COUNCIL 6201 HISTORY

 

 

February 28th, 1970: Council Charter issued by New Haven. There are 64 Charter Members. The Council meets in the cafeteria of St. Veronica’s Church. Charter Grand Knight is William Boyd. Meetings are held on the 1^st & 3^rd Tuesday of the month. First installation of officers is held at St. Veronica’s & conducted by District Deputy McHugh.

 

1971:  Membership in the Council has increased to 101. In February, meetings moved to the Howell First Aid Squad building & Council holds 1^st spelling bee. Charity Committee established. 1^st Carnival takes place in June. Lawrence Bucholz is elected Grand Knight & the inaugural Past Grand Knights dinner is held in October. The 1^st Toy Bingo is run in November.

 

1972:  Membership totals 139. Ladies Auxiliary is established & meets at Mutual Aid. Della Dettling is elected its 1^st President. Council meetings are moved to Southard Fire House. Charity Committee recommends, & members approve former Associate Pastor of St. Veronica’s, who was engaged in missionary work in Zambia, Africa. April minutes first mention property where Council home eventually was located on Bartley Road in Jackson. Building Committee established to solicit members for loan pledges. Columbian Club by-laws are read & accepted in August. Club meetings begin in September on the 2^nd Tuesday of each month. Ed Miller is elected 1^st Columbian Club President. Tom Ryan is Grand Knight.

 

1973:  Council membership totals 167. Jackson Township Committee approves Club license. Closing on Council home & property takes place in March. First meetings are held at the new Council home in April. Bill Bogdan is elected Grand Knight while Ed Miller repeats as Columbian Club President. Michele Brady is elected Ladies Auxiliary President & will serve for two years. In December, Council votes to establish a Columbian Squires Circle.

 

1974:  Membership totals 175. Official Council home dedication held in March. Council votes to establish Squirettes of Mary. Bill Smith begins first of three consecutive years as Columbian Club President & Jack McGuire, Jr. elected Grand Knight. 1^st Annual Picnic held in August. Council sponsors Cub Scout Pack 103.

 

1975:  Membership continues to grow… now at 280. 1^st statewide Tootsie Roll Campaign for Retarded Citizens is held in April. Softball team wins league championship. Bob Morris elected Grand Knight & Helen Swinyard is the Ladies Auxiliary President.

 

1976:  Membership totals 333. Council wins trophies for float in Howell Bicentennial parade & for the Marching unit in the Jackson Parade. Softball team again wins league, & is crowned State Champions after defeating North Jersey. Grand Knight is Lou Sepe. Eleanor Smith is elected Ladies Auxiliary President.

 

1977:  400 members now belong to the Council. In July, Council officers participate in instituting a new Council at St. Anthony Claret, Lakewood. Jack Nolan succeeds Bill Smith as Columbian Club President, & will hold office for 3 years. John Swinyard is elected as Grand Knight. Pauline DuFour is elected Ladies Auxiliary President & will serve for two years.

 

1978:  Council membership totals 430. John Kern is Grand Knight. Over 300 people attend annual picnic & 150 plus enjoy St. Patrick’s Dance held at Council home.

 

1979:  Membership is now 442. Pop Warner donates Block & Gravel to Council in appreciation of generosity to the league. $2,042 is collected in Tootsie Roll Drive. Barry Murphy is elected Grand Knight. Alice Murphy is the new Ladies Auxiliary President. Father Brendan Williams is council Chaplain. $1,225 is realized from Toy Bingo & 80 children attend Christmas Party at Council.

 

1980:  Membership at then all-time high of 449. As voted by the membership, Council & Columbian Club meetings are switched from Tuesday to Friday nights. 1^st bus trip to Atlantic City is held...children’s swing & slide are purchased with the profits. Telephone tree is formed. Barry Murphy becomes first two-term Grand Knight. Bill Baettcher succeeds Jack Nolan as Columbian Club President. Andrea Furlong is elected Ladies Auxiliary President.  Council attempts to earn additional funds for charity by running midnight bingo at St. Veronica’s. Christmas food baskets are distributed to 38 families.

 

1981:  Council membership at 440. Annual Dance is held at Southard Fire House in Howell. Tootsie Roll Drive proceeds are donated to Early Intervention & Jackson mentally retarded. 76 individuals attend Communion breakfast at St. Veronica. Due to efforts of Pat Daly, Columbian Club receives tax exempt status from Jackson Township. Columbian Club distributes food baskets for Easter & three other holidays. Tom Furlong elected Grand Knight. Tom Halligan is Club President & Ginna Skrzenski is the Ladies Auxiliary President. “Booster Club” monthly drawings begun by Paul Halligan. Father Morello is Chaplain. Toy Bingo nets $1,734 & 253 people attended. State convention is held in Cherry Hill.

 

1982:  431 Brothers are on the Council roster. New degrees take effect for all Knights of Columbus Councils. 140 attend 13^th Annual Dance at Southard Fire House...100^th Anniversary of Knights of Columbus is the theme. Monthly birthday parties for Brother Knights are held at the Council. We sponsor an amateur boxing night at Jackson High School. Father Duggan visits the Council... a reception is held in his honor. Charlie Peters & Barry Kakos are elected Grand Knight & Columbian Club President, respectively. Council runs clam booth at Jackson Day. 48 Christmas baskets are distributed.  State convention held in Wildwood.

 

1983:  Council membership is at 365. Council 1^st Degree Team is assembled & certified. Annual Dance is held at St. Aloysius Parish Center. Major renovations are made in Council. Meeting room & Grand Knight’s room are refurbished… Key-lock door system is installed at Council home. Council hosts state softball tournament… our team is resurrected & is “nipped” by much younger, quicker & thinner team from North Jersey. Joe Dufour is elected Grand Knight & Jim Gormley is Columbian Club President. Cathy Flannery is elected as Ladies Auxiliary President & will serve for two years. 282 attend annual picnic.  Communion Breakfast held at St. Veronica’s.

 

1984:  Membership now totals 387. Council hosts state bowling tournament at Howell Lanes & dinner served at Council home. Annual Dance held at St. Aloysius. Pat O’Connor Family is recognized as NJ Family of the Month & Barry Murphy is named District Deputy of the Year in New Jersey. Discussions begin on possible sale of a portion of the Columbian Club property. Ron Glovin is elected Grand Knight. John Gulick & Bill Adams handle Columbian Club President responsibilities. Tootsie Roll Drive covers 4 stores & nets $2,068 profit. 144 attend Toy Bingo… profit $756 & 40 food baskets are distributed for Christmas. 

 

1985:  384 Brothers are presently on the Council roster. Bishop Reiss visits Council home & attends Chapter meeting. Septic system back up results in minor disaster on the evening of the Bishop’s visit.  Bus trip to Yankee Stadium for Old Timers Day. 1^st Annual Charity Golf Tournament nets $1,300 for Deborah Hospital. NFL football pools net almost $9,000 - for the Council & Club. Saturday Nite at the Movies becomes a weekly event at the club. Father Williams & Msgr. Morello act as Co-Chaplains of the Council. Gene Senerchia is elected Grand Knight & Bill Baettcher begins the first of two years as Columbian Club President. Eileen McCormack is the new Ladies Auxiliary President. Toy Bingo profits are $1,432.

 

1986:  There are now 332 members in the Council. Building fund balance passes $4,000. Major renovations are made to inside & outside of Council home. 2^nd Charity Golf Tournament benefits the American Cancer Society, & nets over $4,000. Annual Dance & Picnic resume after one-year absence. New council banner is purchased for $225. A record $2,800 is realized from the Tootsie Roll Drive. George Boberg is elected Grand Knight & Dorothy Boberg is elected Ladies Auxiliary President. Ladies Auxiliary donates $1,000 to Council & Columbian Club for beautification & landscaping of Council grounds. Two children adopted via proceeds from monthly Knights of Columbus jacket raffle. 70 people attend PGK & PCCP’s dinner. Council sponsors CPR training program. Thanksgiving (24) & Christmas (29) food baskets are distributed to needy families in Jackson & Howell. Almost 50 children attend Christmas Party.

 

1987:  Membership totals 323. $3,500 from Annual Dance proceeds is donated to the “Make-A-Wish” Foundation. Lonnie Cromwell is elected Grand Knight & Jim Quinn is the Columbian Club President. Sharon Glovin serves as Ladies Auxiliary President. Prior to the annual picnic, statue of the Blessed Virgin is dedicated outside the Council home, following Mass at the Council on the Feast of the Assumption. K of C sign outside Council is lit at night for the first time in 14 years. 3^rd Golf Tournament enables donations of $3,300 each to Deborah Hospital & the American Heart Association. 1^st Council sponsored Volksmarch attracts 107 walkers. Ladies Auxiliary earns $625 from raffle. 20 Thanksgiving & 40 Christmas food baskets are distributed. 10-week club is resurrected. Building fund closes the year at $5,269.

 

1988:  Council membership totals 329 brothers. New furnace (costing $5,000) is installed in Council home. Over 30 new members complete applications at major membership drive at St. Aloysius & St. Veronica’s. Handicap parking signs installed outside Council, replacing “preferred parking” locations for Grand Knight & Columbian Club President. 10-week club returns $1,000 to Council, while 135 attend St. Patrick’s Day Dance, netting $342 profit. Jim (Worthy) Patrinick is elected Grand Knight & Jim Quinn accepts 2nd term as Club President. Alice Heiman begins a two-year term as Ladies Auxiliary President. 80 people attend Annual Dance. 4^th Golf Tournament raises $6,100 for Deborah. Record $4,372.60 is collected via Tootsie Roll Drive, Council 6201 tops 836 in golf contest, which resumed after 5 year hiatus. 2^nd Volksmarch draws 176 walkers. Night at the Races raises $566. New Years’ Eve Dance sells out, over 100 attend. Free throw contest draws 29 participants. Council earns Star Council award for “87/88” Columbian year, & receives Recruitment Flag for 5% increase in membership.

 

1989:  Membership stands at 362. Initial meeting of newly formed Federation of Councils is held at our Council. Jackson Township Planning Board approves request for property sub-division, which will enable potential sale of 2 one-acre lots at the north end of club grounds. Septic tank is “filled to the brim” on the evening of St. Patrick’s Dance at Council… & on several other occasions during the year. Tootsie Roll Drive expanded to 5 stores… allows 6201 to donate a record $4,000 for the retarded in Monmouth & Ocean counties. Annual Dance is held on April Fool’s night at St. Aloysius Parish Center. Softball team is eliminated in State Tournament by team who eventually places 2^nd nationally. $5,600 is donated to the American Cancer Society via the 5^th Annual Charity Golf Tournament. Almost 300 attend Annual picnic in July – over $700 profit is reported. Over 50 attend Mass for Deceased Brothers, celebrated by Fr. Williams at Council home. Chuck Heiman is elected Grand Knight while Buddy Hedderman is Columbian Club President. 1^st Annual Horseshoe Tournament is suspended due to “frozen pits”. 1^st ever Baseball Card show is sponsored by & held at our Council. Over 120 attend New Year’s Eve Dance at Council.

 

1990:  384 Brothers are presently on Council Roster. 20^th Annual Dance is held in February at Lakehurst Naval Engineering Center. Four Brothers march in St. Patrick’s parade in Seaside while 127 attend Paddy’s Day Dance at Council. Over 10 “unbelievable” acts appear in the return of the Gong Show, sponsored by the Ladies Auxiliary. Council 6201 is #1 in statewide recruiting drive, with 55 new members. $5,076 is collected in Tootsie Roll Drive for the retarded, while 6^th Charity Golf Tournament results in $7,000 being donated to Deborah & AHA. 66 Brothers show up for election of Council Officers. George Noble is the new Grand Knight & Jim Hack is elected Columbian Club President. Kathy Littlefield is elected Ladies Auxiliary President & will serve for two years. 1^st annual Seafood Night is held & 138 meals are served. POW-MIA flag is raised over Council home in ceremonies at Annual Picnic. Horseshoe League finally ends. BJK is the champ in the playoffs. Resolutions are made to approve eventual sale of 2.0 acres of Club property, to raise annual dues from $30 to $40 & revise by-laws… all are passed. 186 attend Toy Bingo, netting $1,556 & enabling Council to distribute 43 Christmas Food Baskets.

 

1991:  Membership now at 415. NJ License plates with K of C logo are being issued. 21^st Annual Dance returns to the Council home. Building fund balance is $14,412. Council adopts a Chaplain in Persian Gulf War & a Pink Dogwood is planted in recognition of these who served in Operation Desert Storm. 1^st ever fatality occurs at Council as guest has a heart attack…. Autopsy supposedly listed “waiting for a drink from Quinn” as cause of death. Tootsie Roll Drive expands to 7 stores & new record $5,506 is collected. Parking lot is “resurfaced” but white lines are not completed since no one can find paint that adheres to mud. Jim Littlefield is elected Grand Knight & Barry Kakos is Columbian Club President for the 2^nd time. Monthly dinner nights are started, as is “Iron Knight” competition. 7^th Annual Golf Tournament raises $3,000 for Make-A-Wish & $3,500 for Deborah. State Officers Bernie McGlone & Bill Birtwistle are presented checks at our Annual Picnic. Council 1^st Degree Team is resurrected. Knightline is sent to Howell via “First Class” mail. Dave Dimech Family is NJ State Family of the Month. Over $1,500 is raised at Toy Bingo & 47 food baskets with gifts are distributed for Christmas. Council home is hooked into Township sewer & water, depleting $5,000 from Building Fund.

 

1990-1991

Knight of the Year: Barry Kakos

 

1992:  There are now 438 Brothers on the Council roster. “Senator” Bill Bradley declares he is not a candidate for Columbian Club President. The Quincentennial is the theme of the Annual Dance – life-size mural of Columbus decorates Council Hall. Guests have to wash wet ink from dance journal off their hands; & 1^st ever adult Spelling Fee is held at Annual Dance. 129 Essays are submitted for State Contest. Coloring books & crayons are donated to St. Veronica’s Little Church School. Council sponsors Challenger League Team at Holbrook Little League. First (& possibly the last) “Guys Day Out” is held. K of C & American Legion shares proceeds from 10-week club. Mother’s Day Breakfast is held at Council… Father’s Day Breakfast is not. Tootsie Roll Drive collects of $7,200. Glass Washer & Ice Machine set Club back $2,500. Woodchips are donated to needy neighbors & front of Council home is professionally landscaped. Sealed bids are accepted for two 1-acre lots… $32,500 per lot is accepted. Dunking Booth donated to Council by Jackson Jaycees. Air Conditioner/Heater is installed in Grand Knight’s Room. Barry Kakos is elected Grand Knight & Jim Quinn is “railroaded” in as Columbian Club President. Quinn lies on tracks for 6 weeks & Pat Lynch is handed President’s gavel 30 seconds after Quinn’s resignation letter is read at September Meeting. Ann Waters becomes Ladies Auxiliary President. Council 1^st Degree Team conducts installation degrees at newly formed New Egypt & Fort Dix Councils. New Council robes are purchased ($900) & old robes are donated to New Egypt. Bishop Kmiec is honored at 3^rd Degree & visits Council home with State Deputy & 3 State Officers. Proceeds from Dunking Booth at Jackson Day, Super 50-50 & Softball Game are donated to the Council sponsored John Michael Fund... $9,500 is raised. Annual picnic is held in “scattered showers”… extra tent is rented for the occasion. 1^st Prize in Picnic Raffle is “Wheelbarrow of Picnic Paraphernalia, replacing “Booze”. Columbus Quincentennial billboards donated to St. Veronica’s & Jackson schools. Ladies Auxiliary sponsors Bus Trip to Atlantic City. 1^st “International Night” is held, along with 1^st Karaoke Night. New bar stools & message boards are purchased by the Club, along with Microwave. 108 attend New Year’s Eve Party.

 

1991-1992

Knight of the Year: Steve Anderson   Family of the Year: Dave Dimech Family

 

1993:  487 Brothers on the Council roster. Council sponsors 1^st “March for Life” Bus Trip to Washington, D.C. … 40 are on the Bus. Super Bowl pools are "emptied" by the Jackson PD. Bishop Saltarelli (new State Chaplain) visits Council for 3^rd Degree. "Endless Love" is the theme for the 23^rd Annual Dance. Council 6201 is the highest seller in the State with the 1^st statewide 50-50. "Green" snow causes cancellation of St. Patrick's Dance. Brothers have 3 different Insurance Agents – all of them in the Columbian year. Gong Show returns to the Council after 10-year absence… Sonny & Cher (Kathy Litttlefield) beat out Tina Turner (P O'C) & the Christian Soldier (SJA). Members in "arrears" are not entitled to drink at Club under any circumstances, according to vote of membership – Financial Secretary Peters is bombarded with dues payments. Parking lot is paved & lined, this time with asphalt & yellow paint. Good Friday Fish Fry draws over 100 to Council home (a "surprise freebie"). State Secretary Bernie McGlone honored at 3^rd Degree. Council Home closes for week to make necessary repairs as "suggested" by Jackson PD. Another record collected in Tootsie Roll Drive. Charity Golf Tournament distributes $7,500 to Make-A-Wish Foundation & Deborah. 1^st Chapter Softball League is formed. 6201 is eventual winner in playoff announced with 72 hours notice. 1^st Family Bar-B-Que is held, replacing "Guys Day Out" (Ladies Auxiliary forced this one!) Council recognized at State Convention for best 1^st Degree Team in Trenton Diocese & for donating more than 33% of NJ K of C funds to Deborah Hospital. 1^st Annual Blood Drive & Father's Day Breakfast are held. Over 60 lobster dinners served & flounder dinners are added to menu at 4^th Annual Seafood Nite. "Senator" Bill Bradley is recognized as 1^st Columbian Club "Man of the Year". Dave Dimech is elected Grand Knight & Pat Lynch is re-elected as Columbian Club President. Jacqui O’Donovan is the new Ladies Auxiliary President. Annual Picnic draws a crowd & numerous State Officers. Carnival returns to 6201 & is billed as the "best 4 day picnic ever held" for the workers – hamburgers, hot dogs, & sausage are sold to "drive-bys" on Bartley Road until "freezer-burn" sets in. Monument for the "Unborn" is dedicated at St. Veronica's with Bishop Reiss as guest speaker & over 800 in attendance. 2^nd Blood Drive held with over 30 signed up. Ladies Auxiliary sponsors "sold out" Murder Mystery Nite (Murder at the KC Convention) with 160 attending. Club becomes a real "Sports Bar" with 4^th TV & Satellite dish. The "Three Musketeers" demolish the "Gay Calabaros" in the 1^st & only touch football contest. Columbian Club President, Vice President & Treasurer are “flagged” by “Three Musketeers” during all-day football binge. 1^st Annual Venison Nite is canceled… Kube searches high & low for "road kill" without success. 62 Christmas Food Baskets are delivered utilizing proceeds from Toy Bingo. Grand Knight is welcomed to sold out New Years Eve with "sparks & flames" as "Black & White" theme is replaced by "Red".

 

1992-1993

Knight of the Year: Patrick Lynch    Family of the Year: Jim Littlefield Family

Columbian Club Man of the Year:  Bill Bradley

 

1994:  Membership totals 497. 1^st Council meeting of the year is "iced out". Theme of the 24^th Annual Dance is "Star-Lights". 35 march in St. Pat’s Parade as party is held immediately afterwards. Knights of Columbus Golf Club (KCGC) begins its inaugural year with 45 members & 10 tournaments & 1 meeting!!! 6201’s 2^nd Degree Team is certified, complimenting the existing 1^st Degree Team. Retarded Citizens Drive nets $6,935… St. Veronica’s CCD for “slower” children is one of the benefactors. 10^th Charity Golf Tournament nets a record $9,000 for Deborah ($6,500) & Happin ($2,500). Bill O’Donovan is elected as youngest Grand Knight & Bob Schauder assumes responsibilities as Columbian Club President. Margaret Stazko is elected Ladies Auxiliary President.  Barry Kakos succeeds Lonnie Cromwell as District Deputy making the 10^th consecutive year the DD is from 6201. 45 Brothers & families attend 1^st “New Member Social”. 1^st bus trip to Trenton Thunder is held. Sale of 2 lots is finally consummated. Building fund balloons to $67,101. 1^st Annual Flea Market is a huge success & results in profit of $608. 6201 Marches in Jackson Day Parade with Color Corps & members spend rest of day enjoying delicious “Koffee ala Kube” while selling Clams & Fries… $368 profit. 2^nd Ladies Auxiliary Murder Mystery is another sellout. “Iron Knight” renamed “Woosie Night” as Council Director changes competition from games of “skill” to games of “frill” in a successful effort to keep BJK from winning. “Lights on for Life” (created by Steve Anderson) is the new Right to Life theme in NJ State Council & $1,172 is collected in Rose for Life sale. The Angelo Massaro Family named Supreme Family of the Month for October. Birthright Baby Shower sponsored by Ladies Auxiliary results in donation of $5,000. 3-ball replaces horse-collar as club fad. Shuffleboard league folds, joining darts, pool & horseshoes as players demand refunds. Pope’s U.S. visit postponed, as is Holy Hour of Prayer at Shea Stadium with the Pontiff & K of C families. Annual Toy Bingo realizes $1,802 & helps fund 55 Christmas Food Baskets. “How to Pray the Rosary” cards & KC Rosaries are given to students in the new St. Aloysius School. KC Coloring Books are presented to students at St. Veronica’s & St. Aloysius in support of the “Keep Christ in Christmas” theme. Memorial plaque for the Unborn is donated to St. Aloysius & mounted in their new school.

 

1993-1994

Knight of the Year:  Angelo Massaro  Family of the Year:  Mike Waters Family

Columbian Club Man of the Year: Steve Stazko

 Ladies Auxiliary Lady of the Year: Kathy Littlefield

 

1995:  Council membership exceeds 500 for the first time ever -- now at 506. Thirty-nine are on the 6201 bus to D.C. for the March for Life. 25^th Annual Dance is attended by “Worthy Bernie” & 4 other current & former State officers (Theme is “Our Silver Jubilee”). PGK Dimech thanks all 506 members (individually) during his talk as DJ falls asleep. 6201 hosts Trenton Diocese Free Throw Competition - 2 of our kids win in the state. Mentioned at the March business meeting were: St. Pat’s Parade, St. Pat’s Party, Annual Dance, Dance Journal, Free Throw Competition, Spelling Bee, Blood Drive, Retarded Citizen’s Drive, Easter Food Baskets, Children’s Easter Egg Hunt, Sumo Wrestling Event, Good Friday Fish Fry, Flea Market, Chapter Softball League, Trip to Devils’ Game, Pig Roast, KC Golf Club, Paintball War, Baltimore Baseball Trip, State Convention & Iron Knight Competition. Is Council #6201 active? Council sponsors altar servers’ trip to Trenton Thunder game. “Bartley-gate” break-in nets nothing - J.T.P.D. does usual fine job but misses hole-in-the-wall. “Tootsie Roll Drive” nets $7,800 for mentally handicapped. Miller Beer hosts Coed Sumo Wrestling. Moskal is first (& last) celebrity bartender. Council joins in celebration of Msgr. Morello’s 50^th & Fr. Williams 20^th anniversaries in the priesthood. 180 served at Good Friday Fish Fry. Squires program is deactivated for the 2^nd time. Council attends final Devils home game prior to successful Stanley Cup March. Steve Anderson & Angelo Massaro are elected G.K. & C.C.P. respectively. Margaret Stazko is re-elected Ladies Auxiliary President. Annual Picnic moves indoors at 6pm as clouds open. Horseshoe tournament ends at midnight (guess who won?). 300 pair of eyeglasses collected for “New Eyes for the Needy”. $8,950 given to Deborah from Charity Golf Tournament. Scavenger hunt is a huge success. “Pasta-bilities” nite makes $385. “Deadbeat” members are dropped en-masse. Members & families attend Papal Masses at Meadowlands & Aqueduct Racetrack. Council profits from $20 per person bus fee to see Holy Father. “Pride In Our Priests” luncheon held at Fort Dix. Resolution to renovate meeting room for $43,000 is defeated at Council meeting as Robert (of Robert’s Rules) turns over in his grave. New Year’s Eve Party is a tremendous success - bar prices were “rolled back a decade.”

 

1994-1995

Knight of the Year:  James Kube   Family of the Year: James Littlefield Family

Columbian Club Man of the Year:  George Roitzsch

Ladies Auxiliary Lady of the Year:  Suellen Arecchi

 

1996:  Council roster now reflects 484 members. Building roof survives the “Blizzard of ‘96”. Right to Life bus heads to D.C. for 4^th consecutive year. 3^rd Annual Super Bowl Extravaganza attended by 70.  26^th annual dance realizes a $64 loss. Council By-laws are revised & approved by Supreme. 18 pints of blood & 11 bone marrow sponsors are received at Blood Drive. 55 kids enjoy Annual Easter Egg Hunt at Council home. Two special bingo’s & a “200 Club” raffle help pay for “Deacmeister” Littlefield’s ordination in May. 6201 has largest contingent in Chapter at State Convention. KC sponsored Flea Market at St. Veronica’s nets $1,400 for local family in need. “Pig Roast” nets a $85 loss. Final installment paid to Holbrook Little League for Challenger League sponsored by 6201. Retarded Citizens’ Drive nets $7,836. GK’s reserved parking sign is “lifted”… replacement is cemented in…old sign eventually is discovered on the roof.  Deborah & Ronald McDonald House receive $8,000 each from Charity Golf Tournament.  Mike Waters is elected Grand Knight & John Coppinger - Columbian Club President. Suellen Arecchi is elected Ladies Auxiliary President. Council sponsors reception at St. Aloysius to welcome Msgr. Ladzinski. $23,500 is donated to various causes at Annual Picnic. $70 profit realized from bus trip to Trenton Thunder…additional monies could have been raised had someone thought to sell the three empty seats on the return trip home. Council makes $767 selling soda at Jackson Day. Deacon Jim appointed “Spiritual Advisor” for Council. Over 60 prospective members sign-up at Church membership drives. Rave reviews for the Ladies Auxiliary’s 3^rd (best ever) “Murder Mystery” – Murder at the KofC Corral. 230 are served at Steak Night. Council 6201 mans Trenton Soup Kitchen on a rainy day in October (500 fed). “Roses for Life” sale nets $955. Deceased members’ Mass is held at St. Aloysius. Tony Arecchi is named “NJ State Council Knight of the Month” for October. $684 profit from Toy Bingo provides Christmas Food Baskets.

 

1995-1996

Knight of the Year: Jack Haney       Family of the Year: Bob Clifford Family

Columbian Club Man of the Year:  Patrick Lynch

Ladies Auxiliary Lady of the Year:  Jacqui O’ Donovan

 

1997:  Membership now stands at an all-time high of 533. Council hosts 1^st, 2^nd, & 3^rd degrees within 16 days in January…Bar stools are used for spectators at the 3^rd Degree. Dwindling attendance results in cancellations of “Right to Life” bus to D.C. with monies funneled to area Right to Life organizations. Resolution to spend up to $2,000 to explore possible sub-division of property is approved. 4^th Super Bowl Extravaganza is a sell-out.  Arecchi & Massaro prepare Italian cuisine for Ladies Night. Coppy is allowed to stir the sauce. “An Evening Under the Stars” is the theme for the 27^th Annual Dance… there is “no charge” for tickets for the 1^st time ever. PCCP Massaro falls short of breaking PGK Dave Dimech’s record for length of speech. 6201 hosts Council, District & Diocesan FT contests. Pat O’Connor & Roger Cooney lead the “Wearin’ of the Green” at successful St. Paddy’s Day Party. Food Drive provides 40 baskets to the needy at Easter. New members welcomed at Sunday brunch. “Eagle Boy” Cliffy presents awards to scouts at April Ceremony. Members help to raise over $7,500 at our Annual Retarded Citizen’s Drive. The Deacmeister’s speaker tour highlights our Social Meetings. “The Bogey Man” becomes new KCGC Director… Immediately “tees off” membership by opening with a scramble. “Moose Man” Chris Hanley hosts hassle-free, cost-free Mother’s Day brunch. By the way – Did someone cancel Father’s Day? State Convention weekend at Royal Hawaiian is highlighted by 12-hour loss of power. Bad Hair day for the ladies… & Tommy Frank. 13^th Annual Golf Tournament is dedicated to Brother Ed Kazsuba. Committee raises $12,500 for Ronald McDonald House, Deborah Hospital & local charities. Sports auction a success with autographed Ranger Hockey stick. 1^st ever Council-sponsored men’s retreat held with Father St. John presiding. Council participates in St. Veronica’s Festival & Catholic Tent Revival. Angelo Massaro is elected Grand Knight & Bill O’Donovan is the Columbian Club President. Suellen Arecchi accepts 2^nd term as Ladies Auxiliary President.  Council Youth Group is formed & elections are held. Katie Montegary is first President, A. J. Arecchi is VP.  Bradley Zipp of New Egypt Council is named DD, ending 6201 13-year reign. “Hustlin” Haney honored for membership – 46 net gain for year – highest of any council in the state. FDD Lonnie Cromwell helps coordinate St. Aloysius effort to bring St. Croix Squires to US. Council “Eases on Down the Road” to Indian Rock as the Annual Picnic hits the road. State Deputy Joe Cummings & his wife attend as $20,000 is donated to various causes. Charlie Peters is honored for 16 years of service as 1^st degree captain. Day highlighted by “Dumb Man Basketball”, as 8 grown men play hoops in 98^o heat. First of 2 joint blood drives, with St. Monica’s, sets a short-lived record of 53 pints. Membership drives nets 35 potential brothers. “Roses for Life” sale raises $900 for pro-life causes. Kids hold 1^st Dance – 120 attend, & they actually make money. Council goes “Alcohol Free” for the night. Council responds to call as we serve at Funeral service for little Eddie Werner.  6201 launches its Internet site. Pastabilities Dinner Night & not an Italian can be found in the kitchen. 1^st ever Flu Shot clinic is held – 30 attend.  Monsoon Paintball is the event of the fall season, but rain cannot dampen the spirit of 38 attendees. Ladies outdo themselves once again in 4^th Annual Murder Mystery Night – The Lethal Luau. Twist of night is there is no victim. Suellen backs out with appendectomy – a poor excuse. During the year, Council suffers loss of 2-time GK Barry Murphy & Former Chaplain, Monsignor Morello. Deceased Members’ Mass held at St. Aloysius… over 50 members & families attend. A democrat leads Thanksgiving & Christmas food drive as baskets donated to 42 & 45 families respectively. Legalized Pull-Tab Lottery debuts at club. A Star is Born at Steak & Karaoke night as “Jumpin’ Wally” Washington entertains the masses. Question is how did Wally ever get the mike from Coppinger? Toy Bingo raises over $500 for Christmas Toys. Sister Valerie begins to ride around on K of C Scooter. Children’s Christmas Party is inundated with tons of kids as Sun ad invites all of Jackson.  Free council Christmas & New Year’s Parties fail to bring out the masses but doesn’t stop the fun. The Building Committee goes on & on & on.

 

1996-1997

Knight of the Year: Jack Haney       Family of the Year: John Coppinger Family

Columbian Club Man of the Year: Tony Arecchi

Ladies Auxiliary Lady of the Year:  Cheriè Coppinger

 

1998: Membership now stands at an all-time high of 548. In lieu of March for Life trip, 6201 donates $850 to Birthright. Vampires smash blood drive record as 2^nd joint drive nets 85 pints. 5^th Super Bowl Extravaganza is again a smash Testa’s “Roadkill” Chili highlights menu. We again host Council, District & Diocesan FT contests. Community Organizations donate $650 toward the purchase of new chairs. No theme is the theme for the 28^th Annual Dance. “$64” in decorations looked pretty good. Monsignor Casey’s “Tips for the Winter” highlights speaker program. New members DeNoville & Makoski cook for St. Patty’s Day – & no one turns green. Public “Suppa” night is big success as Hanley rides to rescue. Record 340 attend Good Friday Fish Fry as Monsignor tells St. Aloysius parishioners to “go to Knights for free meal”. New Members Welcoming Breakfast, Easter Baskets (aid 40 needy families) & Easter Egg Hunt all in one day. 30 “deadbeat” members deleted from rolls. Retarded Citizens Drive raises over $8,600 – new record. Mother’s Day is celebrated with real – not silk – roses. Cue Ball missing in action for 5 weeks. Stazko goes crazy as he loses his 3-ball income. Council moves from Chapter Hotel to Ivanhoe & has sensational time. Tom Frank sleeps against the concrete & does not mess his hair. Chef Tony’s meals are something to behold. Fat Boys recreate Coney Island at council. Contrary to reports, Costa is serving the crab, NOT the crab being served. State’s best Degree teams conduct last of seven degrees during Columbian Year. Public relations blitz works as 6201 gains newfound respect. 14^th Annual Charity Tournament is dedicated to Brother Jim Studley. Record is shattered as nearly $27,000 is raised for Ronald McDonald House, Deborah Hospital & local charities. Sports Auction alone raises over $8,600, as autographed 1973 Knick Championship photo is hot item. Moment to remember… hungry squirrel runs off with Halligan’s sandwich. Youth group highlights year with 3 fundraisers (clothing drive, food drive & bowl-a-thon). Council says goodbye (again & again & again) to Haney family as they head to California. Council makes great strides at St. Aloysius as it spends Father’s day helping to coordinate & cook at Parish Picnic… canceling ladies plans for a surprise Fathers’ Day Breakfast… NOT!! John Coppinger & Steve Stazko are elected Grand Knight & Columbian Club President respectively. Cheriè Coppinger is elected Ladies Auxiliary President. Installation of officers held at St. Aloysius. Worthy Grand Knight begins precedent of “sliding scale” meetings. Annual Picnic returns to Council Home, as does Haney. State Secretary Birtwhistle, Mayor Rickabaugh & local politicians turn out as $33,000 is donated to Ronald McDonald House, Deborah & 6 charities for Mentally Disabled – making total amount donated from funds raised during 1997-98 Columbian Year to $52,000. St. Monica’s wins chapter softball championship as Testa falls asleep coaching third. Ladies hold “shower” for Jackson family devastated by fire. Bus is full for Council trip to Camden Yards. At September Meeting, Council passes resolution to raise membership dues from $40 to $50. 1^st Monthly Communion Breakfast hosted by Ladies. Roses for Life nets $500. Live band performs at Halloween Knight & Joe Makoski is a BIG BABY. Bob Clifford is the Man as he runs in & completes NYC Marathon & earns new nickname – “Forrest Grump”. Charlie Peters resigns as Financial Secretary after 16 years. Angelo Massaro becomes first member of 6201 to serve as GK, CCP & FS – someone get that man’s head examined. A warm turnout for Annual Deceased Members Mass at St. Aloysius. Ladies 5^th Annual Murder Mystery (Case of the Curtain Call Killer) sells out again & is a smash hit. Highlights include GK Coppinger’s song & dance, Det. Tracy Dick (Tony Arecchi), Montegary & Massaro dance, & odds on who would forget the next line. 35 brothers help pack & deliver 60 food baskets for needy at Thanksgiving, & a lot less deliver 62 baskets for Christmas. In addition, Council hosts Thanksgiving dinner for needy & lonely – a great success as volunteers to help have to be turned away! Santanellos order spring-like weather that helps Nativity Lighting draw many new families. Nice turnout for New Year’s Eve Party as prices are rolled back.

 

1997-1998

Knight of the Year: Robert Clifford Family of the Year: Tony Arecchi Family

Columbian Club Man of the Year: Tom Frank

Ladies Auxiliary Lady of the Year: Pattie Lynch

 

1999: Membership roll now stands at 554. Council again hosts – this is getting to be a habit – District & Diocesan FT contests. Youth Group Pre-Super Bowl Pasta night is all the rage. How do these kids keep on turning a profit? 6^th Annual Super Bowl Extravaganza is, once again, a huge success. Council thanks Ladies with pre-Valentine’s Dinner. “Race for Life” is held in memory of Chuck Washington. Nascar groupies help raise $3,000 in Cancer benefit. Theme of 29^th Annual Dance is “Enchanted Evening of Shining Knights”.  Three clergy members are among large crowd to turn out to honor PGK Massaro, PCCP O’Donovan & Suellen Arecchi. June trip to Camden Yards is sold out within 72 hours of announcement – could it be because the Yankees are there? St. Patty’s Day draws large crowd as non-Irishman cooks for 2^nd consecutive year. Resolutions to raise council rent & to begin design stage of new building pass overwhelmingly at March Business meeting. A huge turnout for Annual Fish Fry (council breaks even with some creative accounting by Joe Makoski). Council delivers Easter Baskets to families in need. Knights, Ladies & Youth turn out in droves to help at the Loaves & Fishes Trenton Soup Kitchen. Comedy Night is a sell-out. The annual Retarded Citizens Drive earns $5,200 for area’s mentally challenged. Youth Group & Council – along with other township groups – play charity basketball game versus NFL Players Association. Profit of $1,200 goes to offset cost of Soup Kitchen. Council again stays at Ivanhoe for the State Convention. Cold winds do not dampen spirits of members, wives & 61 kids ranging from age 4 to 18. The Franks handle the food for the weekend & still manage to stay married. Highlights include Testa staying up until 12:03 a.m. & little Paul Massaro playing kickball & scoring through the hospitality house window. Unfortunately, the window was closed at the time. Council moves 15^th Annual Charity Tournament to new Pine Barrens Golf Course in Jackson – the beginning of hopefully a long-term relationship. Tournament is dedicated to Chuck Washington. NFL Players participate by playing in tournament & staying for sports auction. Over $15,000 is raised for Ronald McDonald House, Make-W-Wish & Deborah Hospital. Robert C. Clifford & Tom Frank are elected Grand Knight & Columbian Club President respectively. Donna Clifford becomes Ladies Auxiliary President. Camden Yards trip is not only fun [The Yankees Win! The Yankees Win!], but also profitable ($174.00). Installation of officers returns to St. Veronica. Beautiful [but HOT!] Day for Annual Picnic. Day is relaxing & fun with over 150 attending & we even made a profit (Richard Lehmann for Lifetime Picnic Chairman!). State Officers Bill Kennedy & Bill Birtwhistle along with Mayor Allman & local politicians attend as council donates over $18,000 to charity. Council Brothers, Ladies & children help cook at St. Aloysius School 5^th Birthday Party Picnic. Family Golf Night at Quail Ridge was a fun-filled evening as family members played pitch & putt, miniature golf & went to the driving range. Investigation into Club finances begins. State leadership Workshop held at 6201. Texas Tony celebrates Rib night. Roses for Life grosses over $600 for Birthright efforts. October Golf Scramble raises over $1,800 for holiday food baskets for the needy. 2^nd Comedy Night is packed to the rafters & the club raised over $1,000 for its coffers. The Council – aided by St. Aloysius food drive - donates 35 Thanksgiving & 45 Christmas food baskets to the needy of our area. Council continues its tradition of holding it’s annual Nativity Lighting, Children’s Christmas Party & Ocean County Day Care Christmas Party. Building Committee keeps chugging along.

 

1998-1999

Knight of the Year: Chuck Murphy   Family of the Year: Patrick Lynch Family

Columbian Club Man of the Year: Sid Weinman

Ladies Auxiliary Lady of the Year: Donna Clifford

 

2000: Membership roll now stands at 548. Lack of support causes Youth Group to disband. Council again hosts District & Diocesan Free Throw contests. Ladies Auxiliary’s 6^th Murder Mystery is again a tremendous success. Crowds flock to see the musical (?) “Murder at the Malt Shop”. The 7^th Annual Super Bowl Extravaganza draws record crowd & has bar ring of nearly $1,200.00. The “Italian Connection” has enough food to feed half of Jackson. Council thanks Ladies with pre-Valentine’s Dinner. 2^nd Annual “Race for Life” is held & $2,900 is raised. 30^th Annual Dance is held at council home in honor of PGK Coppinger, PCCP Stazko & PLP Cheriè Coppinger. Three Council teams play in State Bowling tournament. O’Connor & Kakos host St. Patrick’s Day Dance, but what’s up with O’Makoski cooking?  Poor planning by KCGC Director as 1^st Tournament of the season is snowed out.  Council provides Easter food baskets to 40 area families. 1^st Palm Sunday Flower Sale, in conjunction with St. Aloysius, is a huge success – raising $2,100 for church & council. Once again, Council runs free Good Friday Fish Fry for community. The Council family turns out to feed over 500 homeless people at Trenton Loaves & Fishes Soup Kitchen. Question of the day: How do you know when “Potatoes ala Kube” are done? When they stick to the wall (& ceiling & counter…). Camden Yards sign-up sells out all but 1 ticket – six months before game is played. Retarded Citizens’ Drive covers 2 weekends & raises $5,900. Ladies become store captains as member help dwindles. In effort to help finance new building, membership approves sale of up to 6 acres of land to township. Council returns to Ivanhoe for State Convention for 3^rd straight year – a rainy one. “Massaro Catering” meals are fit for kings (& queens). Highlights abound, including “Million Mile” Murphy making the round trip back to Jackson to check his e-mail; Cote going in & out of the closet; “Mother Superior” checking out Deikmeister’s “doorknob”; & “Crazy Joe” Makoski entertaining late night crowd with “dead-on” imitation of Stazko. 16^th Annual Charity Golf Tournament, dedicated to deceased members of the council, moves to weekday for first time & God blesses us with beautiful weather. Committee looks great in staff shirts & golfers have wonderful time. All in all, over $13,000 is raised for Deborah, Ronald McDonald House & Ocean Day Training Center. Final 1^st degree of Columbian year brings in additional 12 new brothers. Most trying year in 6201 history comes to end. Outgoing GK Bob Clifford shows class right to the end. Italians take control as Tony Arecchi and Jim Kube are elected Grand Knight & Columbian Club President respectively. Maura Testa takes the reigns as Ladies Auxiliary President. Installation of officers is held at Council home. PGK David Dimech of 6201 is appointed District Deputy. Seafood Night returns to 6201 after long absence. Old & New members join Chairmen Kakos, Moskal & Kube to help make night a success. Monsignor Ladzinski is transferred from St. Aloysius. His replacement, Father Scott Shaffer welcomes Knights with open arms. PNC Arts Center fundraiser raises $1,730 for Food Basket efforts as 19 Brothers & Ladies “rock” to Kid Rock. Picture perfect day for Annual Picnic. Over 150 enjoy food prepared by Highland Drive Mafia – including Sausage & Peppers a la Dorsey – & music by Contraband. Local politicians attend as council donates over $18,000 to charity. The next day brothers dash down to St. Aloysius to provided BBQ for Youth after 5:00pm Mass. Council also provide pre-confirmation breakfast at St. Aloysius. Council joins community of Jackson to construct Project playground. Full bus watches Yankees close out another championship season at Camden Yards. Roses for Life raises over $1,000 for Right to Life projects. 31^st Annual dance is held 5 months early – with Christopher Columbus theme. PGK Clifford, PCCP Frank & PLP Donna Clifford are honored. Subway Series is the hot ticket at the council as Yankees Three-peat. Go Yankees!  October Charity Scramble raises $1,100 for holiday food basket program. Comedy Night is again a success. Fr. Scott Shaffer speaks at council social meeting – then stays at club & beats all-comers in 8-ball. The Council – aided by St. Aloysius food drive & the DeStefano Family in Jackson – donates 35 Thanksgiving & 35 Christmas food baskets to the needy of our area. Council holds it’s annual Nativity Lighting, Children’s Christmas Party & Ocean County Day Care Christmas Party. Council holds First Poinsettia Sale at St. Aloyisus & St. Veronica’s.  The Building committee continues to move along.

 

1999-2000

Knight of the Year: Angelo Massaro   Family of the Year: Richard Lehmann Family

Columbian Club Man of the Year: Christopher Lehmann

Ladies Auxiliary Lady of the Year: Margaret Stazko

 

2001: Membership roll now stands at 561. Three degrees held in three weeks. Ladies 7^th Annual Murder Mystery (Meatballs, Mobsters & Murder) is a SMASH HIT! 2 shows, over 220 people attend. Highlights include songs, Richard Lehmann’s Italian accent & Jacqui’s laugh. Super Bowl Extravaganza VIII was, once again, fantastic! The only down side was the final score. The Annual Valentine’s Dinner for the ladies was well attended. The food – provided by the Garlic Boys – was exceptional. The Council & District Free Throw Contests turnout was lighter than normal. 3^rd Annual Race for Life raised over $5,000 for a family in Jackson. St. Patty’s Dinner Dance was again a success as Coppinger was the happiest Irishman of all… after all, he had a microphone in his hand. 1^st ever Cigar Night was tremendous – attended by over 40 people. KCGC opened another year at Ocean Acres – the cold, damp & windy day didn’t dampen the spirits of the 32 golfers(?). On a down note, 53 former brothers were suspended for non-payment of dues. Loaves & Fishes Soup Kitchen held – over 450 needy served. Annual Tootsie Roll Drive held during first weekend in May – over $5,300 raised. KCGC event at Miry Run saw a new record set by “Sandbagger” Bob Clifford, when Bob won $97 of the prize money. Once again, the Council returns to Ivanhoe for State Convention in Wildwood in what turned out to be a beautiful weekend. Large showing of our council family were treated to Chef Vic’s cuisine. Highlights included a mysterious gust of wind that would knock the food plate out of people’s hands, and, Claire Testa wondering if she could move to the “Wild Hood”. 17^th Annual Charity Golf Tournament dedicated to Charter member Anthony DiCostanzo is jammed as 132 golfers participate. Rains hold out until golfers are done. Event is a huge success as $16,122 is raised for Ronald McDonald House, Deborah Hospital, Ocean Day Training Center, Robert Ventura Education Fund & local charities. Chuck Murphy & Chris Lehmann are elected Grand Knight & Columbian Club President respectively. Pat Murphy becomes Ladies Auxiliary President. Heavy Rains did not damper the spirits of over 150 attendees to Council‘s Annual Picnic. Hawaiian Luau is the theme & food prepared by Highland Drive Mafia resembles Southern Cajun fare (can you say “The Rebel” Mike White?). Food included Boiled Cajun Shrimp, Barbecued Pig, Brisket & much more – but no Sausage & Peppers! Contraband, once again, provided the Music & Mrs. O’Donovan & Mrs. Clifford provided a dance rendition to *N-Sync’s Bye, Bye, Bye.  Over $20,000 was donated to various Charities. 09/11/01 The Greatest tragedy in U.S. History causes council to pause & reflect. Prayers are given for victims, families & heroes of World Trade Center & Pentagon attacks. Council holds Fall Golf Tournament to benefit local families affected by the tragedy. Tournament raises $2,000 for victims’ families.  At Annual Dinner, PGK Arecchi states that he’s “a changed man”. Is this a good thing?! Council walls can barely hold the crowds for Cigar Knight #2. A great night with great cigars & home of the 2-plate steak dinner!  World Series 2001… STOP THE PRESSES… The Yankees actually lose one. Council provides food baskets for 35 needy families at Thanksgiving & Christmas as annual holiday events begin, albeit a bit subdued this year. Events include Breakfast with Santa, Nativity Lighting, and Christmas Parties. Building committee moves on – with land being sold to township.

 

2000-2001

Knight of the Year: Mike White   Family of the Year: Victor Giglio Family

Columbian Club Man of the Year: Joe Fitzsimmons

Ladies Auxiliary Lady of the Year: Joanne Frank

 

2002: Membership roll now stands at 524. In a seven-day period from January 13^th to January 19^th, council holds Mid-year Planning session, holds 1^st degree with 10 new 6201 brothers, celebrates Fr. Scott’s birthday at Pasta House, has Dart tournament, and holds Business & Club meetings. A relatively small, but raucous crowd was on hand for Super Bowl Extravaganza IX. The Patriotic Super Bowl is won by – who did you expect – the Patriots. Hey Moosie, it’s about time one of your teams won! Council once again provides great meal for Ladies at 6^th Annual Valentine’s Event. 4^th Annual Race for Life is held & $4,000 is raised for area Cancer victims. Massaros cook for 3^rd straight week – with 3^rd different menu. Council suspends 25 delinquent members. Annual St. Patty’s Dinner & Karaoke is crowded with “Irishman” of every nationality. Easter Food baskets provided to over 30 needy area families. Annual Good Friday Fish Fry held for community. Council travels to Loaves & Fishes Soup Kitchen in Trenton on Holy Saturday to feed over 700 needy people.  Mystery is that the Ladies Murder Mystery is cancelled. Retarded Citizens Drive nets $3,300 for handicap organizations. Cigar Knight #3 – this is becoming a semi-annual event – was held to overflowing crowds. Chef Vic provides Hungry Man portions. “Puff Daddy” requests name change.  Note of the evening: Everyone Fr. Scott touched wins a raffle prize. The Council returns to State Convention in Wildwood in another cold & rainy weekend – what else is new! Lighter than usual turnout of our council family had a great time & was treated to a wonderful spread by our own Rebel Mike White. Trivia question of weekend… What Past Columbian Club President spent 8 hours learning & playing Mahjong with Ladies Auxiliary members & led a Barry Manilow sing-a-long? HINT: He’s working on a handicap & betting system. 18^th Annual Charity Golf Tournament is “Hail & Hearty” as over 140 golfers are on their last holes when hail storm hits. But rain & hail do not dampen their spirit as event raises $17,967 for Ronald McDonald House, Deborah Hospital, Ocean Day Training Center & local charities. “Vampire” Barry Kakos runs Blood Drive & gets 42 pints into the bank. Richard Lehmann is elected Grand Knight & Bob Clifford is the Columbian Club President. Joanne Frank becomes the Ladies Auxiliary President.  Council runs Money Wheel & 50/50 at St. Veronica’s Festival, with PGK Billy O chairing event. New GK Richard Lehmann leads contingent of brothers preparing the food at St. Aloysius’ Fair. 16 Officers & brothers host Fr. Tom’s birthday dinner at Christie’s in Howell. Council ends Softball season – has more injuries than wins! Early power outage doesn’t stop council from holding Annual Picnic. Over $20,000 is given to charity. Council Movie Night is held… in the afternoon. Everyone has good time. Regular Baseball Season ends & all is right with the world – Yankees finish first, Mets are last, &, Red Sox… who cares…At PGK Dinner, PCCP Chris Lehmann admits Yankees are “superior” to the Mets. World Series is over and Kakos’ Angels win it all. October Golf Scramble raised over $2,000 for Food Basket program. Cigar Knight #4 was another sell-out. First ever Chess tournament held at council.  Council delivered 36 food baskets for both Thanksgiving & Christmas. Rib Night held with proceeds going to fund Christmas Coloring Book program. Council suspends 19 delinquent members.

 

2001-2002

Knight of the Year: Steve Stazko   Family of the Year: Mike White Family

Columbian Club Man of the Year: Bob Clifford

Ladies Auxiliary Lady of the Year: Maura Testa

 

2003: Membership roll now stands at 506. Large crowd returns for Super Bowl Extravaganza X. Event turned a profit of $550 – before the bar ring!  Who played again??? Oh yea, Tampa Bay wins! Annual Free Throw Tournament held at St. Aloysius. 1^st degree held – 8 new 6201 brothers. Council smothers ladies with a great meal for 7^th Annual Valentine’s Event. Two days later, 5^th Annual Race for Life is held amid snow storm that would drop two feet of snow on Jackson. $2,500 is raised for area Cancer victims.  Blood Drive gets 42 pints into the bank. First Council Mardi Gras is held with proceeds going to Soup Kitchen effort. Unfortunately, there were no proceeds, but everyone had a great time. Mr. & Mrs. Cajun (the Whites) prepare a New Orleans feast. Games are held for beads & prizes. Based on their answers to the Mardi Gras quiz, Angelo Massaro & Margaret Stazko are crowned the King & Queen of the Council Mardi Gras – you don’t want to know the answers. St. Patty’s dinner was a success – but when was the last time an Irishman actually cooked the Corned Beef & Cabbage? Twelve brothers escape to Myrtle Beach for 6 days of golf… and rain. Children’s Easter Egg Hunt is held at council home. Good Friday dinner becomes an ala Carte meal – over 100 attend. In lieu of Easter Basket distribution, Council makes $1,000 donation to the Jackson Women of Today Food Pantry. Loaves & Fishes Soup Kitchen is well attended by brothers and their families – hundreds are served. State Convention in Wildwood is held to smaller than normal crowd. The Cliffords run hospitality house and Mahjong takes over – two tables on Saturday afternoon. 'Circle of Life' discussion highlights Friday night. Retarded Citizens Drive – moved to the end of May – results in $1,600 in proceeds. 19^th Annual Charity Golf Tournament raises $14,800 for Deborah, Ronald McDonald House & newly established Knights in Need Fund. Although there was a smaller crowd, the day was highlighted by great weather, great food & a great time. The event was held in honor of FDD Barry Kakos – the original tournament chairman – who rose to the occasion by winning the Callaway low net. Council helps St. Aloysius to record breaking effort at their Annual Fair. Father’s Day at Monmouth Park attracts more than 200 for a huge family event. Council mans the Money Wheel and 50/50 sales at St. Veronica’s Festival. Jim Santanello is elected Grand Knight & Tom Frank returns as the Columbian Club President. Joanne Frank starts 2^nd year as the Ladies Auxiliary President. On night of the Club elections, a note is made that outgoing President Clifford sets record for having the most officers & chairmen resign. Cigar Knight #5 is packed to the rafters. Annual Picnic is scheduled for Pine Park, but Mother Nature refuses to cooperate as Hurricane Isabel rumbles through. Picnic is moved indoors – back where it belongs…at the council. Fun, Food & Donations highlight the day. Ronald McDonald House announces a room will be named for the council for all its charitable efforts.  Council closes for long awaited construction. Closing Party is one wild time – with people dancing on the bar. Council temporarily moves to Jackson Elks… then to Lakewood Elks. Children’s Christmas Party moved to St. Aloysius. Adult Christmas Party moved to January. Council donates over $1,500 to Jackson Women of Today Food Pantry in lieu of annual food basket drive.

 

2002-2003

Knight of the Year: Bill O’Donovan   Family of the Year: Robert Clifford Family

Columbian Club Man of the Year: Barry Kakos

Ladies Auxiliary Lady of the Year: Pat Keith

 

2004: Membership holds steady at 507. A large contingent of members helped move council property into storage facility. With the Club closed, a number of events moved to member’s homes or cancelled. Among those missed are annual Valentine & Race for Life events. PGK Dinner saved as it is held at Lakewood Elks. Annual Golf trip moves to Scottsdale. Great turnout for annual Council Free Throw. Council donates $1,000 to Jackson Women of Today Food Pantry for Easter. Fantastic showing of brothers, wives & family to feed the hungry at Trenton Soup Kitchen. For the 1^st time in memory, Council 6201 did not attend annual convention in Wildwood. Officers vow to return next year. 20^th Annual Charity Golf Tournament, held in memory of Brother Roger Cooney Jr., raises $22,000 for Deborah, Ronald McDonald House & newly established Knights in Need Fund (bringing total raised for 20 years to over $224,000). Once again, a fantastic time for all, especially Cliffy who has the low gross score. Council donates $1,000 to St. Aloysius chapter of the St. Vincent DePaul Society. Council cooks massive amount of food at St. Aloysius’ Annual Fair. Father’s Day at Monmouth Park attracts some 250 attendees to 2^nd Annual family event. Council mans the Money Wheel & 50/50 at St. Veronica’s Festival. Annual Retarded Citizens’ Drive raises over $3,000. Steve Stazko is elected Grand Knight & Chuck Clayton becomes Columbian Club President. Jamie Lehmann is handed the reigns as the Ladies Auxiliary President. Once again, it rains during our Annual Picnic, which is held at Pine Park in Lakewood. Council donates well over $20,000 to worthy charities. In addition to usual awards, PGK Santanello presents 1^st ever “Co-Rookies of the Year” awards to George Misak & Dave Volz. PLAP Joanne Frank presents Margaret Stazko with a “Thrown Under the Bus Award”. The turnout is good for joint Membership Drive & Roses for Life fundraiser. Council holds its annual Fall Golf Charity Scramble. $1,800 is raised on a cold day. Knight’s Family Brunch held at St. Al’s with an excellent turnout of workers & eaters on Halloween Sunday. Tons of Pancakes & bacon are served. Council holds its annual Deceased Members’ Mass at St. Aloysius to a warm turnout of family & friends. Knights hold Comedy Night in St. Aloysius Cafeteria. Close to 200 attend & enjoy a Pasta Feast & some excellent comedians. Event raises $3,200 with 25% going to St. Al’s Building Fund. Council undertakes review of delinquent members, suspending 48. Jackson Township finally approves permit to build & foundation is poured in November.  Council Christmas Party is held at Lakewood Elks – a fantastic time is had by all – but it’s still not HOME. Old-timers get together for their annual… well… get-together. 

 

2003-2004

Knight of the Year: Christopher Lehmann   Family of the Year: Richard Lehmann Family

Columbian Club Man of the Year: Chuck Clayton

Ladies Auxiliary Lady of the Year: Karyn Treval

Rookies of the Year: Dave Volz & George Misak

 

2005: Membership roll drops to 476 – likely due to the fact that we don’t have a council home. Council holds annual Council Free Throw events. Even without a council home, officers decide to honor Ladies with Annual Valentine’s Day event at the Massaro home after Ladies meeting or, rather, instead of Ladies Meeting. Angelo Massaro & Bob Treval cook meal fit for the Queens. Council donates $1,000 to Jackson Women of Today Food Pantry for Easter. Brothers, wives & families trek to Trenton to feed the hungry at Soup Kitchen.  Council holds annual statewide Tootsie Roll Drive – nets $2,800 for Retarded Citizens’ Organizations. Council skips State convention for 2^nd straight year (some much for vows). Council is honored to have 2 members ordained. Fr. Chuck Griffiths is ordained as priest & Brother John DelGuidice is ordained as a deacon.  21^st Annual Charity Golf Tournament, held in memory of Brother Generoso “Gene” Senerchia, PGK, PFN, raises $23,500 for Deborah, Ronald McDonald House & Knights in Need Fund (bringing total raised for 21 years to over $247,000. Many celebrities attend including Joe Klecko & Gerry Cooney. Surprise of the day is that Richard Lehmann wins Low Callaway Scoring.  Father’s Day at Monmouth Park is again a success as nearly 300 attend. Council again works 50/50 & Money Wheel at St. Veronica’s Annual Festival.  Victor Giglio is elected Grand Knight & Howie Bischoff is the new Columbian Club President. Karyn Treval takes control as the Ladies Auxiliary President. A Historic day… New Council Home opens its doors on July 1^st.  Huge crowd attends to see the facility & the tremendous work done by the building committee. Committee remembers the efforts of all the members that came before them. Council responds & cooks for St. Aloysius Carnival. According to food chairman Richard Lehmann, we set new record for funds raised, & we get written up in local paper as having the best cheese steak of the ‘Shore’. Fr. Scott Shaffer is honored by Jackson Chamber of Commerce as Man of the Year.  Annual picnic is held with the appropriate theme of “Welcome Home” as council returns on an absolutely gorgeous day. Council is packed both inside & out as Fr. Brendan Williams & Fr. Scott Shaffer help dedicate & bless the building & the newly erected Monument to the Unborn – thanks to Jeff Fichera for all his efforts. GK Vic Giglio honors four brothers for their efforts in the building construction – Tony Arecchi, John Coppinger, Richie Jordan & Jim Kube. What about the bean-counters?  Over $17,000 donated to charities from the Charity Golf Tournament & the Tootsie Roll Drive fundraisers. Council participates in Bartley Healthcare Family Fun Day selling Sausage & Peppers to over 400 people. 6201 says “Thanks” to Lakewood Elks for their hospitality during our “construction” period by holding Elks Night at Council. Council donates $1,400 to Hurricane Katrina victims including $1,000 to a Louisiana KofC Council.  Crowd of 44 attend Cigar Knight VI. Club nets close to $1,300.  Ladies Auxiliary participates in Breast Cancer Walk. Golf Scramble to raise funds for food basket program nets $2,600.  Ladies hold a “Tricks or Treats” Halloween Party at council. 102 patrons pack the Club & are treated to a great meal & some unbelievable costumes. The Honeymooners win in close vote over Shrek & Fiona. Marilyn Monroe & Mr. Heineken also take costume honors. Ladies add $1,200 to their coffers. Family breakfasts continue at St. Aloysius.  Annual Deceased Members’ Mass held with a large show of support by officers of the council.  1^st Degree held in November nets council 21 new brothers. Club holds Comedy Night in November & nets over $2,900.  Comedians are great & customers are scraping the pans to taste the variety of pasta selections. Council donates $2,000 to Jackson Women of Today for their Thanksgiving & Christmas Food Pantry efforts. FDD Brad Zipp passes away after long illness. Christmas parties held for kids & adults. Kids (& Adults) get to have Breakfast with Santa. Ladies brighten holidays for children at Ocean Day Training Center.  Low turnout for 1^st New Year’s Eve at new council.

 

2004-2005

Knight of the Year: Pat O’Connor   Family of the Year: Angelo Massaro Family

Columbian Club Man of the Year: Richie Jordan

Ladies Auxiliary Lady of the Year: Diane Massaro

Rookie of the Year: Tom Sheridan

 

2006: 1^st Degree is held at 6201 on January 11^th, with 16 new brothers added to our ranks. It is the 1^st of three degree held at the council over a 2-week period.  Membership roll rises dramatically 542 – a gain of 37 over 2 months. Super Bowl party is held to less than super turnout.  Council supports Ladies Auxiliary with 9^th Valentine’s Event with a Queen’s meal. The 6^th Race for Life returns after a 2-year hiatus & is a rousing success thanks to Chairman Wally Washington & his committee. Council raises $6,000.  Club profits as new member Mike Corrigan hosts Doo-Wap night to an overflowing crowd.  Annual PGK Dinner Dance – is it the 35^th? – is a two-fer as two years worth of officers are feted. PGKs Santanello & Stazko head the list of honored guests. St. Patty’s Dinner returns to a huge crowd. Irish meal is delicious. The 8^th Ladies Auxiliary’s Murder Mystery returns after a much too long 5 years. The medieval mystery, A Knight Wedding, Mourning Funeral, sold out to over 140 customers & did not disappoint. The play & the food are outstanding. Highlights included Mike Cava with his “Brooklyn take” on Friar Tuck & Margaret Stazko’s rendition of the “Bitch is Back”.  Tragedy strikes the council family on Palm Sunday as Brother Mark DeBiase leaves us much too early.  Council comes together for an impromptu rosary service for Mark & his family. In the tradition of Father McGivney to support the widow of a fallen brother, numerous fundraisers are run over the year for the DeBiase Children’s Education fund – including proceeds from the Charity Golf Tournament, Father’s Day, 10-week club & Football Sundays.   The Skinniest Easter Bunny ever arrives to help at the Children’s Easter Egg Hunt.  Good Friday Fish Fry is back at the council as Mark Vincent & his “crew” do a fantastic job. April 15^th is more than ‘Tax Day’ as Council becomes Smoke-Free due to NJ Law… even though it’s a private club. Cries abound from smokers & business begins to suffer.  Council makes its Annual trek to the Trenton Loaves & Fishes Soup Kitchen. Many new brothers help out as we feed in excess of 600. Iron Couples is back – great job by the Stazkos… but Horowitz’s win again! Council supports the NJ State Pride in Priest Dinner at Doolan’s as 6 brothers attend, along with 125 priests. Tootsie Roll Drive suffers as we have only 3 stores. We still raise $2,300 thanks to efforts of PGK Santanello & his team. KCGC opens its season at Ocean Acres. Chairman Stazko breaks his leg… while driving the golf cart – this is not a typo. His foursome continues to finish its round as they drag Steve along. The May 15^th 1^st degree adds 26 more to the roster, which now stands at 572. State Convention held in Wildwood. GK, DGK, & Chancellor get away & stumble upon a future convention site for the council. 22^nd Charity Golf Tournament is held in memory of “Senator” Bill Bradley. Event switches to a Monday morning but still raises $23,500 for charity. Chairman looks lost as he hobbles around on crutches. Fr. Bob leaves St Al’s as he is reassigned. Fr. Jakub joins St. Al’s & 6201. Chris Lehmann once again runs a tremendous Father’s Day @ Monmouth Park. 475 people attend & the event raises $7,000 for the DeBiase Children’s fund. Council runs Money Wheel & 50/50 at St. Veronica’s Festival.  With the opening of the new council home we have a record membership year & receive Star Council Award – way to go Chris.  Robert Treval takes over the reigns as Grand Knight, Tony Arecchi becomes the Club President & Diane Massaro is elected Ladies Auxiliary President. Council once again cooks for St. Aloysius Carnival & again sets new record for funds raised. The council runs two 10-week clubs to purchase defibrillators for the Council. Annual picnic is held on a beautiful September day. The event is well attended as Kube & Massaro take their spatulas from St. Al’s to the Club. Over $25,000 is donated to charities from the Charity Golf Tournament & the Tootsie Roll Drive fundraisers. Ladies run successful Blood Drive for 9-year old cancer victim Courtney Hughes – over 60 pints are raised. Oktoberfest returns as new members Casey Reynolds & Dave Rivera step up.  Ladies make donation to local family who lost home to fire. October begins with a bang as Roses for Life, Columbus Day Breakfast & Membership Drives are all held on the same day. The Ladies begin a banner 2-month stretch with five events in 8 weeks. First they continue their participation in the Breast Cancer Walk in Point Pleasant. The following week they run a Christmas Photo program – with the help of our very own professional, Tom Sheridan (the photos came out GREAT!).  The Golf Scramble raises funds for food basket program nets $2,500. The Ladies then hold their 2^nd Halloween Party at council the council. 70 patrons pack the Club & are treated to a great meal & some unbelievable costumes. The Wizard of Oz contingent took home all the prizes. For the first time, the Annual Deceased Members’ Mass is held in the middle of the week. The turnout is tremendous as the officers support the family members. The ladies hold another major event with the Coney Island Night Fundraiser for Courtney Hughes. Traditional Coney Island fare is served – with the support of Nathan’s, there are boardwalk games & a gift auction as well. 118 people attend & the Ladies raise & donate $5,350 to the Hughes family.  The turnout for Steak & Movie Knight, on the Friday after Thanksgiving, is disappointing, but the steaks are out of this world. Ladies continue their incredible run of events with their annual trip to Ocean Day to brighten the holidays of the residents with a Christmas party, & hosting the Breakfast with Santa at 6201. Adult Party is also held.  Council donates $2,000 to Jackson Women of Today for their Thanksgiving & Christmas Food Pantry efforts.  We donate an additional $2,000 to four other groups (St. Vincent DePaul, St. Veronica’s Vincencians, St. Aloysius – for a local family, & a Baptist Food Pantry). St. Aloysius youth group raise $1,400 with sale of “Keep Christ in Christmas” magnets donated by the council.  Council receives $3,000 from 2 donations – including $2,000 bequeath from estate of Msgr. Joseph Donovan. Refurbishment of GK room looks fantastic. New Year’s Eve Party is held to a quiet crowd – as Smoke-free Law continues to hurt business. Council builds new “storage” shed.

 

2005-2006

Knight of the Year: Tony Arecchi   Family of the Year: Bill O’Donovan Family

Columbian Club Man of the Year: Bill Mitchell

Ladies Auxiliary Lady of the Year: Jeanmarie DeBiase

Rookie of the Year: Vince Ignizio

 

2007: Membership roll stands at 571. Council holds service at St. Aloysius for the Icon of Divine Mercy. Council holds Annual Free Throw at St. Aloysius & since no other councils show up for district championship, our winners move on. The Supreme Council changes all degrees for the 1^st time since 1982. Council holds new 1^st Degree for 6 new brothers. The “3 Goombas” host the return of the Super Bowl Extravaganza (#XI) – to stellar results. Over 80 attendees (not counting kids) enjoy mouth watering fare. Event makes profit of $722 – not counting $1,200 net bar ring – FANTASTIC!  The “2 Goombas” support Ladies with 10^th Valentine’s Event. Councils 6201 & 11529 team up for a joint Valentine’s Dance.  Food & Music are excellent & councils party the night away. The 7^th Annual Race for Life again hosts overflowing NASCAR enthusiasts. Chairman Wally raises $4,500 for local cancer victims.  Annual PGK’s Dinner is held to subdued crowd. PGK Vic Giglio & 6201 are presented with a DOUBLE STAR COUNCIL AWARD for doubling its membership goals during 2005-06 Columbian Year. People turn out on St. Patty’s day as “Irishman” Tony O’Arecchi provides all-day Irish fare at club. Brother Christopher Hanley is ordained a transitional Deacon on his journey to the priesthood. Ladies hold 9^th Murder Mystery, a safari adventure entitled “A Knight’s Tail” to another sold out throng.  The food & the performances were outstanding. Highlights included Jimmy Kube as a bumbling boob, dimwit, etc… & Suellen Arecchi’s “dancing”. Over $2,700 is raised for Ocean Day & local charities. Due to a lack of funds the council did not participate in the Loaves & Fishes Soup kitchen. This wonderful event was initially supported by this council in 1996. Council Fish Fry is actually… a fish fry. Great turnout once again, & tremendous job by Brother Mark Vincent and crew. 1^st Ever(?) Country Western night is lightly attended but host “Tex” Londis makes sure it was a fantastic time for all who did attend.  Brother Richie Jordan donates deck for back of council home. Ladies Auxiliary donates tables & chairs for outside deck. 8 Council officers attend Trenton Diocese Pride in Priests dinner in support of our priests. Tootsie Roll Drive nets over $1,900 for mentally disabled. Iron Couples is won by the Horowitz’s again – this is getting to be a habit! KCGC season opens at Ocean Acres & the chairman manages to complete the event unscathed.  Council misses State Convention for 4^th straight year. 23^rd Charity Golf Tournament is held in memory of Brother Mark DeBiase. Event raises $18,200 for charity on a beautiful sunny day.  The 5^th Annual Father’s Day at Monmouth Park is well attended as council raises $4,800 for various charities. Christopher Lehmann is elected Grand Knight. Jim Kube (again) takes over as Columbian Club President while Margaret Stazko (again) is elected Ladies Auxiliary President. Council again runs Money Wheel & 50/50 at St. Veronica’s Festival. Council cooks for St. Aloysius Carnival with record amount of volunteers. Installation of officers is held with a number of new officers taking on responsibilities. Cigar Knight VII is held outdoors on a beautiful afternoon/evening – unbelievable food by Chef Tony – & we raise some much needed funds for the Club. Annual picnic is held on a pleasant September afternoon with plenty of good food, games & fun. Deborah Hospital, Ronald McDonald House & ARC are honored as nearly $25,000 is donated to charities from the Charity Golf Tournament & the Tootsie Roll Drive fundraisers. Council members cook & attend St Al’s Oktoberfest, & help raise $2,900 for school playground. In 2-week period the Ladies Auxiliary attend Breast Cancer Walk, run Halloween party & host Christmas Family Photo Day. Annual Golf Scramble, put on hold due to torrential rains, is held in November & raises in excess of $2,300 for our returning food basket program. Deceased members mass is held to a lighter than normal turnout… but families of our fallen brothers express their gratitude & appreciation. ATTENTION: The Horowitz’s do not win semi-annual Iron Couples night… of course they didn’t attend. The winners are the Stazkos. Under the direction of PGKs Clifford & Stazko, Council 6201’s food basket program to deliver food to the needy of our area during the holidays is resurrected. There were 21 families to which Christmas food & presents were delivered. A large crowd of brothers & their families came out to help pack & deliver the baskets – as well as make donations to this cause. At the State’s request, 6201 hosts a special 3^rd Degree during the Christmas season. Three priests, including a monsignor who is on the Pope’s legal team advance to full knighthood. The Monsignor tells the gathering how much the Vatican respects the work of the Knights.

 

2006-2007

Knight of the Year: Mark Vincent   Family of the Year: Steve Stazko Family

Columbian Club Man of the Year: Mark DeBiase (in Memoriam)

Ladies Auxiliary Lady of the Year: Margaret Stazko

Rookie of the Year: Casey Reynolds

Award of Courage: John Coppinger

 

2008: Membership roll stands at 582. Ladies Auxiliary holds Blood Drive on the same night as Council holds Bone Marrow registration. Blood Drive nets 40 pints, with 7 deferrals, while bone marrow sign-up gets 26 new names. Local food chain Chick-Fil-A lends a hand with free chicken sandwiches for all attending. 6201 holds Council and District Free Throw contests at St. Veronica’s. Turnout is great for the council tournament, however, no other council attends the districts. Comedy Night returns to a sold-out crowd. Comics and food are terrific. Everyone leaves happy, especially the event chairmen & CCP as event nets over $3,200, plus an additional $1,400 bar ring. Super Bowl Extravaganza XII is a lightly attended event as many stay home to watch the home team GIANTS. Food was plentiful and the Game was great – the GIANTS ARE WORLD CHAMPIONS!!! Event still makes a profit and bar ring is close to $1,000. Council once again provides fantastic meal for Ladies at 11^th Annual Valentine’s Event – as goombas cook for the 3^rd straight week.  8^th Annual Race for Life raises nearly $6,000. Another great job by Chairman Wally Washington & his team. Money donated to Candace Widner, little girl stricken with cancer.    Annual PGK’s Dinner is held to a raucous crowd honoring PGK Bob Treval, PCCP Tony Arecchi, & PLAP Diane Massaro. DGK Tom “The Comic” Sheridan does a great job hosting the event & providing photo journal keepsakes to the honorees. Easter comes early this year causing Easter Egg Hunt & St Pattys meal to he held on the same day. Annual Good Friday Fish Fry is held to a lighter crowd than normal, but guests were well fed & had a great time.  Thanks to efforts of PGK Bob Clifford the Loaves & Fishes Soup Kitchen to feed the Needy returns. Council provides the hot meal & a bagged lunch to over 600 people in need. Father / Daughter Dance – a new event for daughters of all ages is well attended and raises $700 for the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation.  Ladies 10^th Murder Mystery – Knight to Wake the Dead - is held & it is, in a word… FANTASTIC! Another rousing sell-out crowd is on hand. Highlights include song snippets, the cool dude Richard “Herb Garden” & unbelievable food. Eight brothers attend annual Pride in Priests dinner sponsored by Trenton Diocese.  Annual Tootsie Roll Drive nets $2,000 for organizations that help the mentally challenged. Iron Couples Night is held &, once again, the Horowitz’s take home the prize. Outcry ensues to have rules changed to allow members only. The Council skips State Convention, this time for a most important reason – Brother Chris Hanley is ordained Fr. Chris Hanley at St Peter’s Cathedral in Wilmington, Delaware. He then conducts his first mass at Church of St. Peter the Apostle Church in New Castle. Group of about 40 drive down from Jackson to be a part of this joyous day. He is assigned to St Francis de Sales Catholic Church in Salisbury, MD. We will still affectionately call him Father Moosie.  24^th Annual Charity Golf Tournament is held in memory of Brother Brian Sweeney at Pine Barrens Country Club on a beautiful sunny day.  Event raises $18,000 for our charitable efforts. Fr. Chris comes back one week after his ordination to conduct Mass of Thanksgiving at St Aloysius, & celebrate with parish members & his brother knights.  Council takes trip to Shea to see the Mets. The question is… why? A good time is had by all! There is new blood within the leadership of the council as Tom Sheridan is elected Grand Knight, Jim Londis is Columbian Club President, and Jeanmarie DeBiase is Ladies Auxiliary President The 6^th Annual Father’s Day is held at Monmouth Raceway to help raise money to reduce Mortgage. Sellout enables council to raise $1,831.12.  Council suspends 13 members, however, retention chairman does a fine job in chasing down members given number of Knight Alerts (90) & 60-day notices (45).  Council runs Money Wheel & 50/50 at St. Veronica’s Festival. Once again, Council cooks for St. Aloysius Carnival. Excellent turnout to support both parishes. Installation of officers is held with a number of new officers taking on responsibilities. Annual picnic is held on a cool September day as Chairman Mickey Washington prayers for good weather are answered. Deborah Hospital, Ronald McDonald House & ARC are honored as nearly $21,000 is donated to charities from the Charity Golf Tournament & the Tootsie Roll Drive fundraisers. Bar Ring is tremendous ($1,400). 1^st Annual Texas Hold’em is held – 70 players attend. Chairman Mickey Washington – he’s everywhere – oversees this GREAT EVENT. Unbelievable sandwiches are the rave. $900 is raised for Jackson Women of Today, Food Pantry and Benevolent Fund. Two first degrees held in September & October net 31 new members. Charity Golf Scramble is held on beautiful sunny October day & raises nearly $2,000 for food basket program. Annual Deceased Members’ Mass was held to an unusually low turnout. On a chilly night, there was a large turnout for Nativity Lighting. Council was overflowing at 3^rd degree with 45 brothers taking the 3^rd – 41 from our council. The Ladies support Ocean Day with Christmas gifts to the residents. A fun time was had by all at the Adult Christmas party. Council delivers 57 food baskets to the needed of our area, with an overwhelming show of support by brother knights and their families. The Ladies host highly attended Children’s Christmas Party. 

 

2007-2008

Knight of the Year: Fr. Christopher Hanley   Family of the Year: William O’Donovan Family

Columbian Club Man of the Year: Joseph “Wally” Washington

Ladies Auxiliary Lady of the Year: Jamie Lehmann

Rookie of the Year: Kevin Gilmore

Award of Courage: Brian Sweeney (in Memoriam)

 

2009: Membership is at an all-time high of 625. Council is proactive in addressing behavior at the club! Council holds Annual Council and District Free Throw contests. The Sometimes Annual Comedy Night was an overflow event with 165 attendees and names left on the waiting list. The comedians were hysterical and the Boys prepared a great meal for all. The event yielded a profit of $2,500 for the Club along with a $1,600 bar ring. Super Bowl Party was held to a relatively small but raucous crowd. Council holds 12^th Annual Valentine’s event for our ladies. 9^th Annual Race for life is held… over $4,100 dollars is raised. Council makes $10,000 donation to St Aloysius for sponsorship of tabernacle in new Church. PGK Dinner is held honoring PGK Chris Lehman, PCCP Jim Kube and PLP Margaret Stazko. The O’Donovan’s host St. Patty’s day event. Corned Beef and Soda Bread was DELICIOUS!!... On a sad note, Tragedy strikes the council in March as Brother John Gorr unexpectedly passes. The council show tremendous support to the family as over 50 brothers and their family attend the wake service. Annual Fish Fry is highly attended as Mark Vincent and his crew caters to the masses. 2^nd Father/Daughter dance is held at council. The Annual Tootsie Roll Drive is held. Chairman Russ Taylor, his store captains and members of 6201 raise over $4,300 for the cause. The 25^th Annual Charity Golf Tournament is held in Memory of Jim Sheeran Sr.  The event, held at Pine Barrens, sets a new record as we raise $28,650 for our charitable causes – a fantastic job by the committee and all those involved. St. Aloysius Carnival is held early – in May. Council supports food effort and helps set new food sales record. Vince Ignizio is elected Grand Knight, Mickey Washington is now Columbian Club President, and Jeanmarie DeBiase is Ladies Auxiliary President for the 2^nd year in a row. Monmouth Park Father’s Day event – now a Club event – raises over $2,000 to help pay down the mortgage on the building.  Chuck Clayton hosts the 1^st “Eat like the troops day” – all proceeds going to the Armed Forces effort. The council ran a fundraiser for Little Lucy Littlefield, the granddaughter of Deacon Jim and Kathy Littlefield, and daughter of Brother Scott & his wife Kristen. Lucy had been diagnosed with Neuroblastoma (a type of children’s cancer). The even raised over $24,000 and BEST NEWS OF ALL… the prayers of everyone worked as Lucy is now cancer-free. Council runs Money Wheel & 50/50 at St. Veronica’s Festival. Installation of officers is held with a number of new officers taking on responsibilities. Council 6201 receives Charitable Organization of the Year by Jackson Township. Annual picnic is held on a beautiful September day. Deborah Hospital, Ronald McDonald House & ARC are honored as nearly $24,000 is donated to charities from the Charity Golf Tournament & the Tootsie Roll Drive fundraisers. In September the Council suspends 19 members. Trip to see the Mets play was held for 2^nd year in a row…. Again the question is, WHY? 2^nd Annual Texas Hold’em is held – attendance is lower than expected as bad economy may have played a part. Chairmen Mickey Washington and Steve Stazko handle the event. Charity Golf Scramble is held on beautiful sunny October day & raises $2,400 for food basket program. Annual Deceased Members’ Mass was held at the council and celebrated on site by Father Chuck.  On a nice winter evening, there was a large turnout for Nativity Lighting. Council was overflowing at 3^rd degree with 49 brothers taking the 3^rd – 30 from our council. The Ladies continues to support Ocean Day with Christmas gifts to the residents. A fun time was had by all at the Adult Christmas party. Council delivers 79 food baskets to the needed of our area, with an overwhelming show of support by brother knights and their families – especially since over 18 inches of snow would drop during the delivery day. The Ladies host Children’s Christmas Party. 

 

2008-2009

Knight of the Year: Robert Treval   Family of the Year: Robert Treval Family

Columbian Club Man of the Year: Michael Washington

Ladies Auxiliary Lady of the Year: Karyn Treval

Rookie of the Year: John Giurano

Award of Courage: The Littlefield Family

 

2010: Membership now stands at 639. Club continues its success with highly attended football Sundays! Council holds Annual Council and District Free Throw contests. Annual Comedy Night was an overflow event with 149 attendees and names left on the waiting list. The comedians were hysterical and the food was terrific. The event yielded a large profit for the Club plus a $1,300 bar ring. Super Bowl Party was well attended and held to a raucous crowd. 5-Year old Candace Widner passes after long battle with cancer. The council ran numerous events in support of Candace. Ladies and Council mourn the passing of PLP and longtime friend to the Council Dot Boberg. Council holds 13^th Annual Valentine’s event for our ladies – Bob Treval is the host. 10^th Annual Race for life is held – raising over $4,000.  Annual PGK/PCCP/PLP Dinner is held honoring PGK Tom Sheridan, PCCP Jim Londis and PLP Jeanmarie DeBiase. The O’Donovan’s supply the corned Beef, cabbage & Soda Bread for another St. Patty’s day get-together. Mark Vincent & his team provide the sustenance for our annual Good Friday Fish Fry. Annual Easter Egg Hunt is another success. Council again travels to Trenton for Loaves & Fishes, providing food for the needy. Two tables of officers show up in support of our clergy in the Annual Pride in Our Priests dinner. The Annual Tootsie Roll Drive – chaired by Russ Taylor – raises over $3,500 for the mentally challenged. The annual Father / Daughter dance is lightly attended… but a good time is had by all. The council holds its 26th Charity Golf Tournament in memory of Brother John Gorr and raises $16,273 for Deborah Hospital, Ronald McDonald House, Knights in Need Fund, Catholic Charities & local charities. It is a wonderful day for all who attended.  Council elections are held – Grand Knight is Mark Vincent, Joe “Wally” Washington is elected Club President and Christine Sheridan is the new Ladies President. Once again the council shows up strong to support St. Aloysius Carnival cooking carnival fare for 4 nights – and having a great time doing it. Turnout is lighter than usual for the Annual Father’s Day @ Monmouth Park. Funds raised went to help pay down the mortgage. Council runs Money Wheel & 50/50 at St. Veronica’s Festival. Council embarks on its 3^rd (and possibly last) annual trip to the Met Game – crowd is light and most just want to see Citifield – NOT THE METS. 2010-2011 Officer Installation is held after 5pm mass at St. Veronica’s. The Knights of Columbus Motorcycle Ministry – to raise money for Caregivers makes a pit stop at Council where food and beer is provided for the participants. Council holds its first ever Back to School Supplies program, to help needy families with back to school supplies – thanks to the Cliffords for brainstorming this event.  Council holds 9/11 prayer service in memory of all those who perished in attach on our nation. John Giurano and his team put on an Annual Picnic to remember. The weather is beautiful and all who attended had a great day.  6201’s Annual Golf Scramble to provide food baskets during the holidays, raised over $2,500. A contingent of brothers attended Bishop Smith’s Dinner at Doolan’s. Due to a lack of participation the Casino Night Tournament had to be cancelled. The Deceased Members Mass was held at the council for the 2^nd year in a row. It was good to see the turnout in memory of our deceased brothers. 2^nd Annual Lager Knight was held and raised $1,400 for our food basket program – we also had a $1,100 bar ring. In Addition, the dance of that wonderful couple Poinzie and Joe D’Angelo was a sight to see.  50 Thanksgiving Food Baskets were provided to St. Aloysius for distribution to the needy. Iron Couples Night was held to a raucous crowd – what else is new. Everyone had a great time. Nativity Lighting held at council hold with Joe D’Angelo providing an impromptu Christmas solo. Wally’s Single Shift Bar Ring was smashed with a $1,279 ring for the Chili Cook-off. The Ladies once again provided a great Christmas memory for the Ocean Day Training Center. The Council delivered 60 Food & Gift baskets to the needed of our area for Christmas; the Ladies hosted the children’s Brunch with Santa; and the Old-Timers got together – ALL ON THE SAME DAY. 

 

2009-2010

Knight of the Year: Larry Marzorati   Family of the Year: Robert Clifford Family

Columbian Club Man of the Year: Jim Murphy

Ladies Auxiliary Lady of the Year: Christine Sheridan

Rookie of the Year: Guy Trause

 

2011: Membership now stands at 637. Council holds Annual Council and District Free Throw contests. Annual Comedy Night was a somewhat lighter event with 80 attendees. The comedians were a little less than hysterical but the food was terrific. The event yielded a profit for the Club plus a $1,200 bar ring. Super Bowl Party was well attended. Council holds 14^th Annual Valentine’s event for our ladies – Tom Sheridan and Bob Treval are the hosts. The 11^th Annual Race for life is held. Council raises over $3,000 for area cancer victims.  Annual past Grand Knight’s Dinner is held to honor council, Club and Ladies leaders. O’Donovan’s host yet another St. Patty’s day at the club. Council officers attend the annual State’s Pride in Priests dinner in Spring Lake. Good Friday Fish Fry turns away people at the door. Council travels to Trenton to feed hundreds of needy people at the Loaves and Fishes Soup Kitchen. Annual Tootsie Roll Drive raises over $4,500 for people with intellectual disabilities. Our 27^th Annual Charity Golf Tournament is held on a beautiful May day in memory of Brother Jim Quinn Sr. and raises $10,250 for Deborah, Ronald McDonald, Council 6201’s Knights in Need Fund, Wounded Warrior Fund, Catholic Charities and local charitable endeavors. Scores of brothers and their families cook a ton of food at St. Aloysius’ annual Carnival.  Annual Council elections are held – the new Grand Knight is Chuck Clayton, while Joe “Wally” Washington and Christine Sheridan begin second terms as Club President & Ladies President. Council pavilion is constructed and Steak and Brew is held to help raise some of the funds for the construction project. Event is held under the new pavilion. In 5-week period council hold 1^st, 2^nd, and 3^rd degrees. The third degree is the first one held under the new format. Most of the members in attendance found it “interesting”. 9/11 prayer service is held on the 10^th anniversary of the tragedy. Council holds its Annual Picnic and donates over $15,000 to worthy charities from the proceeds of the Golf Tournament and Tootsie Roll Drive. Ladies hold their “Somewhat Annual” Murder Mystery “Murder at the Speakeasy”.  The event was, once again, a sellout. Highlights included the “Singing & Dancing” of Ladies President Christine Sheridan, Margaret Stazko’s rendition of “I am Woman”, Kevin Montegary’s stuttering Doc Brown and the adlibs by the cast. The entertainment was hilarious and the food was exceptional.  And the efforts of the members & friends of Council 6201 continue…

 

Updated by…

 

Angelo W. Massaro, PGK

 

October 23, 2011