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Each year, the Knights of Columbus in Thompson Falls collect donations for their annual Tootsie Roll Drive. Members collected almost $2,000 last year to donate to local Special Olympics athletes. Ron Kazmierczak with the Knights of Columbus last week presented a $700 check to the Super Hawks and a $1,190 check to Little Bitterroot Special Services. Amanda Moseley with Little Bitterroot said they will use the donation a little differently this year. While some of the money will continue to support Little Bitterroot's Special Olympics athletes, some will also be used for other outdoor activities. Moseley said they have some clients who don't participate in Special Olympics, so the money will be used to take them outdoors for activities such as fishing.

Annie Wooden

GIVING BACK - Ron Kazmierczak with the Knights of Columbus presented checks to Little Bitterroot Special Services. The Knights of Columbus collect donations each fall as part of their Tootsie Roll Drive.

"We are very, very thankful for the donation and continued support by Knights of Columbus," Moseley said.

The Super Hawks will participate in the regional Special Olympics competition April 26 in Kalispell before moving on to state in Great Falls May 16-17.

Each fall, the Knights of Columbus gather donations from local businesses for the Tootsie Roll Drive. They also collect donations at Harvest Foods, handing out Tootsie Rolls to those who donate. Knights of Columbus is a fraternal organization of Catholic men that was founded in 1882. In 2017, the charitable organization donated $185.6 million and 75.6 million hours of service worldwide.