This month we honour the McKinnon family as the Knights’ Family of the Month. There’s not much happening around the parish that’s missing a McKinnon. Matt and his son Mike are true leaders in our council and parish. Matt is currently serving as a Trustee and Mike is our Recorder. I took over as Financial Secretary from Matt what seems like a lifetime ago. Congratulations to you both and thank you for all you do.
(Pictured, Matt McKinnon, Mike McKinnon and Joe Suminski)
The Knight of the Month is yours truly. This is a little like writing one’s own obituary. I guess I’ve been given this honour because I show up. Success is 90% just showing up.
Congratulations to the February Knight of the month; the illustrious Jim Burns. Jim’s been several roles as an officer, PGK and Sir Knight of the 4th Degree. I just love that guy!! Jim, thank you for all your contributions to the Council and Parish. Presenting the award this evening is our lovely and distinguished Deputy Grand Knight Greg Slubowski.
The family of the month is Joanne and Jim Parker. Jim has held several officer positions with our Council and is also a PGK. He too is a Sir Knight of the 4th Degree. His lovely wife Joanne sings in the choir. Thanks to you both for all you do for the Knights and the Parish.
Our Grand Knight is AWOL. The last known picture of him was Joe and Paul heading into Tijuana. I think it’s Tijuana. I hope Sue has him chipped so we can get him back. This feels shady! Joe, don’t worry, we’re holding down the fort.
Last night was the hit of the season. I have to say, this is the best Christmas Party I’ve been to in quite some time. They say good company, good food, and great music makes the difference. That certainly proved to be the case last night.
A special thanks go out to our Grand Knight Joe Suminski and his lovely wife Sue. Tremendous planning and thought went into making last night the special time it was. Along with Ron and Judy Stec, they were the advance team to get the place decorated and set up.
Joe MC’ed the event handing out several awards.
Knight of the Month, Deacon Kurt Godfryd. Deacon Kurt is a tremendous asset to our community and is present at many celebrations, Masses, Baptisms and special events. He’s very generous with his time and faith.
The Family of the Month, Mark and Sandy DiPaola. Mark and Sandy are present and help with so many of our programs. It’s rare to not have them there to help out.
Since this is a dual purpose event, Christmas Party AND Ladies Appreciation Night, Joe named Pat Bianchi as our 2017 Lady of the Year. And, since Pat and her hubby Bernie are seldom seen alone, Pat and Bernie are also our 2017 Family of The Year. Pat and Bernie are involved in many ministries at St Clement, from the food pantry to McRest and still finding time to help the Knights.
This year’s Knight of the Year is none other than Steve Betka. Steve has been a leader in our Council for many years. He’s held several officer positions; Advocate, Deputy Grand Knight, Grand Knight and now Chancellor. He the ringmaster for the Polish Dinner and leads our many parking lot efforts. He’s literally the chief cook and bottle washer. Thank you, Steve, for all your continued generosity.
Joe and Ron Stec honored our fallen brothers this year. We lost both Ace Cudillo and Ed Walla. Our tradition is to add a Christmas bulb on our tree.
On a lighter note, everyone was thrilled Lester has regained his mojo! Welcome back, Lester!
1982 Called! They are looking for their Boone’s Farm back! (In fairness, I kinda loaded them up with wine for this picture!)
You can see all the pictures here by clicking on the image below.
On a side note, a few of us hardcore fans are off to see Star Wars, The Last Jedi on Thursday in Romeo at 7 pm. It’s not on the “office” council calendar but… We’d love to have you join us. If you’re interested, I suggest you BUY YOUR TICKETS WELL IN ADVANCE. This is the biggest movie of the year! I guess it’s time to get my Jar Jar Binks costume out of storage!
(click on the image above to go to the Romeo Theatre website.)
That’s almost all for this round.
And finally… what’s happening in this picture? Lord knows. Luckily, Mark was there to capture it. Thanks, Mark. I owe you! 🙂 I think Steve is openly scoffing at my legs!
Dan O’Brien is the November Knight of the Month. Dan shows up at almost everything. You’ll always know when Dan is in the house, the sweet, subtle aroma of coffee proceeds him! Thanks for all your service Dan.
The family of the Month, Karrie and Jean Illner. Karrie’s brought a ton of energy to the recruiting efforts and enthusiasm to our community. He and his awesome wife Jean have been a great addition to the good works of our order.
