October • November • December, 2007
Experience of a Lifetime The Communicator, a quarterly publication bringing the Florida State Council’s 47,000 members information through the leadership and dedication of State and council officers, chaplains, directors, chairmen, and coordinators. We encourage you to visit us online at: www.floridastatecouncil.com
State Deputy Report
FLORIDA • ST. LUCIA • BAHAMAS
FLORIDA STATE COUNCIL
James Schonefeld – State Deputy
My Brothers all and families, we are quickly into a new Fraternal Year, and we want each of you to Experience a very rewarding and fulfilling year. Membership is our life blood of the Order, without new members you become stagnant and fail to complete a full program. Programs must be exciting and cause the membership to participate and enjoy complete Fraternalism. So while membership is important, also are viable programs to keep the membership interested and grow as a unit. Grand Knights, begin implementing your program of events that will make you a winner – A Star Council. You have received the Reports Form Booklet, so you can have every opportunity to work through the year and not February and then they are due. Good Luck!! Be sure you are sending the Council Bulletins to the State Directors as required. It’s the most popular sport in the world. We’re the world’s largest Catholic fraternal society. It’s only fitting that soccer and the Knights of Columbus have teamed up. The Supreme Council is again proud to announce the youth program, the Knights of Columbus Soccer Challenge. Order your kit now
you have had the form in your Reports Form Booklet for several months now. Also Basketball, Substance Abuse and Essay contest are also there. The Spelling Bee packets have been mailed. Worthy Sirs, your youth programs will be Soccer (International Champions selected in November), then Spelling Bee, Basketball Free Throw, Substance Abuse Posters and Essay contest. So, act now, and do not forget the Altar Server of the Year Program. It is very disheartening, to see that so few Councils participate in the Family of the Month Program. Submit a name, address and three or four sentences, to have them entered into the monthly drawing for Supreme Recognition. Forms are found in the family reports book, and also on-line. See you at the Florida State Golf Tournament, hosted by DESOTO Council # 5604, Bradenton FL, October 5, 6, & 7, 2007. Remember to offer the Experience of a Lifetime to every family, ask a new member!! Schedule and Conduct First Degrees!
General Program Administrator Report Douglas Murray – General Program Administrator
Brothers all, welcome to another great fraternal year. As our new officers assume their responsibilities all over our great state, I want to insure them that the program Chairmen, Directors, and Administrators both Dewey and myself are here to serve, assist and support you and your council in meeting the challenges of the year. We have a talented staff at your service and pledge to respond to your inquiries immediately. Our programs, both from State and Supreme are a very important part of each councils agenda, as they keep our members and their families involved in our ministries. Our teams look forward to a year that exemplifies your greatness, which improves our ability to serve our Lord, Our families and our community. Let’s move forward and get the programs your council approves onto your calendars now. It is important that you not only schedule programs, but appoint a chairman or committee and contact us so we too can be involved insuring your success. I ask that this year we set up a MEMBERSHIP INFORMATION TABLE at every function. It should be manned by your Membership Committee including your Insurance Rep. It should also have information and applications for membership in the Fourth Degree, Women’s Auxiliary, Columbiettes, Squires, and Squirettes. By having this table at each program and/or function, you insure membership growth. Membership IS Everybody’s Business!!! Let us start this New Year with a commitment to fulfill our ministries needs, meet the challenges, get every report in on time and enjoy our time as leaders of our councils, districts, and programs. This is your year to make history and insure your legacy of success. Again our teams are here to serve you and your council. Contact us and let us enjoy assisting and supporting you in reaching you goals.
Inside: Programs - Charities - Activities - Pro-Life News - Council News
Florida K of C State Golf Tournament Florida K of C State Golf Tournament, Friday Oct. 5, 2007 thru Sat. Oct. 7,2007. Desoto Council 5604 - Bradenton, Fl. For more information or to sign up, contact GK Bob Freeman: 941-746-1082
Florida Respect Life Conference
"Witnessing the Sacredness of All Life" October 12-14, 2007, at the Quorum Hotel, 700 N. Westshore Blvd., in Tampa. Sponsored by the Catholic Bishops of Florida and the State Pro-Life Coordinating Committee.
Fourth Degree Exemplification November 23 to 25, 2007 At the Marriott World Resort & Convention Center, located 8701 World Center Drive, Orlando. Gary McLain PSD, Master Phone & Fax: 904-406-2718
Florida K of C Run for Life
February 1 through 10 Kick off in Homestead, FL and End in St. Augustine, FL. For information call Allan Gieselman: 904-829-0409
State Spelling Bee
March 1, Kissimmee - Mark F. Gervia: 863-427-1010
State Basketball Free Throw March 29, Lakeland - Mark F. Gervia: 863-427-1010
Florida K of C State Bowling Tournament Florida K of C State Bowling Tournament, Friday April 19, 2008 thru Sat. April 20 ,2008. Hosted by Fr. Charles Spellman Council 6125 - 3435 Fiske Boulevard, Rockledge, Fl. For more information or to sign up, contact GK Daniel Dan R. Heidt: 321-632-6125
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From the State Treasurer Christopher E. Kernan – State Treasurer
Congratulations on your election or appointment to the various offices in the Councils and Assemblies of our Order. The first quarter of the Fraternal Year is already gone and you should each be well on your way to establishing goals for success in whatever direction your endeavors are taking you.
far exceeding those of prior years. For those at the Council level, please remember that the State family of Officers, Directors, Chairmen, Coordinators, and District Deputies are there to serve you, the backbone of the Florida State Jurisdiction. If you have questions or need assistance with your recruitment efforts or other activities, please do not hesitate to ask for assistance and advice. God bless and I wish for each a most promising and rewarding Fraternal Year.
Working as a team this year we can achieve successes
Council Liability Insurance Dick Krohn – State Secretary
There are some misunderstandings regarding the effective dates of the Liability Insurance from R. C. Knox. The policy year runs from February 1, through January 31. The premium paid with the 07 - 08 per-capita is for the policy year February 1, 2008 - January 31, 2009. Councils that paid for insurance in the fall of 2006 or the winter of 2007 are insured for the policy year February 1, 2007 through January 31, 2008. Councils that did not pay for February 1, 2007 - January 31, 2008 may still obtain coverage at a pro-rated premium.
Councils that have a need for a Certificate of Insurance may obtain one by calling R. C. Knox at 1-860-524-7672 or 1-860-524-7692. Please have a fax number available for them to use to send it to you or an organization requesting it. Please feel free to contact me if there are questions.
State Warden’s Message Don Goolesby – State Warden
Deb and I want to thank everyone for your support and assistance at the July organizational meeting. The success was accomplished only by your hard work. The ladies did a superb job with the hospitality room and we truly thank each of you. We look forward to seeing everyone again at the next organizational meeting in December. We are now at the end of summer and everyone should be back from vacation and ready to go full speed ahead
with membership and the general programs for your council and our great State. We have much work to do a little time to do it. All of us are expected to do our share so that our State will remain as one of the best in our honored Order. We want our Worthy State Deputy in the “Circle of Honor” where he belongs! If I can be of any assistance to you or your council, please do not hesitate to let me know. Please continue to keep Deb and I in your prayers. We are honored to serve you!
2007-2009 Florida State Council
On June 30, 2007, the Florida State Council installed the 2007 - 2009 State officers, the ceremony was held Holy Redeemer in Kissimmee, Fl. Fr. Ed McCarthy celebrated mass and a lunch followed the ceremony in the parish hall. Later that evening a banquet was held in honor of State Deputy James Schonefeld and his wife Dot. From right to left: Bottom Row - James and Dot Schonefeld, Fri. Ed McCarthy, Marge and Dick Krohn, Denise and Christopher Kernan. Middle row - Dennis and Linda Stoddard, Lorraine Murray, Mary Bishop, Bob and Jenny Read, Farah and Dewey Marshall. Top row - Debbie and Don Goolesby, Doug Murray, Peter Bishop, Terri and Paul Koppie.
Veterans Affairs Voluntary Service (VAVS) Harold L. O'Brien – VAVS Director
The "dog days of summer" are behind us. Many of our brothers and sisters were away enjoying a rest. But the work of helping and aiding our veterans in the VA hospitals is still a necessary cause – a cause we are committed to. From the phone calls and the mail I receive, many assemblies and councils are doing various things to help veterans hospitals, clinics, and nursing homes in their respective areas. Please keep up the good work, and please advise me of what you are doing in your areas. On Monday, August 6, 2007, the Fisher House at the James A. Haley Veterans Hospital was officially opened. This is the thirty-eighth completed house to aid the veteran’s families when they come to visit
House is designed with 21 guest suites. It is considered to be a "Home-away-from-Home" and provides a sense of comfort while a loved one is undergoing treatment.
from afar. Our worthy Master, Gary Mclain, his lovely wife Joan, as well as, SK Ron Miller, his wife Carlotta, and I were present among the many guests from the various branches of service to witness the official ribbon cutting ceremony. The Fisher
How can we help? By monetary contributions to the James A. Haley Veterans Hospital, Fisher House. "They have opened the door, will we open our heart?" We as knights, can make a difference in the lives of service members, veterans, and their families when needed most. Remember the freedom we enjoy – our veterans have paid a high price for it.
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Your Councils and Assemblies may loose their Tax Exempt status Paul Koppie – State Advocate
There is current legislation and new legislation forthcoming that has specific requirements for Tax Exempt organizations to file tax returns. Failure to abide by the requirements will result in your Council or Assembly loosing its Tax Exempt status. This is very important! I have listed below the major points but it is imperative that you visit the State web site at www.floridastatecouncil.com and click on the Council/Assembly/Home Corporation Tax Information for detailed information on the changes and what each organization must do in order not to loose their tax exempt status. Each Council and Assembly must carry out its own responsibilities related to its federal tax information returns. In addition, each individual organization, whether it is the Council, Assembly, Columbiettes, Ladies Auxiliary, or Home Corporation, must have their own Employee Identification Number (EIN). Please verify your organization has an EIN and it is exclusively your own. You cannot use the EIN of the parish your Council or Assembly may be affiliated with. If
your organization does not have your own EIN, you can attain one by visiting the IRS website at www.irs.gov/businesses/small and clicking on Employer ID Numbers (EIN).
Major Points:
• All Councils and Assemblies in the United States are exempt from federal income tax under Section 501(c)(8) of the Internal Revenue Code (IRC), as "fraternal lodges"; provided their Employer Identification Number (EIN) is listed with the Supreme Advocate who will in turn list the number with the IRS for inclusion in the group exemption listing. • The IRS group ruling that exempts the Supreme Council and its Assemblies and Councils from federal and state income tax does not exempt them from other state and local taxes. • Each Assembly and Council with receipts over $25,000 must file a return; there is no group or consolidated form 990 filing. • There is new legislation that will require all Councils, Assemblies and Home Corporations to file electronically an annual notice with the IRS containing basic contact and financial information. Beginning in 2008 for the 2007 year, this new re-
quirement will apply to organizations that currently do not have an annual filing requirement because their gross receipts are less than $25,000. • Home Corporations are not subordinate units of the Knights of Columbus and are not tax-exempt under the order’s group ruling. Each home corporation also must file its own application for tax exempt status on form 1024. • State law, however, allows Councils to establish Home Corporations as non-stock, non-profit corporations that may qualify as non-profit tax-exempt organizations, either as a section 501(c)(2) title holding company, or as a section 501(c)(7) social club. Again, it is imperative that you know and follow the IRS tax requirements in order to maintain your tax exempt status. Please read and follow the information as provided on the State K of C Florida web site. If I can be of any further help, please do not hesitate to contact me. Vivat Jesus.
Third Degree Exemplification Schedule Through December 2007 Date
Day
Location
Council
District Deputy
Degree Team
Confering Officer
Status
10/6/2007
Saturday
Estero
10498
David Erickson DD #46
Jerry Grillo Knighthood Team
Paul Koppie
Pending
10/13/2007
Saturday
Gainesville
13207
Jerry Woodard DD #11
Leo T. Bowles Knighthood Team
Jack Jones
Pending
10/20/2007
Saturday
Winter Haven
4726
Lenwood Winget DD #37
Pasco County Knighthood Team
Stan Zgurzynski
Pending
10/20/2007
Saturday
Ormond Beach
8791
John Shierling DD #14
Tampa Knighthood Team
Barry Wade
Pending
11/3/2007
Saturday
Southwest Ranches 13045
Scott O'Connor DD #58
Treasure Coast Knighthood Team
Barry Wade
Pending
11/3/2007
Saturday
Tallahassee
12929
Robert McGivern DD #5
Pensacola Knighthood Team
Orlando Hernandez
Pending
11/10/2007
Saturday
Safety Harbor
7109
Robert Collins DD #29
Tampa Knighthood Team
Stan Zgurzynski
Pending
11/10/2007
Saturday
Vero Beach
13153
Thomas J. LaRocca DD #50
Jerry Grillo Knighthood Team
Jack Jones
Pending
11/10/2007
Saturday
Beverly Hills
6168
David Quinlan DD #17
Pasco County Knighthood Team
Ray Boyer
Pending
11/17/2007
Saturday
Delray Beach
13996
Leonard Morro DD # 55
Treasure Coast Knighthood Team
Paul Koppie
Pending
11/17/2007
Saturday
Sanford
5357
Charles J. Dolan Jr. DD #20
Leo T. Bowles Knighthood Team
Barry Wade
Pending
11/18/2007
Saturday
Milton
7027
Floyd Pace DD # 2
Alabama Knighthood Team
Orlando Hernandez
Pending
12/01/2007
Saturday
Port Charlotte
5399
Joe E. Karpach DD # 42
Jerry Grillo Knighthood Team
Paul Koppie
Pending
If you have any questions or concerns, contact Jack Jones at (904)269-7443. In order to host a 3rd degree this fraternal year, you must have at least 35 candidates firmly committed before confirming your scheduled degree. All 3rd degrees are pending until confirmed or cancelled. All 3rd degrees must be confirmed or cancelled at least 3 weeks prior to the degree date. Your goal should be 45 to 55 candidates! All districts in your area should be notified in writing of the degree date and encouraged to participate. This letter should go out at least 60 days in advance.
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Shrines Tour of France and Italy Fr. Edward McCarthy – State Chaplain
I would like to personally invite you, your relatives and friends to join me on this Pilgrimage of Prayer and Praise to France and Italy, where we will have the opportunity to retrace the steps of some of the Church’s great saints and faithfilled pilgrims who have gone before us in their generous response to the Lord’s call. Our Spiritual journey is timed so that we may take part in the 150th Anniversary of the Apparitions of the Blessed Virgin Mary to Bernadette Soubirous in Lourdes.
We will begin our journey in France, where we will visit the Shrine of St. John Vianney, “the Cure of Ars”; Paray-Le-Monial, celebrated for the apparitions of Our Lord to St. Margaret Mary Alacoque; and Lisieux, home of St. Theresa. We will also take time to visit Paris, the “City of Lights”, where we will view the remarkable sights of the River Seine, the Eiffel Tower, Champs Elysées, Arc de Triomphe, Place de la Concorde, the Opéra and Bastille Square. A visit to Lourdes, promises to be a grace-filled experience. See and touch the places where St. Bernadette lived and stand in the Grotto where “'Our Lady” appeared to St. Bernadette. While in Rome, this pilgrimage will take us to the sacred sites of our Catholic faith, including the Sistine Chapel. We will also take in the historic venues of Ancient Rome, including the Roman Forum. We will enjoy an excursion to Assisi, home of St. Francis and St. Clare. We will celebrate daily Liturgies, as well as, have the opportunity to attend the general audience with the Holy Father.
Peter and Paul, and many others before us came closer to God. Visiting Rome, Vatican City and Assisi, rounds out what promises to be an enriching and unforgettable experience. Our extraordinary journey will be for twelve grace-filled days. I hope you will consider this opportunity to join me in responding in a similar way to the request the Blessed Virgin Mary made to Bernadette Soubirous: “Would you be kind enough to come here for fifteen days?”
You will see, walk and pray at the same locations St. Bernadette, St. Francis and St. Clare, St.
Director of the Department of Clergy Services for the Diocese of Orlando and State Chaplain for the Knights of Columbus of Florida Invites You to Join a 12-Day Pilgrimage of Prayer and Praise. March 25 — April 5, 2008 – Lyon • Ars • Paray-le-Monial • Nevers • Paris • Lisieux • Lourdes • Rome • Vatican City • Assisi For the entire itinerary and more information please visti www.floridastatecouncil/shrines
Handicap Drive Coming Soon Reggie Dubay – Handicap Drive Director
I would like to thank all Grand Knights and Councils who participated in the Handicapped Drive for 2007 fraternal year. Your hard work enabled all of us to exceed our goal of $800,000. In a time of cut backs, we were able to help the Handicapped Citizens of Florida.
will not be deducted if the donation is used in conjunction with money collected outside of the drive. This donation will be included in your total funds collected for the handicapped drive for the year.
Our goal for the 2008 fraternal year is $850,000. With your help as in past years, I see no problem achieving this goal. I again would like 100% participation from all councils and assemblies.
When ordering Tootsie Roll cases there will be no shipping charges if the order is 33 cases or more. All orders must have a business address for the company to ship the order to. The minimum order is 18 cases.
Our handicapped Drive will be here before you know it. Please appoint your chairman now. Plan your events early so all of the brothers can participate. We are looking for a bigger and better drive this year. Ask merchants for donations. Remember, if you received a donation in excess of $500, send the Direct Donation - I will document it, and a state check will be made out to the handicapped program and mailed back to the council or assembly for presentation. A percentage
With the help of today’s electronic and computer check deposits and vouchers submitted online your donation checks will be back within 10 days. Worthy Grand Knights and Faithful Navigators, I thank you in advance for your support for the Handicapped of Florida.
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Our Lady Of Charity Prayer Program
James Schonefeld – State Deputy
tions will be remembered during each prayer service. Please see the Supreme Web site for more on the program, copy of the Prayer Booklet and Prayer Card and the September 2007 issue of Columbia. The Icon began in Pensacola, Kissimmee and Vero Beach on September 8. The 3 icons will travel from District to District (2 weeks between). There is the Icon, prayer books, Our Lady of Charity Holy Card and a Log Book. The prayer books are recovered after each use, but the Holy Cards may be given out. (See Schedule in sidebar) The Columbia on line version had a beautiful presentation, The History, The Devotion and Papal Recognition. Link: http://www.kofc.org/un/publications/columbia/ There is a beautiful shrine built in her honor by exiles 40 years ago in Miami. So if you go that way look it up at 1609 S Miami Ave, Miami, FL 33129-1103.
A new Marian Prayer Program in honor of Our Lady of Charity Began Orderwide on September 8, the feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary. This program features an image of Our Lady of Charity, the patroness of Cuba. Our Lady of Charity has special significance to the Knights of Columbus, given the Order’s first principle of Charity, which was also the theme of Pope Benedicts XVI’s first encyclical, Deus Caritas Est. Therefore, although the Virgin of Charity has her origins in Cuba, devotion to her is altogether appropriate for Knights of Columbus everywhere. As a sign of spiritual solidarity with Pope Benedict XVI, the Holy Father and his inten-
This years Mass and celebration took place at the Bank United Center, on University of Miami with 45 Sir Knights in Regalia, Processions which included our Icon, Archbishop Favalora celebrating the mass. Over 12,000 attended. One most precious part of the celebration is the Rosary (a large rope rosary, with a young child/adult at each Bead, as each going around is recited, that individual takes a yellow rose to the altar and places it in a Bouquet). A wonderful Choir, all seminarians participated, and a large number of Priests, Deacons and Religious. Walter Atzert, 5735 Ridgestone Drive, Tampa, FL 336253279, 813-963-0305, watzert@aol.com will be tracking this years program.
Icon Schedule First 4 Months
09/08/07 Norman LaRose
DD1
Gulf Breeze
09/08/07 Al Cieslak
DD24
Kissimmee
09/15/07 Thomas J. LaRocca DD50
Vero Beach
09/22/07 Floyd Pace
DD2
Pensacola
09/22/07 Daniel (Dan) Heidt DD25
Viera
09/29/07 John F. McCarry, Jr. DD51
Port St. Lucie
10/06/07 Richard Walcheck DD3
Crestview
10/06/07 Donald Carothers
DD38
Palm Bay
10/13/07 Felix Dechmerowski DD52
Port St. Lucie
10/20/07 Robert Majka
DD4
Lynn Haven
10/20/07 Allan Thompson
DD26
Spring Hill
10/27/07 Thomas R. Conroy DD53
Loxahatchee
11/03/07 Robert McGivern
DD5
Tallahassee
11/03/07 Joseph LaGuardia DD27 New Port Richey 11/10/07 Stan Pervenecki
DD54
Wellington
11/17/07 Robert Edgar
DD6
Lake City
11/17/07 Gilbert Jones
DD28
Largo
11/24/07 Lenny Morro
DD55
Boynton Beach
12/08/07 Jerry Woodward
DD11
Gainesville
12/08/07 Bob Collins
DD29
St Petersburg
12/15/07 Edward Mottola
DD56
Boca Roton
12/29/07 John Tatum
DD12
Palatka
12/29/07 David DeRose
DD30
St. Petersburg
K of C Charities
Dewey Marshall – K of C Charities Administrator Brothers our “K of C Charities” is off and running. Each of our directors has set their goals and with your help we can not only meet but also bust the goals. Working with our Webmaster, all forms, and donation cards will be accessible from our web site. The Helping life mailings will commence within the next few weeks. Our “Helping Life” program supports, birthright,
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abused women and children, elder abuse, etc. “Handicapped drive” supports our handicapped citizens and programs. The Tootsie Roll and apron order form will be mailed out in October. Vocations, (go without saying) supports our churches and priests. The “Vocations Fund” mailing will be sent out in November. Regarding our “RSVP” program - we would like to see every council and assembly support this program; not only our semi-
narians, but men and women who are novices or postulants in religious orders, and religious communities as well. The “Memorial Card Program” is important to our brothers and families. Don’t you think that a family or loved one would rather received a memorial card letting them know that they will be prayed for daily? Please check our website for updates and any forms needed in support of K of C Charities. I thank you in advance for your support for this very worth while cause.
Keep Christ in Christmas
The Informational Night
Austin “Lou”Lewis – KCIC Chairman We are in the 3rd month of the “Keep Christ in Christmas Program” Question; have you ordered your Cards, Magnets, Billboards and promotional materials? The time, the 25th September is rapidly approaching, and prices for asst card case will be raised on that date. Cards ordered must be received prior to 25 September. Your continued support for this program is of the utmost importance. It’s our way of reminding our fellow man, and ourselves, of the true meaning of Christmas, the Birth of our Savior Jesus. The true reason for the season. With our program last year, over $42 thousand dollars worth of cards and magnets were purchased by 108 Councils in the State. That’s a lot of messages to Keep Christ in Christmas. In addition, over $22 thousand dollars
was raised for charities. I truly believe we can do better in 2007. We have two new Magnets to display – both in full color. One is a scene of Mary, Joseph and the Christ child, this one is on the promotional brochure. The 2nd, also in color, is a bright red card with the Christ child in a manger in the center. Samples in black and white are shown.
I must always use the quote from a long time KCIC Chairman Denny Coleman, “It’s been a really s great evangelizational program. It gets the true meaning of Christmas out to our brother knights, their families, friends and to our fellow man.”
For billboard information, go to www.christischristmas.com – pick the one you like, send it to me along with check. A smaller for the inside is listed in the promotional brochure. Cards, asst. case or asst. boxes (shipping could be a little higher on this one) can be ordered thru me, just fill out the order form along with your check.
Let us press forward with energy and stamina to make the program a success.
Jack Sager – Bible Placement Chairman
We have several types available. Our newest addition to our list is the Teen Bible; that has been very popular with our youth groups. Others are the Good News Bibles in New Testament only or in New and Old Testament, available in English and Spanish. We also have the
New and Old Testament Bible in hard cover, only available in English at this time. One of the most popular Bibles is the New American Bible in English only. We also have the New American Bible in large print this year. We have continued to send labels custom printed with the council name, number and city for each order for the council to put in the Bibles for the recipient to long remember where their Bible came from. Christmas is coming soon and these Bibles make excellent and memorable Christmas gifts, as well as birthday gifts for a family member or a friend. Any and all profits go directly to the K of C Vocation Fund to be distributed through-
An Informational Night and Open House provides an opportunity to introduce your council and the Order to a broad audience of prospects at one event. The main objective is to “exhibit your products” - your volunteer service programs, your social and fraternal activities, your membership benefits - that your council and Order have to offer to members and their families. On this special occasion, your council teaches prospects and their families about the Order and asks them to join. An Informational Night is the primary tool of the PR Director. Use these steps in conducting your event:
Bibles for Christmas Again, during the first quarter of the fraternal year, 2007-2008, July 1st thru October 2nd, we have placed Bibles thru the Knights Of Columbus, in Spanish and English, throughout the State of Florida. We have had orders through K of C councils, District Deputies, K of C 4th degree assemblies, and many individuals. We have indeed been spreading the good news of the lord!
Ed Marusa – Public Relations Director
out the many dioceses in the State of Florida. Please remember to order these early to beat the Christmas shopping and the mailing rush.
• Appoint a committee to organize your Informational Night. • Set a date and time • Publicize in local and Florida Catholic newspapers and your parish bulletin. • Order quantities of promotional material including “Open House” poster (#9430). • Send open house invitations, with a telephone call confirming their attendance. • Arrange a display of council scrapbooks, awards, pro grams and activities. • Assign each prospect attending to a recruiter to act as host. • Make sure that the prospects have transportation to the First Degree. • Notify the prospects of future meetings, events, and Second and Third Degrees. Plan the program: • Have a welcome committee greet guests. • Introduce the council officers and other members. • Have Membership Director explain the Order’s and council’s goals • Have insurance agent present to explain free insurance for members • Show promotion videos • Consider light refreshments at end of program
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Community News Ron Yankowski – Community Activities Director
Brothers, the stories below are from the 125th Supreme convention in Nashville, Tenn. As your State Community Activities Director, I am pleased to present the winners for the Supreme Community Activities award. This is the type of project that we need to be involved with to compete for the Supreme award. As the 1st place council winner in the Community Activities program, the Grand Knight and his wife will be the guests of the order’s board of directors at the Supreme convention. 2nd and 3rd place winners will receive appropriate recognition from the Supreme council. The International Community Activity Awards are as follows: First Place went to Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen Council 7612 in Owing Mills, Maryland for the Courage Lion Project. The death of children throughout the community and particularly children from two Knights’ families provided the impetus for the “Courage Lion Program.” In January 2005, the council began an unprecedented research and development effort for impacting the lives of critically ill, traumatized and abused children. Eighteen months of research and development between the council and Johns Hopkins Children’s Center concluded with the launch of the Courage Lion Program there on June 27, 2006. The hard work of more than 300 supporters has brought the Courage Lion Program to 17,500 children in less than 11 months with contributions exceeding $160,000. Knights and volunteers concluded that without Council 7612’s help, this program would not have succeeded. Second Place went to Father Ragan, Council 3269 of Avon, Ohio for Smiles for Sophie. When the council advocate learned that a local 3 year-old girl was diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumor and her parents had to leave their jobs immediately to take her to Saint Jude’s Medical Center in Tennessee, he went to the council to help and support the family in its time of need. Realizing the expense the family would incur, the council organized a fund-raiser. More than 150 Knights and their families banded together to host the largest community event in the council’s recent history. The council raised more than $15,500 to support a little girl named Sophie. Now all are praying for a miracle. Third Place went to Saint Peter, Council 7070 of Edmonton, Alberta for Project J. When Council 7070 learned that the Mandeville Diocese in Jamaica requested assistance to build homes for the poor and help for the local orphanage, they decided to get involved. The council collected clothes and toys for the orphanage. Eight Knights and two wives volunteered to go the Mandeville region to construct four homes. Everyone who participated in the program gained much more then they gave, and realized that their experience made a big difference for four Jamaican families.
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Supreme Knight, Board Urge Support for 'Bella' Supreme Knight Carl A. Anderson, with the backing of the Order’s Board of Directors, is recommending that Knights support Bella, a major motion picture to be released this summer. Bella, whose star and producers are Knights, won the Toronto Film Festival’s People’s Choice Award. “If we can get millions of people to see this film, we are going to save lives,” Anderson said. “We can get people to understand what we mean when we talk about a culture of life, or what it means to live a Catholic life. Our support of this movie can be the start of something great.” In particular, councils are asked to pre-purchase tickets to showings of the film at local theaters during the first week of its release to the public throughout the United States beginning Oct. 26. These tickets can then be resold at face value to encourage people to view the film. Online Resources • Bellathemovie.com To pre-purchase tickets and receive a marketing tool kit, Knights should call 619-573-9549. For further information on K of C involvement, please call Andrew Walther at 203752-4253. Groups of tickets will be sold to councils for no more than
$12 each depending on the market.Because the film has a strong culture of life theme, Anderson said, councils could consider screening the movie and accepting donations to local pregnancy resource centers. Bella was produced by Knights Leo Severino and Sean Wolfington, and stars Knight Eduardo Verastegui. Verastegui and Wolfington took their First Degree in New Haven at the June State Deputies meeting. The state deputies and their wives also enjoyed a premiere showing of Bella. The movie tells the story of Jose (Verástegui), who gives up his career as a soccer superstar after a tragic incident. He goes to work in his brother’s restaurant, where he befriends a pregnant waitress and begins to resolve some of the pain he stills feel about the life-changing accident. A former telenovela (soap opera) star in his native Mexico, Verástegui abandoned his burgeoning Hollywood career to start a new film company to produce movies with a moral message. After the screening, Verástegui spoke briefly to the Knights. He described his character as a “man who wants to live a life of integrity and sacrifice everything” for family and others. The film does this by portraying Latinos and family life in a favorable light.
Mid-Year Membership and Program Meeting Friday - Sunday, December 7-9, 2007 • Ocala Hilton. Friday night training is scheduled for District Deputies.
October is the Rosary Month Nick France – Editor
When I think back to my early days as a new member of the Knights of Columbus, I always remember fondly praying a decade of the Rosary each time our Chaplain would lead us in an opening prayer. There I was, praying shoulder-toshoulder with my brother knights. I can remember feeling the presence of Our Lord emanating from the chamber, all the while thinking how right it felt. I still do, in fact, to this day; it’s my most favorite part of a meeting. Praying the Rosary has such tremendous power – the power to change the course of human history. In fact, it has on more than one occasion. Praying with my brother knights reminds me that one of the most important facets of our organization, the aspect that differentiates us from all other organizations, is our connection to God, our connection to Mother Church – our devotion to precious Jesus and Mary. October is the "Rosary Month." It is the month to return to the Rosary more devoutly. It is a time to come together more often to pray the Rosary - not only as knights, but also as families and as a community. The month of October also calls to mind the inspirational guidance of Pope Leo XIII, known as the "Pope of the Rosary." He was also particularly responsible for designating October as the "Rosary Month." In one of his many encyclicals on the Rosary, he wrote:
To this heavenly mother, we have offered the flowers of the month of May; to her we would also have fruit-bearing October dedicated with a particularly tender devotion. It is fitting that both parts of the year should be consecrated to her... (Augustissimae Virginis, September 12, 1897). Have I lost a past fervor for praying the Rosary? Could I partake in more Rosaries than I currently do for the present state of the family, the unborn, the poor, the Church and the world? I know I can and I know I should. Throughout the Rosary Month, I will try to extend a deeper devotion to the Rosary, to make it a fruit-bearing October dedicated to our heavenly mother. Do you want to change the present course of human history? Pray the Rosary.
Watch Out, It's Coming Soon David Finch – Helping Life Director Check your mail; it's coming to your house soon. The 2007-2008 HELPING LIFE drive is scheduled to begin in October. The mailing will be in three phases. The first phase will be the northern part of the state followed by the central and then the southern. As you learned in the First Degree, CHARITY is our first and most important principle. What better way to put this principle into action than to support our HELPING LIFE programs. For the price of going out to lunch or playing a round of golf you can help support these most vulnerable of GOD'S
creatures, the unborn baby or the abused woman. We are asking every Knight to donate at lease $15.00. This is a very reasonable request. Just try to get a meal in a restaurant today for only $15.00. Some may only be able to send $5 or $10 while others may be able to send $100 or more. When you donate $100 or more, you become a "LIFE SAVER" and receive a unique and beautiful lapel pin. Most of the monies collected go toward our primary concerns: homes for
unwed mothers and crisis pregnancy centers. Centers for the elderly are also supported. The cost of operating these homes and service centers has risen dramatically over the years. These homes need our assistance now more than ever. Please don't let our vulnerable sisters and brothers down. Be a HELPING LIFE supporter. Every Knight is needed. Every Knight can make a difference. If you have any questions, please email me at: helpinglife@floridastatecouncil.com or call me at 813-220-1543.
Youth Activites Mark Gervia – Youth Activities Director
Please ensure that your schedules meet the following deadlines, and ensure that you coordinate with the organizers of the levels of competition both above and below yours. This is essential to ensure that there are no scheduling conflicts and that your contestants are able to compete at all levels of competition. Soccer Challenge: Council Level Competition - Sep. 2007 District Level Competition - Oct. 2007 Region Level Competition - Oct. - Nov. 2007 State Level Competition is on Saturday, Nov. 3, 2007 Spelling Bee: Council Level Competition - Oct. 15 through Nov. 15, 2007 District Level Competition - Nov. 15 through Dec. 15, 2007 Regional Level Competition - Jan. 2008 State Level Competition is on Saturday, Mar. 1, 2008 Basketball: In accordance with the Supreme Council’s recommended time frames, please ensure your competitions are completed within the following dates. Council Level Competition - During Jan. 2008 District Level Competition - Feb. 1 through 14, 2008 Regional Level Competition - Feb. 15 through 28,2008 State Level Competition is on Saturday, Mar. 29, 2008 The State Finals for the Basketball Free Throw is being sponsored by Councils of District 33 and will be held at Santa Fe Catholic High School, Lakeland, Florida on Mar. 15, 2008, starting at 11 a.m. The State Finals for the Spelling Bee is being sponsored by St Cloud - Kissimmee Council 6624 and will be held in Kissimmee, Florida, on Mar. 1, 2008, starting at 11 a.m. The Soccer Challenge Competition is being planned for the Orlando area and will be held by Council # 6624 on Nov. 10, 2007. Substance Abuse Poster Program: We are promoting this program again this year. Council judging should take place in January – send the winner to the State Competition. Two posters, one from each age group will be picked at the State Competition and displayed at the State Convention in May 2008. Essay Contest: I encourage every council to participate in this worthy cause. We have not had much involvement in the past. I am looking forward to a highly competitive series of games this year.
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Fourth Degree Report Gary L. McLain, PSD – Master, Florida District
The first Fourth Degree Exemplification for this fraternal year was held in Coral Springs on August 18, 2007. A total of 147 candidates including 4 Priests received the honor of the Fourth Degree. The next Exemplification will take place on November 24, 2007, in Orlando at the Marriott World Center. We are hoping for a large class as the Honoree will be State Deputy Jim Schonefeld. We now have Representatives and Deputy Representatives at all our VA Hospitals and at most VA Clinics. The Veterans Affairs Volunteer Services (VAVS) is in full gear. Some of you may realize that the Veterans Administration does not provide for all the needs of those veterans who are patients in the hospitals. Patients are always in need of personal hygiene products, lap blankets, socks, underwear, and tshirts. All clothing must be new and in their own packaging to be accepted by the hospitals and clinics. Donations of these items may be given to the nearest Council or Assembly who will then have them transported to the nearest VA facility in need. Councils and
Assemblies should make up a receipt for these articles, have it signed by personnel from the receiving facility, and forward the receipt to Harold “O’bie” O’Brien, VAVS Director for Florida, for proper information to Supreme. In response to our program to help the veterans, the Florida State Council has permitted us to place the VAVS under the IRS tax exemption 501(c)(3). Now anyone may make a tax exempt donation to the VAVS by making their check payable to KC Charities/VAVS and mailing it to Gary L. McLain, 36 Currant Avenue, Middleburg, FL 32068. Checks are deposited in a special ac-
Special Olympics
Lou and Mary Jane Tovey – Special Olympics Chair Couple Volunteers are needed for the final competitions in the following sports: bowling, gymnastics, power lifting, roller skating, softball and softball skills. Special Olympics Florida also offers Healthy Athletes screenings for vision, dental, hearing, and physical fitness. The Supreme Council has encouraged Knights and their families to assist with these programs. The State Games are the final competitions for athletes who have already won medals in their Counties and Regions. The competitions will be held at Disney’s Wide World of Sports on Friday, Nov. 2 from noon until dark and Saturday, Nov. 3 from 7:00 a.m. until Closing Ceremonies and a victory dance. Bowling is at the Boardwalk Bowl on Colonial Dr. You can volunteer for any length of time you are able to give, from 3 hours, one event, a whole day, or the whole event! You may volunteer for the sport of your choice, but you
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may be asked to shift venues if help is needed. It’s easy and fun! To register as a volunteer, go to www.disneyworldsports.com/sportsenthusiast and scroll to Nov. 2nd Special Olympics Fall Classic. You can register online or print and mail. Make sure to say you are with the K of C. Grand Knights who can guarantee a group of 10 or more (includes wives and children over 10 years old) should call Stormy Washington, Disney contact person, at 407-938-3823 and volunteer as a group. You would all be assigned to the same venue. For more information you can go to the Special Olympics Florida web site, www.sofl.org or contact Lou or Mary Jane Tovey, 813-634-7399 or email lou.mjtovey@verizon.net.
count that is used exclusively to assist our veterans. This account is audited each year by the Florida State Council auditor. I know each of us is grateful to the men and women who have served us and now it is our turn to serve them. God bless each and every one of you for all that you do for our Order.
How to wear the miniature medals The photo to the right shows how to wear the miniature medals by past or former office holders. Max number across is four. The highest position held is close to the heart.
The order is State Deputy, Vice Supreme Master, Master, District Deputy, Grand Knight and Faithful Navigator.
Pro-Life Corner
Reports and Forms
Joseph and Maureen Kubaski – Pro-Life Chair Couple
Pro-Life group from College Station, Texas launches 40 Days For Life Campaign Eighty Cities in thirty-two states are participating in the largest simultaneous nationwide Pro-Life mobilization in history. This campaign involves prayer, fasting and a 40 day peaceful prayer vigil outside local Planned Parenthood abortion clinics. Why 40 days? God has used the period of 40 days throughout history to bring about major transformation...Noah experienced transformation during 40 days of rain. Moses was transformed by 40 days on Mount Sinai. David was transformed by Goliath’s 40 day challenge. Elijah was transformed when God gave him 40 days of strength from one meal. Nineveh was transformed when God gave the city 40 days to remain faithful. Jesus was transformed and empowered by 40 days in the desert. The Disciples were transformed after spending 40 days with Jesus following His resurrection. Just think of the transformation God could accomplish if individuals and communities across America unite together this fall for 40 days of prayer and fasting, pulling out all the stops to end the violence of abortion... How many mothers and babies will be saved from abortions? The campaign is scheduled to run from Sept. 26, through Nov. 4, 2007. The following cities in Florida are scheduled to participate: Jacksonville, Pensacola, Port St. Lucie, Sarasota and West Palm Beach.
Life Quote
Len Anzalone – Reports/Forms Chairman
We are asking all Knights of Columbus councils to support the campaign in their area. If you live or are close to these cities and do not know where the campaign is being held contact the Diocesan Respect Life Director for information. A listing of the Diocesan Respect Life Directors is on the Florida K of C Website, . If you cannot attend a local campaign please pray and fast for its success. October is Respect Life month October 7, 2007 is Respect Life Sunday. The first Sunday of October is set aside for all people who respect life to join in Life Chains across our nation. This public witness to Life is part of a national movement. There are over 900 Life Chains held throughout the United States from 2:00 P.M. to 3:00 P.M. The Life Chain is a visual statement to the community that we stand united against the abortion of 1.3 million babies per year in the USA and 95,000 babies per year in Florida. We are asking all Knights of Columbus councils to support the Life Chain nearest you. Check with your District Deputy or at the Florida K of C web-site for the phone number of the Diocesan Respect Life Director in your diocese to find out where the Life Chains are being held.
"Human life must be respected and protected absolutely from the moment of conception. From the first moment of his existence, a human being must be recognized as having the rights of a person - among which is the inviolable right of every innocent being to life." – Catechism of the Catholic Church 2270
In my August report, I reminded you about filling in your State Award Books or at least taking notes monthly so that you get credit for all the great work your councils do for the Knights of Columbus. It’s very easy to forget something if you leave this task until the deadline (March 31st). By the end of December, we will be 9 months into our award period. Note: Participation in the State Membership Program and the Florida K of C Charities Program are required – if you fail to submit a Membership State Report or fail to participate in some way in our Florida K of C Charities Program, your council will not be eligible for a State award. Remember that beginning in 2008, for the 2007 calendar year, there’s new requirement. Organizations currently do not have an annual filing requirement when their gross receipts are less than $25,000. To avoid loss of our exempt status with the federal government, each council, home corporation and assembly should be sure it has its own employer identification number (EIN) issued by the IRS. This is a necessity, for annual filing procedures. All councils and assemblies that do not file Form 990EZ or 990T, will have to file the new e-post card Form 990-N by May 15th. By December 1st, the Soccer Challenge Participation Report (Form 4567) is due. Copies sent to Supreme, State Deputy, and DD. The Annual Survey of Fraternal Activities, (Form 1728) is due January 31. This form is a requirement to be considered or any Supreme Award. Also due the end of January is the Partnership Profile Report with Special Olympics (Form 4584). This form must be filled in by all councils, even if you did not have any involvement with Special Olympics for 2007. Copies on both these forms sent to Supreme, State Deputy, and DD. Thanks for your assistance and cooperation.
Pray for our Troops Lord, hold our troops in your loving hands. Protect them as they protect us. Bless them and their families for the selfless acts they perform for us in our time of need. Amen.
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State Officers State Deputy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . James Schonefeld General Program Administrator . . . . . . . . . . . Douglas Murray State Chaplain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Rev. Ed McCarthy State Secretary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Richard Krohn State Treasurer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Christopher Kernan State Advocate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Paul Koppie State Warden . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Don Goolesby Immediate Past State Deputy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Robert Read Membership Administrator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Peter Bishop K of C Charities Administrator . . . . . . . . . . . . Dewey Marshall Aide to the State Deputy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Vincent Federico Website . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . floridastatecouncil.com Editor ................................................Nicholas “Nick” France Please send articles and photos for consideration for publication in the Communicator to: Nick France, 7914 Rusty Hook Ct., Hudson, FL 34667 or e-mail (prefered) to: listserv@floridastatecouncil.com Printed and Distributed by BocaColorGraphics, Boca Raton, FL
Florida State Council Knights of Columbus 139 N.W. 3rd Street Boca Raton, FLorida 33432
Experience of a Lifetime
Celebrate the Knights From The Ladies, Authored by Diane Grieco
We’re gathered here to celebrate the Knights It has nothing to do with the dark Lots of family, friends and fun At wonderful Van Zant Park It all started with Father McGivney That man of faith and action And continues with many others With the Lord as the main attraction These Knights are a blessed crew While sometimes tasting the brew But it’s always understood They travel the streets and even the hood They keep the faith alive I’m telling ya it’s no jive They’re awesome guys as a whole While selling the tootsie rolls They cook the breakfast on occasion There’s a link between the Knights and vocation But to really tell ya the truth They’re looking for canonization They’re there to help the underdog
Through heat and rain and fog They’re there to help the poor They open many doors They offer help to the seminarians To encourage selfless service to the Church With moral and spiritual guidance These young men no longer need to search These Knights have a sense of dignity Which can’t be stripped of thee They support respect for life Through thick and thin and strife These Knights work with untiring zeal With their God - given liberties They never fall by the wayside They’re only here to please Let me tell you my Brothers and Sisters Gather round and listen to me These guys that are called the Knights Will always be heroes, don’t you agree?
Have a Blessed Advent and Christmas Season.
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