For many years, the Spencerport Council of the Knights of Columbus has assisted the Salvation Army in their Red Kettle campaign to raise funds for those who are less fortunate and to help fund their other activities that promote Christian charity.
The Council became involved when the late Past Grand Knight Pat Murray contacted the Salvation Army and asked how the Knights could help. The Council was assigned to the then Big M market in North Chili. They rang the bells in North Chili for several years and then movd to the Spencerport Tops for the last few years. The Council was often among the top fund raisers for the time they helped out.
On February 13, the Salvation Army held the second annual Gratitude Gathering at the Hyatt Regency Rochester Grand Ballroom. They had several presentations, with one being the annual “Battle of the Bells” winners.” The Salvation Army awarded the Council with a plaque for first place in the community organizing campaign. Receiving the plaque were current Grand Knight Scott Nather, of Brockport, and Past Grand Knight Bob Rejewski. The presentation was made by Major Bethany Starkey. Assisting in this year’s campaign were Jim Downs, Community Activities Chairman for the Council, along with Larry Peck, Frank Andolina, Dave Hodder, John Greico, Ray Ehnot, Dick Gaghler, Scott Nather, Bob Rejewski, Tony and Kathy Pacilio.
The Council is grateful to Tops Friendly Markets for allowing them to hold the campaign there and to all those who generously donated to the fund.
Spencerport Council covers the parishes of St. John the Evangelist Spencerport, Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Brockport, St. Christopher’s in North Chili, St. Mary’s, St. Bonafice, Blessed Sacrament in Rochester, and parts of the town of Hamlin.
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