67th anniversary banquet held in Mingo

MINGO JUNCTION -- Members of the Mingo Knights of Columbus Council 4361, recently held their annual Past Grand Knights Awards Banquet. This was the 67th anniversary of the event, according to organizers.

Grand Knight Shawn Zarych explained the event centers around honoring a chaplain, youth, family, knight and lady of the year.

"Our committee submits a list of nominees and then selects one which stands out," Zarych said. The committee receives letters for each nomination then reviews the submissions. Once chosen, they advance to the Knights of Columbus state competition, where they have the possibility of being a diocesean winner.

Award winner the Rev. James Dunfee earned the Chaplain of the Year Award. Dunfee serves as Knight chaplain and pastor at St. Agnes Church in Mingo.

The Family of the Year Award went to Joseph and Renee Wnek. Officials stated the Wnek family are faithful Catholics who attend Mass at St. Agnes Church every Sunday. Family members are involved in social activities to help serve their community.

The Youth of the Year Award went to Andrew Dorsey, a senior at Steubenville Catholic Central High School. Dorsey is active in sports and a member of Triumph of the Cross at Holy Rosary Church.

Keith Crispino was the recipient of the Knight of the Year. He is faithful to St. Anthony Church in Follansbee and is a "very helpful person who is always there when you need him," according to Zarych.

Lady of the Year was awarded to Jennifer Fabian. She attends St. Agnes Church and is instrumental in helping with the club's fish fry and other events of council.

All guests received a tumbler which displays a logo of the Mingo Knights. In addition, door prizes were awarded.

During the festivities, thanks were given to the ladies of St. Agnes CWC who helped with this year's fish fry.

A presentation was held introducing Donald M. Temple, former grand Knight; and Baci Carpico, past grand Knight and former state deputy.

Dunfee gave the blessing and prayer prior to dinner, which was prepared by Leigh and Ray Johnson of Ohio Catering.