Nebraska State Council Knights of Columbus
Report of the 113th Convention Held in Kearney, Nebraska April 27, 27, and 29, 2018
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STATE DEPUTY Lou Gasper (Carole) 1847 Harrison Ave Lincoln NE 68502 (402) 476-0764 Home Council 11001, Lincoln
PAST STATE DEPUTY Anthony (Tony) W. Hergott (Laurie) 4008 27th St Columbus NE 68601 (402) 564-9924 Home Council 12086, Columbus
2 STATE OFFICERS 2017-2018
STATE CHAPLAIN
Rev Kenneth Borowiak 7501 Yankee Woods Dr Lincoln NE 68516 (402) 328-8480 Home Council: 10913
STATE SECRETARY
Mark J. Borytsky (Audrey) 13005 S. 29th Place Bellevue NE 68123 (402) 212-9612 Home Council 6192, Bellevue
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STATE TREASURER
Matt Richardson (Connie) 2621 SW 19th Street Lincoln NE 68522 (402) 380-3513 Home Council 11001, Lincoln
STATE ADVOCATE
John Svoboda (Maria) 16107 Wakely St Omaha NE 68522 (402) 937-7757 Home Council 10909, Omaha
4 STATE WARDEN
Robert Wolf (Chris) 814 Canal St Scottsbluff NE 69361 (308) 631-6171 Home Council 2681, Scottsbluff
SUPREME MEMBERSHIP PROGRAM CONSULTANT
Joe Ramirez Sr. (Cheryl) 4305 Wakonda Parkway Des Moines UA 50315 (302) 444-2954
5 EXECUTIVE SECRETARY
Ray Guggenberger 3101 Washington St, #7 Bellevue NE 68005 (402) 291-5925 Home Council 6192, Bellevue
GENERAL AGENT - EAST
Kevin Pfeifer (Cindy) 312 N. Elm St, Ste 115 Grand Island NE 68801 (308) 381-2075 Home Council 9562, Grand Island
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GENERAL AGENT – WEST
Tony Swanson (Cathy) 105 N Hastings Ave, #212 Hastings NE 68901 (308) 463-2845, Ext 1 Home Council 11823, Hastings
GENERAL AGENT – NORTHEAST
Neil Pfeifer (Becky) 1500 Clark St Norfolk NE 68787 (402) 640-1239 Home Council 1793, Norfolk
7 PROGRAM DIRECTORS/CHAIRMEN 2017-2018
Program Director Michael Schaeffer (Shelly) 4306 Sheridan Rd Bellevue NE 68123 (402)651-9840 Home Council 11879
Council/Community Director James Pelster (Henri) 2222 Road 109 Sidney NE 69162 (308)249-2681 Home Council 1861
Church Director Mark Main (Julie) 808 Karen Dr Lincoln NE 68522 (402) 475-0715 Home Council 11001
Family Directors Jeffrey & Ginger Wardyn 79650 Sumner Rd Broken Bow NE 68822 (308) 872-2065 Home Council 2388
Youth Director David Marx (Susan) 13617 Atwood Ave Omaha NE 68144 (402) 689-0986 Home Council 9518
Culture of Life Directors Brian & Mary Jo Hamik 824 Volkman Dr Norfolk NE 68701 (402) 379-1665 Hoe Council 1793
8 Intellectual Disabilities Directors Don & Terri Hypse 1019 Sherman St Wayne NE 68787 (402) 375-4574 Home Council 8579
Vocations Chairman Wayne Crome (Leah) 59357 Belfast Rd Greeley NE 68842 (308) 379-5354 Home Council 1312
Convention Coordinator Co-Chairman Robert Ostdiek (Kris) 2120 S 4th Ave Beatrice NE 68310 (402) 228-9401 Home Council 1723
Convention Coordinator Co-Chairman Patrick Rupp (Cindy) 16637 Holmes Omaha NE 68135 (402) 850-1642 Home Council 14077
State FS Coordinator Co-Chairman Mitchell O'Neill 2110 12th Ave Kearney NE 68845(308) 440-3330 Home Council 10923
State FS Coordinator Co-Chairman Michael Vaughn (Patricia) 1609 Hedgeapple Rd Plattsmouth NE 68048 (402) 296-5422 Home Council 1966
9 Athletics Chairman/Special Event Coordinator Joseph Bober (Cindy) 4070 I St Omaha NE 68107 (402) 734-4374 Home Council 3019
Public Relations Chairman Ron Goodrich (Duffi) 8818 Ohern St Omaha NE 68127 (402) 592-0823 Home Council 9518
Website Chairman Aaron Goodrich 8818 Ohern St Omaha NE 68127 (402) 592-0823 Home Council 9518
Courier Editor Duffi Goodrich 8818 Ohern St Omaha NE 68127 (402) 592-0823
IT/Production Specialist Kevin Ostdiek 1320 Ryons St Lincoln NE 68522 (402) 438-2114 Home Council 11001
Production Support Joseph Gasper 1847 Harrison Ave Lincoln NE 68502 (402) 476-0764 Home Council 11001
Foundation Advisor Daniel Wells (Beth) 19534 Farnam St Elkhorn NE 68022 (402) 390-9873 Home Council 10909
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Foundation Advisor Manny Gallardo (Lucy) 5234 S 61st St Lincoln NE 68516 (402) 423-0782 Home Council 9563
STATE MEMBERSHIP PROGRAMS 2017-2018
Membership Director Mark Dwyer (Julie) 83449 508th Ave Bartlett NE 68622 (402) 843-2479 Home Council 2411
Regional Membership Chairman Donald (Scott) Bonham (Debra) 760 S Shore Dr Hastings NE 68901 (402) 462-9259 Home Council 1123
Regional Membership Chairman John Courtney (Bobi) 219 S. Potash Ave Alliance NE 69301 (308) 762-2232 Home Council 975
Regional Membership Chairman Ignacio Cervantes (Adela) 6417 Elmhurst Dr Omaha NE 68157 (402) 933-9674 Home Council 10815
Regional Membership Chairman Don Ferneding, PSD 605 N 25th St Beatrice NE 68310 (402) 223-6660 Home Council 1723
11 Regional Membership Chairman Rod Hofschulte, PSD (Debbie) 13814 Marinda Cir Omaha NE 68144 (402) 510-7250 Home Council 10909
Regional Membership Chairman Thomas Schmitz 5621 S St Omaha NE 68117 (402) 734-6365 Home Council 652
Regional Membership Chairman Al Pfeifer (Janet) 806 Husker Dr Madison NE 68748 (402) 454-3907 Home Council 8986
CEREMONIALS CO-CHAIRMEN 2017-2018
Ceremonials Co-Chairman Larry Reed, PSD (Judy) 101 Kings Dr Bellevue NE 68005 (402) 292-2799 Home Council: 6192
Ceremonials Co-Chairman Thomas Schmitz 5621 S St Omaha NE 68117 (402) 734-6365 Home Council 652
DISTRICT DEPUTIES 2017-2018
District 01 Mark Keller (Sheila) 3416 Cornhusker Dr Omaha NE 68124 (402) 320-2648 Home Council 13956
12 District 02 Dennis Podjenski (Denise) 12504 Woolworth Ave Omaha NE 68144 (402) 334-7654 Home council 10108
District 03 Kevin Illian (Lou Ann) 7605 Nina St Omaha NE 68124 (402) 515-2746 Home Council 9918
District 04 Stephen Little (Julie) 3965 S 205th St Elkhorn NE 68022 (402) 690-1447 Home Council 10160
District 05 Patrick Hanus (Suzanne) 6821 Hillcrest Ln LaVista NE 68128 (402) 934-6575 Home Council 3019
District 06 Craig Vavak (Lu) 13912 Monroe St Omaha NE 68137 (402) 690-0639 Home Council 14077
District 07 Dr. Stephen Severin, DVM (Ann) 70457 653 Blvd Falls City NE 68355 (402) 245-2013 Home Council 1336
13 District 08 Matthew Schroeder (Laura) 1816 Summit St Beatrice NE 68310 (480) 694-1693 Home Council 1723
District 09 Mark Kistler (Erin) 4645 Bancroft Ave Lincoln NE 68506 (402) 540-0945 Home Council 9563
District 10 Gary Taylor (Christine) 5610 N 26th Pl Lincoln NE 68521 (402) 465-0727 Home Council 13576
District 11 Leland Buescher (Jolene) 1780 E Assumption Rd Glenvil NE 68941 (402) 705-2329 Home Council 11823
District 12 Vacant
District 13 Rolland Dvorak (Elaine) 32 Pioneer Lk North Bend NE 68649 (402) 512-5750 Home Council 3736
District 14 Donald Cech (Denise) 312 Grace St Howells NE 68641 (402) 986-0915 Home Council 5439
14 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 Gary Hoefer 83424 516 Ave Elgin NE 68636 (402) 843-5487 Home Council 2411
District 19 Ronald Faltys 115 D St Schuyler NE 68661 (402) 352-3513 Home Council 2716
District 20 Roy Zach 34593 445 Ave Genoa NE 68640 (402) 253-9641 Home Council 10607
15 District 21 Gerald Smith (Sherry) 82747 Old Hwy 101 Spalding NE 68665 (308) 750-3670 Home Council 13584
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 Mitchell O'Neill 2110 12th Ave Kearney NE 68845 (308) 440-3330 Home Council 10923
District 25 Marshall Paczosa PO Box 122 Elba NE 68835 (308) 754-8075 Home Council 1918
District 26 John Mathis 812 N Collins St Atkinson NE 68713 (402) 925-2533 Home Council 4707
16 District 27 Kelly Russell (Tammy) 527 N Hugh St Valentine NE 69201 (402) 376-2034 Home Council 4633
District 28 William (Mike) Stromitis (Cheryl) 1111 W. 9th St North Platte NE 69101 (308) 530-5003 Home Council 1211
District 29 Gerald (Jerry) 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 Steve Viessman (Tammy) 2324 Ave G Scottsbluff NE 69361 (308) 635-3706 Home Council 2681
District 32 Jerome (JJ) Smith (Maureen) 1442 Colorado Ave Alliance NE 69301 (308) 760-6600 Home Council 975
17 District 33 Dr. Therial Bynum, MD 4371 Hamilton St, #3 Omaha NE 68131 (402) 591-1413 Home Council 652
District 34 Dr. Bryan Welty, DVM (Mary) 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) 690-0611 Home Council 10795
District 36 David Wagner (Bernie) 3267 Spring St Omaha NE 68105 (531) 444-1785 Home Council 3019
District 37 Peter 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
18 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) 104 S Niphon St West Point NE 68788 (402) 380-9053 Home Council 2272
19 REPORT OF THE ANNUAL 113th CONVENTION NEBRASKA STATE COUNCIL, KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS HELD IN KEARNEY, NEBRASKA ON THE 27th, 28th & 29th APRIL, 2018
FRIDAY, APRIL 27th, 2018 – INSURANCE AGENCY SOCIAL The Eastern, Western and Northeastern Agencies hosted a social in the Crystal Room, Younes Conference Center, Kearney Nebraska. The guests were offered a Knights of Columbus pizza cutter or a spiritual DVD. The guests were give 1 drink ticket for a beverage due to liability considerations.
FRIDAY, APRIL 27th, 2018 – 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, Michael Schaefer. The complete awards listing follows:
Category Award Type Div. Place Council Name Council # City Project Description Grand Knight
Publicity Publicity 1 1st Fairbury 4434 Fairbury Randall S Prellwitz
Publicity 2 1st Fr. Clement Bracht 10184 Omaha Mike McDonnell
Publicity 3 1st Blessed Sacrament 11001 Lincoln Mitchell W. Lowery
Publicity 4 1st Columban 6192 Bellevue Joseph M. Ruff
Publicity 1 2nd St. Ann 11824 Doniphan Rob Kennedy
Publicity 2 2nd St. Francis Borgia 10412 Blair Mark Havlovec Father William Publicity 3 2nd Kearns 8579 Wayne Dave Podany
Publicity 4 2nd Pius XII 1123 Hastings Alan Aschoff
Category Award Type Council Name Council # City Project Description Grand Knight
Fund Raiser pay off Vocations Support of Vocations equal Fr. John V. Wallace 10047 Gretna loans postulant Donald S Rockwell
Cathedral of the Support of Support of Vocations equal Risen Christ 9563 Lincoln Seminarians Alvin D. Raef
Category Award Type Place Council Name Council # City Project Description Grand Knight State Council On-Going Projects equal St. Isaac Jogues 11312 Lincoln Witness for Fitness Raymond J. Wall
On-Going Projects equal Pope John Paul I 7714 Superior Spirit of Christmas Matt Rempe
Category Award Type Place Council Name Council # City Project Description Grand Knight
Culture of Work for Bethlehem Life Supreme Service Award 1st Father John P. Brock 7034 Valley House Vern Ortmeier
One Rose One Life State Service Award 2nd St. John The Baptist 10305 Fort Calhoun Brunch James J. Hubschman
Category Award Type Place Council Name Council # City Artist Grand Knight Culture of St. Vincent DePaul Life Culture of Life Art Contest 1st Council 10795 Omaha Claire Quattrocchi Ronald J. Frisse
Culture of Life Art Contest 2nd St. Wenceslaus 10909 Omaha Bridget McGill Robert Cronin
Culture of Life Art Contest 3rd Resurrection 11363 Grand Island Mig Wiese Stephen Martin
20 Category Award Type Div. Place Council Name Council # City Amount Grand Knight Culture of Our Lady Of $ Life One Rose - One Life 1 1st Guadalupe 10815 Omaha 1,497.81 Ramon Arambula, Jr $ One Rose - One Life 2 1st St. Joseph 10894 Springfield 1,900.00 Michael Fowler $ One Rose - One Life 3 1st St. John The Baptist 10305 Fort Calhoun 4,000.00 James J. Hubschman St. Robert $ One Rose - One Life 4 1st Bellarmine 10108 Omaha 6,541.35 Timothy J. Mohatt
$ One Rose - One Life 1 2nd Gene Day Council 9939 Ponca 1,065.90 Steve Schutte $ One Rose - One Life 2 2nd Fr. Clement Bracht 10184 Omaha 1,093.44 Mike McDonnell $ One Rose - One Life 3 2nd St. Matthew 11879 Bellevue 3,092.67 Patrick Brennan $ One Rose - One Life 4 2nd St. Wenceslaus 10909 Omaha 5,835.24 Robert Cronin
Category Award Type Place Council Name Council # City Project Description Grand Knight State Council Special Project equal St. John Vianney 7740 Omaha Haiti Mission Trip Win N. Lander Monsignor David R. Special Project equal Hintz 13576 Lincoln I-80 Collar Series David E. Wilson
Category Award Type Place Council Name Council # City Project Description Grand Knight Support of Catholic St. Vincent DePaul Catholic Schools Church Education equal Council 10795 Omaha Week Breakfast Ronald J. Frisse Support of Catholic Education equal Blessed Sacrament 11001 Lincoln Fund a Nun Mitchell W. Lowery
Category Award Type Place Council Name Council # City Project Description Grand Knight Chalking Doors for Church Supreme Service Award 1st St. Isidore 12086 Columbus Epiphany Keith Albracht Support of HVAC in State Service Award 2nd St. Joseph 2272 West Point Church Justin Steffensmeier
Category Award Type Place Council Name Council # City Project Description Grand Knight
Leonard Feehan Memorial Support of Two Area Community Community Service 1st Broken Bow 2388 Broken Bow Families Jamie Hurlburt
Category Award Type Place Council Name Council # City Project Description Grand Knight St. Charles Community Supreme Service Award 1st Borromeo 14077 Omaha Cinco de Mayo event Daniel K. Leonard
State Service Award 2nd St. Matthew 11879 Bellevue Spaghetti Feed Patrick Brennan
Category Award Type Place Council Name Council # City Project Description Grand Knight Kitchen Remodel Council Supreme Service Award 1st St. John The Baptist 10305 Fort Calhoun work James J. Hubschman
State Service Award 2nd St. Isidore 12086 Columbus Auction of Tractor Keith Albracht
Category Award Type Place Council Name Council # City Project Description Grand Knight Family Event of the Family Supreme Service Award 1st Fr. John V. Wallace 10047 Gretna Year 2017 Donald S Rockwell Tour of Our Lady of Fatima 100 yr State Service Award 2nd St. Isidore 12086 Columbus Anniversary Keith Albracht
Category Award Type Place Council Name Council # City Project Description Grand Knight Support of CYO - Youth Supreme Service Award 1st St. Stephen 1906 Lawrence CCD Program Philip Mazour Fr. Timothy P. State Service Award 2nd Molony 2681 Scottsbluff Suport of Boys Choir David N. Wolf
Category Award Type Place Council Name Council # City Artist Grand Knight
21 Youth Substance Abuse Poster 1st - Ages Drug Abuse 8-11 Saint Boniface 5881 Stuart Gracie Kaup Jeff A. Dvorak 1st - Ages 12-14 Saint Pius the Tenth 15101 Omaha Megan Kopf Tracy W. Potter
Category Award Type Place Council Name Council # City Artist Grand Knight
Youth Substance Abuse Poster 1st - Ages Alcohol Abuse 8-11 Saint Boniface 5881 Stuart Hunter Tubbs Jeff A. Dvorak 1st - Ages 12-14 Falls City 1336 Falls City Lainey Ebel Kevin Cluskey
Category Award Type Place Council Name Council # City Artist Grand Knight 1st - Ages Bishop Glennon P. Youth Keep Christ in Christmas 5-7 Flavin 11737 Denton Philip Vinton Jeffrey L. Sears 1st - Ages Bishop Glennon P. 8-10 Flavin 11737 Denton Selah Vinton Jeffrey L. Sears 1st - Ages 11-14 St. Isaac Jogues 11312 Lincoln Alexa McInerney Raymond J. Wall
Category Award Type Div. Place Council Name Council # City Percent Gain Grand Knight
Membership Highest Percent Gain 1 1st Father Robert Barry 6385 Bassett/Ainsworth 125.00% Marty Moravec
Highest Percent Gain 1 2nd Father McGivney 12530 North Platte 100.00% Loren L. Baxa
Highest Percent Gain 1 2nd St. Joseph's 10163 Benkelman/Stratton 100.00% Jason S. Preston
Highest Percent Gain 1 3rd St. John Paul II - UNO 16680 Omaha 75.00% Ian Ostdiek St. Mary's/St. Highest Percent Gain 1 3rd Patrick's 15647 Davey 75.00% Steven J. Tvrdy
Membership Highest Percent Gain 2 1st Father McFadden 7614 Syracuse 140.00% William Formanack
Highest Percent Gain 2 2nd Father John P. Brock 7034 Valley 114.29% Vern Ortmeier
Highest Percent Gain 2 3rd Saint Pius the Tenth 15101 Omaha 100.00% Tracy W. Potter
Highest Percent Gain 2 3rd St. Francis 7550 Neligh 100.00% Paul Rudloff
Highest Percent Gain 2 3rd St. Rose of Lima 14685 Crofton 100.00% Keith C. Goeden
Father William Membership Highest Percent Gain 3 1st Kearns 8579 Wayne 116.67% Dave Podany St. Charles Highest Percent Gain 3 2nd Borromeo 14077 Omaha 100.00% Daniel K. Leonard
Highest Percent Gain 3 3rd Blessed Sacrament 11001 Lincoln 75.00% Mitchell W. Lowery
Cathedral of the Membership Highest Percent Gain 4 1st Risen Christ 9563 Lincoln 110.00% Alvin D. Raef
Highest Percent Gain 4 2nd Fr. John V. Wallace 10047 Gretna 78.26% Donald S Rockwell
Highest Percent Gain 4 3rd St. Wenceslaus 10909 Omaha 77.14% Robert Cronin
Category Award Type Place Council Name Council # City Recipients Name Fr. Timothy P. Ceremonials George Nussrallah 1st Molony 2681 Scottsbluff Bob Wolf
Category Award Type Div. Place Council Name Council # City Award Type Grand Knight St. Vincent DePaul ICC Champion ICC Awards Champion (Previous Year) Council 10795 Omaha Plaque Mick V. Morrell
22 ICC Awards ICC Gold 1st Liberty 1904 Hebron Plate Roger Retzlaff
ICC Gold 1st Father John P. Brock 7034 Valley Plate Vern Ortmeier Father William ICC Gold 1st Kearns 8579 Wayne Plate Dave Podany Cathedral of the ICC Gold 1st Risen Christ 9563 Lincoln Plate Alvin D. Raef
ICC Gold 1st Fr. John V. Wallace 10047 Gretna Plate Donald S Rockwell
ICC Gold 1st Blessed Sacrament 11001 Lincoln Plate Mitchell W. Lowery
ICC Gold 1st St. Rose of Lima 14685 Crofton Plate Keith C. Goeden Father Kenneth ICC Gold 1st Walker 16878 Lincoln Plaque Michael L Bruns
ICC Awards ICC Silver 2nd St. Joseph 2272 West Point Plate Justin Steffensmeier
ICC Silver 2nd Fairbury 4434 Fairbury Plate Randall S Prellwitz
ICC Silver 2nd St. John Vianney 7740 Omaha Plate Win N. Lander Father William A. ICC Silver 2nd Foster 9518 Ralston Plate John B Feda
ICC Silver 2nd St. Francis Borgia 10412 Blair Plate Mark Havlovec
St. Vincent DePaul ICC Silver 2nd Council 10795 Omaha Plate Ronald J. Frisse
ICC Silver 2nd St. James 10895 Omaha Plate Dan Walsh
ICC Silver 2nd St. Matthew 11879 Bellevue Plate Patrick Brennan Mary Queen of ICC Silver 2nd Angels 15944 Bellwood Plate Kenneth W. Schmid
Father Flanagan of Francisco (Tony) ICC Bronze 3rd Boys Town 652 Omaha Plaque Romero
ICC Bronze 3rd Holy Rosary 975 Alliance Plate John Courtney
ICC Bronze 3rd Pius XII 1123 Hastings Plate Alan Aschoff
ICC Bronze 3rd St. Mary's 1159 Grand Island` Plaque Robert Nordhues
ICC Bronze 3rd Sacred Heart 1793 Norfolk Plate Glen C. Hoesing
ICC Bronze 3rd St. Peter & Paul 1918 St. Paul Plate Marshall Paczosa
ICC Bronze 3rd Fr. Shine 1966 Plattsmouth Plate Patrick M. Carroll
ICC Bronze 3rd Ord 2292 Ord/Burwell Plaque Rodney Valasek
ICC Bronze 3rd St. Boniface 2411 Elgin Plate Robert Schiltmeyer
ICC Bronze 3rd St. Anthony of Padua 2716 Schuyler Plaque Thomas Healy
ICC Bronze 3rd St. Luke 4979 Ogallala Plaque Paul E. Ruhlman
ICC Bronze 3rd Christ the King 5045 Omaha Plate John Schanbacher St. Frances ICC Bronze 3rd Dechantal 5143 Randolph Plate Marvin Nordhues
ICC Bronze 3rd Pope John XXIII 5439 Howells Plate Bernard Hegemann
ICC Bronze 3rd Father McFadden 7614 Syracuse Plaque William Formanack
ICC Bronze 3rd Lindsay 7699 Lindsay Plate Roy M. Zach
ICC Bronze 3rd High-Line 7778 Grant Plaque Justin L. Coats Vincent (Sonny) ICC Bronze 3rd Saint Anthony 9562 Grand Island Plaque Mendez
ICC Bronze 3rd St. Mary 9898 Leigh Plaque Marcus Urban St. Stephen the ICC Bronze 3rd Martyr 10160 Omaha Plate James T. Spurgin
ICC Bronze 3rd St. Joseph's 10163 Benkelman/Stratton Plaque Jason S. Preston
ICC Bronze 3rd Fr. Clement Bracht 10184 Omaha Plate Mike McDonnell
ICC Bronze 3rd St. John The Baptist 10305 Fort Calhoun Plate James J. Hubschman St. John's Holy ICC Bronze 3rd Family 10335 Minden Plaque James Jurgensmier
23 ICC Bronze 3rd St. Leo's 10387 Grand Island Plaque Mark Volkl
ICC Bronze 3rd St. Rose of Lima 10607 Genoa Plaque Daniel L. Strong
ICC Bronze 3rd St. Joseph 10894 Springfield Plate Michael Fowler
ICC Bronze 3rd St. Wenceslaus 10909 Omaha Plate Robert Cronin
ICC Bronze 3rd Prince of Peace 10923 Kearney Plate Steve Coram Msgr. Maurice ICC Bronze 3rd Helmann 11280 Lincoln Plate Steven M. Wallingford
ICC Bronze 3rd Resurrection 11363 Grand Island Plaque Stephen Martin
ICC Bronze 3rd St. Bernard's 11600 Omaha Plaque Steven W. Gallaher
ICC Bronze 3rd St. John The Baptist 11810 Pender Plaque Mark Svoboda
ICC Bronze 3rd St. Isidore 12086 Columbus Plate Keith Albracht
ICC Bronze 3rd Father McGivney 12530 North Platte Plate Loren L. Baxa
Saints Mary and ICC Bronze 3rd Joseph 12557 Ashland/Greenwood Plate John Keith Fr. Robert Foster ICC Bronze 3rd Jubilee 12687 Elm Creek Plate Terry Taubenheim Monsignor David R. ICC Bronze 3rd Hintz 13576 Lincoln Plate David E. Wilson St. Michael's of ICC Bronze 3rd Spalding 13584 Spalding Plate Gerald P. Smith St. Charles ICC Bronze 3rd Borromeo 14077 Omaha Plate Daniel K. Leonard Immaculate ICC Bronze 3rd Conception 14470 Omaha Plate John Bosco
ICC Bronze 3rd St. Patrick of Elkhorn 14914 Elkhorn Plate Edward G Biwer
ICC Bronze 3rd Saint Pius the Tenth 15101 Omaha Plate Tracy W. Potter St. Mary's/St. ICC Bronze 3rd Patrick's 15647 Davey Plate Steven J. Tvrdy
Category Award Type Place DD Name District # Home Town Councils Served State DD of the 7034, 9518,10894, Deputy District Deputy of the Year Year Craig Vavak 6 Omaha 14077 1159, 9562, 10387, Runner Up Chuck Donner 22 Grand Island 11363
Category Award Type Place Council Name Council # City Recipients Name
Council Knight of the Year 1st St. Isidore 12086 Columbus Greg Jochum
Knight of the Year 2nd Columban 6192 Bellevue Ray Romero, Sr.
Category Award Type Place Council Name Council # City Recipients Name
Family Family of the Year 1st Columban 6192 Bellevue Ted & Cindy Menzel Terence & Patti Family of the Year 2nd St. Matthew 11879 Bellevue Veylupek Monsignor David R. Family of the Year HM Hintz 13576 Lincoln Richard & Betty Zierke Father William A. Family of the Year HM Foster 9518 Ralston Roberto & Tina Silva
Category Award Type Place Agent's Name Council # Home Town Councils Served State 1966, 9918, 10160, Council Fraternalist of the Year Ryan Mascarello 1966 Bellevue 10815, 13956,14470
Category Award Type Place Council Name Council # City Amount Grand Knight $ Intellectual Money Earned 1 1st Imperial 7081 Imperial 3,158.82 Mark Spady
$ Disability Money Earned 2 1st Father Ulenberg 7684 Geneva/Grafton/Shickley 4,091.00 Reginald Sissel $ Money Earned 3 1st Prince of Peace 10923 Kearney 5,748.00 Steve Coram
24 $ Money Earned 4 1st Columban 6192 Bellevue 6,984.74 Joseph M. Ruff
Category Award Type Div. Place Council Name Council # City Percentage Grand Knight
Intellectual Percentage Increase 1 1st St. John The Baptist 11810 Pender 463.01% Mark Svoboda
Disability Percentage Increase 2 1st St. Patrick of Elkhorn 14914 Elkhorn 310.58% Edward G Biwer Fr. Joseph Percentage Increase 3 1st Vanderheiden 3152 Nebraska City 150.41% Bruce E. Stanley
Percentage Increase 4 1st St. Joseph 2272 West Point 51.23% Justin Steffensmeier
Percentage Increase 1 2nd Fairbury 4434 Fairbury 265.33% Randall S Prellwitz Immaculate Percentage Increase 2 2nd Conception 14470 Omaha 99.51% John Bosco Eric G. Barnsten Percentage Increase 3 2nd Our Lady of Lourdes 13080 Omaha 77.17% (Acting)
Percentage Increase 4 2nd St. James 1728 Kearney` 34.88% Mark A Glatter
Percentage Increase 1 3rd Victor Vifquain 7704 Crete 96.47% Robert A. Seidhoff
Percentage Increase 2 3rd Count Creighton 1238 Creighton 91.19% Cory Frisch
Percentage Increase 3 3rd St. Leo the Great 10965 Omaha 67.99% Joseph From
Percentage Increase 4 3rd Fitzgerald 833 Lincoln 29.99% James Stell
After the awards presentation, Deputy Gasper presented bishop Hannefeldt two checks, one was the proceeds from the Christopher Fund and one from the Nebraska Culture of Life foundation for $10,000 to be sued for pro-life programs within his diocese.
SATURDAY, APRIL 28th, 2018 – MORNING FORUM This year’s program was a “The Call to Discipleship.” The program was led by Patty Marmie and Joy Martin from St. Michael’s parish in Lincoln and a DVD presentation from John Ricardo. The program concluded with the exposition of the Eucharist. Several priests were in attendance and confessions were offered which many took advantage of.
SATURDAY, APRIL 28th, 2018 – NOON LUNCHEON The noon luncheon was held in the Crystal Room at the Younes Conference Center, Kearney, Nebraska. The “2018 Family of the Year” was awarded to the Deacon Ted and Cindy Menzel family from Council 6192 in Bellevue. Deputy Gasper also presented two checks to Archbishop Lucas, one from the Christopher Fund and one from the Nebraska Culture of life Foundation for $10,000 to be used for pro-life programs within the Archdiocese.
SATURDAY, APRIL 28th, 2018 – BUSINESS MEETING State Deputy Gasper called to order the State meeting of the 113th Annual Convention in the 3rd Section at 1:45 PM in the Diamond Room at the Younes conference Center. Deputy Gasper called on State Warden Wolf, “Are all present in possession of a current membership card and are they seated in their proper seats. Warden Wolf so vouched. Deputy Gasper called on Former State Chaplain Fr. John Rooney to lead the opening prayer. Deputy Gasper called on District Master, James Haiar to lead the “Pledge of Allegiance.” Deputy Gasper called on Warden Wolf to escort our distinguished visitor from the Supreme Council, Michael Conrad, PSD, Nebraska, Supreme Director, to the dais. All responded with a hearty Nebraska welcome for Supreme guest, 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 Gasper introduced State Advocate John Svoboda as the Parliamentarian for this Convention. Advocate Svoboda
25 acknowledged the assembly and stated that “Robert’s Rules of Order” would be followed for this meeting. Deputy Gasper called on State Secretary Mark Borytsky to introduce this year’s recorder and to read any communications received. Secretary Borytsky introduced Executive Secretary Raymond Guggenberger, from Bellevue Council 6192. Deputy Gasper asked Secretary Borytsky to read the communications received and to conduct the official roll call and to have the directors collect the ballots for the Best of the Best ICC competition. Delegates are reminded that they must attend both business meetings to receive their expense checks. Secretary Borytsky read the following communications.
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30 Secretary Borytskycontinued, communications were also received from Archbishop Emeritus Eldon Curtis, Bishop Emeritus Fabian Bruskewitz, Bishop Emeritus andFormer State Chaplain William Dendinger, Suprene Director Michael Conrad and the Mayor of Kearney. These communications will be entered into the proceedings without being read and will be available for review when published.
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35 Mayor Stanley A. Clouse City of Kearney 18 East 22nd Street P. O. Box 1180 Kearney, NE 68848-1180 TELEPHONE · (308) 233-3216 FAX · (308) 234-6399 E-MAIL · [email protected] WEBSITE · www.cityofkearney.org
Welcome to Kearney!!
On behalf of the 38,000 people that call Kearney home, I am pleased to welcome back the Knights of Columbus members from across the state to Kearney for your 113th Annual State Convention being held April 28, 2018. Being together for 113 years shows dedication and empathy to such a wonderful organization.
The Knights of Columbus has a long, storied history of community support, patriotism and service. We know that each Council is enhancing the quality of life in their parishes, their neighborhoods and their communities. We are thrilled that you have once again made Kearney your host community and we will do all we can to insure this meeting is your very best meeting. As 600 or more Knights and their families gather in Kearney, we are confident you will find a welcoming hand every place you turn. Kearney is truly a special place and we hope you have the opportunity to take in Kearney and discover: • World-class attractions: The Archway, the Museum of Nebraska Art, the Merryman Performing Arts Center, Cabela’s, Ft. Kearny, the Frank House, Trails and Rails Museum, the Nebraska State Firefighters Museum and Education Center, the beautiful facilities at the University of Nebraska at Kearney and more. • Outstanding shopping from quaint downtown specialty shops to the mall area north of Kearney with discount stores and recognized franchise operations. • Dining opportunities galore including choice Nebraska steaks, succulent seafood, spicy barbeque, Chinese, Japanese, Italian, Mexican and so much more to please your palate. • Lively nightlife with the quiet of a piano bar, to dance bands, to live entertainment. Kearney comes to life when the sun sets! • Recreational attractions including movie theaters, bowling alleys, golf courses, indoor golf, game rooms, swimming, USHL hockey, concerts. Kearney has some of the most beautiful parks including Harmon Park, Yanney Heritage Park, Cottonmill Park with a lake for those who like to fish, and so much more. Kearney has hike/bike trails that go from Ft. Kearney State Recreation Area west to Cottonmill Park, with several areas around and through the community. • The pedestrian bridge along 2nd Avenue to the west allows people staying at the hotels to walk to the Kearney Cinema Theatres. Kearney continues to grow with new construction taking place year round.
We are thrilled to welcome back the Knights and their legacy of service to Kearney. And, we are pleased to roll out the welcome mat to make sure your annual convention a great experience. Welcome back to Kearney . . . enjoy your stay!!
Sincerely, CITY OF KEARNEY Stanley A. Clouse Mayor
We provide services, solutions, and opportunities for our community
36 Secretary Borytsky continued, as a point of order for this convention, any council making a motion, or seconding a motion 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. Directors please collect the ICC ballots as the roll is taken.
State Deputy - present Immediate Past Deputy Hergott - present State Chaplain Reverend Borowiak - present State Secretary Borytsky - present State Treasurer Richardson – present State Advocate Svoboda - present State Warden Wolf - 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 ___2______. 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 ___6______. District #6, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have ___8______. District #7, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have ___1_____. 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 __8______. 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 __4 ______. 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 __3______. District #16, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __2______. District #17, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __6______. 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 __1______. 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 __6______. 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 __6______.
37 District #25, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __3______. 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 __7______. District #29, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __2______. District #30, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __4______. District #31, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __5______. District #32, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __4______. District #33, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __6______. District #34, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __6______. District #35, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __5______. District #36, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __4______. District #37, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __4______. District #38, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __4______. District #39, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __5______. District #40, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __3______. District #41, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __2______. District #42, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __5______.
Worthy State Deputy, the roll call has been completed. I return the gavel. During the roll call vote, the Directors and chairman collected the ballots from the delegates which were provided as each delegate registered. Program Director Schaefer, 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 Borytsky. Secretary Borytsky called on Deputy Gasper for his annual report.
REPORT OF THE STATE DEPUTY State Chaplain, Reverend Father Borowiak, Worthy Supreme Director Michael Conrad, Fellow State Officers, District Deputies, Directors, Chairmen, delegates and members of the Knights of Columbus assembled here in Kearney, Nebraska for our annual state convention on this the 28th day of April, 2018. This is a new chapter in my book of life! It has been a privilege to serve the Nebraska Knights of Columbus as State Deputy during this past year. I would like to express my sincere appreciation for all the invitations to attend your council events. I have tried to attend as many as time permitted and regret I was not able to have the time to attend more. Wish there would be a way to have events coordinated so I could attend them all. And if I was unable to attend I would try to line up a State officer to represent me.
38 To our State Chaplain, Fr. Ken Borowiak, I would like to say thank you for your spiritual guidance and your direction as well as your commitment to fulfilling Fr. McGivney’s vision for us. A special thank you to everyone involved for the time consuming work in putting this convention together. I would be remiss if I did not also thank all the State Officers, Executive Secretary, Program Director and Membership Director for all your friendship, guidance and all the hours you have put in for our State. I could not have done it without each of you. Lastly, I would like to thank my wife Carole for being my right hand helper, proof reader, writer, critic and most of all my support.
Supreme Meetings Carole and I attended the State Deputies training meeting in New Haven, Ct. the first weekend of June 2017. We had the opportunity to meet our fellow State Deputies and Supreme Officers. While in New Haven we also visited the Supreme office building, Knights of Columbus Museum and St. Mary’s Church, the birthplace of our order. At this time we were installed and received our jewel and took our oath to grow the order for Father Michael McGivney’s vision. To think this order the Knights of Columbus, started in 1882 to where we are today over 1.9 million strong. After attending Mass we were then treated to a pancake breakfast in the church basement where Fr. McGivney brought together that handful of men to start the order and had his first meeting. Later in June State Secretary Mark Borytsky and State Membership Director Mark Dwyer attended a training session in Dallas Texas. They received guidance, training and presented with incentives and goals. The Supreme Convention was held in Saint Louis, Missouri in August 2018. We were blessed to have four of our bishops attend the convention with us Archbishop Lucas, Bishop Conley, Bishop Hanefeldt, and Bishop Emeritus Bruskewitz. Our delegates represented Nebraska well, and had the experience of lifetime every Knight should experience at least once. The mid-winter Supreme membership meeting was held in Washington DC in November 2017 at which time Supreme presented motivation and direction on membership goals.
State Meetings July 14, 15 &16, 2017 we had our Grand Knights seminar in Grand Island. All the directors and chairmen were introduced and their new programs presented. As is our custom, all State Officers and District Deputies were installed and took the oath of of their new positions during Mass on Saturday evening. The theme “Encircled by Christ’s Love” was introduced Love is the direction for my term, we are all encircled by his Love Our Supreme Regional Program/Membership Consultant Joe Ramirez provided support for several huddle meetings that our membership team had setup for District Deputies and Grand Knights across the state. These huddle meetings/ town hall meetings were very well received by all those that attended; this is a program we will continue the coming year. At these meetings we also had our Financial Secretary trainers present to work with the Financial Secretaries. Joe also was present for several organizational meetings we held throughout the year with State officers and the membership team.
39 On December 2nd & 3rd, 2017 we held our mid-winter membership meeting at the Ramada in Columbus. This meeting was to provide membership goals for the final six months of the year. We unveiled our new initiative for High schoolers. It’s a program for any senior that joins the Knights would receive an Honor Cord to wear at graduation. This program started in West Point, Nebraska. We also discussed Building the Domestic Church program and each council was to assign a Domestic Church Family Carole and I were appointed as the first Domestic Church Family for Nebraska by our Supreme Knight Carl Anderson. All this information was given to all the District Deputies to take back to their councils. On Saturday evening we had a dinner honoring and roasting our Immediate Past State Deputy Tony Hergott and his wife Laurie for all they had done for the State. I have attended numerous council activities and functions including the Labor Day parade in Schuyler. Membership Membership Director Mark Dwyer and his team should be commended for their hard work in growing the order, with all their incentives and mailings. I could not do this alone, we are a team and each and every one of you are part of this team. I’m also pleased to announce we have achieved our new council development goal of 1 new council. The new is at Saint Francis of Assisi in Lincoln Council 16878. I would like to thank District Deputy Mark Kistler and Manny Gallardo for all their hard work establishing this new council. We are on our way to completing another year of positive growth for the State of Nebraska, We need to strive to continue this long standing tradition with increased membership to keep this alive, we need to control our suspensions. Something new we now have E-membership in Nebraska. Our E council number is 98026. It’s been proven successful in the pilot jurisdictions in the order. As we continue our evangelization efforts, we must remember each of us have 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, remember our fraternal year does not end now it runs until June 30th.
Programs A special thanks to Mike Schaffer (Schaef) and all the directors and chairmen in the State for their success this past year. Without their direction and support some opportunities may not have been realized. From working with our youth at the Free Throw Contest to our spiritual side with the Masses at our State functions these Directors handle a wide variety of behind the scene duties and need to be thanked for all their hard work. The State Council again conducted another extremely successful Coat for Kids project at Saint Mary’s Catholic Church in Grand Island, thank you to the Grand Island Councils for their support and the many officers and directors that helped make this possible. And thanks to Supreme for their match coat for coat of those purchased by various councils and the State council. Our ICC program just keeps growing ICC, Gold, Silver and Bronze qualifiers were recognized at last night’s awards banquet. A total of 8 Gold, 9 Silver, and 44 bronze winners receive awards, with 17 new councils receiving plaques for the first time. That is 61(35%) 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 Our three State General Agents, Kevin Pfeifer and Tony Swanson, and Neil Pfeifer have continued to provide Brother Knights with some of the best insurance products available. We
40 are privileged to have such good leadership in our State. We need to thank them and their agents for all of their assistance during our membership drives in our local parishes.
Ceremonials Tom Schmitz and PSD Larry Reed, as co-chairmen, have scheduled all the major exemplifications across the state during the past year. They have worked hard with the various ceremonial teams to provide opportune time for all councils to provide the chance for members to become Third Degree Knights. They keep trying to build Ceremonial teams and they could use more help. Squires This the first year we do not have a State Squires circle
Fourth Degree Our Fourth Degree is the most visible degree that non Knights recognize. This year Supreme introduced a new uniform that will replace the old regalia. This will go into full effect July 1, 2019. We strongly encourage all Third Degree Knights to complete their journey to full Knighthood by joining the Fourth Degree. State Master PSD Jim Haiar continues to make sure that the Honor Guards and Color Guards perform whenever a request for their services is made.
Vocations Many councils support the RSVP program which provides financial assistance and prayerful support to Seminarians and Postulates. On the State level the annual Sweepstakes raffle makes it possible for monetary donations to these vocations, this year we gave every seminarian a check for 250.00 on your behalf. Thank you to Father Borowiak for his personal touch in sending all seminarians a hand written letter. The state has received many thank you cards for your support. We have been averaging a little over $20,000 in sales of Lottery ticket. I want to thank all of you who support these two worthwhile programs. Your efforts are well received.
Christopher Fund In 1993 the Nebraska jurisdiction voted to participate in the Christopher Fund in which deposits made by Nebraska are matched with monies from Supreme. At this time we can deposit $5 per member and the interest received from this account is dispersed annually. Our current contribution $132,030.00 and has been matched by Supreme for a total of 264,060.00. This year’s interest amount totaled $9,391.61 with the Omaha Archdiocese receiving $4,789.72, Lincoln Diocese $2,629.65 and Grand Island Diocese $1,972.24. I will present these three checks this weekend. Culture of Life The Culture of Life couple, Brian and Mary Jo Hamik, represented the Knights at numerous Pro Life functions across the state. The Buck a Month program is being utilized by many Councils. Half of those funds come back to the Council for their local Pro-Life needs. This year Pro Life envelopes were again used in conjunction with the prayer cards in the parishes and resulted in an increase of funds. This year the state donated $15,000 to Beginnings
41 Pregnancy Resource Center in O’Neill for the purchase of an Ultra sound. We are gaining in the fight against abortions!
Intellectual Disabilities Foundation This Foundation is directed by Don and Terri Hypse. They have done an outstanding job in managing the funds and handling the various requests coming to the state for funding. Tootsie Roll weekend is the most successful fundraisers for this Foundation. One half of the funds raised by your council can be returned to a deserving organization in your council’s community. On September 16th, 2017 Executive Secretary Ray Guggenberger, Don Hypse, IPSD Tony Hergott, and myself met with Lt. Governor Mike Foley to proclaim October 8 -15th, 2017 as “Support Citizens with Intellectual Disabilities Week” in Nebraska and encouraged all citizens to support the Knights of Columbus in this worthwhile effort.
The McGivney Foundation This foundation is being directed by Manny Gallardo and Dan Wells. The McGivney Foundation has a current funds value of $617,559.12 we keep growing closer to that $1 Million dollar mark. There are many ways to make donations, cash gifts, and gifts of stocks, mutual funds, grain, life insurance policies, and memorials.
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 Tony Hergott, 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 As a State we use the Courier to relay information to all members of the Knights in the State of Nebraska, I would like to encourage the FS’s to remember that the Goodrich’s need to be notified with any changes to their roster to insure that all members to receive the Courier. As a member if you do not receive the courier online I would encourage all members to go to the Web site and register for online copies of the Courier. By doing that we could save the state a lot of money. The Web page is a place for more immediate communications that can be checked daily for updates timely information on upcoming degrees, ICC information and much more. You also have access to many fillable reports. State Council does have a state Facebook account. 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. I would like to thank Ron, Duffi and Aaron Goodrich for their many volunteer hours making all our communications available. Our prayer chain is being administered by our Executive Secretary Ray Guggenberger. Through its utilization prayers can be requested from over 26,000 Knights in the State. Ray has taken on this ever growing job and you can count on this email very early every morning. I thank him for this job well done.
District Deputies
42 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 Again I would like to thank our Bishops and State Chaplain Fr. Borowiak for their support and prayers. I also want to thank all of the State Officers, Executive Secretary, and District Master for your friendship your hard work and the many hours to make this a well-run organization it could not be done without your support you have always had my back. A Thank you to John Lukowski, for putting his trust in me all those years ago when he asked me to be District Deputy and help grow the order at a time Nebraska was adding council’s state wide. I know he wishes he could be here with his brother Knights. His Program director at that time now our Supreme Director Mike Conrad, Mike has been a mentor, advisor, sometime a critic but most of all Mike has been a friend, to help me along this journey, a journey of a lifetime. Without the help of our Insurance Agents across the State my job would have been impossible. Thank each of you for all you have done to help grow the order and spread Father McGivney’s vision across this great state of Nebraska. I also need to thank Rob Ostdiek & Pat Rupp, Convention co-chairmen, who have been a very important part in putting this weekend together. Many hours of required to put together this great weekend. Thank you to Mark Dwyer and the membership team for all they have done to continually grow our order. Without Mark and his team our message would not be relayed. Mark and Julie have become very close friends, Carole and I thank you. Also thanks to Joe Ramirez Supreme Membership/Program Consultant, for his many trips to Nebraska to help our membership team and myself. I don’t know how I can express my gratitude to Mike (Schaef) and Shelly Schaeffer for their countless hours and contribution throughout the year helping us put together all the programs presented, which is very important to the growth of the order as Schaef says “Strong Council Programs Drive Membership” Schaef has always been there to keep me on track, I rely on him a lot. Schaef and Shelly we have become very close friend’s Thank you! Thank you to all of you the council leaders for putting you trust in me, without your compassion and understanding we could not grow the order. Always remember your success is the success of this the great state of Nebraska and the order! As always I need to thank all the wives that have allowed their husbands to do the great work the Knights perform in our State. Without their understanding and support we as Knights could not accomplish all we have done. A very special thanks to my wife, Carole, she is my best friend, my rock. Carole proofs my email correspondence and corrects my mistakes along the way. She has attended numerous council functions with me and we have truly enjoyed meeting new friends across the State. My final thanks to all you my Brother Knights in the State of Nebraska who have allowed me to serve you as your elected leader and put your trust in me this past year. Please remember by the
43 jewel around my neck I take each and every one of you my brother Knights and your families with me in my thoughts and prayers. God Bless all of you, God Bless the Knights of Columbus God Bless America!
Respectfully submitted, Lou Gasper Nebraska State Deputy
CHAPLAIN’S MEETING The Nebraska State Knights of Columbus chaplains’ meeting was held Friday, April 27, 2018 at the Fairfield Inn in Kearney Nebraska. The meeting was facilitated by Bishop Joseph Hanefeldt of Grand Island with 26 priests from the Archdiocese of Omaha and the Dioceses of Grand Island and Lincoln present. Bishop Hanefeldt spoke about the real need for and value of fraternity within the priesthood. Chaplains present spoke about their individual assignments and the real value of shared prayer and their identity as priests in the various parishes and apostates that they are assigned to. They also spoke of their hopes and dreams as priests and their relationship with their bishops. Nebraska State Deputy Lou Gasper visited the meeting and thanked the priests for their response to the Lord’s vocation for them, their service to the Church and their membership in the Knights of Columbus. The chaplains noted the good turnout of priests at the meeting and spoke of encouraging additional priests to attend future state conventions. Respectfully submitted, Father Kenneth Borowiak State Chaplain
STATE SECRETARY Worthy State Deputy Lou Gasper, Worthy Supreme Guest and Director Mike Conrad, Worthy State Chaplain Fr. Borowiak, Worthy State Officers, District Deputies, Directors, Chairmen, Delegates, and Brother Knights attending the 113th Annual Nebraska State Convention in Kearney, NE, on April 27, 28, and 29, 2018. I respectfully submit my report: As State Secretary my responsibilities were several; recording the official minutes of all state meetings, including monthly tele conference calls, collecting per capita, collecting and recording all delegate forms received for the convention. Credentials received from 115 councils for attendance at the State Convention resulting in 210 delegates being seated for the business meeting. Maintaining records therein, classifying expenditures and income, writing official letters for the state, traveling to many council functions, meetings, and degrees as assigned by our State Deputy. In preparation for this year’s State Convention, letters were drafted to Supreme Knight Carl Anderson, Bishops residing in the state, and the Mayor of Kearney, inviting them to our
44 State Convention. Letters of greeting were received from Supreme Knight, three of the Bishops residing in Nebraska, and the Mayor of Kearney. It has been a pleasure and an honor for Audrey and I to travel across the state to the many different council activities as assigned by our Worthy State Deputy. To all our brother Knights and their families thank you for all you do in the name of the Knights of Columbus. Your heart felt support for your church, council, and community is overwhelming and appreciated by too many to count. May God Bless the Knights of Columbus, you my Brother Knights, and your families.
Respectively Submitted Mark Borytsky STATE TREASURER Worthy State Deputy Lou Gasper, Worthy State Chaplain Father Borowiak, Religious, Worthy Supreme Director Mike Conrad, Worthy State Officers, District Deputies, Delegates, Directors, Chairmen and Brother Knights attending the 113th Annual Nebraska State Convention in Kearney Nebraska, 27-29 April 2018. 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 2017 - I managed all funds received and disbursed for the State General, Lottery/Sweepstakes accounts and the Disaster Relief fund. I am also accountable as a co-signer for 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 2017 - Sent on behalf of our state Christmas cheer of $250.00 to 72 Seminarians identified by the three dioceses, addresses ranged from Seward Nebraska to Rome Italy. Along with the check was a Christmas note from our State Deputy. December 2017 - Attended the Mid-Year meeting. Mileage and Per Diem checks were prepared/distributed with no issues. April 2018 - 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 major degrees as a representative of the State Deputy. Joining the candidate’s through their religious and learning experience 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 truly enjoy being your state treasurer it is an honor representing our state to supreme and many organizations. Connie and I look forward to whatever journey is ahead of us faithfully serving our Parish, Council and Community. Thank you for your support and friendship, we will continue to pray for you and your family. May God Bless you.
45 Respectfully submitted, Matthew R Richardson
STATE ADVOCATE Worthy State Deputy, Supreme Representatives, fellow State Officers, District Deputies, Directors, Chairmen, Delegates, and Brother Knights, since taking office as the State Advocate on July 1, 2017, I have performed the following:
1. Became a Utilization of Funds member for the license held by the Nebraska Knights of Columbus lottery account, filed zero activity reports to the Nebraska Department of Revenue Gaming Division for the quarters ending September and December 2017, filed Form 22 with the Nebraska Department of Revenue to suspend reporting on payroll taxes for the State Council; reviewed the audits prepared by Dana Cole for the State Council and related subordinate entities.
2. Rendered legal opinions for the State Council, Executive Committee, and State Officers concerning State Council matters as requested.
3. Rendered legal opinions for local council officers on a variety of issues concerning local councils.
4. Reviewed contracts, performed legal research, drafted correspondence, and created other documents concerning various issues.
5. Attended many scheduled and called State Council Meetings and for State Council subordinate entities and local council functions.
6. Participated or advised in several disciplinary actions needed pursuant to the laws of the Order.
7. Reviewed the State Council’s liability insurance coverage.
8. Solicited and prepared proposed Resolutions for the 2018 Nebraska State Convention and will be Chairing the State Resolutions Committee and prepared to present the Committee’s recommendations to the assembled State Council.
Thank you to my fellow State Officers, Supreme Representatives, District Deputies Delegates and Brother Knights for your warm welcome fraternal support in my first year as State Advocate. It is a great honor and privilege to serve as the State Advocate.
Fraternally yours, John A. Svoboda, STATE WARDEN Worthy State Deputy Lou Gasper, Worthy Supreme Director Mike Conrad, Worthy State Chaplain Father Borowiak, Worthy State Officers, District Deputies, Grand Knights, Directors,
46 Chairmen, Support Staff, Delegates, Brother Knights and our families welcome to the 113th Annual Nebraska State Convention in Kearney Nebraska the weekend of April 28,2018. I respectfully submit my 2017/2018 report starting with attending all meetings called to order by the State Deputy and performed all assigned tasks successfully. The Mid-Winter meeting and Testimonial for IPSD Hergott held in Columbus, NE during December 2017 was a huge success. All meetings held were informative and well received by the attendees. Lottery tickets were handed out with detailed instruction to their dissemination and collecting of tickets and funds. Ads submissions for the state convention program book were mentioned for support. Chris and I were able to attend many different functions around the State, being able to visit with old friends and make new ones. On behalf of State Deputy Lou Gaspers, I was able to represent the State Family at different Degree functions around the State. My next major project was selling ads for the Program Book given out at the State Convention in April 2018. The knights and outside organizations did well submitting ads and we collected approximately $2,000 toward offsetting the cost of the Convention Program Book. A special thanks to Duffi Goodrich for her expertise, support and understanding during this extensive process. Along with the ads will be the selling, collecting and keeping count of the lottery tickets at the State Convention. With the help and guidance of my Brother State Family members I believe that I will survive it. This Fraternal Year, my first as State Warden, has been an exciting experience for Chris and I. I am blessed that the over 26,000 Brother Knights, through their convention delegates, voted me into the State Warden position. I would not have been able to do what I needed to do without the help and advice of a number of people. My fellow State Officers, Lou, Mark, Matt and John have been there to help me muddle through what I need to do. Father Borowiak has been our faithful guide in keeping us pointed in the direction that our Lord wants us to go. Ray Guggenberger as always has been my mentor and sounding board when things start to go south. Our Immediate Past State Deputy, Tony Hergott, taught me so much as his Program Director and continues to help me find my way through the darkness. Special thanks to Father Rooney, your friendship means so much to me. Rich, Gail and the boys, Mike and Mary Conrad, Don Ferneding and many more that have helped Chris and I on our journey through the Knights. May God bless you and your Family. Respectfully Submitted, Robert D. Wolf
PAST STATE DEPUTY Worthy State Deputy Louis Gasper, Worthy Supreme Director Michael Conrad, Worthy State Chaplain Father Borowiak, Worthy State Officers, District Deputies, Directors, Chairmen, Delegates and Brother Knights assembled here for the 113th annual State Convention in Kearney, NE, April 27-29, 2018, greetings and may the Grace and Peace of Christ be with you. It has been an honor and a privilege to serve the Nebraska State Council as Immediate Past State Deputy. I attended all scheduled State Councils meetings and represented the State at several local council functions as directed by our State Deputy. I have performed my Immediate Past State Deputy duties to the best of my abilities, including (but not limited to) coordinator for the state disaster relief fund, chairman of the annual audit committee, and mentor to the current State Deputy.
47 I also worked with the State Membership team providing statistics and charts while tracking weekly and monthly membership growth activity. State Deputy Gasper recently appointed me as Nebraska’s first ever E-Membership Chairman. In July, at the State Grand Knight Seminar in Grand Island, I started collecting financial documentation from the State Council, Intellectual Disabilities Foundation, Culture of Life Foundation, and McGivney Foundation necessary for the annual audit. Said documentation was submitted to Certified Public Accountants Dana F Cole & Company by Aug. 1, 2018. All audits were completed by Oct. 15, 2017. No material errors and/or concerns were found by the auditing firm. The audits were then forwarded to Supreme Secretary, Michael J. O’Connor. All State Council entities filed required Tax Exempt 990 Forms prior to the Nov. 15 deadline. Laurie and I proudly represented the State Delegation to the 135th Supreme Convention in St. Louis, MO, Aug. 1-3, 2017. We were honored to receive the Pinnacle Circle of Honor Award from Supreme Knight Carl Anderson for the 2nd straight year on behalf of the great state of Nebraska. We attended the State Mid-Year meetings in Columbus Dec. 1-3, 2017. Thanks to State Deputy Lou Gasper and all the state officers for the awesome testimonial dinner on Saturday evening in our honor. It was truly a humbling and memorable evening we will forever cherish. In closing, thank you to each of the more than 26,500 members across the state for their continued commitment to evangelizing our Parish Communities and living out the Gospel principals of our Order. Vivat Jesus! Respectively Submitted, Anthony W Hergott
EXECUTIVE SECRETARY Worthy State Deputy Louis Gasper, State Officers, Delegates and Brother Knights attending the 113th Annual State Convention in Kearney, Nebraska on April 27, 28 and 29 April 2018. 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 112th Annual State Meeting in Kearney for 2017. I prepared and mailed to all councils the semi-annual per capita billings for State Secretary Borytsky. Due to the post office misrouting the July 2017 per capita billing, the statements were sent electronically via email. The feedback from the council Financial Secretaries was very positive. The original mailing was located and eventually arrive at all the councils. The officers approved sending the January 2018 per capita billing via email. We have some minor issues, however, the first time as an email only billing, it went fairly well. The State Council saves approximately $125 when we use email. During this past year I assisted in preparing 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 the 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 86% complete. The Semi-Annual Audit for the period ending June 30, 2017 is 86% complete and for the period ending December 31, 2017 is 77% complete. At this time we have 29 councils that
48 are two or more reports delinquent, 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; we have been 100% for the last 23 years per Supreme records. It is the same council’s year-after-year that does not submit these vital reports; 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 on-line with Supreme. For the 2017-2018 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, subordinate councils send these on to their individual members and we estimate that approximately 18,000 brother knights receive these requests for our prayers. Only 2 councils do not have email addresses. 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 Lou Gasper for the opportunity to continue to serve as the State Council Executive Secretary. I have served in this role for 18 years; I look forward to continuing my service to our order. Respectfully submitted, Ray Guggenberger
DISTRICT MASTER Worthy State Deputy Lou Gasper, State Officers, Fellow District Deputies, State Directors, Delegates, & Brother Knights. I respectfully submit my report of the annual meeting of the Knights of Columbus, 4th Degree which came to order at 3:05 pm Friday, April 28, 2017. After the opening Prayer and Pledge of Allegiance the District Master introduced Leland Weber as the State Marshall. District Master Haiar reviewed 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 will 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. One new assembly was instituted during the past year. An option for the chalice club was introduced. Instead of the chalice the Holy Mass crucifix was offered as an option. This is available through the District Master for a cost of $60. A “Quilts of Valor” blanket was presented to Ray Guggenberger during the meeting by District Master Haiar and the maker of the quilt Carol Weber. District Master Haiar thanked the degree team for another successful year. Their efforts and dedication to the 4th degree is very much appreciated. Meeting adjourned at 4:32 pm.
Fraternally, Jim Haiar, PSD District Master of Nebraska
49 Deputy Gasper called on Treasurer Richardson for the report of the Mileage and Per Diem Committee. MILEAGE AND PER DIEM COMMITTEE Greetings to you Worthy State Deputy Lou Gasper, Worthy State Chaplain Fr. Borowiak, Worthy Supreme Director Mike Conrad, Worthy State Officers, District Deputies, State Directors and Chairmen, Delegates and Brother Knights attending this the 113th State Convention held at the Younes Conference Center in Kearney NE, 27-39 April 2018. The Annual State Meeting of the Mileage & Per Diem Committee met on Saturday, 28 April 2018. The meeting convened at 8:00a.m. with assigned councils represented by either their Grand Knight or their Council delegate. I opened the meeting with a Prayer then led the Pledge. Meeting agenda started with the mileage rate of $0.45 per mile one way and Per Diem rate of $15.00 a day was discussed no action was recommended by the committee. It remains the same. There was no further discussion. The meeting adjourned following a closing prayer at 8:25 a.m.
Respectively Submitted, Matt Richardson State Treasurer
Treasurer Richardson for the adoption of the committee report, seconded by Council 2373, motion passed. Deputy Gasper announced the winner of the Best of the Best Intra-Council Competition; Council 7034, Fr. John P. Brock, Valley is the Best of the Best. Will the Grand Knight or a representative come forward to receive the traveling award. Grand Knight Vern Ortmeier accepted the award. Deputy Gasper reminded Grand Knight Ortmeier to return the belt to next year’s convention. Deputy Gasper called on Supreme Director Michael Conrad for his remarks.
State Deputy, State Officers, District Deputies, Brothers, All: It is an honor to be here with you today. I bring with me the best wishes and thanks of Supreme Knight Carl Anderson and the rest of the Supreme leadership. Without your faith and commitment to the goals of the Knights of Columbus, our Church, and our communities, we would not be able to carry out the incredible work of our organization. Your work and support touches so many lives. And as you heard from the Supreme Knight, the reach of our Order was wide-ranging in 2017. Once again, we had a record year in charitable contributions—more than 75 million hours of service and $177 million in charitable work and donations. A few examples include: Our ultrasound initiative is growing, and we have placed more than 900 machines. We are on track to reach our goal of 1,000 machines placed by 2019. Support of religious minorities in the region has reached almost $19 million since 2014. Our long-standing support of the Special Olympics continues to positively touch the lives of people with intellectual disabilities.
50 Individually, these programs represent an incredible effort by you and your fellow Knights to protect the sanctity of life and strengthen our church and our faith. And when you look at this work as a whole, it is quite humbling to say the least.
Core Messaging Along with recognizing your achievements, I want to share the priorities of the Knights of the Columbus as we look towards the future. As you heard from the Supreme Knight in his video address, we are highly focused ensuring the long-term sustainability of our organization. Our membership has not grown in a meaningful way in the U.S., and it has been declining for the last five years in Canada. With this in mind, we spoke to men all over the U.S. to get their thoughts on the Knights of Columbus. The men we spoke with were all practical Catholics we would consider prospective Knights. We also spoke with current Knights. Some of the key takeaways from these conversations are: While all of the men had heard of us, they could not name a single program we are involved in; We are viewed as an older group of men who are resistant to change and unwelcoming to younger men; We are associated mainly with local events like pancake breakfasts and fish frys; Even among the current Knights, there is a lack of knowledge about the Order’s work and our reach. How can an organization of our size, strength and devotion struggle so much in this area? Clearly we need to take a look in the mirror to figure out how we can do better and be honest with ourselves about what is needed to carry out the vision of Venerable Father McGivney long into the future. Here are four things we can begin to ask ourselves: How are we raising awareness through education of our own brotherhood about our activities so that our Knights can be the best ambassadors for our organization? Are our communications vehicles the right ones to connect with current and prospective Knights, and are our messages cutting through? Do our methods of recruiting new members include the right balance of fraternal support while being family friendly and relevant to younger men? Are we willing to change well-loved but outdated practices that are not attractive to younger men? Are we being leaders—not only within the Order but also in our parishes and communities?
Raising Awareness through Education & Communications As I mentioned, it has become clear that there isn’t a deep awareness of what the Knights of Columbus organization is and the ways we help people in our communities and across the globe. We can greatly enhance our effectiveness if we take the time to communicate the full scope of what it means to be a Knight of Columbus. We’ll do this through a variety of channels—both in the media and through YOU. This year, our communications team will work closely with the fraternal mission to ensure that you
51 and your councils have the tools and support to help your council and local parish learn more about our initiatives. This will be key to our recruiting efforts.
Recruitment We firmly believe that raising the profile of the Knights of Columbus through education will directly and positively impact recruitment. There are many facets of our organization that are compelling to younger men today. They are interested in the idea of a fraternal organization. The want to contribute time and skills to the community. And they are interested in support our causes and taking a step to develop their spirituality. Together, we can work to ensure that new and younger men in your communities and across the globe are aware of the opportunities for personal fulfillment and growth through the Knights of Columbus. With our current Knights serving as ambassadors and mentors, we will not only help sustain our organization, we will invest in the future of our faith.
Adapting and Evolving Something else we learned through our conversations with men is that there are elements of our Order that are not compatible with the realities of the schedules and interests of younger men today. Today, a man’s work can follow him home through his smart phone. At the same time, he is picking up a larger share of household responsibilities as wives increasingly work outside the home. Plus, the demands of fatherhood have become more intense as the pace of kids’ activities has accelerated. We have learned that many men are drawn to opportunities to be hands-on and to express their faith by working alongside their peers in service to others. And in terms of how they spend their precious free time, they want to involve their families. Rather than seeing these men as unsuitable for our Order, we should be excited about their appetite to pitch in and the chance for us to adapt accordingly. As the Supreme Knight said, if we can’t meet young Catholic men where they are, they will go somewhere else. And in this era, it is too easy to go somewhere else when we need them to be home. Home in the Catholic Church, home in their parishes, and home with their families. What’s wonderful about the Knights of Columbus is that we can feed men in all of these ways. We can help them get involved in projects that feed their souls through their contribution of time and service. And we can support them as they seek to develop their spiritual selves in a manner and pace that is comfortable to them.
Local Leadership The Knights of Columbus is already an organization filled with leaders. How else could we pull off what we do year after year? But this year, we are asking you to challenge yourself as leaders to embrace these new priorities and to leverage the resources in your own parishes like your pastor and the bulletins. We also hope you will take advantage of the resources we offer from Supreme such as the Building the Domestic Church programming. You can be a role model to fellow Knights who see you embrace new ways to support our mission such as through our e-membership program. You can be a mentor for younger men
52 who would welcome an invitation to get involved. And you can be a trusted advisor and supporter of your local pastor and parish. Ultimately, this is what being a Knight is about. Being a leader who stands up for those who can’t stand up for themselves and who forges a path forward. This may, at times, require changing how we do things, but we see an outcome in which Knights of Columbus councils become true cornerstones of parish life.
Growing the K of C I also congratulate you on efforts thus far to beat the drum about the Knights of Columbus. You have likely heard a recurring theme from the Supreme Knight Carl Anderson over the last few years—we have an aging membership base, and the future of our organization rests on our ability to attract new and younger members. Yet with membership flat lining, we have not yet unlocked the secret to attract new and younger members. So we are appealing to you--our fellow brothers and our families and friends—for even more assistance in this area. You are the best recruiters and ambassadors we could have for our organization. And we want to truly take advantage of your passion and pride for the Knights of Columbus as we seek to grow our Order. Growth can come from how you run your council on a day-to-day basis. Are you appointing strong leaders? Do you meet with your pastors regularly and leverage them as recruiters? Do you leverage the church bulletin to connect with your local parishes? Are you thinking about younger members when you design community activities and offering them the gift of your mentorship and guidance? And are you opening yourself up to new approaches like e-membership? Be a catalyst for change and find ways to open up your council to men of all ages. Let them know that you can accommodate their schedules and share with them that the Knights are an organization that incorporates their entire family in its activities. These are all simple ways that we can work towards expanding membership within our own communities.
Raising our Profile Additionally, as part of this push for growth, the Supreme Knight Carl Anderson has set a goal for us to raise the profile of the Knights of Columbus. In this room, we know that we are a group of men who are dedicated to our faith, our families, our communities, our country and beyond. We want to make the lives of others better while fulfilling our own need for brotherhood and service. Outside this room, people do not know much about us. They know our name. There’s a chance that they have attended a pancake breakfast or a fish fry, but that is about the extent of their knowledge of the Knights of Columbus. We want to change that. And we plan to do so by doing a better job of telling our story. And, of course, it’s not just one story. It’s the story of 2 million men who take the time out of their own busy lives to help others. Telling these stories more loudly, more broadly, more strategically, and in a compelling way that connects with people.
53 As an example of this effort, we have developed and launched a new video series called "Everyday Heroes" that shines a light on Knights whose courage, faith and commitment to charity truly embody the spirit and special nature of the Knights of Columbus. We have been sharing these videos on our website and through traditional and social media.
Faith in Action What is Faith in Action? Simplified Program Model that allows for concentration on quality, faith and family oriented programs. This is not a “new” model—just an update to what we already had in place with a simpler and more streamlined structure. When will the updated program be implemented and will this affect awards criteria? Details will be made available over the coming months with full implementation effective July 1, 2018.
Building the Domestic Church What is the Building the Domestic Church initiative? This initiative is about strengthening our parishes and growing the Order. In promoting each family as a domestic church, the Knights of Columbus primarily seeks to integrate our members and their families more fully into the sacramental and social life of the parish. What do we mean by when we say each family is a Domestic Church? We mean that each family is an assembly of believers that together participate in the work of God. By using the Scripture term "domestic church," we emphasize that family is not simply a social concept, but rather a state of life established by God. Why is the initiative being promoted by the Supreme Council? By building upon our programs and encouraging councils to more fully integrate with the sacramental and social life of their parish, we hope to strengthen our members’ families, revitalize our parishes and grow our Order. How does this initiative affect our councils? The Domestic Church initiative was designed to help councils refocus on the Order’s mission to strengthen families and revitalize parish communities. To do this, the council must prioritize family activities and support the needs of pastor. Knights should keep the pastor informed about all the resources their council can offer.
e-Membership How does eMembership differ from membership in a local council? Members who join online (“eMembers”) are members of the Knights of Columbus who have not yet taken a First Degree or been admitted to a local council. As a member, like all members of the Knights of Columbus, you will have the right to purchase insurance on yourself, your spouse and any dependent children. You will receive Columbia magazine, the free accidental death benefit (age restrictions apply), and are eligible for participation in the family fraternal benefit. You may also attend select local and state council events which are promoted by your state division. What are the membership dues/fees for members who join online? eMembership dues are $30.00 per year across all jurisdictions. Dues are paid online to the Knights of Columbus Supreme Council and they cover both the member’s state and supreme membership fees. If a
54 member transfers to a local council, the dues are pro-rated to that council. Debit cards and credit cards are accepted as forms of payment by the Supreme Council. Doesn’t this program dilute the meaningfulness of Knighthood for the traditional members? We do not believe so. This pilot program will help to grow our organization, which will strengthen the role of a Knight across our Order. It is meant to support our membership goals, including developing a new way to introduce men to the activities of our Order that would strengthen and benefit all councils and members.
Regalia What led to the decision to change the 4th degree regalia? While those who have worn the old 4th degree regalia are proud of it, it is just as true that many Catholic men will not join the Knights of Columbus or the 4th degree because they have strong negative feelings about that uniform. Couldn’t we have made the change incrementally? When is the deadline to make the change? We could have had a smoother roll-out of the new uniform, including communicating further in advance and having the necessary stock to fulfill demand. In light of this, the Supreme Directors have authorized that the old regalia may continue to be used during the 2018-2019 fraternal year.
Degree Ceremony Developments In the U.S. the average number of attendees per First Degree is 3.6 and in Canada 4.5. Need help achieving goals? Councils should schedule more degrees on a regular basis. Getting members receive the Third Degree makes sense in helping him grow in his role as a Knight. Once a member becomes a Third Degree member the odds that he will be a member for life will increase. It comes down to engagement. Members that become engaged will be stronger and more vibrant members.
Fraternal Training Fraternal Training Portal - Access for selected officers through K of C Homepage www.kofc.org provides: Interactive Landing Page Vision and Mission Oriented Officer Learning Opportunities Access to KofC Educational Video Library Six courses — District Deputy, Grand Knight, Deputy Grand Knight, Financial Secretary, Council Officer, and Personal Recruitment Skills are active, and Membership Retention is in the works. Fraternal Training Portal has an open Enrollment Site where any member can access the same courses that are available on the Fraternal Training Portal - signup or sign in at www.kofc.org/trainingmicrosite. Officers and Members that complete courses will receive KofC incentive gifts for each course. Webinars are conducted about monthly and more that 25,000 officers and members attend. The feedback is dynamic: members report that the webinars are extremely informative and provides council action steps to be more successful and build stronger relationships with the pastor and strategic alliance partners.
55 Register for the next webinar at kofc.org/webinar. Also available at that site is the link to the on demand webinar archive.
Safe Environment Before Volunteering With Youth, Be Sure to Meet These Requirements Members are expected to comply with all necessary and applicable diocesan safe environment requirements to participate in youth activities on parish property. Members should contact their parish safe environment representative or diocesan safe environment coordinator to find out which diocesan safe environment requirements apply to the programs, activities and events sponsored by the council on parish property. Additionally, the grand knight and the youth director of every Knights of Columbus council must complete all requirements of the Knights of Columbus Safe Environment Program. All grand knights and youth directors are required to take online training shortly after accepting their leadership positions. To participate in this training, follow the information included in the email invitation sent from our partner in youth protection, Praesidium. If a grand knight or youth director has not provided an email address to the Supreme Council, login instructions will be sent to him by mail. Youth directors are also required to undergo a background check because they are responsible for coordinating council youth activities. Praesidium will send an email requesting authorization to perform this background check. Within 30 days of receiving this request, each youth director must give his consent to Praesidium, authorizing the background check.
This training and background check must be renewed every two years for as long as members remain in either of these two roles. Please email questions to the Office of Youth Protection at [email protected] or 203- 800-4940.
Telling Your Story, Telling our Story Give a high priority to publicizing the charitable projects of your council. Consult the resources on Knights.net, which provides quick and easy tips on publicizing your events before and after they have taken place. Please also alert your state officers and the Supreme Council Communications and Strategic Planning Department about significant projects.
Conclusion In conclusion, I want to reiterate the importance of your role in helping to building a strong future of the Knights of the Columbus. It hinges not only on enhanced visibility, education and a greater focus on recruitment. It also requires leadership and willingness to evolve. What will never change, however, are our core principles of Charity, Unity, Fraternity and Patriotism. What we also must preserve is our local connection to communities; our approachability, helpfulness and willingness to get our hands dirty. I think that we can all agree that our membership has made us better men, better Catholics, better husbands and better fathers. We feel grateful to the men who recruited us. Now we can offer the same opportunity to others.
56 Thank you for your time today, for the good work you do each year, and your ongoing commitment to the legacy of Father McGivney and today’s Knights of Columbus.
Vivat Jesus!
Deputy Gasper thanked Director Conrad for his remarks. Deputy Gasper continued, during the Officer’s meeting on Dec 4, 2017 in Columbus, Nebraska, it was moved, seconded and the motion passed to open nominations for our Supreme convention in Baltimore, Maryland. St Louis, Missouri. Informational letters were provided to all subordinate councils in January of this year. The nominee background sheet must be turned in to Secretary Borytsky at the recess of this meeting. Nominations are closed at this time. Secretary Borytsky will have additional copies of the nominee background form available. The Chair will now entertain a motion that this meeting be recessed and reconvene at on Sunday, April 29th, 2018 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 Baltimore, Maryland. Council 2373 so moved, seconded by council 11001. Motion passed. The meeting was recessed at 4:05 PM.
SATURDAY – ARIL 28th, 2018 – LADIES PROGRAM The afternoon featured a program by Joy Martin, from St. Michael’s parish in Lincoln, led a session on “The Feminine Genius”.
SATURDAY – APRIL 28th, 2018 – MASS The Most Reverend James D. Conley, Bishop of Lincoln Diamond of the Younes Conference Center. Concelebrating were Rev Kenneth Borowiak, State Chaplain, and Monsignor Ivan Vap and Fr. John Rooney, Former State Chaplains. Several seminarians from St. Gregory the Great assisted in the liturgy. Master Haiar provided a 4th degree honor guard. The collection was for the Lincoln Diocese and 3 parishes starting a perpetual adoration program. The congregation donated $2,642.00 which was added to by the State Council vocations fund for a total of $3,500. PSD Larry Reed presented the necrology, which follows:
Necrology Knights of Columbus Mass Kearney, Nebraska – April 28, 2017 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. The Following served as District Deputy
57 Dennis “Don” Svoboda Served 1986 to 90. His Council Home was #1717 in David City and was a 4th Degree Member of the St. Thomas Aquinas Assembly Marion J Schutte Marion first served as District Deputy 1974 to 1976. At that time, Marion was a member of Council 5315 Cozad. After he moved to Grand Island, he served two years as District Deputy from 1982-84. He was a member of St. Anthony Council #9562 in Grand Island and was a member of the John L Paschang Fourth Degree Assembly Bernard R Burger District Deputy 1981-85. Bernie served on the Omaha Third Degree Ceremonial Team for 30 years. Bernie was a member of Council #652 in Omaha and a Member of the Father Michael P Dowling Assembly in Omaha. Willie Fanta Served two terms 1977 to 82 and 1994 – 95. Willie was a member of Count Creighton Council #1238 in Creighton. John Richard “Dick” Hawes District Deputy 1984 – 88 Dick also served our Jurisdiction as Diocesan Coordinator from 1983-84, Family Director from 1988-90 and Financial Secretary Chairman from 1995-96. In 2002, Dick was named the Nebraska Knight of the year. He was a member of Council #1123 in Hastings and a Past Faithfull Navigator of Pope Pius XII 4th Degree Assembly in Hastings. Oh, Heavenly Father,
We commend our departed into your hands. We thank you for letting them be a part of our lives.
58 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
SATURDAY – APRIL 28, 2018 – STATE BANQUET Following Mass, a no-host social was held in the Crystal Room of the Younes Conference Center. The main banquet was held in the same room. Deputy Gasper introduced Bishop James Conley, Bishop Lincoln Diocese. Bishop Conley 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”. Deputy Gasper presented 2 checks, one from the Christopher Fund to Bishop Conley for the Lincoln Diocese and one for $10,000 from the Nebraska Culture of Life Foundation to be used for pro-life programs within the diocese. Deputy Gasper introduced Supreme Director Michael Conrad, from Fort Calhoun Nebraska, the principal speaker for the evening. Director Conrad’s remarks follow: Your Excellency Bishop Conley, Worthy State Deputy Gasper, State Officers, District Deputies, Brothers, Wives and special guests: Thank you for joining us for this celebratory evening. It’s an honor to recognize the great work of your jurisdiction this past year and to salute you on your continued efforts to embrace and drive all of the Order’s key programs. As we shared earlier, 2017 was a record year in charitable contributions—more than 75 million hours of service and $177 million in charitable work and donations. Our national and international activities get a lot of attention – programs such as our ultrasound initiative that is on pace to save a million lives. Our support for Christian refugees in the Middle East. And our involvement with Special Olympics. But as we all know, so much of our work happens in our towns and in our parishes. It happens when there’s a flood, and we are there. It happens when a widow’s home needs repairs and we are there. It happens when the pastor needs the Knights for a funeral honor guard. And we are there. Here in Nebraska you recorded $2,282,758 in charitable giving, which is an average of $87.43 per brother in Nebraska. You also recorded 969,000 of community service, 103,000 hours of service to the sick and disabled, made 104,688 visits to the sick and bereaved and donated 13,866 pints of blood and recently your State Deputy received a $4,000 check to present to Special Olympics of Nebraska for your partnership award. Congratulations on such an amazing show of love for your fellow man.
Building a Domestic Church
59 I am also so pleased that our wives and families are here because I want to talk about why they are such an important part of what we do and are our partners in Building the Domestic Church. At a time when the world seems especially chaotic and the culture keeps trying to redefine the roles of men, the ideas of Knighthood and family have become even more important. Consider these facts: Since 1973, the marriage rate among Catholics has declined by 73 percent. As marriages have plunged, so have baptisms. So have first communions. So has the number of students in Catholic education and so has the number of Catholic priests. Yet, the statistics tell us something else. Married couples are twice as likely to be “very happy” in their lives. Married couples have 2 fewer weeks of sick days per year. Children from intact families are half as likely to drop out of high school. The truth is that families matter. And this is why we have made our Building the Domestic Church initiative a fundamental part of what we do. The Domestic Church is Christianity lived at home, in your parishes and in your councils. In short, it embodies the family that lives out the components of the Church. It is how the family and council strive to model Jesus in deliberate ways. In practical terms, it means saying you’re sorry. Don’t hold grudges. Care more for the needs of others than you do for your own. The Domestic Church also describes the family and council that chooses to live contrary to the moral relativism that dominates our culture. And it is the family and council that prays together and performs acts of charity because this is what God has called them to do. Unfortunately, too many men are missing this opportunity. When you bring a man into the Knights of Columbus you are giving him a chance to be part of something bigger than himself. When he takes our principles to heart, he becomes a better husband and a better father. Joining the Knights is a key step to becoming a great man.
Thank You to Our Wives On that note, I want to take a moment to speak directly to our wives. I think it’s fair to say that many of us would not have had this chance if it weren’t for a gentle push from you. You often see within us a strong desire to be a better version of ourselves. I believe, you, in your wisdom, have recognized that this opportunity to achieve our full potential and grow our faith has a far-reaching effect — in our culture, in our community, and in our homes. You are not expecting us to leap tall buildings in a single bound. (Though we all know that you would like us to fix that leaky faucet.) But you do see the importance of our striving to be the best men of service, faith and leadership we can possibly be. For recognizing this incredibly important truth, I want to say “thank you.”
Persecuted Chrismation Relief Initiative For almost 7 years we as an Order have fed, clothed and provided medical care for men, women and children of Syria and Iraq whose lives have been turned upside down all because they have one thing in common, they believe in Jesus Christ.
60 Last August at the Supreme Convention in St. Louis the Board of Directors made a historical vote on an initiative that is going to help many of these Christians to begin to put their lives back together, live in a community again, we voted to build and rebuild homes in Karamles Iraq. This small town, many like right here in Nebraska, will be the location of 500 new and rebuilt homes for these families who have thought the world has turned their back on them. For $2,000 we are able to place a family into a home, the fathers then can gain employment and he then will start to provide food, clothing and medical needs for his family and in doing so restoring the pride that comes from being the head of the household. This initiative was announced to the delegates and their wives by Supreme Knight Carl Anderson at his annual address at the Supreme convention, it was further enhanced when Bishop Yousif Habash a Syrian Rite Bishop shared devestating details of families that fled their homes to escape their execution for their beliefs. After hearing the inspiring, sad but truthful words from the Bishop I had the opportunity to embrace him and thank him for his leadership and his support, he in turned blessed me and told me that it is the Knights of Columbus that is going to solidifying the future our faith by helping these families. While I may not have been the only one who made contact with the Bishop I felt that I had made a spiritual connection with him and I know of others who did too. If I may I would like to talk about one council that took to heart this initiative and went the extra mile for these persecuted Christians. In March Council 10305 from Fort Calhoun, a small town much like Karamles, hosted a two day three event fundraiser called Rebuilding the Cradle of Christianity. The Council as able to make arrangements for Bishop Habash to travel to Nebraska to be a presenter and to be the celebrant at a Syrian Rite mass at St Cecilia’s Cathedral. The event also featured a persecuted Christian, a Catholic man, who escaped his public trial and execution by ISIS, Gabriel Jabbour. This council didn’t miss an opportunity when they found out that Gabriel was a practical Catholic, the Council held an Admissions Degree and brought Gabriel into the Order shortly before the event was held.
The event asked the patrons of three things: 1. Pray for these families 2. Listen to the presenters and allow the program to educate you with the truth 3. If you are able to offer financial support please consider supporting this event. Now on the Tuesday following Thanksgiving, giving Tuesday, the Order dedicated the charitable gifts received that day to this cause and the Order raised over $138,000 worldwide, through the generosity of the Knights of Columbus in Nebraska, the patrons who attended the event and the sponsors of the vent, the Rebuilding theCradle donations that will be close to meeting the Giving Tuesday’s amount and possibly exceeding it. It is so rewarding for me to be able to say that this event, unique as its own, was held in your jurisdiction and has turned the heads of many across the country, many who now maybe inspired do something similar to support this great cause.
Everyday Heroes During World War II, the great fighting admiral Bill Halsey, encouraged his men by telling them that no one is born a great man. But, he said, there are many ordinary men — men like you and me — who rise to the occasion and meet the great challenges of their times. Then, it was the harrowing months following Pearl Harbor. Today, it’s the challenge of living a life of faith and service in a culture that too often values neither.
61 The Supreme Knight said it this way: “Christ didn’t seek perfect men for his apostles, and we do not seek perfect men for the Knights of Columbus. We seek good men who are looking to be better men, and then we give them the opportunity to be great men.” When it comes to the Knights, it’s time to tell this story. It’s time to show the impact we make. And it’s not just one story. It’s the story of nearly 2 million men who take the time out of their own busy lives to help others. That was the genesis of a new 9-part video series called "Everyday Heroes" that shines a light on our brother Knights whose courage, faith and commitment to charity, unity, fraternity and patriotism truly embody the spirit and special nature of the Knights of Columbus. We have been sharing these videos on our website and through traditional and social media. So what do you think? Pretty good, right? If a picture if worth a thousand words, these videos are worth a million. So far, the response has gone beyond what any of us thought it would be. The first two videos, alone, were seen by well over 500,000 people. And it was especially gratifying to see a priest on EWTN incorporate the story of one of our heroes into his homily. You can’t get better advertising! The videos are a great way to show your friends, families and neighbors this important piece of your life, and we expect, these stories will inspire more men to join our Order. Please show them at your open houses. Send them to your friends. Make them a particular focus of your council’s recruiting efforts. Of course, videos and social media are not the only way to get the word out. The tried and true methods are often the best. There will never be a substitute for simply asking men in your parish to join. Our most important brand ambassador – the key to our future success – is you! When we think of hero’s many think of an athlete, or a movie character such as Superman or Batman but when I think of a hero I try to focus on the everyday hero. People like you and me, there are many of you who have served as police officers or fire fighters or served in the military and if any of you here tonight and have served in one or all of these areas I thank you and salute you. A hero can be anyone of us who strive to make life better for others, for example Julie Dwyer an teacher, a woman who for years reached out to the children she taught and in her success helped mold the future. Tim Nowak, one of our own, a man who through his witness of his wife’s medical journey chose to become an organ donor when he donated one of his kidneys for a person whose life was extended because of his gift. How about a mother who chooses to carry her baby to full term when there is a risk of her own life in doing so, the truest testimony of a mother love. A hero doesn’t have to be an adult, a child or a teenager can be one too, what about the teen that goes to the assisted living homes to help with monthly activities or the scout that picks up trash along the highway so that their community will look presentable when people through or a 4yr girl named Kalin who overheard her parents talking about kids being persecuted in the Middle East and went and emptied piggy bank and asked if she could donated all she had, she donated $2.05 for the kids of Syria and Iraq. Clergy definitely make the list of heroes, for their endless sacrifice to the church and to us their flock especially the Blessed Fr Stanely Rother, a priest of the Oklahoma Diocese that was martyred in Guatemala in 1981 for his preaching and teaching of the faith, a priest who’s Rite of Beautification was celebrated on September 23, 2017. Last but not least a hero many that may know of or many of us that it might be, a hero that I’ll refer to him as “Jim”. “Jim” is a faithful, loving, caring dedicated husband and father. He worked hard to provide for his family, he handled all challenges, good
62 and not so good, that came his way, he coached his kids, he prayed at church, and he loved his wife from the day he took his vows to the day he held her hand as she took her last breath. “Jim” is a man that has lived his faith and has taken it seriously and he lives by example as he lives as a role model for his children and grandchildren, “Jim” is an everyday hero, and I pray that each of us can be an everyday hero like “Jim”. If you’re a man of faith and prayer. If you’re striving be a good husband and father. If you’re willing to follow Pope Francis’ plea to go to the peripheries and help those in need, then rest assured, my brothers, that you will be noticed in your parishes and in your communities. You will be a beacon. You will be an everyday hero. The choice is yours. The future of our order – the legacy of Father McGivney – is in your hands. Let’s provide this opportunity to others, just as someone once did for us. The more that we grow, the more that will be accomplished, the more lives that will be changed. This is a shared mission. It’s the mission of our entire Knights of Columbus family. I ask you now to join me on that mission. Commit tonight to bringing more men into the Order. Embrace our new programs. Build the Domestic Church. Be an everyday hero because, my brothers, the world needs us now more than ever. Thank you for your commitment to the Order and to Venerable Fr. McGivney’s vision and may God Bless each of you and may God Bless the Knights of Columbus. Vivat Jesus,
Deputy Gasper thanked Director Conrad for his remarks. Deputy Gasper called on Daniel Wells and Many Gallardo, the Father McGivney Foundation Advisors. They acknowledged 3 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 Gasper called on the Director of the Institute for Priestly Formation. Thomas Pogge. He presented Former State Chaplain John Rooney with a commerative medallion in recognition of the donations to the Institute in his honor. Deputy Gasper continued and asked Past State Deputy John Smith to conduct an oral auction for the benefit of the Father McGivney Foundation. Deputy Gasper called on Warden Wolf asking if he was prepared to conduct the raffle. Warden Wolf directed his Assistant Wardens to go and sell and collect any last minute raffle tickets. Warden Wolf asked Bishop Conley to draw the winners:
1st Place Winner $2,500 Mary Feda from LaVista 2nd Place Winner $1,000 John Vanderbeek from Kearney 3rd Place Winner $750 Council 11879 from Bellevue 4th Place Winner $500 Ralph Gors from Columbus
Deputy Gasper announced that Mass on Sunday morning would be at 7:45 AM in the Diamond Room. He continued by stating the business meeting would reconvene at 9:00 AM in Diamond Room. He also stated the State Council hospitality room was open.
63 SUNDAY, APRIL 29, 2018 – MASS Mass was held in the Diamond Room. State Chaplain Borowiak presided. Approximately 250 people attended.
SUNDAY, APRIL 29, 2018 - LADIES BRUNCH Mrs. Gasper hosted a ladies brunch in Diamond 1 of the Younes Conference Center. State Chaplain Kenneth Borowiak visited with those attending about his trip to World Youth Day in Poland and his trip to Rome.
SUNDAY, APRIL 29, 2018 – BUSINESS MEETING Deputy Gasper reconvened the meeting at 9:00 A.M. All persons not having received the honors of membership in the third section shall please retire from 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 Gasper called on Warden Wolf 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 Wolf stated all were in possession of a current membership card and all delegates were properly seated. Deputy Gasper called on Chaplain Borowiak asking that he lead is in an opening prayer. Deputy Gasper called on Master Haiar to lead us in the Pledge of Allegiance. Deputy Gasper called on Program Director Michael Schaefer for his report. Director Schaefer requested that his report and that of all activity directors and chairmen be entered into the proceedings without being read. Council 15101 so moved, seconded by Council 13576. Motion passed. Program Director Worthy State Deputy Lou Gasper, Worthy State Chaplain Father Ken Borowiak, Worthy Supreme Guest Mike Conrad, Worthy State Officers, Worthy District Deputies, Directors, Chairman, and Brother Knights attending our 113th Annual State Convention in Kearney, Nebraska April 27–29, 2018, greetings. It has been my honor and pleasure to serve as your State Program Director this year. I want to thank our State Deputy Lou Gasper for asking me to serve on his State team. To all of my Directors and Chairman, thank you for the outstanding job that you have done for the State team and our Councils around this great State. You have gone over and above what was asked of you. It has been my privilege to serve alongside you. I also want to thank all of the State Officers who have mentored and helped me grow into this job. Without your guidance, support, and encouragement it would have been a lot harder to succeed. To our worthy Supreme MPC, Brother Joe Ramirez, thanks for providing guidance and support to our State team. I want to add a special thank-you to our Immediate Past State Deputy Tony Hergott, PSD and Supreme Director Mike Conrad, PSD and District Master Jim Haiar and our Executive Secretary Ray Guggenberger. You guys have been my mentor and I’m proud to call you a Brother Knight. This was year three for both the ICC program and Building the Domestic Church initiative. Both programs were a huge success. We had 17 Councils win their first ICC award this year and we will give out a total of 61 ICC awards at the State Convention. I know that the ICC program is one reason why many of our Councils really pushed their membership numbers in February and March, and we need to keep that momentum going through the end of our fraternal year. We continue to have success in educating our Councils on the Building the Domestic
64 Church initiative. Both the Program and Membership teams worked very hard to ensure that the Grand Knights both understood and followed the guidelines of this critically important Supreme led program. In July we met for our annual Grand Knight/Financial Secretaries/District Deputies Seminar in Grand Island. A large percentage of Councils and District Deputies attended. The Program and Membership teams did an outstanding job educating our Grand Knight’s on the changes to the Building the Domestic Church program. In December, we met in Columbus for our Mid-Year meeting. This year was also Immediate Past State Deputy Tony Hergott’s testimonial dinner. Knights from around the State along with members of Tony and Laurie’s families attended. State Membership Director Mark Dwyer and his pro-active membership team did a wonderful job covering all aspects of recruiting and retention. They also thoroughly explained the upcoming membership incentives for the rest of the fraternal year to include the new High School initiative and E-membership. In November, our Youth Director ran a very successful State Soccer Challenge at Grand Island Central Catholic High School. We had over 35 competitors across six age groups. In April, we held our annual State Free Throw Contest with over 90 contestants competing at Grand Island Central High School. Our Special Events/Athletic Chairman raised funds for the State Council by organizing both a State golf and bowling tournament. In March the State Officers, Chairmen and Directors met at St. Michael’s in Lincoln to select our annual awards for the State Convention. A special thanks goes to our State Chaplain Fr. Borowiak for allowing us to use his facilities. Father Borowiak set the spiritual tone as he does for every meeting with a wonderful sermon during morning Mass. This leads us to our 113th Annual Nebraska Knights of Columbus State Convention in Kearney. We are joined by Knights from around the State to celebrate our accomplishments from the past year while renewing the bonds of fellowship and brotherhood. We are once again honored to have one of Nebraska’s PSD’s and current Supreme Director Brother Mike Conrad and his wife Mary from Fort Calhoun attending our State convention. On Friday night we will honor the Councils and individual Knights for all of their outstanding programs that they have worked on so hard throughout the year in support of their priest, parish and local community. We will also recognize our top Field Agents who work 24/7 to protect our Knights and their families. On Saturday we will honor the State Family of the Year, reinforcing that the Knights are and always will be “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 want to thank State Deputy Lou Gasper and his wife Carole for their trust and friendship in selecting me as their Program Director. I cannot think of another team that I would rather serve with. They truly live our State motto, “Encircled by Christ’s Love”.
Respectfully Submitted, Mike Schaeffer
Council/Community Director Worthy State Deputy Lou Gasper, State Officers, State Directors, Delegates and Brother Knights. This was my first year as a Director and the first year the State Council and Community Director positions were combined. The two positions were difficult at times but with all of your
65 support it was tolerable. I feel combining them was a good decision. I want to especially thank Program Director Mike Schaefer for all his guidance and direction. My first task was setting up the route for the Running of Silver Rose for 2017. It came in from Colorado by way of Wray to Benkelman on August 20th. A total of 31 councils hosted the Rose for 29 days. A total of 38 services were held with 4198 attendees throughout the route. The Rose travel 926 miles across Nebraska. A big thank you goes to all the host councils and their attention to details. I didn’t receive a single issue call during the 29 days. My congratulations goes to Falls City Council 1336 and to all those who attended the transfer to Hiawatha Kansas on an impressive border ceremony. It was an honor to pick the Knight of the Year award for the 113th annual Nebraska State Convention of the Knights of Columbus. A total of 26 excellent applications were submitted which made the job very difficult. There are a lot of fantastic Knights in Nebraska and it’s sad that only one can be chosen. There were a total of 35 Council Activity Award applications and 73 Community Activity Award applications. It was a daunting task of selecting 5 or 6 Council Major Activity Award applications and 5 or 6 Community Activity Award applications for the State Officers and Directors to make their selection. In addition, I also, provided 9 applications for the prestige’s Leonard Feehan Award selection. As Community/Council Director I attended the June 17, 2017 Chairman/Director meeting in Lincoln, the GK and FS meeting in Grand Island, and in December 2017, the Mid Year meeting in Columbus, (PSD Hergott’s Testimonial dinner). On March 17, 2018 I attended and presented applications for the “Award Selection” meeting in Lincoln. Respectfully Submitted, Jim Pelster Church Director Worthy State Deputy Lou Gasper, State Officers, Delegates, and Brother Knights attending the 113th Annual State Convention in Kearney, Nebraska, on April 27, 28, and 29, 2018. Gentleman, THANK YOU for all your help this year. A big Thank You to every everyone who helped Julie and I with all the Masses this year. As Church Directors, it has been very rewarding to work with all the Priests and Bishops who have helped at the activities we have done for the State. This year “Keep Christ in Christmas” had an increase to 45 councils who participated in this event this year. We had 14 new councils participating. This year we also promoted the “In God We Trust” sticker program. A Big Thank you to all the councils who embraced this new program. We look forward to working with more councils to improve sales in these areas. In closing, the biggest thing we all need to remember is to put God first in all that we do in our life. The definition of God is Love and through God all things are possible. Respectfully submitted Mark Main Family Directors Worthy State Deputy Tony Hergott, State Officers, Delegates and Brother Knights attending the 113th Annual State Convention in Kearney, Nebraska, on April 27, 28, and 29, 2018. Our 3rd year as State Family Directors has been an enjoyable, spiritual, humbling, and a learning experience. We are honored to serve as directors. During the 2017-2018 year there were 47 Family of the Month reports submitted. 9 Family of the Month winners from Nebraska
66 were selected as Supreme Council Awardees that won the drawing. We received 26 letters of nomination for the State Family of the Year award. After reading each letter and accompanying materials, we narrowed the field to six finalists. At the state awards meeting on March 18, 2018, in Seward, Nebraska, the first place, the 2nd place, and two honorable mentions winners were chosen. Ted & Cindy Menzel were chosen as first place from council 6192. Terence & Patti Veylupek from council 11879 were chosen as 2nd place. Roberto & Tina Silva from council 9518 were chosen as a honorable mention family. Richard & Betty Zierke from council 13576 were chosen as the other honorable mention family. Also we had 56 activities reported for family activities awards and the Supreme Award was chosen to give to 10047 for a family event involving their annual awards & families together, and the State Award was given to 12086 for a 100th anniversary event of “Our lady of Fatima”. We wish to thank State Deputy Lou Gasper and State Program Director Mike Schaeffer for the honor and opportunity to serve the state Knights of Columbus. Respectfully submitted, Jeff and Ginger Wardyn
Youth Director Mission accomplished! Fraternal Year and highlights of three successful great annual events this year! Our Knights of Columbus Annual Soccer Challenge was held 11 November 2017, last fall, had 200 to 300 youth participants which was a huge increase from 2016. The challenge included shots-on-goal and points were given for corner and center ball placement. A big” thanks all” to the youth, parents, family and Knights volunteers who helped make this such a great competition. Two poster themes for this year's contests were, "Keep Christ in Christmas”, and” Drug and Alcohol Abuse Awareness". Our State Judges were amazed by the creative ways that the posters captured these timely topics. We are hoping that several posters will be recognized at Supremes’ National competition. Lastly, on April 7, we held the finals of the Knights of Columbus State Basketball Free Throw competition. Nebraska youth from border to border participated in an age bracketed free throw contest. The combined free throws percentage was over 85%. Congratulations to all that participated. See the attached Participant List. This year, Knights from the local Grand Island Councils ran a Concession Stand that was a big hit. Squires programs transferred official sponsorship to local parish control. They now operate within individual council/parish guidelines for safe environment and focus on growth of the domestic church in their local communities. Our dedicated Knights counselors and volunteers maintain circles with youth integrating further into their parish life, in Bellevue, Omaha, Lincoln, Valparaiso, and Columbus. Special thanks to the Knights of Columbus including the District Deputies, Grand Knights, and Brother Knights for sponsoring this years' events. Thank You for generously donating your time, talent and resources. Our success is due to everyone in the Knights of Columbus "family".
Respectfully submitted, David Marx Culture of Life
67 Worthy State Deputy Anthony Hergott, State Officers, Directors, District Deputies and Brother Knights of the 113th State Convention held in Kearney, Nebraska, April 27 thru April 29, 2018: It is an honor and a privilege to serve the State of Nebraska Knights of Columbus as your Culture of Life Directors. We continue to be amazed by the generosity of the Councils in the State of Nebraska. Your One Rose One Life Campaign and the Buck-A-Month donations allow the Culture of Life Foundation 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, Beginnings in O’Neill, Bethlehem House, Cradle of Christianity, Essential Pregnancy Center, Pregnancy Resource Center of Beatrice and Women’s Resource Center of North Platte, these organizations support women and children in crisis. We also supported the annual March for Life in Washington, DC by donating funds totaling $21,000 across the 3 dioceses in Nebraska. Culture of life funds also supported, Nebraskans United for Life, Lincoln Area Right to Life, and South Central Right to Life, Maverick Students for Life, UNL Newman Center, and the Thomas More Society. To date the Culture of Life Foundation, with the help of the Supreme Ultrasound Initiative, has assisted in placing NINE ultrasounds throughout the state. 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 Louis Gasper, State Officers, State Directors, Delegates, and Brother Knights attending the 113th Annual State Convention in Kearney, Nebraska, April 27 through 29, 2018: 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 2017 - 2018, 75% of the local Knights of Columbus Councils participated in the fundraising drive for people with intellectual disabilities. At the Intellectual Disabilities Foundation meeting in July 2017 it was decided to change the way the foundation handles major donations. In the past we made major donations on an unsolicited basis. We have now developed a “Request for Funds” form. We mailed a letter explaining the changes and a copy of the request form to nine organizations that we have made donations to in the past. The Request for Funds form has also been added to the Nebraska Knights of Columbus state web site, www.nebraskakofc.org. 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. We will be stepping down as Health Services Directors at the end of this fiscal year, as Don will be taking on another role for the Nebraska State Council. We have truly enjoyed our time as Health Services Directors and are confident that the Intellectual Disabilities Foundation will carry on its great work for the people of Nebraska. Respectfully Submitted, Don and Terri Hypse
68 Vocations Director Worthy State Deputy, Officers, Delegates and Brother Knights, I am honored to serve as the Vocations Chair for the Nebraska Knights of Columbus State Council. It has been very edifying for me to see all of the different ways that our Knights councils are supporting vocations with their financial, spiritual, and moral support. To my Brother Knights, thank you for your participation in supporting not only our seminarians, but also women that are entering religious life. I am certain that we are only seeing part of what is actually being done to support vocations, due to the low number of councils that submit forms for the ICC awards. My goal for the coming year is to see the number of submissions at least doubled. I have spoken to members of multiple councils that have told me of ways that they have supported seminarians, yet the councils did not submit paperwork for the ICC awards. As the father of a seminarian, I can tell you first hand that your support is much appreciated. I have heard from countless seminarians as well as priests, voicing how much it meant to them knowing that they have the support of the Knights of Columbus. Weather it is participation in the RSVP program, leading a Rosary for vocations, or hosting an event at your parish, your support is helping “Keep the Faith alive” in our Church. Let’s keep up the great work of supporting or Priests and Religious in the coming year. If your council is planning an event, make sure to be involved in it. If your council isn’t currently doing something to support vocations, encourage them to start. Thank you again for ALL that you do for Christ’s Church. God Bless Wayne Crome
Convention Coordinator Co-Chairmen Pat Rupp and Rob Ostdiek, along with Lou Gasper, met with Jim Jakub and Larry Miksch in Columbus for the purpose of knowledge and materials transfer. The meeting was a productive meeting providing future thoughts for guidance and past experience. Jim and Larry were also gracious in offering future assistance or guidance. From that meeting we began our Grand Knights Seminar planning and strategy for July of 2017 in Grand Island Nebraska. At that event we coordinated procurement of rooms for the State Leadership team and the Saturday evening buffet held at the Grand Hotel. In all we coordinated rooms and meals for 126 participants that requested rooms, meals, or both. 182 meals were served by our count. In December of 2017 we again coordinated rooms and a Saturday evening buffet meal at the Ramada Convention Center in Columbus NE for the Mid-Year meeting including the Testimonial for PSD Anthony Hergott. For this meeting we coordinated rooms, meals, or both for 100 participants. 154 meals were served by our count. As of the writing of this report we have begun the coordination of the 2018 State Convention to be held in Kearney NE April 26 thru 29. This event will expand our planning and strategy with 4 meals and babysitting and other events that we may be asked to assist with. Additionally, attendance at this convention is significantly greater than the previous two events. To assist our efforts and create greater ease for participants in procuring their meal tickets we are piloting an on-line meal ticket procurement with Eventbrite. While there are fees associated with this we’re hopeful that it will not be an obstacle for participants and they will recognize the value and efficiency of on-line procurement of the meals and efficient payment method. We will also
69 support the traditional mailed form with payment by check as well to ease the transition and assure a backup plan. In general, we feel we’ve supported the State in this role and been successful in the events coordinated to date. We have provided input to the many forms and processes utilized for these various events, we’re thankful to the leadership in receiving that input and implementing some of our ideas. For a proposed future state of primarily on-line registrations, much more change will be needed and I believe we can continue to make small appropriate and effective changes as we move forward. Some of our challenges have come in understanding the various gratuities extended to the many members of the State Team and how it changes from event to event. For people with considerable experience it seems more routine, for incoming people it is challenging to navigate and fully understand. We desire to develop a more formalized document that can be reviewed and approved by the State Leadership team. This document could then be reviewed annually or when significant changes in the leadership team occur. We believe that having a document such as this would be beneficial to current and future members of the State Team, plus it could be something that could be more widely circulated providing greater transparency. This understanding could empower the coordinators in making decisions for events and allow the State Leadership group to have greater trust and confidence in the Co-Coordinators. We are thankful for this opportunity to assist our Brother Knights on all levels and will continue to work to do His will. Fraternally and Respectfully, Rob Ostdiek & Pat Rupp
Financial Secretary Worthy State Deputy Louis Gasper, Worthy State Chaplain, Worthy State Officers, State Directors, District Deputies, and Delegates to the 113th 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. We also conducted Financial Secretary Training during the Regional Huddle meetings held across the state (Norfolk, Omaha, Scottsbluff, Lincoln, Grand Island, and McCook). 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 transfer members into a council; How to report a death of a member; 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
70 computing the new fee schedule necessary for Honorary members to cover Supreme and State assessments; and other miscellaneous questions as they arose. Respectfully submitted, Michael Vaughn, and Mitchell O'Neill
Athletics/Special Events Worthy State Deputy Lou Gasper, State Officers, District Deputies, State Directors, Chairpersons, Delegates and Brother Knights. I respectfully submit my report for the State Athletics Chair. This past year the Athletics chair sponsored two events. The first was the State Golf Tournament which was held on September 23rd and 24th in Grand Island Nebraska at Indian Head Golf Club. Thirty one Brother Knights golfed and then attended the Mass and dinner at the course club house. The State Bowling Tournament was held over four weekends in February and March at West Point Nebraska. Chris Kreikemeier D.D. 42 was the tournament director. Twenty four teams and over one hundred brother knights bowled and enjoyed this event. We will have two golf outings in 2018. The first will be on June 2nd in Bellevue Nebraska at Tregaron Golf Course. The second will be on October 6 in Grand Island Nebraska at Indian Head Golf Club. They are a 4 person scramble and will be open to any Catholic age 18 or older. The state bowling tournament should be finalized at the state convention. I would like to thank our Worthy State Deputy Lou Gasper the State Officer and my Brother Knights for the opportunity to serve as State Athletics Chair. Respectfully Submitted Joseph F. Bober Website ICC Reports Changing from filling out online forms for ICC Reports (formerly Logbook) to interactive PDF forms seems to be working okay. Any problems stem from reporters not reading or understanding instructions. However, after I remind them how to proceed, reports are submitted. Facebook Page The Facebook page is being visited and added to on a regular basis. With several people at the administrative level watching over the posts, nothing inappropriate is added or remains online. Website Visits to nebraskakofc.org is higher than previous years, according to Google Analytics. From Jan 1, 2017 to Dec 31, 2017 we’ve had 66,003 page views with an average duration of visit 5 minutes 12 seconds. Average pages per session is 4 (session=stays on the site looking at multiple pages). We should encourage members to have the site as their home page.
Respectfully submitted, Aaron Goodrich
71 Publicity The form in the program book offers many options and is easy to fill out or the council can make up their own summary sheet. Even with this, not many councils submitted any type of report to be eligible for a publicity award. I have had many councils send photos and articles for me to post on our Facebook page or to add to Courier. I count them as submissions even if there is no room in Courier. Respectfully submitted Ron Goodrich
Courier I’m still receiving many requests to manually change addresses from family members and Knights themselves. When possible, I contact the FS of the council the person has moved to. If an elderly person in a care facility, I notify the current FS. I cannot manage the large number of request address changes myself from issue to issue. The changes must be made at Supreme to guarantee they are correct for future issues. FSs have been very attentive and proactive when I contact them about these changes. Depending on the budget for the fiscal year, Courier cannot go beyond 24 pages and I often have to let a council know I cannot run their photo/article. I do, however, advise them that these will be counted toward a publicity award. Respectfully submitted, Duffi Goodrich
Deputy Gasper called on Membership Director Mark Dwyer for the report of the Membership Team. Director Dwyer requested his report be entered into the proceedings without being read. Council 2411 so moved, seconded by Council 10965. Motion passed.
State Membership Activities Membership Team Mark Dwyer Director Tom Schmitz Regional Director Al Pfeiffer Regional Director John Courtney Regional Director Ignacio Cervantes Regional Director Rod Hofschulte, PSD Regional Director Don Ferneding, PSD Regional Director Scott Bonham Regional Director Kevin Ostdiek Regional Director
Worthy State Chaplain, State Deputy Gasper, State Officers, District Deputies, Directors, Chairmen, and members of the Knights of Columbus, greetings.
72 The State Membership team attended all required meetings scheduled by State Deputy Gasper and participated in several ongoing conference calls to organize and administer the State’s membership programs. As of April 25, 2017, Nebraska is at 73.33% of our Supreme quota with 660 new members, 240 short of our goal of 900. Additionally, as of April 2, 2018, 11 councils have met or exceeded their individual membership goals for the year while another nine 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 1 with the creation of “Father Kenneth Walker” Council # 16878 in Lincoln, Nebraska. The actions of District Deputy #9 Mark Kistler and Foundation Adviser Manuel Gallardo were essential to the successful creation of this council, as was the help of Regional Membership Director Kevin Ostdiek and State Deputy Gasper. The State Membership Team assures the new council of their continued help and assistance and wishes them success in the future. We are monitoring the possibilities of new councils in Omaha and Mead. Regional Director Don Ferneding is working on cleaning up the suspended Wymore council’s roster and moving the remainder of their active members into surrounding councils. Don is moving to resolve the Wymore council suspension issues before June 30, 2018 and then will concentrate on the Mullen council. 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 Craig Vavak, who has already met his membership goal and to Mark Kistler, Glen Kampschneider and Chris Kreikemeier, who have reached at least 75% of their goal as of April 1st. The Membership team is working with our Regional Membership Director Tom Schmitz to ensure that Nebraska meets its Supreme goal of 65 Round Tables reported. As of April 1st, only 22 Round Tables were reported to Supreme. We will work diligently with the District Deputies and Councils to get the Round Tables registered before the end of the fraternal year. Regional Membership Director Ignacio Cervantes is putting together a diocesan plan based on what the Iowa Knights of Columbus implemented in their State to increase the Hispanic involvement and recruitment in Nebraska. Starting in January of 2018, we’ve been mailing out a monthly newsletter providing recruitment techniques and membership information. Regional Director Rod Hofschulte and my wife Julie have been instrumental in making these mailings possible. We’ve enjoyed some success in the HS Initiative program, and I’ve noticed the councils that have recruited these young men are excited about the Honor Cord program. We will be handing them out at the State Convention. We’re hoping to expand and grow the program through the remainder of 2018-19 and beyond. Membership retention, has been a struggle so far this year. As of April 25th, we are at 469 or 74.44% of our Net goal of 630 and 94 or 29.84% of our Net/Net goal of 375. Regional Director Rod Hofschulte, with the assistance Regional Directors John Courtney and Al Pfeifer and State Deputy Gasper, have worked very hard in this area to minimize the loss. Thank you for your efforts. Finally, it’s been an honor to work with the membership team, and I know I can count on your continued dedication and support. With your efforts, we can ensure another year of growth
73 in the Nebraska Jurisdiction. Thank you for all your help so far this year, and I look forward to working with all of you as we finish this year strong and take that momentum into the next.
Fraternally, Mark Dwyer
Ceremonials Co-Chairmen
MAJOR DEGREES IN NEBRASKA FRATERNAL YEAR 2017-18 CO
DATE LOCATION HOST DD 2nd Degree 3rd Degree State Representive Pat Dougherty 7/23/2017 #2272 West Point DD42 Bellevue Omaha Dan Gilbert 7/30/2017 #2681 Scottsbluff DD31 Scottsbluff Scottsbluff Kevin Ostdiek 09/24/17 #1904 Hebron DD26 Lincoln Lincoln Bob Ostdiek 10/9/2017 #14077 Gretna DD06 Bellevue Gretna Rod Hofschulte Monday Evening 10/21/2017 #10160 Omaha DD04 Omaha Omaha Kevin Ostdiek Saturday 10/22/2017 #9563 Lincoln DD09 Lincoln Lincoln Mark Dwyer 10/22/2017 #1233 Hartington DD16 Norfolk Elgin Kevin Ostdiek 10/29/2017 #4979 Ogallala DD28 Scottsbluff Scottsbluff Gailen Kotous 11/5/2017 #10923 Kearney DD24 Kearney Kearney Bob Ostdiek 11/5/2017 #10047 Gretna DD04 Fort Calhoun Gretna Rod Hofshulte 11/12/2017 #1966 Plattsmouth DD25 Omaha Omaha 11/16/2017 #11312 Lincoln DD10 Lincoln Mark Dwyer 2nd Degree Only 12/10/2017 #5143 Randolph DD15 Norfolk Elgin Kevin Ostdiek 12/10/2017 #1717 David City DD37 Kearney Kearney Kevin Ostdiek 12/14/17 #13576 Lincoln DD10 Lincoln Mark Dwyer 3rd Degree Only 1/7/2018 #701 O'Neill DD26 Norfolk Elgin
1/7/2018 #1906 Lawrence DD26 Pat Dougherty Canceled
1/21/2018 #11700 Omaha DD03 Fort Calhoun Omaha Mark Dwyer 1/28/2018 #10607 Genoa DD20 Kearney Kearney Mark Dwyer 2/4/2018 #14685 Crofton DD16 Norfolk Elgin Pat Dougherty 02/11/18 #6192 Bellevue DD36 Bellevue Omaha Rod Hofshulte 2/11/2018 #3844 So Sioux City DD15 Omaha Omaha Mark Dwyer 2/11/2018 #2411 Elgin DD18 Norfolk Elgin Kevin Ostdiek Postponed 02/17/18 #8010 Aurora DD11 Lincoln Lincoln 2/25/2018 #1126 McCook DD30 Scottsbluff Scottsbluff Bob Ostdiek 2/25/2018 #2716 Schuyler DD19 Fort Calhoun Gretna Mark Dwyer 02/25/18 #1312 Greeley DD21 Kearney Kearney 2/27/2018 #16878 Lincoln Lincoln Kevin Ostdiek Second Degree 3/4/2018 #1904Hebron DD26 Lincoln Lincoln Pat Dougherty 3/4/2018 #5439 Howells DD14 Fort Calhoun Omaha Mark Dwyer 3/4/2018 #2411 Elgin DD18 Norfolk Elgin Rod Hofshulte 3/11/2018 #8579 Wayne DD15 Bellevue Omaha Kevin Ostdiek 3/11/2018 #9563 Lincoln DD09 Lincoln Lincoln Gailen Kotrous Postponed
74 3/11/2017 #1123 Hastings DD40 Kearney Kearney 3/15/2018 OLOG Seminary DD10 Lincoln Rod Hofshulte 2nd Degree Only 3/17/2018 #7740 Omaha DD04 Omaha Omaha Pat Dougherty Saturday 3/18/2018 #2272 West Point DD42 Fort Calhoun Gretna 3/18/2018 #975 Alliance DD32 Scottsbluff Scottsbluff Mark Dwyer 3/24/2018 #1793 Norfolk DD17 Norfolk Elgin Bob Ostdiek Saturday 3/25/2018 #1833 Wahoo DD38 Omaha Omaha Kevin Ostdiek 4/7/2018 #1723 Beatrice DD08 Lincoln Lincoln Pat Dougherty Postponed 4/15/2018 #7021 Auburn DD07 Bellevue Omaha Kevin Ostdiek 4/19/2018 #15407 Lincoln DD10 Lincoln Rod Hofshulte 3rd Degree Only 4/22/2018 #10795 Omaha DD35 Fort Calhoun Omaha Bob Ostdiek Sunday 6/3/2018 #10894 Springfield DD06 Bellevue Omaha 8/25/2018 #1918 St. Paul DD25 Kearney Kearney Saturday
Respectfully submitted, Larry J. Reed, PSD & David Wiedel
Deputy Gasper called on General Agent Kevin Pfeifer for his annual report. Agent Pfeifer requested that his report and that of fellow General Agents Tony Swanson and Neil Pfeifer be entered into the proceedings without being read. Council 7734 so moved, seconded by Council 12086. Motion passed.
General Agent report from Eastern Nebraska 2018 Worthy Reverend Fathers, State Deputy Louis Gasper, State Officers, District Deputies, Honored Guests, Delegates, all Brother Knights and their wives attending the 2018 Nebraska State Convention in Kearney, Nebraska. I am proud to report that he Kevin Pfeifer Agency for 2017 had a tremendous year and our commitment to our members and their families have never greater. Of course, to accomplish these top rankings you must have a wonderful team and we surly do. I am proud to announce that our Agent of the Year for 2017 is John Stoeckinger who also finished #21 nationally and will also be recognized at our national meeting. We also have 6 other agents who poor their hearts into their career and had wonderful years as well, J Krawczyk, John Soukup, John Costello, Ryan Mascerello, Spencer Ashburn and Stewart Havranek were among our team leaders for 2017. 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.
75 Respectfully and Fraternally, Kevin G Pfeifer, FICF General Agent for South Eastern Nebraska
Central/Western Swanson Agency Worthy Reverend Fathers, State Deputy Lou Gaspar, State Officers, District Deputies, Honored Guests, Delegates, and all Brother Knights and their wives attending the 2018 Nebraska State Convention in Kearney, Nebraska. The Swanson Agency of Central/Western Nebraska had an excellent year in our ninth year of existence. The agency currently has seven agents with plans to add an additional two agents to be 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. Our agency had a great year, finishing #16 in life sales out of approximately 130 agencies in the Order. The Swanson Agency Agent of the Year for 2017 was John Vanderbeek, FICF. John finished #34 in the Order in life sales out of approximately 1,400 agents. John also qualified for MDRT membership (1st time, which represents approximately the top 3% of life insurance agents in the world. This is John’s first time being named the Swanson Agency Agent of the Year. The Knights of Columbus insurance division had another marvelous year with our 17th consecutive year of record sales. The Knights again received a superior rating 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 Northeast Nebraska As the General Agent of Northeast Nebraska, I am happy to submit my report for the Nebraska State Convention. My area covers the majority of Northeast Nebraska including the cites of Omaha, Norfolk, Columbus, Fremont, West Point, Blair and South Sioux City to name a few. My agents include, Mike Kosch, Doug Kelly, Steve Kluthe, Kevin Weber, Craig Pfeifer, Marcus Bell,, Jeremy Borchers, Mark Hoyle, Duane Kosch, Troy Foecking, Roy Metter and Blake Maly. We finished 2017 ranked # 4 in the Order. My team did exceptional well and I am very proud of them. Not only are they great Insurance Agents, they also love the Order and the Great State of Nebraska. Hopefully in June I will bring on another agent to cover the Albion and Lindsay area. Then my final agent will be brought on in the fall. I look forward to being fully staffed, and having every member in my area assigned a professional agent to help them with their financial and Insurance needs.
76 I am looking forward another year serving this great State, its members, and you as the Officers of the Knights of Columbus. If me or my men can help in any way please feel free to contact me.
Vivat Jesus. Neil J. Pfeifer General Agent, North East Nebraska.
Deputy Gasper moved to have the reports of the District Deputies entered into the proceedings without bring read. Council 10108 seconded, motion passed.
District 1 No report received.
Mark Keller District 2 Worthy State Deputy Lou Gasper, State Officers, District Deputies, Grand Knights and delegates to the Nebraska Council State Convention: I respectfully submit my report for the 2017-2018 fraternal year as District Deputy of Nebraska District 2. The Councils in District 2 are: my home parish Council 10108 St. Robert Bellarmine, Council 10965 St. Leo the Great, Council 5045 Christ the King, and 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. The councils added 27 new members with a district quota of 36 and lost 9 due to members not paying their dues. I attended the Grand Knights Seminar in July 2016. There were representatives from each of the councils in District 2. I started District meeting with each grand Knight and their Deputy Grand Knight. We meet every other month and discuss membership, council activities and how we can help each other in our projects. We have had presentation from Mike Leick on Building the Domestic Church, Mike Conrad on rebuilding the cradle of Christianity, and Rod Hofschulte on membership. 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. 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, 10108 and 15101 The most significant events for me in this year were: 1. The opportunity to present awards to the councils. 2. 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
77 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, which was hosted by my home Council 10108. 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 year helped me manage my duties and made the experience more enjoyable. 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. This report would be incomplete without recognizing the efforts of the Grand Knights of each council: John Schnackbach, 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, Dennis Podjenski
District 3 Worthy State Deputy Lou Gaspers, State Officers and fellow District Deputies, Directors, Delegates and bother knights. I respectfully submit my report for district # 3, which consists of the following councils: 9918, 10895, 11600 and 11700 of Omaha. All 4 of my councils have complied with state and Supreme laws and rules of our order. Throughout the year these councils have operated to the best of their ability in helping their parishes and the order. They have conducted several fund raisers, projects and have assisted around their parishes. The past year I attended the majority of their council meetings. I have hosted a major degree and assisted at various 1st degrees. Council # 9918 has 1 new member and is working on adding 3 more. They also ran 5 pancake feeds were the profits went to help the parish, student scholarships, food bank, and seminarians. Council # 10895 has 9 new members as of today. They ran 3 fish fries in which they have helped their parish with various expense, their school, EPS ( Pro life), and other community efforts. Council # 11600 has 1 new member with a possibility of 2 more. They have been helping other church organizations with their fund raising efforts. They also have 5 pancake feeds. They raise money for the St. Vincent Depaul. Council # 11700 has 4 new members. They also have ran 6 fish fries, they use their funds to help the parish and community. Their works are spread all over the board, helping send their assistant priest back to his home in Africa, They also sent funds with him to help have a well built in his home Diocese. For their Christmas party they build 150 bicycles for the poor children in their area. They are involved in many projects. I would like to thank all of my councils for their hard work. I would also like to thank all of my follow District deputies, State Officers and State Program chairs for their help this year.
78 Respectfully Submitted Kevin Illian
District 4 Worthy State Deputy Lou Gaspar, Chaplains, State Officers, fellow District Deputies, Grand Knights and delegates to the 113th 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. 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 and one brand new college council. 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 2 new knights to our order. The major degree had 18 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 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. In 2017 this council held 5 Lenten fish fries that were so successful that the council decided to hold all 6 in 2017. Father was very happy to see the community building brought to St. Pat’s by these successful fish fries. This Lenten activity was marked as a time of great charity. This council also held multiple 1st degrees, attended district meetings, and holds business meetings that are supremely effective. A successful major degree was sponsored by council 10047 in November. Full knighthood in our order was imparted to 15 brother knights. This council has worked harder during the course of the year, on retention. They suspended a few knights yet have almost met their quota as of April of 2018. Council 10160: The Grand knight of this council works diligently to create an atmosphere where hard work can be fun and rewarding. All officers in this council are very
79 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 15 brother knights took their 2nd and 3rd degrees. The brother knights of this council hosted a council free throw competition. The competition was 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 One Rose One Life 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. Dave Dave Belt’s intentions. Council 14470: This council had 4 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 could stand to do a bit more recruiting this fraternal year compared to the past year. 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 roundtable at St. Barnabas church. For the second consecutive year the roundtable Knights of Columbus at St. Barnabas ran an Intellectual Disabilities drive complete with Tootsie Roll’s. 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 recruiting. St. John Paul II -UNO 16680: The UNO council has been holding regular meetings and has held 2 successful pancake breakfasts. The council is still learning the ropes of how the knights do things. How consistently we do audits, pay bills, have meetings etc. In other words, they are getting their proverbial feet wet at this thing we call having a functioning council. The grand knight, Ian Ostdiek has big plans for the council. A few of his members are consistent in helping him make this happen. They could use a Financial Secretary that is a little less involved in other activities. Paperwork has been a little slow. Overall the council is in a good place. More adults, from other councils, being involved would help as well. District 4: I attended less meetings in my District in Fraternal year 2017-18 than in past years. I enjoyed council 10047 as they have improved recently in many areas. I attended one Fish Dinner at council 10047 and five at my council # 10160. District #4 hosted 3 major degrees during the past fraternal year. Council’s 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 Columbus in July 2017, Mid- Winter Meeting in Columbus in December 2017 and now the Convention in April 2017 in Kearney. I served as chairperson for the Free-throw contest in Region 8. I was joined by my fellow District Deputies #5, as well as several dedicated brother knights from the councils that held council challenges. The contest went off without a hitch. The smoothest contest I with which I have ever worked. 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
80 those while staying strong at what they already do well. I feel a little attention is needed for the college council, both from it’s District Deputy and the State. 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 4 established councils this year. In Closing I would like to thank State Deputy Lou Gaspar for entrusting me with this awesome responsibility and honor. My personal life saw some serious upheaval with the loss of my Dad, getting married, and moving. I still greatly enjoyed the job. Being a District Deputy for the Knights of Columbus has overall been a very gratifying experience spiritually and personally. Working with these excellent councils and the members has been a unique privilege.
Respectfully submitted, Stephen Little
81
82 District 6 Worthy State Deputy Lou Gasper, State Officers, District Deputies, Grand Knights and delegates to the State Convention. I respectfully submit my report for the 2017-2018 fraternal year as District Deputy 6. District 6 consists of Councils 7034 Fr. John Brock, Valley, 9518 St. Gerald, Ralston, 10894 St. Joseph, 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 at the Grand Knight’s Seminar along with myself. The Summer District meeting was August 14th 2017. All councils were represented. The State Deputy, State Secretary and General Agent were also in attendance. The Winter District Meeting was December 18th 2017. All councils were represented at that meeting as well. The State Deputy, State Secretary and the Supreme Membership/Program Consultant for Nebraska were also in attendance. Along with myself, Councils have also been represented at Omaha Chapter Meetings. All 4 Councils are in full compliance with State and Supreme laws and rules of our order and have completed all audits and Fraternal Surveys and other required reports on time. Since July 1st, 2017, District 6 Councils have had 15 Admission Degrees accounting for 45 new Knights. At least 4 more Admission Degrees are scheduled in the near future. Two Councils, 14077 and 7034 have achieved Star Council for the year and 9518 and 10894 are well on track to achieve that status before the end of the fraternal year. St. Charles Borromeo hosted a major degree on October 9th 2017 and St. Joseph in Springfield will host a major degree on June 3, 2018. This is a very active District. This fraternal year, all 4 Councils were exemplary in their charitable contributions of time, talent and treasure, sponsoring and running over 20+ projects/fundraisers each, benefitting their Parishes and numerous charitable organizations. These Councils also participated in all categories of Supreme Programs. All 4 Councils received the Columbian Award for their efforts for the previous year. 3 were presented their award at weekend Masses. All should easily qualify to receive the award this next year too, having surpassed last year’s number of projects. This year was also a year of celebration in our district. Council 14077 had a Brother Knight who won the State Knight of The Year award. The State Deputy was at Mass on October 8 to make the presentation. 10894 celebrated their Council’s 25th anniversary with a Mass and Dinner where the State Deputy presented a 25th year certificate from Supreme. 9518 celebrated their Council’s 30th anniversary with a dinner for members that included stories from many of the original charter members. St. John’s Parish in Valley held their 100 year Parish anniversary celebration. The Knights participated in that event with an Honor Guard for the Archbishop at Mass, and support in putting on the event. All 4 Councils donated this year to the Knights of Columbus Flood Relief Programs and all 4 Councils donated together as a District to build a house in Karamles Iraq through the Knights of Columbus rebuilding effort. All 4 councils are participating in setting up a unique new District 6 “Ambassador’s” program. This program consists of 3-5 Knights from each Council who commit to making a conscious, ongoing effort to be a welcoming arm for both the Knights and the Parish. This initial outreach provides an opportunity to get to know that family better and introduce them to the many things the parish and the Knights can provide them. I am proud to say that all 4 Councils either pray the Rosary or have a Mass before each Council meeting. Most have also added a “Faith in Action” talk at the meetings by either the Council
83 Chaplain or the Parish Deacon that educates Brother Knights in attendance each month about different areas of their faith. All 4 Councils have embraced and made “Building The Domestic Church” a major focus both within the Council and in recruiting for the right reasons. It is my honor to have attended most all monthly meetings, first degrees and events but most importantly, serve as District Deputy for these very worthy Councils and their great leadership teams and Brother Knights. Respectfully submitted Craig Vavak District 7 Worthy State Deputy Lou Gasper, State Officers, Fellow District Deputies, State Directors, Delegates and Brother Knights. I respectfully submit my 2017 - 2018 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 Sate 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 with activities but has not recruited any new members this fraternal year but do have a 1st degree scheduled in May/June. The Knights held their annual Toy Show and it was well attended and they hosted the District Hoop Shoot. They were busy with many activities including the Drive for Intellectual Disabilities, One Rose One Life, Monthly Breakfasts, Basketball Free Throw Contest, Fish Fry for Sacred Heart School, Life Chain, Prolife Billboard and other Prolife Activities and hosted the Transfer of the Silver Rose to Kansas Ceremony. They had three kids place 1st or 2nd in the State Hoop Shoot and several in the Substance Abuse Poster Contest. Msgr Thomas Barden Council #6750 of Tecumseh/St Mary’s has been active and recruited 1 new member so far this year. They cancelled their fish fries this year due to renovation of the St Mary’s church. They had a very successful Golf Tournament, One Rose One Life, Scholarships for Seniors, Adopt a Highway, RSVP, and many other activities this year. Father Frank R. Flicek Council #7021 of Auburn has been active and recruited 1 new member this year. They hosted the District Major Exemplification this month which the State Deputy attended. They conducted a very successful Polar Plunge to benefit Special Olympics, had several Lenten Fish Fries, and conducted their annual Sweet Corn Sales. They were very active in Pro-Life activities, conducted a city wide Campaign for Intellectual Disabilities, and have been integral to the remodeling of their church and installed Stations of the Cross on the grounds. Msgr John Flynn Council #11674 of Dawson/Shubert was active and hosted the district meeting. They conducted a very successful Fair Stand and a Pork BBQ for support of the church. They mowed the church cemetery and the church grounds all summer. They participated in One Rose One Life, Intellectual Disabilities campaign, Breakfasts, and many other activities. So far they have not recruited any new members this year. 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 Lou Gasper 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,
84 Stephen J. Severin DVM
District 8 Worthy State Deputy, Lou Gasper; 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 email. Councils 1723 had a very active year. They conducted many excellent programs including a fireworks stand, replaced the parish center carpet, one rose one life program, many pancake breakfast, vocations program for seminarians, fish fry’s, and many other activities. The council was very active and held the district free throw contest. I want to thank the council for the support they gave me this year and look forward to watching this council grow under the leadership of Grand Knight Joseph Brewer. 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 this year and I 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 this year and look forward to watching this council grow. Council 15869 is in its Fourth year and was very active throughout the year. The council will achieve star council second year in a row. The council did several pancake breakfast, cemetery cleanup, gun raffle, tootsie roll drive at both the Odell and Wymore parishes, 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 this year and look forward to watching this council grow. Council 2967 of Wymore remains inactive. Respectfully submitted Matthew Schroeder
District 9 Directors, Delegates, & Brother Knights. I respectfully submit my report for district Number 9, which consist of Councils 9563, 9704, 11001, 13015, & 16878 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.
85 The past year I have attended the majority of the council meetings along with 2 joint all- city meeting with districts 10 & 34. The councils of district 9 have hosted several 1st degrees, 9563 hosted a major degree. This was an especially exciting year as we created a new council at the St. Francis of Assisi parish in Lincoln with 34 charter members. The charter date for this new council was December 12, 2017, the feast day of Our Lady of Guadalupe, and took the council name of Father Kenneth Walker Council. The charter date is significant as this is a Latin rite parish and several members have ties to the Our Lady of Guadalupe Seminary, the latin seminary in Denton Nebraska. The council name is also significant as Fr. Walker attended the seminary. I would like to note a special thanks to Manny Gallardo & charter GK Michael Bruns for all of their work in making this new council a reality. Once again the city of Lincoln hosted their second annual coats for kids drive in partnership with Catholic Social Services. I have attached my report on this very successful event. I would also like to note that Blessed Sacrament, 11001, celebrated their 25th anniversary as a council. This is a strong active council that has contributed much to their parish, city, & state. I would like to thank all of my councils and fellow District Deputies for their assistance, support, and hospitality throughout the year. I would also like to thank the priests for their continued support of the Knights of Columbus along with our Field Agents - John Soukup, Spencer Ashburn, & John Costello and Kevin Pfeifer, General Agent for Eastern Nebraska for their help and support. I would also like to offer thanks to Lou Gasper and all of his State Officers and Directors throughout this past fraternal year for the mentorship and patience.
Respectfully submitted, Mark Kistler
District 10 My first year was a new experience for me. I am excited or the position as District Deputy. All my councils 13576, 11280, 11312, and 15407 have complied with State and Supreme laws and rules of our order. Thru out the year these councils have operated to the best of their ability. This past year I have attended the Majority of the council meetings and 2 joint all city meetings with Districts 9 & 34. Would like to thank the priest of each council for their support and their comments to help me do a better job & strengthen my faith. Would like to thank the insurance agents; John Soukup; Spencer Ashburn; John Costello & John Stoeckinger for their help and support in Recruiting. The Councils have hosted Admission 1st; Formation 2nd; and Knighthood 3rd Exemplifications thru out the year. Would like to thank our State Deputy Lou Gasper and all State Officers and Directors.
Respectfully Submitted, Gary Taylor
86
District 11 No report received. Leland Buscher
District 12 Vacant
District 13 Worthy State Deputy Louis Gasper, State Officers, Fellow District Deputies, State Directors, Delegates and Brother Knights. I respectfully submit my 2017 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 are also sponsoring the Cradle of Christianity event to support persecuted Christians as well as many other charitable projects. They also hosted the District 13 Free Throw Contest. St. Francis Borgia Council #10412 of Blair is an active and 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 fund raiser. 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 and the One Rose One Life Campaign, 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 Gasper 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 Dvorak
87 District 14 Worthy State Deputy Lou Gasper, State Officers, Fellow District Deputies, State Directors, Delegates and Brother Knights. I respectfully submit my 2017-2018 report for District #14, which consists of Councils #5439 Howells, 7879 Wisner, 7887 Clarkson, 9898 Leigh, and #12132 Stanton. 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 have conducted many activities in the area of Church, Community, Council, Family, and Youth activities. Pope John XX111 #5439 Howells has been extremely active, still working on recruiting new members to achieve Star Council, also they had their annual tractor pull in July along with barbecue dinner. Also they had a family fun night and steak fry, with games and fun games for the children and program for the knight's and wives. The council also participated in the tootsie roll drive, One-rose One-life, free-throw contest, Keep Christ in Christmas poster contest, leading the rosary before mass, memorial mass for deceased members, and also led the rosary for three members that had passed away this past year. The council had an award knight honoring Family of the year, Knight of the year and Family of the month winners. The council also hosted a major degree exemplification, also had fish fries during lent and also delivered meals to the homebound in the community and surrounding areas. The council also made donations to the Catholic School, community projects, and benefits The council replaced the old pro-life sign with a new one located on the highway coming into town. A new Financial Secretary was appointed. St. John Neumann Council #7887 is a small council which is active and participates with the tootsie roll drive, One-Rose One-life, free-throw contest, along with youth, church, family and council activities. The council will have a soup and pie dinner, pancake breakfast, they also lead the rosary before mass, memorial mass for deceased members. The council helps coordinate their Fall Fun Fest which is a fundraiser for the Catholic school. Fr. Joseph Rose #7779 Wisner, is a small council in a community dominated by Lutheran's. The council has a new Financial Secretary appointed and is working very hard trying to get their finances in order. The council participates in Church, Family Council, Community, and youth activities. They will have hamburger, feeds and pancake breakfast's for fundraisers. The Grand Knight needs help with the assistance of the State Officers, as I have tried to get a meeting with the council and State assistance and I get no response. Hopefully with a lot of prayer we can get this council to grow. St. Mary's Council #9898 is another council that is small, but active and is led by young and energetic officers. They once again hosted the District Free-throw and participate in the tootsie roll drive, one-rose one-life, along with Council, Church, Family, Community, and Youth activities. The council have lunch stand at the county fair and will have a pancake breakfast for fundraisers. They donate money for semminarins, spirit radio, and community activities. They are working on recruiting two more new members to be able to qualify for Star Council. St. Peter's Council #12132 is a very active council, they participate in One-Rose One-life, Tootsie Roll drive, Church, Community, Family, Council, and Youth activities. For fund raisers they will do controlled burns on crop acres and hamburger feeds. They will host a lunch for C.C.D. Teachers, and student's and also award a scholarship to a graduating senior. They lead a rosary before all masses and will also have a meeting at Senior Citizen Center so member's that reside there can participate.
88 This year I have attended most of all the council meetings and several activities, I also hosted a Financial Secretaries workshop in Howell's. I wish to express my gratitude to State Deputy Lou Gasper and all of the State Officer's, my fellow District Deputies, State Directors, and all of my Council's in District # 14 for all of their help and support throughout this past year. God Bless Respectfully Submitted Donald F Cech
District 15 Worthy State Deputy, Lou Gasper, State Officers, Fellow District Deputies, State Directors, Delegates and Brother Knights, I respectfully submit my 2017- 2018 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 fund raising 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 on March 4, 2018 and Crofton, February 4, 2018 to hold an admissions degree. Council 9939 Ponca held an admissions degree on April 18, 2018. A major Degree was held at Council 5143 Randolph on December 10, 2017. Council 3844 South Sioux City, held a major degree on February 11, 2018. Then Council 8579 Wayne held their major degree on March 11, 2018. 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 attended the Grand Knights Seminar, in Grand Island, July 14-16, 2017, the mid-winter meeting in Columbus, December 1-3, 2017. I also attended the town hall meeting held in Norfolk, January 13, 2018. I was able to attend the Nebraska State Convention in Kearney on April 27-29, 2018. I value the information that is available at these meetings, along with the priceless networking with other Brother Knights. I want to take this opportunity to thank Field Agents, Craig Pfeifer and Jeremy Borchers for all their support and help with all the Councils. Thank you State Deputy, Lou Gasper 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
89 District 16 Worthy State Deputy Louis Gasper, State Officers, Worthy District Deputies and Brother Knights, Council #14685 St. Rose Crofton, Council #1233 MSGR Werner Hartington, Council #5218 St. Francis of Assisi Verdigre, Council #10592 Fr. Auer Bloomfield. These Councils have completed State and Supreme laws and Rules of our Order. Throughout this year, all Councils have had many activities for church, community, family and youth. St. Rose of Lima #14685 of Crofton is a very active and growing young Council. They have had 3 parish breakfasts, a successful Grillfest, Ladies Steak Night, Tootsie Roll Drive, Free Throw Contest, 2 Fundraisers for families in need and given the First Rose for baptisms. They also do “This Man is You”. St. Rose had one Major Exemplification and First Degree. Msgr Werner #1233 of Hartington is a very stable older Council with a 4th Degree Chapter. They are active with Lenten Fish Fry, Basketball Playoff Brackets, One Rose One Life, Stations of the Cross, March Right to Life, monthly Rosaries, Free Throw Contest and Tootsie Roll Drive. They also support a Seminarian. Fr. Auer Bloomfield Council #10592 is a very active council. They had a Lenten Fish Fry, Free Throw contest, Tootsie Roll Drive, and One Rose One Life. St. Francis of Assisi Verdigre Council #5218 is a very old Council with a 4th Degree Chapter. It is a small parish and has had a hard time with recruiting new members. This Council had a FS with health problems and did not keep current. We have just appointed a new FS and with our prayers and help, will get back on track. They take part in One Rose One Life, Free Throw Contest, Prime Rib Night, Monthly Rosaries, and Kolache Days Parade with a KOC float, and every 4th Sunday Rosary. I attend every monthly meeting that I can and every fundraiser possible. Bloomfield and Hartington have monthly meetings on the same night every month therefore I take turns from month to month. I am very proud of these four Councils and they have accepted me into their meetings with open arms. I want to thank State Deputy Gasper, State Officers, fellow District Deputies, Chaplains, State Directors, but most of all to the four councils of District 16.
Respectfully submitted, Doyle Stevens
District 17 Worthy State Deputy Lou Gasper, 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 as I am nearing the end of my 3rd term. 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. This past year, I have attended 90% - 95% of my councils meetings. I have been suggesting hard for the councils to attend the live Webinars and if all else fails, to review them
90 on the web site after the fact. I have been also putting out there (almost preaching) promoting “Building the Domestic Church” program. I feel I am getting there with the message (I think), for their involvement in the Spirituality of their Church. But to get their Priest (Chaplin) involved from the start – get them involved. Council 1238 Creighton participated again this year in the Intellectual Disabilities Program, One Rose One Life Campaign, and the Youth Free Throw Contest. They raise money each year with their Steak & Potato Feed, a Super Bowl Breakfast, sells Christmas Cards, and helps the Parish Community with the Lenten Fish Fries. The monies raised go to support their young people in the Church, the Parish’s “Y” Disciples program, and their Parish projects. The Council sponsors their local Radio Station 95.9 KLIL, sponsored a Relay For Life Campaign, provides goodies at Christmas for the Parish Youth Religious Program (literally is Santa Claus), and do a Bingo Night once a month at the local Care Center. This Council is very active and supportive in their Parish Family. This Council is having a hard time recruiting new members but have not given up. However, I believe they have 2 to 3 good candidates that are on the verge of saying yes. Council 1793 Norfolk always does an excellent job throughout the year with many projects that benefit the council and their church’s parish, with Lenten Fish Fries, 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 organizes teams to be greeters and directors (attendants) of their church’s parking lot before Mass times. The Council also has a certified Admission (1st) Degree and Formation (2nd) Degree team. The council supports new membership by assisting other councils with exemplifications. Council 1793 hosted a major degree on March 24th of this year and a 4th degree at their hall on March 25th, 2018. 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 again this year. They participate in their City of Norfolk annual LA Vista Day Parade, had a Seminarian Breakfast and a Pro-Life Breakfast. They support the Bethlehem House, the Norfolk Orphan Grain Train and support several Focus Group Missionaries. Note: Brian and Mary Jo Hamik of this council are our State Council’s Culture of Life Directors and Neil Pfeifer of this council is Nebraska’s North East General Agent. This is a very active council of whom our District can be proud of. Their council has a hard time meeting their membership quota (35) but will receive the bronze ICC award and the Columbian Award. 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 d0 not participate in the Youth Free Throw Contest as their youth participate at the Elgin’s Council contest. This council does have a young member of the council that is in the seminarian program studying for the priesthood. The council does award a senior each year through their Scholarship Program that will be furthering their education. For each new born child at Baptism, they present a rose to the mother. They sponsor the local radio station in O’Neil as well as Spirit Radio. This Council is very active in their Parish and Community. Yea – the council did meet their quota of five New Brother Knights hoping they can meet their insurance quota. They are their way to receive the Columbian Award and hopefully the Star Council Award.
91 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 give out a gift each year to each graduating senior and one scholarship to a winning senior. 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. The council did not make the ICC award as last year because of only 1 new member so far, but should receive the Columbian Award and hopefully – perhaps Star Council Award yet. Council 12517 Battle Creek is mostly very 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. At the Parish Bazar, they successfully hold a raffle as a fund raiser. They do hold and sponsor benefits not only for the members of their parish family but those of the community. This council is trying to grow in numbers but is having a hard time recruiting = but this year so far they have 3 new Brother Knights they have recruited. The Deputy Grand Knight is very enthusiastic about the membership growing. I would like to thank State Deputy Lou Gasper 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 No report received. Gary Hoefer
District 19 Worthy State Deputy Louis Gasper, 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 4 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 teams. 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 (4) Councils have submitted their councils reports. We have held 7 First Degrees in the District. All four councils have participated in the Tootsie Roll, 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
92 Knights, and I attended the Grand Knights seminar in July. I attended the state Mid-Year meeting in Columbus in December, and Council # 2716 Schuyler, hosted a Major Degree on February 25 2018, in Schuyler. I held a District meeting in Columbus and it was well attended. I went to the Norfolk Huddle Meeting along with 2 Grand Knights and 1FS. Not well attended but received good information. This replaced the 2nd District Meeting. I enjoyed attending banquets, fundraisers, and other activities that the Councils held throughout the year. The district Free Throw was held in Columbus and the Regional was held in Central City. The District Soccer & Regional Soccer were both held in Columbus. The District Councils worked together to support the Silver Rose, our District was privileged to have (2) services (1) held by Council # 2716 in Schuyler and (1) service held by Council # 9264 in Columbus. This served all (3) Councils. 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 Worthy State Deputy Lou Gasper, State Officers, Fellow District Deputies, State Directors, Delegates, and Brother Knights: I respectfully submit my report for District Number 20, which consists of the following Councils: 7699 (Holy Family of Lindsay), 7825 (St. Edward of St. Edward), 7954 (St. Peter’s of Fullerton), and 10607 (St. Rose of Lima of Genoa). These four Councils have regular business meetings eight to ten times per year. These Councils seek to maintain and stabilize their Council Membership – despite the current trend of depopulation found in most areas of rural Nebraska. Councils 7699 and 7825 are currently awaiting the hiring of a new KC Insurance Field Agent to service their needs. All Councils have done well in their charitable efforts this year. All four of these Councils participate in the Campaign for People with Intellectual Disabilities (Tootsie Roll) fundraising drive. All four Councils participate well in handing out One-Rose-One-Life prayer cards in the parishes they serve, and they have done well in raising funds to support Pro-Life activities. All four Councils participate in the KC Free-Throw Contest; this year, District 20 had three local participants advance to the State Finals: Paige Horn (Fullerton), Natalie Reeg (Genoa), and Alyssa Reardon (St. Edward). Congratulations to these! St. Edward, Fullerton, and Genoa Councils have recently been busy awarding helpful scholarships to students who meet their criteria; while Lindsay Council supports students in their activities at Holy Family Catholic School. These Councils help contribute to the Catholic TV Mass program out of Hastings. Each Council has one or more programs unique to itself, but all of the Councils certainly serve their local Churches and communities in a very positive manner. Sunday, January 28th, 2018, a Major Degree for District 20 was hosted by St. Rose of Lima Council 10607 at the Parish Community Building in Genoa. Ave Maria Council 1794 of Humphrey provided the First Degree Team; the Second Degree Team of Kearney with Mitch O’Neill as Captain provided the Second Degree; and the Third Degree Team of Kearney with Mark Dwyer filling in as Conferring Officer provided the Third Degree. Council 10607 gained five new 3rd Degree Members, while Council 7699 gained four new 3rd Degree Members and one
93 new 1st Degree Member. (Council 7699 gained one new 3rd Degree Member at the Norfolk Major Degree held in March; and one Knight upgraded to becoming a 4th Degree Member at the Exemplification held at David City in February.) We appreciate all Degree Team Members for their exemplary work, and for the time and effort they put forth on behalf of our noble Order!
Respectfully submitted, Roy M. Zach
District 21 No report received Gerald Smith
District 22 No report received. Charles 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 4th of July celebration promoting their council. Also they participated at the local County Fair, having a Pork Chop feed and having 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 gave Roses to all the mothers in Church on One Rose One Life weekend . 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, Alter Boy 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 participate in the Campaign for People with Intellectual Disabilities, support of a Seminarian, TV Mass and One Rose Life. The also 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 $59000.00 for this worthwhile project. Respectively Submitted David Wiedel District 24 Worthy State Deputy Lou Gasper, 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, 2351 Wood River/Shelton, 10923
94 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. Wood River/Shelton Council 2351 participates in many activities which include: One Rose One Life campaign, Tootsie Roll® Drive, Community Christmas Dinner, Local Church Fish Fries, and other events. Prince of Peace Council 10923 of Kearney participates in many activities which include: One Rose One Life Campaign, Tootsie Roll® Drive, fifth 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. They were awarded Star Council in 2017. This year I have attended most council meetings and several activities. I wish to express my thanks and gratitude to State Lou Gasper 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 No report received Marshall Paczosa District 26 Worthy State Deputy, State Officers, fellow District Deputies, Directors, delegates and brother Knights. I respectfully submit my report for District 26, which consists of Councils 701 O’Neill, 3720 Boyd County, 4707 St. Joseph Atkinson and 5881 St. Boniface Council Stuart. All councils have completed all audits and fraternal survey reports. This past year I have attended most of my councils meetings and district meetings in Norfolk and a major degree at Council 701, O’Neill.
95 I wish to inform you worthy State Deputy Lou Gasper that in November of this year Council 4707 in Atkinson will be celebrating 60 years of charity, unity, fraternity and patriotism. Council 4707 chartered in November 1958.
Respectfully submitted, John Mathis
District 27 No report received Kelly Russell
District 28 Worthy State Deputy Lou Gasper, State Officers, Fellow District Deputies, State Directors, Delegates, & Brother Knights. I respectfully submit my report for District Number 28, which consist of Councils 1211 in North Platte, Ogallala Council 4979, Cozad Council 5315, and Councils 10506 & 12530 also of North Platte. I believe all 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 if not all of District 28 Councils meetings. Several Councils of District 28 have hosted 1st degrees and Council 4979 hosted a Major Degree. Very sad news, as I write this report I have just received notice of Council 10506 Chaplain and Pastor of Holy Spirit Church in North Platte, Father James Novakowski, has passed into our Saviors arms. I would like to thank all of my councils and fellow District Deputies for their assistance, support, and hospitality throughout the year. I would also like to thank the priests for their continued support of the Knights of Columbus along with our Field Agent and Brother Tim Nowak, for his help and his tremendous support for our Councils. I would also like to offer thanks to Lou Gasper and all of our State Officers and Directors throughout this past fraternal year for the mentorship and patience.
Respectfully submitted, Wm Mike Stromitis
District 29 Worthy State Deputy Louis Gasper, State Officers, Fellow District Deputies, State Directors, Delegates and Brother Knights. I respectfully submit my 2017 report for District # 29 which consists of Councils, 2373 Orleans, 2693 Indianola, 7734 Arapahoe/Cambridge, and 8590 Holdredge. 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.
96 Council #2373, of Orleans has been activeThe Knights held their annual membership drive steak dinner, also fundraiser for the scholarship program, which was very well attended. Also the council participated in the yearly Tootsie Roll Drive for the Intellectually Disabled, as well as the One Rose One Life. Council #2693 of Indianola has 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. They sponsor very successful Lenten Fish Fries and bull fry nights for the parish. They also have an annual food booth for the Indianola city celebration as a major fund raiser. Bishop John Neuman Council #7734 of Arapahoe/Cambridge participates in the annual One Rose One Life campaign, hunters’ breakfast, Tootsie Roll Campaign, Free throw competition, annual BBQ for the combined parishes, Valentines party, and annual gun raffle as a major fund raiser for the council. This year they have started several new projects which include: Seminary support, a Scholarship program, and hopefully an annual baked potato bar to help fund both of these projects. Also they make annual donations to Hastings TV mass, their Parish, and community from their fundraisers. All Saints Council #8590 Holdrege, is involved in many activities which include the following: pancake breakfasts, Lenten Fish Fries, Free throw contest. Council members participate in the annual Tootsie Roll Drive and the One Rose One Life Campaign, and the Right to Life Prayer Chain. This year I have attended most council meetings and several activities. I wish to express my thanks and gratitude to State Deputy Gasper and all the State Officers, my fellow District Deputies, State Directors, and all of my Councils in District 29 for their help and support throughout this year. Respectfully submitted, Gerald Colson
District 30 Worthy State Deputy Lou Gasper, Worthy State Officers, Worthy Bishops George Lucas, James Conley, and Joseph Hanefeldt, and Delegates to the 113th 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 Knight Seminar in July at Grand Island, The Mid-Winter meeting in Columbus as well as the State Convention. I held the District Free throw contest in Wauneta February 12th as well as the region 5 free throw contest in McCook on March 8th. Held a major exemplification In McCook on February 26th, and hosted a regional DD huddle meeting in McCook in March. I attended as many Monthly council meeting as possible through the year. All the council participated in many activities throughout the year. All the councils participated in One Rose One Life, Tootsie Roll Drive, Life Chain, free throw contest, and other supreme activities. Some individual activities: 1126 McCook hold fish fries on Friday during Lent; 7081
97 Imperial serve pie and ice cream at the fair; 7778 Grant sell 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 payed, and keeping the councils active. Lastly 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 an honor to serve the Supreme and Nebraska State councils of the Knights of Columbus.
Respectfully submitted Kent Lorens
District 31 On the occasion of the 2018 Nebraska State Knights of Columbus Convention, it is my pleasure to present to our Worthy State Deputy Louis Gasper, State Officers, Fellow District Deputies, State Directors, Delegates, and Brother Knights, my report for the year 2017 for Nebraska K of C District 31. District 31 is comprised of the following Councils in western Nebraska: Council 2681- Scottsbluff, Council 10285 Gering, Council 4867- Kimball, and Council 1861- Sidney. Over the past fraternal year, it has been my duty to insure that each council is up to date in their reports and current with their payments and assessments. This journey began, for me, as a new District Deputy, when I was installed by State Deputy Louis Gasper at the Grand Knights Seminar in Grand Island in July 2017. Armed with skills outlined by our outstanding State Program Directors two District “Huddle” meetings were held to provide council officers with the tools to move forward in the areas of charity, unity, fraternity, and patriotism. The first “huddle” meeting was held in Scottsbluff on August 12, 2017 with Worthy State Deputy Louis Gasper in attendance. Officers from Districts 31 and 32 spent the morning reviewing Supreme and State Council programs. “Huddle” meeting number two was held on January 20, 2018 in Scottsbluff with Worthy State Program Director Mike Schaeffer assisting the officers from Districts 31 and 32 in moving their charitable programs forward. Both meetings have helped the councils in District 31 to achieve the following: Council 2681- Scottsbluff- Dave Wolf, Grand Knight Council 2681 has a very active program schedule. Monthly breakfasts provide money for charitable programs and the Lenten Fish Fries provide money for St. Agnes School. The council also participates in the yearly Tootsie Roll Drive, the K of C Free Throw Contest, Festival of Hope, and official sponsorship of the Fortis Boys Choir. Council 10285- Gering- Ed Connelly- Grand Knight The Gering council was the host for our district Free Throw Contest. A jail rosary ministry, an annual garage sale, participation in the Tootsie Roll Drive, a Fall Dinner, and Lenten Fish Fries also keep the council busy. Council 4867- Kimball- Floyd Long – Grand Knight The Kimball council will be sending a district Free Throw winner to state. A spaghetti dinner for charitable causes, Tootsie Roll Drive participation, and Lenten Fish Fries are just a few of this council’s many activities. Council 1861- Sidney- Jason Noel - Grand Knight
98 The Sidney Council is very community minded. This council will also be sending a district Free Throw winner to state. Holiday dinners, Lenten Fish Fries, Tootsie Roll Drive participation, and a very robust 40 Cans for Lent program make this council one to take pride in! I once received a coin from the Supreme Council, which stated that district deputies engage fraternal leaders. To elaborate it is my feeling district deputies also empower fraternal leaders. Through continued visits and phone calls to District 31 council leaders it is my goal to continue to empower my district’s leaders as I grow in my role as a district deputy.
Respectfully Submitted, Stephen F. Viessman
District 32 No report received. Jerome J. Smith
District 33 Worthy State Deputy Louis (Lou) Gasper, State Officers, Fellow District Deputies, State Directors, Delegates and Brother Knights, It is with respect that I submit the Spring 2018 report for District #33. It is of note that District 33 consists of Councils 652, 10184, 11364, and 11800, all of which are located within Omaha Nebraska area. All four Councils have complied with the State and Supreme Laws and Rules of our Order. Most have completed their State Reports. Since my tenure as District Deputy for District 33, these Councils have participated in a variety of Church, Community, Family and Youth activities, representing the Knights of Columbus Organization with dignity and honor. All of the Councils have organized fund raising activities, and provided fraternity and good works that have benefited their respective Parishes. As examples of such good works performed within District 33: Council 652 has promoted a number of activities like 'The Ring Toss' at Mount Michael's Annual Festival. This year Council 652 gave a large donation to St. Cecilia's Cathedral to be applied to their boiler replacement fund for the campus. Designed to honor all of the nuns within the Archdiocese and to show the Knights of Columbus' gratitude for the Sisters' support of the Catholic Church and the education that they provide in its Schools, "The Sister Appreciation Luncheon" is yet another function that Council 652 does annually (in its 17th year now). Following Mass at the St. Cecilia Cathedral, the nuns are all invited to partake in a catered luncheon at the Cathedral's Parish Center. While there, all are given roses, and are gifted with a Novena of daily Masses offered on their behalf for one full year. Council 10184, at the Saint Thomas More Catholic Church, received the (2016 - 2017) Council's Columbian Award! Council 11364, at The Holy Cross Catholic Church, hosted 2017's District Freethrow Tournament! Council 11800, at the Saint Margaret Mary Catholic Church, hosted District 33's second semiannual "Motivational Seminar" on August 16th, 2017. Mass preceeded this spirited discourse, which included talks given by our esteemed guests Worthy State Deputy Lou Gasper, Supreme Director Michael Conrad and Worthy State Secretary Mark Borytsky. All four
99 Councils were duly represented by their respective elected Officers and members at that Seminar. Additionally, Council 11800 hosted the 2018 "District 33 Basketball Free Throw Tournament". I am edified and humbled by all of the cooperation and support that I have received from all four of these Great Councils within this State's District 33. Respectfully Yours in Christ, Therial L. Bynum, M.D.
District 34 Worthy State Deputy Lou Gasper, State Officers, District Deputies, Grand Knights and delegates to the Nebraska Council State Convention: I respectfully submit my report for the 2017-2018 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, 10913 St. Michael’s. All are in Lincoln, NE. All are in good standing. At this writing there are 992 members in these councils. I attended the Grand Knight Seminar in July 2017 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 2 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 4923. 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 arre 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 Jim Stell (GK) and Tony Shafer (FS), 4923 Micheal Sibbel (GK) and Don Kneifl (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.
100 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 Nebraska Knights of Columbus State Convention: 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). Councils #09771, #10795 and #10909 each have certified First Degree member admission teams. The St. Elizabeth Ann, St. Vincent de Paul, and St. Wenceslaus councils each achieved Star Council recognition in 2016/2017. All four councils are in good standing as of this date. During the past year as 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). In April 2017, I attended the State Convention as District Deputy and also served as one of my council’s Convention Delegates. In July 2017, I attended the Grand Knight Seminar in Grand Island. In December 2017, I attended the District Deputy Meeting in Columbus. District 35 increased its participation during 2017/2018 in the Soccer Shootout, adding St. Vincent de Paul to the soccer competition, and the Free Throw Contest, adding St. Patrick’s to the free throw competition. We awarded medals to district winners, with contestants from my district moving on to compete at the state level for both youth activities. In April 2018, Council #10795 hosted a First, Second and Third Degree Exemplification, the first time that this council has hosted a Major Degree Exemplification. The councils in my district have been working diligently to increase their visibility within their parishes and the community. As I think of particular accomplishments this past year for each of my councils, I highlight the following: Council #09771, which once again organized and hosted the regional district soccer shootout competition, hosted several parish Lenten dinners and also established its first “food for families” donation; Council #10795 (my home council), which hosts an annual pig roast family picnic for Knights and prospective members at an acreage near Omaha, won the 2017 Inter-Council Competition (ICC) belt, recognizing it for its numerous achievements in service to the Order, Church, Communities, Families, Youth and Prolife organizations; Council #10909, my largest council which added the largest number of new members in the state in 2016/2017 (tied with another council), started a calendar club in 2017 and did it again in 2018, raising over $60,000 each year, with over $30,000 of these funds annually being designated for various charitable causes/organizations, with the most notable that of leading the purchase of a 3D/4D ultrasound machine purchase in 2017, allowing 3D imaging with live video streaming, providing the ability to see the motion of the fetal heart wall or valves, or even blood flow in various vessels; and Council #14914, which has greatly improved its monthly business meetings so that they are now orderly, respectful, and efficiently conducted, including monthly spiritual film sessions, and looks to move into the Star Council rank this year, once again hosted a very successful rib feed for their parish. 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.
101 This report would not be complete without recognizing the efforts of the current Grand Knight of each council: Jeremy List (#09771), Ron Frisse (#10795), Bob Cronin (#10909), and Eddie Biwer (#14914), each of whom has exemplified the role to which they were elected. The efforts (numerous hours and timely reporting) of the Financial Secretaries of each council are also deserving of recognition. My sincere thanks to State Deputy Lou Gasper for entrusting me with this service opportunity. It is an honor to serve my Brother Knights in District 35.
Respectfully submitted, Glen R. Kampschneider
District 36 No report received. David Wagner
District 37 It has been a pleasure and honor to serve as District Deputy 37 this past year and for several years prior. District 37 consists of 6 councils, 1717 David City, 5383 Osceola, 10386 Central City, 11652 Bruno/Abie, 14423 Shelby, 15944 Bellwood. All councils are active in church, community and charitable activities. 14423 received star council last year and 15944 received membership and activities awards. I have recruited and started to train Galen Pokorny as my replacement as I have served for a total of 7 years. 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 4434 following their council shoot, while 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 11737 participated in a Habitat for Humanity work project. Council 4434 and 7704 hosted Lenten fish dinners and pancake feeds. Councils 4434 and 11737 participated in Keep
102 Christ in Christmas (card sales). Four of the four councils had their Grand Knights present for the district workshop. Councils receiving Star Council awards were 4434, 7704, and 11737. District 39 was awarded the Star District Award. District Meetings were held with good attendance and participation. I look forward to working with my successor as we transition to a new DD in District 39.
Respectfully submitted, Joseph W. Keaschall
District 40 Worthy State Deputy Lou Gasper, State Officers, District Deputies, Grand Knights and Delegates to the 113th 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 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; 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 encouraged to submit their council activities on the Columbian Award Application Form SP-7 for the Supremes’ annual Columbian Award. As of April 1, 2018, the district membership quota stands at 34% and the insurance quota stands at 7%. Both quota percentages are in the process of being worked on by the councils and field agents this Fraternal Year. It is a true blessing, and distinct honor to serve as District Deputy for all four of the councils in District #40 of the Nebraska Jurisdiction. Respectfully submitted, Scott Bonham District 41 Worthy state deputy and officers, fellow district deputies, state directors and delegates, grand knights and brother knights 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 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, and 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, mother’s day breakfast provided homemade cinnamon
103 rolls and roses for mothers, scholarships for students continuing catholic education. Also continuing all fund raising and community events. Helped Fr. David with loading shipping container to go to his parish in Ghana, also submitted funds to help dig wells in his parish. Installed a new metal roof on storage building. 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, sold fresh sweet corn at St. Mary’s and St. Benedict’s churches in the fall, operated five fish fry's during lent, operated a food pantry every Saturday, hosted the Knights free throw contest and 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. Also mows the lawns for the Franciscan sisters of the sorrowful mother in Nebraska City as an ongoing service project. A brother knight went to Ghana to help Fr. David repair a church and clinic. Council 7614 held a monthly third Sunday breakfast for parishioners after mass, they hosted fish fry's 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 hunter’s breakfast on the opening day of pheasant hunting season, in November they put up the Keep Christ in Christmas signs on parish grounds, 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 have even when deemed necessary spent their operating expenses as well. Successfully started a roundtable in Palmyra. Looking to make star council again this year. Council 12557 has been very active in the past year they have held various fundraisers such as breakfasts, and making homemade sausage links, they operated a food stand at the community’s annual Stir-Up parade. 12557 has added three new members to the council. Also holds Texas hold'm tournaments throughout the year for different men's groups. All councils are trying to increase membership and visibility within the parish and community. Respectfully submitted, Patrick J O’Shea
District 42 Worthy State Deputy, District Deputies, Grand Knights, to the 2017 State Convention. Councils of 2272 West Point, 15068 Tekamah, 11810 Pender, and 13496 Lyons are all Active. All four councils understand the importance of membership growth and how it will keep their council going. Council #2272 St. Joseph’s West Point is currently at 28 new members as of Today. West Point is very active in various fundraisers for GACC Schools, Catechism, Special Olympics of West Pont Beemer HS, St Mary’s, St Boniface, St. Aloysius, & St. Anthony’s Parishes in Cuming County. They continue with their Lenten fish fry’s, One Rose/One Life and Intellectual Disabilities Drive. They host 2 summer events one a barbecue on July 4th and also a “Religious Vocations Picnic” in August with mass in the Grandstand on the Baseball Field. They also held the Local, and District KC basketball free throw contest in 2018. They also administered $2,000 in scholarships for high school graduates who are either knights or sons of knights. They also support their very own Taylor Leffler, in the seminary, who will be ordained a Priest in June, and
104 funded a trip for 4 young women to visit the Sister House in Manitowoc WI with 2 sponsors. They just recently ordered 2 more signs to be placed to the West and East of West Point. March of 2018 the council footed the $3,500 bill for the development dinner so %100 of profits went towards the Catholic school. Building a Domestic Church Campaign, and are now active in the State ICC Awards. They also continue with the KC Living rosaries at Brother Knight Funerals. The council also a Past Star Council in 2016-17, and won an award for most members recruited in 2016-17 year. This will be West Point’s second year for giving out Honor Chords to the Graduating seniors at Honors Night. Council #15068 St. Patrick’s Tekamah is currently has not recruited any members but have a couple on the list. They are very active in fundraisers for their community with breakfasts and fish fry’s. Their 2017 One Rose One Life and Tootsie roll drive were the largest they have in a long time. Council #11810 St. John the Baptist Pender is currently at 2 new members and are working hard in their parish to make an impact in the community and church. They are a small council but are trying hard to promote the Knight of Columbus through One Rose One Life and the Tootsie Roll Drives. They exceeded their goal for their annual Steak and Wine Night in March and it is their main fundraiser. They hold many fundraisers and have scholarships for graduating seniors, and also support families in their community with a disaster fund which they used in the past for tornado relief. Council #13496 Fr. Leo Wolpert Lyons has not recruited any new members this year yet. We have been seeing some new members at our monthly meetings which is a step in the right direction. They continue their fundraising efforts with breakfasts and other activities. Husker Football ticket Raffle and Turkey Bingo are their specialties. They also hold The One Rose One Life Campaign along with the Tootsie Roll Drive. They are also a small council in a small community and trying to find some more leadership in the community. I am very excited to be a DD for all of these councils, but due to a disconnect of knowing the parishes and their members, we have been slacking on membership for the smaller councils. Some of the smaller councils have issues with making “the ask”, but I have done my best in guiding them into doing this. I held 2 Major Degrees in my district this past year and we had a great turnout for both. Fraternally Yours, Chris Kreikemeier
Deputy Gasper called on Secretary Borytsky to conduct the official roll call of delegates. Secretary Borytsky 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 Gasper – present State Chaplain Borowiak – excused (ladies program) State Secretary Borytsky- present State Treasurer Richardson – present State Advocate Svoboda - present State Warden Wolf – present Immediate Past State Deputy Hergott - present
District #1, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have ___2______.
105 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 ___2______. 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 ___5______. District #6, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have ___8______. District #7, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have ___1_____. 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 __8______. District #11, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __5______. District #12, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __4 ______. District #13, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __5______. 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 __3______. District #16, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __2______. District #17, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __6______. 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 __6______. District #20, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __1______. 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 __6______. 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 __6______. 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 __2______. District #30, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __4______. 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 __4______. District #33, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __6______. District #34, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __6______. District #35, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __5______.
106 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 __4______. District #38, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __4______. District #39, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __5______. District #40, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __2______. District #41, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __2______. District #42, how many delegates do you have registered in your district. I have __5______.
Deputy Gasper called 3 times for any unfinished business.
Community Director Jim Pelster spoke on the Silver Rose Program. We will have the Silver Rose in Nebraska for 26 days, 49 councils have requested the Silver Rose. He will have the schedule complete and will publish at the Grand Knight Seminar in July.
Deputy Hergott called on Advocate Svoboda for his report on the resolutions. Advocate Svoboda reported the Resolutions Committee met on April 28, 2018 and approved all resolutions previously submitted to all delegates in March. Advocate Svoboda stated the committee moved to accept and approve all the recurrent resolutions, council 109323 seconded, motion passed. He continued, three resolutions were submitted by councils and that a separate vote for each is needed. A resolution supporting pro-life programs, seconded by council 2411, resolution passed. A resolution promoting pro-life publications, seconded by council 8010, resolution passed. A resolution granting honorary life status to Deacons, seconded by Council 1793, resolution passed. The approved resolutions are at attachment D. Advocate Svoboda returned the gavel to Deputy Gasper.
Deputy Gasper 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 Gasper relinquished the gavel to Past State Deputy Hergott. Past State Deputy Hergott announced the current slate of officers:
State Deputy – Lou Gasper State Secretary – Mark Borytsky State Treasurer – Matt Richardson State Advocate – John Svoboda State Warden – Robert Wolf
Past State Deputy Hergott called three times for any other nominations to any of the offices. Hearing none, I move that nominations be closed and declare the state of State Officers re-elected by acclamation. Council 6192 seconded, motion passed. The officers acknowledged
107 the assembly and thanked all for their continued support. Past State Deputy Hergott returned the gavel to Deputy Gasper.
Deputy Gasper stated we will now proceed with the election of delegates to our annual meeting in Baltimore, Maryland. 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 Gasper reported that he and the Immediate Past State Deputy Hergott were automatic delegates by virtue of their positions on the State Council. The Chair moved that Fr. Kenneth Borowiak, State Chaplain be one of the delegates to our supreme convention. Council 10412. Motion passed. Deputy Gasper continued, we have received 6 nominations at the close of the business meeting on April 28th. The chair will entertain a motion to accept these 6 delegates. Council 10965 so moved, seconded by Council 11800. Motion passed. Deputy Gasper continued in accordance with Supreme and Nebraska by-laws, he will appoint the 7th delegate. Deputy Gasper continued, during the Past State Deputies annual breakfast, it was decided that PSD Richard Lowery would serve at alternate for Deputy 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 Baltimore are:
DELEGATES: State Deputy Louis Gasper Immediate Past State Deputy Anthony Hergott Rev Kenneth Borowiak, State Chaplain Designate Chris Kreikemeier – Council 2272 – West Point Mark Prybl – Council 7704 – Crete James Hubschman – Council 10305 – Fort Calhoun Robert Allen – Council 10305 – Grand Island Jim Pelster – Council 1861 – Sidney Lawrence Koerner – Council 7704 – Crete
Deputy Gasper 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 37 years of continuous growth, keep up the hard work. He continued the first principle of our order is charity; we must help care for each other. He applauded the use of honor cords for graduating high school seniors, a promising endeavor to have young men join our order. Director Conrad
108 stated he was on his last year as a director on the Supreme Board. He thanks Nebraska for their strong support of Supreme’s program “Rebuilding the Cradle of Civilization.” He concluded by congratulating the officers on their reelection. Deputy Hergott called on General Agent Kevin Pfiefer for any closing remarks. General Agent Pfiefer spoke for General Agents Tony Swanson and Neil Pfeifer a swell; he 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 Schaefer. 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 supported the staff of the Younes Conference Center was in helping to ensure the success of our convention. Director Schaefer continued that the final talley of the ICC Awards would soon be on the Nebraska website. He reminded us of Bishop Conley’s rosary around UNL this evening in Lincoln and encouraged all to attend. He concluded by reminding us of the state golf tournament in Bellevue on June 2nd. He wished all a safe journey home. Deputy Gasper called on Director Dwyer. Director Dwyer reminded us that there are two more months to go and to keep recruiting. We can achieve the Circle of Honor for Nebraska. He acknowledged the hard work of the Regional Membership Chairmen. Deputy Gasper Master Haiar, Our master stated he has three 4th degree exemplifications scheduled; Lincoln on May 5th, Bellevue on June 3rd and St. Paul on August 26th in conjunction with the council’s 100th anniversary. Deputy Gasper 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, Food for Families Report, 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 30th would be due by August 15th. He informed the assembly about the history of supreme donations to Nebraska Special which is based on the supmission of the form 4584, Support of Special Olympics. Four years ago, Nebraska received $1000, two and three years ago, we received $3,000 and last year we received $4,000. A report of no activity or support does help Nebraska. This past year we went to email billing for our semi-annual per capita statement. There were some growing issues with a new system, it worked reasonably well and saved the State Council over $300; we will be continuing this. 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 Gasper called on Past State Deputy Hergott. He congratulated the officers on their re-election. He reminded us that Nebraska has a 39 year record of continuous growth, one of two jurisdictions in the order with this great record. Deputy Gasper called on Warden Wolf for closing remarks. Warden Wolf thanked all for coming and said it was a great weekend. He reminded his assistant wardens to turn in their
109 badges to him prior to leaving. He stated that the video on his son, James, would be released in May. Deputy Gasper called on Advocate Svoboda. Advocate Svoboda again thanked all for the confidence and warm welcome he received. He stated that giftsd to the three bishos was a real “wow” factor. Deputy Gasper called on Treasurer Richardson. Treasurer Richardson 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. He did not have a final talley on the sweepstakes; he estimated it as $22,000. Deputy Gasper called on Secretary Borytsky for closing remarks. Secretary Borytsky thanked all for the support and the vote of confidence for his re-election. He thanked his registration team. Deputy Gasper thanked all for a great convention. He stated that the brother Knights in Nebraska are an important part of what we do. He acknowledged John Arkfeld for his 74 years of membership in our Order. He acknowledged Fr. Mike Schmitz, a former District Deputy, he started 7 councils. Deputy Gasper thanks all of the District Deputies and s special thank you to Past State Deputy Hergott for his guidance and support. He continued, it ids the Nebraska Knights who make donations, not the officers. The Grand Knight Seminar will be July 14 and 15 in Grand Island. The huddle meetings held whit past year will continue. 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 Baltimore, please remain in the chamber after the close to receive registration information. This meeting of the 113th Annual Nebraska State Convention is now adjourned at 11:00 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
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APPROVED 2018 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 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.
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 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.
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 113th 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 Michael Conrad as our 2018 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, and all officers and counselors thereof.
Appendix E
111 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 requires the furnishing of reproductive services without exception.
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/or similar unions.
7. RESOLVED, that we encourage parents to foster a Christian atmosphere in their homes that allows them to openly discuss decency in media and entertainment and their concerns about misuse of the Internet with their children; 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.
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.
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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 2019 State Convention and pay the fair and reasonable expenses thereof.
2. RESOLVED, the State Council shall host an annual Chaplains’ Seminar during the 2019 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 2018- 2019 Columbian Year and pay the actual expenses thereof.
4. RESOLVED, the State Council shall publish the Knights Courier quarterly for the 2018-2019 Columbian Year and pay the fair and reasonable expenses thereof; and FURTHER RESOLVED, each issue of the Knights Courier published during the 2018-2019 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; and FURTHER RESOLVED, all such prior assessments made and collected are approved.
7. RESOLVED, for the 2018-2019 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.
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
113 A. SUBORDINATE COUNCIL PROPOSED RESOLUTIONS.
a. Publication of Pro-Life Organizations:
WHEREAS, the Knights of Columbus is an organization that recognizes the sanctity of human life; and WHEREAS, the Knights of Columbus publishes Columbia magazine on a monthly basis for its members; and WHEREAS, at least one issue a year typically features articles on the sanctity of life; and WHEREAS, many people unwittingly support anti-life organizations without realizing it through financial investment and consumer purchasing; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Knights of Columbus publicize organizations whether public or private, for profit or not-for-profit, that support the sanctity of life; and FURTHER RESOLVED, that the names of significant Pro-Life organizations as determined by the Supreme Board of Directors be published and recognized annually in Columbia magazine; and FURTHER RESOLVED, that Knights and their families be encouraged to support the identified Pro-Life organizations. b. Publication of Pro-Family Organizations:
WHEREAS, the Knights of Columbus is an organization that recognizes the sanctity, purpose, and value of traditional marriage as a loving union between one man and one woman—as instituted at the beginning of creation by God, and as taught in truth by the Catholic Church; and WHEREAS, the Knights of Columbus publishes Columbia magazine on a monthly basis for its members; and WHEREAS, at least one issue a year typically features articles on the sanctity of marriage; and WHEREAS, many people unwittingly support anti-traditional marriage organizations without realizing it through financial investment and consumer purchasing; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Knights of Columbus publicize organizations whether public or private, for profit or not-for-profit, that support the sanctity of traditional marriage; and FURTHER RESOLVED, that the names of significant Pro-Traditional Marriage organizations as determined by the Supreme Board of Directors be published and recognized annually in Columbia magazine; and FURTHER RESOLVED, that Knights and their families be encouraged to support the identified Pro-Traditional Marriage organizations.
c. Honorary Life amendment proposal
Be it Resolved, that the Supreme Council take action to amend Section 118, paragraph d. of the Charter, Constitution and Laws of the Knights of Columbus to include Ordained Deacons as Honorary Life members. Paragraph d. to read as follows; Members who have attained the actual age of 70 years and who have been members of the Order for twenty-five consecutive years, and those who have been members of the Order for fifty years regardless of age, shall be designated as Honorary Life members and on due request in writing they shall be exempt from further payment of dues per capita charges and assessments. All Priests, Members of Religious Communities, and Permanent Deacons, upon taking the First Degree of the Order, shall automatically be designated as Honorary Life
114 members and therefore shall be exempt from further payment of dues, per capita charges and assessments.
DATED this __1st___ day of May 2018.
______///s///______John A. Svoboda Nebraska State Advocate
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NEBRASKA STATE COUNCIL
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 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
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Appendix F
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 2015-17 Anthony W. Hergott Rev John Rooney, Osceola
(City of residence during term of office) (Some titles may reflect later honors)
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Appendix E
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