Nebraska State Council Knights of Columbus
Report of the 112th Convention Held in Kearney, Nebraska April 28, 29, and 30, 2017 STATE OFFICERS 2016-2017
STATE DEPUTY Anthony (Tony) W. Hergott (Laurie) 4008 27th St Columbus NE 68601 (402) 564-9924 Home Council 12086, Columbus
PAST STATE DEPUTY Richard W. Lowery (Gail) 5010 S. 48th St Lincoln NE 68516 (402) 488-4667 (402) 432-6748 Home Council: 11001, Lincoln STATE OFFICERS 2016-2017
STATE CHAPLAIN
Rev. John Rooney 200 S. Walnut St Shelby NE 68622 (402) 527-5425 Home Council 14423 Shelby
ASSOCIATE STATE CHAPLAIN
Rev Kenneth Borowiak 7501 Yankee Woods Dr Lincoln NE 68516 (402) 328-8480 Home Council: 10913 STATE OFFICERS 2016-2017
STATE SECRETARY
Lou Gasper (Carole) 1847 Harrison Ave. Lincoln, NE 68502 (402) 476-0764 Home Council 11001, Lincoln
STATE TREASURER
Mark J. Borytsky (Audrey) 13005 S. 29th Place Bellevue, NE 68123 (402) 212-9612 Home Council 6192, Bellevue STATE OFFICERS 2016-2017
STATE ADVOCATE
Kenneth J. Leroy (Angela) 2008 Van Buren St. Bellevue, NE 68005 (402) 250-0627 Home Council 6192, Bellevue
STATE WARDEN
Matt Richardson (Connie) 2621 SW 19th Street Lincoln, NE 68522 (402) 380-3513 Home Council 11001, Lincoln STATE OFFICERS 2016-2017
SUPREME MEMBERSHIP PROGRAM CONSULTANT
Joe Ramirez, Sr. (Cheryl) 4305 Wakonda Parkway Des Moines, IA 50315 (203) 444-2954
EXECUTIVE SECRETARY
Ray Guggenberger 3101 Washington St,. #7 Bellevue, NE 68005 (402) 291-5925 Home Council 6192, Bellevue STATE OFFICERS 2016-2017
GENERAL AGENT - EAST
Kevin Pfeifer (Cindy) 312 N. Elm St, Ste 115 Grand Island, NE 68801 (308) 381-2075 Home Council 9562, Grand Island
GENERAL AGENT – WEST
Tony Swanson (Cathy) 105 N Hastings Ave., #212 Hastings, NE 68901 (308) 463-2845, Ext 1 Home Council 11823, Hastings STATE OFFICERS 2016-2017
GENERAL AGENT – NORTHEAST
Neil Pfeifer (Becky) 1500 Clark St. Norfolk, NE 68701 (402) 640-1239 Home Council 1793, Norfolk PROGRAM DIRECTORS/CHAIRMEN 2016-2017
Program Director Robert Wolf (Chris) 814 Canal St. Scottsbluff, NE 69361 (308) 635-0555; (308) 631-6170 Home Council: 2681
Council Director Nick Ladenburger (Kati) 35063 Rd. 702 Stratton, NE 69043 (308) 276-2261; (308) 340-3123 Home Council: 10163
Church Director Mark Dwyer (Julie) 83449 508th Ave. Bartlett, NE 68622 (402) 843-2479; (402) 843-6167 Home Council: 2411
Family Directors Jeffrey & Ginger Wardyn 79650 Sumner Rd. Broken Bow, NE 68822 (308) 872-2065; (308) 870-1697 Home Council: 2388
Youth Director Mitchell Lowery 5010 S 48th St. Lincoln, NE 68516 (402) 488-4667; (402) 540-1021 Home Council: 11001
Community Director Dan Engel (Kathy) 821 36 Road David City, NE 68632 (402) 367-2190 Home Council: 1717
Culture of Life Directors Brian & Mary Jo Hamik 824 Volkman Dr. Norfolk ,NE 68701 (402) 379-1665; (402) 841-2605 Home Council: 1793 PROGRAM DIRECTORS/CHAIRMEN 2016-2017
Intellectual Disabilities Directors Don & Terri Hypse 1019 Sherman St. Wayne, NE 68787 (402) 375-4574; (402) 369-0814 Home Council: 8579
Vocations Chairman Timothy Smith (Paulette) 1859 S. 126th St. Omaha, NE 68144 (402) 334-8141; (402) 699-1730 Home Council: 11700
Squires Co-Chairman David Marx","(Susan) 13617 Atwood Ave. Omaha, NE 68144 (402) 758-0023 Home Council: 9518
Squires Co-Chairman Dr. Therial Bynum, MD 5847 Elm St. Omaha, NE 68106 (402) 957-4159 Home Council: 652
Convention Coordinator Co-Chairman Larry Miksch (Mary) 27746 State Hwy. 22 Columbus, NE 68601 (402) 562-3689 Home Council: 12086
Convention Coordinator Co-Chairman James Jakub (Elaine) 4804 34th St. Columbus, NE 68601 (402) 563-2279; (402) 910-6857 Home Council: 12086
State FS Coordinator Co-Chairman Stephen Graff 1709 4th St. Fairbury, NE 68352 (402) 300-0485 Home Council 4434 PROGRAM DIRECTORS/CHAIRMEN 2016-2017
State FS Coordinator Co-Chairman Mitchell O'Neill 2110 12th Ave. Kearney, NE 68845 (308) 440-3330; (308) 440-3330 Home Council: 10923
State FS Training Coordinator Manny Gallardo (Lucy) 5324 S. 61st St. Lincoln, NE 68516 (402) 423-0782; (402) 525-5817 Home Council: 9563
Athletics Chairman Robert Ostdiek (Kris) 2120 S. 4th Ave. Beatrice, NE 68310 (402) 228-9401; (402) 806-8552 Home Council: 1723
Public Relations Chairman Ron Goodrich (Duffi) 8818 O’Hern St. Omaha, NE 68127 (402) 592-0823; (402) 968-6209 Home Council: 9518
Website Chairman Aaron Goodrich 8818 O’Hern St. Omaha, NE 68127 (402) 592-0823; (402) 597-1321 Home Council: 9518
Courier Editor Duffi Goodrich 8818 O’Hern St. Omaha, NE 68127 (402) 592-0823
Foundation Advisor Jerome Smith, PSD (Lillian) 19002 Cuming Cir. Elkhorn, NE 68022 (402) 289-2969; (402) 996-0874 Home Council: 10909 PROGRAM DIRECTORS/CHAIRMEN 2016-2017
Foundation Advisor Manny Gallardo (Lucy) 5324 S. 61st St. Lincoln, NE 68516 (402) 423-0782; (402) 525-5817 Home Council: 9563
Foundation Advisor Larry Peetz (Janet) 1217 Road 119 Sidney, NE 69162 (308) 254-4109; (308) 249-0443 Home Council: 1861
Production Specialist Andrew (AJ) Lowery 5010 S. 48th St. Lincoln, NE 68516 (402) 488-4667; (402) 937-3902 Home Council: 11001
Production Specialist (Staff) Joshua Hergott
STATE MEMBERSHIP PROGRAMS 2016-2017
Membership Director Kevin Ostdiek 1320 Ryuns St. Lincoln, NE 68522 (402) 438-2114; (402) 613-1381 Home Council: 11001
Regional Membership Chairman Al Pfeifer (Janet) 806 Husker Dr. Madison, NE 68748 (402) 454-3907; (402) 992-2166 Home Council: 8986
Regional Membership Chairman Ignacio Cervantes (Adela) 6417 Elmhurst Dr. Omaha, NE 68157 (402) 933-9674; (402) 871-6919 Home Council: 10815 STATE MEMBERSHIP PROGRAMS 2016-2017
Regional Membership Chairman Michael Esselstein (Beth) 130417 County Rd. D Mitchell, NE 69357 (308) 623-9985; (308) 631-9711 Home Council: 2681
Regional Membership Chairman Steven Dethlefs (Karen) 7050 Dutch Hall Rd. Omaha, NE 68152 (402) 573-5456; (402) 880-3149 Home Council: 10305
Regional Membership Chairman Stephen Lowery (Sammi) 5013 N. 32nd St., #3B Lincoln, NE 68504 (402) 540-1670 Home Council: 11001
Regional Membership Chairman Rod Hofschulte (PSD) 13814 Marinda Cir. Omaha, NE 68144 (402) 510-7250 Home Council 10909
CEREMONIALS CO-CHAIRMEN 2016-2076
Ceremonials Co-Chairman Larry Reed, PSD (Judy) 101 Kings Dr. Bellevue, NE 68005 (402) 292-2799; (402) 802-2923 Home Council: 6192
Ceremonials Co-Chairman David Wiedel (Becky) 635 Olive Ave. Hebron, NE 68370 (402) 768-6428; (402) 768-3579 Home Council: 1904 DISTRICT DEPUTIES 2016-2017
District 01 "Mark Keller (Sheila) 3416 Cornhusker Dr. Omaha, NE 68124 (402) 320-2648 Home Council: 13956
District 02 Deacon Michael Leick 1531 N. 72nd St. Omaha, NE 68114 (402) 689-0659 Home Council: 15101
District 03 Kevin Illian (Lou Ann) 7605 Nina St. Omaha, NE 68124 (402) 515-2746 Home Council: 9918
District 04 Stephen Little 8707 S. 143rd St. Omaha, NE 68138 (402) 690-1447 Home Council: 10160
District 05 Patrick Hanus (Suzanne) 13641 V St. Omaha, NE 68137 (402) 934-6575 Home Council: 3019
District 06 Dennis Schmidt (Karen) 20502 Wildwood Cir. Springfield, NE 68059 (402) 740-8811 Home Council: 10894
District 07 Dr. Stephen Severin, DVM (Ann) 70457 653 Blvd. Falls City, NE 68355 (402) 245-2013 Home Council: 1336 DISTRICT DEPUTIES 2016-2017
District 08 Matthew Schroeder (Laura) 1817 Summit St. Beatrice, NE 68310 (402) 694-1693 Home Council: 1723
District 09 Mark Kistler (Erin) 4645 Bancroft Ave. Lincoln, NE 68506 (402) 540-0945 Home Council: 9563
District 10 Rod Middagh (Ann) 163 Morman Trail Lincoln, NE 68521 (402) 474-7449 Home Council: 13576
District 11 Leland Buescher (Jolene) 1780 E. Assumption Rd. Glenvil, NE 68941 (402) 705-2329 Home Council: 11823
District 12 Terry Wehrs (Lori) 2465 O St. Rd. Milford, NE 68405 (402) 641-4657 Home Council: 8469
District 13 Rolland Dvorak (Elaine) 32 Pioneer Lk. North Bend, NE 68649 (402) 652-8205 Home Council: 3736
District 14 Donald Cech (Denise) 312 Grace St. Howells, NE 68641 (402) 986-0915 Home Council: 5439 DISTRICT DEPUTIES 2016-2017
District 15 Kenneth Prokop (Shirley) 1120 N. Pearl St. Wayne, NE 68787 (402) 375-3657 Home Council: 8579
District 16 Doyle Stevens (Joyce) 89463 Highway 81 Crofton, NE 68730 (402) 388-2477 Home Council: 14685
District 17 William Fehringer (Celine) 54905 H and N Blvd. Pierce, NE 68767 (402) 329-4959 Home Council: 11054
District 18 Mark Dwyer (Julie) 83449 508th Ave. Bartlett, NE 68622 (402) 843-2479 Home Council 2411
District 19 Ronald Faltys 115 D St. Schuyler, NE 68661 (402) 352-3513 Home Council: 2716
District 20 Dan Rosno (Jenny) 32543 475 Ave. Genoa, NE 68640 (402) 993-7760 Home Council: 10607
District 21 David Inman (Linda) 426 S 11th St. Albion, NE 68620 (402) 395-6207 Home Council: 1379 DISTRICT DEPUTIES 2016-2017
District 22 Charles Donner (Patricia) 1818 W. Charles St. Grand Island, NE 68803 (308) 384-4247 Home Council: 1159
District 23 David Wiedel (Becky) 635 Olive Ave. Hebron, NE 68370 (402) 768-6428 Home Council: 1904
District 24 Mitch O'Neill 2110 12th Ave. Kearney, NE 68845 (308) 440-3330 Home Council: 10923
District 25 Marvin Wardyn (Rhonda) 46713 786th Rd. Litchfield, NE 68852 (308) 446-2213 Home Council: 5455
District 26 John Mathis 812 N Collins St. Atkinson, NE 68713 (402) 925-2533 Home Council: 4707
District 27 Kelly Russell (Tammy) 527 N. Hugh St. Valentine, NE 69201 (402) 376-5342 Home Council: 4707
District 28 William (Mike) Stromitis (Cheryl) 1111 W. 9th St. North Platte, NE 69101 (308) 530-5003 Home Council: 1211 DISTRICT DEPUTIES 2016-2017
District 29 Gerald Colson (Louise) 417 Flannery Ave. Cambridge ,NE 69022 (308) 737-7697 Home Council: 7734
District 30 Kent Lorens (Marilyn) 70377 Road 353 Stratton, NE 69043 (308) 276-2335 Home Council: 10163
District 31 James Pelster (Henrietta) 2222 Road 109 Sidney, NE 69162 (308) 254-4222 Home Council: 1861
District 32 Jerome (JJ) Smith (Maureen) 1442 Colorado Ave. Alliance, NE 69301 (308) 762-9471 Home Council: 975
District 33 Dr. Therial Bynum, MD 4371 Hamilton St., Apt 3 Omaha, NE 68131 (402) 647-4590 Home Council: 652
District 34 Dr. Bryan Welty, DVM 7531 Poplar Rd. Lincoln, NE 68506 (402) 489-5545 Home Council: 4923
District 35 Glen Kampschneider (Renee) 8015 N 127th Ave. Omaha, NE 68142 (402) 6901-0611 Home Council: 10795 DISTRICT DEPUTIES 2016-2017
District 36 Daniel Whitehead (Hilda) 11512 Maass Rd., Apt 207 Bellevue, NE 68123 (402) 968-5663 Home Council: 6192
District 37 Peter J. Peil (Catherine) PO Box 251 Osceola, NE 68651 (402) 747-8904 Home Council: 5383
District 38 Kenneth Sabata (Clarice) 1445 Little Salt Rd. Valparaiso, NE 68065 (402) 784-3154 Home Council: 8625
District 39 Joseph Keaschall (Deb) 7855 SW 18th St. Lincoln, NE 68523 (402) 328-8960 Home Council: 11737
District 40 Donald (Scott) Bonham (Debra) 760 S. Shore Dr. Hastings, NE 68901 (402) 462-9295 Home Council: 1123
District 41 Patrick O'Shea, Jr. (Cathy) 1596 Lincoln Ave. Plattsmouth, NE" 68048 (402) 296-4787 Home Council: 1966
District 42 Chris Kreikemeier (Tiffany) 1018 N .Main St. West Point, NE 68788 (402) 380-9053 Home Council: 2272 REPORT OF THE ANNUAL 112th CONVENTION NEBRASKA STATE COUNCIL, KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS HELD IN KEARNEY, NEBRASKA ON THE 28th, 29th & 30th APRIL, 2017
FRIDAY, APRIL 28th, 2017 – INSURANCE AGENCY SOCIAL The Eastern, Western and Northeastern Agencies hosted a social in the Diamond Room, Younes Conference Center, Kearney, Nebraska. The guests were offered a Knights of Columbus water bottle. The guests were give 1 drink ticket for a beverage due to liability considerations.
FRIDAY, APRIL 28th, 2017 – AWARDS BANQUET Awards were given to various councils and brother knights across the State at the Annual Knights of Columbus Convention. Emcee for the evening was State Program Director, Robert Wolf. The complete awards listing follows:
Award Category Type Div. Place Council Name Publicity Publicity 1 1st St. Ann Publicity 2 1st St. Joseph Publicity 3 1st St. Stephen Publicity 4 1st Columban
Publicity 1 2nd Saint Pius the Tenth Publicity 2 2nd Fr. Clement Bracht Publicity 3 2nd Blessed Sacrament Publicity 4 2nd Pius XII
Award Category Type Council Name Support of Vocatons Vocatons equal St. Mathews Support of Vocatons equal Msgr. Maurice Helmann
Award Category Type Place Council Name On-Going State Council Projects equal Monsignor David R. Hintz On-Going Projects equal Fr. Timothy P. Molony
Award Category Type Place Council Name Supreme Service Culture of Life Award 1st St. Vincent DePaul Council State Service Award 2nd Saint Peter
Award Category Type Place Council Name Culture of Life Art Culture of Life Contest 1st St. Francis Borgia Culture of Life Art Contest 2nd St. Vincent DePaul Council Culture of Life Art Contest 3rd St. Vincent DePaul Council
Award Category Type Div. Place Council Name One Rose Culture of Life - One Life 1 1st St. James One Rose - One Life 2 1st Pope John Paul II Council One Rose 3 1st Father Trayer's - One Life One Rose - One Life 4 1st St. Wenceslaus
One Rose - One Life 1 2nd Our Lady Of Guadalupe One Rose - One Life 2 2nd St. Anthony One Rose - One Life 3 2nd St. Mathews One Rose - One Life 4 2nd St. Vincent DePaul Council
Award Category Type Place Council Name Special State Council Project equal Saint Leonard Special Project equal St. Robert Bellarmine
Award Category Type Place Council Name Support of Catholic Church Educaton equal Tihen Support of Catholic Educaton equal St. Isaac Jogues
Award Category Type Place Council Name Supreme Service Church Award 1st Fr. Shine State Service Award 2nd St. Joseph
Award Category Type Place Council Name Leonard Feehan Memorial Communit Community y Service 1st Columban
Award Category Type Place Council Name Supreme Service Community Award 1st Tihen State Service Award 2nd St. Rose of Lima
Award Category Type Place Council Name Supreme Service Council Award 1st St. Isidore State Service Award 2nd Sacred Heart Council
Award Category Type Place Council Name Supreme Service Family Award 1st Columban State Service Award 2nd St. Mathews
Award Category Type Place Council Name Supreme Service Youth Award 1st St. Vincent DePaul Council State Service Award 2nd Fr. Clement Bracht
Award Category Type Place Council Name Youth Substance Abuse Poster Drug Abuse 1st Falls City 2nd Falls City 3rd Fr. Clement Bracht
Award Category Type Place Council Name Substance Abuse Youth Poster Alcohol Abuse 1st Falls City 2nd Fr. Clement Bracht 3rd Saint Boniface
Award Category Type Place Council Name Keep Christ in Youth Christmas 1st Cathedral of the Risen Christ 2nd St. Boniface 3rd St. Isaac Jogues
Award Category Type Div. Place Council Name Members hip Net Membership Gain 1 1st - Tie Victor Vifquain Members hip Net Gain 1 1st - Tie St. Rose of Lima Members hip Net Gain 2 1st Creighton University Members hip Net Gain 3 1st St. Mathews Members hip Net Gain 4 1st St. Vincent DePaul Council
Members hip Net Gain 1 2nd #N/A Members hip Net Gain 2 2nd - Tie St. John Neumann Members hip Net Gain 2 2nd - Tie St. Peter's Members hip Net Gain 2 2nd - Tie Father Ulenberg Members hip Net Gain 2 2nd - Tie St. Frances Dechantal Members hip Net Gain 2 2nd - Tie Our Lady of Good Counsel Members hip Net Gain 3 2nd St. Leo the Great Members hip Net Gain 4 2nd St. Joseph
Award Category Type Div. Place Council Name Highest Percent Membership Gain 1st Victor Vifquain Highest Percent Gain 2nd St. Rose of Lima Highest 3rd Fr. Robert Foster Jubilee Percent Gain
Award Category Type Place Council Name George Ceremonials Nussrallah 1st Blessed Sacrament
Award Category Type Div. Place Council Name ICC Awards ICC Gold 1st St. John Vianney ICC Gold 1st Gordon ICC Gold 1st St. Vincent DePaul ICC Gold 1st St. Stephen the Martyr ICC Gold 1st St. Vincent DePaul Council ICC Gold 1st Prince of Peace ICC Gold 1st Blessed Sacrament ICC Gold 1st St. Mathews ICC Gold 1st Monsignor David R. Hintz ICC Gold 1st Immaculate Concepton ICC Gold 1st St. Patrick's ICC Gold 1st St. Margaret Mary Alacoque ICC Gold 1st St. John Paul II - UNO
ICC Awards ICC Silver 2nd Father Trayer's ICC Silver 2nd Liberty ICC Silver 2nd St. Joseph ICC Silver 2nd Fr. Timothy P. Molony ICC Silver 2nd Father William Kearns ICC Silver 2nd St. John The Baptst ICC Silver 2nd St. Joseph ICC Silver 2nd St. Isidore ICC Silver 2nd St. Rose of Lima
ICC Bronze 3rd Holy Rosary ICC Bronze 3rd Pius XII ICC Bronze 3rd Sacred Heart ICC Bronze 3rd St. Peter & Paul ICC Bronze 3rd Fr. Shine ICC Bronze 3rd St. Boniface ICC Bronze 3rd Fr. Joseph Vanderheiden ICC Bronze 3rd St. Thomas Aquinas ICC Bronze 3rd Father Trecy ICC Bronze 3rd Fairbury ICC Bronze 3rd Christ the King ICC Bronze 3rd St. Frances Dechantal ICC Bronze 3rd Pope John XXIII ICC Bronze 3rd Columban ICC Bronze 3rd Archbishop Bergan ICC Bronze 3rd Father John P. Brock ICC Bronze 3rd Imperial ICC Bronze 3rd Lindsay ICC Bronze 3rd Victor Vifquain ICC Bronze 3rd Father John P. Stears ICC Bronze 3rd Monsignor Alois J. Klein ICC Bronze 3rd Saint Leonard ICC Bronze 3rd Cathedral of the Risen Christ ICC Bronze 3rd St. Elizabeth Ann ICC Bronze 3rd Fr. John V. Wallace ICC Bronze 3rd St. Robert Bellarmine ICC Bronze 3rd St. Francis Borgia ICC Bronze 3rd Fr. Auer ICC Bronze 3rd St. Joseph ICC Bronze 3rd St. James ICC Bronze 3rd St. Wenceslaus ICC Bronze 3rd Saint Michael's ICC Bronze 3rd St. Leo the Great ICC Bronze 3rd Msgr. Maurice Helmann ICC Bronze 3rd Holy Cross ICC Bronze 3rd Mary Our Queen ICC Bronze 3rd Bishop Glennon P. Flavin ICC Bronze 3rd St. Cecilia ICC Bronze 3rd S.E.R.C. Guadalupe ICC Bronze 3rd Saints Mary and Joseph ICC Bronze 3rd Fr. Robert Foster Jubilee ICC Bronze 3rd Fr. Leo Wolpert ICC Bronze 3rd St. Michael's of Spalding ICC Bronze 3rd St. Mary's/St. Joseph's ICC Bronze 3rd St. Charles Borromeo ICC Bronze 3rd St. Maximilian Kolbe ICC Bronze 3rd St. Patrick of Elkhorn ICC Bronze 3rd St. Mary's/St. Patrick's ICC Bronze 3rd Monsignor John Kean ICC Bronze 3rd Mary Queen of Angels
Award Category Type Place DD Name District Deputy of State Deputy the Year 1st Stephen Litle
2nd Kenneth Prokop
Award Category Type Place Council Name Knight of Council the Year 1st St. Charles Borromeo Knight of the Year 2nd St. Mathews
Award Category Type Place Council Name Family of Family the Year 1st St. Isidore Family of the Year 2nd Fr. William A. Foster
Award Category Type Place Agent's Name
Fraternali st of the State Council Year Spencer Ashburn
Award Category Type Place Council Name Money Intellectual Earned 1 1st Imperial Money Disability Earned 2 1st Father Ulenberg Money Earned 3 1st Prince of Peace Money Earned 4 1st St. Stephen the Martyr Award Category Type Div. Place Council Name Percentag Intellectual e Increase 1 1st St. Joseph's Percentag Disability e Increase 2 1st St. Francis Borgia Percentag e Increase 3 1st St. Peter & Paul Percentag e Increase 4 1st St. Stephen the Martyr
Percentag e Increase 1 2nd High-Line Percentag e Increase 2 2nd Fr. Frank R. Flicek Percentag e Increase 3 2nd Lindsay Percentag e Increase 4 2nd Fitzgerald
Percentag e Increase 1 3rd St. Mary Percentag e Increase 2 3rd Count Creighton Percentag e Increase 3 3rd St. Vincent DePaul Percentag e Increase 4 3rd Saint Peter
Award Category Type Div. Place Council Name Percent Insurance Gain 1st Saint Leonard Net Gain 1st St. Robert Bellarmine
SATURDAY, APRIL 29th, 2017 – MORNING FORUM This year’s forum and program featured Bishop James D. Conley, Lincoln Diocese, with a few words, Elaine Peacock and Charlotte Endorf. Elaine Peacock is a full time professional music minister and Charlotte Endorf is an author, speaker, and business women.
SATURDAY, APRIL 29th, 2017 – NOON LUNCHEON The noon luncheon was held in the Diamond Room at the Younes Conference Center, Kearney, Nebraska. The “2017 Family of the Year” was awarded to the Jeff and Cathy Golkie from Council 12086 in Columbus. The runner up family was awarded to the Fred and Maria Abboud family from Council 9518 in Ralston.
SATURDAY, APRIL 29th, 2017 – BUSINESS MEETING State Deputy Hergott called to order the State meeting of the 112th Annual Convention in the 3rd Section at 1:45 PM in the Crystal Room at the Younes conference Center. He further stated that Admissions Degree (First) members of councils 7988 and 16680 or higher are permitted to remain in the chamber. Deputy Hergott called on State Warden Richardson, “Are all present in possession of a current membership card and are they seated in their proper seats.?” Warden Richardson so vouched. Deputy Hergott called on State Chaplain Fr. John Rooney to lead the opening prayer. Deputy Hergott called on District Master James Haiar to lead the “Pledge of Allegiance.” Deputy Hergott called on Warden Richardson to escort our distinguished visitors from the Supreme Council, Thomas P. Smith, Jr., Chief Insurance Officer and Supreme Director from Connecticut, and Michael Conrad, PSD, Nebraska and Supreme Director, to the dais. All responded with a hearty Nebraska welcome for the Supreme guests. “We are indeed honored to have you grace us with your presence and we hope your stay here will be an enjoyable and most memorable one,” Deputy Hergott stated. Deputy Hergott then introduced Immediate Past State Deputy Richard Lowery as the Parliamentarian for this Convention. IPSD Lowery acknowledged the assembly and stated that “Robert’s Rules of Order” would be followed for this meeting. Deputy Hergott called on State Secretary Louis Gasper to introduce this year’s recorder and to read any communications received. Secretary Gasper introduced Executive Secretary Raymond Guggenberger from Bellevue Council 6192. Deputy Hergott asked Secretary Gasper to read the communications received and to conduct the official roll call. Delegates are reminded that they must attend both business meetings to receive their expense checks. Secretary Gasper read the following communications.
March 9, 2017
Anthony Hergott, State Deputy Nebraska State Council Knights of Columbus
Worthy State Deputy and dear Brother Hergott:
In my own name, and on behalf of the Supreme Officers and Board of Directors, I offer greetings to you and all my brother Knights as the Nebraska State Council gathers for its annual convention. Your meeting is a valuable opportunity to review and honor the achievements of the past fraternal year, and to plan for still greater success in the year ahead. You come together as our Order celebrates its 135th anniversary. Much has changed, yet the vision of Father Michael McGivney endures and the need for the Knights of Columbus has never been greater — to strengthen the faith of Catholic men; to build up our families as domestic churches and safeguard them from financial ruin; to stand in solidarity with our priests and bishops; to serve our brothers and sisters in need, whether they are a hungry child next door or a persecuted Christian in the Middle East. Membership growth must be a perennial priority for every state council, since with every new Brother Knight, our Order can offer even more charitable and volunteer service to our communities and parishes. We have a moral obligation to inviteevery eligible Catholic man to become a Knight, and give him the opportunity to protect his family through our extraordinary insurance program. Finally, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to you, to the state officers and program directors, district deputies, council officers, general and field agents, and each and every brother Knight who has helped bring to life the vision of Father McGivney in Nebraska. May Our Lady of Guadalupe watch over and guide your convention, and may Venerable Father Michael McGivney intercede for us all.
Fraternally, Carl A. Anderson Supreme Knight
Secretary Gasper continued, “Communicaitons were also received from Archbishop Emeritus Elden Curtiss, Bishop Emeritus Fabian Bruskewitz, Bishop Emeritus and Former State Chaplain William Dendinger, Supreme Director Thomas Smith, Supreme Director Michael Conrad and the Honorable Stanley Clouse, Mayor of Kearney. These communications will be entered into the Proceedings without being read and will be available for review when published.”
Secretary Gasper continued, “As a point of order for this convention, any council making a motion, or seotionconding a m will announce loudly the number or name of your council. The Chair shall repeat the number for the recorder. We will have a roll call. Delegates must be present during both sessions to receive their expense checks.” State Deputy - present Immediate Past Deputy Lowery - present State Chaplain Reverend Rooney - present State Secretary Gasper - present State Treasurer Borytsky - excused State Advocate Leroy - excused State Warden Richardson - present
District #1, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have ___2______. District #2, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have ___7______. District #3, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have ___3______. District #4, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have ___8______. District #5, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have ___4______. District #6, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have ___5______. District #7, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have ___2_____. District #8, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have ___4_____. District #9, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have ___6______. District #10, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __7______. District #11, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __3______. District #12, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __2 ______. District #13, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __7______. District #14, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __3______. District #15, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __5______. District #16, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __1______. District #17, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __5______. District #18, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __4______. District #19, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __8______. District #20, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __2______. District #21, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __3______. District #22, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __7______. District #23, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __6______. District #24, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __8______. District #25, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __6______. District #26, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __4______. District #27, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __0______. District #28, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __6______. District #29, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __3______. District #30, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __5______. District #31, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __6______. District #32, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __5______. District #33, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __7______. District #34, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __7______. District #35, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __6______. District #36, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __3______. District #37, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __5______. District #38, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __5______. District #39, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __6______. District #40, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __6______. District #41, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __4______. District #42, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __2______.
“Worthy State Deputy, the roll call has been completed. I return the gavel.” During the roll call vote, the directors and chairmen collected the ballots from the delegates which were provided as each delegate registered. State Deputy Hergott continued, “Program Director Wolf, please take the ballots and retire to talley the vote. I have appointed Past State Deputy and District Master Jim Haiar to be the official judge. While we await the results, we will continue with our reports. I relinquish the gavel to Secretary Gasper.” Secretary Gasper called on Deputy Hergott for his annual report. REPORT OF THE STATE DEPUTY Worthy State Chaplain Father John Rooney, Worthy Associate State Chaplain Father Borowiak, Reverend Fathers, Worthy Supreme Director and Chief Insurance Officer Thomas Smith, Worthy Supreme Director Michael Conrad, Fellow State Officers, District Deputies, Directors and Chairmen, Delegates and Knights of Columbus members assembled here for our 112th annual state convention in Kearney Nebraska on this the 29th day of April 2017, greetings and may the Grace and Peace of Christ be with you. It has indeed been an honor and privilege to serve you - 26,408 Brother Knights - in Nebraska as State Deputy. I respectfully submit the following report. It was just a year ago when the delegation at the 111th Annual State Convention unanimously re-elected me as your State Deputy. This vote of confidence was only the beginning of a blessed and memorable year for me and my family. It’s because of you, the people and families of this One Body in Christ, that I have found this honor so gratifying and humbling. This past year has been filled with challenges and blessings of evangelizing and sharing the mission of the Knights of Columbus with others. It has also been an opportunity to experience the Gospel principles of our Order brought to life through the many council activities and events I have attended across the state. Thank each and every one of you, my Brother Knights, for fulfilling the duties and the dreams of Father Michael J. McGivney. While writing this report, I’m reminded of two important people in my life, my wife Laurie and our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. The Lord has richly blessed me with my wife and family. Laurie and the kids have stood by my side, encouraged me, shared ideas, and offered constructive criticism all while being faithful supporters. They have shared their husband and father with their extended family that is the Knights of Columbus. This is just another way in which I have been blessed. I’m especially proud of my youngest son Josh who joined our Order in March. To my fellow State Officers and supporting staff, thank you for your unwavering support and friendship. It is your commitment and dedication to the Nebraska Knights of Columbus membership which made this fraternal year’s accomplishments possible. It is that same support and love of neighbor which motivates me to strive for greatness and reach for loftier goals and to become better at all I do. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. To our Worthy State Chaplain Father John Rooney, words cannot express my love for you not only as a faithful servant of our Lord and Shephard of this flock, but also as a friend. God bless you and thank you for being our spiritual director and an inspiration to all of us. Please join me in showing State Chaplain Father John Rooney our appreciation. This fraternal year the State Officers welcomed another spiritual leader to our family. It has been a blessing to have Associate State Chaplain Father Borowiak on our team. I thank you for your prayers, wisdom, and spiritual guidance. God bless you for all you have done and will continue to do for the State Council. To all my program and membership directors and chairmen, I have often spoken of you as among the very best to have served in these capacities and I stand here today reaffirming that very sentiment. I pray you are as proud of this team's accomplishments as I am. Congratulations for a job well done and thank you for sharing your energy, time, and talents with the Sate and making this year so successful.
SUPREME MEETINGS Laurie and I attended the State Deputies' meeting in New Haven Connecticut June 9-12, 2016. The 74 jurisdiction leaders from around the world gathered to nurture their faith in daily Masses, hear addresses from Supreme Knight Carl Anderson, from Supreme Chaplain Archbishop William Lori, learn together in workshops, get reacquainted with each other, and get to know the incoming State Deputies during social activities. We once again had the opportunity to attend Mass at the birthplace of our honored Order, St. Mary’s Church. This year we witnessed the installation of the new State Deputies by Supreme Knight Carl Anderson. Topics of discussion included but were not limited to: keys to success, membership 365, establishing long-term growth goals, and focusing on youth and youthful leadership. Action plans were reviewed and 2016-2017 incentives and goals were presented. Later in June, State Secretary Lou Gasper, State Program Director Bob Wolf, and State Membership Director Kevin Ostdiek attended a training session in Dallas Texas. They received guidance and training and were also presented incentives and goals. Laurie and I were blessed to lead the Nebraska Delegation at the 134th Supreme Convention in Toronto the first week of August 2016. It was an experience of a lifetime for all those in attendance. State Deputy Tony Hergott of Columbus, State Chaplain Father Rooney of Shelby, Immediate Past State Deputy Richard Lowery of Lincoln, State Secretary Lou Gasper of Lincoln, District Deputy Kent Lorens of Stratton, District Deputy Deacon Mike Leick of Omaha, District Deputy Chris Kreikemeier of West Point, Steve Beller of Norfolk, Mike Vaughn of Plattsmouth, Larry Koerner of Crete, and Dennis Podjenski of Omaha honorably represented the Nebraska Knights of Columbus. During his address, Supreme Knight Carl Anderson noted the Order’s record levels of charity, with over $175 million in donations and over 73.5 million hours of volunteer service. Mr. Anderson also spoke of Pope Francis' call for Catholics to a new sense of missionary discipleship and fraternal brotherhood and his great confidence in the Knights of Columbus. Carl Anderson said, “Our charity is motivated by faith and our faith is a gift to be shared ... When we bring new men into the Order, we give them the opportunity to be better Catholics and we multiply the good works that we can do.” I also had the opportunity to accept the Circle of Honor Award on your behalf. It had been eight years since Nebraska last received the great honor. Congratulations Nebraska! Orlando Florida was the location of the Supreme mid-year State Deputy meeting November 18- 20, 2016. Supreme Knight Carl Anderson gave yet another inspirational speech on strategies to help councils. He said the first and primary responsibility as leaders of the Knights of Columbus is to assure continued growth and sustainability of our Order. He stressed that charitable activities are extremely important but are not sufficient enough to advance the Good of the Order without continued membership growth. I am proud to announce Nebraska has recorded positive membership growth for 36 consecutive years. Congratulations my Brothers!
STATE MEETINGS Our Grand Knight/Financial Secretary organizational meeting was July 15-17, 2016 at the Ramada / Rivers Edge Convention Center in Columbus. State Program Director Bob Wolf and his staff of directors and chairmen, along with and State Membership Director Kevin Ostdiek and his team of regional membership directors, introduced their respective programs, incentives and goals for this fraternal year. The Inter-Council Competition awards program, better known as ICC, was re-introduced with a couple slight adjustments. It was a privilege to introduce our new District Deputies and later install them at the Saturday night Mass at St. Isidore with His Excellency The Most Reverend Bishop Hanefeldt of the Diocese of Grand Island officiating. Saturday evening, following the dinner banquet, those in attendance were treated to a dance. The State Officers and District Deputies gathered December 2-4 at the Divots Conference Center and Norfolk Lodge and Suites for the 2016 Nebraska State Council Mid-Year meetings. We discussed the many challenges we face in carrying out the mission of the Knights of Columbus including, but not limited to, recruiting young men and fathers of young families. Other topics discussed were programs relevant to families with young children and the necessity to recruit younger members with respect to the limited time young fathers have to participate in activities outside the home. Familiarization with tools such as the Internet, social media, and text messaging were also discussed. This meeting later provided an opportunity to reestablish goals on membership for the final six months of the year. Kevin Ostdiek and his membership team did an outstanding job presenting new incentives and goals for our District Deputies to take to their respective councils in order to increase their evangelizing efforts. I had the opportunity to attend numerous council meetings, functions, and events across our great state, including a 100 Year Anniversary Celebration in Sidney honoring Msgr. Anton Link Council 1861. What an amazing evening it was. Attending these types of events is probably the most fulling part of my job. I get to meet so many faith-filled families and be witness to the good works performed daily in our parishes and communities statewide. What a joy it is to serve you as State Deputy.
MEMBERSHIP State Membership Director Kevin Ostdiek and his team consisting of Al Pfeifer, Iggy Cervantes, Mike Esselstein, Steven Dethlefs, Stephen Lowery, and PSD Rod Hofschulte have done an exceptional job. After experiencing the thrill of victory last year, this team has our state on track to once again achieve Circle of Honor status. To date your evangelization efforts have produced nearly 90% of our fraternal year intake goal of 895 new members, placing the Nebraska Jurisdiction at #10 in the Order. We have also surpassed our Net Goal of 630 and Net/Net Goal of 315. I’m also pleased to announce we have achieved our new council development goal of one new council. Would the Grand Knight and any other representative from newly established St. John Paul II – UNO Council 16680 stand to be recognized? Thank you, Worthy Grand Knight and Brother Ian Ostdiek, for being here today. Rest assured Father Taphorn and Father Roza that the State Council remains committed to your new council’s success and we wish you well! Another task I challenged the team with was to reduce the number of suspended councils from five to three. It gives me great pleasure to announce that goal has also been achieved. Burwell Council 7959 has merged with Ord Council 2292, and Gordon Council 7988 has been re-activated and will soon have an election of officers. As we continue our evangelization efforts, we must remember each of us has a moral obligation to offer the gift of membership to every eligible Catholic man. I invite all Brother Knights to share your faith by offering that gift of membership.
CEREMONIALS PSD Larry Reed and David Wiedel have done well with ceremonials. A minimum goal of one Major Exemplification per district was set forth. With 42 districts, that is a lofty goal. A total of 50 Major Exemplifications were scheduled throughout the state of which I will have or will have attended 30 of these. Because of many Brother knights giving of their time and talents, Nebraska is blessed to have seven Formation and seven Knighthood Degree Teams. I would like to take this opportunity to sincerely express my appreciation to all ceremonial teams for their hard work and dedication and the sacrifice of time away from your families several weekends a year.
PROGRAMS This year has been a very busy time for all of us. State Program Director Bob Wolf and all our Directors and Chairmen have done an outstanding job conducting and maintaining state sponsored programs including in the ICC Awards Program. You witnessed its success at last night’s awards banquet and at today’s meeting at which the 2nd annual ICC champion of the year was crowned. As a state, we conducted the Supreme-sponsored Silver Rose Program which made 31 stops in 29 days, picked up at the Colorado border and delivered to the Kansas border south of McCook. The run began its statewide tour at the conclusion of the Grand Knight Seminar, first at St Isidore Council 12086 in Columbus, and made its last stops at Councils 1211 and 10506 in North Platte. The State Council again conducted an extremely successful Coats for Kids project at Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska in Lincoln on November 12th. Because this day was also a home Husker football game, we decided to give it a tailgate atmosphere, offering the kids and families hotdogs, chips, and drinks after being fitted with a new coat, hat, and gloves. Special guests include but were not limited to His Excellency Bishop James Conley, Heisman Trophy winner Johnny “The Jet” Rodgers, Outland and Lombardi Trophy winner Rich Glover, former NFL lineman Chris Bober, many UNL student athletes, a Nebraska State Patrolman, and Teammates representatives . More than 130 volunteers representing 19 councils from eight different cities were vital to its success. Participating Councils were 833, 1793, 3019, 4923, 5529, 6192, 9563, 9704, 10305, 10510, 10909, 10913, 11001, 11280, 12086, 13015, 13576, 14423, and 15407. Their reward was the many hugs and “thank yous” received from the more than 800 children receiving the gift of warmth that day. The Supreme Council sent the “Spirit Juice” photographer and video crew which later produced a video to document the success of the event. The video can be found on the State and Supreme website. What and amazing experience it was! A special thanks to the Supreme Council who matched coat for coat those we purchased, the many corporate sponsors, and of course the many local councils who gave their time, prayers, and monetary support. The Holy Family Icons have also made a tour around the state stopping in all 42 districts. They were sent forth from Kearney at last year’s State Convention and made their return this year . They have been on display throughout the weekend. A record amount of ICC Gold, Silver, and Bronze qualifiers were recognized at last night’s awards banquet. A total of 10 Gold, 11 Silver, and 51 bronze winners received awards. That is 72 (42%) councils in all receiving recognition for their good works in continuing the mission of the Knights of Columbus in their parish communities. Thank you delegates and all Brother Knights for the good works you continue to do.
INSURANCE Nebraska is blessed to have three of the Order's top General Agents. Neil Pfeifer serves Northeast Nebraska, Tony Swanson serves Central and Western Nebraska, and last but not least, Kevin Pfeifer serves Eastern Nebraska. What can I say about these three men and their crew of field agents? You will not find a better group of men more dedicated to the protection of our Brother Knights and their families. Our GA’s diligently work to obtain the manpower to staff councils with active viable agents. This is not an easy task and they continue to work hard to find the right fit of professional, courteous, and well-informed agents to assist in protecting our families. Nebraska continues to enjoy an amazing and unique relationship with our insurance force and we are proud to call each of them our friend and Brother. Thank you for all you do.
SQUIRES I would like to thank David Marx and Dr. Therial Bynum, MD for overseeing the Nebraska State Squires. Each has done an outstanding job as a counselor, working with our Order’s future leaders. We can expect our current Squires Circles to help pave the way as the Order’s focus on youth is shifting more toward parish-based youth programs. I understand State Chief Squire Nathan Marx will be entering the Army following his high school graduation. He is now a 3rd Degree Knight and is planning to become a Fourth Degree member in Lincoln next weekend. Nathan, thank you in advance for your service to this great country! I’m proud of you and all our future leaders within the Squires. Please support the Squires by stopping by their Country Store and purchasing the beautiful selection of items on display.
FOURTH DEGREE It is a great honor to serve with District Master Jim Haiar. Past State Deputy Haiar, in his 2nd year, has conducted Patriotic Degree Exemplifications in Ralston, North Platte, Hebron, Norfolk, and Alliance thus far. Next week Lincoln will host an exemplification while Omaha will host one June 25. Our Patriotic Degree members are the most visible and recognizable members of the Order. I encourage all Knights to consider becoming members of Patriotic Degree and making it more visible than ever before. As a Veteran, I am proud to be a Sir Knight and ask all those having earned the honor of Knighthood in our Order to also consider joining the Patriotic Degree.
VOCATIONS “In Solidarity with our Priests” is the unwritten rule of our Order. Our dedication to our clergy and religious has earned us the reputation as the “Strong Right Arm of the Church.” We need to continue this dedication and support of all vocations. While our state raffle continues to struggle due to state gaming and postal laws, I’m proud to announce we were once again able to provide each seminarian in the state with a Christmas gift of $200 this year. I encourage you to continue to support our Seminarian Fund by purchasing raffle tickets. I also thank those councils who participate in the RSVP Program. Please continue your prayers for vocations.
CHRISTOPHER FUND Since 1993, the Nebraska Jurisdiction has participated in a Supreme matching fund program known as the Christopher Fund. Currently, $123,845 has been contributed from the State Council which has been matched by Supreme for a total of $247,700. This year, the State has received $9,000 in benefits from the Christopher Fund which will be dispersed to the three dioceses for Catholic education. I will present two of those checks this weekend.
CULTURE OF LIFE Nebraska is blessed to have Brian and Mary Jo Hamik as Culture of Life Chairpersons. What a wonderful job they have done and I thank them from the bottom of my heart for all their efforts. Over $172,000 was distributed this fraternal year in support of life. One of the State's finest accomplishments this year was the purchase of another ultrasound machine made possible through the matching fund grant provided by the Knights of Columbus Supreme Council. I’m pleased to announce we have the funds to purchase more machines and are looking for pregnancy care centers that qualify for the Supreme Ultrasound Initiative. If your community has such a center, please contact us. We plan to continue to save lives one ultrasound at a time. I pray we will see the day when Roe v Wade is over turned and I congratulate each and every one of you for your efforts in this fight for the unborn. This is a fight we will not back down from; this is a fight we will win! All lives matter!
INTELLECTUAL DISABILITIES The State Intellectual Disabilities Foundation Chair Couple, Don and Terri Hypse, continues to do an outstanding job maintaining and growing this foundation. The program, formally known as the Tootsie Roll® Drive, continues to set new records in funds raised throughout the state to help those with intellectual disabilities. Once again a meeting was set up at the State Capital with Governor Pete Ricketts during which he signed a proclamation declaring October 3-9, 2016 as Support Citizens with Intellectual Disabilities Week. I then presented the Governor, who is a Brother Knight, with a box of Tootsie Rolls® in appreciation. I, along with several other State Officers, were very proud to represent each and every one of you at the signing of this proclamation.
NEBRASKA STATE COUNCIL MCGIVNEY FOUNDATION Foundation Advisors PSD Jerome Smith, Manny Gallardo, and Larry Peetz have helped grow and promote the foundation. The Nebraska State Council McGivney Foundation received its tax exempt 501(c) (3) status last year. This is something we should all be proud of. I am also pleased to announce the foundation has exceeded $500,000. The foundation continues to be our future, but we need your support in order for it to grow. All contributions are held in perpetuity with the income used for charitable purposes. This year we have dispersed $6,000 to families in need. We also have an additional $8,000 which could be dispersed for those who qualify for such funding. The purpose of this foundation is to enhance and support the quality of life in Nebraska while supporting the Knights of Columbus mission. Thanks to all councils and individuals who have made this possible. It’s important we remember the success of your foundation depends on you!
STATE DISASTER RELIEF FUND Through a donation from the Supreme Council in 2011, the State Council has been able to help several individuals who have been the victims of natural disasters with funds to help purchase food, clothing, and other immediate needs. Chaired by Past State Deputy Richard Lowery, applications available on the State website are reviewed by a committee, and those applications which are approved will receive a grant. Councils can provide additional funds that will be matched to a predetermined limit. COMMUNICATIONS Communication is vital to our success. Nebraska has an outstanding reputation for timely and accurate communications to members and officers. The Courier, published four times a year, is sent to every member within the state. We continue to encourage members, and especially Financial Secretaries, to sign up for electronic delivery. Our annual postage bill would be greatly reduced if more members would sign up through the website. Our website is another excellent source of up-to-date information, degree schedules, and events throughout the state.
Last year the State Council officially launched state Facebook and Twitter accounts. The move to social media has given us a new way to communicate to the younger members of our Order. Please go to nebraskakofc.org and like our Facebook page. This weekend we ask councils to use their Twitter account to share your convention experience by using #nekc2017. Ron, Duffi and Aaron Goodrich continue to do outstanding work in preparing much of the printed material for the state, including the Courier and annual directory. Aaron is our webmaster and continues to improve our website's functionality and content. Executive Secretary Ray Guggenberger continues to maintain our prayer list and diligently sends out requests every morning. Many requests have been answered through prayers from across the state and across the country. Ray also manages all of the communication for the State Convention, Grand Knight Seminar, and Mid-Year Meeting, as well as other information that needs to be distributed either by mail or in electronic format.
DISTRICT DEPUTIES This fraternal year we have 42 Districts with dedicated Brother Knights who represent the State Council at local council meetings and functions. Please accept my most sincere appreciation for all your leadership and commitment to growing the Order and furthering the Mission of the Knight of Columbus. You are the back bone of our Order. I have been blessed to work with the best group of District Deputies ever assembled in Nebraska. Thank you for all you do. I applaud each and every one of you! CLOSING In closing, I first wish to thank our Bishops for their continued and unwavering support of the Knights of Columbus. I also thank State Chaplain Father Rooney and Associate State Chaplain Father Borowiak as well as all the local Council Chaplains who help form us and guide us in our efforts to live out the Gospel principals of our Order. I wish to thank Supreme Membership and Program Consultant Joe Ramirez Jr. for sharing his expertise, insight, and knowledge with the State Officers, Membership and Program Teams, and of course myself. But most of all I thank each and every one of the more than 26,000 Brother Knights across this great State of Nebraska for saying “Yes” when the Lord called you to serve in this family ministry we call the Knights of Columbus. As Knights we are not allowed to be complacent. We, as “One Body in Christ,” are called to be men of character and conviction, driven by our Faith and conscience to selflessly serve our families, Church and communities. United we stand together in faith, dedicated to uphold the principles we cherish. There is a need for New Evangelization in order to combat the many challenges the Church faces today. I’m calling on all council leaders throughout the state to accelerate their efforts, working with their pastors to help strengthen their parishes and strengthen Christian family life within our communities. I pray each that of us can refocus our lives to be Christ centered. I truly believe that if we want to enter into God’s Kingdom, our passport is the Knights of Columbus. There is no organization in the world more committed to Pope Francis’s message of Charity, Unity, and reaching out to those in need than the Knights of Columbus! As Knights, our lives can act as a witness to our Faith. We are “One Body in Christ.” May God Bless you and may God Bless the mission of the Knights of Columbus!
Vivat Jesus!
Respectively Submitted, Anthony W Hergott Nebraska State Deputy
Secretary Gasper then said, “I move for the adoption of my report, is there a second?” Council 15101 seconded. The motion passed. “I also move for the adoption of the remaining state officers without being read and entered into the proceedings.” Council 12086 seconded. The motion passed.
CHAPLAINS' MEETING Present were Most Reverend James D. Conley, Bishop of Lincoln, Former State Chaplain Msgr. Ivan Vap, Fr. Thomas Lux, Fr. James Benton, Fr. Matthew Eickhoff, State Deputy Tony Hergott provided snacks and drinks that were enjoyed prior to the meeting. Tony stopped in to visit before the meeting began. Bishop Conley hardly needed an introduction since all the priests present were from the Diocese of Lincoln, but Fr. Rooney opened the session with a brief welcome to Bishop Conley and the priests who came. He thanked the priests for their service to the Church and to the Knights of Columbus. He stressed the value of the spiritual guidance of the chaplains in the councils. Bishop Conley came with a formal prepared talk, but given the audience, he allowed it to become a more informal presentation. Bishop spoke about the tyranny of noise, the need for silence, and the importance of Eucharistic Adoration. He quoted various sources including some recent articles he had written. One of them was recently published in the Columbia magazine. He spoke of the importance of silence for our lives and for our spiritual lives. He described how the sources of noise are all the more invasive because they are the objects we carry with us and become attached to - our phones and electronic devices that can provide continuous music and distraction. He described how Eucharistic Adoration is one of the few places remaining where we can enter into silence, and how important it is, particularly for us as priests. No one gives what he does not have. Priests must be people who can He spoke of initiatives he desires the Knights to foster that would promote a father taking his son to Adoration. This could be expanded to grandparents and to all children, but for the Knights as a group of Catholic men, he was offering the particular focus. He told stories of people who were profoundly impacted by seeing their father praying. The Bishop shared with us what he was currently reading, and a discussion of spiritual literature and also of resources for evangelization followed. All those present appreciated the opportunity for the spiritual insights and encouragement by Bishop Conley and the open discussion about spiritual and priestly concerns shared among the brother priests. Respectfully submitted, Fr. John Rooney, State Chaplain
STATE SECRETARY Worthy State Deputy, Anthony (Tony) Hergott ,Worthy Supreme Guest Tom Smith, Worthy Supreme Director Michael Conrad, Worthy State Chaplain Fr. Rooney, Worthy State Officers, District Deputies, Directors, Chairmen, Delegates, and Brother Knights attending the 112th Annual Nebraska State Convention in Kearney, NE, on April 28, 29, and 30, 2017. Greetings, It has indeed been an honor and a privilege to serve you - the more than 26,000 Brother Knights in Nebraska - as State Secretary. I respectfully submit the following report: As State Secretary my responsibilities were several; recording the official minutes of all state meetings including monthly tele-conference meetings, collecting per capita - this year’s first half per capita deadline was crucial for ICC Gol and we had 10 councils not meeting the deadline - maintaining records therein, classifying expenditures and income, writing official letters for the state, traveling to many council functions, meetings, and degrees as assigned, and supporting State Deputy Anthony (Tony) Hergott In June of 2016, I along with State Membership Director Kevin Ostdiek and State Program Director Bob Wolf traveled to Dallas to attend a Supreme meeting for State Secretaries, Membership and Program Directors. We spent an intensive day in meetings learning about Supreme programs and sharing ideas with other jurisdictions assigned to our Supreme Membership and Program Consultant Joe Ramirez. In preparation for this year’s State Convention, letters were drafted to Supreme Knight Carl Anderson, all bishops residing in the state, and the Mayor of Kearney, inviting them to attend our annual State Convention. Letters of greeting were received from Supreme Knight Anderson and all six of the Bishops residing in Nebraska, and the Mayor of Kearney. Credentials were received from 119 councils for attendance at the State Convention resulting in 208 delegates being seated for the business meeting. On Saturday, April 29, we held election for the new ICC champ. Nominations for delegates Supreme Convention were opened and needed to be turned in by end of business day on Saturday. State Deputy Hergott announced Nebraska is allowed nine delegates. This year only six elected spots were available. The non-elected delegate spots go to the State Deputy, Immediate Past State Deputy, the State Chaplain, and Executive Secretary. Nine Brother Knights had turned in their delegate information in by the end of close of business on Saturday. It has been a pleasure to travel across the state to the many different council activities as assigned by Worthy State Deputy Anthony (Tony) Hergott Carole and I have been blessed while having the opportunity to meet so many faith-filled Brother Knights and families, not to mention the witnessing of the many good works performed across this great state! Congratulations for all you do for the Knights of Columbus. I have enjoyed serving as your State Secretary this past year and look forward to being able to continue to serve you in the year to come. God Bless the Knights of Columbus, and you my Brother Knights and your families.
Respectively submitted, Lou Gasper, State Secretary
STATE TREASURER Worthy State Deputy Tony Hergott, Worthy State Chaplain Father Rooney, Worthy State Associate Chaplain Father Borowiak, Religious, Worthy Supreme Director Tom Smith, Worthy Supreme Director Mike Conrad, Worthy State Officers, District Deputies, Delegates, Directors, Chairmen and Brother Knights attending the 112th Annual Nebraska State Convention in Kearney Nebraska, 28-30 April 2017. To my Brother Knights and their families, I am honored to have served as your State Treasurer for the past year. I respectfully submit the following report: July 2016 - I managed all funds received and disbursed for the State the General account, Lottery/Sweepstakes accounts, and the Disaster Relief Fund. I am also accountable as a co-signer and monitor of the Squires, Culture of Life, Intellectual Disabilities and Nebraska Foundation accounts. I attended the Grand Knight Seminar in Grand Island, Nebraska. Mileage and per diem checks were prepared/distributed with no issues. November 2016 - Sent on behalf of our state, Christmas cheer of $200 each to 7seminarians identified by the three dioceses with addresses ranging from Seward Nebraska to Rome Italy. Along with the check was a Christmas note from our State Deputy. December 2016 - Attended the Mid-Year meeting. Mileage and per diem checks were prepared/distributed with no issues. April 2017 - I attended the State Convention. Along with assisting the convention dynamics as needed I chaired the Committee for Mileage and Per Diem. Thank you to all the council representatives who made this meeting a success. Mileage and per diem checks were prepared/distributed with no issues. As State Treasurer, I attended all meetings called by the State Deputy and performed my duties to the best of my abilities. I prepared all reports required and requested by the State, including those providing information on all accounts. I paid all bills directed by our State Deputy upon receiving signed vouchers from our State Secretary. Outside of the administrative responsibilities of being the State Treasurer, what I enjoyed the most was visiting state councils. I was privileged to attend several Major Degrees as a representative of the State Deputy. Joining the candidates through their religious and learning experiences makes me proud to be a Knight. Audrey and I were honored to be invited to numerous council functions joining them in celebrating their council’s event. I will truly miss being your State Treasurer. It has been an honor representing our state to Supreme and many organizations throughout my two years. Audrey and I look forward to whatever journey is ahead of us faithfully serving our Church, council and community. Thank you for your support and friendship. We will continue to pray for you and your family. May God bless you. The reports of the audit of the General Fund, the Culture of Life Foundation, the Intellectual Disabilities Foundation and the McGivney Foundation are at enclosures A, B C and D, respectively.
Respectfully submitted, Mark J. Borytsky STATE ADVOCATE Worthy State Deputy, Supreme Representatives, fellow State Officers, District Deputies, Directors, Chairmen, Delegates, and Brother Knights, since entering office as the State Advocate for the 2016 to 2017 Fraternal Year, I have performed as follows:
1. Prepared, coordinated, and filed all necessary federal and state Returns, Reports, and Forms required for the activities of the State Council and its related entities for the period except the complete comprehensive audit of the finances and Form 990 preparation of the State Council and all subordinate entities which were completed by a Nebraska CPA Firm.
2. Assisted local legal counsel with the creation of a Nebraska Non-Profit Corporation and obtaining 501(c) (3) charitable exemption for the same for purposes of transferring the State Council’s charitable Fund assets thereto.
3. Rendered numerous legal opinions for the State Council, Executive Committee, and State Officers concerning State Council matters as requested.
4. Rendered numerous legal opinions for local council officers on a variety of issues concerning local councils.
5. Reviewed contracts, performed legal research, prepared legal memoranda, drafted correspondence, and created other documents concerning various issues.
6. Maintained electronic Dockets for Recurring Matters, Ongoing Projects and Special Items, and Pending Actions and Litigation.
7. Attended as many scheduled and called State Council Meetings and meetings of all State Council subordinate entities and local council functions and degree work as my employment and family schedules permitted.
8. Performed disciplinary actions as needed pursuant to the laws of the Order;
9. Reviewed the State Council’s liability insurance coverage, consulted with the insurance agent concerning said coverage and event coverage, obtain additional coverage for special events as necessary, and arranged for and confirmed payment of policy premiums;
10. Solicited and prepared proposed Resolutions for the 2016 Nebraska State Convention and chaired the State Resolutions Committee and prepared to present the Committee’s recommendations to the assembled State Council.
It has been a special honor and privilege serving as the Knights of Columbus Nebraska State Advocate this past year. On behalf of my family and I, thank you. Fraternally yours, Kenneth J. LeRoy, Esq., Nebraska State Advocate
STATE WARDEN Worthy State Deputy Tony Hergott, Worthy Supreme Director Mike Conrad, Worthy Supreme Consultant Joe Ramirez, Worthy State Chaplain Father Rooney, Worthy Associate State Chaplain Father Borowiak, Worthy State Officers, District Deputies, Grand Knights, Directors, Chairmen, Support Staff, Delegates, Brother Knights and our families, welcome to the 112th Annual Nebraska State Convention in Kearney, Nebraska, the weekend of 28 April 2016. I respectfully submit my 2016/2017 report starting with attending all meetings called to order by the State Deputy and performed all assigned tasks successfully. The Mid-Winter meeting held in Norfolk during December 2016 was a success. All meetings held were informative and well received by the attendees. Lottery tickets were handed out with detailed instruction as to their dissemination and the collecting of tickets and funds. Ads submission for the state convention program book was mentioned for support. There were many events I attended throughout the year, seeing old friends and making new ones. Connie and I enjoyed being able to celebrate the councils' events, their fellowship and hospitality, and we thank them all for welcoming us to their event. I also attended services for the passing of Brother Knights and their family members. Being able to pray together as one family in the House of the Lord was special. My next major project was selling Ads for the Program Book given out at the State Convention in April 2017. The Knights and outside organizations did well submitting ads and we collected approximately $2,200 toward offsetting the cost of the Convention Program Book. A special thanks to Duffi, Ron, and Aaron Goodrich for their expertise and support during this extensive process. This Fraternal Year has been an exciting experience for me and my family. We have been blessed to be able to work for this great state representing over 25,000 Knights and their families. As my tenure comes to an end as State Warden, my family and I want to thank the Lord and all of you for your support and fellowship. Finally, a heartfelt thanks to all of you for your dedication to the Knights of Columbus, and to all the charitable contributions and selfless acts you demonstrated to the Church, council, and community. May God Bless you and your Family.
Respectfully submitted, Matthew R. Richardson, State Warden
PAST STATE DEPUTY Worthy State Deputy, Worthy Chief Insurance Officer Tom Smith, Worth Supreme Director Conrad, Your Excellencies, Worthy State Chaplain, Worthy Associate State Chaplain, Fellow State Officers, Worthy District Deputies, Directors, Chairmen, Delegates and Fellow Knights assembled here at the 112th State Convention in Kearney, Nebraska April 28-30, 2017, Greetings. I have attended all the State Council meetings called by our State Deputy and have represented the State at District Deputy meetings and other local council functions as directed by our State Deputy. Gail and I have enjoyed attending these council functions and thank each of you for your wonderful hospitality. In my capacity as Immediate Past State Deputy, I also attended the Supreme Convention in Toronto, Canada, as a delegate to the 134th Supreme Convention, August 2-4, 2016. As Immediate Past State Deputy, my responsibilities also include being the coordinator of the Disaster Relief Fund for the Nebraska Jurisdiction and head of the Audit Committee. This past year there were no disbursements from the Disaster Relief Fund. The audits for the Intellectual Disabilities, Culture of Life, and Nebraska State Council were completed. There were no material errors or concerns noted by the auditor. A copy of the Nebraska State Council audit was submitted to the Supreme Secretary and approved. Tax returns for the three entities were completed and filed with the IRS. Respectfully submitted, Richard W. Lowery
EXECUTIVE SECRETARY Worthy State Deputy Tony Hergott, State Officers, Delegates and Brother Knights attending the 112th Annual State Convention in Kearney, Nebraska on April 28, 29 and 30 April 2017. I attended to all routine correspondence for the State Council and mailed out such communications as the State Officers required. I attended all meetings called by the State Deputy. I prepared the minutes and proceedings of the 111th Annual State Meeting in Kearney for 2016. I prepared and mailed to all councils the semi-annual per capita billings for State Secretary Gasper. During this past year, I assisted in preparations for this convention by preparing and mailing all the documents and information sheets to our subordinate councils. During this past year, the State Council offered 41 Masses for the members of the State Council with the Columban Fathers Foreign Missionary Society. These are offered for serious illnesses and the passing of a Brother Knight or immediate family members. The reporting of our subordinate councils is up for the same time as last year; for the Report of Officers, we are 96% complete; the Report of Service Personnel, we are 84% complete. The Semi- Annual Audit for the period ending June 30, 2016 is 86% complete and for the period ending December 31, 2016 is 73% complete. At this time we have 23 councils that are two or more reports delinquent and our Supreme council has ended the bond on the Financial Secretary and Treasurer for these councils. I am again pleased to report that the Annual Report of Fraternal Activity was 100% complete as of January 31, 2017; we have been 100% for the last 22 years per Supreme records. This year we are one of two jurisdictions to be 100% on time. It is the same councils year-after-year that do not submit these vital reports, although some improvement is noted in the submission of these reports. There continues to be an increase in the number of councils filing these and other reports online with Supreme. For the 2016-2017 fraternal year I prepared the annual directory for the State of Nebraska. This is a time consuming task. I continued publishing a monthly email with directory changes to keep all update on changes to our directory. I maintain an electronic email mailing list for the prime purpose of notifying our members of requests for our prayers. I have approximately 2,000 addresses, and subordinate councils send these on to their individual members. We estimate that approximately 16,000 Brother Knights receive these requests for our prayers. Only two councils do not have email addresses. This year I served as Secretary for the Omaha Chapter recently formed by our State Deputy. I reviewed the Courier for content, etc., prior to publication of each issue. In closing, I wish to give a very special thank you to State Deputy Tony Hergott for the opportunity to continue to serve as the State Council Executive Secretary. I have served in this role for 17 years and I look forward to continuing my service to our Order. Respectfully submitted, Ray Guggenberger
DISTRICT MASTER Worthy State Deputy, State Officers, and Brother Knights. It has been my privilege to serve as District Master for the State of Nebraska this past year. On April 22nd, 2016, we held the annual meeting for the Knights of Columbus 4th Degree. At this meeting Leland Weber was introduced as the State Marshall. A review was done on the Honor Guard/Color Guard regalia dress code. The hosting Assemblies commander is the commander in charge of any CG/HG within the Assembly. At events in which several assemblies will be represented the District Master with either appoint a commander in charge or have the State assigned State Marshall present. Per Supreme requirements, we will continue to have stand-alone 4th Degree exemplifications in the future. Degrees were held in North Platte, Norfolk, Ralston, Alliance and Hebron. As a result of these Degrees we have currently added 78 new 4th Degree members. There are Exemplifications set for May 7 in Lincoln at Saint Patrick’s and in Omaha on June 25 at Saint Roberts.
Fraternally, Jim Haiar, District Master of Nebraska
Deputy Hergott called on Treasurer Borytsky for the report of the Mileage and Per Diem Committee.
MILEAGE AND PER DIEM COMMITTEE Greetings to you Worthy State Deputy Tony Hergott, Worthy State Chaplain Fr. Rooney, Worthy State Associate Chaplain Fr. Borowiak, Worthy Supreme Director Tom Smith, Worthy Supreme Director Mike Conrad, Worthy State Officers, District Deputies, State Directors and Chairmen, Delegates and Brother Knights attending this the 112th State Convention held at the Younes Conference Center in Kearney NE, 28-30 April 2017. The Annual State Meeting of the Mileage & Per Diem Committee met on Saturday, 29 April 2017. The meeting convened at 8:00 a.m. with assigned councils represented by either their Grand Knight or their council delegate. I opened the meeting with a prayer then led the 'National Anthem.” The meeting agenda started with the mileage rate of $0.45 per mile one way and per diem rate of $15.00 a day being discussed. No action was recommended by the committee. They remain the same. There was no further discussion. The meeting adjourned following a closing prayer at 8:25 a.m.
Respectively submitted, Mark Borytsky, State Treasurer
Treasurer Borytsky moved for the adoption of the committee report. This was seconded by Council 7734 and the motion passed. Deputy Hergott announced the winner of the Best of the Best Intra-Council Competition. “Council 10795, St. Vincent DePaul from Omaha, is the Best of the Best. Will the Grand Knight or a representative come forward to receive the traveling award.” Grand Knight Mick Morrell accepted the award. Deputy Hergott reminded Grand Knight Morrell to return the belt to next year’s convention. Deputy Hergott called on Supreme Director Thomas Smith for his remarks. Director Smith greeted the assembly and also brought greetings from our Supreme Knight Carl Anderson. He continued and stated that Deputy Hergott’s report on the State of Nebraska was excellent. He was pleased with the intra council competition. “Competition is healthy for our Brother Knight and the various jurisdictions and our Order.” Director Smith commended Supreme Director Michael Conrad for his hard work and dedication to our Order and Nebraska. He continued that he met former New Council Development Chairman Michael Maguire from Columbus years ago. Maguire taught/demonstrated to him how to go out and make cold calls with pastors and visit with them about establishing a council in their parish. He asked that we pray for Michael as his health is not good. Director Smith stated that Nebraska is one of the few jurisdictions that have a continuous record of growth, with over 36 years of sustained growth. The Order and Nebraska had the best three months ever. In Nebraska there are 390,000 Catholic men with only 20% belonging to our Order. “Ask them to join us.” He stated that Nebraska averages $80 per member in charity and that we can do more with more members. He continued that the home office is pleased to see how the older members of local council are being replaced by new and younger Knights. Director Smith stated the health of the Order is generally very good. The three Nebraska insurance agencies are among the very best in the Order. Director Smith continued that one of Fr McGivney’s goals in establishing our Order was to provide insurance for our families. “We average 80 deaths per day in our Order and only 30 have insurance.” He thanked all for listening and stated he would have more to say at tonight’s banquet. Deputy Hergott thanks Director Smith for his remarks. He then called on Supreme Director Mike Conrad for his remarks. Director Conrad acknowledged the assembly and thanked all for the warm welcome. Director Conrad thanked Director Smith for his kind words. Director Conrad offered his personal congratulations to St. Vincent DePaul Council 10795 for winning the best of the best competition. Deputy Hergott called on Program Director Robert Wolf for his report. Director Wolf requested that his report and that of all activity Directors and Chairmen be entered into the Proceedings without being read. Council 8986 so moved, and was seconded by Council 2411. The motion passed.
Program Director Worthy State Deputy Anthony Hergott, Worthy State Chaplin Father John Rooney, Worthy Supreme Guests Thomas Smith and Michael Conrad, Worthy State Officers, Worthy District Deputies, Directors, Chairman, and Brother Knights attending the 112th annual State Convention in Kearney, Nebraska April 28 – 30, 2017, greetings. It has been my honor and pleasure to serve as your State Program Director over the past two years. I want to thank our State Deputy Tony Hergott for asking me to serve in this position on his State Team. To all of my Directors and Chairman, thank you for the outstanding job that you have done for us and for the councils around the State. You have gone above and beyond what was asked of you. It has been my honor and privilege to serve with you. I also want to thank all of the State Officers who have helped me to do the best job that I can do for all of our Brother Knights around the State. Without your guidance, encouragement, and help these two years would have been a lot tougher. To our worthy Supreme MPC, Brother Joe Ramirez, you have been a source of knowledge and support to me that is greatly appreciated. A special thank you to our Immediate Past State Deputy Rich Lowery, PSD and Supreme Board Member Mike Conrad, PSD and our Executive Secretary Ray Guggenberger. You have been and always will be my friends, mentors, and Brother Knights. This was our second year with both the ICC and Building the Domestic Church programs. I believe that they both were a huge success. We had more new councils win their first ICC award this year than last year and we doubled the total number of awards to be given out. I believe that the ICC program is one reason that councils really pushed their membership numbers in February and March. We had a lot of success in rolling out the Building the Domestic Church initiative. Both the Program and Membership teams worked very hard to make sure that the councils both understood and followed the guidelines of the program. In July, we met for our annual Grand Knight / Financial Secretaries meeting. A large number of councils and District Deputies attended. The Program and Membership teams did a wonderful job in helping to educate the councils on the Building the Domestic Church program changes. In December, we met for our Mid-Winter meeting. Again, State Membership Director Kevin Ostdiek and his membership team did a wonderful job going over all aspects of recruiting and retention. They also explained the upcoming membership incentives for the rest of the fraternal year. In March, the State Officers and Directors met at St. Gregory the Great Seminary in Seward to pick our award winners for State Convention. A special thanks to Fr. Eickhoff for allowing us to meet at this beautiful and spiritual setting. Again, Father Rooney set the tone for the meeting with a wonderful sermon during Mass, and Church Director Mark Dwyer picked beautiful songs that helped to uplift the soul. This brings us up to our 112th Annual Nebraska Knights of Columbus State Convention in Kearney. Knights from around the State will join together to celebrate our accomplishments from the past year and to share the bond of fellowship. This year we are honored to have two representatives from our Supreme Board of Directors. Brother Thomas Smith from Connecticut and our own Brother Mike Conrad from Fort Calhoun will be attending our convention with us. On Friday night we will meet to award the Councils and individual Knights for all the programs that they have worked so hard on throughout the year. On Saturday we will honor the State Family of the Year, reinforcing that the Knights are truly a family first organization. I am very proud and humbled to be able to work with such a great group of Brother Knights and their families. Again, I need to thank State Deputy Tony Hergott for his trust in me and his friendship in selecting me to be his Program Director. I cannot think of anyone that I would rather serve with then
Tony. He truly lives his State motto, “One Body in Christ”, and pushes me to do the same. As my dad would say “He’s someone to ride the river with”. Respectfully submitted, Robert Wolf
Council Director Worthy State Deputy Tony Hergott, State Officers, State Directors, Delegates and Brother Knights, I want to thank you for your support this first year as State Council Director. It has been an honor to be able to pick the Knight of the Year and the Council Major Activity of the Year Award. Not knowing what to expect, other than a tough choice, I had received 28 applications for Knight of the Year. And, yes, it was not easy to pick. It made me feel good to know that Nebraska has great Brother Knights. Picking the Council Major Activity Award was not as difficult as Knight of the Year, but the amount of submissions had surpassed my expectations. There were 26 councils submitting over 100 activities to be considered. It was enjoyable to read about all the activities our state's councils are doing. I attended the awards selection meeting in Seward and the State Convention in Kearny. I was not able to make it to the Grand Knights Seminar do to a conflict in my schedules. I also spent a few evening’s on the phone answering questions from Brother Knights. After State Convention, the two Holy Family Icons were distributed so that they could travel the state so that all councils could host a prayer program if they wished to do so.
Respectfully submitted, Nick Ladenburger
Church Director Worthy State Deputy Tony Hergott, State Officers, Delegates and Brother Knights attending the 112th Annual State Convention in Kearney, Nebraska, on April 28, 29, and 30, 2017. It has been a wonderful year as State Church Director. First of all, I would like to thank everyone who helped with the Masses during the past year’s directors meetings, the Summer Leadership Seminar, Mid-Winter Meeting, and the State Convention. It has been an honor and a privilege to help all our great priests and bishops as they shared their ministry and message with the KC family. I believe the Keep Christ in Christmas program was successful this year. We sold 41 cases of cards and approximately $1,600 for individual boxes of cards and related items (banners, signs, magnets, etc.). I would like to thank all the councils who participated in the KCIC evangelization program. I would also like to thank all the councils who had their schools participate in the Keep Christ in Christmas Poster Program. The posters were beautiful and it is truly a joy to work with our wonderful children. In closing, I’d also like to thank a few people by name: first, Father Rooney for his spiritual guidance and leadership for our liturgies; to Harry Tilley, who has been a mentor and has helped with the Masses in every capacity; and finally, to Julie, my partner, from Christmas card sales to Mass programs - there is no one I would rather sing with.
Mark Dwyer State Church Director
Family Directors Worthy State Deputy Anthony Hergott, Worthy State Chaplain Rev. John Rooney, Worthy Supreme Guests and Representatives, Worthy State Officers, Worthy District Deputies, fellow State Directors and Chairmen, Delegates and Brother Knights attending the 112th Annual State Convention in Kearney, Nebraska on April 28, 29 and 30, 2017: Our 2nd year as State Family Directors has been an enjoyable, spiritual, humbling, and a learning experience. We are honored to serve as directors. During the 2016-2017 year there were 51 Family of the Month reports submitted. Thirteen Family of the Month winners from Nebraska were selected as Supreme Council Awardees. We received 25 letters of nomination for the State Family of the Year Award. After reading each letter and accompanying materials, we narrowed the field to five finalists. At the state awards meeting on March 11, 2017, in Seward, Nebraska, the first place and two honorable mentions winners were chosen. Jeff and Cathy Gokie were chosen as first place from council 12086. Fred and Marie Abboud from council 9518 and a family from council 10047 (who wished to remain anonymous) were chosen as the honorable mention families. Also, we had 40 activities reported for Family Activity Awards and the Supreme Award was chosen to give to 6192 for a memorial gift to every deceased Knight and the State Award was given to 11879 for two events that promote comradery in the council involving families. We wish to thank State Deputy Tony Hergott and State Program Director Robert Wolf for the honor and opportunity to serve the State Knights of Columbus.
Respectfully submitted, Jeff and Ginger Wardyn
Youth Director Worthy State Deputy Anthony Hergott, Worthy State Chaplain Rev. John Rooney, Worthy Supreme Guests and Representatives, Worthy State Officers, Worthy District Deputies, fellow State Directors and Chairmen, Delegates and Brother Knights attending the 112th Annual State Convention in Kearney, Nebraska on April 28, 29 and 30, 2017. It has been my honor and pleasure to serve as the State Youth Director for the 2016-2017 program year. My responsibilities as State Youth Director include overseeing the Knights of Columbus Substance Abuse and Awareness Poster Contest and the Knights of Columbus Keep Christ In Christmas Poster Contest, overseeing the Knights of Columbus Soccer Challenge, overseeing the Knights of Columbus Free Throw Championship, determining the State and Supreme Award recipients for Youth Activities, and helping the State Program Director and State Deputy in any way needed. During the Summer Leadership Seminar, we discussed the timing, running, and function of each of these great youth activities. Emphasis was placed on the Knights of Columbus Soccer Challenge, encouraging all councils to participate in this great activity to increase participation from across the state both at the Council and District Levels. We also discussed the Knights of Columbus Free Throw Championship to make sure that rules were being enforced the same across all levels of the competition.
Knights of Columbus Soccer Challenge This past year we increased the number of Districts in Nebraska participating in the Knights of Columbus Soccer Challenge, as well as a slight increase in the total number of youth participating. This helped in an Orderwide increase in participation in the Knights of Columbus Soccer Challenge. This past November, about 30 participants showed up at Grand Island Central Catholic Middle/High School to participate in the State Level of the Knights of Columbus Soccer Challenge. Below is a list of the State Champions for Nebraska: Boys Age Name City 9 Christian Almond Hastings 10 Alex Johnson Minden 11 Alan Fick Kearney 12 Dalton Sparks Papillion 13 Joseph McFarland Columbus 14 Nicholas Kouba Bellevue Girls Age Name City 9 Claire Dunham Lincoln 10 Cooper Zabka Columbus 11 Lacie Hartman David City 12 Hannah Warnke Lincoln 13 Megan Sloup Omaha 14 Leota Fick Kearney
Knights of Columbus Free Throw Championship Nearly all of the Districts in Nebraska participated in the Knights of Columbus Free Throw Championship this past year. We had an increase in participation across the state, bringing our total participation to nearly 1,000 youth. In early April, approximately 90 participants attended the State Level of the Knights of Columbus Free Throw Championship at Grand Island Central Catholic Middle/High School. A special thanks to Immediate Past State Deputy Richard Lowery for running the event in my absence. Below is a list of State Champions for Nebraska: Boys Age Name City 9 Jack Vyhnalek Seward 10 Luke Kocian Lincoln 11 Greyson Kay Blair 12 Triston Hite Grant 13 Andrew Richardson Tecumseh 14 Ryan Bartek Lincoln Girls Age Name City 9 Aspyn Hanner Sterling 10 Delaney Reeg Genoa 11 Alissa Brabec O’Neill 12 Ella Wingert Sterling 13 Jade Erickson Central City 14 Jadyn Eby O’Neill
Knights of Columbus Substance Abuse and Awareness Poster Contest Participation in the Knights of Columbus Substance Abuse and Awareness Poster Contest increased again this year. During the 2013-2014 program year we added in a District Level for judging in order to reduce the number of entries I had to look through prior to judging them at the State Level. The winners of the Knights of Columbus Substance Abuse and Awareness Poster Contest can be found with the list of award recipients at the State Convention. Knights of Columbus Keep Christ In Christmas Poster Contest This was the third year that we handed out a State Award for the Knights of Columbus Keep Christ n Christmas Poster Contest. We once again increased the number of entries from across the state. I hope that over the next few years, we will be able to increase participation in this program and make it another successful Youth Activity for Nebraska. The names of the winners of the Knights of Columbus Keep Christ In Christmas Poster Contest can be found with the list of the award recipients at the State Convention. Awards Submissions We had 50 Major Activity Reports submitted for Youth Activities this last year. It made the task of selecting the State and Supreme Youth Activity Award winners a challenging task, but I enjoyed seeing all of the great activities that are benefitting our youth across the State of Nebraska. Our recipients of both the State and the Supreme Youth Activity Awards were very deserving. All of the councils across the state did an amazing job supporting and engaging the youth across the state.
Thank You I would like to thank State Deputy Anthony Hergott and State Program Director Bob Wolf for their confidence in me to help lead these great activities in our state. I would also like to thank all of the State Officers, District Deputies, and my fellow State Directors and Chairmen for their support with these programs. Your help has been greatly appreciated at all levels of these programs, especially in helping conduct the State Level competitions. It has been a privilege to serve the Nebraska State Family and the numerous Knights of Columbus Councils across our state as Youth Director this last year. I wish all the best to the officers, directors, and chairmen for the upcoming year, especially my predecessor as State Youth Director. As always, if there is any way that I can assist you or your council, please contact me and I will do all that I can to help. Vivat Jesus!
Respectfully Submitted, Mitchell W. Lowery
Community Worthy State Deputy Tony Hergott, State Officers, Supreme Guest, Program Directors, District Deputies, Delegates, and Brother Knights of the 112th annual State Convention of the Knights of Columbus. It has been an honor to serve as your Community Director for the past year. My wife Kathy and I appreciate the help and support we have received. I had several applications submitted for the Leonard Feehan Award and many more Major Community Activity applications. It was difficult to choose from so many great projects and applications. I picked my top choices and presented them to Program Director Bob Wolf and the other Directors/Chairman for discussion and consideration at the annual award selection meeting at St. Gregory the Great Seminary in Seward on Saturday, March 11th. At that meeting we selected our state’s top activities from those submitted. The Silver Rose was received by our jurisdiction July 15th, 2016 from Colorado by myself and displayed at the Grand Knights seminar in Columbus. The Silver Rose then traveled around our state and made 29 stops at different councils throughout the state. The Silver Rose was then handed off to St. Francis in Kansas on August 14th, 2016. Below is the route with attendee:
2016 Day Location / Council Contact Attendees 15-Jul Fri pickup from Colorado Dan Engel State Community Director 16-Jul Sat GK Seminar Columbus, Dan Engel State Community 155 NE Director 17-Jul Sun Columbus 12086 Jeff Gokie GK 6 18-Jul Mon Schuyler 2716 Tom Bayer FS Harley Loseke GK 30 19-Jul Tue David City 1717 Dan Engel State Community 23 Director 20-Jul Wed Seward 8469 Mark Perry GK 29 21-Jul Thur Crete 7704 Larry Koerner FS 10 22-Jul Fri Hebron 1904 Alan Kenning GK (Knights on Bikes) 23-Jul Sat Fairbury 4434 Stephen Graff FS 28 24-Jul Sun Lincoln 13576 Steven Becker GK 30 25-Jul Mon Lincoln 9704 Ron Grose GK 16 26-Jul Tue Lincoln 11280 Mark Rezac GK 35 27-Jul Wed Davey 15647 Dale Coleman recorder 44 28-Jul Thur Bellevue 11879 John Steinauer GK 37 29-Jul Fri Bellevue 6192 Ray Romero GK 35 30-Jul Sat Omaha 10815 Francis Ramirez GK 205 31-Jul Sun Omaha 7740 Win Lander GK 40 1-Aug Mon Omaha 10184 Mike McDonnell GK 20 2-Aug Tue Fort Calhoun 10305 Jim Hubschman GK 40 3-Aug Wed Howells 5439 Bernard Hegemann GK 30 4-Aug Thur Pierce 11054 William Fehringer DD 17 45 5-Aug Fri Elgin 2411 Mark Dwyer DD 18 35 6-Aug Sat Albion 1739 Tom Brugman GK 10 7-Aug Sun Lindsay 7699 Roy M. Zach GK 40 8-Aug Mon St Paul 1918 Marshall Paczosa GK 25 9-Aug Tue Grand Island 9562 Vincent Mendez GK / Mike Jarosz 35 FS 10-Aug Wed Kearney 10923 & 1728 Mitch O'Neill, FS 22 11-Aug Thur Lexington 2040 Harold Brown FS 80 12-Aug Fri (Broken Bow) COZAD Cory Grint GK / Jeremy Fiorelli 7 13-Aug Sat North Platte 12530 Greg Vandenberg GK 16 14-Aug Sun North Platte / 1211 & Mike Stromitis FS 68 10506 Deliver to St. Francis, Kansas sometime on 8-14-2016 9
Respectfully Submitted Dan J Engel
Culture of Life Worthy State Deputy Anthony Hergott, State Officers, Directors, District Deputies and Brother Knights of the 112th State Convention held in Kearney, Nebraska, April 28 thru April 30, 2017: It is an honor and a privilege to serve with you the State of Nebraska Knights of Columbus as your Culture of Life Directors. As we come to the end of our first term as Culture of Life Directors, we are overwhelmed by the generosity of the councils in the State of Nebraska. The One Rose One Life Campaign and the Buck-A-Month donations allow the Knights of Columbus to continue support of the Nebraska Catholic Conference and the Bishops Pastoral Plan for Pro Life Activities. A few of the other organizations we have supported are: Assure Women’s Center, Bethlehem House, Essential Pregnancy Center, and Pregnancy Resource Center of Beatrice. These organizations support women and children in crisis. We also supported the annual March for Life in Washington, DC by donating funds totaling $19,000 across the 3 dioceses in Nebraska. Culture of life funds also supported Catholic Charities, Tri County Right to Life, Shoot for Life, Lincoln Area Right to Life, Respect Life Apostolate, Maverick Students for Life, Heart of a Child Ministries, Justice for All, UNL Newman Center, Norte Dame Sisters - to bring awareness to human trafficking - and the Thomas More Society. To date, the Culture of Life Foundation, with the help of the Supreme Ultrasound Initiative, has assisted in placing seven ultrasounds throughout the state. Six of these ultrasounds were placed in pregnancy resource centers and one in a mobile unit for Nebraskans United for Life that can travel to wherever patients are. In 2017 we will continue to work with pregnancy resource centers throughout Nebraska to get additional ultrasounds placed. We are currently in the process of working with a startup Pregnancy Care Center in North Central Nebraska in hopes of placing an ultrasound in their new location. Statistics show that ultrasounds save lives, so it is our hope to place as many as we can throughout the state. None of this would be possible without the dedication and hard work of the local councils and their members.
Respectfully Submitted Brian & Mary Jo Hamik
Health Services Worthy State Deputy Anthony Hergott, State Officers, State Directors, Delegates, and Brother Knights attending the 112th Annual State Convention in Kearney, Nebraska, April 28 through 30, 2017: We are honored to serve Nebraska Knights of Columbus as Health Service Directors and as Directors of the Nebraska Knights of Columbus Intellectual Disabilities Foundation. Again in 2016 - 2017, 75% of the local Knights of Columbus Councils participated in the fundraising drive for people with intellectual disabilities. Significant donations were made by the State Council to the Nebraska Special Olympics, $23,800; Villa Marie School, $20,000; Mosaic, $15,000; ARC, $15,000; and Madonna School, $25,000. Just over $58,000 was disbursed through council requests to aid people with intellectual disabilities at the local level. Priorities for the future include continuing to emphasize the name of the fundraising drive as the Knights of Columbus Campaign for People with Intellectual Disabilities Drive rather than the Tootsie Roll® Drive, as well as continuing to follow legal guidelines and directives put forth by the Supreme Council.
Respectfully Submitted, Don and Terri Hypse Vocations Director Worthy State Deputy, Officers, Delegates and Brother Knights. It has been my privilege to serve as the Vocations Director for the past year. I have had an opportunity to observe firsthand the support and generosity of many of our councils in the state, and the positive impact is has on our priests, seminarians and religious. To my Brother Knights, thank you for your support, communication and generosity. Several Councils support more than one seminarian financially. Many Council’s actively reach out to their seminarians during the year in a spirit of brotherhood which is greatly appreciated by these young men. Our goal has not yet been met, as not ALL of our councils are active in this important duty On April 8, 2017 I attended a Vocations meeting in Fremont led by Fr. Roza and sponsored by the Archdiocese of Omaha. This was a valuable opportunity to meet with those involved in vocations at the parish level. There is a great spirit of support and prayer in many of the parishes, and from the Serra Clubs. This meeting also provided time for sharing of activities, best practices and materials available. It is very apparent that active involvement by local councils in parish vocations activities is greatly needed. In some parishes, we will be able to support and supplement existing activities. However, many parishes do not have an active vocations group, so there is a significant need for our councils to step forward and take the lead. This coming year, we must continue pushing forward with our active support of vocations and encouragement of those young men and women discerning a call to the priesthood or religious life so that we have an adequate number of new people leading our Church.
Respectfully submitted, Tim Smith Squires Worthy State Deputy Anthony Hergott, State Officers, State Directors, Delegates, and Brother Knights attending the 112th Annual State Convention in Kearney, Nebraska, April 28 through 30, 2017, the following is my report: Nebraska Active Circle 253 Wahoo Bishop Neumann Don Tvrdy 2977 McCook Joe Cipriano Robert Burns 4892 Bellevue St. Matthews Phillip Earsly 5253 Omaha Fr. Swoleks Army Greg O’Grady 5517 Omaha Pope John Paul II David Marx 5529 Lincoln Blessed Pope John Paul II Craig Cehnart 5573 Omaha St. Wenceslaus Stan Lierz 5832 Columbus ST. Pier Giorgio Frassati Kelly Schrant
2017 State Squires Events Investitures throughout the year - Paint Ball Tournament August-September Fall Squire Mass – Held at St. Gerald this year September-October Offutt Air Force Base Visit – November-December - Winter Swim Party – January Columbian Squires Circles are active in Nebraska, and contributing to the Knight of Columbus. They practice charity, fraternity, unity, and patriotism, throughout the fraternal year. Circle 5832 raised $11,000 in a Baby Bottle Drive! Others contribute to their church communities, reaching out to their neighbor with works of charity and service.
Awards Circle of the Year - 4892 St. Matthews Counselor of the Year - Paulino Sotomayor-Colon Squires of Year - 253 Nolan Benes Spiritual - 5529 Blessed Pope John Paul II Circle - 5517 Pope John Paul II Membership - 253 Bishop Neumann Service & Charity - 4892 St. Matthews Respectfully submitted, David Marx Squires CoChairman
Convention Coordinator Co-Chairmen Worthy State Deputy Tony Hergott, State Officers, fellow Chairmen, Delegates to the State Convention, and Brother Knights: We respectfully submit our report as the Convention Coordinator Co-Chairs for the fraternal year 2016-2017. We coordinate meal and/or hotel room reservations for the three major annual state meetings. We started the fraternal year off with the Grand Knights-Financial Secretaries-District Deputies Seminar at the Ramada/Rivers Inn Convention Center in Columbus on July 15, 16 & 17. Friday dinner was provided by local Councils 938, 9264 and 12086. On Saturday, a ladies' program was held at the St Benedict Retreat Center north of Schuyler. Mass and installation of State Officers and DD’s was held at St. Isidore Church and a dinner/dance was held at the convention center. Next was the Mid-Year Meeting held at the Divots Conference Center in Columbus on December 2, 3, & 4. Friday dinner was at St Mary’s Parish Center. Saturday ladies' program and evening dinner were held at the conference center. We ended the fraternal year with our 112th Annual State Convention at the Younes Convention Center in Kearney on April 28, 29, and 30. Reservations were taken for the Friday evening awards banquet, Saturday noon luncheon, Saturday evening banquet, Sunday morning ladies brunch, and babysitting. Mass was held at the convention center. A total of 1,335 meal reservations were taken for the convention. We wish to thank everyone for their cooperation when contacting us. After meeting hundreds of members from across our state, we can attest that Nebraska Knights are GREAT! We especially thank our wives, Elaine and Mary, for putting up with our odd hours, time away from home, and clogged mailboxes and email accounts.
Respectfully submitted James Jakub and Larry Miksch
Financial Secretary Worthy State Deputy Anthony Hergott, Worthy State Chaplain, Worthy State Officers, State Directors, District Deputies, and Delegates to the 112th Annual Nebraska Knights of Columbus Convention in Kearney, Nebraska. During the last Fraternal/Fiscal year, we responded to numerous questions from Financial Secretary's/Faithful Comptrollers located around the State. We provided a question and answer session during the state convention with information on various topics. The mid-year leadership seminar in July provided a full day of training on Saturday and one-on-one training on Sunday morning. We conducted one-on-one training and telephonic assistance with FS’s and FC’s in various councils/assemblies throughout Nebraska. Among the topics covered were: The filing of Form 990, with due date and general filing requirements; Answered general questions regarding a Council's audit; Reviewed the procedure to get a tax id number and use as a tax exempt entity; explain the differences in the procedures and requirements for Suspensions Vs. Withdrawals; Demonstrated the process on how to acquire access to the Supreme website (www.kofc.org) and then demonstrated procedures within the membership management section to process activities that previously required the submission of a written paper document; How to determine years of Service for Honorary and Honorary Life Status when re-entry is involved; Provided assistance to Executive Secretary concerning information required to be included in the Semi-annual Audit report; Provided Financial Secretary's guidance in computing the new fee schedule necessary for Honorary members to cover Supreme and State assessments; and other miscellaneous questions as they arose.
Respectfully submitted, Stephen Graff, Manny Gallardo, and Mitchell O'Neill Athletics Worthy State Deputy Anthony Hergott, State Officers, District Deputies, Fellow State Directors and Chairmen, Delegates and Brother Knights: I respectfully submit my report on our state’s Athletics Program for the past year. This year, we held two statewide tournaments, a Golf Tournament and a Bowling Tournament. The 2016 State Knights of Golf Columbus Golf Tournament was held September 10 and 11, 2016, at Indianhead Golf Course in Grand Island. Thirty-one golfers participated in the two-day event. Winning the event was Bob Murnan of Council 9918, shooting a 163 for the two days. Rounding out the Championship Flight were Don Loecker and Alan Goodenberger. First Flight winners were Phil Harr, Jim Olson, and Ron Moen. Second Flight winners were Rob Ostdiek, Bill Howard, and Craig Hendricks. Flag Prizes and Door Prizes were awarded to the participants. Special thanks to the State’s General Agents: Pfeifer, Swanson, and Pfeifer for their generosity in providing the prizes, along with Bob Murnan who provided door prizes for the oldest, youngest, and longest married participants. The golfing group challenged themselves to “bring a friend” next year to double the size of the tournament. The tournament is tentatively scheduled for the weekend of September 9 and 10, 2017, at Indian Head in Grand Island. I also tried to host a Vocations Fund Golf Tourney in Kearney on September 19, but was unsuccessful at pulling off, largely because of my late planning and inability to reach out to enough people to help me make it a success. Therefore, I did not receive adequate response to host the tournament. I truly believe something like this could be successful, but will take the commitment and efforts of more than just me. Westbrook Lanes in Columbus, Nebraska hosted the annual State Bowling Tournament. John Eckholt and his staff were very gracious hosts. Grand Knight Keith Albrcht, St. Isidore Council 12086, was also gracious in keeping me in the loop regarding planning logistics and whatever support he and the other councils of Columbus required of me. Over the weekends of February 18 and 19 and February 25, a total of 21 teams, 37 doubles, and 74 singles competed in the Bowling Tournament hosted by the Westbrook Lanes and the local Knights of Columbus - Columbus Council 938, St. Anthony Council 9264, and St. Isidore Council 12086. On the two Saturday nights, the three Columbus councils hosted a steak fry that was well attended and continued the fraternity of the weekends’ activities. Plans for next year’s bowling tournament to be held in West Point, Nebraska, on February 16-18 and February 23-24, 2018, are underway. I also have assisted the State Youth Director with the State Soccer Challenge and the Free Throw Championship. Thanks to State Deputy, Tony Hergott, all of the State Officers, the General Agents for Nebraska and all of the other Directors and Chairmen for their help and support through this past fraternal year.
Respectfully submitted, Robert A Ostdiek
State Public Relations Chairman Worthy State Deputy, Tony Hergott, Worthy State Chaplain, Worthy State Officers, State Directors, District Deputies, and Delegates to the 112th Annual Nebraska Knights Of Columbus Convention in Kearney, Nebraska. This past fraternal year, as your Public Relations Chairman, I attended all meetings called by our worthy State Deputy (submitted reports). These included the GK/FS seminar and now the annual State Convention. I worked with councils, encouraging them to turn in the necessary information for points, in conjunction with the Knights Courier Editor, the State Website Chairman, and the State Program Director. My goal remains to continue to encourage all councils to promote the activities of their specific group, to report these promotions to me for award points, and to increase the percent of council participation in turning in these points. Thanks to State Deputy, Tony Hergott, all of the State Officers, the General Agents for Nebraska and all of the other Directors and Chairmen for their help and support through this past fraternal year.
Respectfully submitted, Ron Goodrich State Website Chairman Worthy State Deputy Tony Hergott, Worthy State Chaplain, Worthy State Officers, State Directors, District Deputies, and Delegates to the 112th Annual Nebraska Knights of Columbus Convention in Kearney, Nebraska. This past fraternal year, as your State Website Chairman, I attended all meetings called by our worthy State Deputy. These included the GK/FS seminar and now the annual State Convention. Since taking over on the State Website, I have successfully answered all Web-related questions and solved problems; made sure Supreme has all the Website addresses of sites hosted by our State site; stayed current on information posted on the State site. Using the online database form for members to request notification of digital editions of Knights Courier, I strip these names from the print/mail lists each quarter. From April 25, 2016 to April 25, 2017 we have had 47,609 page views during 17,756 sessions from 8,055 users with an average session duration of 3 minutes. Visitors reach the State Site directly (either as a home page or typing the URL in their browser) 43.7% of the time, 45.5% through a search engine, 10% by referral from another site, and .9% from social media links. Thanks to State Deputy, Tony Hergott, all of the State Officers, the General Agents for Nebraska and all of the other Directors and Chairmen for their help and support through this past fraternal year. Respectfully submitted, Aaron Goodrich
Nebraska Knights Courier Editor Worthy State Deputy, Tony Hergott, Worthy State Chaplain, Worthy State Officers, State Directors, District Deputies, and Delegates to the 112th Annual Nebraska Knights Of Columbus Convention in Kearney, Nebraska: This past fraternal year, I have again had the honor of publishing four issues of the Knights Courier. With over 15 years of experience producing this piece, I feel comfortable with the responsibility entrusted to me, and have continued to grow in the knowledge of the workings of the Order and of the various councils that comprise the Nebraska State Council. My goal remains to promote, inform and share the efforts of the Nebraska Council of the Knights of Columbus as we continue the work of the Order’s principles of Charity, Unity, Fraternity and Patriotism. Thanks to State Deputy, Tony Hergott, all of the State Officers, the General Agents for Nebraska and all of the other Directors and Chairmen for their help and support through this past fraternal year.
Respectfully submitted, Duffi Goodrich Deputy Hergott called on Membership Director Kevin Ostdiek for the report of the Membership Team. Director Ostdiek requested his report be entered into the proceedings without being read. Council 268 so moved, seconded by Council 2378. The motion passed. State Membership Activities
Membership Team Kevin M Ostdiek Director Michael Esselstein Regional Director Al Pfeiffer Regional Director Steven Dethlefs Regional Director Ignacio Cervantes Regional Director Rod Hofschulte, PSD Regional Director Stephen Lowery Regional Director
Worthy State Chaplain, State Deputy Hergott, State Officers, District Deputies, Directors and Chairmen and members of the Knights of Columbus, greetings. The state membership team attended all required meetings scheduled by State Deputy Hergott and participated in several ongoing conference calls to organize and administer the state’s membership programs. As of April 13th, 2017, Nebraska is at 85.25% of our Supreme quota with 763 new members, 132 short of our goal of 895. We have met several monthly membership incentive goals set by Supreme, especially over the last two months, and this has helped to earn money which we have used to create further incentives for our members and councils that recruit new members. Additionally, 18 councils have met or exceeded their individual membership goals for the year while another 18 councils are at 75% or above. The membership team continues to work with the State Deputy and Officers to call councils and District Deputies, offering encouragement and assistance that they may need in obtaining their individual goals. Nebraska has met their new council membership quota of one with the creation of Council 16680 St. John Paul II – UNO, making this council the third college council within the state. The actions of District Deputy 4 Stephen Little, were essential to the successful creation of this council, as was the help of Regional Membership Director Stephen Lowery and State Deputy Hergott. The State Membership Team assures the new council of their continued help and assistance, and wish them success in the future. We are monitoring the possibilities of new councils in Crawford and Mead. District Deputy 32 JJ Smith, has worked to reactivate Council 7988, in Gordon. He has successfully recruited enough new Knights to establish the council, but still needs to organize the council and determine officers before this work will be completed. We also worked to complete the merger of another suspended council by merging Council 7959 in Burwell with Council 2292 in Ord. This has reduced our number of suspended councils to three, which will meet our goal from Supreme. Working with our District Deputies has been very helpful as the Membership Team has made routine calls to check on progress of their councils and districts towards their membership goals. We would especially like to thank Stephen Little, Leland Buescher, Donald Cech, Glen Kampschneider, and Joe Keaschall, who have already met their membership goals and to Michael Leick, Mark Kistler, Kenneth Prokop, Doyle Stephens and Chris Kreikemeier, who have reached at least 75% of their goal as of April 1. The membership team has made a particular emphasis on round table reporting this year. Regional Membership Director Mike Esselstein has taken direct control of this matter, and worked diligently to achieve the Supreme goal of 65 Round Tables reported. As of April 1, 74 Round Tables were reported to Supreme, surpassing our goal. Membership remains an issue at colleges within the State of Nebraska, especially in the area of post-graduation retention. Regional Director Stephen Lowery’s efforts with colleges and young adults are a welcome addition to the Membership Team. He and everyone on the team will continue to work with all post-secondary educational institutions to resolve the issue of losing track of graduating students and thus causing a large retention issue. Stephen’s help in establishing a new council at the Newman Center on the University of Nebraska – Omaha campus was essential to the effort. Membership retention, in general, remains strong throughout Nebraska. We are also currently at 100.16% of our Net Goal of 630 and 109.21% of our Net/Net goal of 315. The entire team wishes to thank all councils for their efforts in maintaining active members. Regional Directors Rod Hofschulte and Al Pfeiffer have worked to lead these efforts for the Membership Team. Finally, I personally wish to thank the membership team for the dedication and efforts they have given the Knights of Columbus in the State of Nebraska. It is due to their efforts that another year of continued growth has been accomplished. Thank you for all of your efforts this past year, and the prior year.
Fraternally, Kevin M Ostdiek
Ceremonials Co-Chairmen To our Worthy State Deputy Tony Hergott, State Chaplain, State Officers, District Deputies, Program Chairman, Insurance Agents and Delegates to the 113th Annual Convention of the State Council of the State Council of the Knights of Columbus assembled in Kearney, Nebraska: We wish to thank our Worthy State Deputy Tony Hergott and all the State Officers for the great support given us this past year. More councils are performing a First Degree and conducting a First Degree by simply playing a DVD provided by Supreme. We have eight Second Degree Teams. The teams are from Bellevue, Kearney, West Omaha, Omaha, Lincoln, Norfolk, Sidney and Scottsbluff. Seven Third Degree Teams are presently operating in our jurisdiction. We thank the current Third Degree Captains for their dedication to Fraternalism. The CO’s are Pat Dougherty, Omaha, Bob Ostdiek, Gretna, Dan Gilbert, Scottsbluff, Gailen Kotrous, Kearney, Kevin Ostdiek, Lincoln, Mark Dwyer, Elgin and Rod Hofschulte, Omaha. We thank all the captains and their Team Members for giving up their Sundays in order to spread fraternalism through the Third Degree Ceremony. 49 Major Degrees were held in our jurisdiction this past fraternal year. This is a record number of Degrees held in our Jurisdiction. 53 Degrees were scheduled. Four Degrees were canceled. 432 candidates received the higher degrees. This is a decrease in the number of candidates making their Third Degree last year. We wish to acknowledge the efforts of the District Deputies, Financial Secretaries, and Grand Knights for all their help in making the Degrees a reality in their councils. Thank you all. We wish we could see more members attending our Degrees. This truly would show our candidates how much we support them. This year, we recognize Kevin Ostdiek for his outstanding service to Ceremonials in our State Jurisdiction. Kevin received the George Nussrallah Award at this year’s Convention. We wish to thank the dedicated members of our Degree Teams. They give so much of their time and effort to our Degree work. Again, it is a pleasure to serve our Worthy State Tony Hergott. We thank him for giving us the opportunity. May God bless Tony, our work and all of you.
Respectfully submitted, Larry J. Reed, PSD & David Wiedel Deputy Hergott moved to have the reports of the District Deputies entered into the Proceedings without bring read. Council 10108 seconded and the motion passed.
District 1 No report received. Mark Keller
District 2 Worthy State Deputy Tony Hergott, State Officers, District Deputies, Grand Knights and delegates to the Nebraska Council State Convention: I respectfully submit my report for the 2016-2017 fraternal year as District Deputy of Nebraska District 2. The Councils in District 2 are: Council 10108 St. Robert Bellarmine, Council 10965 St. Leo the Great, Council 5045 Christ the King, and my home Council 15101 Saint Pius the Tenth. All are in Omaha, NE. All are in good standing. At the beginning of the fraternal year, there were 726 members in these councils. At this writing Supreme shows 740, with 4 more to be added from the Council 15101 First Degree. The councils added 33 members with a district quota of 35. Deaths reduced the change in membership to 18. We have prayed for and remember those who died during this year. I attended the Grand Knights Seminar in July 2016. There were representatives from each of the councils in District 2. I held a district meeting which was attending by the Grand Knight from each council. Each of the councils held a dignified ceremony for installation of newly elected officers. I attended each and was pleased to see the presence of the Worthy Chaplain at each of the installations. It is my hope the officers installed and instructed by me will merit the respect of their council members. I also attended the Mid-Winter Meeting of the State Council and learned more about my duties as District Deputy. The meeting proved fruitful in renewing my desire to help the councils in this district grow. Following this meeting I held a district meeting and included invitations to the pastors and associates in each parish. There were priests and council officers from each council attending. My presentation was directed toward the “Building the Domestic Church” program, which was well received by the priests. I attended many of the meetings and some of the events of the councils. I communicated regularly with the councils and responded to questions as they came up. I attended and assisted with Church Membership Drives for Council 5045 and 15101 The most significant events for me in this year were: 1. Attending the Supreme Convention in Toronto and sharing the experience with the councils. 2. The opportunity to present awards to the councils. 3. Attending degree exemplifications presented by each of the councils. Each of the councils submitted required reports and their activities and support of the order is exemplary. Each council has a number of activities and it seems all are respected and act with dignity in their parish. Support of seminarians is significant as is the outreach to youth and those in need in their communities. Each conducts activities in support of Life through programs like One Rose One Life. I coordinated the District 2 Free Throw Contest and Region 7 Free Throw Contest, which were hosted by my home Council 15101. This event is a significant opportunity for recruiting and several attendees filled out form 100s to take to their home council. The duties of District Deputy 2 were significant with a change in one of the councils. My experience from the past hear helped me manage my duties and made the experience more enjoyable than the prior year. I am humbled to be witness to the efforts of so many Knights in the councils of this district. The values of Charity, Unity and Fraternity are exemplified by the significant role of the Knights of Columbus Councils 5045, 10108, 10965, and 15101 in the life of the parishes they support: Christ the King, St. Robert Bellarmine, St. Leo the and St. Pius X. Recognition is due for efforts of Council 5045 in serving as host for a meeting of the Omaha Chapter this year. This report would be incomplete without recognizing the efforts of the Grand Knights of each council: Rob Anderson, Tim Mohatt, Joe From, and Tracy Potter exemplified the role to which they were elected. The efforts of the Financial Secretaries of each council are also deserving of recognition. I am honored to be of service to these Worthy Councils and the Knights they represent as District Deputy.
Respectfully submitted, Deacon Mike Leick
District 4 Worthy State Deputy Tony Hergott, Chaplains, State Officers, fellow District Deputies, Grand Knights and delegates to the 112th State Convention held in Kearney, Nebraska. I respectfully submit my report for District 4 consisting of: Council 7740 St. John Vianney Omaha, Council 10047 Fr. John V. Wallace Gretna, Council 10160 St. Stephen the Martyr Omaha, and Council 14470 Immaculate Conception Church, Omaha. By September of 2017, all council officers were installed and instructed about their duties and obligations as K of C officers. Councils have submitted their reports in a timely manner and maintained their councils finances such that they are in good standing with the State and Supreme councils. Some of the activities they have participated in include One Rose-One Life, Keep Christ in Christmas, RSVP Program, Tootsie Roll® Drive, Fish Fries and the Free Throw Contest. As the DD for District 4, I’m privileged to support four of the finest councils in the Nebraska Jurisdiction. Following is a brief summary of council activities and individual council summaries from the past year: Council 7740: This council is led by a vibrant and creative Grand Knight who believes in trying new things and improving those things within the council that are already successful. General meetings have 40 to 50 Brother knights in attendance. The meetings are orderly, respectful and efficiently conducted. All major activities have a sponsor and most also have a co-sponsor. Activity chairmen report progress and results for their activities quickly and thoroughly. Officer meetings are run collaboratively with all officers participating and getting a say in the important decisions of the council. Activities for this council included, but were not limited to multiple First Degrees as well as their third annual Major Degree. All Degrees were successful, with the Major Degree bringing into full Knighthood 12 Brother Knights. The major degree had 23 participants for the 2nd and 3rd degrees. The council sponsors a barbecue contest, very large Lenten fish fry season, parish maintenance projects, impromptu fundraisers, and parish ground clean-up projects. Also, these Brother Knights held a Council Free Throw Contest, Soccer Challenge and they sponsor a Brother Knight among them who delivers to homeless people meals. Most of the homeless people receiving meals are immigrants to our great country especially women and children who are underserved and nervous to use the larger soup kitchens and shelters. This council will need to step up recruiting in order to achieve Star Council for Fraternal Year 2016-17. Council 10047: Like 7740, this council is led by a Grand Knight and officers that work hard to bring Father McGivney’s vision to the world. This council hosts a very classy annual awards night. This event should be replicated in the other councils of District 4. This event was attended by a Worthy State Secretary Lou Gaspar and his wife Carole, myself and my fiancée’ Julie, and a large contingent of members and their wives. Other activities hosted by this council include a coat drive inclusive of only personally donated coats. No coats were purchased from Supreme, yet they provided 300 coats to the needy children of the Gretna community. In 2016, this council held four Lenten fish fries that were so successful that the council decided to hold five in 2017. This Lenten activity was marked as a time of great charity. These fish fries are a great example of community building. This council also held multiple 1st Degrees, attended district meetings, and held business meetings that are supremely effective. A successful Major Degree was sponsored by council 10047 on November 20. Full Knighthood in our Order was imparted to 15 Brother Knights. This council could stand to work more consistently during the course of the year on retention. They have a few Knights that are quite behind on their dues. Council 10160: The Grand knight of this council works diligently to create an atmosphere where hard work can be fun and rewarding. When, as his District Deputy, I asked him to expect a second consecutive Star Council he immediately replied that he agreed. All officers in this council are very professional and are consistent givers of charity, unity and fraternity to their council and their parish. This council held its second annual Major Degree inclusive of a First Degree. Five new Knights joined at this Degree and once again 25 Brother Knights made their Second and Third Degrees. What a great event this is becoming. The Brother Knights of this council hosted both the Council and District Levels of the Free Throw Competition. Both competitions were run very smoothly with no problems. Six fish fries, five pancake breakfasts, 6 blood drives, Intellectual Disabilities Drive, Buck-A-Month and One-Rose One-Life are just a few of the many activities this council does well year after year. This fraternal year was no exception with fish fries bringing in more funds than ever before and all other events either holding their own or improving from previous years. Funds from these events go to the less fortunate including those with intellectual disabilities, the poor, the food pantry at the parish, tuition assistance, scholarship funds, and even for Fr. Jim Tiegs’ intentions. Council 14470: This council had 3 pancake breakfast fundraisers this year that help keep them financially solvent. These breakfasts are well received by the parish and the pastor. Additionally, this council has begun to partner up with other organizations in the church to sponsor BUNCO night. This council is recruiting better this fraternal year than it has in several years. This council now has a full complement of officers, and they are dedicated to steady improvement of the council through better recruitment of new members, better management of fundraisers, and increased Knights of Columbus visibility in the parish. This council is successfully improving its relationship with their Round Table at St. Barnabas Church. For the first time the Round Table Knights of Columbus at St. Barnabas ran an Intellectual Disabilities Drive complete with Tootsie Rolls®. This council’s current challenges include forming a strong relationship with the new pastor of Immaculate Conception Church, Fr. John Rickertt, FSSP. Finally, this council has a shot at Star Council if they can improve their activities list some and if they get some help on insurance with the new Field Agent. St. John Paul II -UNO 16680: I was honored to serve as the founding District Deputy for Council 16680. We began organizational meetings for this new council on February 6, 2017. During the first meeting, we determined the level of interest among young Catholics at the Newman Center in becoming members of a college council. The next meeting happened on February 27, where we started to determine the leaders of the future council. At the second meeting, we scheduled membership drives in an attempt to get the number of members up to the 20 member minimum. We held two First Degrees in a three week period to get membership numbers built up. The council number 16680 was assigned on March 17 as was the name of the council. The founding officers were elected on March 30. As of April 25, 2017 there are 29 members in this council. The first pancake breakfast is happening on April 27, and what a first activity this should be! This council may wind down a bit during the summer, but I predict it will hit the ground running next fall. How exciting to be involved at the outset of the start of a new council, especially a college council. District 4: I attended all but seven of the 52 meetings in my District in Fraternal year 2016-17. I now serve council 10047 instead council 9518. This change of councils happened to help District Deputy 6 attend all of his meetings. His four councils' meetings are now on separate nights of the month. I held district meetings on August 20, 2016 and January 20, 2017. Each council had representatives at both meetings. I attended one fish dinner at Council 7740, one at Council 10047 and three at my Council 10160. District 4 hosted three Major Degrees during the past fraternal year. Councils 7740, 10047, and 10160 all hosted successful Major Degrees. For my home council of 10160 I served as the Membership Director. I attended all three major meetings this year including the Leadership seminar in Norfolk in July 2016, Mid-Winter Meeting in Columbus in December 2016 and now the Convention in April 2017 in Kearney. I served as the host District Deputy for the Soccer Challenge. I was joined by two District Deputies and several dedicated Brother Knights to host this successful Soccer Challenge. I served as chairperson for the Free Throw Contest in Region 8. I was joined by my fellow District Deputies from Districts 1, 5, 33 and 36 as well as several dedicated Brother Knights from the councils that held council challenges. The contests both went off with a small problem at both the Soccer Challenge and the Free Throw Contest. An eight year-old boy was allowed to shoot as a nine year-old at the Free Throw Contest, and one boy signed up for the wrong age group at check in at the soccer regional. We have a plan to prevent this next year. The vast majority of the kids had a great time and so did the parents that helped and watched the contest. My main focus for this fraternal year was to encourage all my councils to maintain a high level of work on behalf of the Venerable Michael J. McGivney. As a more experienced District Deputy I tried to help councils hone in on their weaknesses and improve those while staying strong at what they already do well. As always, I asked the leaders and members of District 4 to recruit new members and retain current members with the same zeal Jesus would ask of them. Completing paperwork for Supreme and State has been very good for my councils this year. My paperwork has been very timely this year as well. In closing, I would like to thank State Deputy Tony Hergott for entrusting me with this awesome responsibility and honor. The job of District Deputy for the Knights of Columbus has so far been very gratifying spiritually and personally. Working with the Knights of these excellent councils has been a unique privilege. Respectfully submitted, Stephen Little
District 6 Worthy State Deputy Tony Hergott, State Officers, District Deputies, Grand Knights and delegates to the State Convention, I respectfully submit my report for the 2016-2017 fraternal year as District Deputy 6. District 6 consists of Councils 7034 Fr. John Brock, Valley, 9518 St Gerald, Ralston, 10894 St Joseph’s, Springfield, and 14077 St Charles Borromeo, Gretna. All newly elected officers were installed and instructed of their duties and obligations as leaders of their Councils. All Councils of District 6 had officers present, as well as, myself at the Grand Knight Seminar. The summer District Meeting was held on August 23 and the winter District Meeting was held January 10th both were hosted by Council 10894, St Joseph’s. All District 6 Councils had officers in attendance including myself, the District Deputy. All Councils of District #6 have had representatives present at the newly formed Chapter meetings. Since July 1, 2016, District 6 councils have held 10 Admission Degrees which accounted for 24 new Knights. There will be at least three, if not four, more Admission Degrees in the near future in District 6. St Charles hosted a Major Degree with a second Major Degree scheduled in the District at St Joseph’s on June 4, 2017. This past fraternal year, 2015-2016, all four Councils, 7043, 10047, 10894 and 14077 achieved Star Council. The awards to Council 7034, Council 10894 and Councils 10047 and 14077 were presented by me. The issue for District 6 this year has been slow recruiting. Contributing factors are roster reconciliation and all four councils have submitted suspensions or transfers for numerous members. District 6 is a very active district with all councils involved in every category of the Supreme Programs. All councils exemplary activities are apparent with their respective parishes and communities. One Rose One Life All Youth Programs, Intellectual Disabilities, Coats for Kids, Habitat for Humanity, Food for Families, Emergency Pregnancy Services, St Vincent de Paul, Bethlehem House, Stephen Center, and the Open Door Mission have all been recipients of the generosity and hands on good works of the District 6 councils. It is my honor to serve as District Deputy to these very worthy Councils.
Respectfully submitted, Dennis Schmidt
District 7 Worthy State Deputy Anthony Hergott, State Officers, Fellow District Deputies, State Directors, Delegates and Brother Knights, I respectfully submit my 2016 report for District 7, which consists of Councils 1336 Falls City, 6750 Tecumseh, 7021 Auburn, and 11674 Dawson/Shubert. All councils have complied with the State and Supreme laws and rules of our order. All councils have completed required State and Supreme reports. Throughout this past year these councils have conducted many activities in the areas of Church, Community, Council, Family and Youth. Falls City Council 1336 has been active and recruited new members this year. The Knights held their annual Toy Show and it was well attended and hosted our first district meeting. They were busy with many activities including the Drive for Intellectual Disabilities, One Rose One Life, Monthly Breakfasts, Basketball Free Throw Contest, Holy Family Icon, Fish Fry for Sacred Heart School, prolife activities and billboard to name a few. They had several state winners in the Drug and Alcohol Awareness Poster Contest by area kids. Msgr. Thomas Barden Council 6750 of Tecumseh has been active and hosted the District Free Throw Contest. They conducted their annual Fish Fries and Golf Tournament, both of which were very successful. They hosted the Holy Family Icon, One Rose One Life, and conducted a book club with “Into the Breach” as well as many other activities. Father Frank R. Flicek Council 7021 of Auburn has been active and was set to host our District Major Exemplification that was cancelled by the State due to a blizzard. Unfortunately it was unable to be rescheduled but they hope to host again next year. They conducted a very successful Polar Plunge to benefit Special Olympics, several Lenten fish fries and annual sweet corn sales. They hosted the Holy Family Icon, helped with numerous pro-life activities, and conducted a citywide campaign for Intellectual Disabilities, along with many other activities. Msgr John Flynn Council 11674 of Dawson/Shubert was active and hosted the second district meeting. They conducted a very successful Pork BBQ for the support of the church and mowed the church cemetery throughout the summer. They participated in One Rose One Life, Intellectual Disabilities Campaign, breakfasts, and many other activities. This year I have attended most of the council meetings and several activities of my councils. I attended all of the required state meetings and conventions. I wish to express my thanks and gratitude to State Deputy Anthony Hergott and all the State Officers, my fellow District Deputies, State Directors, and all of my Councils in District 7 for their help and encouragement throughout this year.
Respectfully submitted, Stephen J. Severin, DVM
District 8 Worthy State Deputy, Tony Hergott, fellow District Deputies and Brother Knights. I respectfully submit my report for District 8 which consists of Councils 1723 of Beatrice, 10000 of Steinauer, 14320 of Cortland, and 15869 of Odell. All four councils have been active in their respective parishes and communities this past year. I have been at most of the council meetings and parish functions in their respective churches. I have been in contact with all councils by phone, mail and e- mail. Council 1723 had a very active year. They conducted many excellent programs including a fireworks stand, moving the schools playground and adding a fence, One Rose One Life program, many pancake breakfast, vocations program for seminarians, fish fry’s, and many other activities. The council was very active throughout the year and had two First Degrees. The council hosted a Major Degree and held the District Free Throw Contest. I want to thank the council for the support they gave me while I prepared to get married and look forward to watching this council grow under the leadership of Grand Knight Don Ferneding. Council 10000 had a very active year as well. They held many activities including a cemetery clean up, pancake breakfast, One Rose One Life, fish fry’s, and many other activities throughout the year. I want to thank the council for the support they gave me while I prepared to get married and look forward to watching this council grow. Council 14320 had a strong year in growth and activities. The council was very active this year and will achieve Star Council award this year. The council did a fireworks stand, One Rose One Life program, pancake breakfast, new flag for the parish, a youth fishing activity, and many other great program. I want to thank the council for the support they gave me while I prepared to get married and look forward to watching this council grow. Council 15869 is in its third year and was very active throughout the year. The council will achieve Star Council for the first time. The council did several pancake breakfast, cemetery cleanup, gun raffle, Tootsie Roll® Drive at both the Odell and Wymore parishes, a construction project for stairs into the basement, chicken bbq, and many other great programs throughout the year. I want to thank the council for the support they gave me while I prepared to get married and look forward to watching this council grow. Council 7967 of Wymore remains inactive. Respectfully submitted, Matthew Schroeder District 9 Worthy State Deputy Tony Hergott, State Officers, Fellow District Deputies, State Directors, Delegates, and Brother Knights: I respectfully submit my report for district Number 9, which consist of Councils 9563, 9704, 11001, and 13015 of Lincoln. All four of my councils have complied with State and Supreme laws and rules of our order. The councils have completed all audits and fraternal survey reports. Throughout the year, these councils have operated to the best of their ability, achieving success as leaders within their respective parishes. These councils have held numerous fundraisers, both large and small, provided fellowship, and supported their parishes and their priests. The past year, I have attended the majority of the council meetings along with two joint all-city meeting with Districts 10 and 34. The councils of District 9 have hosted several First Degrees and Council 9563 hosted a Major Degree. Council 11001 evangelized several new members from Our Lady of Guadalupe Seminary. Council 9563 hosted the Region 1 Free Throw Contest with over 50 athletes in attendance. And all councils participated in the Holy Family Icon service/program. As the city coordinator for the citywide coats for kids in partnership with the State Council and Lincoln Catholic Social Services the Lincoln Knights gave out over 1,000 coats to children in need. It was an amazing experience watching the Spirit at work in my Brother Knights and in the children. Along with the Knights, we had 19 UNL student athletes and a Nebraska State Patrolman, I can say that this experience had a lasting impact on each of them! I would like to thank all of my councils and fellow District Deputies for their assistance, support, and hospitality throughout the year. You have made my first year as a DD an amazing experience. I would also like to thank the priests for their continued support of the Knights of Columbus along with our Field Agents - Jon Dunham, John Soukup, Spencer Ashburn, and Kevin Pfeifer, General Agent for Eastern Nebraska for their help and support. I would also like to offer thanks to Tony Hergott and all of his State Officers and Directors throughout this past fraternal year for the mentorship and patience.
Respectfully submitted, Mark Kistler District 10 Worth State Deputy Tony Hergott, State Officers, Fellow District Deputies, State Directors, Delegates and Brother Knights: I respectfully submit my report for District 10, which consists of Councils 11280, 11312, 13576, and 15407 of Lincoln. All four of my councils have complied with the State and Supreme laws and rules of our Order. The councils have completed all audits and fraternal survey reports. Throughout the year these councils have operated at the best of their abilities being successful leaders in their own councils and parish communities. The projects and action of these members have supported their church, community, and their priest. No matter how small or large, simple or complex the project or activity, the members of these councils always step forward and get the job done. Over the past year I have attended the majority of the council meetings and two district meeting held in conjunction with District 9 and District 34 in Lincoln, one Leadership Conference held in Columbus, the Mid-Year Conference held in Norfolk, and numerous council events. Some of the Council activities in my District consist of the following: held numerous First Degrees, a Second Degree hosted by Council 13576, 3rd Degree hosted by 11280, Lincoln Area Coats for Kids, food donations to Catholic Social Services, hosted a special Mass for Veterans Day, the Market-2-Market Relay, a golf tournament, numerous fundraisers, Free Throw Contest. The District Free Throw Contest was hosted by Council 11280 and provided works to the Regional Free Throw Contest hosted by District 9. They also had fish fries during Lent, pro-life activities, firework stands, Tootsie Roll® Drive, assisted parish families when assistance was needed, pancake breakfasts, Keep Christ In Christmas Poster Contest, Drug and Alcohol Abuse Poster Contest, and the list goes on. I have two councils that have met their membership quota for Star Council. All councils are working hard on recruiting new members. I would like to thank all my councils and fellow District Deputies for their assistance, support, and hospitality throughout the year. You have made this year very enjoyable. I would like to express thanks to my Knights of Columbus Field Agents – John Soukup, John Stoeckinger, and Jon Duham, along with Kevin Pfeifer, General Agent for Eastern Nebraska for their help and support. I also would like to say thanks for the support, assistance, and guidance to Worth State Deputy Tony Hergott and all his State Officers and Directors throughout this past fraternal year. Respectfully Submitted, Rod Middagh
District 12 Worthy State Deputy Anthony “Tony” Hergott, State Officers, fellow District Deputies, Delegates and Brother Knights: I respectfully submit my report for District 12. The Councils of 1708 York, 8469 Seward, 11822 Exeter/Friend, and 14508 Beaver Crossing/Utica, are very active in their church and communities and have complied with Supreme and State laws and rules. Each council has shown me great hospitality, for which I am grateful. Council 1708 York has been involved in many fundraising events. Council 8469 Seward continues its monthly pancake breakfast, which they have been doing for over 11 years. The profits fund their college scholarship program. This Lenten season they also served two fish fry events for the parish. The council has had a very good membership drives this year. They should be a Star Council this year. Council 11822 Exeter/Friend is growing slowly with its new leadership. 14508 Beaver Crossing/Utica keeps adding to their activities. They had a Third Annual Pork and Polka Fest as a fund raiser to remodel the rectory. Their member growth is slow but they keep asking others to join. District 12 has an active and growing 4th Degree Assembly providing Honor Guard for over 10 different events. I have enjoyed all the times I have spent with these Brother Knights. Many friendships have been formed and will continue. I would like to thank SD Tony Hergott for allowing me to serve District 12.
Respectfully submitted, Terry Wehrs
District 13 Worthy State Deputy Anthony Hergott, State Officers, Fellow District Deputies, State Directors, Delegates and Brother Knights: I respectfully submit my 2016 report for District 13 which consists of Councils 1497 Fremont, 3736 North Bend, 10305 Ft Calhoun, and 10412 Blair. All councils have complied with the State and Supreme laws and rules of our Order. All councils have completed state reports. Throughout this past year, these councils have conducted many activities in the areas of Church, Community, Council, Family and Youth. St. John the Baptist, Council 10305, of Fort Calhoun has been extremely active and did achieve the Star Council Award. The Knights held their annual Big Red Night fundraiser that was very well attended. They’ve participated in the yearly Tootsie Roll Drive® for the handicapped. They also participated in the Coats for Kids distribution in Lincoln. St. Francis Borgia Council 10412 of Blair is a small but growing council. They did achieve the Star Council Award. They’ve been busy with several activities which include the following: One Rose One Life, Pancake Feeds, annual Tootsie Roll® Drive, Basketball Free Throw Contest, Right to Life Prayer Chain and Prolife Art Contest. They sponsor very successful Lenten Fish Fries and an annual barbecue fundraiser. They also hosted the District 13 Free Throw Contest. St. Thomas Aquinas Council 3736 of North Bend participates in the annual One Rose One Life campaign, four annual pancake feeds, an annual Spaghetti Feed and Lenten Fish Fries. They make annual donations to Catholic Radio, their parish, and community from their fundraisers. They sponsor a monthly newsprint recycling program. Phil Sheridan Council 1497 of Fremont is involved in many activities which include the following: pancake breakfasts, Lenten Fish Fries, and the annual Halloween Dance for the handicapped. Council members participate in the annual Tootsie Roll® Drive, the One Rose One Life Campaign, and the Right to Life Prayer Chain. They host a person or group of community interest to present a program before most of their monthly meetings. This year I have attended most council meetings and several activities. I wish to express my thanks and gratitude to State Deputy Anthony Hergott and all the State Officers, my fellow District Deputies, State Directors, and all of my Councils in District 13 for their help and support throughout this year. Respectfully submitted, Rolland H Dvorak District 14 Worthy State Deputy Anthony Hergott, State Officers, Fellow District Deputies, State Delegates and Brother Knights: I respectfully submit my 2016-2017 report for District #14 which consists of 5439 Howells, 7887 Clarkson, 7779 Wisner, 9898 Leigh and 12132 Stanton. All councils have complied with the State and Supreme laws and rules of our Order. All councils are activite in the areas of Church, Community, Council, Family and Youth. Pope John XXII 5439 Howells has been extremely active and did achieve the Star Council for the third year in a row. The Knights had their Annual Tractor Pull in which there was 110 pulls. They had a family fun night, which consisted of a steak fry and bouncy house for the children. They participate in the yearly Tootsie Roll® Drive, One Rose One Life, Free Throw Contest, Keep Christ in Christmas Poster Contest, leading the Rosary at Mass, Memorial Mass for the deceased. They sponsor very successful Lenten Fish Fries, and French Toast Breakfasts. They also hosted a Major Degree Exemplification with one of the largest classes. They received a Building the Domestic Church Series with Kiosk for recruiting new members, and also participated in the Holy Family Hour of Prayer. St. John Newman Council 7887 is a very active, small council, which will receive the Star Council Award. They have been busy with pro-life activities, including the March For Life in Lincoln and Washington, D.C. They also participate in the Basketball Free-Throw, Tootsie Roll® Drive, have Pancake Breakfasts, a Soup and Pie Dinner. They also coordinate and help with the St. John Newman Fall Fest, which is a fundraiser for the Catholic school. They did Holy Family Hour of Prayer, a Memorial Mass for deceased members and lead Rosary before Mass. Fr. Joseph Rose Council 7779 Wisner, is in a small community that is predominately Protestant. They participate in the One Rose One Life, Tootsie Roll® Drive and church and community events. They will have pancake breakfasts, hamburger feeds for fundraisers. They are replacing the Financial Secretary since the previous one resigned without notice. Hopefully, with the assistance of the D.D. and State Officers and Directors, this Council will grow. St. Mary Council 9898 is another small council but is active and led by young and energetic officers. They hosted the District Free Throw Contest, and participate in One Rose One Life, Tootsie Roll® Drive, lead the Rosary before Mass, Holy Family Hour of Prayer, a Memorial Mass for the deceased. They have a food stand at the County Fair and pancake breakfasts for fundraisers. They donate money for the seminarians and Spirit Radio and spend hours for maintenance for the church. St. Peter's of Stanton Council 12132 is a very active council. They participate in the Tootsie Roll® Drive, One Rose One Life and Free Throw Contest. For fundraisers they do controlled burns on CRP Land and hamburger feeds. They also will have a lunch for CCD Teachers and students, and will give a Scholarship to a graduating Senior. They lead a Rosary before Mass, Usher and EMHC. They also have a K of C meeting at the Senior Citizen Center for K of C members that reside there. This year I have attended most council meetings and several activities. I wish to express my thanks and gratitude to State Deputy Anthony Hergott and all the State Officers, my fellow District Deputies, State Directors, and all of my councils in District 14 for their help and support throughout this year. Respectfully submitted, Donald F. Cech District 15 Worthy State Deputy Anthony Hergott, State Officers, Fellow District Deputies, State Directors, Delegates and Brother Knights: I respectfully submit my 2016- 2017 report for District 15, which consists of Councils 1309 Emerson, 3844 South Sioux City, 5143 Randolph, 8579 Wayne, and 9939 Ponca. All councils have complied with the State and Supreme laws and rules of our Order. All councils have completed state reports. Throughout this past year, these councils have conducted many activities in the area of Church, Community, Council, Family and Youth. All of these councils have organized several fundraising activities, provided fellowship, and supported their parishes and priest. Several councils had surprisingly great successes in parish fundraising. Council 1309 Emerson, Council 3844 South Sioux City, and 8579 Wayne all held fish fries during the Lenten season, with great success. This past year, I attended most council meetings and several activities. Council 8579 Wayne hosted the Local, District and Regional Free Throw Contests. Three councils in the district participated in the event. Council 8579’s First Degree Team went to Howells to hold two Admissions Degrees and one in Crofton. A Major Degree was held at Council 5143 Randolph on December 4, 2016. Council 3844 South Sioux City held a Major Degree on February 12, 2017. Then Council 8579 Wayne held their Major degree on March 12, 2017. Officers have been installed in three out of the five councils. All councils participated in “One Rose, One Life” campaign as well as the Tootsie Roll® Drive. I am proud to say all councils in District 15 were able to participate in The Holy Family Icon. I want to take this opportunity to thank Field Agents Craig Pfeifer and Jeremy Borchers for all their support and help to all the councils. Thank you State Deputy Tony Hergott for always having a listening ear and all your help this past year. I want to express my gratitude and thanks to the State Officers, fellow District Deputies, State Executive Secretary Ray Guggenberger for all your help and support. Also, thank you to all my Brother Knights. God’s Blessings to All. Respectfully Submitted Ken Prokop
District 16 No report received.
Doyle Stevens
District 17 Worthy State Deputy Anthony Hergott, State Officers, Supreme Officer, fellow District Deputies, Grand Knights, and delegates to the State Convention of the Knights of Columbus and Brother Knights: I respectfully submit my report for District 17. It has been an honor and a privilege to serve this past year as District Deputy. I am proud to report that all the councils that are in my district, consisting of Councils 1238 Creighton, 1793 Norfolk, 7550 Neligh, 11054 Pierce, and 12517 Battle Creek, have been very active and have indeed exemplified the true meaning of Charity, Unity, and Fraternalism of our Order. Each council has participated in many events which have benefited Council, Church, and Community. They have all been extremely generous in their works of charity toward those most in need. Council 1238 Creighton participated in the One Rose One Life Campaign, Intellectual Disabilities Drive, and the Youth Free Throw Contest this year. The council is active each year by raising money with an annual “Steak Night Out” to support the young people of their parish. One project was to help their Parish’s “Y” Disciples to travel on a Mission Trip to Jamaica. They are very active in the support of the parochial grade school. They do share and take turns with other parish groups with fish fries, hamburger cook-outs, and doing parish breakfasts in support of the parish needs. Council 1793 Norfolk always does an excellent job throughout the year with many projects that benefit the council and their parish with fish fries (broke record attendance this year), Bingo, and rent from the use of their hall. The money earned is in support of their many projects including, church, youth, community, pro-life, and many more important causes and projects. The council also has a certified Admission (First) Degree team, as well as a certified Formation (Second) Degree team. The council supports new membership by assisting other councils with Exemplifications. Council 1793 hosted a Major Degree on March 12 of this year and a Fourth Degree at their hall on March 13, 2016. The council also had participated in the One Rose One Life Campaign, Intellectual Disabilities Drive, and the Youth Free Throw Contest this year. The council hosted the District Free Throw Contest this year again. And a Note: Brian and Mary Jo Hamik of this council are our State Council’s Culture of Life Directors. Council 7550 Neligh is active each year by raising money with an annual Ham and Beef Supper to raise money for the many council projects. A Seminarian Breakfast was held again to raise money for the RSVP program. The council is active in One Rose One Life Campaign and the Intellectual Disabilities Drive. They are also active in their local youth with a couple of fun nights out bowling. They did not participate in the Youth Free Throw Contest this year. This council does have a young member of the council that is in the seminarian program studying for the priesthood. Council 11054 Pierce participated in the One Rose One Life Campaign, Intellectual Disabilities Drive, and the Youth Free Throw Contest again this year. They support the church community by helping maintain the church and parish hall. They support the Religious Ed Program in various capacities. They raise money every year with an annual pancake feed for their council projects. The council has an annual Spaghetti Feed and Raffle to support (taking turns) the Newman Centers at our state colleges. They take care of the parish’s cemetery maintenance in the summer. The council is very pro-active in helping their parish’s new mothers and the parish’s elderly in need. Council 12517 Battle Creek is active in their local parish and community needs. They did participate in the One Rose One Life Campaign and Intellectual Disabilities Drive again this year. They did not participate in the Youth Free Throw Contest. They are, however, very supportive of their parish’s CCD program. The council was very successful with their fish fries in raising money to support their parish and youth. Their parish had some extensive remodeling done to their church on the inside, and this council was instrumental in paying the expenses of the project. All the councils in District 17 participated in the One Rose One Life Campaign and the Intellectual Disabilities Drive. Three of the five councils participated in the Youth Free Throw Competition. They all have participated in programs that benefited their councils, the State, and the Supreme Councils. Council 1793 has had good success in recruiting new Brother Knights; Council 11054 with a little success; Councils 1238, 7550, and 12517 have not been successful this year. We will keep working on that effort. I would like to thank State Deputy Anthony Hergott for allowing me to serve him and the state council as District Deputy and to the State Officers and Program Directors for their support to District 17 and myself and to my councils for their continuous support and understanding.
Respectfully submitted, William Fehringer District 18 Worthy State Deputy Anthony Hergott, State Officers, Directors, District Deputies, Grand Knights and delegates to the 112th State Convention: I respectfully submit my report for the 2016-2017 fraternal year for District 18. The councils I serve are 1794 “Ave Maria” in Humphrey, 2411 “Saint Boniface” in Elgin, 7762 “Father John P. Stears” in Platte Center and 8986 “Saint Leonard” in Madison. This was the first fraternal year that all the councils in my district were involved in the ceremony of Installation of Officers. Councils 2411 and 7762 had installations in their churches with the councils’ Chaplains participating in the ceremonies. The officers’ wives and families were invited to the event and those councils served a lunch at the close of the ceremony. These were all very gratifying events. So far in this fraternal year, there have been seven Admission Degrees and one Major Degree in my district. Even though we have 25 new members, we are still recruiting and hope to schedule more Admission Degrees. It was an honor to help bring these new members into our Order and to help my councils with their degrees. Councils 2411 and 8986 sponsored church drives this year. Council 8986’s church drive was focused on the Hispanic community. We were grateful for the help of Ignacio Cervantes, a Regional Membership Director, in supporting and assisting us with this project. It has been a challenging membership year for our district, but we are finally in positive numbers thanks to the hard work of the councils and their officers. The councils of District 18 participated in more programs this year with the hope of helping to Build the Domestic Church. These are a few of the activities: the Silver Rose; Adoration to The Holy Family; Intellectual Disabilities; Coats for Kids; One Rose One Life; local food banks; youth programs including Free Throw, soccer and the KCIC Poster Contest; fish fries; RSVP; supporting the KC State Foundation; and many more breakfast, meals and fundraisers to help the needy in our communities. It has been an honor and a privilege to serve these councils.
Respectfully submitted, Mark Dwyer
District 19 Worthy State Deputy Tony Hergott, Supreme Director, State Officers, fellow District Deputies, delegates to the State Convention, and brother Knights: I respectfully submit my report for District #19. The district consists of Councils 938 Columbus, 2716 Schuyler, 9264 Columbus, and 12086 Columbus. It has been an honor and a privilege to serve this past year as District Deputy for this district. All four of the councils all had their officers installed in July and August. Councils 2716 Schuyler, #9264 Columbus, and 12086 Columbus have a First Degree Exemplification Team. Council 938 Columbus is looking at putting together a team. First they will need to find their old books or I will need to contact Supreme about new books for them. All foyr councils have submitted their council reports. We have held nine First Degrees in the district. All four councils have participated in the Tootsie Roll® Drive, One Rose One Life, Keep Christ in Christmas, Free Throw Contest, Soccer, and RSVP programs along with many others. All the Grand Knights or their Deputy Grand Knights and I attended the Grand Knights seminar in July. I attended the State District meeting in Lincoln in December, and Council 938 Columbus, hosted a Major Degree on February 26, 2017 in Columbus. I held two district meetings in Columbus and both were well attended. I enjoyed attending banquets, fundraisers, and other activities that the councils held throughout the year. The District Free Throw Contest was held in Schuyler and the Regional was held in Spalding. The District Soccer and Regional Soccer Contests were both held in Columbus. The district councils worked together to support the Silver Rose run. Our district was privileged to have two services, one held by Council 2716 in Schuyler and he other service held by Council 12086 in Columbus. Our district also was privileged to host The Holy Family Icon. Columbus councils had the icon from October 17th to the 28th. Schuyler Council # 2716 held there service for the Icon from October 29th to the 31th. All the councils have many additional ongoing projects, which gives all their members the opportunity to be active in their councils in a way that they can enjoy giving their service to others. I appreciate the opportunity to have served as District Deputy for this year.
Respectfully submitted, Ronald Faltys
District 20 No report received. Dan Rosno
District 21 Worthy State Deputy Tony Hergott, Supreme Director, State Officers, fellow District Deputies, delegates to the State Convention and brother Knights. I respectfully summit my report for District 21, the District consist of Council 1739 Albion, 1312 Greeley, 7889 Cedar Rapids and 13584 Spalding. It has been an honor and privilege to serve this past year as DD for the District. The councils all had officers installed. Some council’s had a 1st degree and Spalding had 1st, 2nd and 3rd. All councils have participated in the Tootsie Roll Drive, One Rose One Life, Keep Christ in Christmas, and Free Throw Contest. Some Grand Knights and I attended the Grand Knights Seminar in July. I attended the Mid-Winter meeting in Norfolk and hosted district meeting I enjoyed attending council activities though out the year. The District and Regional free throw contest was held in Spalding. All councils participated in the Silver Rose together. I appreciate the opportunity to have served this one year as District Deputy for the State Deputy Tony Hergott and a total of 6 years as DD for 20 and 21.
Respectfully submitted, Dave Inman
District 22 No report received. Chuck Donner
District 23 Worthy State Deputy, Worthy State Chaplin, Worthy State Officers, State Chairmen, Grand Knights, and Brothers in Christ, District 23, which consists of Councils 1904 Hebron, 1906 Lawrence and 7714 Superior/Nelson, submit the following report: Council 1904 of Hebron is a very active council they participated in the 4th of July parade and had an ice cream booth at the celebration promoting their councilThey also participated at the local County Fair with a Pork Chop Feed and a float in the parade. The parish picnic, Free Throw Contest, One Rose One Life, and Campaign for People with Intellectual Disabilities was sponsored by them. They also had a Memorial Mass for their departed members. They went caroling at the nursing, care and assisted living homes. This year they spearheaded a benefit for a needy Knight and his family. They also sponsored a Major Degree. These are just a few of the many activities this council does. They are also in line for Star Council. Council 1906 Lawrence is also a very active council. They also had a Memorial Mass, parish picnic, altar server outing and several pancake breakfasts. They participated in the Campaign for People with Intellectual Disabilities, TV Mass, donated to Catholic radio, donated to the Newman Center, Buck a Month, and many other activities. Council 7714 Superior/Nelson, also an active council, participated in the Campaign for People with Intellectual Disabilities, support of a seminarian, TV Mass and One Rose Life. The had a Memorial Mass, parish picnic, pancake breakfasts, and they make buttons for their community’s Lady Vestey Day. Their biggest project is called Spirit of Christmas. This program is set up to give money to anyone needing help around Christmas. They and other organizations in the community have raised over $58,000 for this worthwhile project.
Respectively submitted, David Wiedel
District 24 Worthy State Deputy Anthony Hergott, State Officers, Fellow District Deputies, State Directors, Delegates and Brother Knights: I respectfully submit my 2016 report for District 24, which consists of Councils 1728 Kearney, 2040 Lexington, 10923 Kearney, and 12687 Elm Creek/Amherst/Overton. All councils have complied with the State and Supreme laws and rules of our Order. All councils have completed state reports. Throughout this past year these councils have conducted many activities in the areas of Pro Life, Church, Community, Council, Family and Youth. St. James Council 1728 of Kearney has been busy with activities which include the following: One Rose One Life, annual Tootsie Roll® Drive, Free Throw Contest, Right to Life Prayer Chain, and fifth Sunday breakfasts. They sponsor very successful Lenten Fish Fries. They make annual donations to Catholic Radio, their parish, and other charitable organizations. They also hosted the District 24 Free Throw Contest. Lexington Council 2040 participates in many activities which include: One Rose One Life campaign, Tootsie Roll® Drive, Community Thanksgiving Dinner, Lady of Guadalupe Celebration, and other events. They make annual donations to their Parish, and the community from their fundraisers. Prince of Peace Council 10923 of Kearney participates in many activities which include: One Rose One Life Campaign, Tootsie Roll® Drive, fifthe Sunday rosaries, May Crowning meal, annual parish family picnic, cook breakfast for Catholic Charities fundraiser, Free Throw Contest, Soccer Challenge, and serve a Lenten Fish Fry. They make annual donations to Catholic radio, their parish, and the community from their fundraisers. They also hosted the District 24 Soccer Challenge. Fr. Robert Foster Jubilee Council 12687 of Elm Creek/Amherst/Overton is involved in activities which include the following: the annual Tootsie Roll® Drive, the One Rose One Life Campaign, and a soup/dessert fundraiser during a high school basketball game. They also give a scholarship to every graduating high school senior from all three towns. This year I have attended most council meetings and several activities. I wish to express my thanks and gratitude to State Deputy Anthony Hergott and all the State Officers, my fellow District Deputies, State Directors, and all of my councils in District 24 for their help and support throughout this year. Respectfully submitted, Mitchell S O’Neill District 25 Worthy State Deputy Anthony Hergott, State Officers, fellow District Deputies, Delegates and Brother Knights, I respectfully submit my 2017-2017 report for District 25. I have four councils: Broken Bow 2388, Ord 2292, St. Paul 1918, and Loup City 5455. All the councils are very active in their communities. I installed officers in all councils in the fall. Broken Bow held a Major Degree Exemplification in October with about 20 members receiving First or Second and Third Degrees. There were a couple of Admission Degrees held. Two councils held the Holy Family Hour of Prayer service and one held the Silver Rose service. One council provides Bingo on a weekly basis for the elderly and others who wish to attend. Three councils do fish fries. Three councils have a Valentine’s Sweetheart Banquet to give thanks to their wives for all their love and support they give to us. Each council added from one to three new members this year but overall it was slow going. St. Paul held a breakfast to raise money for a seminarian and had a real good turnout. There were many other very good projects done. All councils held Free Throw Contests with Loup City hosting the Districts.
Respectfully submitted, Marvin Wardyn
District 26 Worthy State Deputy Anthony Hergott, State Officers, fellow District Deputies, Delegates and Brother Knights; I respectfully submit my 2017-2017 report for District 26, which consists of councils 701 in O’Neill, 3720 in Spencer and Butte, 4707 in Atkinson and 5881 in Stuart. All councils have completed state reports. Throughout this past year, these councils have conducted activities in the areas of Church, Community, Council, Family and Youth. Charles Carrol of Carrollton Council 701 held the One Rose One Life program and fish dinners through Lent. They recruited five new members. They helped with the church auction and contributed to St. Mary’s School. They helped students with expenses to the March for Life event in Washington DC. They conducted the Council Free Throw Contest. Rev W. W. Kroupa Council 372, Butte/Spencer 3720 held fish dinners through Lent. They conducted a One Rose One Life Poster Contest and the Council Free Throw Contest. They also hosted the District Free Throw Contest. They contributed to the Spencer, Lynch and Butte parishes. St Joseph’s Council 4707, Atkinson held fish dinners in Lent, contributed to the church and school, and helped fund and participated in the parish auction. The held a Council Free Throw Contest. They worked on several projects in their community. St Boniface Council 577, Stuart held Lenten fish dinners and conducted a Substance Abuse Poster Contest. The held a free night of games during the annual community celebration. All District 26 councils participated in the One Rose One Life programs and Tootsie Roll® Drives.
Respectfully submitted, John Mathis
District 28 Worthy State Deputy Anthony Hergott, Worthy State Officers and Directors, District Deputies, Chairman, Delegates, and Fellow Brother Knights assembled for this year’s (2017) annual State Convention in Kearney: I respectfully submit my report from District 28. My District includes: St. Patrick-Council 1211 in North Platte, MSGR. Peter J. Kenny-Council 4979 in Ogallala, Christ The King-Council 5315 in Cozad, Holy Spirit-Council 10506 in North Platte, and Father McGivney- Council 12530 also in North Platte. St. Patrick’s Council 1211 hosts two Round Tables, one located in Stapleton serving St. John the Evangelist Parish and the other located in Arnold serving St. Agnes Parish. Each of the Council Officers were duly installed and instructed in their duties and obligations. I have attended their council meetings along with other special events the Council held. The council and Round Tables have participated in “One Rose-One Life” and the “Campaign for Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities”. St. Patrick’s Council 1211 hosted a Free Throw Contest of which one of our young ladies won State. I believe all councils are heavily involved in their home parishes and their communities, serving Lenten fish suppers. Several councils serve monthly breakfasts with the proceeds going to their parish for programs that they sponsor. St. Patrick's Round Tables are also very active, holding programs at their parishes which especially have benefited the young people of their parishes. Council 4879 hosted a basketball game where they served supper with the proceeds going for their council Grand Knight's medical expenses. KOC Foundation gave an additional $3,000 to assist the Grand Knight. Over $10,000.00 was raised. District 28’s Council 5315 stepped forward when at the last minute, the Silver Rose in its travel through Nebraska, needed and found a home for an evening in Cozad at Christ the King Church. The Silver Rose completed its journey through Nebraska in District 28 with Council 12530 hosting it on Saturday evening and Councils 10506 and 1211 hosting it on Sunday morning. The Silver Rose was then escorted to the Kansas state line with McCook’s Council 1126 and District 28, 29 and 30 District Deputies present in the exchange with the Kansas representatives. I wish to express my thanks and gratitude to our State Deputy Anthony Hergott and all the State Officers, my fellow District Deputies and especially my councils in District 28 for their help and support. Mostly I pray; may God allow me to continue helping our councils with the good work they are doing. Respectfully submitted, Mike Stromitis
District 29 No report received. Gerald Colson
District 30 Worthy State Deputy Tony Hergott, Worthy State Officers, Worthy Bishops George Lucas, James Conley, and Joseph Hanefeldt, and Delegates to the 111th annual Nebraska State Knights of Columbus convention, April 27th - April 29th in Kearney, Nebraska: I respectfully submit the annual report of District 30 for Councils 1126 McCook, 7081 Imperial, 7778 Grant, and 10163 Benkelman/Stratton. I attended the Grand Knights Seminar in July at Columbus, the Mid-Winter Meeting in Norfolk as well as the State Convention. I attended the Supreme Convention held in Toronto, Canada in August. I held the District Free Throw Contest in Wauneta on February 12th, as well as the Region 5 Free Throw Contest in McCook on March 8th. I held a Major Exemplification in McCook on February 26th. I attended as many monthly council meeting as possible through the year. All the council participated in many activities throughout the year. All councils participated in One Rose One Life, Tootsie Roll® Drive, Life Chain, Free Throw Contest, and other Supreme activities. Some individual activities were: 1126 McCook sold Lucky Irish Calendars, 7081 Imperial served pie and ice cream at the county Fair, 7778 Grant sold raffle tickets for the whole year, and 10163 Benkelman/Stratton held an annual banquet and recruiting dinner. All the councils had many, many more activities, too numerous to list. I would like to thank all the councils for their work and commitment keeping their councils current on reports, assessments paid, and keeping the councils active. Last but not least, I would like to thank all the State Officers and Directors for their guidance and patience to help me do my job as a District Deputy. It is a honor to serve the Supreme and Nebraska State Councils of the Knights of Columbus.
Respectfully submitted, Kent Lorens
District 32 No report received. Jerome J. Smith District 33 Worthy State Deputy Anthony Hergott, State Officers, Fellow District Deputies, State Directors, Delegates and Brother Knights. I respectfully submit my Spring 2017 report for District 33, which consists of Councils 652, 10184, 11364, and 11800, all of which are located in Omaha, Nebraska. All of these councils have complied with the State and Supreme Laws and Rules of our Order. Most of the Councils have completed their state reports. Since my tenure as District Deputy for District 33, these councils have participated in multiple activities in the areas of Church, Community, Council, Family, and Youth. All of these Councils have organized fundraising activities, providing fraternity and good works. Council 652, as an example, has promoted a number of activities such as 'The Ring Toss' at the Mount Michael Festival. This year, Council 652 gave a large donation to St. Cecilia Cathedral to be applied to their boiler replacement for the campus. "The Sister Appreciation Luncheon" is yet another function that 652 does annually in its 15th year now. Designed to honor Sisters and show their gratitude for their support of the Catholic Church and for the education provided in its schools. The Sisters are given roses, the gift of a one-year novena, and a catered luncheon. I am grateful for all of the support and cooperation from all of the councils within District 33.
Respectfully submitted, Therial L. Bynum, M.D.
District 34 Worthy State Deputy Tony Hergott, State Officers, District Deputies, Grand Knights and Delegates to the Nebraska Council State Convention: I respectfully submit my report for the 2016-2017 fraternal year as District Deputy of Nebraska District 34. The Councils in District 34 are Council 833 Fitzgerald, Council 4923 St. Joseph’s (my home council), 10510 St. Peter’s, and 10913 St. Michael’s. All are in Lincoln, NE. All are in good standing. At the beginning of the fraternal year, there were 1,003 members in these councils. At this writing there are 1,013. I attended the Grand Knight Seminar in July 2016 and was installed as a District Deputy. I provided all state program materials to Grand Knights in the District and held a meeting attended by each Grand Knight and Financial Secretary to introduce myself and discuss activities for the fraternal year. I also attended the Mid-Winter Meeting of the State Council and learned more about my duties as District Deputy. The meeting proved fruitful in renewing my desire to help the councils in this district grow. I was able to attend many of the meetings and some of the events of the councils. I communicated regularly with the councils and responded to questions as they came up. I had the privilege to present awards, including two Star Councils 833 and 10913, Columbian Awards and an award for Percentage Gain in Membership. Each of the councils submitted required reports and their activities and support of the order is exemplary. Each council has a number of activities and it seems all are respected and act with dignity in their parish. Support of seminarians is significant as is the outreach to youth and those in need in their communities. Each conducts activities in support of life through programs like One Rose One Life. I coordinated the District 34 Free Throw Contest, which was hosted by Council 15101. I learned this event is a significant opportunity for recruiting and will look forward to better planning for future events involving youth and parents. The efforts of State Youth Director Mitchell Lowery in assistance with questions and issues, as well as those who assisted in the events, is commendable. The duties of District Deputy 34 were more significant and daunting than I had anticipated, yet I am humbled to be witness to the efforts of so many Knights in the councils of this district. The values of Charity, Unity and Fraternity are exemplified by the significant role of the Knights of Columbus Councils 833, 4923, 10510 and 10913 in the life of the parishes they support This report would be incomplete without recognizing the efforts of the Grand Knights and Financial Secretaries of each Council: 833 Tony Shafers (GK) and Jerry Kehr (FS), 4923 John Fairfield (GK) and Al Topil (FS), 10510 Richard Garneau (GK) and Don Hegemann (FS also my predecessor as DD of District 34), 10913 Chris Lewis (GK) and Scott Oorlong (FS) exemplified the role to which they were elected. I am honored to be of service to these Worthy Councils and the Knights they represent as District Deputy of District 34. Respectfully submitted, Bryan Welty
District 35 Worthy State Deputy, State Chaplain, State Officers, State Directors, Fellow District Deputies, State Delegates and Brother Knights assembled for the Annual Nebraska State Convention of the Knights of Columbus: I respectfully submit my report for District 35, comprised of Councils 09771 – St. Elizabeth Ann (Omaha), 10795 – St. Vincent de Paul (Omaha), 10909 – St. Wenceslaus (Omaha), and 14914 – St. Patrick’s (Elkhorn). All four councils are in good standing as of this date, and each received special recognition awards this fall. Councils 09771, 10795 and 10909 each have certified First Degree Admission Teams. All four councils are working diligently to increase their membership numbers and visibility within their parish and the community. In April 2016, I attended the State Convention as my council’s Financial Secretary and Convention Delegate, while preparing to move into a District Deputy role. In July 2016, I attended the Grand Knight Seminar in Columbus at which time I was installed as District Deputy. During the past nine months since being named District Deputy, I have attended 90+ percent of my councils’ monthly meetings (i.e. generally attending four meeting per month on different nights throughout the month). It is truly inspiring to witness the many diverse and philanthropic activities that each of my councils led throughout the year, whether for parish, youth or community. On September 1, 2016, I hosted a district meeting at which each council had more than one of their leadership team members participate. We appreciated the presence and insights of Nebraska State Deputy Tony Hergott at this meeting. Additionally, Manny Gallardo attended as a guest presenter discussing the Nebraska State Council McGivney Foundation. The meeting offered an excellent opportunity for sharing of ideas for membership, retention, and member engagement. It also allowed leaders in my district to get to know each other better. I attended the District Soccer Shootout Competition, awarding medals to district winners and runner-up contestants. My home council hosted the District Free Throw Contest, at which I again attended and awarded medals to district winners and runner-up contestants. As I think of particular accomplishments these past nine months for each of my councils, I highlight the following: Council 9771, which organized and hosted the regional district soccer shootout competition, has their pastor attend most meetings (he often offers spiritual insights/readings to the membership); Council #10795 (my home council) was the first in the State of Nebraska to meet their membership and insurance goals for Star Council and they held a “Night of 100 Knights” where approximately 100 members attended with Supreme Director and PSD Mike Conrad in attendance, and their noteworthy cause was a $19,000 donation to replace the old, worn-out boiler at the Bethlehem House for homeless, pregnant women; Council 10909, my largest council, again hosted a summer golf outing, started a calendar club for 2017 and raised over $60,000, with over $30,000 being designated for several charitable causes/organizations, most notably leading the cause for another ultrasound machine purchase; and Council 14914, which once again hosted a very successful rib feed for their parish, has taken my suggestions to greatly improve their monthly business meetings so that they are now orderly, respectful and efficiently conducted (with much less useless chatter). This report would be incomplete without recognizing the efforts of the Grand Knights of each Council: Jeremy List (09771), Mick Morrell (10795), Todd Trautman (10909), and Jeff Beaudoin (14914), each of whom has exemplified the role to which they were elected. The efforts of the Financial Secretaries of each council are also deserving of recognition. I would like to thank State Deputy Tony Hergott for entrusting me with this service opportunity. It is an honor to serve the Brother Knights of District 35. Respectfully submitted, Glen R. Kampschneider
District 36 No report received. Daniel Whitehead District 37 It has been an honor to serve as District 37 Deputy for the past year. This district consists of councils; 1717 David City, 5383 Osceola, 10386 Central City, 11652 Bruno/Abie, 14423 Shelby and 15944 Bellwood. Officers were installed and instructed on their duties. 1717 hosted a Major Degree in December. All councils participated in the Tootsie Roll® Drive, One Rose One Life. I attended many council meetings and activities, the State Convention, the leadership training seminar, the midwinter meeting and other events. I worked with councils to get reports sent in on time.
Respectfully submitted, Peter J. Peil District 38 No report received. Kenneth E. Sabata
District 39 Worthy State Deputy, State Officers, fellow District Deputies, and Brother Knights. I respectfully submit my report for the following councils: 4434 Fairbury, 7704 Crete, 7966 Wilber/Tobias, and 11737 Denton. All required council reports to Supreme and State have been submitted and all assessments have been paid. All four councils understand the importance of membership growth and have sincerely attempted to increase membership with church drives and personal invitations. We have had success in recruitment in all councils except 7966. All councils participated in the One Rose/One Life Campaign and the Campaign to Support Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities. The District Free Throw Contest was held at Council 4404 following their Council Free Throw, while Councils 11737 and 7704 participated in the Soccer Challenge. Council 11737 participated in Special Olympic events, the local “Food Net” (Food for Families) with weekly distribution of food to local needy families, and held a family picnic in August. Councils 11737 and 7704 participated in the Lincoln Walk for Life in January. Council 4434 hosted Lenten fish dinners and pancake feeds. Councils 4434 and 11737 participated in Keep Christ in Christmas (card sales). Council 7704 held a very successful “Movie Night” in Crete with half of the proceeds going to the Church Building Fund and Crete Cares. The other half went to support council activities. Three of the four councils had their Grand Knights present for the district workshop. Supreme awards: 4434, 7704, and 11737 received the Columbian award. State awards: Council 11737 was recognized for a Keep Christ in Christmas poster contest Division winner. An Admission, Formation and Knighthood Exemplification were hosted in Crete by Council 7704 in March with 12 candidates. District meetings were held with good attendance and participation.
Respectfully submitted, Joseph W. Keaschall
District 40 Worthy State Deputy Tony Hergott, State Officers, District Deputies, Grand Knights and Delegates to the 112th Annual State Convention held in Kearney, Nebraska: I respectfully submit my report for District 40 consisting of Pius XII Council 1123, St. Michael’s Parish, Hastings; Sacred Heart/Assumption Council 10155, Sacred Heart Parish and Assumption Parish, Roseland; St. John/Holy Family Council 10335, St. John’s Parish Minden and Holy Family Parish, Heartwell; and St. Ann Council 11824, St. Ann’s Parish, Doniphan. Councils within District 40 are holding regular council meetings and are active in their parishes and communities conducting various programs and participating in the Knights of Columbus initiatives. Councils are pursuing and participating in Admission and Major Degrees, Church Drives, Corporate Communion, Coats for Kids, Food for Families, One Rose One Life; Free Throw Championships, Keep Christ in Christmas, March for Life/Walk for Life, Prayer Chains, Soccer Challenge, 40 Cans for Lent, Fish Fry’s, Pancake Feeds, Pasta Feeds, and Tootsie Roll® Drives along with many other council activities and functions. Continuing efforts are being made to complete council audits, election of officers, and council reports in a timely manner as well as attending council meetings and sending council delegates to the State Convention. All councils are often encouraged to submit their council activities on the Columbian Award Application Form SP-7 for Supreme's annual Columbian Award. As of April 1, 2017 the district membership quota stands at 46.8% and the insurance quota stands at 35.7%. Both quota percentages have improved over the previous fraternal year. It is truly a blessing, pleasure, and distinct honor to serve as District Deputy for all of the councils in District 40 of the Nebraska Jurisdiction. Respectfully submitted, Scott Bonham
District 41 Worthy State Deputy Tony Hergott, State Officers, District Deputies, Grand Knights and Delegates to the 112th Annual State Convention held in Kearney, Nebraska: I respectfully submit my annual report for district 41. I consider it an honor to present the exemplary accomplishments and projects of my district’s councils which includes Plattsmouth Council 1966, Nebraska City Council 3152, Syracuse Council 7614, and Ashland/Greenwood Council 12557. All councils. have been very active in the past year and have truly shown the ideals of the Order and acted with true hearts and love for Christ. Council 1966 held monthly free will donation breakfasts for various charities such as Emergency Pregnancy Services, FOCUS, a parish school in India, and for seminarian support. The food stand was used in the local Harvest Festival. They also donated time and treasure to various community projects, a Mother’s Day breakfast with homemade cinnamon rolls and roses for mothers, scholarships for students continuing in Catholic education, as well as continuing all fundraising and community events. The council also helped Fr. David with loading a shipping container to go to his parish in Ghana and donated funds to help dig wells in his parish. Council 3152 ran their food stand at various community events such as the Applejack Festival, the Bull Riding Contest, and the Nebraska State Cornhusking Championship. They sold fresh sweet corn at St. Mary’s and St. Benedict’s churches in the fall, operated five fish fries during lent, operated a food pantry every Saturday, hosted the Knights Free Throw Contest and the District Tournament, participated in One Rose One Life, has replaced a right to life billboard on Highway 2, provided $6,000 in scholarships to Lourdes’s graduates, and donated to Lourdes Central Catholic for general upkeep. They mow the lawns for the Franciscan Sisters of the Sorrowful Mother in Nebraska City as an ongoing service project. Council 7614 held a monthly third Sunday breakfast for parishioners after Mass, hosted fish fries during Lent in the parish hall. In May they held a special breakfast for high school seniors a week before graduation and sponsored a seminarian. During August they held a membership drive where the priest and or a Knight would talk from the pulpit about the Order. They continued the membership drive through September. In October they held a special hunters' breakfast on the opening day of pheasant hunting season. In November they put up the Keep Christ in Christmas signs on parish ground. In December they provided sacks of candy for the CCD kids. This council’s main goal is to empty their account to worthy projects and charities and they have even spent their operating expenses as well when deemed necessary. They are coming along nicely with plans to start a Round Table at St. Leo's Parish in Palmyra. Council 12557 has been very active in the past year they have held various fundraisers such as spaghetti feeds , breakfasts, and making homemade sausage links. They operated a food stand at the community’s annual Stir-Up Parade. 12557 added three new members to the council. All councils are trying to increase membership and visibility within the parish and community.
Respectfully submitted, Patrick J O’Shea
Deputy Hergott called on Past State Deputy Lowery for his report on the resolutions. Past State Deputy Lowery filled in for Advocate Kenneth Leroy who was unable to attend. Past State Deputy Lowery reported that the Resolutions Committee met on April 29, 2017 and approved all resolutions previously submitted to all delegates in March. Past State Deputy Lowery stated that the Committee moved that the assembly approve the 10 Fealty, Support, and Greetings Resolutions. Council 10047 seconded and the motion passed. He continued that the Committee moved to approve the 10 standing Position Resolutions, seconded by council 6192. The motion passed. The Committee moved to approve the eight Authorizing Resolutions. Council 12086 seconded and the motion passed. The approved resolutions are at attachment D. Past State Deputy Lowery returned the gavel to Deputy Hergott. Deputy Hergott continued saying that during the Officer’s meeting on Dec 3, 2016 in Norfolk, Nebraska, it was moved, seconded and the motion passed to open nominations for our Supreme convention in St Louis, Missouri. Informational letters were provided to all subordinate councils in January of this year, and that he nominee background sheet must be turned in to Secretary Gasper at the recess of this meeting. Nominations are closed at this time. Secretary Gasper will have additional copies of the nominee background form available. Deputy Hergott reminded us to support the Squires and visit their display area and purchase any Knights gear available. He also reminded us that the State Lottery drawing would be held during the State Banquet Saturday evening. Deputy Hergott stated that Mass this evening will be in Crystal 2 and 4 at 5:00 PM. This will be followed by a social hour and the State Banquet in Diamond 3, 4, 5, 8, 9 and 10. Mass on Sunday morning will be in Crystal 3 and 4 and 7:45 A.M. “The Chair will now entertain a motion that this meeting be recessed and reconvene at on Sunday, April 30th, 2017 at 9:00 AM. Much remains to be done including the election of officers and delegates to this year’s supreme convention to be held in St. Louis, Missouri.” Council 11001 so moved, seconded by council 2373. The motion passed. The meeting was recessed at 3:50 PM.
SATURDAY – ARIL 29, 2017 – LADIES PROGRAM The afternoon featured a program by Elaine Peacock and Charlotte Endorf in Ruby 6 of the Younes Conference Center. They shared more of their faith journey, triumphs and passions from joyful music to the Orphan Train.
SATURDAY – APRIL 25th, 2015 – MASS The Most Reverend William J. Dendinger, Bishop Emeritus of Grand Island and Former State Chaplain was the principal celebrant of our liturgy in the Crystal Room 4, 5, and 6 of the Younes Conference Center. Concelebrating were Rev John Rooney, State Chaplain, Rev Kenneth Borowiak, Associate State Chaplain, and Monsignor Ivan Vap, Former State Chaplain. Deacon Michael Leick assisted. Over 700 people attended this Mass. Grand Master Haiar provided a Fourth Degree honor guard. The collection was for the Military Ordinariate Fund for the training of seminarians who would serve as military chaplains. The congregation donated $2,500 which was matched by the State Council Vocations Fund for a total of $5,000. PSD Larry Reed presented the necrology, which follows: Necrology Knights of Columbus Mass Kearney, Nebraska – April 29, 2017
Past State Deputy Eugene B. Bartunek State Deputy from 1986 to 1988. He also served our State Jurisdiction in the following capacities: District Deputy, State Council Director, Program Director, State Offices of Warden, Treasurer and State Secretary. His Council Home was 1717 in David City and he was a Fourth Degree member of the St. Thomas Aquinas Assembly.
Father Frederick N. Snyder State Chaplain 1978 to 1980. He was ordained in 1952 for the Diocese of Toledo, Ohio and was assigned to parish ministry in the Grand Island Diocese where he served many parishes. Upon retirement, he returned to Ohio. He was a member of Holy Trinity Council 15043 in Assumption, Ohio and was a member of the Fourth Degree
Harold F. Sucha State Master from 1987-91. He was a member of Schuyler Council 2716. He was also Member of the John F. Kennedy Fourth Degree Assembly in Columbus.
The Following Served as District Deputy
Roderick “Rod” Gerdes 1978 to 1982. He also served as State Membership Director. Rod was a member of North Platte Council 1211 and St Patrick’s Fourth Degree Assembly.
Richard T. “Dick” Gonzalez 1999 – 2003. He was a member of Council 975 in Alliance and a member of Msgr. Francis J. Keller Fourth Degree Assembly.
Raymond Krysl 1980 to 1984. Ray was a member Council 5881 Stuart and member of ‘Msgr. Michael Cassidy Fourth Degree Assembly.
Thomas J. Lynch 2012 to 2015. Tom was a member of Council 10108 St. Robert Bellarmine in Omaha and a member of Father Michael P. Dowling Fourth Degree Assembly.
Wilbur L Parker 1994 to 1996. Bill was a member of Council 6192 in Bellevue and member of Msgr. John Hallinan Fourth Degree Assembly.
Axel M Peterson 1992 to 1994, Pete was a member of Council #6192 in Bellevue and member of Cardinal Francis Spellman 4th Degree Assembly.
Allen “Pete” Wylie 1992- 1996. Pete also as served as State Council Director, Retention Chairman, Scottsbluff Second Degree Team Captain. A member of Council 2681 in Scottsbluff and Father Timothy P. Molony Fourth Degree Assembly. Oh, Heavenly Father, We commend our departed into your hands. We thank you for letting them be a part of our lives.
Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord. ALL: And let perpetual light shine upon them May their souls and the souls of all our departed Brother Knights, through the Mercy of God, Rest in Peace. ALL: Amen We pause now to pay homage to those Brother Knights who have served the Order on the state level, as State Officers or District Deputies, and who have passed on to their Eternal Reward since our last Convention. We pay tribute to them for their faithful and dedicated service to our Order, our Church, and our communities.
SATURDAY – APRIL 29, 2017 – STATE BANQUET Following Mass, a no-host social was held in the Diamond Room of the Younes Conference Center. The main banquet was held in the same room. Deputy Hergott introduced Bishop William J. Dendinger, Bishop Emeritus of the Grand Island Diocese and Former State Chaplain. Bishop Dendinger thanked the gathering for the warm welcome he received and how he thoroughly enjoys his meeting with the Nebraska Knights. He also expressed his and the other Nebraska Bishops' very strong support for our Supreme Knight’s initiative of “Building the Domestic Church”. He stated he was eager to hear Director Smith’s remarks. Deputy Hergott presented a check from the earnings of the Christopher Fund to Bishop Dendinger for the Grand Island Diocese in the amount of $1,854.76. Bishop Dendinger thanked us for this donation and stated he would give it to Bishop Joseph Hanefeldt. Deputy Hergott stated he would soon present checks to Archbishop Lucas and Bishop Connelly from the Christopher Fund. Deputy Hergott introduced Supreme Director Thomas P. Smith, Jr. from the State of Connecticut, the principal speaker for the evening. Director Smith’s remarks follow:
Director Smith thanked the assembly for the very warm greeting. He started by stating as a young man he came to work for the Knights of Columbus in the mailroom at the home office. He intended to stay a short time as he discerned his future. His future is “with the Knights of Columbus and today I am the Chief Executive Officer for our Insurance Department.” He continued by recognizing the three General Agents, Kevin Pfeifer, Tonty Swanson and Neil Pfeifer. He also commented on how he enjoys communicating with your McGivney Swanson, Tony’s son. He stated that he has been shown the best hospitality of any state convention he has attended over the years. Director Smith continued that in the past he worked New Council Development. He stated he learned a great deal of how to make cold calls on parish priests from Mike McGuire in Columbus as he traveled with him. Three years ago, Supreme Director Smith was given the cancer diagnosis of stage three. This caused him to consider the 4 F’s (FFFF), Faith, Family, Friends and Finances. “I faced this challenge with my family and Brother Knights,” he said. He had the courage to face cancer drawing on the courage of Fr. McGivney as he founded our Order. “I and my 4 F’s stepped up to the challenge. Today I am in total remission. It is now time for the Knights of Columbus to step up and fight the challenges to our faith, country and community. Courage comes from the heart.” Deputy Hergott presented Director Smith and his wife a Madonna Bowl as reminders of their visit to us. Deputy Hergott also presented Director Conrad and his wife a bottle of wine. Deputy Hergott next called on Past State Deputy Jerome Smith, our State Council Foundation Advisor. Advisor Smith acknowledged six Brother Knights who attained the next level of giving in our foundation. He continued that the awards for Sustaining Councils would be presented at the Grand Knight Seminar in July. Deputy Hergott called on Warden Richardson if he was prepared to conduct the raffle. Warden Richardson directed his Assistant Wardens to go and sell and collect any last minutes raffle tickets. Warden Richardson asked Bishop Dendinger to draw the winners:
1st Place Winner $2,500 Jack Yontz from Minden 2nd Place Winner $1,000 Barb Lutska from Sergeant 3rd Place Winner $750 Sterling Flott from Omaha 4th Place Winner $500 Bill Laruda from Elm Creek
Deputy Hergott continued and asked Past State Deputy John Smith to conduct an oral auction. Deputy Hergott announced that Mass on Sunday morning would be at 7:45 AM in the Crystal 3 and 4. He continued by stating the business meeting would reconvene at 9:00 AM in Crystal 3 and 4. He also stated the State Council hospitality room was open. The “Colors” were duly retired by Master Haiar. Chaplain Rooney concluded the evening with a final prayer.
SUNDAY, APRIL 30, 2017 – MASS Mass was held in Crystal 3 and 4 at 7:45 AM. Associate Chaplain Borowiak presided. Approximately 250 people attended.
SUNDAY, APRIL 30, 2017 - LADIES BRUNCH Mrs. Hergott hosted a ladies brunch in Crystal 2 of the Younes Conference Center. Elliott Tomazin, a 16 year old young man from Columbus, a magician, entertained. Mrs. Carol Weber also discussed the “Quilt of Valor” program and showed the quilt presented to Ray Guggenberger on Friday. Both were well received.
SUNDAY, APRIL 30, 2017 – BUSINESS MEETING Deputy Hergott reconvened the meeting at 9:05 A.M. “All persons not having received the honors of membership in the third section shall please retire from the chamber. Admissions Degree members from new Council 2351 are permitted to remain in the chamber. The doors shall now be closed and the guards assume their positions. Please turn off or silence all pagers and cell phones.” Deputy Hergott called on Warden Richardson asking if all were in possession of a current membership card and if all delegates were seated in their proper seats. “If not, please have them do so now.” Warden Richardson stated all were in possession of a current membership card and all delegates were properly seated. Deputy Hergott called on Chaplain Rooney asking that he lead is in an opening prayer. Deputy Hergott called on Master Haiar to lead us in the Pledge of Allegiance. Deputy Hergott called on General Agent Tony Swanson for a report of the three general agents. General Agent Swanson requested the reports of the three agencies be entered into the Proceedings without being read. Council 13584 so moved, it was seconded by Council 7743, and the motion passed.
General Agent Eastern Nebraska Worthy Reverend Fathers, State Deputy Tony Hergott, State Officers, District Deputies, Honored Guests, Delegates, all Brother Knights and their wives attending the 2017 Nebraska State Convention in Kearney, Nebraska: I am proud to report the outstanding achievements of the Pfeifer Agency for 2016 and our commitment to our members and their families. The Pfeifer Agency finished 2016 ranking as the #6 agency in North American for the Knights of Columbus, coming in at 159% of quota. Our team also ranked high in Long Term Care sales and Disability Income sales. Our agency was recognized nationally at our GA and FA meetings in March in Mexico City, Mexico. There are 136 agencies in North America competing for these honors and we are proud to represent the State of Nebraska K of C at the highest levels at this meeting. Of course, to accomplish these top rankings you must have a wonderful team and we surely do. I am proud to announce that our Agent of the Year for 2016 was John Stoeckinger of Lincoln who finished #8 nationally and was 361% of quota, he was also recognized at our national meeting, John was also a MDRT and Supreme Knight's Club qualifier. Runner up Agent of the Year was J. Krawczyk of Omaha. Jon Dunhan and Matt George also had an impressive year. The Pfeifer Agency has eight full time agents that serve our members in Eastern Nebraska. We are all committed to providing the highest level of service and advice for our K of C families. We enroll in many continuing education programs such as the FIC and FICF courses, etc. J. Krawczyk became the first agent in Nebraska to complete his CHFC designation. Congratulations J! We offer our members a wide array of products including various life insurance programs, Long Term Care Insurance, Disability Income insurance as well as IRA’s, Roth IRA’s, pension and 401K rollover and annuities. Knights of Columbus Insurance have the highest ratings in the industry. There is no higher rated insurer in North America. Our profits go to charity and we “morally and responsibly invest in line with Catholic Doctrine”. Finally, speaking for myself and all of the field agents serving Eastern Nebraska, we would like to thank all of our Brother Knights and their families for their support and encouragement. We pledge to give the very highest level of service possible and offer solid financial advice to all, from someone you can trust.
Respectfully and Fraternally, Kevin G Pfeifer, FICF
TONY SWANSON, FICF General Agent 105 N. Hastings Ave. #212 HASTINGS, NEBRASKA 68901 Phone: Bus: (402) 463-2845 Ext. 1 Fax: (888) 398-7592 E-Mail: [email protected] Making a Difference for Life
April 28, 2017
Worthy Reverend Fathers, State Deputy Tony Hergott, State Officers, District Deputies, Honored Guests, Delegates, and all Brother Knights and their wives attending the 2017 Nebraska State Convention in Kearney, Nebraska. The Swanson Agency of Central/Western Nebraska had an excellent year in our eighth year of existence. The agency currently has eight agents and will add an additional agent in June which will make us fully staffed. All of our agents are working hard to serve their members and help further Fr. McGivney’s vision of protecting and serving Catholic men and their families. The Swanson Agency Agent of the Year for 2016 was Tim Nowak, FICF. Tim finished as #113 in the Order in life sales out of approximately 1,400 agents. Tim also qualified for MDRT membership (6th time) which represents approximately the top 3% of life insurance agents in the world. This is the fifth time that Tim has been named the Swanson Agency Agent of the Year. The Knights of Columbus insurance division had another marvelous year with our 16th consecutive year of record sales. There are no other more highly rated companies in the industry, as the Knights has received the top available rating again from AM Best and were named as one of the world’s most ethical companies by the Ethisphere Institute. Finally, I would like to thank all our Brother Knights and their families for their support. It is their faith and confidence in the Knights of Columbus and our agents that encourages us to do our best to further Fr. McGivney’s charge to us as insurance agents.
Fraternally, TONY SWANSON, FICF General Agent – Central/Western Nebraska
General Agent Eastern Nebraska Worthy Reverend Fathers, State Deputy Tony Hergott, State Officers, District Deputies, Honored Guests, Delegates, all Brother Knights and their wives attending the 2017 Nebraska State Convention in Kearney, Nebraska: I am proud to report the outstanding achievements of the Neil Pfeifer Agency for 2016 and our commitment to our members and their families. The Neil Pfeifer Agency finished 2016 ranking as the #16 agency in North American for the Knights of Columbus, coming in at 133% of quota. Our team also finished #7 in ranking nationally in Disability Income sales and Long Term Care Ins continue to be strong. Our agency was recognized nationally at our GA and FA meeting in March in Mexico City, Mexico. There are 136 agencies in North America competing for these honors and we are proud to represent the state of Nebraska K of C at the highest levels at this meeting. I am proud to announce that our Agent of the Year for 2016 was Jeremy Borchers from West Point, who finished #37 nationally and was 216% of quota, he was also recognized at our national meeting, Jeremy was a Supreme Knights Club qualifier also. Runner up Agent of the Year was Doug Kelly of Omaha. Craig Pfeifer and Kevin Weber also had an impressive year. The Neil Pfeifer Agency has 10 full time agents that serve our members in Northeastern Nebraska. We are all committed to providing the highest level of service and advice for our K of C families. We enroll in many continuing education programs such as the FIC and FICF courses etc.! We offer our members a wide array of products including various life insurance programs, Long Term Care Insurance, Disability Income insurance as well as IRA’s, Roth IRA’s, pension and 401K rollover and annuities. Knights of Columbus Insurance have the highest ratings in the industry. There is no higher rated insurer in North America. Our profits go to charity and we “morally and responsibly invest in line with Catholic Doctrine”. Finally, speaking for myself and all of the field agents serving Northeastern Nebraska, we would like to thank all of our Brother Knights and their families for their support and encouragement. We pledge to give the very highest level of service possible and offer solid financial advice to all, from someone you can trust.
Respectfully and Fraternally, Neil J Pfeifer, FICF General Agent for Northeastern Nebraska
Deputy Hergott called on Secretary Gasper to conduct the official roll call of delegates. Secretary Gasper reminded all that delegates must be present and voting to receive their expense checks. The roll call was duly conducted, the results follow: State Deputy Hergott – Present State Secretary Gasper - Present Immediate Past State Deputy Lowery – Present State Chaplain Reverend Rooney - Present State Treasurer Borytsky - Present State Advocate Leroy – Excused State Warden Richardson - Present Deputy Hergott continued, we will now proceed with elections. Charter Constitution and Laws of the Order will be strictly observed during all elections. Only third degree members may run for state office. Only one second to a nomination shall be accepted. Voting shall be written and be a roll call vote. Only those delegates present in the meeting room at the time of the actual voting can vote. One delegate from a council may not vote both his and the second delegate’s vote if the other delegate is absent. Are there any questions with regards to the policy which will be followed in connection with the elections? Deputy Hergott relinquished the gavel to Past State Deputy Lowery. Past State Deputy Lowery announced the current slate of officers: State Deputy Tony Hergott State Secretary Lou Gasper State Treasurer Mark Borytsky State Advocate Ken LeRoy State Warden Matt Richardson
District #1, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have ___2______. District #2, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have ___7______. District #3, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have ___3______. District #4, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have ___8______. District #5, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have ___4______. District #6, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have ___7______. District #7, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have ___2_____. District #8, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have ___3_____. District #9, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have ___6______. District #10, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __7______. District #11, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __3______. District #12, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __2 ______. District #13, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __6______. District #14, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __3______. District #15, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __5______. District #16, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __1______. District #17, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __5______. District #18, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __4______. District #19, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __8______. District #20, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __2______. District #21, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __3______. District #22, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __7______. District #23, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __6______. District #24, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __8______. District #25, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __6______. District #26, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __4______. District #27, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __0______. District #28, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __5______. District #29, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __3______. District #30, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __5______. District #31, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __6______. District #32, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __5______. District #33, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __8______. District #34, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __7______. District #35, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __6______. District #36, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __2______. District #37, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __5______. District #38, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __5______. District #39, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __6______. District #40, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __5______. District #41, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __4______. District #42, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __2______.
Deputy Hergott called for any unfinished business three times. Hearing none, he continued, “We will now proceed to the election of delegates to the Supreme Convention. This year it will be in St. Louis, Missouri.” Deputy Hergott continued, “We will now proceed with elections. Charter Constitution and Laws of the Order will be strictly observed during all elections today. Only Third Degree members may run for state office. Only one second to a nomination shall be accepted. Voting shall be written and be a roll call vote. Only those delegates present in the meeting room at the time of the actual voting can vote. One delegate from a council may not vote both his and the second delegate’s vote if the other delegate is absent. Are there any questions with regards to the policy which will be followed in connection with the elections?” Deputy Hergott announced that nominations were now open for the office of State Deputy. Council 3019 nominated Louis R. Gasper, Jr. for the office of State Deputy. Council 11001 seconded. Deputy Hergott announced two more times that nominations were open for the office of State Deputy. “Hearing no other nominations, is there a motion to close nominations for the office of State Deputy and accept Louis R. Gasper as the new State Deputy?” Council 1904 moved to close the nominations for the office of State Deputy and accept Louis R Gasper, Jr. as the State Deputy. “Is there a second?” Council 5383 seconded. Deputy Hergott called for a voice vote, all those in favor say yea, opposed nay. The motion carried. “Please welcome our new State Deputy Elect Lou Gasper.” State Deputy Elect Gasper acknowledged the gathering and thanked all for their support and pledged to work hard for our Order. Deputy Hergott announced that nominations were now open for the office of State Secretary. Council 6192 nominated Mark Borytsky for the office of State Secretary, Council 652 seconded. Deputy Hergott announced two more times that nominations were open for the office of State Secretary. “Hearing no other nominations is there a motion to close nominations for the office of State Secretary and accept Mark Borytsky as the State Secretary?” Council 2373 moved to close the nominations for the office of State Secretary and accept Mark Borytsky as State Secretary. “Is there a second?” Council 5383 seconded. Deputy Hergott called for a voice vote, “All those in favor say yea, opposed nay.” The motion carried. “Please welcome our new State Secretary Elect Mark Borytsky.” State Secretary Elect Borytsky acknowledged the gathering and thanked all for their support and pledged to work hard for our Order. Deputy Hergott announced that nominations were now open for the office of State Treasurer. Council 3720 nominated Matthew Richardson for the office of State Treasurer and Council 11001 seconded. Deputy Hergott announced two more times that nominations were open for the office of State Treasurer. “Hearing no other nominations, is there a motion to close nominations for the office of State Treasurer and accept Matthew Richardson as State Treasurer?” Council 10879 moved to close the nominations for the office of State Treasurer and accept Matthew Richardson as State Treasurer. “Is there a second?” Council 8625 seconded. Deputy Hergott called for a voice vote, “All those in favor say yea, opposed nay.” The motion carried. “Please welcome our new State Treasurer Elect Matt Richardson.” State Treasurer Elect Richardson acknowledged the gathering and thanked all for their support and pledged to work hard for our Order. Deputy Hergott announced that nominations were now open for the office of State Advocate. Council 10909 nominated John Svoboda for the office of State Advocate, Council 10795 seconded. Deputy Hergott announced two more times that nominations were open for the office of State Advocate. “Hearing no other nominations is there a motion to close nominations for the office of State Advocate and accept John Svoboda as the State Advocate?” Council 6429 moved to close the nominations for the office of State Advocate and accept John Svoboda as State Advocate. “Is there a second?” Council 11001 seconded. Deputy Hergott called for a voice vote, “All those in favor say yea, opposed nay.” The motion carried. “Please welcome our State Advocate Elect John Svoboda.” Advocate Elect John Svoboda acknowledged the gathering and thanked all for their support and pledged to work hard for our Order. Deputy Hergott announced that nominations were now open for the office of State Warden. Council 2681 nominated Robert Wolf for the office of State Warden, and Council 10285 seconded. Deputy Hergott announced two more times that nominations were open for the office of State Warden. “Hearing no other nominations is there a motion to close nominations for the office of State Warden and accept Robert Wolf as the State Warden?” Council 8579 moved to close the nominations for the office of State Warden and accept Robert Wolf as the State Warden. Is there a second? Council 1723 seconded. Deputy Hergott called for a voice vote, “All those in favor say yea, opposed nay.” The motion carried. “Please welcome our new State Warden Elect Bob Wolf.” State Warden Elect Wolf acknowledged the gathering and thanked all for their support and pledged to work hard for our Order. Deputy Hergott stated we will now proceed with the election of delegates to our annual meeting in St. Louis Missouri. In order that all may have a chance to attend a Supreme Convention, we have a gentleman’s agreement here in the State of Nebraska that we are elected only once in a lifetime. The laws of the Order, Section 27(2), provide the members and representatives to the Supreme Council meeting shall receive in lieu of expenses, mileage one way at the rate of thirty ($.30) cents per mile for the first 1500 miles and twenty ($.20) for each additional mile from the place of residence to the convention city. In addition, a delegate receives a per diem of $400 per day for each day he is in attendance at the meeting of the Supreme Council. From the total allowance for mileage and per diem, there will be deducted an amount of $75.00 which provides each delegate with one ticket for the States' Dinner, in addition to other mementos that are presented by the Supreme Council. Deputy Hergott reported that State Deputy Elect Gasper and he, as the Immediate Past State Deputy, were automatic delegates by virtue of their positions on the State Council. The Chair moved that Fr. Kenneth Borowiak, State Chaplain Designate be one of the delegates to the Supreme Convention. Council 11823 seconded. The motion passed. The Chair moved to have Executive Secretary Raymond Guggenberger elected as a delegate to the Supreme Convention. Council 5439 seconded. The motion passed. Deputy Hergott continued, “We have received 10 nominations at the close of the business meeting on April 29, and only 6 are needed. Deputy Hergott continued, “Does any nominee wish to remove his name from consideration?” Brother Knights Robert Daily from Council 3019 and Neil Risinger from Council 5315 withdrew their nominations. “At this time I will randomly call to the podium the nominee and their nominator. Each Brother Knight giving a nominating speech will be limited to three minutes. The nominees are: Harold Beebe – Council 1126 Richard Tvrdy – Council 1833 Peter Peil – Council 5383 James Hubschman – Council 10305 Allen Pfeifer – Council 8986 James Novacek – Council 1717 Mark Oseka – Council 5455 David Wiedel – Council 1904
The nomination speeches were completed.
Deputy Hergott directed Warden Richardson and his Assistant Wardens to distribute the delegate ballots to the voting members. The State Secretary shall announce the number of ballots for each district. As a reminder, each of the voting delegates is allowed only one ballot. Delegates must be present to vote. As your district is called; Warden Richardson will verify your ballot count and then place the ballots for your district in the box.
State Deputy Hergott Immediate Past Deputy Lowery State Chaplain Reverend Rooney State Secretary Gasper State Treasurer Borytsky State Warden Richardson
I will now conduct the roll by district. (Conducts the roll call by district.)
District #1, you have ___2___ votes. District #19, you have___ 8__ votes. District #2, you have ___7___ votes. District #20, you have ___2__ votes. District #3, you have ___3___ votes. District #21, you have ___3__ votes. District #4, you have ___8___ votes. District #22, you have ___7__ votes. District #5, you have ___4___ votes. District #23, you have ___6__ votes. District #6, you have ___7___ votes. District #24, you have ___8__ votes. District #7, you have ___2___ votes. District #25, you have ___6__ votes. District #8, you have ___3___ votes. District #26, you have ___4__ votes. District #9, you have ___6___ votes. District #27, you have ___0__ votes. District #10, you have __ 7___ votes. District #28, you have ___5__ votes. District #11, you have __ 3___ votes. District #29, you have ___4__ votes. District #12, you have __ 2___ votes. District #30, you have ___5__ votes. District #13, you have __ 6___ votes. District #31, you have ___6__ votes. District #14, you have __ 3___ votes. District #32, you have ___6__ votes. District #15, you have __ 5___ votes. District #33, you have ___8__ votes. District #16, you have __ 1___ votes. District #34, you have ___7__ votes. District #17, you have __ 5___ votes. District #35, you have ___6__ votes District #18, you have __ 4___ votes. District #36, you have ___2__ votes District #37, you have ___5__ votes District #40, you have __5___ votes District #38, you have ___5__ votes District #41, you have __4___ votes District #39, you have ___6__ votes District #42, you have __2___ votes
Warden Richard and the tellers, please retire from the chamber to count the ballots. I have appointed District Master Jim Haiar to be the official judge. Deputy Hergott continued, “During the Past State Deputies' annual breakfast, it was decided that PSD Richard Lowery would serve at alternate for Deputy Elect Gasper and PSD and Master James Haiar would serve as alternate for Immediate Past State Deputy Hergott. Deputy Hergott announced the delegates to the Supreme convention in St. Louis are:
DELEGATES: State Deputy Louis Gasper Immediate Past State Deputy Anthony Hergott Rev Kenneth Borowiak, State Chaplain Designate Raymond Guggenberger, Executive Secretary Richard Trvy – Council 1833 – Wahoo Peter J. Peil – Council 5383 – Osceola James Hubschman – Council 10305 – Fort Calhoun Allen M. Pfeifer – Council 8986 – Madison James Novacek – Council 1717 – David City David L. Wiedel – Council 1904 – Hebron
ALTERNATES: 1. Harold Beebe – Council 1126 – McCook 2. Mark Oseka – Council 5455 – Loup City
Deputy Hergott asked if there was any further business to come before this assembly. Hearing none, he continued and called on Supreme Director Michael Conrad for any closing remarks. Director Conrad thanked all for the great hospitality he received during his visit to his home State of Nebraska. He commented that “Nebraska has an enviable record of 36 years of continuous growth, keep up the hard work.” He stated that Director Tom Smith is a real Knight of Columbus success story. He urged us to continue to follow Supreme Knights Carl Anderson’s initiate of “Building the Domestic Church,” that this will help the Church become a smarter and stronger Church. Deputy Hergott called on State Squires Chairman David Marx for final remarks. Director Marx thanked all for the great support provided to the Squires, the future of the Knights of Columbus. Director Marx introduced the new State Circle Officers. He announced that Michael Montag is the new State Chief Squire. Deputy Hergott called on General Agent Kevin Pfiefer for any closing remarks. General Agent Pfiefer reminded us of the McGivney Foundation; it is the future of the charitable work of the Nebraska State Council. He thanked all for their support and promised that the three insurance agencies would ensure that any council meeting their membership quota would also meet their insurance quota to earn Star Council. Deputy Hergott called on Director Wolf. Director Wolf thanked all for the great weekend and he looked forward to the coming year as your State Warden. He continued that he would soon be contacting the Supreme Council Service Award winners to work with them on their nomination package for Supreme. Director Wolf thanked all his directors and chairmen and particularly noted how supportive the staff of the Younes Conference Center was in helping to ensure the success of our convention. Deputy Hergott called on Director Ostdiek. Director Ostdiek reminded us that there are two more months to go and to keep recruiting. “We are within reach of achieving the Circle of Honor for Nebraska.” He acknowledged the hard work of the Regional Membership Chairmen.
Deputy Hergott called on Executive Secretary Guggenberger. Executive Secretary Guggenberger congratulated the incoming officers and pledged his support to them as they lead our state. He reminded all of the upcoming reports that are due to Supreme Council; the Columbian Award, the Support of Vocations Award, the Report of Officers and the Report of Service Personnel. He also stated that the next Semi-Annual Report of Audit for the period ending June 30 would be due by August 15. Secretary Guggenberger continued that letters would soon come out asking for directory updates. He continued, “Remember, I do not know if you have no changes unless you tell me.” Executive Secretary Guggenberger continued with a review of our morning email prayer chain. Nebraska has a powerful tool in this morning request for prayers. He encouraged all Grand Knights and Financial Secretaries to forward on this daily request to the members of their council. Deputy Hergott called on District Master Jim Haiar for any comments. Master Haiar reminded us that there are two Exemplifications, May 7 in Lincoln and June 25 in Omaha. Deputy Hergott called on Warden Richardson for closing remarks. Warden Richardson thanked all for coming and said it was a great weekend. He was grateful for the continued support with his election as Treasurer. He noted the success of our annual sweepstakes and that the seminarians in Nebraska are the direct beneficiaries of the funds raised. He reminded his Assistant Wardens to turn in their badges to him prior to leaving. Deputy Hergott called on State Advocate Elect John Svoboda. Advocate Svoboda again thanked all for the confidence that the gathering provided. He has big shoes to fill and hopes to continue the legacy of service to the Nebraska Knights of Columbus. Deputy Hergott called on State Treasurer Borytsky. Treasurer Borytsky thanked all for the vote of confidence and promised to work hard for our Order as our State Secretary. He announced that after the meeting was adjourned he would pass out delegate checks in district order and requested the District Deputy come forward at that time to receive their districts checks. Deputy Hergott called on Secretary Gasper for closing remarks. Secretary Gasper thanked all for the support and the vote of confidence as he assumes the office of State Deputy. He thanked his father in particular for asking him to join the Knights of Columbus 30 years ago. Deputy Hergott called on Immediate Past State Deputy Lowery for any closing remarks. Deputy Lowery wished all a safe journey home. Deputy Hergott called on State Chaplain Designate Rev. Kenneth Borowiak. Rev. Borowiak stated he has been a Knight for over 30 years, and he expressed great confidence in the leadership of the State Officers. He has learned as a priest and pastor that the Knights never say no. Deputy Hergott called on Chaplain Rev. Rooney. Rev. Rooney said he was grateful for the opportunity to service. He recalled how he called the Supreme Council and asked for a council in his parish and was amazed at how fast all parties involved responded. His parish is stronger because of the council. It had a positive impact on the parish. Deputy Hergott thanks all for a great convention. He thanked all for their support and noted that Nebraska grew by almost 1,000 new members this fraternal year. He thanks his fellow officer sand the support staff for their hard work and made a special thank you to his home Council 12086, Columbus. District Deputies will now be given their mileage and per diem check for the delegates within their district. Delegates elected to attend the Supreme Convention in St. Louis, please remain in the chamber after the close to receive registration information. This meeting of the 112th Annual Nebraska State Convention is now adjourned at 11:45 A.M. Respectfully submitted, Ray Guggenberger, Executive Secretary Convention Recorder APPENDICES
A – Audit State Council
B – Audit Culture of Life Foundation
C – Audit Intellectual Disabilities Foundation
D - Audit McGivney Foundation
E – Resolutions passed at this Convention
F – Listing of Past State Deputies and Chaplains KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS NEBRASKA STATE COUNCIL
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
CASH BASIS
JUNE 30, 2017 AND 2016 KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS NEBRASKA STATE COUNCIL TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT 1-2
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Statements of Assets, Liabilities, and Net Assets - Cash Basis 3 Statements of Revenues, Expenses, and Changes in Net Assets - Cash Basis 4
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 5-7
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION Schedules of Program Service Expenses - Cash Basis (Unaudited) 8 -9 DANA F.COLE & COMPANYLLP • CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS
INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT
To the State Officers and Directors Knights of Columbus Nebraska State Council Bellevue, Nebraska
We have audited the accompanying financial statements of Knights of Columbus Nebraska State Council (a nonprofit organization), which comprise the statements of assets, liabilities, and net assets - cash basis for the years ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, and the related statements of rev enues, expenses, and changes in net assets - cash basis for the years then ended, and the related notes to the financial statements.
Management's Responsibility for the Financial Statements
Management is responsible for the preparation and fair presentation of these financial statements in accordance with the cash basis of accounting as described in Note 1; this includes determining that the cash basis of accounting is an acceptable basis for the preparation of the financial state ments in the circumstances. Management is also responsible for the design, implementation, and maintenance of internal control relevant to the preparation and fair presentation of financial state ments that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.
Auditors' Responsibility
Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits. We conducted our audits in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the United States of America. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assur ance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement.
An audit involves performing procedures to obtain audit evidence about the amounts and disclo sures in the financial statements. The procedures selected depend on the auditor's judgment, in cluding the assessment of the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to fraud or error. In making those risk assessments, the auditor considers internal control rele vant to the entity's preparation and fair presentation of the financial statements in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the entity's internal control. Accordingly, we express no such opinion. An audit also includes evaluating the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasona bleness of significant accounting estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements.
We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our audit opinion.
1 Opinion
In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the assets, liabilities, and net assets of Knights of Columbus Nebraska State Council as of June 30, 2017 and 2016, and its revenues and expenses for the years then ended in accordance with the cash basis of accounting as described in Note 1.
Basis of Accounting
We draw attention to Note 1 of the financial statements, which describes the basis of accounting. The financial statements are prepared on the cash basis of accounting, which is a basis of accounting other than accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Our opinion is not modified with respect to that matter.
Other Matter
Our audit was conducted for the purpose of forming an opinion on the financial statements as a whole. The schedule of program service expenses - cash basis on pages 8 - 9 is presented for pur poses of additional analysis and is not a required part of the financial statements. Such information has not been subjected to the auditing procedures applied in the audit of the basic financial state ments, and accordingly, we do not express an opinion or provide any assurance on it.
Lincoln, Nebraska October 9, 2017
2 KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS NEBRASKA STATE COUNCIL STATEMENTS OF ASSETS, LIABILITIES, AND NET ASSETS CASH BASIS JUNE 30, 2017 AND 2016
ASSETS 2017 2016 ASSETS Current Assets Checking - FNB Omaha - General 138,678 105,970 Checking- FNB Omaha - Disaster 8,197 10,397 Checking - FNB Omaha - Lottery 41,554 37,071 Checking - FNB Omaha - Squires 4,238 Endowment Fund - K of C Charities, Inc. 123,845 123,845 Endowment Fund - Kearney Community Foundation 419,138
TOTAL ASSETS 312,274 700,659
LIABILITIES AND NET ASSETS
LIABILITIES - 0 - - 0-
NET ASSETS Unrestricted 188,429 157 ,676 Permanently restricted 123,845 542,983 Total net assets 312,27 4 700,659
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND NET ASSETS 312,27 4 700,659
See accompanying notes to financial statements.
3 KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS NEBRASKA STATE COUNCIL STATEMENTS OF REVENUES, EXPENSES, AND CHANGES IN NET ASSETS CASH BASIS FOR THE YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2017 AND 2016
2017 2016 CHANGES IN UNRESTRICTED NET ASSETS REVENUES Per capita - State Council 208,878 194,086 State meetings - meals 7,964 4,794 Income from sports activities 2,790 3,600 Income from Christmas cards 7,447 6,789 Sweepstakes income 25,430 25,731 State Convention meals sold 36,209 35,678 State Convention - other income 3,635 3,270 Donations - outside causes 9,827 8,648 Donations - disaster relief 1,000 State Squires income 8,052 6,748 Reimbursements 6,507 11,400 Miscellaneous income 3,844 5,353 Exemplification fees 3,670 5,388 Net assets released from restrictions 7,012 7,369 Total support and revenues 332,265 318,854
EXPENSES 301,511 289,219
CHANGE IN UNRESTRICTED NET ASSETS 30,754 29,635
CHANGES IN PERMANENTLY RESTRICTED NET ASSETS Donations received 6,473 39,836 Investment income 10,407 4,752 Net assets released from restrictions (7,012) (7,369) Transfer of permanently restricted net assets to McGivney Foundation (429,007)
CHANGE IN PERMANENTLY RESTRICTED NET ASSETS (419,139) 37,219
CHANGE IN NET ASSETS (388,385) 66,854
NET ASSETS, beginning of year 700,659 633,805
NET ASSETS, end of year 312,274 700,659
See accompanying notes to financial statements.
4 KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS NEBRASKA STATE COUNCIL NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTE 1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Nature of Organization
Knights of Columbus Nebraska State Council (the Council) is a Nebraska not-for-profit fraternal organization exempt from federal income tax under Section 501(c)(8) of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code. The Council commenced operations in 1902 and operates as a subordinate state organization of the national organization located in New Haven, Connecticut, known as the Knights of Columbus Supreme Council. The Council is com posed of Catholic men dedicated to the principles of charity, unity, fraternity, patriotism, and religious vocation. Its support comes primarily from local councils across Nebraska in addition to revenues generated from an annual convention and various donations. The Council fulfills its exempt purpose by providing financial assistance, organizing events, and providing services related to its mission.
Basis of Accounting
The Council prepares its financial statements on the cash basis; consequently, these statements represent a summary of the cash activity of the Council and do not include cer tain transactions that would be included if the Council prepared its financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America, as applicable to nonprofit organizations. Under the cash basis, revenues are recognized when collected rather than when earned, and expenses are recognized when paid rather than when incurred. Consequently, these financial statements are not intended to present financial position or results of operations in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America, as applicable to nonprofit organizations.
Financial Statement Presentation
Financial statement presentation follows the recommendations of the FASB ASC 958-205, Financial Statements of Not-for-Profit Organizations. Under this standard, the Council is required to report information regarding its financial position and activities according to three classes of net assets: unrestricted net assets, temporarily restricted net assets, and permanently restricted net assets.
Unrestricted Net Assets
Revenues are reported as increases in unrestricted net assets unless use of the related assets is limited by donor-imposed restrictions. Expenses are reported as decreases in unrestricted net assets. Gains or losses on investments and any other assets or liabili ties are reported as increases in unrestricted net assets unless their use is limited by donor stipulation or by laws.
5 KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS NEBRASKA STATE COUNCIL NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTE 1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued)
Financial Statement Presentation (Continued)
Temporarily Restricted Net Assets
Temporarily restricted net assets include gifts for which donor-imposed restrictions have not been met, trust activity, deferred gifts, and pledges receivable for which the ultimate purpose of the proceeds is not permanently restricted or determined.
There were no temporarily restricted net assets as of June 30, 2017 and 2016.
Permanently Restricted Net Assets
Permanently restricted net assets include gifts, trusts, and pledges receivable which require by donor restriction that the corpus be invested in perpetuity and only the in come be made available for program operations in accordance with donor restrictions.
Use of Estimates
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with the cash basis of accounting used by the Council requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect certain reported amounts and disclosures; accordingly, actual results could differ from those estimates.
Investments
Investments are recorded at cost basis as provided by the custodians of each endowment.
Income Taxes
Under Section 501(c)(8) of the Internal Revenue Code, the Council is exempt from federal income tax on all income except unrelated business income as noted under Section 511 of the Internal Revenue Code. Internal Revenue Code Section 513(a) defines an unrelat ed trade or business of an exempt organization as any trade or business which is not sub stantially related to the exercise or performance of its exempt purpose.
The Council utilizes the provisions of FASB ASC 7 40-10, Accounting for Uncertain Tax Posi tions. The Council continually evaluates expiring statutes of limitations, audits, proposed settlements, changes in tax law and new authoritative rulings. The Council believes that it has appropriate support for any tax positions taken, and as such, does not have any uncer tain tax positions that would be material to the financial statements.
6 KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS NEBRASKA STATE COUNCIL NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTE 2. RESTRICTED NET ASSETS
The Council had no temporarily restricted net assets as of June 30, 2017 and 2016.
Permanently restricted net assets are restricted endowments for grants to charitable pro jects and programs, and for the benefit of the Council in fulfilling its mission, in which the principal is invested in perpetuity. Permanently restricted net assets were $123,845 and $542,983 as qf June 30, 2017 and 2016, respectively.
In May 2016, the State Officers and Directors of the Council created a new entity called the Nebraska State Council McGivney Foundation. The new Foundation has been deter mined to be exempt under IRC Section 501(c)(3) and will be under common control of the Council. During the year ended June 30, 2017, the Council's State Officers and Di rectors have transferred permanently restricted funds, which had been held at the Kearney Area Community Foundation, to the McGivney Foundation. The total amount that was transferred to the McGivney Foundation was $429,007.
NOTE 3. SUBSEQUENT EVENTS
In preparing the financial statements, the Council has evaluated events and transactions for potential recognition or disclosure through October 9, 2017, the date the financial statements were available to be issued.
7 SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS NEBRASKA STATE COUNCIL SCHEDULES OF PROGRAM SERVICE EXPENSES CASH BASIS (UNAUDITED) FOR THE YEARS ENDED JUNE 30, 2017 AND 2016
2017 2016
Cost of sales - Christmas cards 6,666 6,320 State shirts and pins 3,500 7,322 Courier expenses 33,459 24,975 DD expenses - meals 7 DD expenses - mileage and per diem 134 Bereavement expense 893 958 Membership expense - meals 59 64 Membership expense - mileage and per diem 907 564 Membership expense - other 6 187 Membership promotion 4,652 4,420 Vocational gifts 3,415 3,500 Donations to outside causes 17,530 8,814 New Council Development 60 296 Professional fees 4,275 3,860 Insurance 1,011 540 Mid-summer meeting - meals 5,806 5,619 Mid-summer meeting- mileage and per diem 3,400 4,271 Mid-summer meeting - lodging 6,354 5,922 Mid-summer meeting - other 2,942 1,220 Mid-winter meeting- meals 5,007 3,991 Mid-winter meeting- mileage and per diem 2,906 2,221 Mid-winter meeting- lodging 4,494 6,433 Mid-winter meeting - other 1,482 169 Special projects 2,000 State Convention - meals 41,851 48,103 State Convention - mileage and per diem 29,245 28,634 State Convention - lodging 17,671 19,462 State Convention - other 5,345 8,769 State meetings - meals 569 930 State meetings - mileage and per diem 734 387 State meetings - lodging 209 670 State meetings - other 106 291 Sports activities 2,366 3,499 State Program Director - meals 35 State Program Director - mileage and per diem 397 686 State Program Director- lodging 335 184 State Officer expense - meals 4,516 1,897
8 KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS NEBRASKA STATE COUNCIL SCHEDULES OF PROGRAM SERVICE EXPENSES CASH BASIS (UNAUDITED) FOR THE YEARS ENDED JUNE 30, 2017 AND 2016
2017 2016
State Officer expense - mileage and per diem 490 760 State Officer expense - lodging 233 137 State Officer expense - other 4,591 3,855 Executive Secretary contract 900 1,350 State Retreat 251 Stationery, printing, and processing 4,389 3,338 Bank charges 1,040 Subscriptions and dues 1,142 254 Sup. Convention expense - meals 2,539 2,505 Sup. Convention expense - other 150 24 Trophies and awards 15,403 11,900 Operating supplies 2,978 1,456 Postage 12,467 13,254 Investment fees 7,012 7,369 Miscellaneous expense 469 3,720 Second Degree Teams expense 1,778 536 Third Degree Team expenses 2,001 2,062 Catholic Education 49 License and permits 170 Printing 519 398 Seminarian and religious donations 15,000 17,955 State Lottery taxes 515 450 State Squires expense 9,512 6,787 Sweepstakes winners 4,750 4,750 Total program service expenses 301,511 289,219
9 KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS CULTURE OF LIFE FOUNDATION OF NEBRASKA, INC.
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
CASH BASIS
JUNE 30, 2017 AND 2016 KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS CULTURE OF LIFE FOUNDATION OF NEBRASKA, INC. TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT 1-2
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Statements of Assets, Liabilities, and Net Assets - Cash Basis 3 Statements of Revenues, Expenses, and Changes in Net Assets - Cash Basis 4
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 5-6
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION Schedules of Program Service Expenses - Cash Basis (Unaudited) 7 DANA F.COLE & COMPANYLLP CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS
INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT
To the State Officers and Directors Knights of Columbus Culture of Life Foundation of Nebraska, Inc. Bellevue, Nebraska
We have audited the accompanying financial statements of Knights of Columbus Culture of Life Foundation of Nebraska, Inc. (a nonprofit organization), which comprise the statements of assets, liabilities, and net assets - cash basis for the years ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, and the related statements of revenue, expenses, and changes in net assets - cash basis for the years then ended, and the related notes to the financial statements.
Management's Responsibility for the Financial Statements
Management is responsible for the preparation and fair presentation of these financial statements in accordance with the cash basis of accounting as described in Note 1; this includes determining that the cash basis of accounting is an acceptable basis for the preparation of the financial state ments in the circumstances. Management is also responsible for the design, implementation, and maintenance of internal control relevant to the preparation and fair presentation of financial state ments that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.
Auditors' Responsibility
Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits. We conducted our audits in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in. the United States of America. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assur ance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement.
An audit involves performing procedures to obtain audit evidence about the amounts and disclo sures in the financial statements. The procedures selected depend on the auditor's judgment, in cluding the assessment of the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to fraud or error. In making those risk assessments, the auditor considers internal control rele vant to the entity's preparation and fair presentation of the financial statements in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the entity's internal control. Accordingly, we express no such opinion. An audit also includes evaluating the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasona bleness of significant accounting estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements.
We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our audit opinion.
1 Opinion
In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the assets, liabilities, and net assets of Knights of Columbus Culture of Life Foundation of Nebraska, Inc., as of June 30, 2017 and 2016, and its revenues and expenses for the years then ended in accord ance with the cash basis of accounting as described in Note 1.
Basis of Accounting
We draw attention to Note 1 of the financial statements, which describes the basis of accounting. The financial statements are prepared on the cash basis of accounting, which is a basis of accounting other than accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Our opinion is not modified with respect to that matter.
Other Matter
Our audit was conducted for the purpose of forming an opinion on the financial statements as a whole. The schedules of program service expenses - cash basis on page 7 are presented for purposes of addi tional analysis and are not a required part of the financial statements. Such information has not been subjected to the auditing procedures applied in the audit of the basic financial statements, and accord ingly, we do not express an opinion or provide any assurance on them.
Lincoln, Nebraska October 9, 2017
2 KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS CULTURE OF LIFE FOUNDATION OF NEBRASKA, INC. STATEMENTS OF ASSETS, LIABILITIES, AND NET ASSETS CASH BASIS JUNE 30, 2017 AND 2016
ASSETS 2017 2016 ASSETS Cash - FNB Omaha 166,656 128,361
LIABILITIES AND NET ASSETS
LIABILITIES - 0 - - 0 -
NET ASSETS Unrestricted 166,656 128,361
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND NET ASSETS 166,656 128,361
See accompanying notes to financial statements.
3 KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS CULTURE OF LIFE FOUNDATION OF NEBRASKA, INC. STATEMENTS OF REVENUES, EXPENSES, AND CHANGES IN NET ASSETS CASH BASIS FOR THE YEARS ENDED JUNE 30, 2017 AND 2016
2017 2016 REVENUES Buck-A-Month 25,180 27,219 One-Rose One-Life Division 0 856 1,759 One-Rose One-Life Division I 18,758 16,289 One-Rose One-Life Division II 25,381 22,519 One-Rose One-Life Division 111 41,214 33,256 One-Rose One-Life Division IV 55,981 53,647 Ultrasound fund 63,799 18,369 Other income 3,645 1,263 Total unrestricted support and revenue 234,814 174,321
EXPENSES Program services 196,519 171,093
CHANGE IN NET ASSETS 38,295 3,228
NET ASSETS, beginning of year 128,361 125,133
NET ASSETS, end of year 166,656 128,361
See accompanying notes to financial statements.
4 KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS CULTURE OF LIFE FOUNDATION OF NEBRASKA, INC. NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTE 1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Nature of Organization
Knights of Columbus Culture of Life Foundation of Nebraska, Inc. (the Foundation) was created as a nonprofit corporation on August 15, 1977. The purpose of the Foundation is to support "right to life" initiatives throughout the State of Nebraska. The Foundation provides various organizations with grants in order to promote education to the public about "right to life" issues and various related matters, such as unwanted pregnancies, adoption, assistance to unwed mothers, and the fight against cloning and human embryo research. The Foundation's support comes primarily from individual donors of the gen eral public and grants from public charities.
Basis of Accounting
The Foundation prepares its financial statements on the cash basis; consequently, these statements represent a summary of the cash activity of the Foundation and do not include certain transactions that would be included if the Foundation prepared its financial state ments in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America, as applicable to nonprofit organizations. Under the cash basis, revenues are rec ognized when collected rather than when earned, and expenses are recognized when paid rather than when incurred. Consequently, these financial statements are not intended to present financial position or results of operations in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America, as applicable to nonprofit organiza tions.
Financial Statement Presentation
Financial statement presentation follows the recommendations of the FASB ASC 958-205, Financial Statements of Not-for-Profit Organizations. Under this standard, the Foundation is required to report information regarding its financial position and activities according to three classes of net assets: unrestricted net assets, temporarily restricted net assets, and permanently restricted net assets.
Unrestricted Net Assets
Revenues are reported as increases in unrestricted net assets unless use of the relat ed assets is limited by donor-imposed restrictions. Expenses are reported as decreas es in unrestricted net assets. Gains or losses on investments and any other assets or liabilities are reported as increases in unrestricted net assets unless their use is limited by donor stipulation or by laws.
Temporarily Restricted Net Assets
Temporarily restricted net assets include gifts for which donor-imposed restrictions have not been met, trust activity, deferred gifts, and pledges receivable for which the ultimate purpose of the proceeds is not permanently restricted or determined.
5 KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS CULTURE OF LIFE FOUNDATION OF NEBRASKA, INC. NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTE 1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued)
Financial Statement Presentation (Continued)
Permanently Restricted Net Assets
Permanently restricted net assets include gifts, trusts, and pledges receivable which require by donor restriction that the corpus be invested in perpetuity and only the in come be made available for program operations in accordance with dohor.
There were no temporarily or permanently restricted net assets as of June 30, 2017 and 2016.
Advertising
Advertising costs were expensed as disbursed. The advertising expense for the years ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, were $1,100 and $1,100, respectively.
Use of Estimates
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with the cash basis of accounting used by the Foundation requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect certain reported amounts and disclosures; accordingly, actual results could differ from those estimates.
Income Taxes
The Foundation is exempt from federal income tax under Section 501(c)(3) of the Inter nal Revenue Code. However, income from certain activities not directly related to the Foundation's tax-exempt purpose is subject to taxation as unrelated business income
The Foundation utilizes the provisions of FASS ASC 740-10, Accounting for Uncertain Tax Positions. The Foundation continually evaluates expiring statutes of limitations, audits, proposed settlements, changes in tax law and new authoritative rulings. The Foundation believes that it has appropriate support for any tax positions taken, and as such, does not have any uncertain tax positions that would be material to the financial statements.
NOTE 2. SUBSEQUENT EVENTS
In preparing the financial statements, the Foundation has evaluated events and transac tions for potential recognition or disclosure through October 9, 2017, the date the financial statements were available to be issued.
6 SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS CULTURE OF LIFE FOUNDATION OF NEBRASKA, INC. SCHEDULES OF PROGRAM SERVICE EXPENSES - CASH BASIS (UNAUDITED) FOR THE YEARS ENDED JUNE 30, 2017 AND 2016
2017 2016
Advertising 1,100 1,100 Buck-A-Month refunds 15,629 12,619 Bishops Pastoral Plan 18,000 Pro-Life organization support 36,400 52,000 Human Needs 26,500 Mileage and expenses 752 883 Lodging 829 813 Office supplies 133 189 One-Rose One-Life Expenses 7,954 8,259 Professional fees 2,900 2,142 Pro-Life Art Contest Supporting School 1,250 1,250 Pro-Life essay 1,500 1,500 Pro-Life special events 14,650 11,200 Pro-Life march 19,000 15,000 Requestfor funds 1,925 900 Ultrasound 74,497 36,738 Total program service expenses 196,519 171,093
7 KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS INTELLECTUAL DISABILITIES FOUNDATION OF NEBRASKA, INC.
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
CASH BASIS
JUNE 30, 2017 AND 2016 KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS INTELLECTUAL DISABILITIES FOUNDATION OF NEBRASKA, INC. TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT 1-2
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Statements of Assets, Liabilities, and Net Assets - Cash Basis 3 Statements of Revenues, Expenses, and Changes in Net Assets - Cash Basis 4
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 5-6
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION Schedules of Program Service Expenses -Cash Basis (Unaudited) 7 DANA F.COLE & COMPANYLLP CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS
INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT
To the State Officers and Directors Knights of Columbus Intellectual Disabilities Foundation of Nebraska, Inc. Bellevue, Nebraska
We have audited the accompanying financial statements of Knights of Columbus Intellectual Disabili ties Foundation of Nebraska, Inc. (a nonprofit organization), which comprise the statements of assets, liabilities, and net assets - cash basis for the years ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, and the related statements of revenues, expenses, and changes in net assets -cash basis for the years then ended, and the related notes to the financial statements.
Management's Responsibility for the Financial Statements
Management is responsible for the preparation and fair presentation of these financial statements in accordance with the cash basis of accounting as described in Note 1; this includes determining that the cash basis of accounting is an acceptable basis for the preparation of the financial statements in the circumstances. Management is also responsible for the design, implementation, and maintenance of internal control relevant to the preparation and fair presentation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.
Auditors' Responsibility
Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits. We conducted our audits in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the United States of America. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assur ance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement.
An audit involves performing procedures to obtain audit evidence about the amounts and disclo sures in the financial statements. The procedures selected depend on the auditor's judgment, in cluding the assessment of the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to fraud or error. In making those risk assessments, the auditor considers internal control rele vant to the entity's preparation and fair presentation of the financial statements in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the entity's internal control. Accordingly, we express no such opinion. An audit also includes evaluating the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasona bleness of significant accounting estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements.
We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our audit opinion.
1 Opinion
In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the assets, liabilities, and net assets of Knights of Columbus Intellectual Disabilities Foundation of Ne braska, Inc., as of June 30, 2017 and 2016, and its revenues and expenses for the years then ended in accordance with the cash basis of accounting as described in Note 1.
Basis of Accounting
We draw attention to Note 1 of the financial statements, which describes the basis of accounting. The financial statements are prepared on the cash basis of accounting, which is a basis of accounting other than accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Our opinion is not modified with respect to that matter.
Other Matter
Our audit was conducted for the purpose of forming an opinion on the financial statements as a whole. The schedules of program service expenses -cash basis on page 7 are presented for purposes of addi tional analysis and are not a required part of the financial statements. Such information has not been subjected to the auditing procedures applied in the audit of the basic financial statements, and accord ingly, we do not express an opinion or provide any assurance on them.
Lincoln, Nebraska October 9, 2017
2 KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS . INTELLECTUAL DISABILITIES FOUNDATION OF NEBRASKA, INC. STATEMENTS OF ASSETS, LIABILITIES, AND NET ASSETS CASH BASIS JUNE 30, 2017 AND 2016
ASSETS 2017 2016 ASSETS Cash -State Nebraska Bank & Trust 42,229 75,559
LIABILITIES AND NET ASSETS
LIABILITIES -0 - -0-
NET ASSETS Unrestricted 42,229 75,559
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND NET ASSETS 42,229 75,559
See accompanying notes to financial statements.
3 KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS INTELLECTUAL DISABILITIES FOUNDATION OF NEBRASKA, INC. STATEMENTS OF REVENUES, EXPENSES, AND CHANGES IN NET ASSETS CASH BASIS FOR THE YEARS ENDED JUNE 30, 2017 AND 2016
2017 2016
REVENUES Tootsie Roll Drive 175,469 184,869 Miscellaneous income 5,509 1,097
Total revenues 180,978 185,966
EXPENSES Program services 214,308 184,585
CHANGE IN NET ASSETS (33,330) 1,381
NET ASSETS, beginning of year 75,559 74,178
NET ASSETS, end of year 42,229 75,559
See accompanying notes to financial statements.
4 KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS· INTELLECTUAL DISABILITIES FOUNDATION OF NEBRASKA, INC. NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTE 1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Nature of Organization
Knights of Columbus Intellectual Disabilities Foundation of Nebraska, Inc. (the Founda tion) is a Nebraska nonprofit corporation that was established on November 12, 1975. Its purpose is to provide assistance to organizations, schools, and groups throughout the State of Nebraska who work with individuals facing intellectual disabilities. The Founda tion's support comes primarily from individual donors of the general public.
Basis of Accounting
The Foundation prepares its financial statements on the cash basis; consequently, these statements represent a summary of the cash activity of the Foundation and do not include certain transactions that would be included if the Foundation prepared its financial state ments in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America, as applicable to nonprofit organizations. Under the cash basis, revenues are rec ognized when collected rather than when earned , and expenses are recognized when paid rather than when incurred. Consequently, these financial statements are not intended to present financial position or results of operations in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America, as applicable to nonprofit organiza tions.
Financial Statement Presentation
Financial statement presentation follows the recommendations of the FASB ASC 958-205 Financial Statements of Not-for-Profit Organizations. Under this standard, the Foundation is required to report information regarding its financial position and activities according to three classes of net assets: unrestricted net assets, temporarily restricted net assets, and permanently restricted net assets.
Unrestricted Net Assets
Revenues are reported as increases in unrestricted net assets unless use of the related assets is limited by donor-i mposed restrictions. Expenses are reported as decreases in unrestricted net assets. Gains or losses on investments and any other assets or liabili ties are reported as increases in unrestricted net assets unless their use is limited by donor stipulation or by laws.
Temporarily Restricted Net Assets
Temporarily restricted net assets include gifts for which donor-imposed restrictions have not been met, trust activity, deferred gifts, and pledges receivable for which the ultimate purpose of the proceeds is not permanently restricted or determined.
5 KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS INTELLECTUAL DISABILITIES FOUNDATION OF NEBRASKA, INC. NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTE 1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued)
Financial Statement Presentation (Continued)
Permanently Restricted Net Assets
Permanently restricted net assets include gifts, trusts, and pledges receivable which require by donor restriction that the corpus be invested in perpetuity and only the in come be made available for program operations in accordance with donor.
There were no temporarily or permanently restricted net assets as of June 30, 2017 and 2016.
Use of Estimates
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with the cash basis of accounting used by the Foundation requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect certain reported amounts and disclosures; accordingly, actual results could differ from those estimates.
Income Taxes
The Foundation is exempt from federal income tax under Section 501(c)(3) of the Inter nal Revenue Code. However, income from certain activities not directly related to the Foundation's tax-exempt purpose is subject to taxation as unrelated business income
The Foundation utilizes the provisions of FASB ASC 7 40-10, Accounting for Uncertain Tax Positions. The Foundation continually evaluates expiring statutes of limitations, audits, proposed settlements, changes in tax law and new authoritative rulings. The Foundation believes that it has appropriate support for any tax positions taken, and as such, does not have any uncertain tax positions that would be material to the financial statements.
NOTE 2. SUBSEQUENT EVENTS
In preparing the financial statements, the Foundation has evaluated events and transac tions for potential recognition or disclosure through October 9, 2017, the date the financial statements were available to be issued.
6 SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS INTELLECTUAL DISABILITIES FOUNDATION OF NEBRASKA, INC. SCHEDULES OF PROGRAM SERVICE EXPENSES CASH BASIS (UNAUDITED) FOR THE YEARS ENDED JUNE 30, 2017 AND 2016
2017 2016
ARC 28,666 23,110 Mosaic 22,321 25,676 Madonna School 36,105 31,333 Miscellaneous donations 28,779 17,512 Ollie Webb Center 1,162 2,189 Parish 3,922 3,948 People First 923 403 Smiles, Inc. 8,475 10,863 Special Olympics 47,123 34,665 Villa Marie School 32,859 31,656 Fees and charges 25 177 Meeting expenses 250 Professional fees 2,550 1,792 Travel expense 1,148 411 SWATS 850 Total program service expenses 214,308 184,585
7 NEBRASKA STATE COUNCIL McGIVNEY FOUNDATION
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
MODIFIED CASH BASIS
JUNE 30, 2017 NEBRASKA STATE COUNCIL McGIVNEY FOUNDATION TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT 1-2
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Statement of Assets, Liabilities, and Net Assets - Modified Cash Basis 3 Statement of Revenues, Expenses, and Other Changes in Net Assets - Modified Cash Basis 4
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 5-11 DANA F. COLE & COMPANYLLP CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS
INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT
To the Board of Directors Nebraska State Council McGivney Foundation Bellevue, Nebraska
We have audited the accompanying financial statements of Nebraska State Council McGivney Foun dation (a nonprofit organization), which comprise the statement of assets, liabilities, and net assets - modified cash basis as of June 30, 2017, and the related statement of revenues, expenses, and other changes in net assets - modified cash basis for the years then ended, and the related notes to the financial statements.
Management's Responsibility for the Financial Statements
Management is responsible for the preparation and fair presentation of these financial statements in accordance with the modified cash basis of accounting as described in Note 1; this includes de termining that the modified cash basis of accounting is an acceptable basis for the preparation of the financial statements in the circumstances. Management is also responsible for the design, im plementation, and maintenance of internal control relevant to the preparation and fair presentation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.
Auditors' Responsibility
Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audit. We conducted our audit in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the United States of America. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assur ance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement.
An audit involves performing procedures to obtain audit evidence about the amounts and disclo sures in the financial statements. The procedures selected depend on the auditor's judgment, in cluding the assessment of the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to fraud or error. In making those risk assessments, the auditor considers internal control rele vant to the entity's preparation and fair presentation of the financial statements in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectivenessof the entity's internal control. Accordingly, we express no such opinion. An audit also includes evaluating the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasona bleness of significant accounting estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements.
We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our audit opinion.
1 Opinion
In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the assets, liabilities, and net assets of Nebraska State Council McGivney Foundation, as of June 30, 2017, and its revenue and expenses for the year then ended in accordance with the modified cash basis of accounting as described in Note 1.
Basis of Accounting
We draw attention to Note 1 of the financial statements, which describes the basis of accounting. The financial statements are prepared on the modified cash basis of accounting, which is a basis of accounting other than accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Our opinion is not modified with respect to that matter.
Lincoln, Nebraska October 9, 2017
2 NEBRASKA STATE COUNCIL McGIVNEY FOUNDATION STATEMENT OF ASSETS, LIABILITIES, AND NET ASSETS MODIFIED CASH BASIS JUNE 30, 2017
ASSETS
ASSETS Cash 9,556 Investments 493,009 Cash value - life insurance policies (net of policy loans of $209 in 2017) 47,134
TOTAL ASSETS 549,699
LIABILITIES AND NET ASSETS
LIABILITIES -0-
NET ASSETS Unrestricted 9,556 Temporarily restricted 33,072 Permanently restricted 507,071 Total net assets 549,699
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND NET ASSETS 549,699
See accompanying notes to financial statements.
3 NEBRASKA STATE COUNCIL McGIVNEY FOUNDATION STATEMENT OF REVENUES, EXPENSES, AND OTHER CHANGES IN NET ASSETS MODIFIED CASH BASIS FOR THE YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2017
2017 Temporarily Permanently Unrestricted Restricted Restricted Total REVENUES Contributions 2,319 42,570 44,889 Dividends and interest, 89 38,628 38,717 Increase in cash value of life insurance 4,662 4,662 Net assets released from restrictions 5,556 (5,556) Total receipts and other support 7,964 33,072 47,232 88,268
EXPENSES Grants 6,000 6,000 Investment management fees 5,556 5,556 Life insurance premiums 2,319 2,319 Operating expenses 1,056 1,056 Total disbursements 14,931 14,931
CHANGE IN NET ASSETS (6,967) 33,072 47,232 73,337
NET ASSETS, beginning of year 496 496
TRANSFERS Permanently restricted net assets transferred from Knights of Columbus Nebraska State Council 429,007 429,007 Transfers 16,027 (16,027) Life insurance policies 46,859 46,859
NET ASSETS, end of year 9,556 3,3,072 507,071 549,699
See accompanying notes to financial statements.
4 NEBRASKA STATE COUNCIL McGIVNEY FOUNDATION NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTE 1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Nature of Business
The Nebraska State Council McGivney Foundation (the Foundation) is a Nebraska non profit corporation exempt from federal income tax under Section 501(c)(3) of the U.S. In ternal Revenue Code. The Foundation was established November 30, 2015, in Bellevue, Nebraska. The primary purpose of the Foundation is to serve as an endowment fund to receive donor contributions, from the general public, which are invested in perpetuity. The Foundation's investment income and earnings are available to be used to provide grants to charitable projects and for the benefit of other good works.
Basis of Accounting
The Foundation maintains its books and records and reports its financial operations on the modified cash basis of accounting. As the accompanying statement of assets, liabilities, and net assets - modified cash basis does not include accounts receivable, accounts pay able, and other accrued revenues and expenses, the financial statements do not reflect the financial position or the results of operations of the Foundation in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles. The statements do reflect the fair value of investments.
Financial Statement Presentation
Financial statement presentation follows the recommendations of the FASS ASC 958-205, Financial Statements of Not-for-Profit Organizations; Under this standard, the Foundation is required to report information regarding its financial position and activities according to three classes of net assets: unrestricted net assets, temporarily restricted net assets, and permanently restricted net assets. A description of the net asset categories used by the Foundation follows:
Unrestricted Net Assets - Net assets that are not subject to donor-imposed restrictions, which include assets derived from certain investment earnings, such as investment div idends and interest. Such assets are available for payment of all operating and invest ment expenses of the Foundation and for funding the Foundation's exempt purpose.
Temporarily Restricted Net Assets - Net assets which include amounts received that are designated for future periods or are restricted by the donor for specific purposes. When a donor restriction expires through the expiration of time or satisfaction of the donors' restrictions, restricted net assets are reclassified to unrestricted net assets and are reported in the statement of activities as net assets released from restriction.
Permanently Restricted Net Assets - Net assets subject to donor-imposed restrictions that they be maintained permanently by the Foundation. This includes gifts, trust, and other donations which require by donor restriction that the corpus be invested in perpe tuity and only the income be made available for program operations in accordance with donor restrictions.
5 NE13RASKA STATE COUNCIL McGIVNEY FOUNDATION NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTE 1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued)
Contributions
The Foundation utilizes FASB ASC 958-605, Not-for-Profit Entities Revenue Recognition. This standard requires that unconditional promises to give (pledges) be recorded as re ceivables and revenues and requires the Foundation to distinguish between contribu tions received for each net asset category in accordance with donor-imposed restrictions. Conditional promises to give are recognized only when the conditions on which they de pend are substantially met and the promises become unconditional.
Cash and Cash Equivalents
The Foundation considers short-term highly liquid investments to be cash and cash equivalents provided that they are both readily convertible to cash and had an original maturity of three months or less when purchased. The Foundation had no cash equiva lents at June 30, 2017.
Investments
The Foundation utilizes FASB ASC 958-320, Accounting for Certain Investments Held by Not-for-Profit Organizations. FASB ASC 958-320 sets standards of reporting at fair value certain investments, debt and equity securities, held by not-for-profit organizations.
Therefore, investments in equity securities that have a readily determinable fair value and all investments in debt securities are stated at fair value, with gains and losses included in the statements of activities. Fair value is determined by quoted market values. Invest ments in money markets are recorded at cost, which approximates fair value.
Income Taxes
The Foundation is exempt from federal income tax under Section 501(c)(3) of the Inter nal Revenue Code. However, income from certain activities not directly related to the Foundation's tax-exempt purpose is subject to taxation as unrelated business income. In addition, the Foundation qualifies for the charitable contribution deduction under Section 170(b)(1)(A) and has been classified as an organization other than a private foundation under Section 509(a)(2).
The Foundation utilizes the provisions of FASB ASC 740-10, Accounting for Uncertain Tax Positions. The Foundation continually evaluates expiring statutes of limitations, audits, pro posed settlements, changes in tax law, and new authoritative rulings. The Foundation be lieves that it has appropriate support for any tax positions taken, and as such, does not have any uncertain tax positions that would be material to the financial statements.
6 NEBRASKA STATE COUNCIL McGIVNEY FOUNDATION NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTE 1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued)
Use of Estimates
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with the modified cash basis of accounting used by the Foundation requires management to make estimates and assump tions that affect certain reported amounts and disclosures; accordingly, actual results could differ from those estimates.
NOTE 2. INVESTMENTS
The Foundation utilizes FASS ASC 820-10, Fair Value Measurements, which provides a framework for measuring fair value under generally accepted accounting principles. FASS ASC 820-10 applies to all financial instruments that are being measured and re ported on a fair value basis.
As defined in FASS ASC 820-10, fair value is the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. In determining fair value, the Foundation uses various methods including market, income, and cost approaches. Based on these approaches, the Foun dation often utilizes certain assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability, including assumptions about risk and/or the risks inherent in the inputs to the valuation technique. These inputs can be readily observable, market-corroborated, or generally unobservable inputs. The Foundation utilizes valuation techniques that max imize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs. Based on the observability of the inputs used in the valuation techniques, the Foundation is re quired to provide the following information according to the fair value hierarchy. The fair value hierarchy ranks the quality and reliability of the information used to determine fair values. Financial assets and liabilities carried at fair value will be classified and disclosed in one of the following three categories:
Level 1-Valuations for assets and liabilities traded in active exchange markets, such as the New York Stock Exchange. Level 1 also includes U.S. Treasury and federal agency securities and federal agency mortgage-backed securities, which are traded by dealers or brokers in active markets. Valuations are obtained from readily available pricing sources for market transactions involving identical assets or liabilities.
Level 2 - Valuations for assets and liabilities traded in less active dealer or broker mar kets. Valuations are obtained from third-party pricing services for identical or similar assets or liabilities.
Level 3 - Valuations for assets and liabilities that are derived from other valuation methodologies, including option-pricing models, discounted cash flow models, and similar techniques, and not based on market exchange, dealer, or broker-traded transactions. Level 3 valuations incorporate certain assumptions and projections in determining the fair value assigned to such assets or liabilities.
7 NEBRASKA STATE COUNCIL McGIVNEY FOUNDATION NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTE 2. INVESTMENTS (Continued)
For the fiscal year ended June 30, 2017, the application of valuation techniques applied to similar assets has been consistent. The following is a description of the valuation methodologies used for instruments measured at fair value:
Marketable Equity and Debt Securities
The fair value of marketable equity and debt securities is the market value based on quoted market prices, when available, or market prices provided by recognized broker dealers. If listed prices or quotes are not available, fair value is based upon externally developed models that use unobservable inputs due to the limited market activity of the instrument.
Level 2 Measurements
The fair value of The Catholic Foundation of Southern Nebraska assets is measured using quoted market prices for similar assets within The Catholic Foundation of Southern Nebraska.
Fair Value on a Recurring Basis
The table below presents the balances of assets measured at June 30, 2017, at fair value on a recurring basis. 2017 Total Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 The Catholic Foundation of Southern Nebraska 493,009 493,009
The carrying amounts, market value, unrealized gains, and unrealized losses of the investments at June 30, 2017, are as follows:
2017 Estimated Total Unrealized Unrealized Fair Cost Gains Losses Value The Catholic Foundation of Southern Nebraska 462,495 30,514 493,009
Management evaluates securities for other than temporary impairment at least on a quar terly basis, and more frequently when economic or market concerns warrant such evalua tion. Consideration is given to (1) the lengthof time and the extent to which the fair value has been less than cost, (2) the financial conditions and near-term prospects of the issuer, and (3) the intent and ability of the Foundation to retain its investments in the issuer for a period of time sufficient to allow for any anticipated recovery in fair value. As management has the ability to hold securities for the foreseeable future, no declines are deemed to be other than temporary.
8 NEBRASKA STATE COUNCIL McGIVNEY FOUNDATION NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTE 3. RESTRICTED NET ASSETS
Temporarily Restricted Net Assets
Temporarily restricted net assets consist of the earnings from the endowment fund. These funds are temporarily restricted until restrictions have been satisfied and they to taled $33,072 at June 30, 2017.
Permanently Restricted Net Assets
Permanently restricted net assets consist of donations of cash and life insurance policies from the public to the Foundation's Endowment Fund. By donor restriction, the corpus of the fund is permanently restricted, and the earnings may be spent to fulfill the Founda tion's exempt purpose. Endowment fund assets that were permanently restricted by do nors totaled $507,071at June 30, 2017.
NOTE 4. CONCENTRATION OF CREDIT RISK
The Foundation had deposits at several financial institutions. At June 30, 2017, none of the deposits were in excess of the $250,000 federally insured limit by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation. At June 30, 2017, the Foundation's cash balances were fully in sured.
NOTE 5. ENDOWMENT FUND
The Foundation's endowment consists of one fund established to fulfill the Foundation exempt purpose. Its endowment includes both donor-restricted funds and earnings on investments that have accumulated and have not been distributed. As required by gen erally accepted accounting principles, net assets associated with the endowment fund are classified and reported based on the existence or absence of donor-imposed re strictions.
The Board of Directors of the Foundation has interpreted the Uniform Prudent Manage ment of Institutional Funds Act (UPMIFA) as requiring the preservation of the fair value of the original gift as of the gift date of the donor-restricted endowment funds absent explicit donor stipulations to the contrary. As a result of this interpretation, the Foundation classi fies as permanently restricted net assets (a) the original value of gifts donated to the per manent endowment, (b) the original value of subsequent gifts donated to the permanent endowment, and (c) accumulations to the permanent endowment made in accordance with the direction of the applicable donor gift instrument at the time the accumulation is added to the fund. In accordance with UPMIFA, the Foundation considers the following factors in making a determination to appropriate or accumulate donor-restricted endow ment funds: (1) the duration and preservation of the fund, (2) the purposes of the donor restricted endowment fund, (3) general economic conditions, (4) the possible effect of in flation and deflation, (5) the expected total return from income and the appreciation of in vestments, (6) other resources of the Foundation, and (7) the Foundation's investment policies.
9 NEBRASKA STATE COUNCIL McGIVNEY FOUNDATION NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTE 5. ENDOWMENT FUND (Continued)
Investment Return Objectives, Risk Parameters. and Strategies
The Foundation has adopted investment and spending policies, approved by the Board of Directors, for endowment assets that attempt to provide a predictable stream of funding to programs supported by its endowment fund while also maintaining the purchasing power of those endowment assets over the long term. Accordingly, the investment process seeks to achieve an after-cost total real rate of return, including investment income as well as capital appreciation, which exceeds the annual distribution with acceptable levels of risk. Actual return in any given year may vary from this amount. Investment risk is measured in terms of the total endowment fund; investment assets and allocation between asset clas ses and strategies are managed to not expose the fund to unacceptable levels of risk.
Spending Policy
The Foundation shall award grants and support as approved by the Board of Directors on an annual basis and these shall only be awarded from the Endowment Fund's earnings. The Foundation considered the long-term expected return on its investment assets, the nature and duration of the individual endowment funds, many of which must be main tained in perpetuity because of donor-restrictions, and the possible effects of inflation. This is consistent with the Organization's objective to maintain the purchasing power of the endowment assets as well as to provide additional real growth through new gifts and investment return.
Endowment Net Asset Composition by Type and Fund as of June 30, 2017, is as follows:
Permanently Restricted
Cash value - life insurance policies 47,134 Donor-restricted endowment fund 459,937 507,071
Changes in endowment net assets as of June 30, 2017, are as follows:
Permanently Restricted
Endowment net assets, beginning of year
Contributions, donor restricted 42,570 Increase in cash value of life insurance 4,662 Endowment nets assets transferred in 459,839
Endowment net assets, end of year 507,071
10 NEBRASKA STATE COUNCIL McGIVNEY FOUNDATION NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTE 6. CASH VALUE - LIFE INSURANCE
At June 30, 2017, the Nebraska State Council McGivney Foundation owns and is the beneficiary of life insurance contracts with the Knights of Columbus. The life insurance contracts are reported at their respective cash surrender values, net of any policy loans, which totaled $47,134 at June 30, 2017.
NOTE 7. SUBSEQUENT EVENTS
In preparing the financial statements, the Foundation has evaluated events and transac tions for potential recognition or disclosure through October 9, 2017, the date the finan cial statements were available to be issued.
11 KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS NEBRASKA STATE COUNCIL 2017 PROPOSED CONVENTION RESOLUTIONS ______
I. RECURRENT RESOLUTIONS
A. FEALTY, COMMENDATION, & SUPPORT RESOLUTIONS. WHEREAS, the Knights of Columbus Nebraska State Council (“State Council”) wishes to annually resolve for fealty, commendation, and support; now, therefore:
1. RESOLVED, we pledge faith and loyalty to our Holy Father, His Holiness, Pope Francis; and FURTHER RESOLVED, we pray for the Roman Pontiff Emeritus, His Holiness, Benedict XVI, and offer thanks to God for having provided such a great and holy man to lead the faithful.
2. RESOLVED, we express our gratitude and appreciation to Supreme Knight, Carl Anderson, for his outstanding vision, leadership, and successful direction of the Order during the past year; and FURTHER RESOLVED, we express our sincere appreciation and support to each Supreme Officer, Supreme Director, and staff for untiring efforts on our behalf during the past Year.
3. RESOLVED, we extend our gratitude to His Excellency, The Most Reverend Joseph Hanefeldt, Bishop of Grand Island, for his assistance and encouragement, and we pledge to him our continuing loyalty and support; and FURTHER RESOLVED, we pray for The Most Reverend William Dendinger, Bishop Emeritus of Grand Island, and extend our gratitude for his many years of assistance and encouragement.
4. RESOLVED, we extend our gratitude to His Excellency, The Most Reverend James Conley, Bishop of Lincoln, for his assistance and encouragement during the past year, and we pledge to him our continuing loyalty and support; and FURTHER RESOLVED, we pray for The Most Reverend Fabian Bruskewitz, Bishop Emeritus of Lincoln, and extend our gratitude for his many years of assistance and encouragement.
5. RESOLVED, we extend our gratitude to His Excellency, The Most Reverend George J. Lucas, Archbishop of Omaha, for his assistance and encouragement during the past year, and we pledge to him our continuing loyalty and support; and FURTHER RESOLVED, we pray for The Most Reverend Elden Francis Curtiss, Bishop Emeritus of Omaha, and extend our gratitude for his many years of assistance and encouragement.
6. RESOLVED, we express our gratitude to all state, district, and local officers and the councils which they lead for the numerous contributions and excellent work during the past year.
7. RESOLVED, we express our sincere appreciation to the city officials and people of Kearney, Nebraska, for assisting with the preparation and conducting of the 112th Annual Nebraska State Convention, and for the hospitality and splendid efforts in making the State Convention a success.
8. RESOLVED, the State Council is honored to have Supreme Director Thomas Smith as our 2017 Supreme Council Representative and State Dinner guest and speaker; we extend our sincere gratitude and appreciation.
9. RESOLVED, we extend our gratitude, appreciation, and support to the Nebraska Columbian Squires Circles, the State Circle and Chairmen, and all officers and counselors thereof.
Appendix E 10. RESOLVED, the State Council continues to support all priests in their tasks with time, energy, and resources, and also with prayers, friendship, kindness, and support for each of them and the office they hold as Jesus’ representatives in our parishes.
B. POSITION RESOLUTIONS. WHEREAS, the State Council wishes to annually state its position on a variety of topics of particular interest to the State Council and Organization; now, therefore:
1. RESOLVED, we pray for the souls of our deceased Popes and offer thanks to God, the Father of all creation, for providing such great and holy men to lead the faithful.
2. RESOLVED, we pray for the souls of our departed Brother Knights, may they rest in peace.
3. RESOLVED, we recommend to the Supreme Council that the Board of Directors and Supreme Officers continue to pursue the cause of sainthood of Servant of God, the Venerable Father Michael J. McGivney.
4. RESOLVED, we pledge to continue to seek the reversal of court decisions legalizing abortion and the re-establishment of full legal protection for the unborn; and FURTHER RESOLVED, pending this result, we pledge to continue support of laws and public policies limiting the performance of abortion as much as possible; and FURTHER RESOLVED, we pledge to continue the activities of the Order at all levels to inform, educate, and motivate our own members, the public at large, and public officials regarding the dignity and sanctity of human life at all stages, from conception to natural death, and the evils of abortion and other offenses against innocent life.
5. RESOLVED, we pledge to support the lawful challenge of all Government legislation, regulation, and policy that compels without exception the furnishing of reproductive services for contraception or abortion.
6. RESOLVED, we pledge continued support for traditional marriage between one man and one woman; and FURTHER RESOLVED, we pledge to continue the activities of the Knights of Columbus at all levels to oppose laws and public policies legalizing or supporting “homosexual marriage”, “same-sex marriage”, and similar unions.
7. RESOLVED, that we encourage parents to foster a Christian atmosphere in their homes that allows them to openly discuss with their children the issue of decency in media and entertainment and their concerns about misuse of the Internet; FURTHER RESOLVED, that we condemn pornography and graphic sexual content in entertainment and the media and call on Internet providers and the media and entertainment industry to maintain high standards of decency that will protect children and promote healthy family life; FURTHER RESOLVED, that we commend and thank those in the media, entertainment, and retail industries who produce family-friendly media and entertainment products and pledge to patronize them in our choices as consumers; and FURTHER RESOLVED, that we support groups that fight pornography and graphic sexual content in media and entertainment, and that we pledge ourselves to use television, film, and the Internet to promote family values and a healthy understanding of human sexuality.
Appendix E 8. RESOLVED, that we express our strong support for Catholic schools everywhere and encourage legislation and policies that would establish parental choice in education through tax credits, vouchers, and scholarships which would ensure that all parents have the financial means to send their children to Catholic schools.
9. RESOLVED, the State Council again encourages all subordinate councils to pray for vocations at every council meeting in the Nebraska jurisdiction.
10. RESOLVED, the State Council encourages subordinate councils to support the Newman Centers and Catholic parishes of college youth in Nebraska to provide continuing Catholic education and social support to our youth in college.
C. AUTHORIZING RESOLUTIONS. WHEREAS, the State Council wishes to annually authorize certain actions and requirements; now, therefore:
1. RESOLVED, the State Council shall host the annual workshop forum during the 2018 State Convention and pay the fair and reasonable expenses thereof.
2. RESOLVED, the State Council shall host an annual Chaplains’ Seminar during the 2018 State Convention and pay the fair and reasonable expenses thereof.
3. RESOLVED, the State Council shall prepare, publish, and distribute a State Directory for the 2017- 2018 Columbian Year and pay the actual expenses thereof.
4. RESOLVED, the State Council shall publish the Knights Courier quarterly for the 2017-2018 Columbian Year and pay the fair and reasonable expenses thereof; and FURTHER RESOLVED, each issue of the Knights Courier published during the 2017-2018 Columbian Year shall be delivered to each member of each subordinate council as reflected by the membership records maintained at the office of the Supreme Council by electronic transmission (email), U.S. Postal Service, hand-delivery, or other reasonably reliable means as determined and directed by the State Council Executive Committee (“Executive Committee”) and that the fair and reasonable expenses thereof be paid by the State Council.
5. RESOLVED, the State Council shall continue to levy an annual assessment on the subordinate councils of eight dollars and seventy-five cents ($8.75) per capita, payable pursuant to The First Revised and Restated Bylaws of the Nebraska State Council of the Knights of Columbus, and all such prior assessments made and collected are approved.
6. RESOLVED, the State Council per diem and mileage rate referenced in The First Revised and Restated Bylaws of the Nebraska State Council of the Knights of Columbus shall be as follows: Per diem at Fifteen Dollars ($15.00); and, Mileage at Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per mile one way as calculated by the Executive Committee; and FURTHER RESOLVED, all such prior assessments made and collected are approved.
7. RESOLVED, for the 2017-2018 Columbian Year the Executive Committee shall be and is authorized to pay expenses and obligations of the State Council and select and disburse State Council funds to organizations the Executive Committee deems worthy of support as determined at any regular or special meeting of the Committee pursuant to the Bylaws, and that all such proper payments and disbursements made during the past year are approved.
Appendix E 8. RESOLVED, the State Council shall prepare, publish, and distribute a Report of Charitable Disbursements in a form and at a time as determined and directed by the Executive Committee.
II. NEW PROPOSED RESOLUTIONS
A. EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE PROPOSED RESOLUTIONS.
1. There are no Executive Committee proposed resolutions.
B. SUBORDINATE COUNCIL PROPOSED RESOLUTIONS.
1. There are no Subordinate Council proposed resolutions.
Appendix E NEBRASKA STATE COUNCIL PAST STATE DEPUTIES AND FORMER STATE CHAPLAINS
YEAR STATE DEPUTY STATE CHAPLAIN 1905-06 Timothy J. Mahoney, Omaha Rev Thomas Walsh, Norfolk 1906-07 Constantine J. Smythe, Omaha Rev Thomas Walsh, Norfolk 1907-09 Constantine J. Smythe, Omaha Rev W. G. McNamara, Alliance 1909-11 Arthur F. Mullen, O’Neill Rev William Windolf, Creighton 1911-13 W. E. Straub, Lincoln Msgr W. Wolf, Grand Island 1913-15 Thomas P. Redmond, Omaha Most Rev J. H. Tihen, Lincoln 1915-19 George F. Corcoran Msgr L. A. Dunphy, Sutton 1919-21 Edward J. Whelen, O’Neill Msgr L. A. Dunphy, Sutton 1921-23 William J. McNichols, Lexington Msgr L. A. Dunphy, Sutton 1923-25 Francis P. Matthews, Omaha Rev Anton Link, Sidney 1925-27 William M. Whelen, Hastings Rev Anton Link, Sidney 1927-29 Dr. E. E. Zimmerer, Lincoln Msgr James W. Stenson, Omaha 1929-31 Albert A. Kjar, Lexington Rev Anton Link, Sidney 1931-33 John W. Delchant, Beatrice Rev Anton Link, Sidney 1933-36 John E. Fitzpatrick, Omaha Rev Anton Link, Sidney 1936-38 Dr. L. A. Donahoe, Omaha Rev Anton Link, Sidney 1938-40 Richard A. Daughtery, Kearney Rev Anton Link, Sidney 1940-42 Dr. J. R. Hughes, St. Paul Most Rev John L. Paschang, Omaha 1942-44 James L. Kudrna, Wahoo Most Rev John L. Paschang, Omaha 1944-46 Charles L. McDonald, Omaha Rev Francis J. Tschida, Kearney 1946-48 Edward A. Dosek, Lincoln Rev William A. Murphy, David City 1948-50 George W. Dittrick, Norfolk Msgr Joseph B. Falke, VF, Creighton 1950-52 Cyril P. Shaughnessy, St. Paul Rev Leo Keating, Grand Island 1952-54 George M. McCarthy, O’Neill Rev Clarence J. Crowley, Hebron 1954-56 Glenn J. McEniry, Kearney Rev Virgil P. Walkowiak, West Point 1956-58 Ernest A. Ondracek, Greeley Rev Raymond Miles, Chadron 1958-60 Leon V. Michael, Lincoln Msgr M. M. Kaszmarek, Lincoln 1960-62 George A. Nussrallah, Omaha Rev Edward J. Hunkeler, Bloomfield 1962-64 Walter F. Mruz, Fremont Msgr Lawrence A. Portney, Lexington
Appendix F 1964-66 Raymond J. Burbach, Hebron Msgr Charles J. Keenan, Hebron 1966-68 Leonard Feehan, Columbus Rev Charles Oborny, VF, Verdigree 1968-70 H. Edward Jacobi, Hastings Rev Stanley C. Gorak, Ord 1970-72 Kenneth D. Holmes, Chester Msgr A. J. Kisko, David City 1972-74 John H. McCarville, O’Neill Rev Emmett F. Meyer, Columbus 1974-76 Edward L. Wagner, Winnetoon Rev Hubert J. Spanel, Ainsworth 1976-78 John T. Carpenter, Omaha Msgr John J. McCabe, Wahoo 1978-80 Edgar N. Portz, North Platte Rev Frederick Snyder, Anselmo 1980-82 Jerome F. Jarecke, Columbus Rev Edmund Placek, Burwell 1982-84 Thomas Olson, Fremont Msgr Robert Nienaber, Cedar Rapids 1984-86 Richard Batenhorst, North Platte Msgr Ivan Vap, Hastings 1986-88 Eugene Bartunek, David City Rev Raymond Hain, McCook 1988-90 Jerome Smith, David city Rev John Cook, Burwell 1990-92 Robert H. Ostdiek, Gretna Msgr Robert P. Hupp, Boystown 1992-94 Larry J. Reed, Bellevue Rev Lyle M. Johnson, Nebraska City 1994-96 Rod J. Hofschulte, Omaha Msgr Andrew Meister, Cedar Bluffs 1996-98 Allen Koliha, Clarkson Rev Daniel Soltys, Gretna 1998-00 Howard Gaffney, Anselmo Rev Daniel Soltys, Gretna 2000-02 John M. Lukowski, Omaha Rev Daniel Soltys, Gretna 2002-04 John F Smith, Broken Bow Most Rev Lawrence McNamara, Grand Island Fr. Robert Rooney, Kearney 2004-06 John Melena, Wayne Most Rev William Dendinger, Grand Island 2006-08 Donald A. Ferneding, Beatrice Rev Michael Gutgsell, Omaha 2008-10 Michael G. Conrad, Fort Calhoun Rev James Tiegs, Omaha 2010-13 James N Haiar, Omaha Rev Scott A. Hastings, Omaha Rev Norman Hunke, Omaha 2013-15 Richard W. Lowery, Lincoln Rev Troy Schweiger, Lincoln
(City of residence during term of office. Some titles may reflect later honors.)
Appendix F