Once again the members of the Columbus Lodge #2143 will travel to the Uniondale studios of Telecare to take part in the annual Telecare Telethon. The telethon will broadcast live from 3-10 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 15 and from noon- 10 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 16 on Cable's channel 29. The telethon will also be broadcast, in part, on WLNY/Channel 55 on Saturday from 5-7 p.m. and Sunday from 3-5 p.m.

Telecare is the non-profit, state-of-the-art television and production facility of the Diocese of Rockville Centre. For more than 30 years, the station has been dedicated to answering the critical needs of millions of Long Island viewers. The station focuses on local and community-based news, as well as global events, while bringing a spiritual focus to everything they do. Telecare also serves the Island's 47 parochial schools with religious educational materials.

During the broadcast, Columbus Lodge members will answer telephone calls for pledges and will be interviewed by the host of the current hour. The members are scheduled to take pledges on Saturday, from 5:00-6:30PM. Among the members expected to participate are Ed Bochynski, Frank Beltrani, Dan Calontone, Ray Colucci, Frank Curran, Pete Gisonda, Joe Pomponio and Clem Sebastopoli. Telethon volunteers are needed throughout the weekend; for more information one may contact Telecare at 538-8700.

"During this time of faith, good will, and good works, I hope you will take advantage of the opportunity to make a donation to the telethon," said Monsignor Thomas Hartman. "Any donation would be helpful as we continue to bring the best religious programming available."

The Telecare Telethon, which will be seen by over four million viewers, generates much-needed funds that are used to provide quality; value-oriented programming that is dedicated to religious and nondenominational family-oriented programming. The God Squad program, hosted by Monsignor Thomas Hartman and Rabbi Marc Gellman, currently reaches over 12 million viewers daily in NY, NJ and CT. The God Squad will be co-hosting the telethon throughout the weekend.

In addition to the God Squad, Father Charles and Laurie Mangano, who have developed a music ministry and host their own show at Telecare, will be on hand during the live telethon broadcast. Father Charles and Laurie are a brother and sister ministry team who share their gifts of song and prayer. Over the years, their singing has touched thousands of hearts through their inspirational music.

The Columbus Lodge #2143, a not-for-profit fraternal organization, can trace the roots of their participation in the telethon to the very first event. Now completing its 40th year, Columbus Lodge offers its members various social and recreational activities, as well as community and charity involvement. For more information on becoming part this organization one may one may telephone Steve LaScala at 735-2535.