keith Stringer
1997-1998 Mike ClarkFAMILY OF THE YEAR AWARDS
1994-1995 Mark Pfouts Family
1995-1996 Mark Pfouts Family
1996-1997 Randy Harris Family
1997-1998 Randy Harris FamilyNECROLOGY
SK Joseph "Red" Doherty Died 1996
SK John Burkhardt Died 1998
SK Carl Takas Died 1998
CHARTER OFFICERSGrand Knight Bill S. Mitchell
Chaplain Fr. Charles Mulholland
Deputy Grand Knight Keith Stringer
Chancellor Mark Pfouts
Recorder Ken Preiskorn
Warden Charles Weber
Financial Secretary Ken Reising
Treasurer Richard Saccoccia
Advocate Mike Clark
Inside Guard Tony Garcia
Outside Guard Terry HunsingerA BIOGRAPHY OF FATHER JAMES KEENAN
THIS COUNCIL NAMESAKE
(WRITTEN BY JUDY KEENAN MAHER, FATHER KEENAN'S NIECE AND GODCHILD)
On April the 13th, 1921 James F. Keenan was born to Sir Knight Thomas J. Keenan and Mary Hollard Keenan of 81 Walnut Street, West Brighton, Staten Island, NY and grew up there. Father Jim was one of what would eventually be, five brothers, Thomas, Joseph, John and Patrick. Fr. Keenan and his father were Fourth Degree members of the Knights of Columbus. They were charter members of Assumption Council in Port Richmond as well as member of the Governor Dongan Assembly. With the passing of his brother Joe in 1990 not much is known about his childhood other than pictures in an album. He received a Catholic school education, attending Sacred Heart grade school, then St. Peter's High School in New Brighton, Staten Island. Later while attending Brooklyn Academy he received his appointment to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, NY from Congressman James A. O'Leary.
He entered West Point in 1940 and graduated as part of one of the largest classes of his day, 514 cadets. He did this in only 3 years, a year ahead of schedule with a Second Lieutenant's commission in the coastal Artillery Corps in 1943. He would then be a participant in the Battle of the Bulge. Father Jim would eventually gain the rank of Captain and while serving in Bad Tolz, Germany as an assistant G-1 in the First Division. His duties earned him the Army Commendation Ribbon for his meritorious service in connection with his occupation duties. He separated from service as a Captain in the 82nd Airborne Division, Fort Bragg, North Carolina in 1947.
In August of 1948, Father Jim entered St. John's Seminary, Little Rock, Arkansas shortly after being discharged from the Army. He studied their for one year. The next year he entered St. Mary's Seminary in Roland Park, Baltimore, Maryland and remained there until he completed his studies in 1954.
At the ate of 33, Father James F. Keenan was ordained on May 27, 1954. In attendance were Thomas and Mary his proud parents, his four brothers and 8 year old Judy Keenan Maher (who provided this information). Father Keenan was ordained at 10:00 AM at St. Lawrence Church, Asheville, North Carolina. His ordination was conducted by the Most Reverend Vincent S. Waters, Bishop of Raleigh, North Carolina. He was now a priest in the Raleigh Diocese. His first Mass however was celebrated on June 6th 1954 at his home parish, Sacred Heart Church, West Brighton, Staten Island, NY. This celebration was also attended by family, several childhood friends and neighbors. A Fourth Degree Honor Guard was present formed by members of his Assembly as well as his father's Assembly. The Archpriest was Rev. Msgr. George C. Murdock, his Catholic chaplain while a cadet in the United States Military Academy at West Point. Rev. Thomas A. Shea his World War II chaplain in Germany was a co-celebrant. He spoke of family values and how they were instilled in Father Keenan as he was growing up. He stated during his sermon that those who were "faithful in civilian life, were sure to be faithful in military life, and that those who were careless in civilian life almost always were careless in military life." The Master of Ceremonies at his first Mass was a young theological student enrolled at Catholic University in Washington, DC named H. Charles Mulholland, who we all know is the council, as the charter chaplain and former parish priest.
Father Jim began his parish work at Edenton where he attended to Missions at Ahoskie and Williamston in 1954. He then served at St. Leo's in Winston-Salem. In 1956 Father Jim served as assistant pastor at Our Lady of Consolation Church in Charlotte. His first Pastorate was Holy Rosary at Lexington in 1958 and its Mission at Mocksville. His second Pastorate was at Christ the King at Kings Mountain and its surrounding Missions until 1963. He then went to serve as Pastor at The Queen of the Apostles Church at Belmont and St. Helen's Spencer Mountain. In Belmont he would stay until 1968.
Nearly 47 years of age in 1968 Father Keenan stated, "being aware of the great shortage of chaplains, I feel I must go where I am needed." With this he re-entered the U. S. Army as a chaplain with the rank of Captain and would spend the next 2 years in Vietnam. While there in Southeast Asia Father Keenan would earn the rank of Major and be awarded the Bronze Star.
Upon his return to the Raleigh Diocese on June 18, 1970 he was appointed Dean of the New Bern Area by the Bishop. That assignment was short lived for on November 30, 1970 he would then be assigned as Pastor of St. Mary, Mother of the Church in Garner while also serving as Director of Vocations for the Raleigh Diocese. He would serve this parish until 1973. Blackrobe, his dog, accompanied him on walks around the parish grounds. He loved the outdoors and enjoyed walking and biking. He would certify Girl and Boy Scouts for their bicycle safety badges. He would do or go wherever the Bishop asked and without complaint. He was simply doing what the Church asked of him, what Bishop Waters asked of him. He was consumed by his tasks as a priest. Many fellow priest were World War II Veterans, and they referred to him as Captain Keenan. Father Charlie stated he referred to everything around him in military terms. The rector was the "C.O.", a poor grade on a surprise test was a "failure of intelligence"; Rome was "HQ". Instead of saying good-bye, he would always bid you to "Take the High Ground". Father Charlie stated, "When you think of violence, we think of weapons. But there is also violence of the word. We can cut each other down with the word. But Jim never did that. He never said anything sharp or judgmental to or about anyone. He was a kind man. Father Charlie was quoted as saying, "Jim totally embraced the magnificent. His devotion to Mary never faltered. His kind of commitment is not readily understood in this culture."
After St. Mary's he would go on to serve as Pastor of Mother of Mercy in Washington, then Holy Spirit in Jacksonville, St Paul in Henderson, St. Joseph in Raleigh, then finally served in residence, at Immaculate Conception Church in Durham. While at what would be his final assignment, he dedicated more time to the Eucharist and Mary. Father Jim was spiritual director for the Rosary Crusade and the Fatima Apostolate, while a chaplain at the V. A. and Duke University Medical Centers. In spite of his own battle with cancer, Father Keenan spent most of his final days ministering to fellow patients until his death on April 7, 1988. Father Staib, then Pastor of Immaculate Conception is quoted as saying, "Father Keenan died as he lived, dedicated to serving others."
Else Alva, a member of Militia Immaculatae, remembers, "I was blessed to be with Father Keenan when he died". She continued, "he simply said, 'I'm in the hands of Jesus and Mary, It will be done'. She stated, "when he originally learned of his illness, he commented that he was ordaine_ in a Marion Year, 1954, and would die in a Marion Year, 1988." Bishop F. Joseph Gossman celebrated the Rite of Christian Burial for Father Keenan on April 9, 1988. He shared these comments, "He was a simple man in the very best sense of the word. People probably know him best for his devotion to Mary, the Mother of God, and in a special way to Our Lady of Fatima. Father Jim had led many retreats to the Fatima Shrine in Portugal. "I visited him on Tuesday (April 5th), the Bishop recalled. "I had no idea death was imminent. As I was leaving, he said to me 'we'll meet again on higher ground'. My last thought and prayer is that some day we all get the chance to meet Father Jim on Higher Ground.
COUNCIL 11406
MOUNT AIRY, NC
Mount Airy Council 11406 was chartered on July 25, 1994 by the Supreme Council. The District Deputy at this time was Philip Lamendola. The charter officers of the council were:
Grand Knight William Dressman
Chaplain Msgr. Arthur Duncan
Deputy Grand Knight John Quinn
Chancellor John Browne
Warden Ralph Miller
Recorder Gerald Metscher
Treasurer George Gates
Financial Secretary Robert Bradshaw
Advocate Gerald Michaud
1 year Trustee Dennis Altic
2 year Trustee Stephen O’Neill
3 year Trustee John PiersonSince the time the council started they have met at the parish hall of Holy Angels church. This council is very proud of the following accomplishments over the years:
Continuous support of the RSVP program; continued growth in the L.A.M.B. donations; in June 1999 the council hosted the Special Olympians from Guatemala to a cookout. The Guatemala team was in N. C. for the World Games held in Raleigh, NC.; council members renovated an old well building into a beautiful grotto housing a life sized statue of the Blessed Mother and Child; the council donated $750.00 to the parish for cement sidewalks on the parish grounds and also donated $1,000.00 to the Parish Church Building Fund.
COUNCIL 11467
CARY, NC
St. Nicholas Council came into being on December 6, 1994 under District Deputy Albert Ruocchio. This council has met at SS. Cyril & Methodius Byzantine Catholic Church since its inception. St. Nicholas Council has the distinction of having received its Charter on the Feast of St. Nicholas, December 6th. It has received the Distinguish Council Award every year since they started and was able to receive Star Council their second year.
St. Nicholas Council is the only Byzantine Catholic Council in the Carolinas.
The Charter officers for the council were:
Grand Knight Fred Campbell
Chaplain Father David Siroki
Deputy Grand Knight Ken Bopp
Chancellor Mike Harvilla
Advocate Paul Billow
Warden Andy Kollar
Financial Secretary Bob Wiggs
Treasurer Tom Vrabel
Recorder Walt Yanoschak
Guard Paul Kozak
Guard John MayernikTrustee 3 Years Dave Onofrio
Trustee 2 Years Mike Kollar
Trustee 1 Year Earnest MajorCOUNCIL NUMBER 11494
WHITEVILLE, NC
Columbus County Council received its charter on February 2, 1993. At the time of initiation Ed Chlebowski was the District Deputy. This council has met from the beginning at the Sacred Heart Church Parish Hall.
In 1995 Columbus County Council received an Operation L.A.M.B. Award at the North Carolina State Convention. Members of the council marched in the Lake Waccamaw Christmas Parade in 1998
The charter officers of the council were:
Grand Knight James McGeney
Chaplain Father Ken Parker
Deputy Grand Knight Bill Bouman
Chancellor Joe Gertz
Warden Laurie K. LaForte
Financial Secretary Paul Lombardi
Treasurer Ron Duchesneau
Advocate Terry Terrence
Inside Guard Butch Gallagher
Outside Guard Kenric LaForteCOUNCIL NUMBER 11683
FAYETTEVILLE, NC
Father William P. Ryan Council 11683 located in Fayetteville, NC was initiated into our Order on November 28, 1995. The North Carolina State Convention was held in Fayetteville, NC.
The State Officers at this time were:
State Deputy Luther J. Stultz
State Chaplain Rev. Thomas J. Gaul
Immediate Past State Deputy James L. Neely
State Secretary John A. Harrison
State Treasurer Robert J. Singer
State Advocate Anthony M. Petite
State Warden David L. OnofrioCOUNCIL NUMBER 11817
CASTLE HAYNE, NC
Father Roland Gross Council 11817 was initiated into the Order of the Knights of Columbus on June 19, 1996. The North Carolina State Convention was held in Fayetteville, NC in 1996.
The State Officers at this time were:
State Deputy Luther J. Stultz
State Chaplain Rev. Thomas J. Gaul
Immediate Past State Deputy James L. Neely
State Secretary John A. Harrison
State Treasurer Robert J. Singer
State Advocate Anthony M. Petite
State Warden David L. OnofrioCOUNCIL NUMBER 11848
CLINTON, NC
Father Thomas A. Williams Council 11848 received its charter from the Supreme Council on July 28, 1996. The State Convention was held in Winston-Salem, NC.
The State Officers at this time were:
State Deputy Luther J. Stultz
State Chaplain Father Thomas Gaul
Immediate Past State Deputy James L. Neely
State Secretary John A. Harrison
State Treasurer Robert J. Singer
State Advocate Anthony M. Petite
State Warden David OnifrioCOUNCIL NUMBER 11911
ASHEVILLE, NC
On January 30, 1997 St. Eugene’s council was formed under District Deputy Orin Lundgren. The founding chaplain was Father Frank Cancro. The charter Grand Knight was Tracy Page. Other council officers included:
Deputy Grand Knight Tom Greenlee
Financial Secretary Fleming Browne, Jr
Treasurer Roy Browne
Warden Joe YoungWhen the council was first formed they held their meetings at the Asheville Catholic School. They now meet at St. Eugene Parish Social Hall.
Some of the accomplishments for this young council have been their forming their own First Degree Team, earning Star Council for the 1998-1999 Fraternal Year, conducted the parish wide Capital Campaign in which they raised money to assist in building a new parish building. The council has also been active in the L.A.M.B project since their inception.
COUNCIL NUMBER 11946
SHELBY, NC
Rev. Michael J. Hoban Council 11946 was founded in March 1997. The council meets in St. Mary’s Parish Hall.
The charter Grand Knight was Lucian Matayer and they have a present membership of 70.
LAMB drives have been successful for this council. They were able to collect approximately $20,000.00 since their inception.
COUNCIL NUMBER 11966
BOONE, NC
The council was given its charter by the Supreme Council on April 26, 1997 while under District Deputy Richard Taylor. The charter officers of the council were:
Grand Knight Steve Kelly
Chaplain Rev. Conrad Hoover
Deputy Grand Knight Peter Catoe
Chancellor Jim Deni
Recorder Jerry Moody
Financial Secretary Joe Barnes
Treasurer Leon Lundie
Advocate Nathan Seamone
Warden Ed Rossi
Inside Guard Robert Potts’
Outside Guard Richard Schalk
Trustee 1 Year Robert Broadbridge
Trustee 2 Years Carl Steiger
Trustee 3 Years Michael WeathersSince the council was formed it has met at St. Elizabeth of the Hills Catholic Church.
The council is proud of some of its accomplishments over the years. They believe the following will show how this council is dedicate to the ideals of the Knights of Columbus:
Fund raising efforts on behalf of the Catholic mission in India of Fr. Thomas in 1998. Fr. Thomas is providing an apartment building in the city to house young village women who are forced to provide income to their family’s back home. Fr. Thomas has tried to create a safe working and living environment for the girls whom otherwise might be forced into prostitution. The council has also been a regular contributor, since 1997, to the Woodend Academy here in Boone, which offers young women who must drop out of high school because they are pregnant a chance to get their high school diploma. Besides a monthly donation, the council initiated a mini baby shower in the parish (a 2000 project), which given parish families a chance to give clothing, diapers, baby furniture, and other newborn items to the girls. Many of the girls are on their own and unable to work. Although a small parish and council we are successful in starting a Squire Circle during our charter year. We are also proud of the Right To Life bench (a 1999 project) that was donated by one of our members, engraved through Council funding, and installed jointly by the Knights and Squires. The Squires raised money to purchase the landscaping material and planted the material under the supervision of Council members. The landscaping was done under the existing 18 foot cross on the lawn of St. Elizabeth of the Hills Church. Also, in 1999, the council sponsored a rummage sale to raise funds to build a church in Africa. Since our initial charter, the council has focused on “service” to our community and parish. Slowly since 1997, the council has built a reputation for giving service to anyone in need. For example, in 2000 a group of Knights replaced a set of dilapidated stairs at the trailer home of an elderly homebound couple. All our work has been accomplished with a membership of about 35 men. Although we constantly struggle to add new members, we are still able to great things with small numbers every year.
COUNCIL NUMBER 12017
WILMINGTON, NC
FATHER JAMES E. WATERS COUNCIL 12017 WAS ESTABLISHED ON JULY 17, 1997 UNDER DISTRICT DEPUTY CARL BLACK. THE CHARTERED OFFICERS OF THE COUNCIL WERE:
GRAND KNIGHT JAMES McNAMARA
CHAPLAIN FR. MATTHEW HENDRICK
DEP GRAND KNIGHT THOMAS McGANN
CHANCELLOR FRANK TURTURRO
WARDEN FRANK KURY
RECORDER VINCENT CUSICK
TREASURER JOHN CRAMER
ADVOCATE PAUL DENCIO
INSIDE GUARD MARK GROSSER
OUTSIDE GUARD ARTHUR ELSON
LECTURER RON VETTER
TRUSTEE FRANK PINKSON
TRUSTEE BILL KEPLESKY
TRUSTEE CHARLES HAWKINSTHE COUNCIL HAS MET SINCE THEIR BEGINNING AT ST. MARK’S CHURCH.
THIS COUNCIL IS INVOLVED WITH THE FOLLOWING ACTIVITIES:
RIGHT TO LIFE MOVEMENT AT THE CHURCH; OPERATION LAMB; RSVP PROGRAM; KEEP CHRIST IN CHRISTMAS CARDS; GOLF TOURNMENT; MEN’S PARISH RETREAT; MEMORIAL AND HEALING MASS. THE COUNCIL ALSO HAS IT OWN FIRST DEGREE TEAM.
COUNCIL NUMBER 12025
RALEIGH, NC
Our Lady of Lourdes Council 12025 was initiated on June 27, 1997 under District Deputy Thomas Cronin.
The charter officers of this council were:
Grand Knight P. Nick Cotrill
Chaplain Father Jeffrey Ingram
Deputy Grand Knight Andrew Ruskinko
Warden Bob Klein
Treasurer Steve Ashcraft
Financial Secretary John D’Amelio
Lecturer Dave Di Filippo
Trustee Gerald Wassil
Trustee Dennis CarterSince the council began they have met at Our Lady of Lourdes school cafeteria.
Some of the major accomplishments of this council have been:
The raising of over $5,000.00 for Birth Choice
They have contributed countless hours of service to the school, grounds and community of Our Lady of Lourdes Parish.
For three consecutive years the council placed 4,000 flags in honor of the unborn during the Pro-Life March weekend.
The council sponsors and host a monthly pancake breakfast for the parish with the proceeds going to various charities and needs in their community.
COUNCIL 12119
FUQUAY-VARINA, NC
Council 12119 came into existence on December 7, 1997 when it received its charter from the Supreme Council. At the time the council came into being it was guided by District Deputy Keith Stringer. The charter officers of the council were:
Grand Knight Jim O'Donnell
Chaplain Fr. H. Charles Mulholland
Deputy Grand Knight Tim Guju
Chancellor Jim White
Warden Bill Seiberling
Recorder Kevin Kain
Advocate George Martin
Financial Secretary Ron LeBlond
Treasurer Dan Virgilio
Inside Guard Paul Barge
Outside Guard Chris Holmes
Trustee 3 Years Kevin Figg
Trustee 2 Years John Byrne
Trustee 1 Year Jerry HiattSince its inception the council has held their meetings and social events at St. Bernadette's Catholic Church. During their first LAMB Operation this council collected $3,500.00 and sold 80 State Raffle tickets.
It has also exceed its membership goal and holds a St. Patrick's Day dinner.
Council 12119 took the name of Father Albert J. Todd, Fr. Todd was a parish priest in Garner, NC who was instrumental in starting St. Bernadette's Church in Fuquay-Varina.
COUNCIL NUMBER 12167
KANNAPOLIS, NC
St. Joseph of Kannapolis Council 12167 began on March 1, 1998 when they received their charter from the Supreme Council. At the time they were under the leadership of District Deputy Jack Snyder.
The charter officers of the council were:
Grand Knight David Wellmon
Chaplain Father Karl Aschmann
Deputy Grand Knight Carl Ross
Chancellor Ken Hillberry
Treasurer Moses Smith
Financial Secretary Frederick Bates
Advocate Richard Prymock
Lecturer Philippe St. Pierre
Trustee 3 years Ralph Clark
Trustee 2 years Lewis Reid
Trustee 1 year Len SpaettiFor a relatively small council St. Joseph of Kannapolis is heavily involved in church activities and community. There are less than 50 members and the output of work shows that they have members who are committed to the principles of the Knights of Columbus.
COUNCIL NUMBER 12233
BURNSVILLE, NC
Father Andrew Graves, S.J. Council was formed on June , 1998 in Burnsville, NC. This council covers a large area including the counties of Yancey, Madison and Mitchell in the Black Mountains of North Carolina. This area is very rugged with mostly winding mountain roads. Included in this area is Mount Mitchell which is the highest mountain west of the Mississippi River. At the time of organization of this council Brother Orrin K. Lundgren was the organizing District Deputy.
The charter officers of the council were:
Grand Knight J. Dennis Alcock
Chaplain Father Edward Ifkovits
Deputy Grand Knight Gordon Keath
Chancellor Jim Donaghy
Treasurer Goddard Kennedy
Lecturer Jeff Ledford
Recorder Bob Kaeff
Financial Secretary Harry Hamelink
Warden Mike Moore
Guard Ernesto Villoch
Guard Margarito MartinezSince the council started it has held its meetings and social events at Sacred Heart Catholic Church hall. The council was organized in less than 90 days.
COUNCIL 12266
FOREST CITY, NC
On June 25, 1998 Immaculate Heart of Mary Council received its charter from the Supreme Council. Ron Rogers was the District Deputy at this time. In the short time this council has been in existence the members have been very busy. After Holy Redeemer Church was destroyed by an arson fire in Kill Devil Hills the council was able to rise $842.40 toward reconstruction. Members have renovated their church on the outside and repaired the roof. They were also able to perform major repairs on the inside of the church building.
This council donated a statue of the "Sacred Heart of Jesus" to Father Meehan at a cost of $850.00. As if this was not enough for a new council they were able to start a youth bowling league. They have designated the first Wednesday of each month as the council prayer night with a Rosary and Benediction.
The Charter Officers were:
Grand Knight Ronald J. Dangelo
Chaplain Rev Gabriel Meehan
Deputy Grand Knight Thomas LaBreche
Chancellor Robert Yellico
Recorder Joe Simmons
Financial Secretary Joe Maimone
Treasurer Henry Saul
Advocate Mike Conti
Lector Jimmy Cilone
Warden Wayne Westbrook
Trustee John Skudlarik
Trustee Larry Gardner
Trustee Paul KerseyCOUNCIL 12267
KING, NC
King-Good Shepherd Council 12267 received its charter from the Supreme Council on June 25, 1998. The North Carolina Convention was held in Durham, NC.
The State Officers at this time were:
State Deputy John A. Harrison
State Chaplain Very Reverend Francis J. O’Rourke
Immediate Past State Deputy Luther J. Stultz
State Secretary Robert J. Singer
State Treasurer Anthony M. Petite
State Advocate David N. Onofrio
State Warden Phillip LamendolaCOUNCIL 12281
HAMPSTEAD, NC
Saint Jude the Apostle Council 12281 received its charter from Supreme Council on August 11, 1998. Our charter Worthy Grand Knight was Harry J. Hansen III. Our council has grown to a total of 71 members as of July 1, 2005.
Our council contributed $1,000.00 towards the construction of facilities in a new KIWANAS Park being built in Hampstead.
Our council contributes $600.00 annually to the Pender County Meals on Wheels program.
Our annual fund raisers include a St. Patrick’s Day Corn Beef and Cabbage dinner, a Spaghetti Dinner, and a Chicken Dinner.
Our council also participates in the NC State raffle and the NFL Football Pool.
Since our inception Council 12281 has raised over $40,000 for LAMB, which includes a record of $10,843.50 in 2004. Over $9,000.00 of that 2004 money went to Pender County Special Olympics and local schools.
Our Ray Fitzpatrick Memorial Scholarship annually contributes $1,000.00 to a local senior student attending either Topsail or Dixon High School.
2005-2006 COUNCIL OFFICERS
Grand Knight – Salvatore Ferrotti –fgrandpasal@aol.com
D Grand Knight Norman Risch
Chancellor – Richard Mullenniex
Recorder – Harry J Hansen III
Treasurer – Charles Brady
Financial Secretary – Bob Balderson – baldersr@bellsouth.net
Advocate – William Walsh
Warden – Guy Deadato
Inside Guard – Richard Dyer
Outside Guard – William Blatt
Trustee 1 year – Paul Pozzi
Trustee 2 years – Darwin Peterson
Trustee 3 years – Donald KostelnyCHARTER OFFICERS
Grand Knight - Harry J. Hansen III
Chaplain - Rev. Casimir Sabol, OFM Conv
Deputy Grand Knight - John Craig
Chancellor - Nicholas LaSlavic
Recorder - Allen Allocco
Treasurer - Italo Rastelli
Financial Secretary - John Shriver
Advocate - William Gnadt
Inside Guard - Thomas Brock
Outside Guard - Donald Kostelny
Trustee 1 Year - Thomas Brady
Trustee 2 Years - Thomas McNeill
Trustee 3 Years - Raymond NewberryCOUNCIL NUMBER 12455
RALEIGH, NC
Saint Luke the Evangelist Council 12455 located in Raleigh, NC received its charter from the Supreme Council May 20,1999. The charter Grand Knight of this council was Tony Behe.
The officers of this council are:
Grand Knight Joe Sander
Chaplain Rev. Father David Brockman
Deputy Grand Knight Joe Cox
Chancellor Joseph J. Rothengast
Warden Matthew L. Petrovick
Recorder Larry M. Opansenko
Financial Secretary David P. Ottney
Treasurer Terrance E. Whalen
Inside Guard Richard F. Hoffman
Outside Guard Cyril J. Miller
Trustee 3 Years Ray M. Heatherington
Trustee 2 Years Francis T. Sancineto
Trustee 1 Year Anthony BeheCOUNCIL NUMBER 12478
MAGGIE VALLEY, NC
Father Michael W. Murphy received its charter from the Supreme Council on June 11, 1999.
The State Officers at this time were:
State Deputy John A. Harrison
State Chaplain Father Frank O’Rourke
Immediate Past State Deputy Luther J. Stultz
State Secretary Robert J. Singer
State Treasurer Anthony Petite
State Advocate David Onofrio
State Warden Philip LamendolaCOUNCIL NUMBER 12481
LEXINGTON, NC
Saint Francis De Sales Council 12481 was initiated into the Order of the Knights of Columbus on June 15, 1999.The State Officers at this time were:
State Deputy John A. Harrison
State Chaplain Father Frank O’Rourke
Immediate Past State Deputy Luther J. Stultz
State Secretary Robert Singer
State Treasurer Anthony Petite
State Advocate David Onofrio
State Warden Philip LamendolaCOUNCIL NUMBER 12537
SOUTHPORT, NC
Sacred Heart Council number 12537 was initiated into our Order on August 25, 1999 when they received their charter from the Supreme Council. During this council's short existence they have been able to build their membership to 78 brothers. They have also started a monthly newsletter and had an insurance night with 56 people present. A Rosary devotion was also held. With involvement in Operation LAMB and a Free Throw competition makes this a very busy young council.
The District Deputy at the time of formation of this council was Anthony Santino. The council meets in the Parish social hall.
The Charter Officers for this council were:
Grand Knight Donald Meyer
Chaplain Father Doug Lawson
Deputy Grand Knight John Astoske
Chancellor John O'Neill
Warden John B. Long, Jr.
Advocate Robert Kleio
Recorder Richard Hunt
Treasurer William Malvey
Guard Paul Tolano
Guard Calvin Hicks
Trustee Duane Stuker
Trustee Henry Hall
Trustee George LatzyCOUNCIL NUMBER 12610
MOCKSVILLE, NC
St. Francis of Assisi Council 12610 received their charter from the Supreme Council on January 1, 2000. The charter Grand Knight was Roger Hunckler and the District Deputy at the time of founding was Matt Reilly. Other charter members are:
Chaplain Father Andrew Draper T.O.R.
Deputy Grand Knight Gerald Wilkie
Financial Secretary Pat Hennely
Treasurer Todd Jones
Program Director Jim Gildein, PGK
The brothers of this council have met since their inception at Bob Ginther’s Hall.In their short existence the council has been very active and has involved itself with the following programs:
Operation LAMB in which their first year grossed $6,500.00
Started the council as a new millennium council with a charter date of January 1, 2001.
A fish fry program; Mardi Gras; Knight at the races; Church cleanup and painting.
Also, rebuilding the rectory stairs.
Have had several blood drivers and a wife’s appreciation night.
COUNCIL 12640
FAYETTEVILLE, NC
On Sunday, February 27, 2000, members of St. Michael the Archangel Maronite Catholic Church held its preliminary meeting of Brother Knights of Columbus in order to seek consensus to start their own KofC Council at the church. The meeting was chaired by the State Deputy, Bob Singer, with State Treasurer, Dave Onofrio, and District Deputies, Al Adkins and Wayne Klevin, in attendance. Brothers from the church and other councils were in attendance.
For several months previously, Father Jack Morrison had attempted to recruit men from the parish to share his dream of beginning a council. Thirty-two men initially responded and began the meeting. The Charter contains 36 names, including Father Francis Marini, the Chancellor of the Maronite Catholic Diocese for the eastern USA, based in Brooklyn. NY.
The Eparch, Sayedna Stephen Hector Doueihi, also expressed interest in joining the council. Special thanks are due to Mr. Daniel Barton for his efforts and hard work recruiting potential members.
The Knights immediately hosted a pancake breakfast on March 5, 2000, headed by Steve Berti and began cleaning up the rectory grounds on two weekends in March 2000 headed by Dan Barton. Additional activities include:
Raising funds for a Memorial to Unborn Children. This is a nationwide effort by the KofC to raise awareness for Pro Life. Nearly 3/4 of the goal has been reached.
Donating to a KofC bell for the Church Bell Tower. The goal was reached in May 2000.
Raising funds for retarded children in the fall. This is also a nationwide effort by the KofC to donate local and national funds for these unfortunate children.
Celebrating the Election of Officers for the Fraternal Year, 2000-2001 with a local KofC Picnic in July 2000.
Leading the month rosary before Mass on the First Sunday of the Month and all Sundays in May and October. Brothers Ron Foster and Matt McGarry organized this effort.
On March 26, 2000, the State and District Deputy installed the Council Officers.
The Official Start Date of the St. Maron Council #12640 is March 2, 2000, the Holy Day of Saint John Maron, the First Patriarch of the Syriac Maronite Catholic Church. The Council is the first active KofC Maronite Council. The second Maronite Council is the St. Sharbel Council in Miami, FL.
The Initial Officers were:
Chaplain: Father Jack Morrison, Parish Priest
Grand Knight: PGK Jim Rorke
Deputy Grand Knight: John Handley
Financial Secretary: PGK Daniel Barton
Treasurer: Sal Saikali
Advocate: Jerry Olack
Warden: Ben Jenkins
Recorder: Brian Chase
Inside Guard: Alex Cohn
Trustee #1: Nels Kinnerup
Trustee #2: Matt McGarry
Trustee #3: Chris Cooper.Several Knights attended the Supreme Council's National Founder's Day at the Basilica in Washington, DC. The Grand Knight visited the Supreme Council Headquarters in New Haven, CT, on May 12, 2000. The pastor, Father Jack Morrison, is planning to participate in the 4th Degree in October 2000.
The Grand Knight, Dr. Jim Rorke, opens each monthly meeting with a gavel donated by the State Deputy, Bob Singer. The gavel was made from the wood of trees damaged in Hurricane Floyd in 1999.
The Church/Council web-site is still under construction at www.stmichaelsmaronite.org. Also see www.stmaron.org for more details.
When in Fayetteville, celebrate Liturgy with our council, the first active Maronite Catholic Council, at St. Michael the Archangel Maronite Catholic Church.
COUNCIL NUMBER 12654
HUNTERSVILLE, NC
Saint Mark's Council number 12654 received their charter from the Supreme Council on March 29, 2000. District Deputy Matt Reilly was instrumental in starting this council. The charter officers of this council are:
Grand Knight Mike Leahy
Chaplain Msgr. Joseph Kerin
Deputy Grand Knight Barry McCaa
Chancellor Tom McGuhey
Warden Ed Stokes
Advocate Marty Brennan
Recorder Dan Tilton
Financial Secretary Ed Russo
Treasurer Craig Lewis
Guard Rich Cairns
Trustee Bob Musa
Trustee Jim Harnett
Trustee Jim McDavidThis business meeting for this council is held on the first Monday of each month at 7:30 p.m. at St. Mark's Church. On March 12, 2000 the forming council held an Open House. They attracted members to start the council and received their charter on March 29, 2000.
COUNCIL NUMBER 12832
MINT HILL, NC
St. Luke’s council 12832 was established on December 10, 2000 under District Deputy David Jones. The charter Grand Knight was Dan Rains. The council meets at St. Luke’s Catholic Church in Mint Hill, NC
Charter Officers of this council included:
Deputy Grand Knight Kurt Heckert
Chancellor Paul Nunziata
Warden Chris Bezek
Recorder Mick Mitten
Advocate Rich Rooney
Financial Secretary Ray Brooks
Outside Guard Jack Ribosh
Inside Guard Tom Galuski
Trustee 3 Years Bill McGunnes
Trustee 2 Years Walt Skridulis
Trustee 1 Year Bill HammCOUNCIL NUMBER 12885
WRIGHTSVILLE BEACH, NC
St. Therese Council was instituted on February 24, 2001 under District Deputy Tony Santino. The council meets at St. Therese Church in Wrightsville Beach, NC.
The Charter Officers of this council are:
Grand Knight Jack Craig
Chaplain Father Gene Grabowski
Deputy Grand Knight G. Van Nosdall
Chancellor D. Alford
Warden J. Edens
Recorder(s) W. Coverdale and Larry Yemma
Treasurer F. Keenan, Jr
Financial Secretary J. Power
Advocate R. Edwards
Lecturer B. Lindgren
Inside Guard B. Cantwell
Outside Guard G. Amedy
Trustee 3 Years J. DeRobertis
Trustee 2 Years L. Ferrell
Trustee 1 Year R. MeekDirectors
Program Director G. Van Nosdall
Membership L. Yemma
Church J. Colby
Community B. Weber
Council W. Murphy
Youth G. Van Nosdall
Family B. Arthurs
LAMB F. KeenanCOUNCIL NUMBER 12921
WALLACE, NC
Father Bernardine Golden Council 12901 was formed on May 14, 2001 when it received its charter from the Supreme Council. The District Deputy who assisted in the formation of this council was Wayne Kleven.
The charter officers were:
Grand Knight James C. Peterson
Chaplain Father Drew Perry
Deputy Grand Knight Milton R. Swinson
Chancellor Kirby Smith
Warden Luis Galan
Recorder Thomas Bierwiler
Treasurer Frank O’Brien
Financial Secretary John A. Ricci
Advocate Denis Schembri
Inside Guard Zara Ezzell
Outside Guard William Dail
Trustee 3 years John Peipmeyer
Trustee 2 years Dave Bray
Trustee 1 year David SmithThe council has meet from their beginning at the Transfiguration church hall. The members were able to organize the council within a marathon two week period. Their first L.A.M.B drive was very successful and the council was able to collect $4000.00 for the mentally retarded children of their area. There had not been a L.A.M.B drive in the area in ten years.
COUNCIL NUMBER 13016
SWANNANOA, NC
SAINT MARGARET MARY COUNCIL 13016 WAS INITIATED INTO OUR ORDER ON DECEMBER 5, 2001. AS OF THIS WRITING THIS COUNCIL IS FIVE MONTHS OLD.
THE COUNCIL WAS FORMED UNDER DISTRICT DEPUTY THOMAS (DAVE) SMITH AND CHARTER GRAND KNIGHT JOSEPH MADDEN. THE CHARTER CHAPLAIN IS FATHER ANDREW LATSKO. THE COUNCIL MEETS AT ST. MARGARET MARY CHURCH.
DURING THEIR SHORT EXISTENCE THIS COUNCIL HAS BEEN ABLE TO HAVE AN INSTALLATION DINNER, ADOPT A HIGHWAY PROJECT, VOLUNTEER FOR SPECIAL OLYMPICS, HAD A SUPPORT OUR PRIEST SUNDAY, HAD AN EASTER EGG HUNT FOR THE CHILDREN AND HAD A FUNDRAISER WITH TICKETS TO THE BILTMOE ESTATE IN ASHEVILLE, NC.
OTHER CHARTER OFFICERS OF THIS COUNCIL ARE:
DEPUTY GRAND KNIGHT GEORGE FRAZIER
CHANCELLOR EDWARD PAPAY
WARDEN DAVID LAW
RECORDER PAUL McCRANE
ADVOCATE JOHN (CHRIS) GIBBS
FINANCIAL SECRETARY ANTHONY MARCACCIO
TREASURER RODOLFO VALENCIA
3 YEAR TRUSTEE DONALD QUARLES
2 YEAR TRUSTEE WILLIAM ARMSTRONG
1 YEAR TRUSTEE DONALD BLASERCOUNCIL NUMBER 13038
WILLIAMSTON, NC
OUR LADY OF GUADALUPE COUNCIL 13038 IS THE FIRST SPANISH SPEAKING COUNCIL IN NORTH CAROLINA. THE COUNCIL WAS FORMED UNDER GRAND KNIGHT OMAR WALLE. OTHER CHARTER OFFICERS OF THE COUNCIL WERE:
DEPUTY GRAND KNIGHT GENE TRANBARGER
CHANCELLOR ROBERTO HERNANDEZ
FINANCIAL SECRETARY JOHN MAIOLO
RECORDER RODOLFO SOLIS
WARDEN FRANCIS CROCHET
TREASURER PEDRO ALCOCER
LECTURER GONZALO LUEVANOS
ADVOCATE KURIAN VINOY
INSIDE GUARDS DANIEL GARCIA
OUTSIDE GUARD BOB CONNELLY
D1 YEAR TRUSTEE JOHNNY W. RODGERS
2 YEAR TRUSTEE FRANCISCO J. SOLIS
3 YEAR TRUSTEE RICHARD A. BIR, JRCOUNCIL NUMBER 13220
CAMP LEJEUNE U.S.A. MARINE BASE
JACKSONVILLE, NC
Saint Francis Xavier Council 13220 received their charter from the Supreme Council on November 25, 2002. The council is based on the Camp Lejeune Marine Base in Jacksonville, NC.
The Charter Officer of this council are:
Grand Knight Daniel J. Callan
Chaplain Father Aidan Logan
Deputy Grand Knight Robert C. Morash
Chancellor William L. Burke
Warden Anthony C. Marroquin
Recorder James G. Apriesnig
Financial Secretary Cecil L. Higginbotham
Treasurer Ronald A. Fortin
Advocate Robert A. Wukich
Outside Guard John H. Cassidy
Inside Guard Thomas A. Cassidy
Trustee 3 Years David Appleton
Trustee 2 Years Bryan A. Ruth
Trustree 1 Years Alfredo E. Baker
Program Director Dennis M. Bradley
Membership Director Lenny QuemuelOther charter members of this councils were:
Dennis J. Bowden, Jr Renner M. Cameron Rob Couser
Jude C. Dike Ryan J. Dupre Erik D. Gartzke
Bryan E. Greenlee Elwood J. Gunter Michael D. Henson
Marty Klotz Oscar A. Martinez Tracy R. Mase
Patrick McDonald Derrick K. Oliveira Dante F. Pabillore
Bethmans J. Picard Cameron M. Renner Joseph P. Riley
Sidney J. Root Jose A. Ruiz-Perez Thomas W. Shaner
Peter C. Spurr Thomas J. Tragesser Kevin V. Vail
Charles W. Van Horne Christopher A. Van-Niel Joe WerrellCOUNCIL NUMBER 13488
NEW RIVER, NC
The Col. Jerry W. Marvel Council #13488 was the second military based council to be formed in North Carolina. The council's namesake is Col. Jerry W. Marvel, USMC who was a Prisoner of War in Vietnam for almost six years and a former Commanding Officer of MCAS New River. The council serves Our Lady of Loreto parish at MCAS New River. The council was chartered on March 22, 2004.
Charter Members: Fr. Joseph Koch, Felix Acuna, Aime Angers, Brian Arnoldussen, Philip Capozzo, John Cassidy, Thomas Cassidy, James Denova, Richard Farmer, Stephen Forand, William Gammon, John Gibson, James Griffith, Stephen Guillote, Walter Hill, Roman Iwanski, Joel Kane, Joseph Marker, Randall McCoy, James Mocarski, Jerry Navarro, Michael Parker, James Petrongelli, Craig Putnam, David Reintjes, Andrew Riley, Ralph Rizzo, George Rothermel, William Snow and Robert Wukich.
Charter Officers: Grand Knight Walter (Tom) Hill; Chaplain Fr. Joseph Koch; Deputy Grand Knight George Rothermel; Chancellor Aime Angers; Recorder James Griffith; Treasurer Joseph Marker; Advocate Ralph Rizzo; Warden John Gibson; Inside Guard Michael Parker; Outside Guard James Petrongelli; Trustee 1st Year Joel Kane; Trustee 2nd Year Stephen Forand; Trustee 3rd Year James Mocarski. The Supreme Council appointed Robert Wukich as Financial Secretary. District Deputy was Gregory Ciesielski
COUNCIL NUMBER 14767
HIGH POINT, NC
Council 14767 was formed on May 5, 2009 at Christ the King Catholic Church in High Point, NC. Father Philip Kollithanath had wanted a Council for over 12 years. Instrumental in forming this Council was the work of GK Frank Skinner and DGK Boyce Williams of Council 4507 in High Point, along with much help and encouragement from State Deputy John Gouldie and members of the State Staff, District Deputy Frank Greco DD12, and the 1st Degree teams from 4507, the Spanish 1st Degree team from 12167, Pete Devlin DD13, and the District 12 2nd Degree team.
The Charter Officers were:
Grand Knight - Boyce Williams
Chaplain – Fr. Philip Kollithanath
Deputy Grand Knight – Jorge Fierro
Chancellor – Oscar Venegas
Financial Secretary – Brian Kilgariff
Treasurer – George Lautz
Recorder – Luis Castor
Warden – Eric Bigirande
Inside Guard – Jorge Hernadez
Outside Guard – Gilbert Carter
Trustees – John McKinney
Steven Zidek
William Staub
Two of the Councils Charter members, Father Martin Carter and his twin brother SK Gilbert Carter are also Charter members of Christ the King Parish when it was formed in the late 1930's.
In a year and a half the Council has grown from 31 members to 38 and is a major presence at all Parish events.
Saint Michael the Archangel
Council 15250, Fort Bragg, North Carolina
" Home of the Airborne and Special Operations Forces"
Reflective of the elite military community in which it has been forged, the Saint Michael the Archangel Council 15250 was “formed and deployed” in record time. Once the Garrison’s Senior Catholic Chaplain, Father (LTC) Michael J. Travaglione made the decision to “GO!” on January 11, 2011, events transpired quickly. Working through the senior leadership of the Post Pastoral Council (BG (Ret.) Joe Nagel and others), the jurisdictional District Deputy (Mr. Bob White) was contacted to initiate the Council formation process.
With the full, unqualified endorsement and backing of the North Carolina District Deputy (Mr. David Jones) and, the support of the Knights of Columbus Supreme Council (notably the Supreme Knight—Mr. Carl Anderson, the Senior Vice President for Membership—Mr. Michael Durbin, and the Assistant for Military and Veterans Affairs—COL (RET) Charles “Chuck” Gallina) the formation of a “Fort Bragg Council” began in earnest.
Drawing on a small cadre of Brother Knights who represent the retired members of the Fort Bragg / Pope Army Airfield Military Community, coupled with a like number of Active Duty members drawn from all branches and Commands serving on the installation, the 30 “charter members” needed to establish a Council Number were identified. Simultaneously, the legal process of establishing the new Knights of Columbus Council, as a Private Organization, on Fort Bragg was negotiated and completed.
On 30 March, Saint Michael the Archangel Council 15250, Fort Bragg, North Carolina, was officially recognized. In the short time that has followed, the Council — now 65 members strong — has established its reputation as an organization dedicated to supporting the military member and his family within the Fort Bragg Community.