I have had the honor of serving as your Grand Knight of Msgr. William F. Burke Rockaway Council #2672 for the past year. I would like to thank the membership for my recent re-election as well as the re-election of our officers. We are a fortunate organization, while economic crisis and challenges of charitable organizations have been reported in the media; we have experienced the distinct pleasure of growth in membership and activities.

Thanks to our members who have worked side by side with me in expanding our events calendar with such memorable events such as Night at the Races, Sinatra/Elvis night, Father Divine's Golden Jubilee Celebration and the resurrection of the Family Picnic. These events sparked an excitement and participation in our membership that as Grand Knight, I was proud to witness.

One event that stands out this past year is Relay For Life. The Knights for the Cure this year raised $5,631 for the American Cancer Society. Although the money raised was a significant achievement, what thrills me most as Grand Knight is the younger members stepping up to spearhead such an important cause. I would like to congratulate the team - Chairman, Mike McGee as well as Clarence Van Dexter, Brian Van Dexter, Joe Delessio, John T. Gillespie, Mike Doonan and Ray Otton. Congratulations Brothers on job well done.

Additionally, the recruitment efforts of our members this year continued to be outstanding. I am so proud to announce that Msgr. William F. Burke Rockaway Council is being recognized with the Centennial Membership Award and Gold Star Council Award for our record breaking number of first degree members since last summer of over one hundred (100). Additionally we had over 60 new third degrees this year as well.

Enclosed please find the C&B chance books. This program is a significant fundraiser for our organization. This annual fundraiser allows contributions to some of the Knights of Columbus' most important programs as outlined on the inside cover of the chance book. We ask your full support to our own Brother Frank Bagley, PGK, PDD who is the State Chairman of this program as well as Ed Raasch, PGK who chairs the program for our own Council. Brother Raasch is looking for volunteers to help with the chance books. Call the Council for dates when selling will be done. Books are $10.00 for 15 chances or $1.00 per chance. Please return all books directly to the council either in person or by mail.

2011 Membership dues will be going up to $40. Application fees for new members are $10. If there is a hardship in paying dues, please contact the Council to speak to the Financial Secretary Brian Courtney or email RCourt8100@aol.com

We have a very full schedule (enclosed) for the remainder of the year so please read the schedule carefully. I would like to point out a few events and fundraisers in particular. One being August 26th which marks the 100th Birthday of Mother Theresa. There will be a ceremony at 8:30 PM that I am asking all members to attend. Additionally, on September 11th we will have a prayer services at the Cross at 7:45 PM, please try to attend. On September 24th our annual Richard Knott, Sr. Golf Outing will be held – details are on the events list. September 26th will be the installation of officers. Mass will be held at the Council followed by Brunch. October 2nd we are doing a join fundraiser with St. Camillus. We will be hosting a Doo Wop Knight. Ticket information is on the events sheet. October 22, I would like to invite you to Member Appreciation Night so we can all celebrate the great strides made for the Council in the last year.

I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate Larry Kelly, P.G.K, FDD on being elected Faithful Navigator for the Fourth Degree – Stephen Moylan Assembly.

On behalf of myself and my fellow elected officers. I would like to thank the membership for their faith and support. We will strive to continue the positive momentum of growth and enthusiasm we have experienced during the past year. The future of our Council will be tied to recruitment and more importantly participation of our current members. We must strengthen our ties with the local parishes, other community organizations and identify ourselves as a faith based service organization. In doing so, we will mainstay our positive numbers, looking always toward other untapped avenues of recruitment and we will have a clear vision of our mission of service to use as our guide.

In closing, I ask that you participate in the meetings and events of the Council. Each member has something to offer. Each member is an important part of US. Your participation makes a difference.

Thank you,
John Gillespie
Grand Knight