Council Remembers Past GK Lindewirth

Members of the Harvester Knights of Columbus ask for prayers and support of friends, family and brother Knights after the passing of past Grand Knight Ray Lindewirth.

Ray passed away at DePaul Medical Center on Wed. Dec. 14 after a series of complications including congestive heart failure and kidney problems.

The council was blessed to not only have Ray as one of its members, but were honored to have such a great Knight and friend as its leader as Grand Knight from 1997-98. Ray was also an active volunteer with the Sts. J&A Care Service.

Medical issues prevented Ray from being an active member in the council during his later years, but he remained tied in to the council by continuing to communicate with members and Grand Knights eventhough he may not have physically been at meetings.

Ray wasn't the most wealthiest member of the council but the richness he held in his heart and his desire and willingness to do whatever he could on behalf of the council or those in need set an example for all Brother Knights and mankind to strive for.

Funeral arrangements will be posted here as they become available. Until then, we ask that you pray for the Lindewirth family and the council in general as everyone deals with the loss of Ray and celebrates in the joy of God having given us such a great friend, leader, and admirable man.

Grand Knights Column -- Dec.

Brothers,

I would like to take the time to wish you and yours a very Merry Christmas! As we close out this very busy year I would like to thank each and every one of you for being a friend, a brother, and a good Knight.

I know that there are other things we all can be doing, but I have to tell you that I am overwhelmingly impressed with the turnouts that we've had for Tootsie Roll Drive; No Hunger Holiday; Breakfast With Santa; and Adopt a Family. You guys always seem to come through. For this I commend you one and all.

I want one more good showing from you if you can spare the time. Our worthy lector has announced that he is preparing a wonderful Christmas dinner immediately following our December Meeting. Let's celebrate another successful year together.

Fraternally
Dan Breneman
Grand Knight

Breakfast with Santa a Success

Dear Margo Miller,

Once again you and your Ladies Auxiliary out did yourselves. A wonderful time was had by all! The men of the Harvester Knights of Columbus wish to Thank you for having us along for the ride. Although our turn out was low, the few that did attend had a great time. I wish to personally thank you and the ladies for all that you have done for me. By including our council in to your activities you have made my job all that much easier to manage. Again, Thank you!

I look forward to next years function. Please keep in mind that I am more then happy to attend any of your planning meetings and to provide you with more assistance if it should be required. Please keep me informed.

Sincerely,
Glenn Korando
Director of Family Events
Harvester Knights of Columbus

To View a slideshow from the festivities click on the headline for this story or go here:

2005 Adopt-A-Family Information

This year the Harvester Knights are adopting two families.

Family #443 is a family of four. The 15 year old son is on a Respirator. Their greatest need is for Distilled water since the Respirator requires about a gallon a day. Andrew also needs Prefolded Cloth Diapers from Wal-Mart and cannot wear long sleeves or turtlenecks. This family consists of mom, dad, daughter 16 and son 15.

Family #460 is a single parent family consisting of a mom and her 10 year old daughter.

Any additional gifts and/or food beyond what is on the boards are welcome. Cash donations will also be accepted and Michael’s wife will handle the shopping.

Gifts need to be dropped off at the Tobin house or given to Michael Tobin by December 4, 2005.

Gifts may be wrapped or Michael’s wife will wrap them. If wrapping the gift please attach a gift tag with the recipient’s name and the family number on it.

If you have any questions please call Michael at (636) 387-7373 – home or (314) 503-7373 – cell or email stlgateway@aol.com.
For Drop-off the Tobin’s address is #6 Zeus Ct.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Adopt-A-Family Gifts Still Needed
Family 443:
Woman’s Jeans Size 7/8 short for Jeanne
Oral B Pulsor Toothbrush for Jeanne
Walgreen's Gift Card for Jeanne
Lotion and Body Spray Mandarin/Mango scent from Bath & Body Works for Brittany
Hollister Hoody for Brittany
AXE Body Wash & Deodorant Stick (Kilo scent) for Andrew
Cardinal Bathroom Towels for Andrew
Two Short Sleeve Shirts Boys size 18 for Andrew
Sweatpants in Boys size 16 for Andrew
Prefolded Cloth Diapers from Wal-Mart
Outdoor Rolling Trashcan

Family 460:
Button-up Sweater in Woman’s Size 2XL for Temeka
Winter Coat in Woman’s Size 2XL or 24 for Temeka
Pantyhose to fit Woman with Pant Size 24 long for Temeka
Underwear to fit Woman with Pant Size 24 for Temeka
Girdle to fit Woman with Pant Size 24 for Temeka
Game boy SP for Anissa-Marie
Slackers Gift Card for Anissa-Marie
Two Winter Outfits in girl’s plus size 18 ½ /2XL for Anissa-Marie–Sears has good selection
Tights in Adult size medium for Anissa-Marie
New Pots/Pans
Indoor Electric Grill
Rice/Vegetable Steamer

Adopt-A-Family Food Still Needed
Several Shop ‘n Save Gift Cards
Turkey
Bottles of Gatorade
2 Boxes of Instant Potatoes & Cans of Gravy
2 Boxes of Bisquick & 2 Syrup
Peanut Butter & Jelly
Canned Vegetables
8 Jars of Pasta Sauce
Condiments: Mayo/Mustard/Ketsup/Pickles
Canned Tuna
Canned Stew/Chili
Bottles of Fruit Juice
4 Packages of Cookies/Snack Cakes
Canned Fruit/Applesauce
Boxes of Hamburger or Tuna Helper
Splenda
Boxes of Instant Oatmeal
20 Gallons of Distilled Water
Women’s Deodorant
Household Cleaning Supplies
Shampoo & Conditioner

No Hunger Holiday Sets Records in 15th Year

Well No Hunger Holiday once again was pulled off with amazing success and the 2005 version, the 15th annual instalment of the event, set new records for meals provided (1,425) and indivduals served (more than 5,000).

Thanks to all the Knights who help make this event such a huge success.

To see pictures from the 2005 No Hugner Holiday, click here:
http://pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/harvesterknights/album?.dir=/2604&.view=t

Budget Posted on Council Site

Don't forget to check out the 2006 budget that is posted for review on the Council's Main Web site. The budget is posted in a password protected section of the site, so e-mail the Web master if you need access, but please review the budget so the time used for discussion at the meeting when it is time to vote on the budget can be kept to a minimum.
You can click on the headline below to go to the council's main web site.

Two Events Slated for Family Arena in Nov.

Brothers,

Please check your schedules and see if you can help us at the Family Arena on either of the following 2 dates.
Thanks,

Saturday 12-Nov Motocross 4-workers 201 5:30 PM Harvester KofC


Tuesday 22-Nov SLU vs EIU 8-workers PORTABLES 5:30 PM Harvester KofC


Dave Meglio
314-610-7139

Key to New Members: Ask Someone to Join

As we all know, membership in the Knights of Columbus and especially our council is something we should all take great pride in. I know I do. That is why it should be very easy to recommend joining our organization to others. Please think about this the next time you go to church or any other function when you meet fellow Catholic gentlemen, Don't be bashful, just ask them if they are Knight. If they say yes, invite them to our meeting. If they say no, ask them to join.

I realize that many of you would have a hard time explaining all the programs that we are involved in. That is why at our Nov. 21 meeting we are going to do something different. I am asking every member that is coming to the meeting to bring along a potential new member. What we are planning is to conduct a very short business meeting without the Program Directors reports. The business meeting should last about 15 minutes and then we will invite the prospects in for the Program Directors reports. Each director will explain what their program involves. This will cover all the programs so you don't have to attempt to explain them. Hopefully, after hearing about all of the great things the Knights of Columbus and our council does for the church and the community, the prospective new members will be ready to join!
Please, take advantage of this opportunity and do your part---ASK someone to come with you on Nov. 21. Better yet, offer to pick them up and bring them to the meeting. This will go a long way in showing this prospect that you really do want them.

Breakfast With Santa Scheduled Once Again

We have once again been asked to participate in this years Breakfast with Santa, along side the Cottleville Knights and there wonderful Ladies auxiliary. This year’s function has been scheduled for Saturday, December the 3^rd from 9:00am to noon. I have no further information at this time regarding assistance needed form our council members. I will stay in touch regarding these issues. In the mean time, plan to attend.
Bring your children, grandchildren and even if you don’t have children, please make an effort to show your comradery. Thanks for your time.

Cordially, Glenn Korando

636-928-9144, 314-570-8139, korando@concentric.net

Thanks Goes Out to All UMB Worker

Once again, many THANKS to all who worked Riverport this year. Our last concert was October, 1. Fifty-seven (57) different people worked 114 shifts covering 22 concerts. We have grossed a total of $6,797 and we have contributed $250 to the Sts. Joachim & Ann Parish Retreats for Bible purchases.

The average earnings per concert was $309 (up from $250 last year) and the average earnings per volunteer was $60. Below are individuals who worked this year and the number of concerts each worked. Special thanks my Leads, Mark Parker, Kevin Gahagen, Bob Fusinatto, Mike Thomas, Barry Young, Kevin Smith, Cathie Arnold, Craig Lalumandier, Pierce Conley & Dan Breneman. Because of their help as Leads my shifts were kept to reasonable amount this season. In addition, Conley, Deaton Ellis, Parker, Dan Stamer, John Steinlage & Bill Struckmann went above & beyond by working 4 or more shifts!

ADAMS, MANDEE 1
ANTROBUS, RICH 1
ARNOLD, CATHIE 3
ARNOLD, KIRK 1
ARNOLD, KYLE 2
BIONDO, JASON 1
BISHOP, MELVIN 2
BLUESTONE, JAY 1
BOONE, KENNY 1
BOONE, JESSIE 1
BRENEMAN, BARTH 1
BRENEMAN, DAN 2
BRENEMAN, JOHN 5
BREWER, BOB 2
CONLEY, PIERCE 4
DICKHERBER, TONY 3
DUNNERMANN, DALE 1
ELLIS, DEATON 4
FLETCHER, BOB 1
FUSINATTO, BOB 3
GAHAGEN, KEVIN 3
GITTEMEIER, RHONDA 3
GROSS, KAY 2
HAKE, JEFF 1
HEIST, GENE 1
HELFRICH, DOUG 1
HOELSCHER, JOHN 2
HOWARD, BRAD 1
HOWARD, CHERYL 1
KORANDO, GLEN 1
LALUMANDIER, CRAIG 1
LAPPE, CRAIG 2
MALONE, LAURIE 3
MOLONEY, GEORGE 3
OBERKRUM, BOB 1
O'DONNELL, SEAN 1
PARKER, MARK 5
POSS, DAVE 1
POSS, JILL 1
RADA, DOUG 3
REAVEY, JOHN 1
RUTSCH, DON 1
RUTSCH, KAREN 1
SCHINDLER, RICH 2
SHADRACH, TOM 2
SMITH, KEVIN 1
STAMER, DAN 5
STAMER, GINGER 1
STEINLAGE, JOHN 5
STEINLAGE, SHEILA 3
STRUCKMANN, BILL 4
SYLVESTRI, BOB 1
THOMAS, MIKE 2
TOBIN, MIKE 1
YOUNG, BARRY 2
YOUNG, SUE 2
WILLIAMS, DANIELLE 3

Special Thanks to Parish Picnic Parking Lot Crew

Sts. Joachim and Ann Parishioners attending the annual Parish Picnic found parking a little bit easier this year. With the uninterrupted use of the Methodist parking lot (Thank You Church of the Good Shepard!) and direction from Harvester parking attendants, picnic patrons and other volunteers were able to find more parking close to the action. I want to thank each of you who assisted with parking, including many Knights who were members of other parishes. Prior to the picnic many, of you may have seen the picnic committee’s newsletter recognizing the council for the job it has done at the event in past years. Though there are over 1200 volunteers working the picnic each year, the committee thought enough about our behind the scenes effort to single out the Harvester Knights in a parish wide publication!

Thanks to Jim Radi, Gene Heist, John & Marsha Hoelscher, Jim Barhorst, Barry Young, Melvin Bishop, Craig Lalumandier, Tony Dichkherber, John Chaffee, Dan & Bob Stravalli, Rich Schindler, Gene Stark, Tom Rothermich (2 shifts), Deaton Ellis, Rich Antrobus, Mike Nahrstedt, Randy Hoester, Bob Fletcher, Bill Struckmann, Red Dog Leader (Doug Rada), Tom Shadrach, and Bryan Breneman. Special thanks to Shawn Freeman (a friend of the Knights) for beverage supplies he made available from the back of his unlocked vehicle!

John Breneman

Family Arena Event Set for Oct. 21

Brothers,
Our next Family Arena date is Friday October 21st :

Friday 10/21/05 Mo River Otters Hockey (Stand # 205)
5:30 - 9:30pm (9 stand workers needed)

Please check your schedules and let me know if you can work a shift that evening.

Thanks for your consideration,

Dave Meglio
314-610-7139 (Cell)

Crazy Bowl Set for Saturday

Don't forget to get your team signed up for the Crazy Bowl this Saturday, spots are going fast but we still have plenty of lanes open.
Once again this year we will have a silent auction in conjunction with the crazy bowl.
St. Charles Lanes
2187 First Capitol Drive
Check in 6:30 p.m.
$15 per person includes:
3 games of bowling
Shoe rental
Beer and soda
Must be 21 years old

For more info or to reserve a lane
Call Mike @ 928-2490 or Tom @ 928-0036

Benefit Planned for Kendra Davis

Below is some information about a benefit planned for the wife of J&A parishonor and Knight Dan Davis, Kendra.

Strategic Planning Meeting Set

Details are set for the 2005 strategic planning meeting. In addition to this meeting being a great opportunity for members of the council, as well as directors and officers, to gather and go over long-term goals and projects for the council, the meeting will take the place of the September Director's Meeting.
This year, the strategic planning meeting will take place on Saturday, Sept. 10 at 10:30 a.m. There is not real structure to the meeting, but we hope to have it wrapped up by 4:30 p.m. If you can't make the entire meeting, but can stop by for an hour or so, please do so.
The meeting will take place at the Forest Hills Condo Clubhouse, 305 King Dr, St. Charles, MO.
Click the headline above for a map to get to the clubhouse. . .You won't be able to see the clubhouse from the street, but park in the spots provided on King drive and make your way back behind the Condos and the clubhouse is located right next to the swimming pool.
If you get lost or can't find the place, call Kevin Smith on his cell phone (314.623.2734).
Bring your ideas for what you want you see the council do over the next two years.

Breneman Excited for Future of Council

Grand Knight's Column
By Dan Breneman

Brother Knights,

It is month two (2) and we are already moving and shaking.
I have received a list of what I affectionately call our "snailmailers" and they will be getting an August printout in the mail in the coming weeks. Please keep in mind these will not be finely edited copies in that they will be printouts of our WebLog.

In regards to our WebLog please look at our new email group that has been set up. We have been working on a group e-mailing list that will originate from our specific organization. We have set up the following group; harvesterkofc@yahoogroups.com See the item below on the blog for info on how to register for the new group. You can keep your info up to date and therefore stay up to date on anything that needs to be distributed and cannot wait until the next meeting.

Don't forget the strategic planning session on Sept. 10. We will gather at 10:30 a.m. (donuts and coffee provided) then go over the direction of our council throughout the day. All members are welcomed and directors and officers are encouraged to attend, if you can't block out the whole afternoon, at least come by for an hour or two to give your input on various projects or areas you want to focus on. There will be more details and a map with directions at the August meeting.

On a very serious note, I would like everyone to keep the Rutch Family in their prayers. Don and Karen Rutch's daughter Katie was in a very serious car accident last week and will be undergoing several surgeriesÂ…

Everyone's Summer is winding down and I would like you to keep in mind during your busy schedule that just one moment of your time can mean the world to another in need. Say a prayer, pay a visit, offer to help.

Coming SoonÂ…
I will be coming out with a phone tree for our "snailmailers" that will not be able to register for our group emails.

Thank You
Daniel E. Breneman

August Meeting Starts at 7 p.m.

Don't forget that the August meeting will start at 7 p.m. instead of the usual starting time of 7:30. The early start time is due to the installation of new officers and the District Deputy is hopefull that as many officers and members as possible can attend.
Also, don't forget the August meeting will be a 1st Degree, which is scheduled to start at 7:30, so if you know of any prospective members or individuals that you think would make a great Knight, bring them to the August meeting so they can become members of the council.

Council Launches New Yahoo Group

The Harvester Knights of Columbus have created a new group via Yahoo Groups that will allow the leadership of the council to manage contacts and e-mail blasts eaiser and will also allow members to post messages, and stay in touch each with one another.
The main focus for the group though is creating an e-mail list that can be managed by more than one person, so help populate the list by adding your info now:



Click to join the Harvester KofC group

You can click on the headline aboove to go directly to the group page.

5 Events Left @ UMB/Riverport

UMB Update
By John Breneman

We have five events remaining!
Thanks to all who have volunteered so far. The next concert to be staffed is August 26th, a Friday night event featuring 50 Cent which will require 4 volunteers (time will be announced).
James Taylor is Wednesday, August 31st. The lead for JT needs to arrive at 5:30 and I am looking for two 6:15 slots to be filled. Please check your schedules and volunteer by calling John Breneman at 636-978-0234 or 314-422-1691 or email him at john@brenemangomez.com.
Remember, you must wear black shorts or slacks, NO jeans & No open toed shoes. Thanks in advance for your help!

4th Degree Golf Tourney Set for Sept. 2

Once again the 4th Degree Assembly will be holding a charity golf outing on Friday Sept, 2 at the Warrenton Golf Club.
This year the event will focus on raising funds for seminarians and other vocation related efforts. Plenty of spots are still available, and you can play even if you aren't a 4th Degree (you can play even if you aren't a Knight actually). So round up some friends, co-workers, potential Knights, and get your foursome signed up for the tournament.
Cost includes 18 holes of golf with a cart, a BBQ dinner after the round, drinks on the course, and plenty of fun and good times.
For more information, or to sing up your foursome, contact Mike Narkawicz by e-mailing him at narkawiczmandc@cs.com

Entertainment Books On Sale

Once again the Harvester Knights of Columbus will be selling the popular Entertainment Books for 2005.
Gene Stark will be coordinating the selling of the books, so if you want to buy one, or a batch, see Gene and he will take care of you.
This is an easy fund raiser for the council, with nearly $500 generated a year from the sale of the books, so make sure you buy yours today and spread the word with your co-workers, friends and family.

Crazy Bowl Slated for Oct. 15

Mark your calendars now, the 2005 Harvester Knights of Columbus Crazy Bowl will take place on Oct. 15.
Once again the event will include three games of bowling, beer and snacks, a silent auction including autographed Blues jerseys, and of course lots of fun and good times.
We will start reserving lanes and spots for the event soon, so round up your group and make sure you don't miss out on this great time.

Mattingly Gets Praise for Children's Book

The son of current District Deputy Tom Mattingly is gaining headlines for his recently published children's book, "Father Like a Tree," that was recently self-published after Tom's son (named Tom also, Tom wrote the book under the pen name of Matthew S. Field), lost his wife to an aggressive form of breast cancer.
To read a great piece in the St. Louis Post Dispatch about the book, how it came about and the struggles that Tom deals with everyday as a widow and father of three, click on the headline above.
To go to the book's official web page, click here:
http://www.fatherlikeatree.com

Summer Softball Season Stars Aug. 2

The second summer softball season starts Tuesday, August 2 at the Ozzie Smith Sports Complex in O’Fallon.
The complex is on TR Hughes Blvd, north of 70 and just south of the TR Hughes Ballpark. We are playing on field F. There are two teams once again.
The Breneman team plays at 7:30 & the Malone team plays at 8:30. Schedules will be handed out at this first game.
If unable to play CALL YOUR CAPTAIN well in advance of game day. You will note there are many on the roster however there are many absences scheduled already so don't assume that they will have enough players without you. See everyone on Tuesday!

New Grand Knight Eager To Start Tenure

Grand Knights Column
By Dan Breneman

Brother Knights,
First of all I would like to thank each and every one of you for expressing your faith in me by electing me as the Grand Knight of y(our) council. No that wasn’t a typographical error your council is our council and vice versa. I am damn proud to be sitting here typing this first of many newsletter articles for your informative entertainment.

As my first message to you I want you to think of this as an open invitation from here on out that I want you to get involved. I am not just talking about work. I am talking about the fun as well. We are constantly looking for more ways to get y(our) council together for the purpose of having fun. Come out to our director’s meeting (everyone in the council is welcome to attend and give input).

Sometimes it just takes a fresh face and a new idea and we are off and running with it. Director’s meetings are held the first Monday of every month. Unless otherwise given ample notice the meetings are held at the Cottleville Hall at 7:30 p.m. Come out and join us.

Tom Mattingly, our Worthy District Deputy, has planned an evening at the St. Charles Council hall for the installation of officers in our district. Unfortunately I am unable to attend but would encourage anyone who would like to attend this evening of dinner and dancing with their spouse or significant other to please contact me as soon as possible so that I may provide you information on how to get tickets for this event. Harvester will plan a small ceremony of the installation of officers soon and will announce the particulars as they further develop.

Summer is a slow time for us as a council but a busy time for your families. I would like to close this letter to you by saying we do still have Riverport (UMB Pavilion) events and select Family Arena Events. If you get an email from either Dave Meglio or John Breneman they would greatly appreciate a response (yes or no) so that they can have more time themselves to spend with their families.

Have a wonderful Summer and see you at y(our) meetings.

Daniel E. Breneman
bookem99@yahoo.com

Breneman Honored as Knight of the Year

The June council meeting was packed with major events. In addition to it being the final meeting for Grand Knight Meglio, (members of the council showed their gratitude for Dave by showing up with their sweater vests on, some custom made that night), but it was also a perfect time to honor longtime KofC member John Breneman as the Harvester KofC Knight of the Year.

JB was presented with a statue of order founder Fr. McGivney and kind words, and some ribbing, were said about JB from Meglio, Deputy Grand Knight Dan Breneman and Chancellor Kevin Smith.

The award was well deserved for one of the council's most active and unsung members. Congrats John and we are all grateful to have you as part of our council.

June Meeting Minutes Posted

The June meeting minutes have been posted on the council's site.
Click on the "Members" link near the top of the page to access the password-protected section of the site.
Remember, to help speed up the meetings, the minutes will be approved "as posted on the council web site," so make sure you read them over so they can be approved. And of course, if you were unable to make the June meeting check out the minutes to see what you missed.
Click on the headline above for a link to the council's site.

UMB Needs for Upcoming Week

Brothers:

UMB staffing needs for next week include Thursday, July 21st for Averil Lavigne.
We need a lead at 5:00pm and 3 additional volunteers at 5:45.
We also are looking for help on Saturday, July 23rd for the Journey concert.
We need 3-4 volunteers at 6:15pm. We currently have the lead (Kevin Gahagen-5:30) and Bill Struckmann scheduled.
Please email jb at john@brenemangomez.com or call him at (636)978-0234.
Thanks!

July UMB Update

By John Breneman

We have five events in late July and early August which will need staffing.

Thursday, July 21st is Avril Lavigne, Saturday, July 26th is Journey, Sunday, July 31st is Sugar Water Festival????, Saturday, August 6th is Three Doors Down and Tuesday, August 9th is Motley Crue.

To date we have earned over $3,000 working 10 concerts. I am pleased that 43 different people have worked at least one shift. Special thanks to the Steinlage’s. John & Sheila have worked 6 shifts between them! THANK YOU!

Now let’s give them a break by checking your schedules and calling John Breneman at 636-978-0234 or 314-422-1691 or email at the address of john@brenemangomez.com to volunteer for these events.

Remember, you must wear black shorts or slacks, NO jeans & No open toed shoes. Thanks in advance for your help!

2005 State Softball Tourney Fun Time Again

Once again the Harvester Knights participated in the State KofC Softball tourney, held the last weekend in June at the Rainbow softball complex in Columbia, MO.
This year the council had two teams participate, one in the over-35 qualifier division and one in the Open Non-Qualifier Division. Both teams went 1-1 on the Saturday of the tournament but were unable to continue their ride in the tournament with Sunday loses.
The only thing that came close to matching the play on the field was the fun and good times had by the players and their family and friends off the field. The council might be looking for a new hotel for the 2006 tournament though after some run ins with hotel management.
The council was unsuccessful in its bid to host the 2006 tournament in O'Fallon at the Ozzie Smith Sports Complex after a surprise bid was put in by the Columbia Council to once again host the tournament. The Harvester Council only put the bid in for the tournament because they had been informed by many state-level leaders that no one wanted to host the tournament in 2006.
To see a slide show of pictures from the tournament, click on the headline above.

Scholarship Winners Announced

We awarded two $500 dollar scholarships on Friday May 27th at the J and A 8th grade graduation.
The winners were Shannon Lampkin and Danny Hunkins. The teachers and the principal assisted again this year to help make the selection of deserving students.

Meglio Thankful for Support from Fellow Knights

Grand Knight's Column
By Dave Meglio

Brothers,

Two years ago next month I took the job as Grand Knight of the Harvester Council. I stepped into the shoes of a lot of great guys that I respected and admired. I was a nervous wreck the 1st time I ran a meeting, trying to make sure that I provided you something meaningful each time we got together was hard work. I tried to draw upon all the things that I had learned from the Grand Knights of the past. I remember Bob Gragnani who was the GK when I first joined the Knights and how he was so inspirational to me when it came helping the Care Service or the No-Hunger Holiday. Guys like him set a standard for the way a council should be run. I remember how calm cool and collected Tom Shadrach always was whenever we would run into a bump in the road and how he would always say, "everything will work out, you’ll see" and it always did. How darn organized Eric Smith was and as my predecessor, he got me off on the right foot and was always there to answer any question that I had. These guys did an unbelievable job as GK, and I want to use this moment to let them know how much I appreciate their leadership.


I also want to thank a number of other guys. 1st I would like to thank all of the directors who worked with me for the past two years. For putting up with all of my hair brained ideas and who were patient enough to listen to them no matter how off the wall they were. I would like to thank Kevin Smith and Dan Breneman for their support and friendship. You guys are the best and I will be there to support you as you begin your terms as GK and DGK. I want to thank Gene Stark for doing a fantastic job as Financial Secretary. He quietly gets the job done and never looks for recognition. I would like to thank Craig Lalumandier for having the hardest last name to spell and for doing and impeccable job as secretary. Thanks goes to Virgil Beer and Kenny Boone for always having something tasty to eat at the meetings. Their job has a special place in my heart because it was the first job that I did when I joined the Knights. I would like to extend thanks to all the guys who are involved in the degree teams and because of your efforts; you make the Knights a unique and special organization. To the guys who are the membership directors, Tom O’leary and Jim Radi, these men understand that new members are the lifeblood of an organization like the Knights. Special thanks goes to Kevin Smith & Mark Laux for helping us take our council into the electronic era with the Web Site and the Blog (Web Log).

To the guys who make the council work, they do the Family Arenas, the UMB Pavilions, the No-Hunger Holidays, Adapt a Family, Tootsie Roll, and all the other events that we do over a year’s time.


Rich Antrobus
Dan Biondo
Melvin Bishop
Barth Breneman
Woody Borgschulte
John Chaffee
George Crawford
Denny Corr
Tony Dickherber
Earl Dirie
Bernie Donnelly
Dale Dunnerman
Craig Entwistle
Tom Fan
Bob Fletcher
Bob Fusinatto
Bob Brewer
Randy Henry
Nick Gavura
Jack Gillette
Craig Good
Bob Gragnani
Bill Hassall
Gene Heist
Doug Helfrich
Jack Hitt
Craig Lappe
Tom Lyons
Mike Narkawicz
Sean O’Donnell
Mark Parker
Dave Poss
Doug Rada
Joe Radi
John Reavey
Bo Riccardi
Tom Rothermich
Mike Sage
Bob Sage
Pat Stack
Tom Stefaniak
Bob Stravalli
Mike Tobin
Mike Witte
Steve Yallaly
Barry Young
Tom Oleary

Specail thanks goes to the following guys for doing way more than their share:

Rich Schindler
Deaton Ellis
Bob Silvestri
John Hoelscher
Mike Martchink
Glenn Korando
Mike Thomas
Pierce Conley
John Steinlage

Lastly, I would like to thank John Breneman who I bet would have never guessed 25 years ago that when he first saw this snot nosed kid at McDonalds that we would still be working with him today. You are the backbone of the Harvester Knights; I cannot say in words properly how much I appreciate the time and commitment that you have put into this Council. I value your friendship and I measure myself by your example.


I would like to thank you all for your time and if I missed any one, I’m sorry it was not intentional.

Dave Meglio
Harvester Knights

Family Camp Outing Approaching

By Glenn Korando
The weekend of June 3rd, 4th and 5th will be upon us soon. The weather has been great! Warm days and cool nights make for fantastic camping. I hope everyone can attend this year's event. Its sure to be as much fun as last years. Remember to pass the word to all Knights and or family members. Attached are the directions to the farm. Hope to see you all real soon.

What: 2nd annual Family Camp-out Sponsored by Harvester Council # 9625
When: June 3rd, 4th, and 5th
Where: The Korando Family Farm

If you missed last year’s event, you surely don’t want to miss this one!
There is more than enough space for any kind of camper, RV, and or tent set-up.
As last year, all those interested in joining this year’s festivities are urged to R.S.V.P., the reason for this is to make arrangements for porta potties and for Saturday’s joint meal meat purchase. This is not a requirement!! just a recommendation. We want to have enough for everyone.

For Saturday’s group meal we are asking everyone who attends to bring a favorite dish to share. It can be a warm dish, cool dish, dessert, or appetizer. We have the facilities to warm or keep cool anything you bring. Remember, there is a full kitchen, microwave, coffee maker, stove/oven, freezer and 2 refrigerators. There are 6 beds, a fold out couch and plenty of floor space for those who don’t have camping gear or for the ones who need a little more comfort! Just bring your favorite blanket and pillow!

There is 1 modern bathroom facility available for the ladies and as last year, porta potties and outside shower for the men.

To get there:
Take Hwy 44 West to exit 159 (Waynesville), go right, in approx. 3 miles you will hit a stop light which is Hwy 17, make a right and go approx. 11 miles until you are in the town of Crocker. Pass through town until you get to JCT. “U”, turn left on to “U” go approx.
1000 ft. to the first road on right which is Bluejay. Turn right on Bluejay and travel approx. 2 miles to entrance of the farm. Look for signs marked “KofC” entrance is on the left.

Contact Glenn at 636-928-9144, 314-570-8170
korando@concentric.net

Care Service Dedicates New Senior Center

A contingent of members from the Harvester Knights of Columbus was among those in attendance in Warrenton on Tuesday May 24 for the dedication of the new Senior Village which was built and funded through the efforts of the Sts. J&A Care Service.

The project is a joint effort between the Care Service, Catholic Charities of St. Louis, the Cardinal Ritter Institute and the St. Louis regional HUD office.

To view a slide show from the event, click on the headline above.

Purschke Wins Poker Tourney

A fellow Knight, from the Union Missouri council, took home top honors at the innagural Harvester Knights Poker Knight Texas Hold 'Em tourney on Saturday at the Harvester Lion's Hall.
Joe beat out 56 other players to take home top honors and the prize of $345. Of the 8 players who advanvced to the final table, the Harverst Knights had 5 members in it.
Thanks to all who showed up and we will be doing the event again, maybe next time we can get over 100 players to play?
To view phots from the event, click here: http://pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/harvesterknights/album?.dir=/8815&.src=ph

May Meeting Minutes Posted

The May meeting minutes have been posted on the council's Web site, click on the headline above for the direct link to the members area where you can download and view the minutes prior to the June meeting.

Hotel Rooms Blocked for Columbia

If you are planning on attending the KofC State Softball tournament on June 24-26, the council has a block of rooms at the Quality Inn (formerly Columbia Dome, formerly
Holidome...)
Due to budget issues the council will not be subsidizing hotel costs this year in Columbia but we have arranged a very attractive rate for players and their families who will be attending. Call the hotel to book your room, there is a chance the hotel will fill up with it being a high demand weekend for local hotels.

Quality Inn Columbia
1612 Providence Rd.
(573) 449-2491
$79.00 for a king room
$89.00 for a double room

UMB Bank Pavilion (Riverport) Season Begins

By John Breneman
We have begun! Our first concert of the 2005 year was Sunday May 1st. Thanks to Kevin Gahagen, George Moloney, Rhonda Gittemeier, Danielle Williams & Mandee Adams for working the booth with me. Our compensation structure has been changed to approximate 6.57% of all sales which should yield us better revenues than we have earned in the past.

We have three events in May which will need staffing. May 14th, Sammy Hagar; May 15th, Pointfest & May 27th Reba McEntire. PLEASE check your schedules and call me at 636-978-0234 or 314-422-1691 or email me at the address of john@brenemangomez.com to volunteer for these events. Note that the 14th is also our poker tournament night so we may have difficulty staffing that event, and the 15th will require two shifts for the all day concert. As in the past, you must wear black shorts or slacks, NO jeans & No open towed shoes. I look forward to a fun UMB season and your early sign ups are very much appreciated!

Minutes to April Meeting Posted

The minutes to the April meeting have been posted on the council Web site.
Click here to view the minutes: http://www.harvesterkofc.com/roster/members.html

Remember, this is a "password-protected" section of our council's site that can only be viewed by members. If you need to get a username and password, e-mail the council's Webmaster, Mark Laux at either of the addresses below:

webmaster@harvesterkofc.com
Mark.Laux@courts.mo.gov

Pope Benedict Elected By Cardinals

On only the second day of their enclave, Cardinals have elected a new Pope for the Catholic Church.
Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger of Germany becomes the 265th pope of the Roman Catholic Church. Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger is a longtime guardian of doctrinal orthodoxy has chosen the name Pope Benedict XVI.
God Bless the new Pope and we give thanks to the Lord for blessing us with John Paul II.

To read an in-depth package on Pope Benedict, click here:
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/7523254/

Slate of Officers Introduced at April Meeting

The slate of officers for the upcoming fraternal year was introduced to the membership at the April meeting for a first reading. Nominations for all positions remain open until the May meeting, when the election of new officers will be conducted.
The current Directors and Officers have recommended to the council passage of the entire slate of officers for the 2005-06 year (which begins on June 1). Elections will take place at the May meeting with the new officers installed in June.
The slate of recommended officers is:

Grand Knight: Dan Breneman

Deputy Grand Knight: Kevin Smith

Chancellor: Pierce Conley

Treasurer: John Breneman

Recording Secretary: Craig Lalumandier

Inside Guard: Bo Riccardi

Outside Guard: Barry Young

Trustee 1st Year: Dave Meglio

Trustee 2nd Year: Glenn Korando

Trustee 3rd Year: Michael Tobin

Warden: Rich Antrobus

Pope's Death Presents Good Time To Renew Yourself to Family and Council

______________________
Grand Knight's Column
By Dave Meglio

Brothers,
It's springtime! A time of new birth and renewal. It's not a coincidence that the Church chose this time of the year as the time to celebrate Jesus Christ's rising from the dead.

As we celebrate the life and mourn the death of Pope John Paul II, we are reminded about the Holy Father's constant preaching about spiritual renewal. So in the spirit of renewal I would like to ask each of you to renew you commitment to your family and the Knights.

After you make that new commitment maybe you might like to have some place to focus your efforts. Well, I've got a number of committees that can use additional help from our brother Knights.

A while back we talked about how we wanted to have our membership involved in assisting various committees to help accomplish various projects. When I discussed this in a previous article a number of Knights e-mailed me back asking about our committees and there functions, so here they are:

1. Membership: Jim Radi (Director)
New members is life blood of any organization, we must all assist in this function, even the best organizations have members that move, get transferred or worse yet pass away.
The Committee consists of 3 areas:
A. Recruiting New members
B. The 1st Degree Team
C. Retention

2. Council: Tom O'Leary (Director)
-- MR (Mental Retardation) "Tootsie Roll" drive. (Mike Sage and Bob Sage)
This is our annual commitment to Mental Retardation research and treatment and also the Special Olympics.
-- Blood Drives: (Gene Heist)
We currently work with the American Red Cross and Community Blood Services and we have 4 blood drives per year.

3. Family: Glenn Korando (Director)--Organizing the Family Christmas party the Easter Carnival and the Family Camp out.

4. Community: Bob Fusinatto (Director)
--Service and out reach to the community
--Care Service: Mike Tobin (Director) (Special Projects)
--Road Cleanup: Maintain a stretch of Mexico road in St. Peters
--Adopt-A-Family: Mike Tobin (Director) Care Service Christmas outreach.

5. Youth: Melvin Bishop (Director)
--Free Throw Contest
--Essay Contest
--Scholarships

6. Major Fund Raising Efforts:
--Trivia Knight: Kevin Smith
--Poker Knight: Kevin Smith
--Crazy Bowl: Tom Lyons
--Family Arena: Dave Meglio
--UMB Pavilion: John Breneman

7. No-Hunger Holiday: Frank Conard (Director)
Community outreach at Thanksgiving designed to give every needy family in St. Charles County an chance to have a full Thanksgiving dinner that they can enjoy at home with there family.

8. Church: Denny Corr (Director)
--Family Masses
--Roses for Life

9. Athletics: Tony Dickherber (Director)
--Softball, Darts, Horseshoes

10. Building: Pierce Conley (Director)
--Overseeing and conducting functions that will eventually allow us to purchase our own council hall.

11. Social: Jeff Smith (Director)
--Planning special social outings for Knights and there significant others

12. Communications: Kevin Smith (Director)
--E-Newsletter
--Website: Mark Laux (Director)

We would like every member to advise us about there interest in helping on one or more of these committees.

Thank you for your time,

Dave Meglio
314-610-7139

Poker Tourney Set for May 14

Details are in place for the inaugural Harvester Knights of Columbus Texas Hold 'Em Poker Knight.
The event will take place on May 14 at the Harvester Lion's Club on Central School Road (near the intersection of Hwy. N and Mid Rivers Mall Drive behind the Home Depot).
Buy in for the main event will be $35 and players will be able to have one re-buy back into the main event. There will be a prize pool of $1,000 for the main event. There will also be $20 consolation tables with the winner taking $100 in prize money away.
In addition to plenty of card playing, there will be a 50-50 drawing, door prizes, raffles and possible a "barrel of booze" (can you help in getting a wheel barrel and bottles of liquor donated?
We are hosting the event at the Harvester Lion's Club and are allowed to provide the beer for the participants, if you have the ability and connections to get beer donated from bar owners or others, or would like to donate some beer yourself, as much beer as we can get donated for free will help offset our costs and make this as big a money maker as possible.
We are hoping to sell out the event and the hall can accommodate 200 comfortably and 240 with a tight fit. Do your part to help promote the event. Make sure to sign up early to reserve your spot, or if you aren't much of a Hold 'Em player contact Kevin Smith about working that night.
For more information contact Kevin (smittyk@charter.net).
Also, help publicize the event by printing off a flyer and distributing it in your office and among your friends and family who aren't Knights.
To download the flyer about the Poker Knight, click here:

http://www.harvesterkofc.com/PromotionalFlyer.pdf>

Knights Celebrate Life of Pope John Paul II

It is with great sadness Catholics all around the world morn the loss of Pope John Paul II, but it is also with great joy we celebrate his life and the blessing he bestowed upon all of us.

The Knights of Columbus were one of the strongest advocates and partners of the Pope and the members of the Harvester council join in with all of our fraternal order in celebrating the life and mission of arguably one of the greatest Popes of all-time and without question one of the greatest champions of peace and human dignity of the last century.

To read about the extensive work between the Knights of Columbus and the Holy Father, click here:
http://www.kofc.org/news/releases/detail.cfm?id=4500">

Easter Carnival a Huge Success

Fun games for kids of all ages were included in the annual Easter Carnival

To see more pics from the Easter Carnival, click here:
http://pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/harvesterknights/album?.dir=/a393&.src=ph

Korando Thankful for Support on Event

Brother Knights, Ladies, family, friends and children;

What more can I say but Thank You, Thank You, Thank You! You did a fantastic job in the operation of what Father Roberston called "organized chaos". Once again you have come through for the Knights families, the parishioners of J&A and for our brotherhood. All my fear was for not! Although our turnout was lower than last year we still had an excellent attendance for Easter weekend. I heard nothing but praise from everyone I spoke with and its all because of you. I would like to thank both Father Doyle and Father Robertson for coming down and showing there support for this wonderful event and I would especially like to thank Father Doyle for the use of the hall.

A special note of thanks to all the Knights and families which donated not only there time but material things as well, God bless you. Without your special support and effort this event would have been a disaster. Again I must send out a special Thank you to a very incredible woman. Without her extra efforts this event couldn't take place. Sheila, Thank You !!!

In closing, this is a wonderful event which offers fun for the whole family. I want to wish you all a very Happy Easter and my God bless each and everyone of you. I look forward to your wonderful camaraderie which this joyous occasion will bring again next year.

Sincerely,
Glenn Korando
Family Events Director
Harvester Knights of Columbus

Grand Knight's Column -- March

Brothers,
Charity, Unity, Fraternity and Patriotism; the four precepts of Knighthood. The first is Charity and that is for a very good reason. We are first and foremost a charitable organization that defines itself through good works. We also are dedicated to insuring the welfare of our brother Knights. We choose to socialize with those who have similar values as ourselves. We are truly a unique organization because we are a Fraternal organization in service to the Catholic Church.

On Tuesday April 12th you have chance as a Knight to support Vocations to the Priesthood by attending the 2nd Annual Dinner banquet honoring the priests of the St. Charles Deanery at the Columns Banquet Center. The evening starts at 6:00pm with Dinner at 7:00pm. This years keynote speaker is Raymond Burke Archbishop of St. Louis. If you interested in attending please email me back as quickly as you can, last year the event was a sellout and it was very well supported by the Knights councils in St. Charles county.

I would like to ask your support in a couple of other areas also. Glenn Korando is wrapping up plans for the Easter Carnival and Egg Hunt at Sts. J&A is Saturday March 26. He still needs donations of small gifts and a few workers to help out the day of the event. You can reach Glenn at 636-928-9144 or @ korando@concentric.net .

We are also finishing up the main season at the Family Arena and we are about to start UMB Pavilion for 2005. These two events fund our over head for the council and allow us to make donations to many different charities. Please consider taking a shift when you are contacted by email or phone. Many hands make light work!

John Breneman still needs help working the parking lot at Sts. J&A during the parish expansion. Please drop John a note or give him a call and let him know that you would be willing to help even if you can't do it every week you might be able to give another brother Knight a week off. You can reach John at 636-422-1691 and @ john@brenemangomez.com .

Thankyou for your time ,

Dave Meglio
314-610-7139

Care Service Golf Tourney Set

1st Annual
Sts. Joachim & Ann Care Service Golf Outing
$1 Million Dollar Shootout
$10,000 3 Putt Contest

Thursday, April 28, 2005 Whitmoor Country Club
4 Person Scramble
Lunch Cook-Out & South of the Border Dinner Buffet
Sports Memorabilia Auction

Food -Fun-Prizes
Lunch Served at 11:30 a.m. Tee Off at 1:00 p.m.

Entry Fee $125 per player
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Name: _____________________________ Phone: ____________________
e-mail address: ______________________ I am interested in sponsorship Y___ N___

Additional Players:



Please fax to 636-477-6283 and send check to:
Sts. Joachim and Ann Care Service 4112 McClay Road St. Charles, MO 63304
Any Questions, Call Bill at 636-734-4207

Help Needed for J&A Parking Lot

We are in need of additional volunteers for the Easter Weekend Masses (except for 7:15 Sunday Mass). Please let me know if you can work a shift (a double if you are a regular volunteer). I would like to have a minimum of 7 people at each Mass. We will need to use the lower Care Service lot and drive & we will have radios to assist with communication. Please contact me if you can help.

I have also had shortages at the 5:00 pm Mass and the 8:45 dismissal (9:45-10:30). Please let me know as soon as possible if you are unable to work the lot. I am very grateful for the service of you “regulars” and need you to remain “regulars”, but don’t let your co-workers down by not finding a replacement (preferred) or asking me to help find a replacement.

Guy Weber, PLEASE get your Athletic Association Members to sign on as dependable volunteers. We are not quite ½ way through the service period & we can use some help, especially as vacation weather approaches when replacements will be required for the regulars.

Thanks, jb.
978-0234

Easter Carinval Approaching

Easter is just around the corner! March 26th is our annual Easter carnival and egg hunt and I am still short on help and donations. As you all are aware, this is our annual church community contribution and our time to shine! The bigger the Knights presence the better our organization looks to our fellow parishioners and to the community in large. This is also a great opportunity for recruitment.

Last year we serviced over 140 paid children accompanied by at least one parent. A lot of those parents were fathers! What a great way to recruit new blood into our organization. But in order to do so we will need a larger presence from you. There's not much effort involved.
Come, help were you can and while assisting, speak to every male parent that arrives about the benefits of being a Knight. Its that simple. If you can't help with physical labor you can certainly help by bring your children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews up to enjoy the mornings
activities.

As always, we need snacks from everyone! This is a vital part of the event. Cookies, cupcakes, donuts, any type of finger snack is welcome and appreciated. We could also use a few more inexpensive gifts. Stuffed animals, small games, bouncy balls, cars, dolls, ect. Anything you can pick up cheep! I mean cheep! Don't go out of your way, but if you happen to be in a store and walk by a clearance section, see something usable and you can afford to donate it to the cause, it will be greatly appreciated.

Guy's, this is crunch time! I need help. I cannot do this with out you. Work for the day is not subject to just the men of the organization. If your wives, girl friends or older children wish to
help bring them along. The more the merrier! Thanks again to all of you which have already committed your time and donations to this wonderful event. I look forward to seeing you all very soon. Please contact me to sign up to help or if you have a donation which needs to
be picked up.

My #'s are 636-928-9144 and m. 314-570-8139
Sincerely,
Glenn Korando
Family Events Director

Grand Knights Column -- Feb.

Brothers,
I've got a couple of short subjects that I wish to touch on this month.
The first one is why someone might consider joining the Knights and why you would or should stay in the Knights.
The answer, quite simply, is that if you want to help others in your local parish and the community around you then you should join the Knights. If you want to experience a broader sense of friendship with your fellow Catholics by helping others then you've come to the right place. If you want to have the opportunity to help your brothers in their time of need and create a much larger extended family that will help you in your time of need then the Knights is for you.
This organization has never been a place that I would join to network, but at the same time I enjoy helping my fellow Knights when they need it. I want to see our members succeed in their business ventures and I want all their families to have strong loving relationships.
I revel in the successes of their children and I feel their pain when they fail just like their children are part of my own family.
In this fast paced world where we know fewer and fewer of our immediate neighbors around us and our sense of community is shrinking, the Knights is a fantastic supplement because of our similar beliefs and family values. All you have to do to make this a reality is not be a name on a list. Get involved! Say yes the next time one of your brother Knights calls or emails you for your help and it will be the beginning of a very enjoyable experience.
I've also want to touch a little bit on our email list. Our list is meant to be used by our members to conduct the business of the brotherhood. It is not meant to send out jokes, so please if you have a joke that you would like to share with a few of your brothers please refrain from sending it our to the whole list. You could offend another brother Knight with out even knowing it.
Thanks again for your time,

Dave Meglio
314-610-7139

Remember to Pay Your Dues

A reminder that dues notices went out in December and our now considered past-due. . . Please remember to get your dues paid if you haven't done so yet to save the council the extra cost of sending out late notices and the time it takes to make phone calls reminding those who haven't paid. There are about 50 members who still have't paid their dues. You can bring your dues to the Feb. meeting or mail them to:
Gene Stark
14Shadowcreek Dr.
St. Peters, MO. 63376

New Lector Looking for Ideas

Brothers, I have taken over as the Lector for our council.
I am excited to take over this position and look forward to providing new and exciting meals at the council meetings. I hope to have an emphasis on more "home style" meals along the lines of what Bob Gragnani . and Pierce Conley provided to our council in recent years.
This I feel will give us a more personal atmosphere. I plan to start cooking the meals for the meetings, this not only save us some money, but also will provide for more brotherhood after the meetings.
A special thanks to Bob Gragnani for the suggestion he has given me from when he was lector. Also special thanks to Kenny Boone for being the Letor the last year or so as he moves on to help with both the Squires and staffing at UMB this summer.
I ask any of you that may have a request or an idea for a meal to please e-mail me. The plan as of now is to have the menu in the news letter each month. The February meeting is a first degree so we will have BBQ pulled pork and potato salad.
Thanks
Virgil Beer
e-mail ( virgilbeer@charter.net )

Easter Carnival Donations Needed

Gentlemen,
That time of year is rapidly approaching, the annual Joachim and Ann Easter egg hunt. This year's festivities will be held on Saturday, March 26th from 10:00 am to noon. I have decided to change the name to Easter carnival and egg hunt as this seems to fit the festivities a little better.
Once again I am in need of your services. I will require any Knight, there wives and or teenage children to assist with this years function. I will be sending out an e-mail for people to sign up and help with this years function. I will need people to help set up, run and clean up. I will also need donations from those of you that can.
Snacks!!! Lots of cookies, small cakes, donuts, etc., plastic ware, 8-12 oz cups, 8-12 oz insulated cups for coffee, paper plates, drinks( Kool -Aid, lemonade, instant please, enough to make several gallons), and most of all any item which can be used as a prize, whether it be a door prize, a small prize to redeem for a ticket in an egg or penny game prizes. Unfortunately, my sources for such items have not produced sufficient quantities and to keep the cost down I am looking to you for donations.
Please, anytime you or your wife are in a store look through the clearance items and pick up anything you think would work. Keep it as cheap as you can! and as many as you can afford. Every little bit helps. E-mail me if you have products to donate and I will make arrangements to pick them up.
Guy's, this is important, start looking now, don't wait until the night before thinking you can just run to Walgreens and pick up something, this isn't what I am asking of you. I'm looking for penny items, things to use as prizes for the games the children play, Lots of JUNK, JUNK, JUNK, bubble gum machine items.
I know this is asking a lot from you, but if we all search, even raid our kids rooms for items they no longer need or use, we could come up with a substantial pile of JUNK to give away. Contact me as soon as you have something.
Thanks for your help in this matter. With your help, this will be the best Easter Carnival ever.
Sincerely,
Glenn Korando, Family Director

First Degree Slated for Feb. Meeting

The Feb. 21 meeting will be the next First Degree that the council will be hosting. If you know of anyone who would be intersted in joing, or have been follow through with the 1kNight1Call program that Jim Radi started make sure you invite some of those future Knights you have spoken to to the First Degree, let Jim know if you think you have some future Knights to bring to the Feb. meeting.

Blood Drive Set for March 20

We had 26 good donors at the January 9th blood drive. Thanks to all that came out to work. The Community Blood Centers whom we had at that drive were extremely efficient and we will be having more drives with them in the future. They are recognized by the Archdiocese over the Red Cross. They are so efficient that we may not need as many Knights staffing the drive as we have had in the past. It's unfortunate that the donors were at least 1/3 to 1/2 of what we normally have in January. I suspect that the reason is the parking situation at J & A.
The next blood drive will be with the American Red Cross on Sunday, March 20th. If we don't succeed in getting more than 26 donors (goal would normally be 50) we will probably cancel the June 5th blood drive and future ones and resume after the construction phase.
Thanks again and remember, if just 50 of our Knights (you non-squeemish ones) came out to give blood we would make our goal. Just drop by and roll up your sleeve. It only hurts for a minute!! If Carol Rothermich can come out to work (for her husband mind you) AND give blood, anyone can!!

Insurance Agents Report

The Knights of Columbus insurance program issued
$6.224 BILLION in new life insurance in 2004,
representing an annual increase of MORE THAN
$ 1 BILLION. It is the first time the annual increase
in new life insurance has exceeded the $1 billion
mark. It represents a 19.2 percent increase over 2003.
Find out why so many of your brother Knights are
taking advantage of this Fraternal benefit. You are
not only helping yourself and your family but allows
the K of C to donate $250,000 to the Asia Disaster
Relief and provide free accidental death benefits to
all it's members as part of the Fraternal Benefit Program,
as well as many other programs our members enjoy.
Your future starts tomorrow. Contact me today.
Bob Klein F.I.C. / F.I.C.F.
(636) 928-0510 E-Mail bobkleinkofc@msn.com

Recommendations Made for Monthly Donations

At the Feb. Directors meeting a discussion was held regarding possible charities to allocate the council's monthly donations for both Jan. and Feb. The Directors ultimately decided to recommend to the council that the spending of Jan.'s funds be allocated to the Catholic Charities Tsunami relief efforts and Feb.'s funds be given to the MS Society through efforts that member Sean O'Donnell is conducting. Both issues will be raised at the Feb. meeting for consent before the council, and remember if you have a good cause you would like to help out bring your ideas to the Director's meeting.

Care Service Events Planned

Mark your calendar now for two big Sts. J&A Care Service events upcoming.
The Care Service will be sponsoring a golf tournament at Whitmore County Club on Thursday, April 28. If you are interested in playing or volunteering at the event let Michael Tobin know. Cost for the tourney is $125 per golfer and holes sponsorships and other sponsorships are also available.
On May 20 the Care Service will be holding a black-tie formal dinner at Old Hickory Country Club, again Michael Tobin will have more information about the event if you are interested. Tickets will be $100 for the event, which also happens to be on the same day as Mariam's birthday, so if you are looking of a unique gift for her why not come out and help support the Care Service's expansion plans?

No Hunger Holiday Given special Award

Congratulations to those Knights involved with the No Hunger Holiday effort. The Thanksgiving Day food drive was given special recognition last week as a Program of Distinction by the Missouri Head Start and Youth In Need groups. No Hunger Holiday board member Doug Helfrich attended a special luncheon at the Lake of the Ozarks where No Hunger Holiday was recognized.

Good Turnout For Otters Game

Thanks to all who attended the River City Otters game on Jan.. 29. There was about 25 in attendance as part of the Harvester Knights group, including Knights, their families and other friends.
Thanks to Tony Dickherber for organizing the event and we look forward to doing it again sometime.

Grand Knight's Column for Jan. 2005

Brothers,

I would like to welcome you to a new era in communication with the Harvester Knights of Columbus. The first e-newsletter is here and besides the financial benefits of about $ 150.00 per month in savings that we will accrue; there is so much more. For example will now be able to insure quick and speedy delivery of the newsletter while allowing our directors and others who contribute to the newsletter on a regular basis more time to get there articles to our communications director. The time that it takes to put the newsletter together will be cut by a couple of hours. We will be able to use color and maybe even streaming video. Please give us your feedback on how you like the new format and any ideas you have to make it better. Don’t forget to take a look at the slide shows that Kevin has posted from many of the events that the council has been involved in during 2004.

In other news we have a 1st degree planned to take place at the February meeting so if you know someone that you think would make a great Knight please let Jim Radi know and he will make contact with them to let them know that they have been recommended for Knighthood. You can reach Jim at this email address: radweazy55@yahoo.com .
I would to thank all of the Knights who have been assisting John Breneman with the parking lot duty over at Sts. J & A, I know it has been crazy since construction began and I’m especially proud of how patient you have been with the sometimes grouchy parishioners who do not like the wait after mass. I also want to thank Denny Corr who organized the Roses for life distribution on Saturday the 8th and Sunday the 9th. That same day Gene Heist was running a blood drive in the Cafeteria at J & A with Community Blood Services of St. Louis. Initial reports from those who gave blood and the organizers are very positive. Thanks Gene for all the hard work.

Finally I want thank Kevin Smith for the job he has been doing on the newsletter for the past few years and the two guys who did it before him Tom Shadrach and Bob Gragnani. This job takes an incredible amount of time and it has been taken for granted for years. I’ve had several occasions to help in the assembly of the new letter and just the folding and labeling of it takes several hours if you have to do it yourself. I guess that’s why I’ve been so driven lately to get this new format going. You guys are just some of the unsung heroes of the council who keep everything going so smoothly!

Thanks for your help,

Dave Meglio
314-610-7139
dmeglio@Meglio.com

P.S. While this site will contain most of our newsletter info, don't forget to check out www.harvesterkofc.com for other. We will use that site to post our monthly minues (none for December just yet though) and other items that need to be password protected, you can e-mail me to get a user name and password.

2005 MR Tootsie Roll Funds Distributed

Brother Knights,

Thank you again for all you have done to make The MR Program a success again this past October.

For those of you who are not sure what the program really is or what it is about, maybe the following will help explain it a little bit.

MR Program stands for "Mental Retardation" which I would like changed to "God's Special Children's Fund". That's just my feeling.

Every year in October we brother Knights stand at different stores and collect money for our special children. All the money we collect goes to the State Director of the MR Program. He then donates half of the money to SSM Cardinal Glennon Children's Hospital (which the State of Missouri Knights of Columbus helped to build). The other half of the money is sent back to our Council in what is called "The Turnaround Fund". No money goes to anyone other than the Hospital and the children.

This year our Turnaround Fund helped four deserving groups. They are: Booneslick State School ($908.37), Central Elementary School PTO ($500.00), Willow's Way ($500.00) and also The Special Olympics ($500.00). Our Turnaround Fund was $2,408.00 and it was all dispersed.

Thanks again for all your support.

Bob Sage
MR Chairman

To view photos of Bob's recent check presentation and some of the items our charities were able to purchase with funding given to them by the council over the last few years, click below. http://pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/harvesterknights/album?.dir=/b5b7&.src=ph

The KofC Development Center at Cardinal Glennon

In April, 1982, The Knights of Columbus Developmental Center was opened at Cardinal Glennon Children's Hospital, the only freestanding Catholic children's hospital in North America. It was begun as a joint collaboration between the Knights of Columbus Organizations of Illinois and Missouri, with the goal of providing comprehensive diagnostic and follow-up services, support and advocacy to infants, children and adolescents with developmental disabilities and their families.

The Center is staffed by two fellowship trained Developmental Pediatricians, a Developmental Therapist, and a Clinic Coordinator. We see approximately 850 patients/year, half from Missouri and half from Illinois. For the last five years we have served as the Developmental Pediatric Consultants to the early intervention program for the southern region of Illinois, Child and Family Connections, providing direct medical diagnostic consultation, advocacy, case management, and provider teaching opportunities. Approximately 60% of our patients receive Medicaid as their health insurance.

Over the last two decades, our increased understanding of the complex function of the brain and recognition of specific diagnosis, have allowed for the early identification of such disorders and the timely implementation of appropriate educational and rehabilitation programs. For the majority of children diagnosed with developmental disabilities, the rapid institution of appropriate measures such as the Tootsie Roll Drive helps us to accomplish this goal.

"1 kNight 1 Call" Campaign Continues for 2005

one kNight,one call..., our membership campaign this year is continuing to yield results, but we could still use more help.
Remember, if each member would ask one person each week to join, our council would not only grow in members, but would grow in what services we could provide our Church and community.
We have a GREAT council. Why not share it with your fellow Catholic gentlemen? Please contact Jim Radi at (636)447-2827 or email me at radweazy55@yahoo.com if you need any assistance or would like for the membership committee to contact a potential brother Knight.
Also, we have a lot of 1st degree members who have not taken their 2nd and 3rd degree yet. There is a degree coming up soon. Please take advantage of this opportunity to continue to grow in your Knighthood. Once you take this step, you will be asking yourself why you waited so long. It is definitely worth your time.
Myself or someone from the membership committee will be contacting you shortly with more details.

Parking Lot Duties to Continue Through August

Sts. Joachim and Ann Parishioners are now aware of the construction that has begun on the new Parish Center and have seen the impact on available parking. I want to thank each of you who assisted with parking since the Adopt-A-Family weekend. Your efforts Christmas weekend was very much noticed by other parish members and clergy.

This parking procedure and need for volunteers will continue through August, though it is anticipated that less bodies will be required with the increased familiarity by the parishioners. I am enlisting each Knight who is a member of Sts. Joachim and Ann to contact me and volunteer for a Mass parking team that will be scheduled just as an usher is scheduled to serve the Parish. It is not difficult and if enough teams are formed, the burden to serve will be minimized. Until we are able to reach all parish members, I am asking that you volunteer to work the equivalent of a Mass a week or every other week. The actual schedule will be perfected as we go, but your patience is also being requested.

Anticipated time slots will include: Saturday 4:30-6:15 (5 people for 5:00 Mass entry & dismissal); Sunday 6:45-8:45 (3 people for entry & dismissal of 7:15 Mass & 5 people for entry of 8:45 Mass); Sunday 9:45-10:30 (5 people for dismissal of 8:45 Mass & entry of 10:30 Mass); Sunday 11:30-12:15 (4 people for dismissal of 10:30 Mass & entry of 12:15 Mass); and Sunday 1:15 (3 people for dismissal of 12:15 Mass). Please contact me at (636)978-0234; (314)422-1691; or john@brenemangomez.com for your commitment.
Thanks for all who have already contributed to this “ministry”!!!

Council Photo Albums Updated

A host of photo albums from events over the past year or so have been updated and put online.
To see slideshows for various events check out the links below:

2004 No Hunger Holiday
http://pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/smittyk17/slideshow?.dir=/49d0&.src=ph

Tour of A-B Brewery
http://pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/smittyk17/slideshow?.dir=/12ee&.src=ph

2004 State KofC Softball Tourney in Columbia
http://pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/smittyk17/slideshow?.dir=/3092&.src=ph

2003 State KofC Softball Tourney in Columbia
http://pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/smittyk17/slideshow?.dir=/760a&.src=ph

2004 Easter Egg Hunt
http://pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/smittyk17/slideshow?.dir=/a7c4&.src=ph

2004 Festival of the Little Hills
http://pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/smittyk17/slideshow?.dir=/7cb0&.src=ph

Council Trivia Knight 2004
http://pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/smittyk17/slideshow?.dir=/ff63&.src=ph

4th Degree from 2002 or 2003 (not sure what year it was)
http://pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/smittyk17/slideshow?.dir=/b384&.src=ph

Tentative Dates Set for Family Camp Outing

Spring will soon be upon us!
The time will soon be right for our annual Family camp out. Plans are in progress for this year’s event. Tentatively, we are looking at the weekend of June 3rd, 4th, and 5th, but this could change due to more pressing needs by our council. However, plan on making time for this special event, whenever we have it scheduled. You won’t regret it!

Easter Egg Hunt Date Set

The dates for our annual Easter carnival/ egg hunt is March 26th.
Please mark you calendars as everyone's help will be needed.
Last years function was a tremendous success and I hope this years will be the same. With your help, we cannot fail! Keep the date open and even if you find you can not assist, try and bring your young ones to this wonderful event.
Sincerely,
Glenn Korando
Your Family Events Director

A Volunteer's Prayer

This prayer was said recently at a council meeting and is worth posting here, it is a good reminder of what it means to be a Knight and the work that we do.

"I thank Thee, Lord as a volunteer
For the chance to serve another year.
And to give of myself in some small way,
To those not blessed as I each day.
My thanks for health and mind and soul,
To aid me ever toward my goal.
For eyes to see the good in all,
A hand to extend before a fall.
For legs to go where the need is great,
Learning to love—forgetting to hate.
For ears to hear and heart to care,
When someone's cross is hard to bear.
A smile to show my affection true,
With energy aplenty—the task to do.

And all I ask, dear Lord, if I may,
Is to serve you better day by day."

2005 Membership Dues

Your 2005 Membership dues are now payable, dues must be paid by January 31, 2005 to remain a member in good standingof the Harvester Council of the Knights of Columbus.
Bring your dues payment of $30.00 to our meeting on the 17th or mail your payment to--
Gene Stark
14Shadowcreek Dr.
St. Peters, MO. 63376
Remember to include your completed survey form with your payment.Thanks, Gene

No Hunger Holiday Pictures

Check out the photo album from No Hunger Holiday.
Picutres from 2004 can be viewed here:
http://pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/smittyk17/slideshow?.dir=/49d0&.src=ph

Pictures of the 2003 event can be found here:
http://pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/smittyk17/slideshow?.dir=/691e&.src=ph

Insurance Agents Report -- Jan.

Helpful Hints to Save Money
Now that the holiday season is over, tax season is
around the corner. A couple of reminders before you
start working on your taxes. If you have not contributed
to your IRA or a Roth IRA for 2004, it is not to late. You
can contribute up to a maximum of $3000 for 2004,
$3500 if you are 50 or older, and have earned income.
You can contribute up to the maximum until April 15, 2005
and apply it to 2004. Be sure you contribute before
you complete your tax return.

If you already maximized your IRA contributions for
2004, after January 1, 2005 you can contribute to
your IRA for 2005 up to a maximum of $4000. or
$4500 if you are 50 or older. If you have money
sitting in the bank at low interest, consider putting
it into an IRA with the Knights Of Columbus. Not
only is the interest higher than bank accounts or
Certificates Of Deposit (CD's), but rather than paying
income tax on the little interest you earn, a Roth IRA
allows you to draw your money out for retirement and
you do NOT pay any taxes when you withdraw, EVER.

Looking for a safe way to save money for your children's
education? A Roth IRA allows you to draw out your funds
for education with no penalty and your interest is tax
deferred while you are building your nest egg.

Your future starts tomorrow. Contact me today.

Bob Klein F.I.C. / F.I.C.F.
(636) 928-0510 E-MAIL bobkleinkofc@msn.com

Harvester KofC Blog Launched

Welcome to the home of the Harvester Knights of Columbus online blog. . .This site will be the home for breaking news, announcements, date and time changes, thank yous, letters or any other "public" business for the council. This site will host a majority of the items covered in your montly Knightly News mailing but electronically, and having the site online will give us the luxury of being able to update around the clock all month long.
Due to the nature of our monthly minutes and budget thogh, those items will still be posted on the council Web site (www.harvesterkofc.com) in a password protected section. All other items will be posted here and if you have something to post feel free to e-mail Kevin Smith with the item and he will usually post it within 24-48 hours of getting it. You can e-mail Kevin at smittyk@charter.net with your info.