KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS CHARITY GOLF TOURNAMENT
WHEN: Saturday, June 15, 2024. WHERE: Hot Springs Village----Granada Golf Course
Click here to download information and entry form.
The Fr. Victor A. Bieberle Assembly #2316, Hot Springs Village, AR celebrated Columbus Day in a very patriotic way!
Sir Knights festooned the Sacred Heart of Jesus Church early in the morning by posting over 60 large American Flags around the church facilities. They then gathered together in church to say the Madjugorie "Patriotic Rosary" for the consecration of our nation, followed by morning Mass.
The Assembly Faithful Friar, Fr. Bill Elser, led the rosary, with past and current Faithful Navigators leading each decade. Over 85 Knights, wives and parishioners were present to join in either prayers and/or the morning Mass.
Thanks to Tom Donnelly for the article and pictures.
Sir Knights festooned the Sacred Heart of Jesus Church early in the morning by posting over 60 large American Flags around the church facilities. They then gathered together in church to say the Madjugorie "Patriotic Rosary" for the consecration of our nation, followed by morning Mass.
 |
| Flags |
 |
| Mass |
The Assembly Faithful Friar, Fr. Bill Elser, led the rosary, with past and current Faithful Navigators leading each decade. Over 85 Knights, wives and parishioners were present to join in either prayers and/or the morning Mass.
Thanks to Tom Donnelly for the article and pictures.
Welcome to our new Sir Knights! Fourteen brothers became 4th Degree members at the ‘virtual’ Province Exemplification on Saturday, 29 August. Congratulations to: Jerry Bielinski, Rob Bowers, George Byrnes, Jaime Cardenas, Warren Conrad, Don Dierks, Don Glinka, Robert Mierzwiak, Randy Reed, Dave Sprecher, John Szczepaniak, Bill Taylor, Mike Webster, and John Weidert. They will receive their baldrics, certificates, ID cards, nametags, and pins at our next Assembly Meeting on Tuesday, October 27th. Please join us in congratulating them on their advancement into the Patriotic Degree of Knighthood.
Please welcome Fourteen new Brother Knights who became Sir Knights on August 29, 2020.
Congratulations to:
Please welcome Fourteen new Brother Knights who became Sir Knights on August 29, 2020.
Congratulations to:
- Jerry Bielinski
- Rob Bowers
- George Byrnes
- Jaime Cardenas
- Warren Conrad
- Don Dierks
- Don Glinka
- Robert Mierzwiak
- Randy Reed
- Dave Sprecher
- John Szczepaniak
- Bill Taylor
- Mike Webster
- John Weidert
Assembly 2316 had it's General Monthly Meeting on August 25th, 2020. Here are the highlights from the meeting. Please click on the website under the meetings tab then meeting minutes for a more detailed report.
Fr. Bill commented on a book, written by the bishops he received in the mail that provided details on the church may or may not do during an election. He stated he will be putting a summary of the booklet in the bulletin sometime prior to the Election in November.
As always, social distancing and mask protocols were in place during the meeting. In honor of Jim's tremendous Catholic Service to the Parish, the Council and the Assembly, thirty one Knight's and ten of the Knight's wives were among over Eighty attendees during the service. The Assembly unanimously decided to send Jim's wife, Libby a certificate of Condolence.
It was noted that Sir Knight Frank Benda paid for the evening dinner and that he will celebrate his Golden Anniversary of 50 years next year on April 1 as a Knight of Columbus.
Assembly 2316 has been nominated to receive the "Large Assembly of the Year Award" for Arkansas 2019-2020. Former FN, Gary Wolfer, has been requested to send all pertinent information required to the Arkansas District Master validating the Assemblies eligibility. In appreciation of his work as Faithful Navigator for the past two years, FN Gary was presented a Plaque from our current FN Tom Donnelly.
Rick Darnell was the recipient of an Award of Merit for his many contributions. Not only has he served as the Inner Sentenial for the past two years, he also frequently helped collect meeting funds, check membership cards and usher members into the meeting room. Not only that, he developed spreadsheets, coordinated the Audio Visual expertise, created documents and was most valuable in assisting the FN in many communication efforts. Rick is always willing to offer support and any area needed.
Bill Patterson was the recipient of the Award of Merit for his service as Color Corp Commander for the last several years. Bill is rightfully honored by First Trustee Gary Wolfer for his service under Gary's tenure as FN. Bill has been doing this many years and his duties were many. He was always available to coordinate funerals, exemplifications, standing guard, processions, assure uniform requirements were met, reviewed venue expectations, led drill and practice sessions and reviewed the many Color and Honor Guard requests from our parish, Brother Sir Knight's family member and of our church.
An Award of Merit went to Sam Justus for serving as the Faithful Comptroller through no fewer that five administrations. His many duties included were maintaining records, preparing audits, collecting monies due the assembly, keeping accounts of charges and receipts, issuance of membership cards, notification of supreme relative to Assembly exemplifications, deaths transfers, reinstatements, etc.
Fr. Bill commented on a book, written by the bishops he received in the mail that provided details on the church may or may not do during an election. He stated he will be putting a summary of the booklet in the bulletin sometime prior to the Election in November.
As always, social distancing and mask protocols were in place during the meeting. In honor of Jim's tremendous Catholic Service to the Parish, the Council and the Assembly, thirty one Knight's and ten of the Knight's wives were among over Eighty attendees during the service. The Assembly unanimously decided to send Jim's wife, Libby a certificate of Condolence.
It was noted that Sir Knight Frank Benda paid for the evening dinner and that he will celebrate his Golden Anniversary of 50 years next year on April 1 as a Knight of Columbus.
Assembly 2316 has been nominated to receive the "Large Assembly of the Year Award" for Arkansas 2019-2020. Former FN, Gary Wolfer, has been requested to send all pertinent information required to the Arkansas District Master validating the Assemblies eligibility. In appreciation of his work as Faithful Navigator for the past two years, FN Gary was presented a Plaque from our current FN Tom Donnelly.
 |
| Gary Wolfer receiving appreciation Award for his great work as FN from Tom Donnelly |
Rick Darnell was the recipient of an Award of Merit for his many contributions. Not only has he served as the Inner Sentenial for the past two years, he also frequently helped collect meeting funds, check membership cards and usher members into the meeting room. Not only that, he developed spreadsheets, coordinated the Audio Visual expertise, created documents and was most valuable in assisting the FN in many communication efforts. Rick is always willing to offer support and any area needed.
 |
| First Trustee Gary Wolfer presenting Award of Merit to Rick Darnell |
Bill Patterson was the recipient of the Award of Merit for his service as Color Corp Commander for the last several years. Bill is rightfully honored by First Trustee Gary Wolfer for his service under Gary's tenure as FN. Bill has been doing this many years and his duties were many. He was always available to coordinate funerals, exemplifications, standing guard, processions, assure uniform requirements were met, reviewed venue expectations, led drill and practice sessions and reviewed the many Color and Honor Guard requests from our parish, Brother Sir Knight's family member and of our church.
 |
| Award of Merit presentation to Sir Knight Bill Patterson by First Trustee Gary Wolfer |
An Award of Merit went to Sam Justus for serving as the Faithful Comptroller through no fewer that five administrations. His many duties included were maintaining records, preparing audits, collecting monies due the assembly, keeping accounts of charges and receipts, issuance of membership cards, notification of supreme relative to Assembly exemplifications, deaths transfers, reinstatements, etc.
Tuesday June 30, 2020 installation of officers for the 2020/2021 year. All attending were wearing masks and social distancing due to the Corona Virus. Officers and their wives were at the brief Mass and installation. After Mass Sir Knight Jeff Priore, District Manager did the official swearing in of officers with Faithful Friar Fr. Bill Elser.
Congratulations to all.
VETERAN’S DAY PATRIOTIC ROSARY
November 11, 2019 was a celebration for our Deceased and Living Veteran’s for so unselfishly giving their all with some making the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom in this great country.A Patriotic Rosary was held with Five of our Brother Knights reading patriotic quotes as part of the Rosary. Fr. Bill then held a Mass for our Vets and afterwards, there was a recognition of sacrifices and service by our Veterans in the Upper Hall.
 |
| Reception |
A very nice assortment of pastries, fruit, coffee and juices were served with one table and place setting for those Veteran’s that did not return from Duty.
God Bless the Veteran’s and the United States of America where freedom truly reigns
.
 |
| Place Setting for those that have given the Ultimate Sacrifice |
Information for this article was provided by Michael P. Kerwin.
On Thursday September 19, 2019 the St. Francis team coordinated by the 4th Degree assembly and American Legion Post 123 sponsored a Social with finger food for the Vets at St. Francis House.
28 Veterans, 6 staff and 9 volunteers were present. The finger food was provided by many team members from both the Assembly and the American Legion.
Mission of the St. Francis House
The mission of St. Francis House is to provide a means of addressing the diverse, critical needs of the under-served, which are not addressed by others in the community.
History of the St. Francis House
Opened in 1970 as a social outreach of the Episcopal Diocese of Arkansas.
In 1975 under a Title XX contract with Arkansas Social Services, a
licensed social worker was hired to administer a social program.
In 1980 St. Francis House was relocated to its current location at 2701 South Elm Street.
In 1988 a new Re-Entry program was contracted with the Veterans Administration to serve as a transitional program for homeless Veterans that St. Francis House and American Legion Post 123 supports.
Facility Description
The facility is a mix of dormitory and single room occupancy. In addition, there are three family rooms and a self-contained area for female residents. The facility is authorized by the VA to house a maximum of 45 Veterans at any one time. The average attendance in
the past 2 years is between 30 to 35 Veterans. This does not include dependents such as spouses and/or children.
On Thursday September 19, 2019 the St. Francis team coordinated by the 4th Degree assembly and American Legion Post 123 sponsored a Social with finger food for the Vets at St. Francis House.
28 Veterans, 6 staff and 9 volunteers were present. The finger food was provided by many team members from both the Assembly and the American Legion.
 |
| As you can see in the photo, there was plenty of food and a good time was had by all. |
 |
| Pictured above is Vivian (on the right) and her sister, Ann standing in front of the American Flag Vivian hand sewn and presented it to the St. Francis House on June 14, 2018. |
Mission of the St. Francis House
The mission of St. Francis House is to provide a means of addressing the diverse, critical needs of the under-served, which are not addressed by others in the community.
History of the St. Francis House
Opened in 1970 as a social outreach of the Episcopal Diocese of Arkansas.
In 1975 under a Title XX contract with Arkansas Social Services, a
licensed social worker was hired to administer a social program.
In 1980 St. Francis House was relocated to its current location at 2701 South Elm Street.
In 1988 a new Re-Entry program was contracted with the Veterans Administration to serve as a transitional program for homeless Veterans that St. Francis House and American Legion Post 123 supports.
Facility Description
The facility is a mix of dormitory and single room occupancy. In addition, there are three family rooms and a self-contained area for female residents. The facility is authorized by the VA to house a maximum of 45 Veterans at any one time. The average attendance in
the past 2 years is between 30 to 35 Veterans. This does not include dependents such as spouses and/or children.
 |
| Fr. Bill Elser receiving his Jewel |
Knights of Columbus Assembly 2316 Installation of Officers
It was a great night at the Home Plate Restaurant where the new Officers for Assembly 2316, for the Fraternal year 2019-2020 were installed.
A wonderful meal was provided for the new officers, wives and guests. After eating and socializing, Sir Knight and past Faithful Navigator Mike Kerwin, filling in for the State District Manager, Jeff priore, was the conductor of the installation. Fr. Bill was first up to receive his jewel and be installed as the Assemblies Faithful Friar. The wives of each Officer stood in front of their spouse and placed the jewel on them as SK Mike explained their duties while installing the rest of the officers as follows.
Faithful Navigator Gary Wolfer
Comptroller Sam Justus
Captain Tom Donnelly
Pilot Russ Harrison
Scribe Mark Leslie
Purser Lanny Mabus
Inner Sentinel Rick Darnell
Outer Sentinel Ray Ambrozich
Admiral David Witchger
1st Trustee Mike Kerwin
2nd Trustee Frank Benda
3rd Trustee David Johnston
SK Johnny Broome stood in for Ray Ambrozich as he was unable to attend the installation.
Let us keep all these men in our prayers, that they may faithfully execute the duties of their office, bring honor to Assembly 2316, and Glory to Christ in everything they do.
Many more photos in the Photo Section.
 |
| 4th Degree Exemplification at the Sacred Heart of Jesus |
The wives were then treated to a Fashion Show while the candidates were being exemplified. Many thanks to Ruth Wolfer for Charing and coordinating the Fashion Show with clothing featured by Chico’s. The show was held at the Coronado Center with a big Thank You to the Center for donating the room.
Our Faithful Navigator, Gary Wolfer opened the ceremony with Father Patrick Boland giving the invocation. We were blessed to have Father Bill Elser as our Honoree.
Special thanks to the exemplification team: District Master, Jeff Priore; Historian and Captain, Jimmy McKinnon; Faithful Friar, David Meyers; Expositor of the Constitution, Gerald Krawcsynski; Defender of the Faith, Rich Rivera; Registrar, Larry Nieman; Narrator, Lloyd J.Cambre; Music, Joe Kanopsic; Power Point, William Edgar; District Marshal, Greg Mattics.
Our sincerest gratitude to our State Officers: Bishop of Little Rock, Most Rev. Anthony B. Taylor; State Chaplain, Father Patrick Boland; Associate State Chaplain, Reverend Alejandro Puello; State Deputy, Roy J. Anderle; State Secretary, Alan L. Halman; State Treasurer, Lloyd J. Cambre; State Advocate,
Timothy R. Malloy; State Warden, Michael W. Bowman; Past State Deputy, Philip A. Savage.
We had a total of 44 new Sir Knights after the exemplification:
22 from Council 10208 of Hot Springs Village:
James Anderson, Anthony Cifelli, Dan Ferguson, Michael Frantz, Al Hanschmann, Rebel Henry, Rick Hylden, Robert Lennen, Mark Leslie, Thomas Luyet, Chuck MacDonald, Richard Martinek, Stephen Moothart, Arthur Morissette, T L Nelson, William Peterson, Nelson Rubio, John Rymark, Ken Silvers, Robert Steinpreis, Russell Tessier, John Wallisch
16 from St. Barbara’s in DeQueen:
Juan Balderas, Benjamin De La Rosa, Michael Gallaway, Gustavo Gutierrez, Geraldo Hernandez, Villabaldo Hernando, Louis Jimenez, Daniel Loredo, Robert Martinez, Manolo Munoz, Rene Ocampo, Simon Ocampo, Osvaldo Ramirez, Margarito Ramirez, Enrique Sandoval, Jose Trejo
3 from Assembly 2054 in North Little Rock:
Michael Nauman, Steven Nauman, Stephen Rounsaville
2 from Assembly 1892 in Hot Springs:
Fr. Ravi Gudipalli, Micheal Millard
1 from Assembly 0028:
William McDonnell
After the Exemplification the new Sir Knights, Sponsors, Wives and honored guests met for a wonderful dinner, Presentation of the New Sir Knight Certificates, Photographs and recognition to all those that helped put together this most prestigious ceremony.