COUNCIL RECOGNITION

KNIGHTS OF THE MONTH

May 2025

Russell Parolisi

The Knight of the Month for May goes to a recent member of our council, but a long-time member of the Knights in another council. When he transferred to our council, he must have been impressed, because he brought in his younger brother to join us. They are both active in our council. Most recently, Russ volunteered and coordinated our annual “Mothers Day” Birthright carnation distribution, never having done that project before. Along with other brothers, he coordinated the pickup and additional appeal in support of Birthright of Derry and their wonderful ministry.

April 2025

Bob George III

Bob was awarded the Knight of the Month for his leadership and initiative in organizing our first Council Lenten Fish Fry. Two events were held and many members and wives helped out to make the events a financial and team building and fellowship event. The certificate was presented by Chancellor Joe Balzano, acting for the Grand Knight this meeting.

March 2025

Peter Kish

Brother Peter joined our order last year during our February membership drive. This busy father of two finds the opportunity to participate in meetings, events, and many prayer opportunities of our council and parish. This brother finds himself as a part of St. Basil’s Curculio team many times within the calendar year spending 3.5 days at a time. During the recent Divine Dinner Dates, he and his wife were an integral part of the program’s success. His father (who’s voice we have heard at mass) is a Knight and has been for some years now, and attends these meetings occasionally. Brother Peter Kish is a great example of what a Knight can exemplify.

February 2025

Ronald Bourque

The Knight of the Month for February is Ron Bourque. By Grand Knight Tarara- “From the time he joined our Council, Brother Ron truly exemplified service to others. This Brother is no secret to anyone, and once you speak to him it is clear he is a dedicated Catholic Man who exemplifies what Blessed Michael McGivney seeks in the creation of the Knights of Columbus. You would see this Brother at every 7:30am mass at St. Joseph. From fighting for the unborn, assisting with the running of Bingo, and being the State of New Hampshire Program Director. It is an honor to follow in Ron’s footsteps as the Past Grand Knight for four years. Thanks for all you do for our Council, state and order.”

January 2025

Christopher Conard

To recognize outstanding accomplishments of one of our members, the Knight of the Month for January is Chris Conard. This brother is also a “behind the Scenes Knight. “ He arranges and conducts many events including the pre-meeting Rosary, Lectio Devina, Men’s Prayer Breakfast, COR, Men’s Movie Night, Men of St. Joseph, Retreat organizations, and more. He is our 3-Year Trustee and is a man centered in his Catholic Faith. We are fortunate to have him in our parish and Council. Because of Chris, we are one of very few Councils to have started the COR program. Thank you, Chris.

December 2024

Albert Cormier

To recognize the outstanding accomplishments of one of our members, the Knight of the Month for December is Al Cormier. This brother makes it happen behind the scenes and delivers service with a smile. Whether it is working on a new Budget, dispersing donation checks, advising committee heads how to request funding support and properly spend any allocated money, advising the Council officers on any financial issues, plus working with his wife on various Parish projects, Al is on the job.

November 2024

J. Paul Lavoie

To recognize an outstanding accomplishment of one of our members, The Knight of the Month is Paul Lavoie. This brother makes it happen behind the scenes and delivers service with a smile. Whether it is a project at the rectory, landscaping at church or renovating parish structures, Paul is involved. Paul is a long time Knight and Facility Manager of the Church at the parish’s call when something is needed. We have much to thank Paul for as we see his impacts everywhere. !

October 2024

Rick Veilleux

Rick Veilleux, PGK – Executed the organization and delivery of the food, tents, and labor to help the now annual fundraiser. Through his leadership we made calculated decisions to increase profits to the church and decrease workload for others. Thank you to Rick for heading up this effort! You bring a great example of Charity, Unity, and Fraternity!

September 2024

Julien Roy

Julien Roy – This brother is always there, and maybe not one you see in the “spotlight”. From helping fix something (usually on a ladder), or offering to put something together. One of the most recent examples is his ability to offer up filling the role of Inside Guard, no questions asked! We all know him. Thank you Julien!

August 2024

Joseph Procacini

Joe was named the August KOM for his volunteering to take over the ZOOM and screen projection during our monthly business meetings, as well as his chairmanship of the Altar Server Recognition program. Joe is presented the KOM certificate by the Deputy GK John Polcari, while GK Ken was traveling with his family.

July 2024

R. Peter Klecan

Pete volunteered and organized the cookout for the Music Ministry concert June 28. By delivering on a free-will cookout, it helped the Ministry raise over $3,000 for repairs and replacements of current musical instruments.

June 2024

Karl Armano

Karl is a recent transfer from a council in Lawrence and has done an admirable job of assimilating to our Council 4442. He has been very active in parish events from Men of St. Joseph meeting, Saturday morning prayer group, setting up chairs for an event, walking the Way of the Cross, or just offering up his time for the betterment of our Council and faith.

May 2024

Wes Suszek

Wes and his wife, Marilyn, have tirelessly supported the Salem Community for decades. Most recently, he has been helping a family from Africa to find a home here. They supported the family spiritually, financially, and physically transporting them around the Merrimack Valley. The family has finally landed into an apartment which Wes, with some help from brother Knights, helped them find. Thank you, Wes.

April 2024

Michael Davis

The postponed Award for April was presented to Michael Davis for organizing the Walking Way of the Cross event and keeping the event alive.

March 2024

Robert Fournier

Bob was recognized for his many years (at least 23!) of service as the council treasurer.

February 2024

Norm Comeau

Norm was recognized for his outstanding efforts in the February membership drive. He and his team recruited 21 new members to the council. Great efforts brought forth outstanding results!

January 2024

David Demers

Knight of the Month –The postponed Award for December was presented to Dave Demers for the execution of the Christmas meals on Christmas Day. Over 200 meals were given out, most delivered to the homes of the recipients by Knight volunteers on Christmas Day. no photo avaiilable.

December 2023

Stillman "Butch" Kealey

Butch Kealey was named the Knight of the Month for his work in preparing the post-Christmas Salem parade luncheon at the hall.

November 2023

Richard (Rick) Veilleux

Awarded to Rick for his tireless work planning, recruiting member help, and executing the Harvest Fest event last month. And serving up a great burger, chips, and soda.

October 2023

R. Peter Klecan

"Pete" Klecan was recognized for his efforts with organizing and directing the action for the annual Tootsie Roll campaign. We raised over $11,300 for "People with Intellectual Difficulties." In addition, Pete is our Respect Life director, and he and wife Kristen take part in many prayer vigils for "life".

September 2023

Christopher Conard

For his many activities for the good of the church and Council, including leading the Rosary before Council meetings, serving as a Trustee and hosting Men’s Night Out movies.

August 2023

None

July 2023

Joe Balzano

Joe was recognized for providing an Italian repast at the Men’s Movie Night in the parish.