News-bits Shared By Our Caravans
News-bits Shared By Our Caravans
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Does your Caravan have something you would like us to share on this page?
If so, please email webnews@orderalhambra.org. You may also Click Here to submit oversized files.
Memorable Spring Dinner Dance for Special Olympics Bowlers
Memorable Spring Dinner Dance for Special Olympics Bowlers
March 20, 2025
March 20, 2025
Alhamar Caravan No. 4 organized a delightful spring dinner dance for Special Olympics bowlers and their guests at King's College, Sheehy-Farmer Campus Center. DJ Joseph Hussey from Jester Entertainment provided music, while Chartwells catered a sit-down meal. Gifted raffle prizes enhanced the event for the athletes.
Alhamar Caravan No. 4 extends heartfelt gratitude to the corporate sponsors who made the event possible: Bonner Chevrolet in Kingston, Peoples Security Bank and Trust in Kingston, and Diamond Manufacturing in West Wyoming. Special thanks also go to Evans King Floral in Forty Fort and Booyah! Burgers & Bites in Wyoming for their generous in-kind donations.
During the event, Grand Commander Donna Magni presented a donation from Alhamar's charity fund to The Luzerne Foundation. The mayor of Wilkes-Barre, George C. Brown, accepted the check on behalf of the foundation. Mayor Brown has been a steadfast supporter of individuals with special needs for many years, and the funds will be used for the Bog All Inclusive Playground in Miners Mill.
Another highlight of the evening was the recognition of Ryan Pettipaw, a senior marketing major at King's College. Grand Commander Magni awarded Ryan a certificate of appreciation and a monetary gift for his dedicated volunteer work with Special Olympics bowlers over the past three years. Ryan has coordinated spring and Halloween dances for the athletes and recruited King's College student volunteers to assist with events. His contributions will be greatly missed.
The athletes particularly enjoyed the music and dancing with King's College student volunteers, making it a fun-filled evening!
St. Francis Camp on the Lake Celebrates 40th Anniversary with Gala Fundraiser
St. Francis Camp on the Lake Celebrates 40th Anniversary with Gala Fundraiser
February 29, 2025
February 29, 2025
St. Francis Camp on the Lake which serves children and adults with intellectual disabilities, marked its 40th anniversary with a gala fundraiser in St. Clair Shores, Michigan. By all accounts, the event was a resounding success.
The evening featured a wonderful dinner catered by Marchiori Catering, with musical entertainment provided by Sir Noble and DJ Rob Wojtylo. Guests were each given a box of special culinary treats; including delicious macaroons and deluxe chocolates crafted by students at the Rising Stars Academy, an institution dedicated to providing educational opportunities for disabled adults. Attendees also received beautiful glass mementos made by the students.
The gala was filled with excitement, including raffles, drawings, and prizes. The Master of Ceremonies, SN Mike Malinowski, paid tribute to the late Past Supreme Scribe and camp supporter Gary Decarlo by raising a special mug in his memory. Heartfelt speeches were delivered by parents of former campers and past Camp Director Tammy Kerchkof also shared her thoughts on how the camp impacts the children it serves.
St. Francis Camp on the Lake is jointly owned by several Alhambra Caravans from Michigan, Region VI. The camp’s success over the past 40 years is a testament to the dedication of countless volunteers and the generosity of donors. Highlighting the evening, Michigan Knights of Columbus State Deputy Barry Borsenik surprised attendees with a generous $20,000 donation from their annual K of C Tootsie Roll drive. Camp presidents both past and present can't say enough about their deep gratitude for the unwavering support from the Knights over the years. On top of this, Alhambra’s Galicia, Manresa, and Sancho Caravans each contributed $4,000 to $5,000 in further support of the camp.
On behalf of St. Francis Camp on the Lake, thank you to all our sponsors, donors and everyone who attended or played some small part in the success of the 40th Anniversary Gala.
Memorial Service for Local Alhambran and Sultanas
Memorial Service for Local Alhambran and Sultanas
February 2, 2025
February 2, 2025
Galicia Caravan No. 77 held its annual Memorial Service to honor local Alhambrans and Sultanas who passed away over the past year. Members of Sancho Caravan No. 216 also attended the service. Together, they prayed for Sir and Lady Nobles: Rev. Robert Hayes William III, Stan Brazier, Barbara Kaiser, Ronald Lesniak, Gloria Longueuil, PSS Gary De Carlo, and Walter Ziemniak, along with Sultanas: Sister Noreen Tenbush, Paula Kreinbring, and Dolores Merecki. Special thanks were extended to chaplain Fr. Ronald DeHondt and the parishioners of St. Margaret of Scotland Church in St. Clair Shores, MI, for graciously allowing the use of their church and parish hall.
Special Olympics Bowlers Enjoy A Hockey Game In Style!
Special Olympics Bowlers Enjoy A Hockey Game In Style!
January 26, 2025
January 26, 2025
Alhamar Caravan No. 4 extended heartfelt thanks to the Wilkes-Barre Scranton Penguins hockey team and ASM Global for their generous donation of 35 hockey tickets, VIP parking passes, and an upper suite for the Penguins' game on January 26th. The attendees enjoyed a fantastic experience in the private suite. Bonner Chevrolet in Kingston, sponsored an array of delicious treats including hot dogs, pizza, waffle fries, bottomless popcorn, and drinks.
The event was a memorable one for the Special Olympics bowlers, members, and guests, who watched the game in style. The day's theme, "Kid's Takeover," featured visits from local community mascots, adding to the already exciting atmosphere. The celebration was further highlighted by a special cake for TUX, the team's mascot, in honor of his birthday. The excitement peaked with the Penguins securing a victory. Go Penguins!
A New Director for St Francis Camp
A New Director for St Francis Camp
January 6, 2025
January 6, 2025
St. Francis Camp on the Lake which is run by the Caravans of Michigan Region VI is pleased to announce that Hillsdale native Joshua Brink has joined the team as Camp Director. Read more about Joshua on the camp's website by clicking this link.
Deacon Tim Maxwell Joins the Order of Alhambra
Deacon Tim Maxwell Joins the Order of Alhambra
December 18, 2024
December 18, 2024
On Wednesday, Galicia Caravan No. 77 held a mini ceremonial. Deacon Tim Maxwell Dean of Students at St. Thecla Catholic School in Clinton Township, MI joined the caravan becoming Galicia's newest Sir Noble. Years ago, Tim was awarded an Alhambra Scholarship to assist him with his education as a special education teacher and now has over 30 years of experience in this field. Welcome to team Galicia and the Order of Alhambra, Deacon Tim!
GC Kevin Owens in the Spotlight
GC Kevin Owens in the Spotlight
December 2024
December 2024
Kevin Owens '85 exemplifies what it means to be a True Man of Benedictine, carrying the values instilled in him through his service in law enforcement and his leadership within the International Order of Alhambra. With a distinguished 34-year career in law enforcement, Kevin's deeper connection to service shines through his role as Grand Commander of the Cleveland-based Carmona Caravan of Alhambra. This Catholic organization, dedicated to serving individuals with disabilities, reflects the same Benedictine principles of faith, community, and service to others…
…Benedictine's connection to Alhambra runs deep. Prominent alumni like Bishop Roger Gries '54, member & Spiritual Director, Kenny Kovac '72 and others along with Brother Nicholas Spisak, OSB have been active members of the Carmona Caravan. Together, they embody the mission of service and fellowship, making a lasting impact on the lives of those with disabilities.
(Read the complete article in the Winter 2024 Issue of Ora et Labora, page 22)
Region VI Joins SFC in a Celebration of Christmas
Region VI Joins SFC in a Celebration of Christmas
December 9, 2024
December 9, 2024
Region VI Council of Caravans and St. Francis Camp on the Lake hosted their annual joint Christmas party at the Ukrainian Cultural Center in Warren, Michigan. It was a wonderful occasion to reconnect with old friends and embrace the holiday spirit. Everyone enjoyed great food and a good time together!
Santa Comes to School
Santa Comes to School
December 6, 2024
December 6, 2024
Members of Manresa Caravan No. 217 asked Santa Claus if he could take a little time out of his busy schedule to visit with some of their favorite school children. How could he resist?
Have You Ever Heard of St. Joseph of Cupertino?
Have You Ever Heard of St. Joseph of Cupertino?
September 18, 2024
September 18, 2024
Considered the patron saint of air travelers, students, and people with intellectual disabilities. To learn more, read this short synopsis of St. Joseph of Cupertino on the University of Notre Dame Alumni Association's Faith ND website.
Festival for People with Intellectual Disabilities
Festival for People with Intellectual Disabilities
August 18, 2024
August 18, 2024
Alhamar Caravan No. 4 put on a festival for people with intellectual disabilities at the Polish American Veterans Pavilion in the Hudson section of Wilkes-Barre, PA. Martin Kane was named as honoree in the program's ad booklet. It was an honor to recognize his incredible kindness and dedication to his brother with special needs. His brother Tommy is a Special Olympics athlete who has been part of the Up & Down Bowlers for over twenty-five years. Martin faithfully drives Tommy every Saturday morning to Chacko's Bowling Center so he can bowl hardly ever missing a week. His charity also extends to two other Special Olympics athletes to whom he has given rides for more than ten years and five years respectively. Whether it be a dinner dance or some other special (needs) occasion Martin has provided consistent and reliable transportation for these athletes. Martin, a now-retired English teacher worked at Bishop Hoban High School for over twenty-five years until its closing then spent the remainder of his career at Holy Redeemer High School. He is a parishioner of St. Mary's Church of the Immaculate Conception and lives in Wilkes-Barre with his brother Tommy. Alhamar Caravan No. 4 is very grateful to Martin for being such a dear friend to God's Special People. Martin and Tommy were presented with a nice gift for the occasion.
The festival had hot dogs, hamburgers, corn on the cob, ice cream, sweets, and plenty of soda for all. There were plush toys, T-shirts, and raffle prizes donated by local businesses for each special needs individual. Entertainment was provided by The Brown Initiative. The guests were so thrilled with the music they moved a picnic table out of the way to make more room for dancing! Bubbles floated throughout the air. Tux the mascot of the Wilkes-Barre, Scranton Penguins Hockey team even made a surprise visit. As you might imagine, Tux took a lot of pictures and received RAVE reviews from the guests. In the spirit of FUN he interacted with the guests; even heading out to play catch with them in the field. It was an all-around FANTASTIC day which could not have been possible without all the supporters and volunteers!
The caravan would like to thank their corporate sponsor Mrozinski Electric, LLC, West Pittston, and the many other sponsors who made this day possible with monetary or in-kind donations.
The DAY was so JOYFUL, such a success with So MANY smiles.
Council of Viziers Board Meeting
Council of Viziers Board Meeting
July 19-20, 2024
July 19-20, 2024
The Order of Alhambra Council of Viziers met in July in Baton Rouge, LA. SC Cliff Dake led the group in some rousing discussion about the present state of the Order and the importance of growing the membership for the future of the Order. Like many other fraternal organizations, dwindling membership and the introduction of new members is always a growing concern.
A highlight of the meeting, the COV honored our Supreme Chaplain, Fr. Paul Ballien for his 25 years of service to God and His people. SC Cliff Dake and SA Vince Braun presented Fr. with memento and a check to be used for the charity(s) of his choice.
The COV and their families are next looking forward to the Convention being planned for 2025!
Bikes, Helmets and Locks for Special Education Students
Bikes, Helmets and Locks for Special Education Students
June 5, 2024
June 5, 2024
The members of Galicia Caravan No. 77 brought some immense joy and excitement recently to individuals with special needs at Lake Shore High School. This Metro Detroit area Caravan donated eight bicycles along with helmets and locks for use by the school's Special Education students. "These adaptive bikes not only provide a wonderful opportunity for physical exercise but also help our students develop essential motor skills, build confidence, and foster independence… Your donation has truly transformed our program, giving our students new ways to engage with their peers and participate in activities they might not have experienced otherwise" said Mrs. Cristen Belanger, Adapted Physical Education Teacher at the high school.
Keep up the good work Galicia!
Spring Dinner Dance for Special Olympians
Spring Dinner Dance for Special Olympians
May 1, 2024
May 1, 2024
Alhamar Caravan No. 4 hosted a dinner dance for Special Olympics bowlers and guests at the Sheehy-Farmer Center on the campus of King's College. Attendees were served a plated dinner with all the trimmings and dessert. Joe Hussey from Jester Entertainment provided some terrific dance music to get everyone on their feet. Donated raffle prizes were given out to each athlete.
About 80 people attended the event including "SHINING star volunteer" Ryan Pettipaw, a junior at King's College who has been a very reliable volunteer on Saturday mornings for Special Olympics bowling. Ryan even went so far as to recruit other King's College students who greeted and escorted guests to the 3rd floor ballroom. Hannah Hess, a junior at King's College majoring in Special Education PK-12 and a direct support professional at a local adult day program also gave of her time to help out. Hannah said, she was so HAPPY to see some of her clients at the event and you could tell the athletes were just as trilled to see her. It was a LOVELY affair. Huge smiles could be seen on our Special Friends.
Alhamar Caravan thanks their corporate sponsors: Bonner Chevrolet in Kingston, PA and Diamond Manufacturing in Wyoming, PA.
ALLEGANY MAGAZINE JULY 2023: Inside the Order of the Alhambra Wamba -- Where there’s more than ‘treats’ the eye
ALLEGANY MAGAZINE JULY 2023: Inside the Order of the Alhambra Wamba -- Where there’s more than ‘treats’ the eye
Celebrating Founder's Day
Celebrating Founder's Day
March 10, 2024
March 10, 2024
Carmona Caravan No. 75 celebrated the founding of the Order of Alhambra with a special mass and social at St. Andrew Abbey in Cleveland, OH. Father Spisak, a member of the Benedictine Order celebrated the Mass and blessed the amazing lunch which followed.
FLASH BACK NEWS - Catholic fraternity offers support to intellectually disabled
FLASH BACK NEWS - Catholic fraternity offers support to intellectually disabled
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