October 2024 Knight of the Month L-R Mary and Drinnon Hand, GK John Weidert |
Since moving to the village in May 2021 with his wife, Mary, Drinnon has quickly become a cherished member of the Knights of Columbus, known for his dedication, warmth, and commitment to service. His contributions span various roles, all marked by his enthusiasm for helping others and his joy in serving those around him.
Drinnon is a vital presence in the kitchen for the local Knights of Columbus (KofC) events. Working alongside Mike Gonda, he assists with food preparation and dishwashing. His work goes beyond simple chores; Drinnon finds doing dishes both relaxing and rewarding. Whether setting up, tearing down, or cleaning up, his efforts ensure that each KofC function runs smoothly.
Beyond the kitchen, Drinnon lends his expertise to maintaining the beautiful greenery on church grounds, including the Memorial Garden Columbarium. Collaborating with Bill Patterson and Gary Wolfer, he helps maintain the trees, keeping the grounds picturesque and serene. His contributions to this upkeep reflect his appreciation for the community's shared spaces.
Drinnon is also a dedicated member of the Sacred Heart of Jesus (SHOJ) Disaster Response Team, which has been active in assisting the community following the tornadoes that impacted HSV in 2024. His readiness to respond to community needs during these challenging times is a testament to his commitment and reliability.
Every Thursday, Drinnon brings joy to the residents at Good Samaritan by playing his mandolin in sing-alongs. These sessions bring together residents, staff, and community members, filling the space with music, laughter, and camaraderie.
District Deputy Murray Claassen Presents Star Council Award to Gary Wolfer |
District Deputy Murray Claassen Presents Star Council Award to Gary Wolfer at Memorial Mass & Dinner
In a ceremony filled with reverence and celebration, District Deputy Murray Claassen had the honor of presenting the prestigious Star Council award to Gary Wolfer. The award presentation took place during the Memorial Mass & Dinner, an event held to remember and honor the departed while celebrating the accomplishments within the community.
The Star Council award is a significant achievement within the Knights of Columbus organization, representing dedication to faith, service, and brotherhood. Gary Wolfer, as a council leader, earned this accolade through a combination of community service, commitment to council growth, and unwavering support for church and charity initiatives. The award signifies the council's exemplary service and its positive impact on the lives of many.
The Memorial Mass & Dinner served as a fitting backdrop for the award presentation, as members gathered to remember their departed brothers and reflect on the values that bind them together. The ceremony was both solemn and joyous, reminding attendees of their shared commitment to service and unity.
Congratulations to Council 10208 on this well-deserved recognition!
Randy Schnoebelen receiving the Gavel Plaque and Pin from Pat McGannon |
Father Victor A. Bieberle Assembly Honors Randy Schnoebelen for Leadership as Faithful Navigator
At a special ceremony, Pat McGannon proudly presented Randy Schnoebelen with the Gavel Plaque and Pin in recognition of his outstanding leadership as Faithful Navigator for the 2022-2023 year. The Father Victor A. Bieberle Assembly expressed its deep appreciation for Randy's tireless dedication and service to both the 3rd and 4th Degree Knights of Columbus.
Randy's leadership throughout his term as Faithful Navigator exemplified his commitment to the values of Charity, Unity, Fraternity, and Patriotism. His efforts have been instrumental in furthering the Assembly's mission and strengthening its impact within the community.
The assembly is grateful for all that Randy has contributed and looks forward to his continued involvement in future endeavors.
GK John Weidert presenting Jerry and Alison Kordsmeier the September Family of the Month Award |
Jerry and Alison Kordsmeier are extremely involved in making this Parish be the best it can be.
To make this happen, Alison is an active member of or Ladies of Sacred Heart Guild #1, a Jackson House Volunteer and Volunteers at the Hot Springs Village Loan Closet.
To his credit, Jerry is a 4th Degree Knights Officer, an Honor Guard Member, our Council Program Director, Chairman of Samaritan Ministries, Co-chair of our CPID Program, on the Taste of Faith Committee and Ushers at the 5 p.m. Masses.
As a couple, Alison and Jerry are afternoon leaders for the Adoration Chapel and help with St. Francis Meals a number of months during the year and work Parsh Special Events. When you consider all Jerry and Alison are involved in, and the lives they touch, they are exceedingly worthy of the award of September Family of the Month.
GK John Weidert presenting Mike Gonda the September Knight of the Month Award!! |
Mike Gonda is incredibly involved. He supervises all the volunteers and personally works all of the meal events the Knights annually sponsor. These include the meals served at all Monthly Council Meetings, our Spaghetti Dinners, all the Parish Breakfasts and Special Events. We can all imagine the tremendous amount of time, talent and perseverance it takes to accomplish these tasks.
Additionally, Mike volunteers to help put up and take down the Crosses for Life and the Holiday Flags. He is also the Council Director on our Officers and Directors Leadership Team. Mike is the commutant professional and well deserving of Knight of the Month distinction for September.
Assembly 2316 served dinner to about 50 veterans and staff |
The Knights of Columbus Assembly 2316 hosted a dinner event where they served meals from Corky's BBQ to approximately 50 veterans at St. Francis House in Hot Springs, AR. This generous event was underwritten by Sir Knight Tom Donnelly. The volunteers who helped make this event a success included Pietro and Jackie Tomassi, Pat McGannon, Mike and Ruth Kerwin, and Terry Theisan.
Volunteers included Pietro and Jackie Tomassi, Pat McGannon, Mike and Ruth Kerwin and Terry Theisan. |
Left-Right GK John Weidert, Bill Patterson, Don Hemler, Gerald Krawczynski, Keith Unrein, Chris Mullaney, Danny Woodend, Randy Schnoebelen |
On August 11, 2024, a meaningful ceremony took place, highlighting the values of our organization: Charity, Unity, and Fraternity. The event was presided over by Randy Schnoebelen, with spiritual guidance provided by Chaplain Fr. Bill. Bill Patterson, representing Charity, Gerald Krawczynski, embodying Unity, and Mike Kerwin, exemplifying Fraternity, each played a crucial role in the proceedings. Chris Mullaney served diligently as Warden, ensuring the ceremony's smooth execution.
The ceremony welcomed three new candidates into our brotherhood: Don Hemler, Keith Unrein, and Danny Woodend. They stood proudly as a testament to the growth and strength of our community, their commitment to our shared values evident.
The ceremony was attended by a total of 12 members, including our esteemed District Deputy, Murray Claassen, who provided additional support and encouragement to our new members.
This event was a powerful reminder of our collective commitment to the principles that guide us, and we look forward to the continued growth and unity of our organization.
Council of the Yearr |
Wow. A great year for Council 10208
Local Knights of Columbus Council 10208 Receives Top Award
The Hot Springs Village Sacred Heart of Jesus Knights of Columbus Council 10208 has received the distinction of Star Council, the international organization's top award for local councils. This prestigious honor is awarded to councils that demonstrate overall excellence in key areas such as membership growth, promotion of fraternal insurance benefits, sponsorship of faith formation programs, and engagement in service-oriented activities.
Achievements of Council 10208
In addition to the coveted Star Council Award, Council 10208 has also been recognized with several other notable awards:
- Large Council of the Year for the State of Arkansas: This award is given to the council that stands out among its peers in size and impact within the state.
- Helping People with Special Needs (HPSN) Award: This accolade acknowledges the council's outstanding efforts in supporting individuals with special needs through various initiatives and programs.
- Life Category Award: This award honors the council's commitment to pro-life activities and advocacy, showcasing their dedication to promoting the sanctity of life at all stages.
- Faith Category Award: This recognition is for the council's exemplary work in fostering faith-based activities and programs that strengthen the spiritual life of its members and the community.
- Third Quarter Faith in Action Award: This award highlights the council's exceptional performance in implementing the Faith in Action program during the third quarter, reflecting their active participation in faith, family, community, and life activities.
Join the Knights of Columbus
The Knights of Columbus is a Catholic fraternal organization dedicated to promoting charitable work, supporting the church, and fostering unity and fraternity among its members. Joining the Knights of Columbus provides an opportunity to make a positive impact in the community, grow in faith, and develop lifelong friendships.
For those interested in joining the Knights of Columbus, please contact our local Membership Director, Robert Ward, at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 501-416-1479.
He can provide more information about the organization, membership requirements, and the benefits of becoming a Knight.
Council 10208's achievements are a testament to the dedication and hard work of its members, who continuously strive to live out the principles of charity, unity, and fraternity. Through their efforts, they have made a significant difference in the lives of many, embodying the true spirit of the Knights of Columbus.
IN ADDITION TO STAR COUNCIL, MORE AWARDS
Family of the Month: Murray & Kim Claassen from April Council Meeting
Knight of the Year: Rick Darnell
Family of the Year - Bill and Diane Patterson |
Council Family of the Year: Bill & Diane Patterson
Appreciation Award: Karen Feckler
Lifetime Achievement Award: Bob Honzik
Honorary Membership: Russell Tessier
Lloyd Cambre presented Murray Claassen the District Deputy of the Year Award for the State of Arkansas.
Installation of the 2024-2025 Officers |
On Saturday, June 29th, Father Victor A. Bieberle Assembly #2316 installed its new officers for the Fraternal Year 2024/2025 (pictured above). They are (left to right) Frank Klier (for John Bodin), Faithful Pilot; Bob Kulas, Faithful Purser; Ted Otero, Outer Sentinel; Father Bill Elser, Faithful Friar; Jerry Kordsmeier, Inner Sentinel; Larry Gremillion, Faithful Scribe; Pat McGannon, Faithful Navigator; State Deputy Lloyd Cambre, Conferring Officer; Ed Doyle, Third Trustee; Dave Witchger, Faithful Admiral; John Weidert, First Trustee; Bill Patterson, Faithful Comptroller; Russell Tessier, Faithful Captain. Missing form photo, Randy Schnoebelen, Second Trustee.
The Fourth Degree is the highest degree-level of the Knights of Columbus and it is devoted to the virtue of Patriotism. Our assembly now has almost 200 members and we conduct many patriotic events throughout the fraternal year. The Supreme Council instituted the 4th Degree in the year 1900 and we look forward to celebrating the 125th anniversary in 2025!