Bishop Brennan’s dinner to help scouting is ‘all about the kids’
Harry D’Onofrio, chairman, Catholic Committee on Scouting; Brian Long, diocesan scouting director; Miroslaw Brzezinski; James McHugh; Bishop Robert Brennan; William Bradley; Fr. Michael Lynch; Fr. Chris Heanue. Photos: Arthur DeGaeta/Brooklyn Eagle
By Wayne Daren Schneiderman
October 31, 2023
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The 2023 Bishop’s Dinner for Scouting, presented by the National Catholic Committee on Scouting, was held on Wednesday, October 25 at the El Caribe Country Club, paying special tribute to Bishop Robert Brennan, in addition to presenting a number of awards in front of more than 200 spectators.
The Bronze Pelican award, which is given at the Diocese level, to recognize scouters for the promotion of scout religious awards, and also promoting participation in scout religious activities, was awarded to James McHugh; Fr. Michael Lynch; William Bradley; and Miroslaw Brzezinski.
(From left) Scouts from St. Athanasius Parish: Lucas Senatore; Jake Harmon; and Leonardo Senatore.
The St. George Emblem, presented to those who have made a significant contribution to scouting in the field of Catholic relationships, and recognized outstanding contribution to the spiritual development of Catholic youth in the program of the Boy Scouts of America, was awarded to Fr. Chris Heanue; and Deacon Michael Fogarty.
In addition, the Bishop’s Good Scout Recipients (“for devotion to the children of our future”) included NYPD Assistant Chief Charles McEvoy; Bishop Kevin Sweeney; Fr. Patrick Keating, Esq.; and Antonio Biondi, former president, Cathedral Club of Brooklyn.
And the Ann Mannix Memorial Lifetime Achievement Award was given to Deacon James Noble.
Brian Long, Diocesan scouting director, told the Brooklyn Eagle he feels that scouting is still very relevant in this day and age. In fact, according to Long, it’s more relevant and necessary than it has been in quite some time.
(From left) Deacon Jim Noble; Assistant Chief Charles McEvoy; Bishop Robert Brennan; Antonio Biondi, former president, Cathedral Club of Brooklyn; Fr. Patrick Keating, Esq.; Bishop Kevin Sweeney; and Brian Long, diocesan scouting director.
“It’s more important than ever now to embrace these programs, because right now God and country are under attack,” Long said. “And this country was founded on religious principles.
“This is a program that is timeless, and it’s been going on for 110 years, so we must be doing something right. I really believe that parents and institutions look at this as being very important because of the values they teach: family, independence, and above all, common sense.”
(From left) Brian Long, Diocesan scouting director; and Jake Harmon, Eagle Scout.
Long pointed out that the goal is to foster religious, Catholic values – “to get the kids engaged, and make religion fun, furthering their faith,” he said.
But above all, it’s about the future – and the kids are our future, Long explained.
“It’s about the kids. The key is to teach them young and instill good values in them that will hopefully last a lifetime.”
SUNSET PARK — “As a resident of Marine Park, one of the great surprises I found biking around Industry City and visiting Japan Village was to discover Bush Terminal Park. I continue to be amazed at the serene hideaways that the city offers in some of the busiest places — and, still, with an iconic view.”
BROOKLYN HEIGHTS — ‘A miracle that no one was killed …’ That’s what neighbors are saying about the collapse of the Hotel St. George marquee. Shown in this photograph are workmen beginning the removal and repair of the historic, old neon sign at the corner, referencing a relic of Brooklyn Heights’ past: the St. George Hotel.
ATLANTIC AVENUE — Exhausted shopper with cluster of bags and goods from mall at Boerum Place stops to look at huge construction site across the street. “Is that REALLY going to be a jail??” Her male companion is reassuring, “Nothing like Rikers … this is 21st Century.”
BROOKLYN HEIGHTS — Overheard in line at one of most popular pastry outlets on Montague Street: “Hope I can get them into a camp …” A mother with two pre-schoolers in tow was showing a friend the Dodge Y flyer for Healthy Kids Day on Saturday, April 18.
