As this fraternal year comes to a close, I reflect on all our council has accomplished. This year was a year of firsts. To begin with, this was the first year we have started and maintained a scholarship program. We developed guidelines, started accumulating funds, and will award a scholarship to the first recipient soon.

     This is also the first year we went world wide (via the Internet). We published upcoming events, cover activities, and even have a section devoted to pictures showing the commitment of our Brother Knights.

     Our fund raising also has taken on new avenues. This was the first year we were involved with the San Antonio's Cinco de Mayo celebration. This was a great fund raising experience, and I hope to see it grow in the years to come.

     I would like to thank all the Brother Knights who helped make all these first possible. Without the help of these dedicated individuals, we would not have been able to make these projects a reality. I would also like to thank our officers and program directors. These men have stepped up to the plate time and time again and have taken on their share of hard work in order to get the job done. Their dedication, leadership, and giving of one's self sets the example of why we have chosen to be Knights of Columbus.

     Lastly, I would like to wish the next Advocate success as we enter into a new fraternal year. With his help and guidance, we will have another great year of firsts.

     Can you honestly think of a reason why your practicing fellow Catholic should not be a Knight of Columbus? The Knights represents involvement, compassion, and a dedication to our religious beliefs. We support our priests, the right to life, and helping those who are less fortunate.

     Knights come in all different shapes, sizes, colors, and walks of life. But they all have the same thing in common: Charity, Unity, Fraternity and Patriotism. These ideals are the basis on which our organization was founded on over hundred years ago.

     Maybe instead of trying to think of a reason why your fellow Catholic should not be a Knight, think of all the reasons why he should be one. All it takes is a desire to serve, and a Form 100. Contact me through this Web site for details, or see me after our next General Meeting.

     Most men worry about their families. If you are like most, there are so many demands on you current income that you find it difficult to set anything aside for the kind of future you'd like to provide. If you are like most fathers, you probably want the same things:

• the respect of your family, your friends and the community in which you live
• a happy home with a family that is content
• a good house that will always be home
• the ability to help your children with their education
• enough money to make you retirement easier
• and enough money to be able to enjoy some of the better things in life.

     One of the things you can buy, and still retain your equity if you have to default on payments, is cash value life insurance.

     Cash value life insurance means money for future needs. It can be purchased on the installment plan and come back in the form of cash to you or your family when it's needed most.

     Call me so we can talk about money for your future.