Dans Papers - June 1, 2007 - McKnights Benefit

On June 8th a bbq/dance will be held to benefit Phillip McKnight and family at Mitchell Field from 7-10 p.m. All proceeds will go to helping the McKnights pay medical bills. The jazzy/blues band The Lone Sharks have volunteered to perform. This talented foursome will be performing, getting the crowd moving and letting the McKnights know that there are people out there who care. A committee formed to help out the McKnights and as a result, everything and anything needed for this fundraiser has been taking care of in true, North Fork form. Don Fisher of Southold donated his sound system, the Greenport Fire Department is grilling hot dogs and hamburgers. In case of rain, the Burton Potter American Legion Post has even offered its hall (charging only for electricity if used). There will be a "pass the hat" at the dance in hopes of collecting enough to get the McKnights covered until Phillip is officially retired. Thus far $3,470,10 has been collected to defer some costs. Here's hoping that the hat is filled and the McKnights can have life be just a bit easier for them.

All of us at some time or another need to rely on friends for help. Phillip Mcknight is lucky to be surrounded by some of the best friends on Long Island. In April 2006, McKnight, the father of 5 beautiful children, was diagnosed with a Sarcoma Tumor and is currently undergoing treatment. Unfortunately, illness and keeping his job just didn't match and McKnight soon found himself too ill to work and without health benefits for many months. Although his health benefits have since been re-instated by Greenport Village, he is still responsible for a very large co-pay of $700 per month to maintain coverage until he can qualify for Medicare and retirement benefits. Unable to currently work, his family is truly struggling to stay afloat. Loretta McKnight is caring for her sick husband, maintaining consistency for the 5 caring children and working three days a week as a nurses aide. She is hoping to increase it to four to help with expenses and secure additional benefits. This struggling, caring family needs support. Phillip and Loretta are well respected and have done so much for the community, now the community wants to give back.

If you'd like to make a donation, please send checks to Checks should be sent to First Universalist Church, P.O. Box 221, Southold, N.Y. 11971. Please make checks payable to The Friends of Phillip McKnight fund, your donation is tax deductible. The McKnights have expressed their sincerest gratitude to the community for their help.