ABBOT VINCENT G. TAYLOR ASSEMBLY
ASSEMBLY NUMBER 779
GREENSBORO, NC
Although founded in 1904, it was another 40 years before there’s any mention of Fourth Degree Knights appearing in Greensboro. The first reference comes in a letter from Bishop McGuiness to Father Dolan requesting the presence of Sir Knights for Midnight Mass at St. Benedict’s Church in 1944.
Fourth Degree Knights from Raleigh and others who had moved to Greensboro formed the first Honor Guard to participate in a local church.
By 1948 the “Piedmont Local Assembly #939 Fourth Degree” was established in Greensboro. Three Sir Knights; PGK & SK Peter B. Joseph, PGK & SK Paul Nobert, and PGK & SK J. Harry Pelton played instrumental roles in establishing Greensboro’s Assembly.
The Assembly included members from Burlington, High Point and other outlining areas. The following Sir Knights served as Faithful Navigators:
1948-49 Peter D. Joseph
1949-50 J. Harry Pelton
1950-51 Andrew J. Fitzpatrick
1951-52 Andrew J. Fitzpatrick
1952-53 Harry J. Kelly
1953-54 Harry J. Kelly
1954-55 L. Paul Nobert
1955-56 Frank A. Murphy
1956-57 Joseph T. Shea
1957-58 Joseph T. Shea
1958-59 L. Paul Nobert
1959-60 L. Paul Nobert
1960-61 Dr. Francis X. BerryFather Vincent G. Taylor, a well-liked priest at St. Benedict’s Church, was a good friend of the Knights. He served the Parish from 1902 to1924.
In 1924 Father Taylor was elected the second Abbot of Belmont. Abbot Vincent G. Taylor became head of the Abbot Nullius, which comprised a diocese of eight counties in western North Carolina. He was responsible for all properties, personnel, and religious communities in his jurisdiction.
Archbishop Michael Conley of Baltimore installed him at Belmont. He served at the Abbey until his death in 1959 of a heart attack, while in Greensboro.
In 1961 the Assembly name was changed to “Abbot Vincent G. Taylor General Assembly” in honor of this wonderful and devoted priest. The Sir Knights who served as Faithful Navigators after this name change were:
1961-62 John J. McGovern
1962-63 Sal R. Festa
1963-64 Raymond E. Benston
1964-65 John G. Redmond
1966-67 Raymond E. Benston
1967-68 William E. Chestnutt, Sr.
1968-69 David R. Jackson
1969-70 David R. Jackson
1970-71 William A. Ries
1971-72 William A. Ries
1972-73 William A. Ries
1973-74 Edward S. Finch
1974-75 James P. Patton, Jr.
1975-76 Joseph J. Albanese
1976-77 John J. Marsicano
1976-77 Arthur F. Plocki
1978-79 John Queenan
1979-80 Joseph K. Hughes
1980-81 Dr. Daniel J. Sullivan
1980-82 Richard E. Miller
1982-83 Francis A. WitkowskiIn 1983 the Assembly name was changed to “Abbot Vincent G. Taylor Assembly” eliminating the “General” from its name. The Sir Knights who served as Faithful Navigators after this name change were:
1983-84 Thomas J. Cullen
1984-85 Nick A. LaValle
1985-86 James G. Green, Sr.
1986-87 William Sprague
1987-88 Walter P. Mydlow
1988-89 William J. Schlosser
1989-90 Joseph A. Scutti
1990-91 Robert A. Tarantelli
1991-92 Francis N. Kinlaw
1992-93 Eugene K. Fahy, Sr.
1993-94 Howard R. Brink
1994-95 Howard R. Brink
1995-96 John F. Lyle
1996-97 Lawrence J. D’Amelio
1997-98 George Stratton
1998-00 Patrick J. Kirwan
2000-01 Adam J. Lichota
2001-02 William Taylor
2002-03 Robert J. Grabasky
2003-04 Joseph J. VanKuikenEarly business meetings of the Fourth Degree were held at the Third Degree meeting facilities in Greensboro, High Point or Burlington. After 1983, when more members of the Assembly were from Greensboro, the business meetings met mostly at K of C Council 939 facilities. These meetings often had guest speakers. Patriotic programs included Honor Guard attendance at the Memorial Day Ceremony at Forest Lawn Cemetery and Citizenship Awards in schools in Greensboro, Burlington and High Point.
At some Fourth Degree Exemplifications the Honor Guard would march from the old O’Henry Hotel at Elm and Bellemeade Street to St. Benedict Church at Elm and Smith Streets. It’s been a tradition since that first request by Bishop McGuiness in 1944 for the Honor Guard to participate at Midnight Mass.
Currently the Honor Guard is present at Midnight Mass at St.Benedict’s, Our Lady of Grace, St. Mary’s and St. Pius the X.
Many social events and some business meetings were held at some of the following places:
The Log Cabin Sedgefield
McClures Steak House Summit Ave.
Embassy Club Sedgefield
Red Carpet Room (Howard Johnson’s) I-85 at Osburn Rd.
Pleasants Club Friendly Ave.
Plantation Supper Club High Point Rd. & Holden Rd.
Green’s Supper Club Rte. 29N
O’Henry Hotel Elm & Bellemeade Sts.
King Cotton Hotel E. Market & Davie Sts.
Sheraton Motor Inn So. Elm St. & I-85
Holiday Inn 16th St. & Rte. 29N
Jefferson Club New Garden Road
The Barn Dinner Theater Stage Coach Trail
Ramada Inn So. Elm St. & I-85
Elks Club Cornwallis Dr.
Swain’s Charcoal Steak House 510 Farragut St.
Hilton Hotel Market & Wilson Sts.
Royal Villa Meadowview Rd
Embassy Suites I-40 & Hwy. 68
In 2000 the Fourth Order celebrated its Centennial Anniversary. The Fourth Degree Assemblies of Greensboro, Burlington, High Point, Kernersville and Winston-Salem participated in a Mass at Our Lady of Grace Church in Greensboro with Bishop William Curlin presiding.
The Honor Guard also participated in the Mass with approximately 50 Sir Knights in full regalia. All other Sir Knights wore tuxedoes and Social Baldrics. After the Church service 225 people attended a cocktail party and banquet at the Embassy Suites near the airport in Greensboro.
Today the Assembly has a business meeting each month and the patriotic program consists of the following:
February A patriotic dinner dance, at which an American hero is honored.
May Memorial Day Ceremony in conjunction with the American Legion
Post #53 at Forest Lawn Cemetery.
Student Citizenship Awards (OLG & St. Pius)
June Flag Day Ceremony with collection of old flags, burning of those
flags, and a social following the ceremony.
November Veteran’s Day Parade in High Point
December Christmas Parade - Greensboro and Graham
ASSEMBLY NUMBER 780
CHARLOTTE, NC
Charlotte Assembly Number 780 was formed in 1923 as part of Council 770 and was named as Charlotte 770 Fourth Degree Knights of Columbus until 1975 when it was named as Assembly NC-0780. Charlotte Fourth Degree Assembly NC-0780 was the 3rd to be formed in North Carolina. The State Economy was still based on textile and tobacco industries at the time and this was the depression times between the World Wars. The state was nearly all Baptists and the Knights of Columbus were not popular and often confused with the KKK. St. Peter's Catholic Church was the center of Catholic Life in Charlotte during that time.
The activities of Assembly 780 centered around the Third Degree Knights of Columbus Council 770. Under the leadership of the First Faithful Navigator, M.I. Benner, the activities were in the old army hut from Camp Green, behind St. Peters Church in the center of Charlotte until 1929. In 1928, a home was purchased and converted to a Club House on West Seventh Street. A Club house was built on a tract of 140 acres near Mint Hill from 1953 to 1971. The present brick Club House for 770 and 780 is on East Kingston Avenue. This was built in 1971 and has been the center of Assembly 780's activities for over the past 30 years.
Assembly 780 Knights continued to promote patriotism throughout the years. The Honor Guard was quite active and by 1953, it numbered over 30 at the fifty years anniversary celebration of Council 770. It helped in the formation of two Charlotte and surrounding area Assemblies 2208 and 2531. The Knights of Columbus from 780 and surrounding areas lead the annual St. Patrick's Day Parade every year in Charlotte, which starts at St. Peters Catholic Church and marches down the main street (Trade) of Charlotte. The Priest blesses the parade to start the procession each year and in 2002 we had over 50 knights in Regalia and a 40 foot float filled with Knights and Families of the Knights of Columbus. Since Bishop Bagley of Charlotte and Bishop Curlin took his place as his home in Charlotte, we are constantly called to honor the activities of the Bishop in dedications, honoring the unborn, Baptisms, Weddings, Funerals and opening Catholic Churches, Schools and any event the Bishop requests for our presence in Regalia. The latest was a celebration of the Chinese New Year for the new Vietnamese Catholic Church, in which Bishop Curlin was the guest of honor. In addition, the City of Charlotte has an annual Patriotic Day, honoring the veterans and celebrated citizens. The Knights of Columbus from 780 always participate in Regalia to show their faithful patriotic spirit to the city of Charlotte.
The Charter Members for Council 780 in 1923 were lead by the 35 Knights of 770 and the first Faithful Navigator, M.I Brenner. They expanded rapidly in Charlotte and became very active in the North Carolina State Officers and Activities. The expansion of the Fourth Degree Organizations in to Western North Carolina was recognized on August 19, 1973, when the Supreme Master, Daniel Coruet, established a General Assembly (similar to a Regional Fourth Degree Organization) with the Fourth Degree Councils of 770, Charlotte and 6451, Hickory. This new assembly was named the Charlotte General Assembly. The Fourth Degree Council's of Western North Carolina continue to have continued to hold joint activities, Honor Guards and Initiation of officers throughout the years. In November, 1988, the Faithful Navigator, Ed Comiskey, initiated a name change to the present George L. Gettier Assembly NC-0780. George L. Gettier was an inspiration to the Assembly for years and because of his memory and his efforts in personally invigorating the Assembly NC-0780 after the World War II, the Assembly has honored his memory.
The Past Faithful Navigators are as follows: M.I. Brenner (1922-23), R.H. Johnston (1923-24), Thomas E. Rea (1924-26), James Montague (1926-27), George T. Carey, Sr. (1927-29), C.F. Linthicum (1929-31), Charles F. McCollum (1931-32), Dennis Dunn (1932-34), Herman J. Hoose (1934-36), Edward H. Cannon (1936-38), Thomas Rea (1938-40), A.L. Lacy (1940-42), Robert M. Skurla (1942-44), George L. Gettier (1944-47), D.J. Dunn (1947-50), L. Minnick (1950-51), J. Bernard Eck (1951-52), J.L. Spencer (1952-53), William B. Rea (1953-54), L.H. Phelan (1954-55), J.N. Kerns (1955-56), J.L. Smith (1956-58), C.J. Holtshulte (1958-60), George E. Lund Jr. (1960-62), Ernest R. Vaillancout (1962-64), Charles J. Babula (1964-66), Michael J. Mitchell (1966-68), J.E. Fairley (1968-70), John Balas (1970-72), George Balog (1972-74), Daniel F. Balls Jr. (1974-76), Bob Keller (1976-78), Joseph J. Hunt (1978-80), Richard C. Grebner (1980-81), Roscoe P. Simpson (1981-82), Harold J. Sheppard (1982-84), Joseph P. Gotta (1984-85), George M. Kutcher (1986-88), Edward F. Comiskey (1988-89), Wallace J. Mason (1989-90), Leander B. Reinhardt (1990-91), Arthur A. Turner (1991-1992), Robert Wilusz (1992-93), James Steven Nass (1993-94), Edwin D. Childers (1994-96), William L. McKenna (1996-98), Charles B. Bowling (1998-2000), William A. Phieffer (2000-01), Clarence W. Lear (2001-2003).
The Current Officers of Assembly 780 are: Faithful Navigator - Clarence Lear, Faithful Friar - Father Richard Hansen, Faithful Captain -Ray Maxson, Faithful Admiral - William Phieffer, Faithful Comptroller - Randall Vaca, Faithful Pilot - Jerry Kolb, Faithful Purser - Jeffrery Boyle, Faithful Scribe - Bob Wilusz, Inner Sentinel - Robert Geyer, Outer Sentinel - Joe Slonecki, Trustees- Joe Kenney, William McKenna, C.J. Wigger, Honor Guard Commander - Robert Wilcocks.
ASSEMBLY NUMBER 781
ASHEVILLE, NC
St. Lawrence Assembly came into being in 1946 (exact date to be ascertained) and has met since that time at St. Lawrence Church Basement in Asheville, NC. The Assembly has always had an active Honor Guard and continues to do so. Their quarterly dinner meetings have excellent turnout of members and thanks goes to Msgr. J. McSweeney for his involvement in keeping this Assembly going in a forward direction during difficult times.
Since St. Eugene Council Number 11911 came into being in the area they are acting as a farm system in supplying new members to the Assembly. Hendersonville Assembly Number 2130 and Arden Assembly 2274 have spun off St. Lawrence Assembly in recent years.
The Charter officers` of this Assembly were:
Faithful Navigator Fleming Browne, Sr.
Faithful Friar Father A.F. Rohrbacker
Faithful Comptroller N. P. Mulvaey
Faithful Admiral Henry h. Shigley
Faithful Captain H. Cain
Faithful Inner Sentinel Bernard G. Ferrey
Faithful Outer Sentinel Lawson H. Bryan Sr.The current Faithful Navigator is Sir Knight Robert F. Sawinski and the Faithful Comptroller is Sir Knight Ruperto H. Muana.
ASSEMBLY NUMBER 1541
JACKSONVILLE, NC
Senator Albert J. Ellis Assembly was established on August 17, 1970 under Master John J. Norkas. This Assembly was formed from Councils 1074 Wilmington; 3303 New Bern and 3574 Jacksonville. Later on councils 7024 Swansboro and 8143 Morehead City became active. As time went on three new Assembles were formed from Senator Albert J. Ellis Assembly. They were Rev. Father Kenneth Parker Assembly 1820 in New Bern; Msgr. Christopher Dennen Assembly 2017 Assembly in Wilmington and Crystal Coast Assembly 2220 in Morehead City.
The founding officers of this Assembly were:
Faithful Navigator Robert R. Foran
Faithful Friar Rev. Father Raymond Donohue
Faithful Captain Warren J. Haines, Sr.
Faithful Comptroller Joseph P. Normandeau
Faithful Pilot August S. Klein
Faithful Admiral Joseph J. Stoffa
Faithful Scribe Duane A. RussellWhen first organized this Assembly would have their meetings at the homes of members. In the recent past they meet at Jacksonville Fisherman's Wharf on the 3rd Sunday of the month.
Senator Albert J. Ellis, the namesake for this council, was born in New Bern, North Carolina in 1913. He attended New Bern Elementary and High Schools and obtained his law degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He was very active in local civil affairs and was the first President of the Jacksonville United Service Organization in 1942. He was only President of the Jacksonville Kiwanis Club, Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce, Onslow County Historical Society, a member of the Knights of Columbus Council 3574, member of Moose Lodge 1438 and a member of American Legion Post 265. He served in the U. S. Army during World War II.
During 1967 through 1969 Albert J. Ellis served two terms in the North Carolina Senate and died in office in 1969 at the age of 56. The Jacksonville, NC airport is named after Senator Ellis as is a street in Jacksonville, Ellis Blvd. The Library at St. Francis of Assisi School bears his name. An Exemplification of the Fourth Degree was held in Senator Ellis' honor for 52 Sir Knights. This was one month before his death on December 15, 1969.
The current Faithful Navigator is SK Paul Fiorello and the current Faithful Comptroller is SK. Felix Malewich.
ASSEMBLY NUMBER 1820
NEW BERN, NC
Separating from the Senator Albert J. Ellis Assembly #1541 Jacksonville, NC, the Fr. Kenneth I. Parker Assembly was chartered on April 18, 1980 under District Master Harry W. Clody.
The Assembly originally drew its membership from seven councils - Council #3303 New Bern, Council #4464 Kinston, Council #6600 Greenville, Council #6648 Havelock, Council #7547 Elizabeth City, Council #8759 Kill Devil Hills and Council #9364 Washington.
On May 2, 1982, the Coastal Plains Assembly #1899 in Wilson, NC was chartered and consisted of Council #4660 Wilson, Council #5487 Goldsboro, Council #6600 Greenville and Council #4600 Rocky Mount. This new Assembly brought the Fr. Parker Assembly down to six councils assigned. On April 8, 1995, the Fr. Stanley Grubitz Assembly #2379 in Elizabeth City, NC was chartered and consisted of Council #7547 Elizabeth City and Council #8759 Kill Devil Hills. This new Assembly brought the Fr. Parker Assembly down to four councils assigned. On April 13, 2005, Council #6648 Havelock established its own Assembly and further reduced the size of the Fr. Parker Assembly. This new Assembly was named after SK Angelo Battista, a charter member of this Assembly and Past Grand Knight of the Havelock Council.
One of the biggest accomplishment of the Fr. Parker Assembly happened on Sunday, June 9, 2001 when the Assembly hosted a one day exemplification of the Fourth Degree in their facilities. This degree consisted of forty-six candidates representing eight different councils from Eastern North Carolina. The degree honoree was Sir Knight Donato (Danny) J. Gennantonio, Jr. of the Fr. Parker Assembly. Sir Knight Danny is a Past Grand Knight of Council #3303 New Bern and a Past Faithful Navigator of the Fr. Parker Assembly.
The Assembly’s Friar, Msgr. James R. Jones, also received special honor by being selected as the degree honoree for the 1991 Fourth Degree Exemplification held in Greensboro, NC.
The Assembly has been acknowledged for their achievement and received the “Distinguished Service Award” for the fraternal years of 1983-84, 1987-88, 1993-94, 1994-95. The Assembly also received the “To Be A Patriot Award” for the fraternal years of 1998-99 and 1999-2000. Further honors include the “Civic Award” for the fraternal years of 1997-1998, 2000-01, 2001-02 and 2003-04.
On Memorial Day in May of each year, the Assembly has a Mass for all deceased veterans at St. Paul's Church. After the Mass, the Honor Guard marches with at least 12 members in regalia to the church cemetery where the priest blesses over 90 graves of veterans as Sir Knights place flags on each grave. The Honor Guard, along with other members of the Assembly, also participate at a special service at the local National Cemetery in honor of our veterans. This is a very high honor for the Assembly as they get much media exposure and there are approximately 500 people in attendance and three TV stations broadcast the event. This event is by invitation only and the Fr. Kenneth I. Parker Assembly is the only non-military service organization invited to participate.
Charter Officers of Fr. Kenneth I. Parker Assembly Fraternal Year 1980 – 1981
Faithful Friar - SK Msgr. James R. Jones; Faithful Navigator - SK Ralph H. Provost
Faithful Admiral - SK James McGrath; Faithful Captain - SK Angelo Battista
Faithful Pilot - SK George Burgess; Faithful Scribe - SK Joseph Rachid
Faithful Comptroller - SK Joseph Hatem; Faithful Purser - SK Edward J. Stein
Faithful I. Sentinel - SK Robert McSorley; Faithful O. Sentinel - SK William LongFaithful Trustees #1 - SK Robin Dubois; #2 - SK Richard Golec; #3 - SK William Rake
Faithful Navigators of Fr. Kenneth I. Parker Assembly
SK Ralph H. Provost; SK William R. Pake; SK Edward J. Stein; SK Pasquale A. Wojciechowski
SK Joseph M. Rachid; SK Donald W. Monk; SK Robert P. Natella; SK Leo G. Valerien
SK Robert F. Farrell; SK John Barnick; SK Danny J. Gennantonio; SK Edmund J. Kutsko
SK Joseph D. Sbarra; SK T. Clark French; SK Gregory R. Ciesielski
Faithful Friars of Fr. Kenneth I. Parker Assembly - SK Msgr. James R. Jones 1980 - presentColor Corps Commanders of Fr. Kenneth I. Parker Assembly
SK Robert McSorley 1980 - 1984; SK Leo G. Valerien 1984 - 1994; SK John C. Derler 1994 - 1999
SK Gregory R. Ciesielski 1999 - 2004; SK Donald W. Monk, PFN 2004 -
ASSEMBLY NUMBER 1828
HIGH POINT, NC
The Father Robert J. MacMillan Assembly Number 1828 was formed on August 18, 1980. Former District Deputy and Past Faithful Navigator Joe Varipapa and Past Faithful Al Ghosn organized the formation of this Assembly which split off from Abbot Vincent Taylor Assembly in Greensboro. Sir Knight Joe Albenese was the District Master when the Assembly was formed. When the council was initiated they met at Immaculate Heart of Mary or Our Lady of the Highways Church. They now meet at the Immaculate Heart of Mary School in High Point.
The Assembly is proud of their activities through the years. Since 1982 the Assembly as presented a Citizenship Award to an outstanding graduate of the Immaculate Heart of Mary School.
The Assembly as grown to include councils in Salisbury, Davidson County and Asheboro. In 1995 the Supreme Board of Directors appointed Jim Neely, charter member and Past State Deputy, as Vice Supreme Master of the DeSoto Province.
Since 1981 the Assembly honors wives and widows at an annual Christmas party.
CHARTER OFFICERS
Faithful Navigator Al Ghosn
Faithful Friar Father John Murphy
Faithful Captain Ed Piacentino
Faithful Comptroller Russ Kahn
Faithful Purser Jim Neely
Faithful Pilot Joe VaripapaASSEMBLY NUMBER 1899
WILSON, NC
On May 2, 1982 Coastal Plains Assembly came into existence. They have rotated their meetings and social events between all the Assemblies in the Assembly. These Assemblies include: Wilson, Goldsboro, Greenville, and Rocky Mount.
CHARTER OFFICERS
Faithful Navigator Robert J. Singer
Faithful Captain Leonard Schiavo
Faithful Comptroller Steve Orosz
Faithful Admiral Charles Thackston
Faithful Purser Elmo Long
Faithful Pilot Lawrence TinsonASSEMBLY NUMBER 2017
WILMINGTON, NC
Assembly 2017 was formed out of Sen. Albert Ellis Assembly in
Jacksonville, NC on March 16, 1985. The assembly started with slightly
more than the minimum number of members needed to start an assembly, but
quickly grew. When it started it covered Council 1074 in Wilmington and
Council 9039 in Southport. Now it covers those two councils as well as
three other Wilmington councils, a Castle Haynes council, a Shallotte
council, a Hamstead coucil, and a Wallace council.The assembly was named after the first pastor of St. Mary Church in
Wilmington: Msgr. Christopher Dennen.The Charter Officers of Msgr Christopher Dennen Assembly were:
Faithful Navigator S. K. William E. Stenger
Faithful Friar S. K. Bishop George Lynch
Faithful Admiral S. K. Frank Armbruster
Faithful Captain S. K. Paul Coleman
Faithful Pilot S. K. Roger "Red" Fuller
Faithful Comptroller S. K. James R. Todd
Faithful Purser S. K. Albert Bonitz
Faithful Scribe S. K. Robert Jenski
Faithful I. S. S. K. Thorton Johnson
Faithful O. S. S. K. Samuel Bowens
Faithful Trustee (1) S. K. Frank Keenan
Faithful Trustee (2) S. K. Walter Galowski
Faithful Trustee (3) S. K. Burdell HarveyASSEMBLY NUMBER 2069
SOUTHERN PINES, NC
The Father William J. Dillon Assembly was chartered on May 1986 and when first organized met at the Western Steer Restaurant in Southern Pines, NC. they now hold their meeting and social events at St. Anthony's Parish Hall in Southern Pines on the third Wednesday of the month at 7:30 PM.
The Charter Members of the Assembly were:
Faithful Navigator Raymond Gatti
Faithful Friar Father Frederich Koch
Faithful Admiral Nick LaValle
Faithful Captain Joseph Quellette
Faithful Pilot Ben Barski
Faithful Comptroller Steve Wasecka
Faithful Purser Bob Best
Faithful Scribe Leonard Haney
Faithful Inner Sentinel Arthur Miccoa
Faithful Outer Sentinel William Oakley
Trustee 3 Years John Scholl
Trustee 2 Years John Coll
Trustee 1 Year Louise DeFlippiOn December 15th 1992 the Assembly presented to Sandhills Community College framed copies of the Bill of Rights, Declaration of Independence, the Mecklenburg Resolves and the Halifax Resolve. The frames were first class furniture with glass and they hang in the college library with the Assembly brass plaque showing the donation from the Assembly.
On December 15, 1991 Father William J. Dillon Assembly held a Christmas party at the Fayettville Veteran's Administration Hospital for veterans of the alcoholic ward. Some thirty veterans received a gift bag containing $5.00 cash plus a card, "T" shirts, socks, a book, shaving cream and hair tonic. The Assembly has continued this tradition since and expects to continue the practice in the future.
With the assistance of teachers in the Moore County, Hoke County and Sanford City school districts the Assembly has award $100.00 U.S. Savings Bond to Outstanding Students in each district. This award program has been going for the past five years and it also expects to continue in the future.
The Assembly, in 1997, purchased American flags and presented them to two new Middle Schools in Moore County. These flags were presented to the schools when they opened.
The present Faithful Navigator of this Assembly is Sir Knight Henry J. Lauritsch and the Faithful Comptroller is Sir Knight Nick Lozzi.
NAMESAKE OF THIS COUNCIL
FATHER WILLIAM J. DILLON
The name of this Assembly, Fr. William J. Dillon, was selected to honor the priest that covered over 15.000 square miles in this area beginning in 1911. He established the Church in; Fayetteville, Southern Pines; Pinehurst; Sanford; Hamlet; Laurenburg; Rockingham; Wadesboro; Monroe; Hope Mills and more. Fr. Dillon is buried in Pinehurst, next to the old Sacred Heart Church where he was the first Pastor. The Assembly began as a totally socially based organization. When the Assembly lost a couple of Sir Knights (SK Stan Bryck and SK Lou Defilippi) the gratitude of the widows for the Honor Guard caused them to emphasize the Honor Guard. The first Captain of the Guard was SK William Oakley.
In addition to the many activities of the Honor Guard (monthly Masses, funerals and celebrations) the Assembly maintains an active Patriotism Program--awarding flags to churches and schools; scholarships ($100.00 Savings Bond) to American History students, 2 (Boy and Girl) in each High School in the area.
ASSEMBLY NUMBER 2130
HENDERSONVILLE, NC
The Blue Ridge Assembly received its charter on April 9th 1988 and has held its meetings and social functions since that time at Immaculata School in Hendersonville, NC. The Charter Officers were Bill Marks, Henry Kovics and Joe Schendel.
During the past years this Assembly has been active on several fronts. They have provided an Honor Guard at St. Lawrence Basilica, Asheville, NC for a priest's first Mass. Provided an Honor Guard at immaculate Conception Church in Hendersonville for a funeral Mass for Knight Chuck Dwyer. The Honor Guard also responded to the Fourth Degree Exemplification at Greensboro were this Assembly sponsored twelve new Sir Knights. On November 2, 1997 when Immaculate Conception Council had a Communion Mass the Honor Guard was there.
At the annual 4th Degree Christmas dinner 71 Sir Knights from three Assemblies and their Ladies attended. On January 26, 1998 the honor Guard was present for the funeral Mass for Sir Knight Bill Mack at St. Barnabus Church, Arden, NC. Also, at the funeral Mass for Past State Master Henry Shieler the Guard was present at St. Eugene's Church in Asheville. On March 23, 1998 at St. John's Church in Tryon the Honor Guard honored deceased Sir Knight Jim Miesel. April 5, 1998 saw the Honor Guard respond for an Ecumenical Blessing of Palms at the flag pole on Main Street, Hendersonville, NC. On June 21, 1998 the Guard assisted Bishop William Curlin dedicate the new parish center at Sacred Heart Church, Brevard, NC.
The Blue Ridge Assembly encourages all members to become active in the Honor Guard.
The Assembly has purchased and donated to Immaculate Conception Church a gold Chalice in memory of their deceased Sir Knights. The names of the deceased are engraved on the Chalice. Two Chalices have been purchased as of this date and every time a priest elevates the Precious Blood at the alter the deceased Sir Knights are there.
Sir Knight Peter Von Jess, a Major in the N.C. National Guard and 52 men from the Raleigh/Durham area were called to serve a nine month tour in Croatia. The Blue Ridge Assembly has donated two American flags as part of the North Carolina State Council request that all military units overseas have an American flag.
The current Faithful Navigator is Sir Knight Patrick Benton and the current Faithful Comptroller is Roger Mehrtens.
ASSEMBLY NUMBER 2208
CHARLOTTE, NC
The Monsignor Newman Assembly Number 2208 was established on August 8, 1990 under District Master Richard Kopp.. When first organized the assembly met at St. John Neumann Catholic Church in Charlotte. Since 1990 they have been meeting at the Columbus Swim Club along with Council 7343 with whom they share the swim club building and grounds.
The Msgr. Lawrence C. Newman Assembly in 1998 established the Education Financial Assistance Fund for those students who have a need. This fund is open to all.
Assembly 2208 Past Faithful Navigators
YEAR NAME
1990 SK Edward J. Ryan, Jr.
1991 SK Harold Bittleman, Jr.
1992 SK Walter E. Karasiewicz
1993 SK Tom E.Kurzel
1994 SK Gerald L. Schmit
1995 SK Frank Gray
1996 SK Arthur H. Fitzgerald, Jr
1997 SK Arthur H. Fitzgerald, Jr.
1998 SK Willard Hamm
1999 SK John E. Geoghegan
2000 SK Robert A. Kachmarik
2001 SK Kurt C. Heckert, Sr.
2002 SK Terrance C. Mc Donald
2003 SK Vincent J. Cerullo
2004 SK Vincent LombardoCOMMANDER of the GUARD
1990-2000 SK Edward F.Comiskey
2000-2002 SK Robert A. Kachnarik
2002- SK Arthur H. Fitzgerald, Jr.CHARTER ASSEMBLY OFFICERS
Faithful Navigator Edward J. Ryan
Faithful Friar Rev. Richard M. Bellow, OFM,Conv
Faithful Captain Harold Bittleman, Jr.
Faithful Pilot John E. Gerrits
Faithful Comptroller James G. Shields
Faithful Scribe Gerald L. Schmit
Faithful Purser Walter E. Karasiewicz
Faithful Sentinels Frank K. Gray, Jr John E. Geoghegan
Faithful Admiral Wallace J. Mason
Faithful Trustees Edward F Comiskey Archie S. Briggs Francis C. RochfordASSEMBLY NUMBER 2246
CARY, NC
The Father Paul of Graymoor Assembly was organized and received its charter on June 19, 1999. They meet at St. Andrew's Church in Apex, NC.
CHARTER ASSEMBLY OFFICERS
Faithful Navigator Daniel F. Guliano
Faithful Friar Rev. Kenneth Cienik
Faithful Captain Keith P. Stringer
Faithful Admiral Dallas Foster
Faithful Pilot David M Litts
Faithful Scribe Francis S. Myers
Faithful Purser Ralph A. Arata
Faithful Comptroller Paul B. White
Faithful Inside Sentinel Ronald G. Perry
Faithful Outside Sentinel James J. Maccaline
Faithful Trustee 1 Year Walter L. Willard
Faithful Trustee 2 Years C. Joseph Genster
Faithful Trustee 3 Years William S. MitchellCHARTER MEMBERS
Ralph J. Arata James J. Maccaline
Ralph E. Blevins Richard F. McGuiness
Fred E. Campbell Rich O. McGuinessRev. Kenneth Cienic John F. McNamara
Huston Mike Clark William S. Mitchell
William A. Cooley Francis S. Myers
Kevin M. Dempsey Andrew J. Onofrio
Tom Eifler David L. Onofrio
Frank P. Falco Lloyd B. Petersohn
Charles M. Falkevitz Ronald G. Perry
Randolph Ferguson Mark A. Pfouts
Raymond J. Fisher Kenneth C. Reising, Jr
Philip A. Flynn Edward W. Richardson
Petet A. Fortman Rev. Richard Rohrer
Dallas Foster Richard R. Saccoccia
Andre Fournier Louis E. Sawicki
Frank Friedman John C. Schulte
Philip J. Garofolo Charles S. Short
Fernando Gaviria Keith P. Stringer
Anthony A. Gemma John M. Summers
C. Joseph Genster Deacon Leo Tapler
Willaim Rancy Harris Joseph H. Taresco
Jason Harris Albert Therriault
Terry D. Hunsinger William H. Travers
Andrew M. Keil Peter Von Jess
Vincent C. Kopp Charles W. Weber
David M. Litts Paul B. White
Pietro Lodato Walter L. WillardASSEMBLY 2254
BURLINGTON, NC
Msgr. Francis K. O'Brien Assembly was formed on June 24, 1991 in Burington, NC. Since their inception they have held their meetings at Blessed Sacrament Church in Burlington. This Assembly blends the 4th degree Knights from Burlington, Roxboro, Hillsborough and Chapel Hill and supports and funds patriotic activities of churches supports affiliated councils.
The Charter Members of this Assembly were:
Edward C. Basso, PGK Walter S. Bernatowicz, GK
Edward J. Burch John A. Cahill, PGK
Lewis R. Cheek, PGK, PFN Edward J. Davis
Joseph H. Dick, DM, PSD, PFN, PGK Victor E. Euliss
Anthony J. Festa, Jr. Salvatore A. Festa, FDM, FN, PGK
Eugene J, Fitzgerald Victor A, Giampocaro, Sr.
Charles V. Hirsch Raymond K. Hirsch
John L. Johnson Wade N. Johnson
Nicl Lozzi E. Darrell McCraven
Rev. Hilary G. Miketinac OFM Conv. William J. Ptacek
Joseph P. Shannon Paul L. Spire
William Sprague, PFN, PGK
Very Rev. Giles L. VanWormer OFM Conv
Stephen K. Whitfield Frederick W. Willis
The Past Faithful Navigators of the Msgr. Francis K. O'Brien Assembly have been:Salavatore A. Festa, FDM 1991-1993
Joseph H. Dick, FDM, PSD, PFN, PGK 1993-1995
Eugene J. Fitzgerald, PGK 1995-1997
Joseph H. Dick, FM, PSD, PFN, PGK 1997-1998The Assembly Officers for the 1998-1999 Year are as follows:
Lee B. Heavlin, PGK Faithful Navigator
Lewis Ray Cheek, PFN, PGK Faithful Comptroller
Rev. Daniel Quackenbush Faithful Frier
Richard F. Golec Faithful Captain
Joseph H. Dick, FDM, PSD, PFN, PGK Faithful Admiral
Joseph P. Shannon Faithful Purser
Eugene C. Drogos, GK Faithful Pilot
William Sprague, PGK, PFN Faithful Scribe
Jerome Pilarski Faithful Inner Sentinel
Jerry L. Yates Faithful Outer Sentinel
Salvatore A. Festa, FDM, PFN Faithful One Year Trustee
Livvie W. Vann Faithful Two Year Trustee
Eugene J. Fitzerald, PFN, PGK Faithful Three Year TrusteeASSEMBLY NUMBER 2379
ELIZABETH CITY, NC
The Father Stanley Grubitz Assembly Number 2379 received its charter from the Supreme Council on April 8, 1995. The assembly originally met at Holy Family Church, Elizabeth City, NC. The assembly then rotated meetings between Elizabeth City, Edenton, and Kill Devil Hills. Our Assembly was instrumental in the establishment of the Outer Banks Assembly in 2006. The assembly now rotates meeting between Edenton and Elizabeth City. The assembly received its first Civic Award in 1998-1999 and every subsequent year through 2006-2007. Over the years, the assembly has annually laid a wreath at Westlawn Cemetery, Elizabeth City on Veterans Day and Memorial Day. The assembly has also participated in parades in Elizabeth City, Edenton, Kill Devil Hills, and Virginia Beach. The membership has grown from 35 in 1995 to 71 through June 2008.
CHARTER OFFICERS
Faithful Navigator John J. Gregory, PGK, PFN, FDD
Faithful Friar Father Gene M. Grabowski
Faithful Captain Edward R. Boncek, Sr., PGK, FDD
Faithful Admiral Joseph M. Evanoff, FDD
Faithful Pilot Calvin M. Johnson
Faithful Purser Arthur J. LaMothe
Faithful Scribe Robert E. Wetzel
Faithful Comptroller Linus G. Riehle, PGK
Faithful Inner Sentinel John C. Purcell, PGK
Faithful Outer Sentinel James L. Riley
FAITHFUL NAVIGATORS
1995-1996 John J. Gregory, PGK, PFN, FDD
1996-1997 John A. Piotrowski, PGK, PFN, FDD
1997-1998 Edward R. Boncek, Sr., PGK, FDD
1998-1999 Delphino F. Quinto, PGK, PFN
1999-2000 William D. McCarter, PGK, PFN, FDD
2000-2001 Eugene Tortone, PGK, PFN, FDD
2001 -2002 Ralph Clapper, PGK, PFN
2002 -2003 Francis W. Willsey, PGK, PFN
2003-2004 David N. McGuire, PGK, PFN, FDD
2004-2005 Frank T. Jones, PGK, PFN, FDD
2005-2006 Francis W. Willsey, PGK, PFN
2006-2007 Robert E. Wetzel, PGK, PFN
2007-2008 Frank J. Mizak, PGK, PFN
2008-2009 Walter W. Smith, PGK
ASSEMBLY NUMBER 2531
Gastonia, NC
The William Gaston Assembly was chartered on May 29, 1998. This Assembly first met in Belmont, NC during the organizational period. It now meets for six months of the year at Queen of Apostle's Parish in Belmont and six months at St. Michael's Parish in Gastonia.
The Charter Officers of this Assembly were:
Faithful Navigator Patrick M. Watts
Faithful Friar Msgr. Anthony Kovacic
Faithful Captain Ronald Pantuso
Faithful Pilot Robert L. Atterberry, Jr.
Faithful Comptroller Kenneth E. Raymond
Faithful Scribe George D. Burazer
Faithful Purser Frank D. Pilieci
Faithful Inner Sentinel Joseph C. Delaney
Faithful Outer Sentinel Raymond C. Block
Faithful Admiral Carlton Heil
Trustee One Year Lucien Metayer
Trustee Two Years Eugene A. Siebers
Trustee Three Years Eugene CourtemancheIn 1846 Gaston County became North Carolina's 74th county. The county was named for a statesman, scholar, former North Carolina Supreme Court Justice and orator, Judge William Gaston of New Bern, North Carolina.
Gaston was a man, as he himself described it, "baptized an American in the blood of a martyred father". His father was shot to death in the presence of both William and his mother. Alexander, his father, had dared to speak his true convictions openly against the British during the era of the American Revolution.
William had law offices in both Raleigh and New Bern, North Carolina. He maintained his law practice throughout his life. He served four terms in the North Carolina State Legislature, two terms in the U.S. Congress, a cabinet post under the President of the United States and refused nomination of President of the United States as a Whig candidate. Judge William Gaston was held in high esteem at his death and continues to be held in high regard today.
It certainly can be acknowledged that Judge William Gaston was a patriot, a gentleman, a noble adversary, a kind and generous father and fighter for that which he believed to be a just and moral cause. He was also a man with a song in his heart-he is the author of our State Song-"The Old North State".
William Gaston was a devout servant of the Roman Catholic Church. Because of his concern for the religious training of his children in 1812, he resolved to move to the North, probably to Baltimore, where that object might be facilitated. The War of 1812, the beginning of his congressional career, and his wife's death combined to prevent that move. Instead, Gaston sent his children at an early age to Catholic boarding schools.
William Gaston carried forward his mother's struggle to get a parish established and a priest regularly assigned to New Bern. When priests visited New Bern, Masses were celebrated in Gaston's parlor. Bishop John England of Charleston visited him in New Bern in 1821, 1823, and 1824 and under that stimulus funds were raised and land bought for a church. William Gaston was the largest contributor to the construction of St. Paul's Church. In the mid-1820's a resident priest was assigned to St. Paul's. It was then that the long cherished goal of the Gaston's, mother and son, was at last attained.
In 1840, William Gaston again was the major contributor for the construction of a Catholic Church. This church was built in Mt. Holly, North Carolina and was named St. Joseph's Catholic Church.
St. Joseph's was completed in 1843 and stands today, 155 years later, as the oldest, still standing Catholic Church in North Carolina. William died in 1844 without ever seeing what his gift had built.
ASSEMBLY NUMBER 2713
SWANSBORO, NC
Chartered September 5, 2001
Charter Officers –
George E. Albertine – Faithful Navigator
Donald Broussard - Faithful Captain & Color Corps Commander
Richard Baulch – Faithful Scribe
Eugene M. O'Dea – Faithful Admiral
John Laursen - Faithful Pilot
John Hadley - Faithful Comptroller
John Gumbrecht - Outer Sentinel
George Wagner - Inner Sentinel
Michael Yuhas – 1st Yr. Trustee
John Nastasi – 2nd Yr. Trustee
John Petrizzi – 3rd Yr. Trustee
Charter MembersWichard Bodie, Adolph Bomba, Jr., Joseph Braum, Arthur Del Giudice, Charles Ficke, Dale Kuerbitz, Joseph Moore, Nicholas Nastasi, Paul Paquette, John Peck, Walter Pylypin, George Ritchie, Michael Sansevero, Sr., Richard Schrum, Jeffrey Stroham, Walter Trigleth, Patrick Voyce, Sr.
ASSEMBLY NUMBER 2826
OAK ISLAND, NC
Chartered March 1, 2004
Faithful Navigator: Angelo Gibilaro
Faithful Comptroller: Joseph Duquette III
Faithful Friar: Rev. J. Douglas Lawson
Faithful Captain: Donald Meyer
Faithful Admiral: John Long
Faithful Purser: Charles Sunder
Faithful Pilot: William Jankowski
Faithful Scribe: Richard Hunt
Inner Sentinel: Wayne Townsend
Outer Sentinel: Albert DeRonda
One-Year Trustee: Daniel Cundiff
Two-Year Trustee: Peter Goewey
Three-Year Trustee: Victor CarattiniASSEMBLY NUMBER 3001
MAGGIE VALLEY, NC
Chartered August 31, 2006
The Great Smoky Mountain Assembly was chartered on August 31, 2006. It is comprised of Fourth Degree members from Council #8363 in Franklin, Council #9722 in Sylva, Council #12478 in Maggie Valley and Council # 14087 in Andrews. The Assembly meets the second Saturday each month, rotating it meetings between the council locations. The Charter Officers of the Assembly were installed on October 14, 2006, by District Master Robert J. Singer, PSD.
Charter Officer of the Assembly are:
Faithful Navigator - SK Richard S. Hamel
Faithful Friar - Rev. Frank Doyle, OSA
Faithful Captain – SK Nicholas F. Walsh
Faithful Admiral - SK John A. Matchulat
Faithful Pilot - SK Jasay F. Ketchum
Faithful Purser - SK Daniel L. Lange
Faithful Scribe - SK Anthony J. Minniti
Faithful Comptroller - SK Joseph R. Mongolier
Faithful Inner Sentinal - SK Nicholas D’Anna
Faithful Outer Sentinal - SK John P. Levell, Sr.
3YR Trustee - SK Gerald F. Ketchmark
2YR Trustee - SK Jerome B. Hoffart
1YR Trustee - SK James P. Donovan