Marc Stirone was installed as the 16~ Grand Knight of Council 7677 in July of 1996. The central theme of his year was The Family and family programs. This was highlighted by the expansion of the Christmas caroling program to conclude a second assisted living home, Alterra. The Council and their families gathered at Alterra to carol and continued its Christmas celebration at the Children's Christmas Party. The council also opened the Knights of Columbus state convention weekend to any brother and their families. Vince Butera was honored with a Life Time Service Award for his many years of dedication to our council. However, one event that many people remember from this year may be the one and only time in the history of the council that Dues were increased, a total of $3.50 per year.