The Beacon

Remembering Our Veterans

The Wreaths Across America five year anniversary took place at the Veteran’s Memorial Wall at Laishley Park on Saturday December 13. Brother Paul Steele has led this event for all of these ceremonies since their inception with the assistance of our late Brother Knight Tim Tyler and his late wife Pat Tyler. The event honors the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, Space Force, Merchant Marine, and the POW / MIA.

Eight Fourth Degree Brother Knights presented wreaths to memorialize each of the aforementioned branches of service during the ceremony. The honor guard was also present from Punta Gorda American Legion Post 103 under the guidance of Brother Knight Tom Fascio and presented a 21-gun salute. After the ceremony, dozens of other wreaths were placed along the base of the wall.

Written by Brian Greathouse

The Month Ahead

EventDate
Pancake BreakfastSunday, January 18
7:00am – 1:00pm
Pork Chop DinnerSaturday, January 31
4:00 – 6:00pm
Raffle TicketsSaturday, February 7
After Mass
Raffle TicketsSunday, February 8
After Mass

2025 Pregnancy Solutions Life Award

The power of local partnership and dedication to life was on full display on Tuesday, November 18, 2025, as Pregnancy Solutions hosted its Annual Gala at the Charlotte Harbor Events Center in Punta Gorda. This cornerstone event brought together supporters, volunteers, and community leaders to celebrate the organization’s vital work providing compassionate care, education, and resources for women and families facing unplanned pregnancies.

The highlight of the evening was the presentation of Pregnancy Solutions’ 2025 Life Award to the Knights of Columbus, Ponce de Leon Council #8074. The award was accepted by Stephen Kowalski, Trustee and Life Director, and recognized the council’s long-standing support, including recurring Baby Bottle fundraising campaigns that helped fund four ultrasound machines over the past decade, along with continued contributions through the Aid and Support after Pregnancy program. Mr. Kowalski expressed gratitude for the honor and thanked Sacred Heart parishioners, the Supreme Council, and present and past Grand Knights whose leadership has made this work possible.

Written by Brian Greathouse & Daniel Constance