Grand Knight Donald E. Wilhelm (1972-1973)

Washington Council commenced its 76th year under the leadership of Donald E. Wilhelm who had joined the council in 1963. At this time the council membership had fallen to 286 full dues paying members, a decline of nearly 50 percent in a decade. Grand Knight Wilhelm's approach to this situation was to develop a motto, "Spirit of `76," while urging the membership to face the new council year with revolutionary and new ideas so that a council which was old in years could be young in actions as had been its long history.

The officers of the District of Columbia State Council as well as the officers of all the subordinate councils were installed jointly in a ceremony on July 16 at nearby St. Ann's Church. An honor guard from the 2nd Maryland District, Fourth Degree, witnessed the installation of officers including the new State Deputy, PGK Joseph J. O'Malley. A reception was held afterwards at the Washington Council Home for the officers, members, and guests.

Administrative duties occupied the rest of the summer for the new administration with a budget being approved at the August meeting. The first social event of the year was a casual get together on an August Sunday afternoon. The Grand knight announced that the Washington Council Monthly would hereafter become a quarterly publication.

The year got off to a promising start with the exemplification of the first degree in September for four new members. Another first degree was exemplified in February for four more new members. In a change from previous scheduling, the Grand Knight scheduled the Las Vegas Party for a Sunday afternoon in September to make it more convenient for the members and their friends to attend.

Brother Alfred Snyderwine was chosen by the Grand Knight to mastermind an Octoberfest celebration at the Council Home. It was our Germanic brother Knight's answer to Irish and Italian festive dinners, and was a great success under the watchful eye of Herr Snyderwine who served as chairman and chief cook.

Two speakers made interesting and much appreciated presentations at council meetings. The first was John Hillyard, a lawyer and member, who spoke on the importance of wills and estate planning. The second was Patrick Beck, who spoke about stocks and bonds for investments.

The annual Columbus Day Observance at the Union Station Columbus Plaza, sponsored annually by the Knights of Columbus and Italian-American organizations, was special for the Knights because the principal speaker was Supreme Knight John McDevitt.

Another change from the past was the venue for the annual Lt. Joseph J. Spigone, Jr. Memorial Scholarship fund raising dance. For the first time was held in the Council Home. This year the essay topic chosen was titled "Should the District of Columbia have home rule?"

The Christmas season was welcomed with the members party featuring the usual and now legendary supply of hams, turkeys and bottles of cheer. Another Christmas party was held for a large group of children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews of members who were entertained with games arranged in carnival style in the council chamber.

The new year was ushered in by the annual Discarded Eye Glass collection campaign under the chairmanship of Don Rampolla. This was the ninth year of this charitable activity which was founded in 1964 by Stanley H. Williamson in cooperation with the Prevention of Blindness Society of metropolitan Washington and New Eyes for the Needy of Short Hills, NJ. More than 800,000 pairs of eyeglasses had been donated to be recycled for those in need of glasses.

The annual Archbishop's Charity Ball was attended by several council members. A testimonial dinner was held to honor PGK Vincent Spigone and DGK William H. Brown. Their work on behalf of the council was recalled by PGK Frank Law and PGK Lester Krute. Another innovation by the Wilhelm administration was to make this testimonial dinner an open affair attended by family and friends.

The PGK party was held during a regular meeting with the Past Grand Knights occupying the chair positions. The members' ladies joined the festivities later at a buffet supper.

The 76th Anniversary Dinner Dance was held at the Council Home for the first time with dinner being prepared by a caterer. The winners of the essay contest and scholarship awards were Gail P. Cleary and Steven C. Michael, both from St. Jane de Chantal parish in Bethesda. Knight of the Year honors went to John T. Cribbin, and Frank Spigone won the New Knight of the Year award, with service awards going to PGK Frank Jordan, George O'Rourke, and John Bartley.

A resolution adopted by Washington Council urging merger of the State Councils of the District of Columbia and Maryland was presented at the State Council convention but was defeated.

Members' deaths reported to have occurred during Grand Knight Wilhelm's term were: Alex Duchesne, Thomas J. Dutton, William A. Kehoe (PGK 1946-47 and PSD 1948-50), Patrick H. McCormick, Alfred A. McGarraghy (PGK 1935-36), Edward A. McGreevy, and John R. Meyer.

PGK John C. Moore was installed as Faithful Navigator of Washington General Assembly, Fourth Degree, and Leonard J. Stone as Faithful Navigator of Cardinal O'Boyle Assembly. Martin A. Cook was notified that he would be awarded the pontifical honor, Pro Ecclesia et Pontifica, for his "outstanding service to the Church in the Archdiocese of Washington." The medal was presented by Patrick Cardinal O'Boyle.

The year ended with a Ladies Day celebration on a Sunday in June featuring cocktails, a buffet and a gift for each lady.

Grand Knight William H. Brown, III (1973-1974)

Since his initiation into the Order in 1951, Bill Brown had served the council on many committees and his time had arrived to take up the Grand Knight's gavel. No one was prouder of that moment than his father, Bill Brown, Jr., a member of the Order since 1921. The joint installation of State Council and subordinate council officers was held in the Crypt Church of the Shrine of the Immaculate Conception on the campus of The Catholic University of America. The installation ceremony was followed by a reception at Washington Council Home.

Grand Knight Brown reported that presiding over his first meeting was like attending a seance because of a power failure which affected the entire building. Fortunately, candles were on hand so that he was able to conduct a full business meeting. At the August meeting, the annual council budget was approved, Harry Taylor was appointed chairman of the SKILO game, and the council presented immediate Past Grand Knight Don Wilhelm with a gift of a stereo and speakers.

Early in September the annual council picnic was held at Camp St. Charles in Southern Maryland under nice weather with a variety of family activities including swimming, fishing, crabbing, and a spirited baseball game.

Thanks to the Georgetown University speaker's bureau, the new Grand Knight was able to arrange for two excellent speakers at council meetings. The first at a September meeting was Professor Riley Hughes of the Department of English at Georgetown whose amusing and informative topic was "How I Became Obsolete Reading and Writing the Wrong Books." The second speaker, in October, was Father Alexander Sinclair who spoke on "Young Adults in the Ministry." Later in the term, brother Charles Considine was an entertaining speaker at a meeting in February on "The Early Days of Washington Council."

The annual Columbus Day observance at Columbus Plaza included two special speakers, the Honorable Lawrence J. Hogan, member of Congress from Prince George's County, and the Honorable John Volpe, Ambassador to Italy and former Secretary of Transportation.

The second degree was exemplified at Bishop Byrne Council on October 23rd with the candidates from Washington Council being driven to Byrne Council to receive the second lesson of the Order.

The annual Memorial Mass was celebrated in the Council Home in early November, and the scholarship fund raising dance also was held in the Council Home on November 10th with music provided by the ever popular Embers. The topic for the annual essay contest was announced: "The Holy Year: A Time of Decision for Me." Council members also began their annual judging of the extemporaneous speech portion of the Washington Forensic League competition.

December was an active month starting with the annual Pound Party to raise funds for the Little Sisters of the Poor, followed by the annual Christmas party for the children of the council and the annual Christmas party for the members. The Spigone clan took home seven gifts won at the Christmas party.

The new year was welcomed at the Council Home with music by the late John Sedoti who had entertained at many council functions for several years. Later in January the Discarded Eye Glass collection campaign was kicked off at an open meeting attended by family and friends who were entertained by ventriloquist and magician Arty Freda.

Although attendance was held down by snow which fell all day, the annual Archbishop's Charity Ball took place on February 8th at St. Mary's Church Hall in Riverdale, Maryland. Martin Cook, again the chairman of this event, was pleased to present Cardinal O'Boyle a check in the amount of $10,000.

A number of our brother Knights attended the annual St. Patrick's Day parade in Washington. Also in March, the 19th Knights of Columbus Basketball Tournament was held at George Mason University in Fairfax, VA, which resulted in a local team, St. John's College High School, winning the competition. Liz Hagan, a student at Stone Ridge School in Potomac, Maryland won the Washington Forensic League extemporaneous speech contest. She went on to represent the League and gain the quarter finals at the National Speech Finals in New Orleans in June.

Other activities at the Council Home included the Cinema Races in cooperation with the Order of the Alhambra, the exemplification of the first and second degrees on April 9th, and the appearance of Arthur Gereaux, General Insurance Agent, at the March 26th meeting to speak on the Order's insurance program. The third degree was exemplified on May 11th at Edward Douglas White Council in Arlington by the Virginia team.

The annual State Council convention was held at St. Ann's parish hail in May and Philip A. Smith was elected State Deputy for a second term. Cocktails and dinner were served at the Washington Council Home.

The 77th Anniversary Dinner-Dance was held in the Council Home on April 20th, Msgr. Leonard F. Hurley, Director of Radio and Television of the Archdiocese of Washington, was the featured speaker. The winners of the council's scholarships were Dana Jean Ridgeway of St. Elizabeth's School and Robert Graham of St. Jude's School, both in the Rockville area. PGK Lester Krute received the Knight of the Year award and Edgar McGinnis was recognized with the New Member of the Year award. Special service awards were given to brothers Alfred Snyderwine and Donald Rampolla. Music for the evening was provided by Donato.

The following week, on April 26th, Keane and Spaulding Councils held a joint 75th Jubilee Anniversary Party, which was attended by several Washington Council members.

A testimonial dinner honored PGK John C. Moore and PGK Harry Taylor on May 25th. The speakers who extolled their achievements were, respectively, PGK Harry Montgomery and PGK Donald Wilhelm.

The term came to an end with the customary party for the Past Grand Knights of the council on June 23rd during which those in attendance enjoyed seeing three beautiful bound photo albums of the 75th Diamond Jubilee party held at the Ramada Inn in Lanham in 1972.

Several Knights died during this year: Msgr. Henry Collins, Hugh C. Connolly, Martin A. Cook, Stephen J. Driscoll, Thomas du Fief, Msgr. Lawrence Gatti, Harry W. Gerrity, Daniel W. Keller, Sheridan Kleindienst, John L. Larkin, Sebastian J. LaScola, Dr. A. C. Leonardo, Arthur M. McCreight, Francis B. (Barney) Myers (PGK 1942-43), Alfred P. Neff (PGK 1943-44), Robert C. Riordan, Patrick Ryan, and Geoffrey Thornett.

At the end of Grand Knight Brown's term in office, the Council Home s first mortgage had been reduced to $290. 194 and the second trust to $30,678. Return to History Index

Grand Knight Charles E. Taylor (1974-1975)

The term of Grand Knight Charles Taylor commenced with his installation at the Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in a joint ceremony involving all the officers of the DC State Council and the subordinate councils. Following the officers' investiture, Washington Council Home was the venue for a reception to celebrate the beginning of another year of Columbianism in Washington.

The usual abbreviated summer meeting schedule prevailed with the Grand Knight's budget being presented and approved at the August meeting, PGK Bill Brown was presented with a gift, a portable television set and stand. Camp St. Charles in Southern Maryland once again was the scene of the annual family picnic on September 8th.

The annual fund raising dance was held to finance the Lt. Joseph J. Spigone, Jr. scholarships presented annually to two eighth-grade students to assist them to finance their education at a Catholic high school of their choice. The scholarship winners are chosen by an essay contest conducted each year with the approval of the Archdiocesan Office of Education. In Grand Knight Taylor's term the essay topic was "Values to Live by: America 1975."

Another program which Washington Council has supported for many years is the Washington Forensic League competition for which the council has supplied the judges for the extemporaneous speech contests. Many brothers have risen early on many Saturday mornings to journey to various schools in the metropolitan area to serve as judges. This year it was Grand Knight Taylor's pleasure to present the Washington Council revolving trophy to Tricia Donahue of Ursuline Academy who won the 1974-1975 extemporaneous competition. PGK Lester Krute served as chairman of the citizenship committee which is responsible for judging the speech contests and choosing the winners of the two scholarship awards.

During the Fall and early Winter months there was a Las Vegas and Bond Raffle Night in October, the Pound Party for the Little Sisters of the Poor, and Christmas parties for the members and for the council children.

Brother G. Francis Daw was appointed Chairman of the 224 Club, which, together with the weekly SKILO activity, were sustaining and successful means of raising funds to help reduce the debt on the Council Home.

January was a very busy month for the Taylor administration. The scholarship fund raising dance was held on January 23 at which eight door prizes were awarded. The council responded once again to this appeal with 112 members signing up to be patrons of the dance. Two days later the council honored its ladies with a Ladies Night, the music being provided by James Daw, brother of G. Francis Daw. On January 28th, the council again was the scene of the annual Discarded Eye Glass Collection campaign which this year resulted in 4,352 eye glasses being collected. Ventriloquist and magician Arty Freda made a repeat performance to entertain the members and their families.

The Washington Council Toastmasters Club celebrated its tenth anniversary during Grand Knight Taylor's term and PGK Joseph J. O'Malley won the Area VI Toastmasters International serious speech contest. Eleven Knights and their spouses journeyed to the Chesapeake Bay Restaurant in Bethesda to lend support to PGK O'Malley for his excellent and winning performance.

Fr. Lee H. Bradley, S.J., an associate professor at Georgetown University, was the guest speaker at tile February 25th meeting. He spoke on "Christianity: Old Answers to New Problems."

The 78th Anniversary Dinner-Dance was held at Holy Redeemer School Auditorium in Kensington with Auxiliary Bishop Thomas W. Lyons as the featured speaker. Music was furnished by the Embers. Tile scholarship winners were Carolyn Finney of Our Lady of Mercy in Potomac and Lisa D'Avanzo of St. John Evangelist in Clinton, Maryland. Grand Knight Taylor presented G. Francis Daw with the Outstanding Knight of the Year Award and Charles Vaughan with the Knight of the Year Award. New `Member of tile Year' awards were given to Thomas H. E. Moran and Charles DiGiulian. Grand knight Taylor later presented an outstanding service award to Mariano Jesus who was in the hospital.

A Testimonial Dinner was held to honor Past Grand Knights Joseph J. O'Malley and Martin J. Ryan. Some members thought it was a spark of genius on the part of Grand Knight Taylor to recognize these two brother knights and sometimes "combatants" together on the same program. Their respective talents were enumerated by PGK William A. Donahoe and PGKPSD John C. Moore.

The 20th Knights of Columbus Basketball Tournament was held at George Mason University in Fairfax with tile trophy being won this year by Dunbar High School of Washington.

The membership was diminished this year by the death of these loyal members: Bernard E. Bartscherer, Carl M. Betz, Adrian L. Brunett, Joseph P. Burke, Jr., Henry V. Corvelli, Glenn E. Feeney, Thomas G. Logan, Lester F. Moss (PGK 195 1-52), James E. Riley, Carl A. Ries, Sr., and Charles F. Ruppert. Brother Glenn Feeney had been the publisher for many years of the Washington Council Monthly which was our vehicle for notifying the membership of upcoming events and reporting on the social and business events. It was especially appreciated by the many members who no longer were able to attend meetings and social affairs.

In addition to the Past Grand knight's party which was the customary icing-on-the-cake event to end a term, Grand Knight Taylor had the pleasure of witnessing two special events. One was a pot luck dinner to raise funds for tile Home for Convalescent and Elderly Priests at Carroll Manor. This netted $350 which at the last meeting of his term the Council voted to increase to $500. The other was his son's application for membership which was accepted by the council at the June 10th meeting. The first degree was administered to the candidate by PGK Don Wilhelm.

Grand Knight David G. Hillyard (1975-76)

As David Hillyard assumed the Grand Knight's chair, the membership count was reported to be 394 total members. Eleven members had died during the preceding year. At the initial meeting of his term, a motion to transfer scholarship funds to the Home for Retired Priests was defeated.

The Grand Knight's proposed budget was rejected for lack of the required quorum of twenty-five members. The budget was later approved at the December 9th meeting when a resolution was approved to amend the council's bylaws to reduce the number needed to constitute a quorum from 25 to 15. The amendment was proposed on the basis that the membership of the council had declined since the quorum was set at twenty-five.

The social activities in the early months of Grand Knight Hillyard's term included the annual family picnic and beach party at Camp St. Charles, participation in the Columbus Day dinner, and the 15th annual Scholarship Fundraising Dance which was held at the Council Home with music provided by the Embers.

Some members journeyed to Baltimore to attend a field Mass of Thanksgiving on September 14th to celebrate the canonization of the first American-born Saint, Blessed Elizabeth Ann Seton. The Mass was celebrated at the Cathedral of Mary Our Queen by the Most Reverend Eugene A. Marino, Auxiliary Bishop of Washington.

The council organized a bingo party in October for children of diplomats from eight different countries.

The first degree was exemplified at the Oblates of Mary Immaculate Seminary on September 28th. The speaker at the October 28th meeting was Mark G. Winder, area sales manager for the Shell Oil Company, who was introduced by PGK Bill Brown. Mr. Winder spoke on the energy crisis which members may recall resulted in gasoline shortages, higher prices, and long lines at service stations.

The Little Sisters of the Poor Pound Party was held on December 7th and attended by representatives of several councils. The Annual Labor Day Mass was celebrated at the Shrine of the Sacred Heart on September 1St, and the annual Memorial Mass for deceased brothers was on November 9th at the Council Home. Mass was celebrated by Chaplain, Msgr. Henry Yannone. Widows and families of recently deceased members were guests of the council for a fine buffet served after the Mass.

The topic for the annual essay contest was "Bicentennial." The scholarships were awarded to the two winners at the 79th Anniversary Dinner Dance in April at Holy Redeemer Parish. The annual Archbishop's Charity Ball was held on April 23rd at Sacred Heart Council in Bowie, MD.

Ladies Night was on January 24th and a Italian Dinner was enjoyed by members and friends in February.

The Grand Knight reported with regret that the Washington Council Monthly which had been published for many years at no cost to the Council by our late brother, Glenn Feeney, was being discontinued. Henceforth, news of council activities would be provided in periodic newsletters.

The deaths found to be recorded in the council records during this year were those of Joseph F. Amato, James Cuff, Walter Delaney, William Moses, Francis J. O'Donnell, and Alfred C. Snyderwine.

Grand Knight Frank V. Spigone (1976-1977)

This account of the two terms of Grand Knight Frank V. Spigone is unfortunately but necessarily brief. The council minutes are not available and reportedly were destroyed by rain water while temporarily left laying an open window sill in the Council office. Also, publication of the Washington Council Monthly had ceased and there were only three newsletters during each of Grand Knight Spigone's two terms and these were very brief documents.

When Frank was elected Grand Knight, he stepped into some big shoes filled by his father PGK Joseph Spigone (1964-65) and his uncle PGK Vincent Spigone (1968-69). He filled them admirably, but he died in 1985 during the term of GK Thomas Moran. His recollections of his terms in office were not recorded in any council records.

St. Ambrose's Fannon Hall in Cheverly, Maryland was the site of the 80th Anniversary Dinner Dance on April 23, 1977. The guest speaker was John Moylan, the principal of St. John de Matha High School, and music was provided by The Embers.

Grand Knight Frank V. Spigone (1977-1978)

Grand Knight William E. Bromley (1978-1979)

When William E. "Sam" Bromley took office as Grand Knight, his team of officers included a new Chaplain, Fr. Donald Essex, Assistant Pastor at Sacred Heart Church, and a new Financial Secretary, PGK Lester W. Krute.

Sam Bromley's term got off to an historic beginning with the announcement that the second trust on the Council Home had been paid in full. This was indeed welcome news to many who could recall the financial difficulties of ten years ago which nearly resulted in loss of the Council Home.

Early in Grand Knight Bromley's term, news came from the Vatican of the death of two Popes. Pope Paul VI died on August 6, 1978. His successor, John Paul I, was chosen 20 days later but served only 34 days as he died suddenly on September 28, 1978.

One of the activities recorded in Sam Bromley's term was something different, a Flea Market! According to the council newsletter, it was an appeal to members to transfer their "eyesores and junk" to the council as a means of raising money for the scholarship fund. The record does not indicate how successful this venture was, but it certainly got high marks for originality.

The 18th annual scholarship fund raising dance was held at the Council Home in tandem with a $500 bond raffle. There were 118 patrons for the dance at which music was provided once again by The Embers.

A Memorial Mass was celebrated by Fr. Essex for members who died during the past year.

Ten of our members who are priests were recognized as Honorary life members, including Bishop Thomas W. Lyons, Msgr. Henry Yannone, and Msgr. Joseph Denges. Msgr. Yannone was Council Chaplain from 1971 to 1978 during the terms of eight consecutive Grand Knights, and Msgr. Denges was Chaplain from 1928 to 1933.

In December Christmas merriment prevailed with three parties: the council members party, the children's' party, and the Reginas of Washington Council party. all in the Council Home. Forty children were entertained by the clowns of Prince George's Council.

The year 1979 was introduced at the Council Home with a two-sided celebration, one being a dinner to honor the ladies of the Council and the other was a burning of the second trust on the Council Home. It was a joyful bonfire especially for those who could remember the difficult financial crisis about a decade ago.

In February the popular Monte Carlo Night and Spaghetti Dinner returned by popular acclamation and all enjoyed a night of Cinema Races as well. At the February 27th council meeting the program included a speaker from the District of Columbia Fire Department who provided useful information on the subject of fire prevention.

The Archbishop's Charity Ball was at St. Mary's Burgundy Room in Landover Hills, MD. The first degree was exemplified in March for a small class consisting of the new chaplain, Fr. Essex, also included were Paul Tarent and John Pulchino who received the second and third degrees before the end of the term.

Members who died this year were Anthony C. D'Alessandro, Edward I. Collins, Robert H. Grimes, Eugene J. Hourihane, Mariano R. Jesus, Gardner J. O'Boyle, F. J. Radner, J. Garret Reilly, Richard 0. Sanderson, Lawrence F. Serrin, and John J. Sullivan.

At the Reginas pot luck supper on March 25th brother Luciano Salazar and his Chili Cowboys entertained with Chilean folk and love songs to the delight of the women of the council.

An Anniversary Dinner was held at the Council Home to celebrate the 82nd anniversary of the council's founding and to honor the two youngsters who won the two council scholarships by writing the best essays on the topic "Religious Vocations: What It Means to Me." Fr. Donald Essex, Council Chaplain, was guest speaker and expanded on the essay topic. The winning essayists were Maura Fitzgerald of Blessed Sacrament School and Marcia A.C. Kelly of St. Mark's in Adelphi, Maryland. Grand Knight Bromley presented the Outstanding Knight of the Year award to PGK Vincent P. Spigone and the Knight of the Year award to Thomas P. Heery.

Grand Knight Thomas P. Heery (1979-1980)

Grand Knight Richard M. Curtin (1980-1981)

Richard Curtin took office as Grand Knight of Washington Council s PGK Harry Taylor became Faithful Navigator of Washington Assembly Fourth Degree.

Another Yard and Bake Sale on September 13th got the year off to a good start. The Columbus Day Ceremony activities were over a period of two days with Mass at the Shrine of the Immaculate Conception and a Dinner Dance at Byrne Council both on Sunday, October 12th, and the civil ceremony at the Columbus Statue on October 13th.

The council again joined with the Alcantara Caravan in a joint Memorial Mass for deceased members of both organizations on November 8th with Council Chaplain Fr. Essex as celebrant.

The 20th annual scholarship dance was supported by 106 patrons this year, thus ensuring the success of the program for another year. Members at the dance enjoyed the music of The Embers, and one of them won the $500 savings bond raffle. The traditional Pound Party for the Little Sisters of the Poor was held on December 7th at Trinity College, and the customary Christmas party for the children took place on December 14th with PGK Charles Taylor in his customary Santa role.

The Italian Dinner was becoming a regular social event of the year and generally in February when everyone hoped the winter weather was beginning to retreat. Such was the case on February 21, 1981, for Italian Dinner and Monte Carlo Night at the Council Home.

The 84th Anniversary Dinner was the setting for the awarding of two scholarships by the council to the winners of the annual essay contest. This year they went to Helen M. Miller of St. Marks's in Adelphi and Trojanna Fields of Holy Comforter/St. Cyprian in Washington. Fr. Robert S. Nagle, assistant superintendent of schools for the Archdiocese of Washington, was the guest speaker. Also, at the anniversary dinner, PGK J. Francis Lee was recognized as the Knight of the Year.

The council membership was diminished this year by the deaths of brothers Robert I. Brown, William H. Brown, Jr., John J. Carey, James Fernane, Dr. David J. Fitzgibbon, William H. Green, Thomas M. Lanigan, Paul May, Msgr. Agustin R. Martinez, Harry M. Scholl, John J. Slattery, Sr., Msgr. Henry J. Yannone (Council Chaplain 1970-1978), and Donald K. Willett.

A Past Grand Knights and Old Timers Night closed out Grand Knight Curtin's year.

Grand Knight J. Francis Lee (1981-1982)>/A>

Grand Knight Morgan Matthews (1982-1983)

Grand Knight Matthews chose to open his term with a membership drive at the Council Home, offering pizza and beer. Six candidates were the fruit of this July 17th membership open house, and it was repeated on October 23rd. Soon after, a first degree was held for six new members, including our new chaplain Fr. David Russell of Little Flower Church..

The first of six planned First Friday luncheon clubs was held on October 1st with Mass at Noon followed by a luncheon and speaker.

The 21st annual scholarship dance again featured music by The Embers and a $500 savings bond raffle. There were 130 patrons of the dance this year..

Italian Dinner and Cinema Horse Races returned in February, and the Archbishop's Charity Ball was held on April 22 at St. Mary's Burgundy Room. A fire in the council chambers caused $5,000 damage according to an estimate of the fire Marshall. The janitor noticed smoke coming from the second floor which was determined to have been caused by a short circuit in an exit light above the door..

The 86th Anniversary was celebrated at the Council Home with Chaplain Fr. Russell as the guest speaker. The Knight of the Year honor was awarded to PGK Vincent P. Spigone. The two winners of the council scholarships, Joseph House of St. Cornillus and Carolyn Cooney of St. Jude's, were present to receive their awards..

Members who passed away this year were William A. Cam Sr., Frank J. DiMisa, William H. Exner, Joseph F. Holub, Vincent McGarry, Paul W. McGovern, Martin J. Meenehan, Christopher J. Myers, Les I. Prosise, Edmund M. Ready, Wilfred P. Ross, Evan A. Sholl, William F. Shea, Adam Walker, and Charles A. Wentzell..

The Grand Knight announced that the 224 Club would be canceled after the July 29th drawing because of lack of participation and the fact that the council had lost money in the past few years..

On June 26th the term concluded with the Past Grand Knights and Old Timers Reunion and Open House complete with a buffet.

Grand Knight Edmund F. Jones, Jr. (1983-1984)

This was the 22nd year of the council's scholarship program to raise funds for the two scholarships awarded by the council to enable students to obtain a Catholic high school education. Originally known as the Washington Council Scholarship, the program later was named in memory of Lt. Joseph J. Spigone, Jr. who died in an airplane crash in the Philippines. Lt. Spigone was the son of PGK Joseph J. Spigone Sr. The annual fund raising dance this year was on November 26th and 126 members subscribed as patrons of the program. Twenty-seven of them were Past Grand Knights. The topic of the essay contest conducted annually to select two winners of $500 scholarships was "How I Would Achieve World Peace.".

The Memorial Mass was celebrated by Chaplain Fr. Russell on November 5th, and Ladies Night appreciation was on January 29th at the Council Home. The Christmas party was held for the members on December 13th and the children and grandchildren of the council were entertained by a magic show at their party on December 18th. The annual Italian Dinner and Monte Carlo Night was on March 3rd. The 87th Anniversary Dinner was on April 28th at which the Grand Knight presented the Knight of the Year Award to Deputy Grand Knight Thomas Moran. The winners of the two scholarships were Michael Galleher and Steve Williams both of St. Pius X School in Bowie, Maryland. Fr. David Russell, council chaplain, was the guest speaker at the dinner..

PGK. and PFN. Thomas Heery announced that he was retiring and moving to sunny Florida. The State Convention was held on May 5th at Byrne Council. The PGK party was held on June 24th..

Members who died this year were Thomas J. Breen, Jr., John J. Herrity, Donald A. Hunter, Harold F. Jones, Sr. (PGK 1934-35), and Dr. Andrew J. Kress..

Degrees conferred this term were second degrees at Keane Council on October 18th and Shrine Council on November 29th, and at Byrne Council on April 3 0th, and third degrees at Byrne Council on December 4th and April 15th..

PGK Lester Krute submitted his resignation as Financial Secretary for reasons of health.

Grand Knight Thomas H. E. Moran (1984-1985)

When Thomas Moran assumed the Grand Knight's chair, he recognized that the council's three major problems were declining membership, lack of participation, and lack of recognition. Over the previous ten council years, the council had lost 37.8 percent of its members. Of the 250 plus members, it was rare that more than 10 to 20 percent attended a meeting or event. The average age was 65 and 42 percent of the membership was honorary and honorary life. The same few stalwart members and their wives were carrying on the work of the council. Often the committee chairmen were the only members of the committees and many were doing double or triple duty. It was essential to involve more members in committees, programs, and events..

The council was not getting recognition it deserved from State and Supreme Councils for program accomplishments, primarily because the reports were not being submitted on time and membership quotas were not being achieved. Timely reports and just making the Associate Member quota gained for the council the Father McGivney and Columbian Awards from the Supreme Council, and we just missed the Star Council Award by one insurance member to fulfill our quota for the Founders' Award..

Since the primary source of potential members is the local parishes, the K of C Parish Liaison- Round Table program seemed to be a good vehicle to establish rapport with the various pastors and parishes. This was accomplished by appointing liaison officers in nine local parishes: St. Ann, Annunciation, Blessed Sacrament, Epiphany, Holy Trinity, Our Lady of Victory, St. Matthew, St. Steven Martyr, and St. Thomas the Apostle. The K of C Altar Server Awards program was an excellent opportunity to help the pastors reward their altar servers and make a large number of local Catholic homes aware of the council's existence. One hundred sixty altar server award certificates were presented to four parishes: Annunciation, Epiphany, Our Lady of Victory, and Blessed Sacrament. The U.S. government surplus food distribution program put our members in contact with the parish committees actively concerned with helping the needy and provided some assistance to them. Members distributed 20 five-pound blocks of surplus cheese and 50 cartons of surplus field rations (peanut butter and crackers) to parish social concerns committees, an orphanage, and a home for retarded..

The Very Important Proposer (VIP) club program had been set up by the Supreme Council in 1974, but never implemented in Washington Council. The Honor Roll idea seemed an excellent way to publicly acknowledge those who had recruited at least two new members since 1974 and to inspire others to try. The council recognized 18 VIP Club members who brought in two or more new members since 1974 on an Honor Roll in the Council Home..

The Young Peoples Dance was an attempt to reach out to young Catholic adults in the area and make them familiar with the Council Home and its facilities in the hope that the young men would join the Knights. Forty young people attended the dance on January 12th..

Having its own Certified First Degree Team at the Council was extremely useful in getting candidates through their First Degree in a timely manner. The team consisted of: Stafford L. Jones, Frank D. Law, Thomas H.E. Moran, Harry C. Taylor, Lester W. Krute, Richard M. Curtin, Jr., J. Francis Lee, and Charles E. Taylor. Thirteen new members were initiated this year. The new Knights were Steven Burns, Richard W. Eaton, Robert Gallagher, John A. Maher, Steven L. Mason, Michael E. McGuire, Anthony J. Mirando, Edward R. Redding, Troy T. Robinson, Joseph J. Ryan, Robert Sauer, Neville Waters, and James A. Williams..

The council was saddened by the death of these Knights: Richard J. Costello, James A. Curran, Leo F. Diegelmann, George W. LeDane, John E. Lynch, Edgar E. Merkle, August J. Nogara, Daniel F. O'Connor, Herman Schulties, Frank V. Spigone (PGK 1976-78), and Harry L. Talbott..

Social activities for the year began with the council picnic at Georgetown Preparatory School on August 24th which attracted 25 members and family members. A foursome of members played golf on the school's course, while other members enjoyed games of catch with baseballs and frisbees. About 15 children took advantage of the indoor swimming pool, and after lunch, the children enjoyed an impromptu jump-rope contest, and watching 80-year-old John Kakos trying the jump-rope..

Several members assisted the Palisades Community Recreation Association as marshals in its annual 4th of July Parade, and members participated in preparation of 990 Pro-Life signs for the Pro-Life March on January 22, 1985..

Thirty-seven members attended the Memorial Mass for deceased members and guests celebrated by Fr. Essex on November 3, and enjoyed a dinner served after. "Our Lady of Perpetual Help" icon devotions were held at the Council Home in October, November, March, and May. Brother Ed Ashe initiated a request, approved by the council, which resulted in a letter from the Grand Knight to Mayor Marion Barry on March 12, 1985 protesting introduction of a sex-oriented nightclub one block from the Council Home. The Council hosted an advisory neighborhood meeting at the Council Home to counter an invasion of the sex-oriented business in the neighborhood. Subsequent to these actions, the Godfather Go-Go Club was closed for violation of the liquor laws following a police raid..

The 88th Anniversary Dance was held on April 27th, at the Council Home. Five hundred dollar scholarships were awarded to Ann Stemmle of St. Ambrose School in Cheverly and Kira Hayes of St. Michael's School in Silver Spring. More than 250 entries were received for the essay contest..

The council's Free-Throw Competition was held December 8th at St. Ann's Gym. Forty-eight children competed. At the State Free-Throw championship competition on March 9, 1995, three first- place winners and two second-place winners were from the Washington Council competition..

The Children's Christmas Party was held on December 16, 1984 at the Council Home, PGK Frank V. Spigone chairing the event in which 45 adults participated. Mr. Hugh Turley, the magician, entertained the children. After the "Guess how Many Candies in the Jar" contest, PGK Charles Taylor played Santa and PGK Vincent P. Spigone was Santa's helper. Every child received a present, and enjoyed a repast of hot dogs, fruit punch, cookies and ice cream..

An Insurance Information program was held on January 22 at which Agent James J. Mulligan offered an excellent program targeted to our senior membership focusing on tax benefits and insuring grandchildren..

The Ladies Day Dinner was held on January 27th and the Italian Dinner and Monte Carlo Night was held on March 9th. PGK Vincent P. Spigone was named knight of the Year and PGK Frank V. Spigone was honored with the Family of the Year Award..

Charles 0. White was appointed Financial Secretary of Washington Council, succeeding PGK Lester krute. There were three first degrees exemplified at the council this year for nine new members, second degrees at Washington, Keane, and Shrine Councils, and the third degree at Byrne Council on June 15th..

On December 12th, as an incentive to encourage the members to sign up new applicants, Tom Moran issued the "Grand Knight's Challenge," namely one bottle of 15-year aged John Jameson Very Special Irish Whiskey to whomever brought in ten new members (later reduced to five) by March 12, 1985. To our knowledge the challenge was not met, and we do not know what happened to the bottle..

In June 1985, the Reginas of Washington Council voted to dissolve their organization, and presented their treasury balance of $454.93 to the Washington Council scholarship fund.

Grand Knight Edmund F. Jones, Sr. (1985-1986)

Grand knight Jones became the second of his family to serve the Council, but this time it was the father following in the footsteps of the son, PGK Edmund F. Jones, Jr. The senior Grand Knight Jones served two years as presiding officer of Washington Council.

The 103rd Supreme Convention was held in Washington, D.C. during the first week of August 1985 at the Shoreham Hotel. PSD John C. Moore was designated chairman of the Program Book, and several members of Washington Council assisted in this endeavor. The D.C. State Council provided a hospitality room at the Shoreham during the convention.

During Grand Knight Jones' first term, the council's social schedule included several events which had attained popularity over the years. The annual scholarship fund raising dance was held on November 30th and was combined with a savings bond raffle. The music was provided by Linzie Trail and there were 136 patrons of the 25th annual scholarship dance in 1985.

A Christmas party was held for the council children and grandchildren.

A first degree was held for three candidates on January 28, 1986 on the day that the astronauts were killed in the shuttle explosion. Another first degree was held on March 11th at the Council Home. The Italian Night was well attended and was followed by an evening of Cinema Horse Races at the Council Home on April 19th.

The annual Memorial Mass for deceased members of the council was celebrated on November 2nd. There were several deaths of council members during this term, including the following: Bernard C. Kiley, Kenneth C. Kippley, John Lane McCarthy, Maurice J. McCarthy, Eugene T. McGuire, Edmund M. O'Sullivan, John E. Pluchino, Joseph F. Robinson, F. Leo Talbott, Ph.D, and Maurice J. Weinberger. Dr. Talbott had attended Catholic University on a Knights of Columbus scholarship, earning his M.A. in physics in 1926.

The 89th Anniversary Dinner was held at the Council Home on April 26th at which the two scholarships were presented to the talented winners of the essay contest. The essay topic this year was "Law and Order," and the winners were Alan Rumsey of St. John Evangelist in Clinton and Stephanie Barrett of Holy Cross in Silver Spring.

Past Grand Knight Vincent P. Spigone reported that Kelly Smokovich who won a council scholarship in 1982 had recently won an American Legion scholarship contest.

Brother Bob Gallagher wrote to inform the council that he was entering a seminary in the Archdiocese of New York to study for the priesthood. It was also reported on April 12th that brother Joseph Ryan was made a Knight of St. Gregory by His Holiness Pope John Paul II.

Grand Knight Jones concluded this first term with a combination Ladies Night and PGK Party at the council. The names of 18 Past Grand Knights are recorded as having attended the party in June 1986.

The council was informed that it had won the Columbian Award and the Father McGivney Award, 1984- 1985.

Grand Knight Edmund F. Jones, Sr. (1986-1987)

Grand Knight Jones was installed for his second term on July 13th at Nativity Church.

The initial social event of the council year was the Crab Feast on September 13th, which made a repeat performance on October 2nd at the Octoberfest. At a council meeting in October, the Grand Knight presented a citation to PGK Stafford Jones in recognition of his continued support over many years of the Knights of Columbus annual retreat at Loyola.

The annual Memorial Mass was celebrated on November 8th with a pot luck dinner served afterwards.

During this year the council mourned the death of brothers Edward Butler, John C. Dermody, Col. John V. Hinkel, Charles F. Malloy, Edwin J. Murray, and Louis F. Zaruba.

Msgr. James A. Magner, chaplain in 1942-43 during the term of PGK Francis (Barney) Myers, invited the council to attend the 60th anniversary of his ordination. Msgr. Magner was residing in Lake Worth, Florida at the time.

The annual scholarship fund raising dance was held in November, and the winners of the scholarship were announced and were presented their awards at the 90th Anniversary Dinner in April.

Grand Knight James P. Murphy (1987-1988)

When Grand Knight Murphy's term began the membership totaled 207 members. The initial social event was a Crab Feast for 70 people on September 26th and presentation of a gift (a meat slicer) to outgoing Grand Knight Ed Jones, Sr.

The First (or admissions) Degree was on September 8th and a second degree on October 28th. The annual Memorial Mass was on November 7th with a pot luck supper, and the annual scholarship dance was on November 28th. Our former chaplain, Fr. Essex, was appointed the pastor of St. Patrick's Church.

The annual Columbus Day ceremony at Union Station's Columbus Plaza included the Ambassador of Spain and a Minister from the Italian Embassy among the dignitaries.

The arrival of December meant it was time for the annual Pound Party for the Little Sisters of the Poor and the Christmas Party for council children.

A key factor in the council winning a Services Program Award this year was our scholarship program which since 1961 had awarded scholarships each year to two Archdiocesan students to enable them to continue their education in a Catholic high school. Initially these awards were $200, an amount set in consultation with the then Msgr. Thomas Lyons, Director of Education for the Archdiocese, who believed that an award of that amount would be enough to get the students started on a Catholic high school education. He suggested that in following years the Archdiocese would ensure that the students' education was funded if the parents were unable to provide the needed funds. With the passing of years, the value of each of the scholarships was increased to $500.

This year the 91st Anniversary Dinner was on April 30th at which the scholarship awards were presented. There were 144 essays received from 17 schools.

The new year was welcomed with the March for Life, and Horse Racing night on January 23rd. Irish members and their guests enjoyed a corned beef and cabbage dinner on March 19th.

Members who passed away in the 1987-88 Council year were: Daniel Callahan, Hugh E. Canton, Paul I. Culotta, PGK Stafford L. Jones, Most Rev. Thomas W. Lyons, His Eminence Patrick Cardinal O'Boyle, Norman C. Schroth, John I. Spreckelmyer, and George A. Wilkinson. Also, Harold Vettel, Past State Deputy, PGK of Keane Council, PFN of Washington Assembly Fourth Degree, and a frequent visitor to Washington Council, died.

The year ended with a third degree on June 11th at Byrne Council and a PGK Night at Washington Council on June 26th.

Grand Knight James P. Murphy (1988-1989)

James Murphy was installed for a second term as Grand Knight on July 17th at Nativity Church in Washington. The initial social event was a Crab Feast featuring Maryland steamed crabs and crab soup which drew 80 members and guests. The Crab Feast drew a similar crowd at its return engagement on September 17th.

A not so well attended but nonetheless an enjoyable social event was an Octoberfest on October 22. This repast served knockwurst, sauerkraut, and German potato salad, topped off with a non dietetic ice cream cheesecake.

The Labor Day Mass was celebrated at the Shrine of the Sacred Heart. The Memorial Mass for deceased members was celebrated at the Council Home on November 5th by Chaplain Msgr. Ramon di Nardo. A pot luck supper was served to members and guests.

In October and again in June, the council arranged for a devotion to the icon of Our Lady of Pochaiv as an expression of admiration and solidarity with members of the Ukranian Catholic Church.

New members were recruited from the local Hispanic community, most of whom were affiliated with diplomatic missions in Washington. These were Jorge Luis Aquino Velloso, Ceferino Valdez Peralta, Ben Filipczyk, and Armando Cesar Arguello.

The Columbus Day Ceremony at Union Station's Columbus Plaza featured the St. John de Matha High School Band and included the laying of wreaths at the statue of Columbus. Wreaths were presented by representatives of the Embassies of Italy, Spain, and Paraguay, and by ten Italian organizations and the Knights of Columbus.

Members who died this year included T. C. Baumgardner, W. Baldwin Buchanan. Charles J. Considine, Carl A. Hesse, William H. Horgan, John P. Kakos, William Kloepfer, R. Adm. Henry G. Moran U.S.N. Ret., Valentino P. Natali, and James F. Slater.

Council members participated in the annual Pound Party in December for the Little Sisters of the Poor at Jeanne Jugan Residence on Harewood Road. The benediction was offered by James Cardinal Hickey.

The 28th annual scholarship fund raising dance was held on November 26th. The essay topic this year was "What Christmas Means to Me." The success of the scholarships was guaranteed largely due to the 133 members and friends who signed up to be patrons in the dinner program. The children's Christmas Party on December 11th featured Bubbles the Clown who kept the children in laughs and merriment. The council Christmas Party was an enjoyable break from the usual program and featured entertainment by eight ladies from Paraguay, a fashion show and native dancing, and Paraguayan carols.

The March for Life on January 23rd started with delivery of fresh cut roses to the President and Vice President and to each member of Congress and the Supreme Court.

The new year was welcomed in January with the Horse Races and Italian Dinner at the Council Home and the Free Throw Competition at St. Ann's Gym. Social life in February included a Wine and Cheese Party, featuring Chilean wines, which was organized by one of the new Hispanic members. In March, on Irish Night, the halls of the Council Home were ringing with traditional Irish music and six step dancers performing their magic. Fr. D'Arcy, a Missionary Priest from Galway, entertained by singing Irish songs.

The 92nd Anniversary celebration and the Wine Tasting Night were disappointments in terms of attendance, but the scholarship awards were gratefully received by the essay contest winners, Elizabeth Audilet of Our Lady of Mercy in Potomac and Simone Gremilhion of St. Bartholomew's in Bethesda. The council's scholarship program received a Supreme Council award.

Degree exemplifications during the year were the second degree on September 28 at Shrine Council, the third degree at St. Josaphat Council, the first degree on March 28th at Washington Council, and the second degree at Byrne Council on April 19th.

The Archbishop's Charity Ball on April 28th was held at Martins Crosswinds in Greenbelt, MD.

This council year concluded with a Crab Feast on June 10th and a Past Grand Knights' party on June 25th. Twelve PGKs were present to witness the presentation of Knight of the Year awards to PGK Lester W. Krute for his work for many years as newsletter editor and in other assignments, and to PGK Frank Jordan and PGK Charles Taylor. The three runner-ups in the essay contest were given $50 bonds. Dagwood style sandwiches were served. Also, PGK Thomas Moran was elected State Secretary at the State Convention in June. The Supreme Council announced that it had approved funding for restoration of the city park surrounding the memorial statue of James Cardinal Gibbons in front of Sacred Heart Church. Cardinal Gibbons had been Archbishop of Baltimore and first Chancellor of the Catholic University of America.

Grand Knight Harry C. Taylor (1989-1990)

Grand Knight John M. Gallagher (1990-1991)

Notwithstanding a poor response which forced cancellation of a Crab Feast in September, Grand Knight Gallagher's enthusiasm and optimism were not dampened. A good representation of Washington Council members attended the Columbus Day Ceremony at which Dr. Christopher Kaufman, Knights of Columbus historian, was the principal speaker. The St. John de Matha Band and Wind Ensemble provided the musical entertainment prior to the ceremonies and speeches at the Columbus statue.

The annual Labor Day Mass was celebrated at the Shrine of the Sacred Heart on September 3rd, and the annual Memorial Mass for deceased Knights on November 3rd at the Council Home. A pot luck dinner was served after the Memorial Mass.

The first major social event of the year was the Octoberfest Party on October 27th at the Council Home. On November 24th the annual scholarship fund raising dinner was held with State Deputy Dr. Edward M. Sullivan as guest speaker. His historical summary of Columbianism in the District was well received. The 140 patrons attending this affair assured the success of the scholarship program again this year. We give thanks to the perennial effort by PGK Bill Brown who chaired this aspect of the fund raising once again. The topic of the essay contest which determined the scholarship winners this year was "Mary."

The first degree was exemplified for five candidates at the Council Home on November 13th. The November 27th council meeting featured a talk by Ed O'Brien of Prince George's Council who also is a member of the Irish American Club. Brother O'Brien is director of the Knock Shrine Association of America and he discussed the Shrine located in County Mayo, Ireland. The evening entertainment also included German music played on the stereo "boom box" presented as a gift to Immediate Past Grand Knight Harry Taylor. The cassette of German folk music was a gift from Msgr. Melville Taylor, Harry's brother.

In December activities included a third degree held at Byrne Council, the annual Pound Party for the Little Sisters of the Poor, and a Christmas party for the children of the council.

Ladies Night on February 24th featured love as the central theme of the tunes selected by singers Christina Pasqual and Loree Capper. Carnations in bud vases and bountiful and tasty food helped make the evening a success.

The second degree was exemplified at Fr. De Porres Council on February 25th and the third degree was held on April 3rd at St. Josaphat's Council. Second degrees were held at Keane Council on May 22nd and at Washington Council on June 24th. The third degree was on June 29th.

The Knights of Columbus participated with its own float in Washington's St. Patrick's Day Parade.

The 94th Anniversary Dinner was on April 20th at which Chaplain Ramon A. di Nardo was the speaker. The scholarship winners were Jeffrey C. Barnes of St. Ambrose in Cheverly and Elizabeth A. Hornyak of St. John the Evangelist in Clinton. Three runner-ups each received a $50 savings bond. Fifty year pins were presented to eight members of the council: William J. Beard, Laurence B. Brown, Joseph H. Cordes, Charles A. Di Giulian, Stephen L. Kowalski, PGK John C. Moore, Henry Alfred Schmitt, and PGK Charles E. Taylor.

The Knights of Columbus was among many groups and individuals who contributed $1 million for construction of a chapel at the Presidential Retreat at Camp David in the Catochin Mountains in Maryland. Supreme Knight Virgil C. Dechant, James Cardinal Hickey of Washington, Archbishop William H. Keeler of Baltimore and other civic and political leaders attended the dedication ceremony. The Knights of Columbus contribution financed the purchase of the chapel's pipe organ.

During Grand Knight Gallagher's term, the council participated in the SHARE program, i.e., Self Help and Resource Exchange, which had begun in San Diego in 1983 as a project of Rev. Mr. Carl Shelton and the Catholic Diocese of San Diego. SHARE was launched in Washington by the D.C. Associated Catholic Charities and the Knights of Malta. For $13 and two hours of community service a participant receives $30 to $35 worth of food. Although designed for lower income persons, everyone was eligible. PSD Maurice DeTiege was host representative for the D.C. Knights of Columbus, and Washington Council's host representative was DGK Bob Payne. Near the end of Grand Knight Gallagher's term, the council had seven persons participating in the program.

The Archbishop's Charity Ball, to benefit the Kennedy Institute, was held on April 26th. At the Charity Ball, brother David Taylor was singled out for special recognition for his fund raising performance in the Tootsie Roll sales campaign. Cardinal James Hickey presented David with a certificate of appreciation from the Kennedy Institute for "his outstanding service and contributions to children and adults with developmental disabilities."

The year concluded on a festive occasion with the Past Grand Knights' party at the Council Home which featured a testimonial for the ever popular Joseph J. Spigone (PGK 1964-65). Entertainment was provided by songstresses Loree Copper and Christina Pasquale who persuaded the members to join in the singing of several popular and patriotic songs. The Knight of the Year Award was given to David A. Taylor for his outstanding performance especially for his work in connection with the Tootsie Roll Campaign. Award certificates were presented to seven deserving members; Rev. Msgr. Ramon A. di Nardo, DGK Robert D. Payne, PGK Charles E. Taylor, PGK Harry C. Taylor, Austin M. Waldron, and Michael C. Sommer.

During this council year, the following members passed away; Anthony Anzelmo, Francis L. Coyle, G. Francis Daw, Msgr. Joseph F. Denges (Chaplain, 1928-33), Richard Eaton, Albert A. Firster, John J. Higgins, Andrew L. O'Connell, and Dr. Ralph F. Patten.

Grand Knight Robert D. Payne III (1991-1992)

Grand Knight Robert D. Payne III and his fellow officers were installed in office on July 14th at the Crypt Church of the Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, together with the State Council officers and officers of the other councils. A reception was held in the courtyard of Archbishop Carroll High School. A training session was conducted the previous day by the State Council for all new officers, membership and program directors, service directors, and committee chairmen. Council membership was reported to be 189 at the start of this term.

Michael C. Sommer was appointed Financial Secretary by the Supreme Council, succeeding Charles 0. White. The State Council notified all councils of a policy adopted at its June 3, 1991 convention which prohibited the rental of K. of C. facilities to any group promoting pro choice or pro abortion positions, any group promoting active homosexual behavior, and any religious group set up in opposition to or as a breakaway from the Catholic Church.

The Columbus Day ceremony was special this year because it was the start of the Quincentennial Year observance of the discovery of America by Christopher Columbus. Mass was celebrated at the Shrine of the Immaculate Conception and at Holy Rosary Church, and the National Park Service sponsored a three-day Cultural Festival as a tribute to the cultural diversity of the New World. The guest speaker was Attorney General William Barr. This Quincentennial Year observance also featured an essay contest on "Christopher Columbus; Role Model for Today's Youth."

The 30th annual scholarship fund raising dance was held on November 24th, and the council supported the Pound Party for the Little Sisters of the Poor in December. A third degree was exemplified at St. Cyprian Council at Holy Comforter Church on December 7th. The annual Christmas Party was the highlight of the December 10th meeting, and PGK Jim Murphy was announced as the winner of the summer pool tournament which was a new activity held on the third Sunday of each month.

Ladies Night was held at the Council Home on February 8th, and a classic Irish boiled dinner was served at the Council Home on March 14th to 31 attendees who although small in number were high in spirits. A Young Adults Social, or Spring Fling, was a "smashing success" on April 25th. The 95th Anniversary Dinner on May 1st featured presentation of the scholarship award to Emilie Dixon. The first degree was conferred upon four candidates at the Council Home on May 12th.

PGK Lester Krute, editor for many years of the Washington Council Monthly and the successor Washington Council Newsletter, resigned reluctantly from this position because of deteriorating health. Later the Grand Knight announced that the Council Newsletter, started in 1975 to replace the Washington Council Monthly, would henceforth be published on a bimonthly basis.

Members were saddened by the death this year of brothers Frederick J. Haas and PGK Lester W. Krute. On June 1, 1992 the long time treasurer of Washington Council Home, inc., PGK Frank Law, announced that we now owned the Council Home because the first trust was paid in full.

Grand Knight Robert D. Payne, III(1992-1993)

Grand Knight Payne's second term was launched on July 11th with a picnic at Bob Lacey's home. The membership stood at 137 dues paying members and a total of 215 members.

The Columbus Day Ceremony was a two-day event October 11 and 12, and first and second degrees were exemplified in October. At the October 13th meeting, Ms. Nancy Christopher, a reading tutor, was the guest speaker.

The Memorial Mass was celebrated by our chaplain, Msgr. Ramon di Nardo on November 7th, and the annual scholarship fund raising dance was on November 21st. On a motion by Bob Lacey on December 8, 1992, the council approved the purchase of a computer, a VCR and a new telephone.

A Crab Feast scheduled for January 26th had to be canceled. Irish Night was celebrated with corned beef and cabbage on March 27th.

The 96th Anniversary dance was postponed until June and was combined with the PGK Party. Altar server awards were presented in June at Blessed Sacrament, Annunciation, Our Lady of Victory, and Holy Trinity.

Other degree exernplifications this year were a third degree on December 4th at Shrine Council, a first on December 15th at Keane Council, a second on February 10th, and a first on May 11th for four candidates of Washington Council.

Members who died this term included James Cunningham, Martin I. Ryan (PGK 1959-60 and PSD 1981-83), John Schmidt, Regis B. Shiner, and Harry C. Taylor (PGK 1970-71 and 1989-90).

Grand Knight John Paul Jones (1993-1994)

Grand Knight John Paul Jones was the third of the Jones family to lead the council, having been preceded by his brother and his father in the decade of the 1980's. He and his team of officers were installed in office by District Deputy Harry Jackson at the meeting of September 14th. At the same meeting, the Grand Knight presented a $1,400 check to PGK/PSD John Moore, chairman of the Kennedy Institute fund raising committee. This amount represented the sales from the Tootsie Roll campaign last year.

The Memorial Mass was held on November followed by a pot luck dinner. The Pound Party for the Little Sisters of the Poor was the usual first weekend in December.

The scholarship fund raising dance at the Council Home was on December 4th. On a motion by PGK Edmund Jones, Sr. on November 23rd, the council agreed to give only one scholarship this year. The annual Christmas party for the members was on December 14th.

The council hosted a Shrimp Feast on January 15th and a St. Patrick's Day dinner of corned beef and cabbage.

The 97th Anniversary Dinner scheduled for April 23rd had to be canceled for lack of sufficient reservations. The Past Grand Knight and Ladies Night party was held on June 25th.

A new council was formed at St. Dominic's Church in southwest, Cardinal Patrick O'Boyle Council. Washington Council mourned the death this year of brothers John Brett, Paul Donovan. George O'Rourke, Joseph G. McGowan (PGK 1952-53 and PFN), and Joseph J. Spigone (PGK 1964-65). At the end of this term, the council membership count was 187.

Grand Knight Mark Brockway (1994)

Mark Brockway was elected Grand Knight and presided at the July 12th meeting. At the August 9th meeting, he turned the meeting over to Deputy Grand Knight David Taylor. Grand Knight Brockway resigned on October 25th, citing severe back problems which required medical care and therapy and which restricted his activities. Deputy Grand Knight Taylor served as Acting Grand Knight until his election as Grand Knight on December 13th. At that time, Harold Watson was elected Deputy Grand Knight and Bryan Madigan was elected Chancellor.

It also should be noted that at the start of this term, PGK Robert D. Payne III became the newly appointed Financial Secretary, succeeding Michael C. Sommer.

Grand Knight David A. Taylor (1994-1995)

David Taylor had to learn the Grand Knight's job quickly and on-the-Job. The second and third degrees were exemplified in September, the latter at St. Josaphat Council. The Columbus Day observance was on October 9th at Columbus Plaza.

A Young Adults Halloween Dance on October 29th with a "D.J." enjoyed a good turnout according to Chancellor Harold Watson who made the arrangements for the dance.

Twenty-five people attended the annual Memorial Mass and pot luck dinner on November 5th. The officers were installed on December 13th at the same time David Taylor was elected Grand Knight.

The Grand Knight presented a $1,086 check to PGK/PSD John C. Moore for the Kennedy Institute. The proceeds were derived from the Tootsie Roll Campaign which was one of the first activities handled by the Grand Knight after becoming a Knight and which during his term was chaired by his father, PGK Charles Taylor.

The Pound Party for the Little Sisters of the Poor emphasized the needs of the Sisters and their plans to expand their facilities. Forty people attended the annual council Christmas party.

A repeat Young Peoples Mexican Night Dance was held on March 18th, and a motion to ban smoking in the Council chamber was approved in April.

The 98th Anniversary Dinner was held on April 22nd and the annual Archbishop's Charity Ball was held on April 29th at the Bethesda Holiday Inn. Also in April, the first or admissions degree was exemplified and the Financial Secretary reported that five members had transferred to the new Our Lady of Victory Council. There had been some discussion recently about the adverse impact the newer parish oriented councils might have on Washington Council.

Ladies Night was celebrated on May 13th and Grand Knight Taylor was reelected to a second full term. The year concluded with the PGK Party on June 25th which was billed as a coat and tie affair for purpose of taking a group photo of the "old timers."

Brother Knights who died during this term were H. Donald DeVol (PFN, Washington Assembly Fourth Degree) and Walter McCardle.

The Knight of the Year award was presented to David Poore, council Advocate and Program Chairman.

Grand Knight David A. Taylor (1995-1996)

Grand Knight Taylor was installed at the Crypt Church of the Shrine of the Immaculate Conception on July 15th. At the beginning of his term, the membership stood at 188 members. Rev. David Beaubien of St. Ann's parish was appointed as our new chaplain.

One of Grand Knight Taylor's initial actions was to get the ball rolling to plan the Centennial Celebration of Washington Council and of Columbianism in the District of Columbia. PGK/PSD John C. Moore accepted the assignment as general chairman of the Centennial Anniversary Steering Committee. A questionnaire was prepared and mailed to council members soliciting their comments on what events they would be willing to support and inviting them to volunteer to help plan and work on the centennial events.

A Young Adults Party with DJ Mo Flynn was held in the Council Home on September 23rd. Also in September the second degree and the third degree were exemplified, respectively, at Catholic University and at St. Josaphat Council.

An Open House for prospective members was on October 22nd at the Council Home. Harold Watson resigned as Deputy Grand Knight. He had chaired the effort to institute young adult dances which brought many young people to the council home.

The annual Memorial Mass on November 18th was celebrated jointly with Alcantara Caravan No. 12 and was celebrated by our new chaplain, Rev. Beaubien. The first or admissions degree was exemplified on November 28th at Washington Council by the Council team.

The Little Sisters of the Poor again enjoyed the support of the Knights of Columbus at their annual Pound Party on December 3rd. Newer members, and perhaps some of the older members, probably do not know the origin of the term "pound party." Its genesis is from the early days when the Little Sisters had an annual party to which benefactors were asked to bring a pound of food for the residents of their home for the aged.

The council Christmas party was on December 12th. Other events on the calendar for this term included a second degree on February 14th at Washington Council and a Free Throw Contest at St. Ann's Gym on February 25th.

The primary tenant in the Council Home building, Weickert Realtors, agreed to a lease of the basement level offices as well as the street level offices it has occupied for 25 years. As this final quarter century draws to a close, it is appropriate to note that not only have the two trusts been fully paid, but several major repairs have been completed during the past seven years. These included siding work on the rear wall, repaving of the parking lot, replacing the roof, replacing the air conditioner chilling unit and condensing unit, and replacing venetian blinds in the building. The council is indebted to many who have served on the board of trustees of Washington Council Home, Inc., but none more than PGK Frank Law who has been the Council Home treasurer since 1970.

The major event of this year was the Centennial Anniversary Kickoff Dinner on May 19, 1996 at the Kennedy Warren Hotel on Connecticut Avenue in Washington. The celebration included an open bar followed by dinner. G.K. David Taylor asked the more than 80 in attendance to recognize the 100th Anniversary Committee and Fr. David Beaubien, council chaplain, offered the invocation. This was followed by a toast by chairman John Moore to the late Bernard Bridget, first Grand Knight of the council, and all his successors. John Moore then led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag, to which he added at the end the words "born and unborn" to remind those present of the Knight's commitment to pro life activities.

Following dinner, the audience was entertained by the big band sound of J. Roland Cumberland and his orchestra and their Singing Cedars. This 15-man band and 11 man choir delighted the crowd with renditions of Night and Day, You Are the One, Kick Out of You, One of Those Things, Shine on Harvest Moon, Let Me Call You Sweetheart, a medley from the Sound of Music, and another medley of Oscar winning songs including Lullaby of Broadway, Thanks for the Memories, Zippity Doo Daa, Many a Splendored Thing, Born Free, and Coming Up Roses. The evening concluded with a collection of patriotic favorites, including Grand Old Flag, Proud to be an American, God Bless America, and the hymns of the military branches, i.e., Army, Navy, Marine Corps, and Air Force.

The first of two guest speakers was Timothy J. Meagher, Archivist of the Catholic University, whose topic "The Catholic University and Washington Council" reminded us that the Knights and the Catholic University were born in 1881 and 1892, respectively, and that many speakers at Washington Council meetings in past years were faculty members of C.U.A. and that the university's physical facilities were used by the council including a soft ball contest between Washington and Keane councils. Mr. Meagher noted that Knights were proud to be both American and Catholic.

The second speaker was Carl A. Anderson, State Deputy of the District of Columbia, who presented a resolution adopted by the State Council noting that Columbianism began with the establishment of Washington Council 224 whose members were present at the establishment of St. Ann's Church, the opening of the Franciscan Monastery, and Admiral Dewey's victory parade. He observed that President Taft once addressed a council meeting. 1-fe concluded by remarking on the legacy and standards set in the opening decades of the council and appealed to us to make the same kind of commitment to Columbianism as did first Grand Knight Bernard Bridget and the others in his class.

The Opening Centennial celebration concluded with closing remarks by chairman Moore and benediction by the chaplain.

During OK David Taylor's two terms he recognized two members for their distinguished service to the council, Charles DiGiulian and Msgr. Ramon di Nardo. Also the council newsletter was reactivated and took on a new and more attractive appearance in his second term.

The only death found recorded in the minutes to have occurred was that of brother Basal Syms. As of January 1996, the total membership of Washington Council was 181 members.