March 2024

Liddick

Bro. Morgan Liddick and Lady Patricia are relatively new to our parish and our Council. As a new parishioner, Patricia liked the active turnout of our Ladies of the Knights at the Council Corporate Communion with Bishop Daniel held in January. At the same time, Morgan decided to get more involved in his new home and made a reapplication in the Knights of Columbus. On January 28th, he completed his Exemplification.
At Holy Cross Catholic Community, Lady Patricia is a Greeter. Morgan often teams with Pat greeting parishioners with a hardy welcome. However, it is Morgan’s warm and rich resonating voice and his pacing as a Lector that gains the attention of mass attendees … and when you gain attention, the mass has a much deeper meaning to all. As a Council, we honor them as our Family of the Month for March.

February 2024

Melendez

Few can match the commitment of the Deacon Herbert A. Melendez family to Holy Cross Catholic Community in Sparks, NV. SK Herb has been a Council member for over 17 years and a Former District 2 and District 6 Deputy, as well as a Former State Council Hispanic Development Field Director (North). His bilingual language skills have not only helped as a recruitment tool for new members, but he has also served as a language translator for the Council and during the Spanish mass.

On September 10, 2022, SK Herb completed the four-year Diocese of Reno Diaconate Formation program and currently serves as a Deacon at the parish. Lady Mirna is equally active in the parish and is a member of the Ponderosa Council Ladies of the Knights. Herb Jr. is a Council member who is on active military duty. Son Khris is a Council member and a volunteer teacher in the parish Children’s Liturgy class program. Daughter Yisseth and son Joshua frequently operate the remote monitor screens on display during mass. For all that they do, the Melendez family are recognized as the Council’s Family of the Month for February.

January 2024

Tighe

For the month of January, the Council recognizes SK Thomas Tighe Jr. and Lady Teresa as our Family of the Month. Both bring years of support to the Church and to our fraternal order. Both are Eucharistic Ministers.
Teresa is also a Lector, a member of the Council’s Ladies of the Knights auxiliary, and one who frequently teams with Tom in service initiatives including most recently, the Corporate Communion with Bishop Daniel.
SK Tom is a three-time Past Grand Knight from California with 55 years of active service in the Knights. During the Christmas season, he helped prepare and serve breakfast to families at the Breakfast with Santa event. He also serves as a Council Trustee and is one who actively attends and participates in council meetings when not vacationing on the road in an Airstream Travel Trailor with Lady Teresa.

December 2023

McTiernan

Bro. Jeffrey and Lady Diane McTiernan are recognized as the Council’s December Family of the Month for their participation in the combined Coats for Kids/Breakfast with Santa programs held at the Boys and Girls Club of Truckee Meadows. Bro. Jeff is our Council’s newest member, and this was the McTiernan’s initial participation in a council service initiative as a team.
Both arrived at the crack of dawn to volunteer. Jeff helped unload boxes of “kid” coats and winter wear, and Lady Diane helped set up and distribute it to grateful families in a change room. Bro. Jeff went on to help prepare and serve breakfast on the food service line bringing smiles to many. Santa was very pleased.

November 2023

Lane

SK Mark and Lady Judy Lane have long been recognized as a team, particularly during their support of the Sprouts Initiative. However, for the month of November, they are recognized as our Family of the Month for two uniquely different contributions.

Mark enjoys candy and did an outstanding job as our Council Tootie Roll Drive Program Chair.

Lady Judy enjoys decorating and gift wrapping and was the Decoration Committee Chair for Holy Cross’ largest parish fundraiser. Over the past months, she helped assemble 165 silent auction gift baskets and 25 live auction displays, as well as promote event ticket and raffle sales. She was also recognized by the Diocese as the Holy Cross Catholic Community Volunteer of the Year. Together they make quite an impact.

October 2023

Bilka

This month, our Council recognizes John and Mary Ann Bilka as our October Family of the Month for their continuing contribution to the success of our largest fundraiser, the Reno Air Races. It is an event that both have volunteered and supported for years.

John is recognized for his Reno Air Races planning and set-up knowledge, and for managing this year’s unique issues at Parking Lot 9. He also helped prepare the food for the follow-up Volunteer Appreciation Dinner.

Mary Ann is recognized for shuttling volunteers (including John), delivering water and cold beverages, even fresh donuts via golf cart to and from the six major parking lots and the Cooler Line hub. In addition, she added a lady’s touch to the Volunteer Appreciation Dinner. Both are active parishioners at Immaculate Conception.

September 2023

Holleman

SK Robert and Lady Lisa Holleman have long been recognized for their support of Holy Cross parish, not only as Eucharistic ministers, and parish lectors, but also in many other ways both inside the church and on the parish grounds.
This month both are recognized as our September Family of the Month for their extraordinary contribution of time and energy in support of the Council’s Best in the West Nugget Rib Cook Off and the Reno Air Races Association volunteer contracts. Together, this high-energy team worked all five (5) evening shifts and all day on the sixth day, Labor Day, in a main beverage booth at the Rib Fest, and resided on the Reno Stead Airport grounds in their camper working the entire day all five days at the Reno Air Races, Bob for cooler line duty on the tarmac, and Lisa as the Parking Lot Captain for Lot 6, the designated Handicap Parking lot!
It was volunteer contributions like this that furthered the record success of these Ponderosa Council 4928 fundraisers.

August 2023

Schiwart

SK Steve Schiwart and Lady Debbie continue to be active parishioners at Holy Cross Catholic Community (HCCC). Both serve as Eucharistic ministers. He also serves as a parish lector and usher.

SK Steve is our Council Advocate, the current District Warden, and the State Council Chair for the Pilgrimage of the Silver Rose. In the latter role, he recently travelled to Reading, CA via Fairfield, CA and back to Sparks, NV to coordinate and collect the Silver Rose to initiate its Nevada tour leg with a presentation and rosary at HCCC on August 6th – an approximate 575 mile drive in service!

Debbie is the parish’s Women’s Group Chair responsible for leading its Easter Diaper Drive, hosting pancake breakfasts, and maintaining the parish Gift Cabinet. As a couple they are recognized as the Council’s August Family of the Month.

July 2023

Malone

For the Month of July, our Council recognizes the Angela Malone family. Angela, a widow since the tragic loss of her husband Kevin in March 2017, is co-chair of the HCCC Altar Server Ministry. She also teaches Religious Education.

When not volunteering, Angela keeps track of the family. Her three adult children are Thomas, Kaitlin, and Maggie. Both daughters are married with children, which makes her a grandmother. Still at home are Kevin, Samantha, and Michael.

Maggie was the first to serve as an altar server training Kevin, who in turn trained Sammy who is now training Mikey, all under Angela's guiding hand. Thomas is a member of the University of Nevada Reno Council 16207 (Newman Center) and serves as the Diocese of Reno Vice Chancellor under Bishop Daniel Mueggenborg. She raised them well.

June 2023

Minter

Grand Knight George and Lady Joyce Minter have long been recognized for their continuing Council support. However, it took a loss to provide a clear image to many as an example of how best a family can put its faith in action. The loss was the passing of PGK Mark B. Foxwell, SK George’s membership proposer, mentor, and close friend.

Prior to Mark’s death, Lady Joyce, a retired registered nurse, provided care and comfort during his medical trials. With his passing, SK George planned, prepared, and hosted the reception after the funeral mass. The Foxwell family was deeply moved.

The Minters continue to provide care and comfort to widow Connie, who herself, has been struggling with serious medical issues. This dynamic Council family team makes a difference and are duly recognized as our Family of the Month for June.

May 2023

Jenkins

This month, the Council recognizes Bro. David Jenkins and Lady Theresa who are relatively new to the Council. Both have shown they put their faith in action; and both have shown they can make an impact. Dave is a retired police officer who became a Council knight less than a year ago. Theresa is a frequent Eucharistic Minister, Lector, parish bulletin contributor, and parish fundraising program volunteer at Holy Cross Catholic Community.

This month the Council recognizes the Jenkins for their hands on support of the annual Sparks Police Department Appreciation Luncheon. We are sure that their participation and enthusiasm was not lost among the honored men and women in blue on that day in May

April 2023

Higley

This month, the Council recognizes the Charles and Amanda Higley family. It is remarkable for a family to be so active that the significance and level of their parish participation can sometimes be taken for granted. But not by us.

On a typical Sunday morn, when the 8:00am mass begins, daughters Hayley and Grace can be found leading the celebrant into the Worship Area as altar servers. During the service, their oldest daughter Sierra, a former altar server and volunteer CCD instructor, may be the designated Lector. Mom and dad are very supportive and active in parish ministries. The Higley family, as parishioners of the Holy Cross Catholic Community, is a blessing for all.

March 2023

Tighe

SK Thomas Tighe Jr. and Lady Teresa are relatively new to our state with roots in California. They bring years of support to the Church and the knights. Both are Eucharistic ministers. Teresa is also a Lector.

SK Tom was a multi-term Grand Knight with 54 years of service. Most recently he helped sell seminarian raffle tickets at Holy Cross and St. Therese, as well as help present the Relics of the Passion of Christ during its recent tour in the Reno-Sparks area.

Long associated with the Airstream International Club, most recently with the local Lake Tahoe Airstream Club, we were fortunate to catch them between caravans as they tour our land. As our March Family of the Month, we wish them happy trails and many safe returns.

February 2023

Joyce

Bro. David Joyce is a Life Member with 45 years of service. His spouse, Mary Alice, was co-chair with Kathy Peak for the Fr. George C. Wolf Estate Sale initiative held on the weekend of January 21-22 at Holy Cross. This estate sale raised over $2,700.00 toward the parish college scholarship fund in memory of our deceased chaplain. Together this family team volunteered 16 hours in service planning, recruiting, and holding this event.

Both Bro. Dave and Lady Mary Alice helped earlier at the Annual Diocesan Conference. In addition, during the estate sale Bro. Dave doubled down by helping with the promotion of Seminarian Education Fund raffle ticket sales within the parish, an activity not permitted in the church since 2015. He currently serves as the Council Outside Guard.

January 2023

Cochran

SK Marv Cochran is a Past Grand Knight (2002-2004) and Lady Leslie was a founding member of our Ladies of the Knights band of sisters (2014). However, with the passing of time, both have become synonymous with the Diocese of Reno Annual Diocesan Conference and its success.

This January, Marv once again co-chaired this service initiative and helped plan, organize, recruit, and lead the council in support of this two-day event at the Nugget Casino Resort. Lady Leslie participated in several ways, including, but not limited to, being part of the concierge team in support of the various conference programs and events. Both were key to achieving the success of this FAITH program initiative.

December 2022

Lyninger

You won’t find Santa Claus on the Council roster, but he’s there — and not just in spirit! This holiday season marked the 28th consecutive year SK John Lyninger and Lady Lisa (aka Mrs. Claus) have portrayed our North Pole neighbors bringing nervous joy to all the kids at the Boys and Girls Club of Truckee Meadows Breakfast with Santa Program, a program long supported by our Council.

It also marked the first time in over two years that believers were able to sit on their laps with wish lists and sugarplums dancing in their head. December is certainly the appropriate month to recognize the Lyninger family as our Council Family of the Month. “Ho! Ho! Ho! Merry Christmas.”

November 2022

Bilka

This month, our Council recognizes Bro. John Bilka and Lady Mary Ann as our Family of the Month for their continuing contribution to the success of our largest fundraiser, the Reno Air Races. Shoulder surgery kept John from waiving a parking lot baton this year, but both he and Mary Ann were still there to help make this event a success. John is recognized for his planning and set-up knowledge, and for his link to Ponderosa Charities, Inc., the RARA contract holder. Mary Ann is recognized for shuttling volunteers, delivering cool beverages, and even fresh donuts via golf cart to and from the six major parking lots and the Cooler Line hub. Both remain very active at Immaculate Conception parish.

October 2022

Recla

Bro. Bryan and Lady Sandy Recla work frequently as a team. Bryan is our Council’s Recorder, and a frequent volunteer in Council fundraisers, service initiatives and at the parish. Lady Sandra is active in the Council’s Ladies of the Knights program. Together this family team helped man the Walmart entrance in Sparks, NV encouraging passers-by to contribute to our Helping People with Intellectual Disabilities (Tootsie Roll) drive.

What a rewarding use of time and effort putting one’s faith in action! For this, they are recognized as our Council Family of the Month for October.

September 2022

Popp

Together, Bro. Robert and Lady Diane Popp worked a total of 20 volunteer shifts, essentially from dawn to dusk for five days at the 2022 Reno Air Races event. Bob was part of the Cooler Crew responsible for off-loading and later returning corporate sponsor coolers that were transported by the Council to and from the Reno-Stead Airport tarmac.
Lady Diane volunteered as Ice Sales Co-Chair and helped keep the Bishop Manogue Catholic HS students active and interested in making their community service hours meaningful. In addition, their pleasant demeanor contributed to a sense of team, and teamwork is a key element for fundraising success. For all their time and energy, leadership and smiles, Bro. Robert and Lady Diane are recognized as the Council’s Family of the Month for September.

August 2022

Higley

The Higley family is truly remarkable. On a typical Sunday morn, one may find Amanda (mom) and Charles (dad) greeting parishioners in the parish Gathering Space before mass. When the mass begins, daughters Hayley and Grace may be leading the celebrant into the Worship Area as altar servers. During the service, daughter Sierra, a volunteer CCD instructor, may be a designated Lector. Having an entire family step up as a team to assist at mass is marvelous. Being part of the Holy Cross Catholic Community is a blessing for all.

July 2022

Humphreys

SK Leo J. Humphreys has long been associated with the Food for Families Sprouts Initiative delivering surplus perishable food and produce weekly to where the need is greatest. Presently, Leo is also the Event Chair for the Ponderosa Council Fans for Seniors program in support of the KOLO TV-Channel 8-KOLACares 2022 fan drive for seniors in need.

Both SK Leo and Lady Marlene have been parishioners of Holy Cross since the early 1960s. They are a family team that puts their Faith in Action by serving as Greeters, Eucharistic Ministers, Lectures, and when the need arises, Altar Servers. They are also volunteers in the Friends of Holy Cross program that assists the parish in many ways. For all that they do, the Humphreys are duly recognized as our July Family of the Month.

June 2022

Pagni

Bro. Robin K. Pagni and Lady Chris were recognized as the Council’s June Family of the Month for their support of the highly successful 3rd Annual Sparks Police Dept. Appreciation Luncheon. Bro. Robin was Program Co-chair charged with the responsibility of coordinating this event with the City of Sparks, as well as the procurement of food and event supplies. Lady Chris helped drape training room tables in red and blue as well as help set up a makeshift serving line for “blue plate specials.” In addition, both were event greeters to the more than seventy-five (75) men and women in blue who attended this luncheon in their honor.

May 2022

Lane

Bro. Mark Lane and Lady Judy are recognized as our Family of the Month for May for their sustained volunteer support of the Sprouts Initiative, the Council’s most successful Food for Families program. Generally, each Thursday for over two years, they have worked as a team utilizing Mark’s pickup truck delivering surplus perishable food, fresh produce, and personal care items to where the need is greatest. That program continues to exceed all expectations in no small part due to Bro. Mark and Lady Judy putting their faith in action.

April 2022

Martonyi

Bro. Andrew and Lady Irma Martonyi have been long recognized for their commitment to helping the needy of our community. Currently, they co-chair the Sprouts Initiative, a program recognized by State in 2021 as the Family Program of the Year. That program continues to exceed all expectations with three multi-member volunteer teams making weekly delivery of perishable food to those in need.
For a range of reasons, during the gloom of winter past, staffing was a challenge. In each case, Andrew and Irma have been able to step up and recruit new volunteers to fill a need. To them, failure is not an option.
Ponderosa Council recognizes “Team Martonyi” as our Family of the Month for their on-going contribution to the success of the Sprouts Initiative. They never fail to “bring home the bacon” to those in need.

March 2022

Morris

SK Michael and Lady Carla Morris continue to be active in pro-life initiatives. He is the Council’s Life Director, the parish Respect Life program lead, and Lector. As a team, they are also frequent Greeters at the 8:00am Sunday mass.

Currently, SK Michael is actively chairing the Spring 40-Days for Life campaign encouraging members and parishioners to participate in this pro-life program. Together they believe in the power of prayer and the value of peaceful presence to help stop the scourge of abortion.

February 2022

Minter

After a two-year hiatus due to the pandemic, SK George Minter has been working hard reinvigorating parish interest in our Columbian Squires Circle, a faith-based youth program designed to help develop leadership skills in our young Catholic men. As the program’s Chief Counselor, George has inspired current Columbian Squires to return to the Circle and is diligently recruiting new parish youth to join.

Lady Joyce is recognized for her continuing support of the Council by encouraging member spouses to volunteer in service by participating in our Ladies of the Knights program. Her leadership skills often spells the difference between a good program result and a great one. This dynamic husband and wife team makes a difference and are duly recognized as our Family of the Month for February.

January 2022

Holleman

The Hollemans continue to amaze. SK Robert was largely responsible for recruiting members and completing the cleanup of the parish grounds, the parish parking lots, and access roadsides. Lady Lisa was on her hands and knees cleaning floor grout, on step stools hanging pictures in classrooms, and hand-sewing drapery material, where needed. All this activity was done in preparation of Bishop Daniel’s initial visit to Holy Cross Catholic Community. By all accounts, the parish was a welcoming site and sight both inside and out for our new bishop. For their faith in action service, they are named Ponderosa Council’s Family of the Month for January.

December 2021

Goucher

PGK Charles B. Goucher and Lady Linda are recognized as our Family of the Month for December for advocating continued Council participation in Holy Cross parish’s 1st Friday of the Month Eucharistic Adoration prayer service and for supporting Supremes’ Coats for Kids program.

SK Chuck was the Council Program Chair for Coats for Kids. Lady Linda handmade over 100 winter scarves, and together they purchased 66 pairs of winter gloves, all of which was donated to the needy of our community under the Coats for Kids program. They are an example of putting faith in action.

November 2021

Mann

SK Richard and Lady Angela Mann have participated in Council activities for over 20 years. Richard has over 35 years in Scouting. He is proudest of his tenure as Scoutmaster. Ponderosa Council is thankful for his many years as our Charter Representative for Troop 14 and Pack 14.
Lady Angela helped produce newspapers for over 46 years including eight years that she and Richard owned the Virginia City newspaper. In a different era, Sam Clemens would have enjoyed working for her, but never the Twain did she meet.
Recently, Holy Cross parish expressed “sincere gratitude” for Angela’s time and editorial talent in producing its weekly parish bulletin for many years. The Council named her to its Volunteer Rookie Team as the “Iron Lady” for working all six days of the Nugget Rib Cook Off. Together, they are recognize as our Family of the Month for doing their best in duty to God and country.

October 2021

Bilka

Bro. John and Lady Mary Ann Bilka are no strangers to the Council. They were one of our very first families to be recognized and posted on our website back in 2014: John for setting up and working on the RARA Cooler Crew; Mary Ann for setting up and running the RARA Ice Sales. Both have volunteered at the Reno Air Races every year in the interim when held, and they did so again this year. Mary Ann continues to lead the Prayer Quilt Group at IC, a program she initiated at HCCC. For their continuing fundraising support to the Church and the Council, we are pleased to recognize them as our Family of the Month for October.

September 2021

Minter

SK George and Lady Joyce Minter could not do it alone, but the success of the two largest fundraisers, held back-to-back in September, could not have been achieved they without them. Bro. George was the Program Chair for the Nugget Rib Cook Off and the Program Co-Chair for the Reno Air Races. He coaxed, cajoled, and wheedled over 2,725 total volunteer hours by members, family, and local area councils. Lady Joyce provided grace and charm working multiple shifts at both the Nugget Rib Cook Off beverage booths and the Reno Air Races Ice Sales tent. There’s more, but you get the drift. A truly remarkable achievement.

August 2021

Morris

SK Michael Morris has always been associated with culture of life initiatives. He is the Council’s Life Director and the parish Respect Life program lead. Then there’s his better half, Lady Carla. For the life of me, it was a surprise to note that it has been more than 5 years since the Morris family has been recognized as a team. They are Greeters who are full of life in the Gathering Space on Sunday at 7:30am in the morning welcoming parishioners to mass. Together they bring to life a spirit of community at Holy Cross Catholic Community. For this, we welcome them as our August Family of the Month.

July 2021

Melendez

Few can match the commitment of the Herbert A. Melendez family to Holy Cross Catholic Community. SK Herb has been a Council member for 14 years and a Former District Deputy. In addition to being a Eucharistic Minister, a Lector, and a translator for the Spanish mass, he is the parish Webmaster, and currently in Year 3 of the four-year Diocese of Reno Diaconate Program. Lady Mirna is equally active as a parishioner, mother, and as a participant in Council fundraisers and activities with five sons and daughters, two of whom are members of the Council, one of which is active military. For the Melendez family, Faith in Action begins at home.

June 2021

Holleman

It seldom happens that a Council couple returns to the limelight so soon, but the Holleman family are back again. SK Bob and Lady Lisa are being recognized for extending their time and energy to the grassroots … literally. Long recognized for putting their Faith in Action by regularly serving as Eucharistic Ministers and Lectors at Holy Cross Catholic Community, they have now agreed to volunteer even more of their time and energy to help maintain and take care of our parish building and grounds. To our Council Officers, that was grounds for honoring them as our June Family of the Month.

May 2021

Villanueva

The Villanueva family continues its very visible role at Holy Cross parish despite pandemic restrictions. Bro. Lusciano is a Lector and Eucharistic Minister and helps organize many Hispanic-theme events and programs. Lady Icela completed the Lay Ministry Formation program in Spanish and is very active in religious education. Daughter Lucia completed the same course in English and works in the parish office. The sons are active in the altar server program and frequently operate the display monitor. For this and for many more reasons, they are recognized as our Council Family of the Month for May.

April 2021

McClain

The McClain’s are a truly remarkable family. Bro. Ron and Lady Marcia are both Eucharistic Ministers and Lectors. Their oldest son Connor is a Lector and an altar server. Their younger son Cameron is an altar server. Both boys have been part of the Fr. Art Herkowski Columbian Squires Circle 5686. Having an entire family step up as a team and assist at Mass is uncommon. Being part of the Holy Cross Catholic Community is a blessing for all.

March 2021

Lane

As the need to feed the hungry grows, Bro. Mark and Lady Judy Lane are recognized as the Council Family of the Month for their increasing dedication to the Sprouts Farmers Market Initiative by assuming weekly delivery responsibilities of more than 400 lbs. of perishable food on average to various food pantries and missions, and to families known to face food insecurity.

February 2021

Recla

Bryan Recla achieved his 1st Degree in November 2019 and Sandra became a member of the Ladies of the Knights soon after. Both were anxious and excited about being part of the Council and Holy Cross parish. In the midst of the 2020 Holiday Season, they answered a plea for help. The Boys and Girls Club of Truckee Meadows needed volunteers on short notice to prepare and package 2,000 meals-to-go for the needy in Northern Nevada. For living out the calling of their faith, and for being there when it was needed most, Bro. Bryan and Lady Sandra are recognized as the Council’s Family of the Month for February.

January 2021

Holleman

He was from Pahrump and showed up at the Reno Air Races to volunteer. He liked what he saw; we liked what he did. Eventually, SK Bob and Lady Lisa would relocate to Sparks. He transferred-in to the Council; she became an active participant in the Ladies of the Knights. Both have been recognized for their food donations and hands-on serving line support for R.I.S.E. and Dine events. This month they are recognized for putting their Faith in Action by regularly serving as Eucharistic Ministers and Lectors at Holy Cross Catholic Community. They make quite a team! Nourishing bodies and souls with nutritional and spiritual food.

December 2020

Cochran

The Cochrans are recognized as the December Family of the Month for their on-going Council participation and support. Long recognized for their culinary skills, most recently they showed their stuff grilling hamburgers at the Police Appreciation Luncheon and flipping pancakes and scrambling eggs at the Breakfast with Santa. This husband-wife team furthers the Council’s long-standing tradition of service to the community. SK Marv is a Past Grand Knight (2002-2004) and Lady Leslie was a founding member of our Ladies of the Knights band of sisters. They each get better with time.

November 2020

Pagni

On October 22nd, the Council hosted a Sparks Police Department Appreciation Luncheon. It was a “blue plate special” meal event that consisted of outdoor-grilled hamburgers and hot dogs, sides and dessert served in the station training room with tables arranged and decorated by Council members and family.

Despite its many challenges, Bro. Robin successfully planned, arranged and provided hands-on participation of the event from start to finish. Part of his success was due to Lady Christi preparing her special food trays at home. The event was very well-received. One factor may be due to son Sgt. Nick Pagni being on-duty and in attendance. To him it was a home-cooked meal.

October 2020

Althoff

Dr. Steven Althoff, Lady Dr. Troy Ferguson-Althoff, and children Sydney, John and Adam are recognized for their on-going support of Council Family and Life initiatives. They also support their parish and Bishop Manogue High School. Bro. Steve joined the Knights in July 2002.

September 2020

Giersch

Bro. Gordon and Lady Barbara Giersch have been active volunteers and participants in Council events ever since Gordon first retired in Sparks and joined the Council about a year ago. We have action shots of him staging parish events, both helping distribute winter wear at our Coats for Kids program, and both enjoying the holiday fare at the annual parish Christmas dinner. In addition to Sunday mass, both attend 1st Friday of the Month mass and spend an hour in Adoration of the Eucharist. On August 28th, they braved COVID-19 concerns and attended mass and an hour of meditation on the sanctity of life when the Silver Rose made its special visit to Holy Cross. They are an example to all of Faith in Action.

August 2020

Minter

The Council recognition "committee" is not easily swayed by fresh donuts and hot coffee for in-the-home meetings that are becoming de rigueur during the COVID-19 pandemic. Friendly greetings and puppy dog kisses from Duke and Duchess are certainly not a factor. However, it's a little much, especially when coupled with warm greetings and the welcoming hearts of SK George and Lady Joyce as they opened their home to some serious Council business that lasted over 5 hours. For all that, they have been selected as the August "Family of the Month". Could you please pass me that long John?

July 2020

Goucher

On June 27th, winds were gusting over 40mph. Forest fire smoke from nearby Peavine Mountain was in the air. It was the Council’s first hybrid Zoom® meeting ever. All attendees were socially distanced and masked up. The COVID-19 pandemic had devastated our budget, and what do we all remember? The home-grilled gourmet pub burgers!
We have no photos of the burgers. They are long gone. But we do have a photo of GK Chuck and Lady Linda with their stylish COVID-19 masks. For all the preparation and hard work to make the event a success, we honor them as Family of the Month for July.

June 2020

Lane

Those who have worked side by side with Mark and Judy Lane know what a great team they make. June’s Family of the Month recognition honors them for their ongoing commitment in the delivery of Sprouts Farmers Market surplus food and produce to area shelters and food banks, even micro-deliveries to families and individuals known to be in need but who cannot physically leave their place of residence due to old age or infirmity.

May 2020

Martonyi

In recognition of Andrew and Irma Martonyi expanding the Council's Food for Family program to include the timely distribution of surplus perishable food and produce donated by Sprouts Farmers Market. Not only is distribution made to local food shelters but also micro-deliveries to families and individuals known to be in need but who cannot physically leave their place of residence due to old age or infirmity.

April 2020

Barkley

For Thierry and Mary Ellen Barkley's continuing support of the Nevada Right to Life Friends for Life Dinner and Auction.

March 2020

Minter

George and Joyce are active members of Holy Cross Catholic Community and the Council. SK George is a past District Deputy, a Past Grand Knight and is currently a 2-year Trustee. He is also a Chief Squires Counselor and the State Squires Chairman. George and Joyce participate in many Diocesan, Parish and Knights events. SK George chairs many of our Council events and Joyce (aka "Den Mother") is always there helping as part of the “Ladies of the Knights”.

February 2020

Martonyi

Bro. Andrew and Lady Irma are very involved in both parish and Council ministries and activities. Andrew sings in the parish choir and instructs in the RCIA program. Both participate in Council fundraisers including being Co-chairs of the Best in the West Nugget Rib Cook Off. Bro. Andrew volunteered to fill the vacant Chancellor office and is leading the Council's mentoring and Shining Armor programs. He is also the Council Community Director and volunteers as an Officer (charity role) on the new Combined Degree Team. Lady Irma is always beside Andrew and is an outstanding “Lady of the Knight”.

January 2020

Bravo-Diaz

The Alberto Bravo-Diaz family is active in both Council and parish activities. They have participated in the Best in the West Nugget Nugget Rib Cook-off, the Reno National Championship Air Races fundraiser, in addition to volunteering at the Columbus Day and Christmas Dinners. Both are active in many of the parish activities and youth ministries. Their sons, Alejandro and Rodrigo are both active Columbian Squires. Alejandro plays the drums in the parish choir and Rodrigo just started as an Altar Server. Both have assisted as busboys and desert servers at dinners.

December 2019

Villanueva

Bro. Lusciano, Lady Icela and their children are very active in Holy Cross parish and Council programs. These include parish ministries, parish office duties, religious education and youth programs. They have also helped organize and put on many of Hispanic-theme events and programs. The Villanuevas participate in several Knights programs including R.I.S.E. and Dine food service and the Boys and Girls Club of Truckee Meadows Breakfast with Santa / Coats for Kids” programs.

November 2019

Lane

Bro. Mark and Lady Judy have volunteered and attended numerous Council and parish activities including the Best in the West Nugget Rib Cook-off, UNR football game beer booth concessions, the Holy Cross Christmas Dinner, the Breakfast with Santa program, and the developing Council roundtable in Lovelock, NV. Lady Judy participates with the “Ladies of the Knights” at events with Mark and is involved with several parish ministries. Bro. Mark stepped up to fill the much needed vacant Inside Guard position.

October 2019

Holleman

SK Robert and Lady Lisa have volunteered at numerous Council events including major fundraisers such as the Best in the West Nugget Rib Cook Off (Assistant Chairs, 6 days), the Reno National Championship Air Races (6 days), the Holy Cross Parish Picnic, the Breakfast with Santa program and as Assistant Chairs for Feeding the Homeless programs. Both are Eucharistic ministers. Lady Lisa is a very active participant in the Council's “Ladies of the Knights” program.

September 2019

Bilka

Bro. John and Lady Mary exemplify what a Catholic family should be. They help with many Council events including the Council's biggest fundraiser “RARA” where they volunteered far beyond their original commitment when the Council became short on volunteers. Their daughter Ivy and son in-law Scott Spencer, also a Council 4928 member, also volunteered at “RARA”. In the past year, John and Mary Ann have also helped at R.I.S.E. and Dine events, the Breakfast with Santa and the Coats for Kids programs. Mary Ann made scarves for the Coats for Kids program and John takes care of our aluminum can recycling program which helps fund our BMCHS and College scholarship programs.

August 2019

McClain

Bro. Ron and Lady Marsha and sons Connor and Cameron are recognized for all the work they do for the parish. Among other activities, Ron and Marsha are Eucharistic Ministers. Connor and Cameron are Columbian Squires and Altar Servers.

July 2019

Roberts

Bro. Randy is the Council's go-to leader whenever Holy Cross parish grounds are in need of maintenance such as sage brush cleanup in the fall, or when parish and/or Council programs require staging and/or set up for such events as picnics, dinners, and special religious/organizational events. Lady Susie is very active in parish ministries.

June 2019

Schiwart

SK Steve and Lady Debbi are very busy people at Holy Cross Catholic Community. Both serve as Eucharistic ministers, and SK Steve serves as a lector and as an usher. Sadly, both refuse to sing in the choir! Steve finished his time of service as the Council Grand Knight having achieved Star Council. He also serves as the State Co-chair for the Pilgrimage of the Silver Rose program. SK Steve continues to participate in just about every Council activity, offering his full support to GK Chuck Goucher. Lady Debbi attends almost all Council events when not conflicted with her Co-chair responsibilities for the Holy Cross Women’s Group. This is a couple always on the go.

May 2019

Gannon

Bro. Michael and Lady Jenny are recognized as Family of the Month for their quick reaction and volunteer service in support of the Mother’s Day Flowers program.

April 2019

Pagni

Bro. Robin and Lady Christi for their support with aging veterans on VA Bingo Night at the VA Hospital.

March 2019

Minter

Past Grand Knight George and Lady Joyce are recognized for teaming up to make the St. Patrick’s Day Dinner a success. They also got bonus points for wearing traditional Irish dress.

February 2019

Suhl

SK Greg and Lady Danette for their continuing support of parish Eucharistic Ministry, gift bearers and choir participation.

January 2019

Gannon

Bro. Michael is recognized for his Council photographic journalism and Outside Guard duties, and Lady Jenny for her photographic smiles while both are volunteering in support of Council service activities, most recently, the Breakfast with Santa / Coats for Kids programs.

December 2018

Diaz

SK Mario and Lady Cherall were both very generous with their volunteer time. Mario is a past Grand Knight and drawing on his financial and computer background, is currently active as a Council Trustee. He is particularly supportive of the military, active in the 4th Degrees and initiated the Council's Holiday Cards for the Troops. Cherell is active in the parish and has recently opened her home to Christmas events.

November 2018

Legarreta

The Hector E. Legarreta family including, but not limited to Hector E., Melina, Paulina, Cesar, Edwardo, and Hector Jr. are recognized for their help in working at UNR football game beer ports

October 2018

Mroskey-Farhat

SK Tom Mroskey and Ms. Michelle Farhat are recognized for their spirited volunteering hours cooking and grilling in support of several Council and Parish events, RARA support, most recently Special Olympics leadership and support.

August 2018

Martonyi

Bro. Andrew and Lady Irma are recognized for their help at the SONshine Summer picnic lunch; their continuing active participation in the R.I.S.E. and Dine program to feed the needy, and their volunteering in support of the Best in the West Nugget Rib Cook off.

July 2018

Villanueva

Bro. Luciano and Lady Isela are recognized for all their countless hours of support of Council and parish activities including the Parish Council and the Spanish Council.

June 2018

Schiwart

SK Steve and Lady Debbie are recognized as the Council's June Family of the Month. Steve for his on-going Council leadership and for making the Council great again by achieving Star status, and Debbie for her leadership in the parish Women’s Group including craft programs, the Casa de Vida Home for Girls baby goods drive, and both fore R.I.S.E and Dine participation. At times, their second home appears to be the Gathering Space during weekend masses.

April 2018

Gonzales

Council Family Director SK Augustin, Lady Rose and son David were recognized by Supreme as Family of the Month for April 2018. They have contributed greatly to the success of Council family and youth programs, fraternal events, parish support and Council fundraising. A truly deserving family.

March 2018

Minter/Gonzalez

The Minters and Gonzalez's shared the March Family Of The Month for their hard work on the Council's Saint Patrick's Day dinner party. They assisted with set-up and decorating Saint Joseph's Hall and stayed until the end for clean-up and re-setting everything. Joyce and Rose conducted a raffle of donated prizes and raised $270.00 for the KofC Nevada State Seminarian Education Raffle Fund

February 2018

McClain

Bro. Ron, Lady Marsha, and sons Connor and Cameron are all recognized for their family-wide participation in a Columbian Squires Circle Lenten food drive for Sr. Carmen's Food Pantry at Our Lady of the Snows Parish.

January 2018

Cochran

SK Marv and Lady Leslie are recognized for the support for the Breakfast with Santa, Coats for Kids, and the support for the Diocese Of Reno Annual Diocesan Conference.

November 2017

Lane

Bro. Mark and Lady Judy are recognized as the November Family of the Month for all their time and effort expended to help stage and decorate the Worship Area and the back classrooms, and to help manage and support the Holy Cross Beer and Wine Tasting, Silent and Live Auction event. Their volunteerism helped the parish to achieve their best fundraising year ever.

October 2017

Flores Jr.

Bro Elenterio (June) and Lady Gwen are recognized for their contributions in time and energy toward the Council's fundraising success at the Reno National Championship Air Races, and their support at the Holy Cross Parish Picnic and the Columbus Day Dinner.

September 2017

Holleman

Recent transferees from Pahrump, NV, SK Bob and Lady Lisa have been a great addition to the Council. This team has volunteered at the Best in the West Nugget Rib Cook-off and the Reno National Championship Air Races helping make these fundraisers a success.

August 2017

Sanchez

Juan and Xochitl have been selected as the Family of the Month for August in recognition of their continuing contribution as Choir Directors at the 12:30pm Sunday mass.

July 2017

Silis

Brother Raul, Lady Yasmin and Columbian Squire Jamir are all recognized for their program support of the SONshine Summer Youth Camp and the picnic BBQ that capped the event.

June 2017

Minter

In recognition to SK George as the Council's out-going Treasurer, Past Grand Knight and now new District 2 Deputy, and to Lady Joyce for all her participation and support to help make the Council's program a success.

May 2017

Herrera

SK Elvis and Lady Mayra are recognized for all the hard work they within the Hispanic community, particularly among youth, and developing Hispanic interest in the Knights of Columbus fraternal organization.

April 2017

McClain

Bro. Ron and Lady Marsha McClain and Columbian Squires sons Connor and Cameron for their all their hard work on the Sr. Carmen’s Food Pantry Lenten food drive.

April 2017

Althoff

Dr. Steven M. Althoff and family for all their financial support and volunteerism given to Holy Cross Catholic Community and the Knights of Columbus.

March 2017

del Real

Bro. del Real and Lady Josie are recognized for making the Water Springs Diner available for the Council's Columbus Day Dinner honoring those who volunteered in our major fundraisers.

February 2017

Martonyi

The Martonyi family is recognized for organizing and running the R.I.S.E. and Dine program that provides hands-on food service meals for the homeless, as well as volunteer commitments to several other Holy Cross parish ministries. Bro. Andrew and Lady Irma also contribute to several other Council service initiatives including Operation Homeless Connect. The Council also recognizes Andrew’s participation in the parish choir.

January 2017

De Ricco

Bro. Christopher P. De Ricco and family are recognized for their Breakfast with Santa support and leading the Columbian Squires to the most successful Sgt. Frankie Zaehringer Operation Toy Box drive to date raising and donating approximately $2,850.00 in toys to area pediatric hospital wards.

December 2016

Mann

SK Richard and Lady Angela are recognized for all they do for the Boy Scouts of America both as Charter Representative and in the case of Angela, as Scout Council publicist and Church Bulletin publicist. A great family team.

December 2016

Ward

SK Robert and Lady Mary are recognized for all their hard work in support of Council activities including, but not limited to UNR football concessions and Project Homeless Connect. They make a great team.

November 2016

Legarreta

The Legarreta family are extremely active in the parish, the Council, and in the Guadalupano Council. Daughter Melina leads the Hispanic Youth Ministry. Bro. Hector E. worked the UNR Football concession stand, and he and Fernando prepared Mexican cuisine for the Council's very successful Ultrasound Fundraiser in June, as well as the Parish Picnic in August. Bro. Hector helped prepare hamburgers and hot dogs for the Youth Ministry Retreat, an event chaired by Melina. All family members pitch in at a variety of events.

October 2016

Mager

Bro. George and Lady Mary are recognized for all their steadfast support at the UNR football concessions fundraiser, for participating in Council-sponsored events and parish picnics, and for their devotion to the parish music ministry including participation in the Holy Cross choir.

September 2016

Minter

PGK George and Lady Joyce worked incredibly hard and long hours in September raising the largest portion of the Council funds for the Fraternal Year. They chaired 5 days of work at the Nugget Rib Cookoff. They were on site working 12-14 hour days for all five days of the Reno Air Races. Together, they are the Council's hardest-working family team.

August 2016

Melendez

The SK Herb and Lady Mirna family sets the example for dedication and service to the Parish. They are there whenever anything is happening, whether routine ministries at masses or special occasions such as the Pilgrimage of the Silver Rose, the Parish Picnic and Council service initiatives.

July 2016

Gannon

Bro. Michael and Lady Jenny are a new Knight/spouse team who seems to be helping everywhere including, most recently, the Ultrasound Food Fest and the SONshine Summer Youth Camp picnic. We would capture pictures of them in action, but he always has the camera.

June 2016

Martonyi

Bro. Andrew and Lady Irma Martonyi are recognized as the Council's Family of the Month for June for their superb efforts for our Ultrasound machine fundraiser drive. As the KOC Nevada Pro-Life chairman stated, "We couldn't have done this without them".

May 2016

Jasinski

SK Vince and Lady Elizabeth celebrated their 50th Wedding Anniversary. They have been most supportive of Council activities and the Bishop Manogue 612 Assembly where SK Vince is a member of the Color Corps. That commitment to the Knights of Columbus has continued even after Vince suffered a stroke. They are exemplary Catholics and a suprb example for us all.

April 2016

Barkley

SK Thierry and Lady Mary Ellen are recognized for all their behind the scenes support of the Nevada State Council, Ponderosa Council, the Columbian Squires Circle and the Marvin Piccolo special needs program.

March 2016

Richner

SK Howard and Lady Barbara are alway there to help. They are ministers and ushers at Sunday masses. They set up and beautifully decorated St. Joseph's Hall for the St. Patrick's Day Party enjoyed by the whole parish.

February 2016

Mathews

Patricia and SK Brian and Lady Patricia are recognized for their service to the nation in the US Marine Corps and to the Church: Brian in Reno National Championship Air Races, the Tootsie Roll drive, and the UNR Football concessions. Lady Patricia for her contributions to the parish music ministry.

January 2016

Harris

SK Jack and Lady Lou are a very dynamic and hard-working couple who have supported many of the Council's charitable works. Most recently they were central figures in the Diocese of Reno Diocesan Conference, the Bishop’s Youth Rally and Project Homeless Connect.

December 2015

Lyninger

SK John and Lady Lisa are recognized for portrayal of Santa and Mrs. Claus and bringing joy to all the kids at the Boys and Girls Club of Truckee Meadows Breakfast with Santa Program, and at many other area locations during the month of December.

November 2015

Roberts

Whenever the Council or the Church needs help, Bro. Randy and Lady Susie quietly appear, do the job, and disappear. For the Holy Cross parish's largest fundraiser of the year, the Bear and Wine Tasting and Live and Silent Auction, before the Council got started, the Roberts were already done cleaning up the grounds and they were the last to leave cleaning up after the big gala. They are selfless givers.

October 2015

Schiwart

SK Steve and Lady have served the Holy Cross Catholic Community and the Knights of Columbus ceaselessly month after month. They serve together at 10:30 Mass very Sunday in many liturgical roles. SK Steve is not just the Council Financial Secretary and the Assembly Faithful Navigator, he is also the leader, and many times, the key player in every Council activity from the Reno National Championship Air Races, to Degrees Exemplifications, to running the UNR football concessions. Debbie is the leader of the parish Women’s Group and is always there to work parish events.

September 2015

Minter

SK George and Lady Joyce are a dedicated hard-working couple who have contributed to nearly every Council event in recent months including manning booths at the Best in the West Nugget Rib Cook-off, the manning of concession stands at the UNRa football games, working brutal 12-hour days for a whole week at the Reno National Championship Air Races, plus preparing food and serving the parish at the Holy Cross Sonshine Summer Youth program, the Parish Picnic and the needy at R.I.S.E. and Dine. Nobody has given more time and effort to the Council than this family team.

September 2015

Martonyi

Bro. Andrew and Lady Irma are recognized for working five days at the Best in the West Nugget Rib Cook Off, UNR Football game #2 and the R.I.S.E. and Dine program food lines.

August 2015

Roberts

Bro. Randy is recognized for all the maintenance work that he performs at Holy Cross parish including painting all the parking lot curbs and the parking space lines. It was a huge undertaking. Lady Susie serves on the Parish Council and participates in the RCIA program. She also teams up with Randy to volunteer at many of the Council activities.

July 2015

Johnson

Bro. Robert Sr. joined the Council in April 2013. His son, Robert, Jr., is a Charter Member of the Fr. Art Herkowski Columbian Squires Circle 5686 and is a proud Altar Server at Holy Cross parish. Lady Christina stays busy as a Confirmation instructor at Holy Cross parish and is working on the formation of a Squirettes of the Roses Circle for the parish girls. Robert Sr. continues to volunteer with the Squires Circle and he and his family were part of the first Holy Cross Youth Ministry event where he helped cook hot dogs and hamburgers. The Johnsons attend mass every Sunday as a family.

June 2015

Morris

SK Mike and Lady Carla are recognized for their many contributions. These contributions include participating at several UNR football concession stand games, working at the Diocesan Conference and at the Bishop's Youth Rally in March as a husband-wife team. In June they came to the parish clean-up. To improve curb appeal they furnished at their own expense landscape bark. Mike is a PGK, a FN for Bishop Manogue Assembly 612, and a 3-Year Trustee for our Council.

May 2015

Mann

SK Richard and Lady Angela are recognized for their Pro-Life witness and for their active roles in weekly masses. Richard handles all of the Council's work with Scouting and Angela provides promotional and marketing support for the parish including producing the weekly parish bulletin.

April 2015

Melendez

The SK Herb and Lady Mirna family contributes a great amount of time and energy to Holy Cross parish. Every member performs significant roles in the liturgy, week after week after week, but especially participation during Holy Week. Their role playing in the Living Stations of the Cross on Good Friday was an inspiration to the whole parish.

March 2015

Pagni

Bro. Robin and Lady Christi made the Council's St. Patrick's Day Dinner celebration a complete success. They worked together, tirelessly, for several hours, setting up, decorating, cooking, serving in addition to staying to the bitter end to clean up. Whatta couple!

February 2015

Harris

SK Jack and Lady Lou have constantly been at the forefront in leading, helping and promoting many Knight's activities. They organized and ran the support of several local Councils for the Annual Diocesan Conference. They worked hard at our Council Helping the Homeless project, in which 160 Coats for Kids were handed out in conjunction with scores of other Catholic Services to over 1,500 homeless on the streets of Reno. Most recently they organized and ran a most successful Military Appreciation Dinner.

January 2015

Minter

SK George and Lady Joyce have energized the Council to new heights of achievement. The latest charitable event they championed was to help thousands of persons and families in need thru the Diocese of Reno Catholic Charities Day of Outreach in Reno. The Council donated winter coats under the Coats for Kid program, and assisted people in need to get other clothes, food, health services, free haircuts, access to social workers and many other services.

December 2014

DeRicco

Bro. Chris and his sons in the Columbian Squires Circle have been prominent in raising charity for hospitalized children at Christmas time by organizing and running the Frankie Zaehringer Operation Toy Box at Holy Cross parish. Their efforts have provided many toys and gift cards to young people confined to the hospital at St. Mary’s and Renown over the Christmas holiday.

November 2014

Steve and Debbie Schiwart

Steve led a huge effort to raise money for the Council by organizing and conducting teams of Knights who ran the concessions stand at all University of Nevada home football games this season. They netted about $8000. Debbie works every week in several parish ministries.

October 2014

Hill

SK Bob, a convert to the faith, and Lady Anne have been stalwart supporters of both the Knights of Columbus and Church activities for over half a century. Bob is a 35 year Honorary Life and Fourth Degree member. He is a past Grand Knight and Financial Secretary. He and Anne take an active role in all Council and many State activities, whether it be working the Reno Air Races, cooking pancake breakfasts, taking part in Degree ceremonials, handing out Tootsie Rolls ... whatever the Order needs. He is also the primary sacristan and usher for every Sunday 8:30am Mass.

September 2014

John and Mary Ann Bilka

John and Mary Ann were totally invested in making the Knights' fundraiser at the Reno Air Races a huge success. In addition to setting up the work space for the Knights' Box Seat Cooler Deliveries operation, John worked all week on the Cooler Crew. Mary Ann set up and ran the Ice Sales operation.

August 2014

Howard and Barbara Richner

For their tireless work on many parish projects, especially Sonshine Summer and their work preparing for Wine Tasting and Silent Auction.

July 2014

Herb and Mirna Melendez

Council Warden and Herb, Mirna and ALL five sons and daughters serve as Knights, Squires, Altar Servers, Lectors, Eucharistic Ministers and Herbert translates Father Jose's homilies into Spanish at 12:30 Masses. All serve on the Parish Guadalupana Council

June 2014

George and Joyce Minter

Sustained work with Squires and decided to take on Council leadership as Grand Knight