- Slovak Catholic Sokol

Transcription

For God and Nation
Za Boha a Národ
Slovensk¥ Katolícky Sokol
OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE SLOVAK CATHOLIC SOKOL – MEMBERSHIP 28,000 – HOME OFFICE: 205 MADISON STREET, PASSAIC, N.J. 07055 – www.slovakcatholicsokol.org
Periodical Postage Paid at original entry of Passaic, N.J., 07055 and additional mailing offices
VOLUME C
PASSAIC, N.J., FEBRUARY 23, 2011
NUMBER 4932
Affirming our commitment to the sacredness of life
An opportunity to honor one of our own
Sokol Members Journey to Our Nation’s Capital to
participate in 38th Annual March for Life
2011 Fraternalist of the Year program
salutes volunteerism and outreach
Supreme Chaplain, Rev. Andrew S. Hvozdovic, third from the left, is shown with some Sokol members in attendance including, l-r, Suzanne Horvath, Msgr. Peter A. Polando, Danielle Zablotney, Kelly
Palchanis, and Heather Horvath. The Group 7 Sokolky came on the bus from Wilkes-Barre, Pa.
Continuing a fraternal tradition of several decades, members
of our organization joined their
brother and sister Slovak Catholic fraternalists in participating in
the March for Life in Washington,
D.C. on Monday, January 24. The
march marked the January 22 anniversary of the U.S. Supreme
Court’s 1973 Roe v. Wade decision that legalized abortion nationwide. The date of this year’s
march was moved to the 24th, a
Monday, to allow more people to
visit with their representatives on
Capitol Hill.
Billed as “Slovak Catholic
Fraternals for Life,” the group
included members of the Slovak
Catholic Sokol, the First Catholic Slovak Ladies Association,
the Ladies Pennsylvania Slovak
Catholic Union as well as the First
Catholic Slovak Union. Heading
the delegation of Sokol members
from our organization was our
Supreme Chaplain, Rev. Andrew
S. Hvozdovic. Many Sokol members from Group 7 journeyed
with the bus from Wilkes-Barre,
Pa. and members from Group 9
in Johnstown, Pa. also joined the
contingent. Upon seeing our society banners, the new Bishop of
Scranton, the Most Rev. Joseph
C. Bambera stopped by and greeted the assembled Slovak Catholic
fraternalists.
Many of our members began
their participation in this year’s
pro-life events by attending the
opening Mass of the National
Prayer Vigil for Life at the Basilica of the National Shrine of
the Immaculate Conception on
Sunday evening, January 23. Cardinal Daniel DiNardo, the Archbishop of Galveston-Houston,
Texas was principal celebrant and
homilist. Cardinal DiNardo is the
Chairman of the United States
Conference of Catholic Bishops
Committee on Pro-Life Activities. A large number of bishops
and priests concelebrated the
liturgy. They also participated in
the Rosary for Life in the shrine’s
Crypt Church. The vast basilica
(Continued on page 11)
They are to be found in many communities across the United
States and Canada, in our Groups, our Assemblies and Wreaths.
They are sometimes behind the scenes individuals or they may
be in leadership roles. What they all have in
common is that they are individuals committed to getting the job done. We’re speaking of
Sokol members who, through example and
accomplishment, provide outstanding volunteer service to our organization and community over the years. They may be devoted to a
variety of outreach and service projects which
assist others in the best traditions of the fraternal benefit system.
Without such individuals, our organization would not have been so
successful these past nearly 106 years. They are what makes the
fraternal benefit system unique. Each year, we ask our membership
to nominate an individual who in their estimation reflects such volunteerism and should be considered as our Slovak Catholic Sokol
Fraternalist of the Year. Since 1985, we have annually honored an
individual who is a mentor and model for others, an individual who
we are all very proud of. There are a number of such individual
members out there who should be considered for this award.
The individual selected as our 2011 Fraternalist of the Year will
receive a plaque, along with a gift of $200 as a small token of our
gratitude for his/her fraternal efforts. The individual selected as our
organization’s candidate is then recommended to the American Fraternal Alliance(formerly known as the National Fraternal Congress
of America) for consideration as their 2011 Fraternalist of the Year.
The 2011 Fraternalist of the Year award will be presented to the
honoree at the 125th American Fraternal Alliance Annual Meeting
Past Slovak Catholic Sokol
Fraternalist of the Year Recipients
1985 - Anna E. Hletko*, Chicago, Ill.
1986 - Deacon John C. Matlon*, Minneapolis, Minn.
1988 - Irene Matuschak*, Uniontown, Pa.
1989 - Mary T. Sterbinsky*, Kingston, Pa.
1990 - Eleanor Macko*, Baden, Pa.
1991 - Amalia T. Burican*, Milwaukee, Wis.
1992 - Julia M. Misencik*, Bridgeport, Conn.
1993 - Stephen C. Burican*, Milwaukee, Wis.
1994 - Dr. Stephen J. Hletko*, Chicago, Ill.
1995 - Anne Z. Sarosy, Colorado Springs, Co.
1996 - John J. Pavlica*, Clifton, N.J.
1997 - Steve J. Hruska*, Youngstown, Oh.
1998 - Andrew G. Tomasko*, Pittsburgh, Pa.
1999 - Frank M. Manca*, El Cajon, Ca.
2000 - Rev. Jerome J. Pavlik, O.F.M.*, Pittsburgh, Pa.
2001 - Joseph A. Seliga, Chicago, Ill.
2002 - Margaret A. Seman, Canton, Oh.
2003 - Tibor T. Kovalovsky, Boardman, Oh.
2004 - Frank E. Macey, Shillington, Pa.
2005 - George W. Hizny, Pittston, Pa.
2006 - George J. Kostelnik, Bethlehem, Pa.
2007 - Joseph V. Gebura, Middleburg Heights, Oh.
2008 - Rev. Msgr. Francis J. Beeda, Wilkes-Barre, Pa.
2009 - Eileen Salamon Wilson, Stratford, Conn.
2010 - John E. Jasenec, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
* deceased
PAGE 2
SLOVAK CATHOLIC FALCON, FEBRUARY 23, 2011
Sokol
Calendar
SAT.FEB.26
Q Fraternal Insurance Seminar
hosted by Group 2 at Holy Name
of Jesus Parish Center, 1950 Barnum Ave., Stratford, Conn. beginning at 11 a.m.
SUN.FEB.27
Q Group 5 gymnastics classes in
preparation for the 45th Slet at the
Perfect Balance facility in Portage
Lakes, 30 Forest Mill Lane, Akron,
Oh. from 4-6 p.m., call Steve Underation (216)570-6172.
Q 14th annual Spaghetti Dinner
hosted by Group 1 at SS. Cyril
and Methodius Church Hall, 218
Ackerman Ave., Clifton, N.J. beginning at 4 p.m., adults $6.00,
seniors $5.00 and children $3.00,
call Peter Walentowicz (973)4328841.
SUN.FEB.27
Q Assembly 180 meeting at St.
Mary’s Social Hall, 1602 Market
St.,. S, Canton, Oh. beginning at
10:30 a.m.
THURS.MARCH 3
Q Wreath 39 meeting at the home
of Mary Ann Wells, 330 Harvest
Ridge Road, Stratford, Conn. beginning at 6:30 p.m.
SAT.MARCH 5
Q Annual Pre-Lenten celebration
Fasiangy at the Knights of Columbus Hall, 3200 South 103rd St.,
Greenfield, Wis. from 6 - 11 p.m.;
advance tickets $4.50, at the door
$5.00; call Betty Valent (414)4256137.
Q Rescheduled Group 12 annual
meeting at the Slovak Catholic
Sokol Club, 411 Crestmont St.,
Reading, Pa. beginning at 11
a.m. hosted by Assembly 261 and
Wreath 155. Date changed due to
remodeling at the Sokol Club.
Q Slovak Mardi Gras DinnerDance hosted by the Slovak
Heritage Association of the Laurel
Highlands at Christ the Saviour
Education Center, 307 Garfield
St., Johnstown, Pa. from 4:30 -
8:30 p.m., $25.00 adults, $15.00
children(ages 6-12); call (814)2555517.
SUN.MARCH 6
Q 59th annual Florida Slovak Day
observance at The Slovak Garden, 4755 Howell Branch Road,
Winter Park, Fla. beginning with a
Slovak Mass at 11 a.m. followed
by a traditional Slovak luncheon
and cultural program; $25.00 per
person, for reservations and additional information call The Slovak
Garden at (407)677-6894.
MON.MARCH 7
Q Annual meeting of The Slovak
Garden at its social hall, 3110
Howell Branch Road, Winter Park,
Fla. beginning at 10 a.m.
Q Wreath 22 meeting at the Slovak Catholic Sokol Club, 2912
East Carson St., South Side, Pittsburgh, Pa. beginning at 7 p.m.
Q Assembly 16 meeting at the
Slovak Catholic Sokol Club, 2912
East Carson St., South Side, Pittsburgh, Pa. beginning at 7:30 p.m.
TUES.MARCH 8
Q Wreath 1 annual meeting and
luncheon at Stella’s Restaurant,
Stratford, Conn. beginning at
12 noon, call Eileen S. Wilson
(203)378-8837.
WED.MARCH 9
Q Patronal feast day observance
of Wreath 1 beginning with 7:30
a.m. Mass at Holy Name of Jesus Church, 1950 Barnum Ave.,
Stratford, Conn.; breakfast and
gift-bearing visits to home-bound
members to follow.
SUN.MARCH 13
Q Assembly 78 meeting in the
social hall of Incarnation of Our
Lord Parish, 617 Pierce St., South
Side, Bethlehem, Pa. beginning at
1 p.m. to select delegates to the
31st national convention.
MON.MARCH 14
Q Wreath 93 meeting at the Mayfair North Tower meeting room in
Wauwatosa, Wis. from 6-8 p.m.
Q Assembly 9 annual meeting in
the meeting room of Holy Name
of Jesus School, 1950 Barnum
Ave., Stratford, Conn. beginning
at 7 p.m.
Q Wreath 111 meeting at the
The highest governing body
of our organization
The 31st Quadrennial Convention of
the Slovak Catholic Sokol
Dates: July 30 - August 3, 2011
Where: Radisson Hotel Pittsburgh Green Tree
101 Radisson Drive
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Mark your calendars and plan to participate. Plan to
become a delegate by regularly attending
your local Assembly or Wreath meetings.
American Slovak Club, 2540
Broadway, Lorain, Oh. beginning
at 6:30 p.m.
SAT.MARCH 19
Q 19th annual bowling tournament
hosted by Group 9 at the Lakeview Bowling Lanes, Ebensburg,
Pa. beginning at 10 a.m., dinner to
follow at the Slovak Catholic Sokol
Club, Railroad St., Lilly, Pa. beginning at 6 p.m.
SUN.MARCH 20
Q Assembly 182 St. Joseph patronal feast day observance beginning with Mass in Slovak at
11 a.m. at the Church of St. John
Nepomucene, 66th St. and First
Ave., New York City followed by
luncheon and fraternal program
in the parish social hall, 406 East
67th St.
Q Group 2 Centennial Duckpin
Bowling Tournament at Barnum Duckpin Lanes, Barnum
Ave.,Stratford, Conn. beginning
at 11 a.m., call Eileen S. Wilson
(203)378-8837.
MARCH 22-24
Q Annual audit of the Supreme
Auditors at the home office in Passaic, N.J.
WED.MARCH 23
Q Lenten Fish & Chips dinner
hosted by the Marian Rosary Society of SS. Cyril and Methodius
in the church hall, 218 Ackerman
Ave., Clifton, N.J. beginning at
5:30 p.m.; $15.00, takeout orders
available; call Dot (973)772-3448.
MARCH 25-26
Q Annual meeting of the Supreme
Board of Directors at the home office in Passaic, N.J.
SAT.MARCH 26
Q Eastern District Basketball &
Volleyball Tournament at Reading
High School, Reading, Pa. hosted
by Group 12.
SUN.MARCH 27
Q Group 1 Bowling Tournament
at Paul’s Bowling Academy, 377
Crooks Ave., Paterson, N.J. beginning at 12 noon. Call Eric Topczij (973)985-0134.
SUN.APRIL 3
Q Group 5 bowling tournament
at Yorktown Bowling Lanes,
Parma Heights, Oh. beginning at
12:30 p.m., call Marty Zemanek
(440)233-6021.
MON.APRIL 11
Q Wreath 93 meeting at the Mayfair North Tower meeting room in
Wauwatosa, Wis. from 6-8 p.m.
SUN.APRIL 17
Q Assembly 34, St. George patronal feast day observance beginning with Mass at 9 a.m. at the
A Sokol Annuity: Plan for Your Future
It is no surprise that selling life insurance has become difficult
during these tough economic times, especially to the bulk of our membership base which are ages 35-55. Even though it is a necessary asset
to possess, people find it difficult to put money into something that will
not take effect until, hopefully, many years from now. Does the Slovak
Catholic Sokol offer another option, perhaps a product that can save
your hard-earned money and secure your post-retirement benefits?
The answer is yes.
The Slovak Catholic Sokol offers two outstanding annuity options. The first is our Single Premium Deferred Annuity, in which there
is one deposit due on the issue date. The minimum deposit is $2,000
and the age of the annuitant can be between 16-80. The second is our
Flexible Annual Premium Deferred Annuity, in which the initial deposit is due on the issue date and any additional deposits can be made
anytime thereafter. The minimum deposit is $200.00 and the issue age
can be between 16-80. Both annuities are currently paying a very competitive 4% interest rate annually. These annuities can help you meet
some of your mid and long range goals, such as planning for your retirement or paying for a child’s college education.
What are some of the advantages of owning a Sokol Annuity?
Buying an annuity helps the investor enjoy a tax-free contract and the
flexibility of choosing the investment amount. The earnings that occur
during the term of the annuity are tax-deferred. This simply means you
are not taxed on them until they are paid out. Because of the tax deferral, your funds have the chance to grow more quickly than they would
in a taxable investment.
Another advantage of a Sokol Annuity is there are no sales charges
or annual fees incurred during the ownership period. Most of the other
post retirement programs charge various fees that seem to “just show
up”, such as a morality fee or a maintenance fee. The Slovak Catholic
Sokol incurs no such fees.
Lastly, and probably the most important advantage of purchasing
a Sokol Annuity, is the ability for those new to the Slovak Catholic
Sokol, to be “Sokol Members”. They will be able to enjoy the same
benefits that many of our members have enjoyed over the years, such
as our various sporting events.
Do not just work for your money; make your money work for
you!
Call the Home Office today at 1-800-886-7656 for more information and I will be glad to assist you. Thank you and Zdar Boh!
Scott T. Pogorelec
S.C.S. Underwriter
Church of SS. Cyril and Methodius, Second Street and 13th
Ave. N.E., Minneapolis, Minn., full
breakfast to follow in the Father
George Dargay Memorial Hall;
call James Genosky (763)7899196.
SAT.APRIL 30
Q Meeting of the Group 2 convention delegates at Holy Name of
Jesus School meeting room, 1950
Barnum Ave., Stratford, Conn. beginning at 9:30 p.m.
SUN.MAY 1
Q 5th annual Singles Bowling
Tournament hosted by Assembly
78 at the National Sokol Bowling
Lanes, 613 Hillside Ave., Bethlehem, Pa., showup time 12 noon,
competition begins at 1 p.m., call
Fran Blanar (610)866-8381.
OUR NEXT ISSUE
IS MARCH 9
In keeping with our biweekly publishing schedule,
the next issue of the Slovak
Catholic Falcon will be that
of Wednesday, March 9th.
Deadline for all photos and
information for this issue will
be Thursday, March 3rd.
View e-Falcon on our
website: www.slovakcatholicsokol.org.
Thank ing you for your
continued cooperation in this
matter, I remain
Zdar Boh!
Daniel F. Tanzone
Editor
EARN - 4.0%
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Int roducing ourne we st members
They’re all kissin cousins!
Juliana Marie Hoeck, born August 30, 2010, is the daughter of
Brad and Lisa Zeman Hoeck
of Pewaukee, Wis. She was enrolled as a member of Wreath
93 in Milwaukee, Wis.
Annalise Faith Romine, born
March 19, 2010, is the daughter
of Chris and Jennifer Zeman
Romine of Franklin, Wis. She
was enrolled as a member of
Wreath 93 in Milwaukee, Wis.
Riana Suzanne Hoeck, born December 24, 2008, is the daughter
of Brad and Lisa Zeman Hoeck
of Pewaukee, Wis. She was enrolled as a member of Wreath
93 in Milwaukee, Wis.
Amber Elizabeth Schmeling
Radtke, born August 29, 2007,
is the daughter of Michael and
Tricia Zeman Radtke of Grafton, Wis. She was enrolled as a
member of Wreath 93 in Milwaukee, Wis.
Evan Timothy Radtke, born
September 2009, is the son of
Michael and Tricia Radtke of
Grafton, Wis. He was enrolled
as a member of Wreath 93 in
Milwaukee, Wis.
Andrew Timothy Peterson,
born July 28, 2007, is the son
of Ryan and Kristy Zeman Peterson of Wildwood, Mo. He
ISSN: 0897-8107
Established April 15, 1911
Official Publication of the Slovak Catholic Sokol
Issued Bi-Weekly
Daniel F. Tanzone, Editor
Editorial office: (973) 777-4010
Annual Subscription Rates
United States $35.00 - All others countries $40.00
POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Slovak Catholic Falcon,
P.O. Box 899, 205 Madison Street,
Passaic, New Jersey 07055
Member of the Catholic Press
Association and the Slovak Newspapermen's
Association of America
Proprietor and Publisher
SLOVAK CATHOLIC SOKOL
P.O. Box 899
205 Madison Street, Passaic, N.J. 07055
Home Office: (973) 777-2605-06
WEB SITE –www.slovakcatholicsokol.org
Kyle Ray Peterson, born September 4, 2009, is the the son
of Ryan and Kristy Zeman Peterson of Wildwood, Mo. He
PAGE 3
From the Desk of the Supreme President
Thoughts on Fraternalism
by Larry M. Glugosh
There is a new national holiday in Canada called “Family
Day”. It will take place on the third weekend in February and is a
national event to honor and celebrate our families. The idea originated in 2009 and a bill was passed to create this national holiday. The February date was selected by the Canadian government
to align with Presidents’ Day in the United
States, since our countries are often linked
with national holidays.
The new holiday was created to give
thanks to our many blessings with our families. It is a wonderful opportunity to reflect
upon our cherished heritage and embrace
some quality time and experiences with our
family members. Many individuals will take
advantage of the holiday weekend to plan for
their future by investing in their children’s education fund or buying a 401K fund for their retirement. Hopefully
some of our members will think about adding more life insurance
to protect their family members in the future.
In addition to the above activities, many not for profit organizations will conduct specific programs in their community by visiting a senior citizens home, a veterans center or completing some
form of charitable work. After all these individuals are integral to
our family and have contributed to our community. As a fraternal
benefit society, it is our mission to support these types of activities
and a key purpose for our existence. I hope each member of our
society will take a few moments to give back to their community
by conducting a charitable act of kindness. It will enrich your own
family experience.
Along with our northern members, I sincerely hope our Slovak Catholic Sokol members south of the 49th parallel took the
time with their families to enjoy the Presidents’ Day long weekend.
It is important to always remember and honor our past, since it will
offer us guidance and direction for our future. Many great leaders
have left their legacy in our communities and hopefully we can
learn from their contributions to build our future.
Within our society, we also have an opportunity to help develop our future through our annual scholarship program. As a former
recipient, I know how the contribution from the Slovak Catholic
Sokol can help achieve your academic goals and objectives. The
financial assistance certainly helped my family and I hope our eligible members will take the time to complete an application before
the deadline next month. It is a very worthwhile program and important investment in our youth and our future.
On behalf of my entire 100% Slovak Catholic Sokol family, I
hope all of you experienced a wonderful, safe and enjoyable Presidents’ Day and Family Day long weekend.
May God Bless you all!
Group 2 to host Duckpin
tournament on March 20
Sokols and Sokolky of Group
2, join us as we roll in our centennial year by enjoying a day of
Duckpin Bowling at the Barnum
Duckpin Lanes, located on Barnum Avenue in Stratford, Conn.
on Sunday, March 20(the day after the feast day of our protector,
St. Joseph) from 11 a.m. to 1:30
p.m.
Pizza, beverages and a special dessert follows the bowling
at 1:30 p.m. COMPLIMENTS
of the Group. There is no charge
for Junior members, age 15 and
younger. Those 12 and younger
may bowl in socks. Junior members will be grouped according to
age: age 4-5-6, 7-8-9, 10-11-12,
and 13-14-15. Senior teams will
be chosen by draw. Cost for Senior members bowling and monetary prizes is $12.00 per person.
When making reservations
by the RSVP deadline of March
14th, include name, Wreath/Assembly number, and age of Junior members. Call any of the
following: Wreath 1, Eileen
Wilson (203)378-8837; Wreath
39, Larry Wells (203)375-2836;
Wreath 86/Assembly 23, Bonnie
Rossi (860)482-9062; Assembly 9, Judith Salamon (203)3333716; Assembly 33, Joseph Dulla
(203)734-5574; and Assembly
308, Paul Nemergut (203)7321136. Checks made payable to
SCS Group 2(non-refundable)
and mailed to John Sinanis,
Group 2 treasurer, 406 Erwin St.,
Trumbull, CT 06611. For nonmember Senior guests the cost is
$17.00 for non-member Juniors
the cost is $8.50. Call Eileen S.
Wilson (203)378-8837 for reservations.
Looking ahead, we ask our
members to mark their calendars
for our 100th anniversary celebration set for Sunday, November
13. Details to follow.
Zdar Boh!
Eileen S. Wilson
President
Larry Wells
Sports Director
PAGE 4
REFLECTOR ...
Jotings from Sokol
and Slovak life
Traditional Pre-Lenten Fasiangy
in Johnstown, Pa. on March 5
The Slovak Heritage Association of the Laurel
Highlands(SHALH) will host its annual Pre-Lenten celebration Fasiangovu zabavu on Saturday, March 5 from
4:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Christ the Saviour Education
Center located at 307 Garfield Street in Johnstown, Pa.
This Slovak Mardi Gras Dinner and Dance is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy some traditional merriment
before the beginning of the Lenten Season. The evening will include a delicious dinner featuring traditional
Slovak culinary favorites. Music for dancing and listening pleasure will be provided by Rosie & the Jammers
and a highlight of the evening will be a performance by
the popular Johnstown Folk Dancers. There will be two
costume contests: one for Best Mardi Gras Costume and
one for best Slovak Kroj (traditional Slovak dress).
Tickets for Fasiangy are $25.00 for adults, $24.00
for members of the Slovak Heritage Association, and
$15.00 for children ages 6 to 12. Make checks payable
to SHALH and mail to P.O.Box 203, Johnstown, PA
15907. For additional information on the celebration,
call tel. (814) 255-5517. Susan Kalcik, vice president of
SHALH is serving as chairperson of this year’s Mardi
Gras celebration. Group 9 Sokols and Sokolky are cordially invited to come out and celebrate Fasiangy in true
Slovak tradition. An enjoyable evening is assured. The
Slovak Heritage Association of the Laruel Highlands
promotes Slovak culture and heritage in the Johnstown,
Pa. area.
Matthew M. Blistan, Jr. to be
honored by Pittsburgh fraternals
The Fraternal Societies of Greater Pittsburgh
(FSGP) has named GBU Financial Life’s National Vice
President Matthew M. Blistan, Jr. as Fraternalist of the
Year for 2011. The FSGP is comprised of 22 fraternal
benefit societies, including the Slovak Catholic Sokol,
and nine business-associated groups representing over
one million members, and has been serving the Western
Pennsylvania area for more than 66 years.
Each year, the FSGP chooses a member who displays active participation in promoting the fraternal spirit
and who has made invaluable contributions to the fraternal
community. Matt, who is of Slovak ancestry and is active in
the Western Pennsylvania Slovak community will be honored by the FSGP at the annual Fraternalist of the Year banquet on Saturday, March 26, 2011 at the Sheraton - Station
Square Hotel on Pittsburgh’s historic South Side.
Matt has been a fraternalist from birth, as his family members were, and still are, very active in several
fraternal societies. Prior to coming to GBU in 2001,
Matt served as national president of the United Lutheran Society(which resulted from the merger of the
Slovak Evangelical Union and the Slovak Evangelical
Women’s Union). Matt has been an integral part of the
success of GBU, especially its fraternal programs.
In 2000, Matt led the FSGP as its president and has
served several terms as a member of the board of directors of the Pennsylvania Fraternal Congress.
Tickets for the Fraternalist of the Year banquet
are priced at $55 per person. For reservations contact
Karen A. Pintar at 1-800-843-7675. Our congratulations
and fraternal best wishes go out to Brother Blistan who
so beautifully mirrors our fraternal way of life and is a
credit to the American Slovak community.
59th Florida Slovak Day set
for March 6 in Winter Park, Fla.
The president of The Slovak Garden, Justine
Wesnak extends a cordial invitation to Snow birds from
both north and south of the Mason Dixon Line to come
and celebrate our Slovak heritage in the Sunshine State
at this year’s 59th Annual Florida Slovak Day scheduled
for Sunday, March 6. The annual event, hosted by The
Slovak Garden, billed as a Home for American Slovaks,
is held on its spacious grounds and social hall located at
3110 Howell Branch Road in Winter Park, located just
outside Orlando, Fla.
Doors open at 10 a.m. where guests may visit the
interesting and colorful collections located in the Slovak Museum located on the grounds. Festivities begin
with a Mass celebrated in Slovak with the Rev. Louis P.
Luljak, a retired priest of the Archdiocese of Milwaukee, as celebrant and homilist. Following the liturgy,
a delicious luncheon featuring a variety of homemade
Slovak culinary specialities will be served in the social
hall. A cultural program begins at 2:30 p.m. featuring
the artistry of the PAS Slovak Folk Ensemble from
Pittsburgh, Pa. PAS will provide a colorful display of
some of the rich Slovak music and dance traditions of
the various areas and regions of Slovakia. In addition,
there will be music for dancing and listening pleasure
provided throughout the day.
Tickets for the luncheon are just $25.00 per person. For reservations send check, made payable to The
Slovak Garden and send same to: The Slovak Garden,
3110 Howell Branch Road, Winter Park, FL 32792. For
additional information on this year’s Florida Slovak
Day, call (407)677-6894. We hope to see many Sokols
and Sokolky from all parts of the U.S. and Canada at
this year’s 59th annual Florida Slovak Day.
The Slovak Garden was established in 1950 by a
group of Slovak fraternalists to serve as a facility for
American Slovaks in their retirement years to enjoy the
sun and pleasant surroundings of the area. The facilities
includes one and two bedroom apartments available to
individuals age 55 and older. For information on these
apartments, call The Slovak Garden at the telephone
listed above or contact the President Justine Wesnak at
[email protected].
Youngstown Sister Cities
sets 2011 Slovakia Tour
The Youngstown Sister Cities’ 14th Heritage Tour
to Slovakia has been set for July 4-18, 2011. The tour
includes sites in Vienna, Austria; Bratislava, Trencin,
the High Tatra Mountains, Levoca, Kosice, and Spisska
Nova Ves in Slovakia.
Special features include Mass in the village of
Lendak where villagers still wear traditional Slovak
kroj(costumes) to Mass; a visit to the Kezmarok Street
Fair where local artisans sell their homemade items at
booths and where one can sit and enjoy Slovak folk
music and dancing which is performed all day on
stage(while you eat delicious Slovak food); the Piestany Spa; Slovak wood-carving of the complete scene
of Bethlehem; gondola lift ride up the side of on the
peaks of the Tatra mountains and dinner at a genuine
koliba(shepherd’s hut), a raft ride on the Dunajec River
which forms the natural boundary between Slovakia
and Poland; as well as visits to many churches, museums, and castles. A highlight special event of the tour
is a champagne breakfast at the Town Hall hosted by
the Mayor of Youngstown’s Sister City of Spisska Nova
Ves. One day in Levoca is reserved to visit friends and
relatives - English speaking guides(chauffeurs) will be
available for personal visits for an added fee.
Well-known Slovak American activists, Jim and
Kay Bench, who have been guides on many previous
Youngstown Sister City tours, will lead the group. They
are knowledgeable about tours and sites to be seen during the 13-day stay.
Total cost per person(airfare from PittsturghWashington, D.C.-Vienna is approximately $3,500 per
person based on double occupancy and includes airfare,
thirteen nights in first class hotel, two meals per day,
and an air-conditioned bus with an English speaking
guide for the entire tour. For information on the tour
contact Jim/Kay Bench at (cell)(724)858-5843 or [email protected] or Adventure International Travel
Service (800) 542-2487 or [email protected] or
contact Bernie Demechko, secretary of the Youngstown
Sister Cities at bdemechko@aol. com. Come join us for
an unforgettable visit to the land of our ancestors!
The Word
of God ...
Gospel for the Eighth Sunday
of the Year - February 27th
Matthew 6:24-34
A reading from the holy Gospel
according to Matthew
Jesus said to his disciples:
“No one can serve two masters.
He will either hate one
and love the other,
or be devoted to one
and despise the other.
You cannot serve God and mammon.
“Therefore I tell you,
do not worry about your life,
what you will eat or drink,
or about your body,
what you will wear.
Is not life more than food
and the body more than clothing?
Look at the birds in the sky;
they do not sow or reap,
they gather nothing into barns,
yet your heavenly Father feeds them.
Are not you more important than they?
Can any of you by worrying
add a single moment to your life-span?
Why are you anxious about clothes?
Learn from the way the wildflowers grow.
They do not work or spin.
But I tell you that
not even Solomon in all his splendor
was clothed like one of them.
If God so clothes the grass of the field
which grows today
and is thrown into the oven tomorrow,
will he not much more provide for you,
O you of little faith?
So do not worry and say,
‘What are we to eat?’ or
‘What are we to drink?’ or
‘What are we to wear?’
All these things the pagans seek.
Your heavenly Father knows
that you need them all.
But seek first the kingdom of God
and his righteousness, and
all these things will be given you besides
Do not worry about tomorrow;
tomorrow will take care of itself
Sufficient for a day is its own evil.
The Gospel of the Lord.
Gospel for the Ninth Sunday
of the Year - March 6th
Matthew 7:2 1 -27
A reading from the holy Gospel
according to Matthew
Jesus said to his disciples:
“Not everyone who says to me,
‘Lord, Lord,’
will enter the kingdom of heaven,
but only the one
who does the will of my Father in heaven.
Many will say to me on that day,
‘Lord, Lord,
did we not prophesy in your name?
Did we not drive out demons in your name?
Did we not do mighty deeds in your name?’
Then I will declare to them solemnly,
‘I never knew you.
Depart from me, you evildoers.
Everyone who listens
to these words of mine
and acts on them
will be like a wise man
Lodge Jottings
BETHLEHEM, PA
Assembly 78
Our lodge, under the patronage
of St. Anthony of Padua, will host a
special meeting on Sunday, March
13 in the social hall of Incarnation
of Our Lord Parish(formerly SS.
Cyril and Methodius) located at 617
Pierce Street, South Side. Our meeting will begin promptly at 1 p.m. All
members are invited to attend.
At this meeting, we will select
the delegates who will represent
our Assembly at the upcoming 31st
Quadrennial National Convention
of our organization scheduled for
Pittsburgh, Pa., July 30 to August
3. The national convention is the
highest governing body in the life
of a fraternal like our own and will
guide our organization in the years
ahead. Those interested in serving
as a delegate are urged to attend the
meeting.
Looking forward to seeing a
good turnout of members at our
next meeting and with fraternal best
wishes, may I remain
Zdar Boh
Susan Knoblauh
Recording Secretary
Attention Group 15 members
A Busy Sokol Sporting Season Ahead
My name is C.J. Fogle and I was named the acting Sports Director
of Group 15 “General Milan S. Stefanik” in 2010. Group 15 covers a
wide geographic area including Erie, Pennsylvania and Niagara Falls, New York as well as all of
western New York state.
My own earliest recollections of Sokol activity included my participation at the International Slets in 2007 and in 2009, when I helped
Group 14 take home the Championship Flag.
The gymnastics training given to me in Pittsburgh helped me stay in shape during my successful high school wrestling career and gave me
a sense of belonging, especially when my family
moved to Western New York.
More recently, I was given the opportunity to compete at the 64th
International Bowling Tournament which was held at the Noble Manor
Lanes in Pittsburgh, Pa. in May 2010 with my dad. The bowling banquet held at the Slovak Catholic Sokol Club was a wonderful opportunity to return to my Sokol roots. It was a wonderful experience.
In addition, I also enjoyed participating in the 55th International
Golf Tournament held at Treasure Lake Resort in DuBois, Pa. in August 2010. This tournament was especially enjoyable in that I was able
to participate with my uncles, William Fogle and Dr. William Kitsko as
well as my dad and our good friend, Tom Molitor, who happened to be
the B Flight Champion. Participating in various Sokol sporting events
are always enjoyable, filled with good sportsmanship and fellowship.
I would like to take this opportunity to extend an invitation to
any members of Group 15 who would like to participate in some of
this summer’s Sokol events. Give me a call at tel. (585)698-3441. The
2011 golf tournament is scheduled for August 19-21 at Peek N’Peak in
Clymer, N.Y. which is located in the heart of Group 15 territory. Those
interested in participating should give me a call and we will discuss the
many benefits of participating in Sokol events.
Zdar Boh!
C.J.Fogle, Group 15 Sports Director
Group 2 convention delegates
set to meet in Stratford, Conn.
Delegates elected to represent Assemblies and Wreaths in Group
2 at the upcoming 31st quadrennial convention in Pittsburgh will meet
on Saturday, April 30 in the meeting room of Holy Name of Jesus
School located at 1950 Barnum Avenue in Stratford, Conn. The meeting will begin promptly at 9:30 a.m. and will conclude when all business has been addressed.
The meeting agenda will include, but not be limited to - a review
of our organization’s Constitution and Bylaws for purposes of input/
questions to the pre-convention committees of Constitution/Bylaws
and New Motions. Transportation to the convention - as has been the
practice of our Group, we will travel to the convention as a group with
details on same to be presented at the meeting.
In as much as we have the responsibility of representing our
membership, any member of Group 2 who wishes us to present input
to the pre-convention committees, please send same to the attention
of Group 2 President Eileen S. Wilson, 395 Pilgrim Lane, Stratford,
CT 06614 in writing and signed. RSVP deadline for all of the above is
Monday, April 25. Coffee And will be available throughout the meeting. We hope to see all Group 2 convention delegates present at this
important meeting. Zdar Boh!
Fraternally,
Eileen S. Wilson
Group 2 President
BRIDGEPORT, CONN.
Wreath 1
On Tuesday, March 8, we will
host the annual meeting of our
Wreath following our traditional
luncheon to be held at Stella’s Restaurant in Stratford beginning at 12
noon. All members are invited to attend. Reports of the officers will be
presented and plans for a busy 2011
fraternal year will be finalized. Election of officers will take place. In
addition, we will elect our delegates
who will represent our Wreath at
the upcoming 31st quadrennial convention set for July 30-August 3 in
Pittsburgh, Pa. In addition, any other
business for the good and better of
the order will be on the meeting
agenda.
Those planning to attend are
asked to RSVP to Eileen S. Wilson
at (203)378-8837 by March 4th.
On Wednesday, March 9 will
commemorate and celebrate the
feast of our Wreath patroness, St.
Frances of Rome(the actual feast
day). We will attend the 7:30 a.m.
Mass at Holy Name of Jesus Church
in Stratford which will be celebrated
for the living and deceased members of our Wreath. Following the
liturgy, we will enjoy breakfast followed by our traditional gift-bearing
visits to our Sister Sokolky who are
long-term, health care center and
home bound.
Families are asked to advise if
there is anyone who would enjoy
our patronal feast day visit by calling Eileen S. Wilson at the number
listed above. The RSVP deadline is
March 4. This is a wonderful fraternal outreach program that our
Wreath has practiced for many,
many years now. Join us Sister Sokolky of Wreath 1.
Zdar Boh!
Eileen S. Wilson
President
CANTON, OH.
Assembly 180
Our next regular Assembly meeting is scheduled for Sunday, February 27 at St. Mary’s Parish Hall located at 1602 Market Avenue South
beginning at 10:30 a.m. All members are invited to attend.
As part of our care and share
fraternal outreach project, we will
be collecting donations for the local Hammer and nails organization.
Members can go to hammerandnails.org for a list of items that can
be donated. Any questions, feel free
to call Rose Croy at (330)495-4436
or Jim Knis (330) 494-9524.
This year, our Assembly celebrates its 89th anniversary. It was
in the spring of 1922 that group of
young Slovaks met at the former Sacred Heart of Jesus Slovak Church to
organize a new lodge of the Slovak
Catholic Sokol. Our founders chose
St. Benedict as the lodge’s patron. We
have enjoyed a proud and active past
and we look forward to continued fraternal activity in the future.
Zdar Boh!
Rose Croy
Recording Secretary
MINNEAPOLIS, MINN.
Assembly 34
The annual patronal feast day of
our lodge honoring St. George will
PAGE 5
From the Supreme Physical Fitness Board
Don’t Forget to Stretch
by Frank P. Laury, III
The winter season is a good time to began our physical preparation for the coming spring and summer sporting and athletic programs. Stretching is crucial at all ages. It is so beneficial to make
stretching a part of your every day agenda. So
many times, we see athletes at all levels pull
muscles or become injured due to lack of flexibility from not properly stretching. How many
times you have seen competitors in Sokol sporting events pull muscles, including myself. Most
of the time this occurs from jumping in an event
or game without properly stretching. The most
important thing I can stress is that you need to
start working on flexibility now.
Stretching just the day of the event is setting yourself up for an injury or lots of soreness
the next few days. This occurs because the muscle becomes shocked
from the sudden over stretching. If you can start being more conscience to stretch at least three times a week, it will improve the quality of your life. The best thing is you can stretch just about anywhere.
Even at your desk!
The benefits from stretching include, prevention of injury, improves range of motion in joints, improved circulation, helps posture
and balance, supplies nutrients to the muscles, and it has been recently been found that stretching reduces stress.
When you first start off, stretch slow and evenly. Do not bounce
or go to the point of pain. Make sure to stretch upper and lower body.
Try to hold each move for at least 10-15 seconds and eventualy down
the road try to make 30 second hold times. Breathe very relaxed while
stretching. It is also a very good idea to warm the muscle up first
before you stretch. If you can start off with five minutes of aerobic
exercise such as jogging or walking fast, this will help the muscles
to warm and loosen up, and prepares yourself for better results. If
you want to get more serious about your flexibility, add in a resistant
band, which is like a giant rubber band or a stability ball. You might
want to check into joining Pilates, Tai Chi or a Yoga class. There are
so many ways to stretch, and lots of good information on the Internet with demonstrations of proper techniques. There are also many
good books available on proper stretching techniques, and you might
want to talk to someone at your local YMCA if you need advice. If
you’re going to compete at the upcoming 45th International Slet this
summer, start a stretching program now and save yourself a possible injury. Group Physical Directors and Directresses should add
in a proper warm up routine, including stretching. It’s like any other
exercise, start slow, make it a habit every day and the benefits will be
life long. Good luck and Zdar Boh!
be observed on Sunday, April 17.
Mass will be celebrated for the living and deceased members of Assembly 34 at 9 a.m. at the Church of
SS. Cyril and Methodius where our
lodge has been active for more than
a century.
Following the liturgy, we will assemble in the Father George Dargay
Memorial Hall of the parish where
we will enjoy a full breakfast served
by the members of the St. Cyril Slovak Men’s Club. The breakfast is
free of charge for all members of
Assembly 34 and Wreath 47. Come
join us for an enjoyable celebration
of Sokol fellowship and fraternalism. However, we remind our members that there is no parking in the
school lot.
This year’s observance marks the
102nd anniversary of the founding
of Assembly 34. It was on April 4,
1909 that a group of young Slovak
immigrant men met at SS. Cyril and
Methodius Church Hall with the intention of establishing a local lodge
of the recently established Slovak
Catholic Sokol organization. Our
founders choose St. George, who
was a popular saint among gymnastic and youth groups in their native
homeland, as patron of the new Assembly. And the rest is history. For
all these years, our Assembly has
remained faithful to the high ideals
of the fraternal benefit system and
has participated in many sporting
and fraternal activities, on the local, Group and national levels. Over
these many years, we have always
promoted our faith and heritage
traditions and have faithfully supported SS. Cyril and Methodius
Parish. This year, our lodge will be
represented at the upcoming 31st
quadrennial national convention in
Pittsburgh and our youth will compete at this summer’s 45th International Slet at Kutztown University
in Kutztown, Pa.
Looking forward to seeing a good
turnout of our members at this year’s
patronal feast day observance, may I
remain
Zdar Boh!
James T. Genosky
Financial Secretary
NEW YORK, NY
Assembly 182
Our Assembly will host its traditional St. Joseph’s Day celebration
in honor of our patron on Sunday,
March 20. We will attend the 11 a.m.
Slovak Mass in a body at St. John
Nepomucene Church which will
be celebrated for the living and deceased members of Assembly 182.
Following the liturgy, we will enjoy
PAGE 6
WPSCA to host interesting
Spring cultural projects
Continuing in its cultural
and social program, the Western Pennsylvania Slovak Cultural
Association(WPSCA) will host
unique activities open to the general public in the Pittsburgh area.
On Saturday, April 16 a special Slovak cooking class will be held at St.
Gregory Byzantine Catholic Church
hall located at 2005 Mohawk Drive
in Upper St. Clair beginning at 1 p.m.
Magda Lukac, a popular cook from
Slovakia, will present a demonstration
of various pre-Easter Slovak culinary
favorites.
On Sunday, May 1, the WPSCA
will host it Spring Meeting at the
Czechoslovak Nationality Room in
the University of Pittsburgh Cathedral
of Learning beginning at 2 p.m. A special highlight of this meeting will be a
lecture by Richard Kocur titled “The
History of Slovak Hockey.” This is a
timely topic since the NHL playoffs
will be taking place at this time and
Pittsburgh anticipates its Penguins will
A fraternal benefit in support of higher education
be participating. Also, the World Cup
will be beginning in Kosice, Slovakia.
The Slovak Heritage Conversation Group meets at the Mt. Lebanon
Library on the first Monday of each
month beginning at 7 p.m. Interesting topics will include a film on the
Czechoslovak Legionnaires who
fought on the Allied side in World War
I at the March 7th session and a ShowN-Tell featuring members collection
of Slovak memorabilia at its April 4th
session.
Slovak language classes meet every Tuesday, March 1 to April 26 from
7 - 8:45 p.m. also at the Mt. Lebanon
Public Library which is located at 16
Castle Shannon Boulevard. Bozena
Hilko is the instructor.
Looking ahead, the WPSCA will
host a Central European Beer Tasking
event on Saturday, June 25 beginning
at 1 p.m at the Gypsy Cafe located on
Pittsburgh’s South Side. For information on any of these activities, call Pam
at (412)531-2990 during office hours.
Gospel for the Ninth Sunday of the Year
(Continued from page 4)
who built his house on rock.
The rain fell, the floods came,
and the winds blew
and buffeted the house.
But it did not collapse;
it had been set solidly on rock.
And everyone who listens
to these words of mine
but does not act them
will be like a fool
who built his house on sand.
The rains fell, the floods came,
and the winds blew
and buffeted the house.
And it collapsed
and was completely ruined.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
In our 106th year of fraternal service
Annual Meeting of the Board of Directors
set for March 25-26 in Passaic, N.J.
In compliance with section 3.2(f) of the Constitution and
Bylaws of the Slovak Catholic Sokol, we hereby officially announce the Annual Meeting of the Board of Directors, scheduled for March 25-26, 2011 at the Home Office in Passaic, N.J.
The Annual Meeting will officially open with a Mass celebrated by our Supreme Chaplain, Rev. Andrew S. Hvozdovic
at 8:30 a.m. in the Home Office Board Room. This liturgy will
be celebrated for the living and deceased members of our organization.
Following the liturgy, the Annual Meeting of the Slovak
Catholic Sokol Museum will be called to order. At the conclusion of this meeting, the Annual Meeting of the Board of Directors will convene.
Members wishing to submit business for the Board of Directors to consider at this meeting are directed to send same
to the attention of: Supreme Secretary Steven M. Pogorelec,
F.I.C., Slovak Catholic Sokol, P.O. Box 899, 205 Madison St.,
Passaic, NJ 07055. All correspondence relative to the Annual
Meeting must be received no later then March 4, 2011.
From March 22-24, the Supreme Board of Auditors will
meet at the Home Office for the annual audit.
As we embark on the 106th anniversary of our beloved
organization, may we once again pledge ourselves to the upholding of the high ideals of fraternalism which inspired our
founders to establish what we today know as “America’s Greatest Slovak Gymnastic and Athletic Organization.”
Zdar Boh!
Larry M. Glugosh
Supreme President
Steven M. Pogorelec, F.I.C.
Supreme Secretary
Our Organization will offer $60,500 in Scholarship Grants
by Julie Ann Dobbs
Supreme Vice President
We are pleased to announce that the Slovak Catholic Sokol will make available a total of
$60,500 in scholarship grants to eligible members
in 2011. Previous recipients of Slovak Catholic
Sokol scholarship grants may reapply for a 2011
grant; however, per
Convention mandate a student may receive
a maximum of two (2)
Slovak Catholic Sokol scholarship grant
awards in each category.
A total of 30 Slovak Catholic Sokol
college grants of $1,000 each, two Theodore and
Mary Jane Rich Memorial Scholarships one for a
male and female in the amount of $2,500 each, two
Emil Slavik Memorial Scholarships one for a male
and female in the amount of $2,500 each, one The
Doctors’ Lesko Medical Memorial Scholarship in
the amount of $1,000, one Joseph and Mary Spernoga Memorial Scholarship in the amount of $500
and two Slovak Catholic Sokol (SCS) Memorial
Scholarship in the amount of $500.
With one application you may apply for all
college scholarship grants for which you are eligible. Note that only one grant per applicant will
be awarded.
College Scholarship eligibility requirements:
Slovak Catholic Sokol (a total of 30, $1000
grants will be awarded)
• Must have a minimum of $3,000 permanent
Life Insurance Coverage
• Must be a member of the Slovak Catholic
Sokol for at least five years.
• Must have completed one semester of undergraduate studies as a FULL TIME student at an accredited college, university or
professional school, or be enrolled in a
graduate or professional degree program.
• Must have an accumulated grade point
average of at least 2.5 or better
• One parent must be a Slovak Catholic
Sokol member
• Essay- “How has being a member of the
Slovak Catholic Sokol influenced my life?”
Joseph and Mary Spernoga (1 grant in the
amount of $500 will be awarded)
•
Same requirements as for SCS scholarship
Theodore and Mary Jane Rich (one male and
Lenten Fish’n Chips
dinner in Clifton, N.J.
The Marian Rosary Society of
SS. Cyril and Methodius Parish in
Clifton, N.J.
will host their
traditional
Lenten Fish’n
Chips dinner
with all the
trimmings
on Wednesday, March 23 in the church hall
located at 218 Ackerman Avenue
beginning at 5:30 p.m.
Tickets are $15.00 per person
and takeout orders are available. For reservations call Dot at
(973)772-3448 or Val at (973)728806. Tickets are also available
following the weekend liturgies
in the church vestibule.
one female grant in the amount of $2500 will
be awarded)
• Same requirements as for SCS scholarship
AND
• One parent must be of Slovak Ancestry
• Must be majoring in medical curriculum
Emil Slavik (2 grants in the amount of $2500
will be awarded)
AND
• Both parents must be members of the
Slovak Catholic Sokol
• Must be majoring in liberal arts, the
sciences, pre-law, pre-medical or business
curriculum.
The Doctors’ Lesko Medical Memorial Scholarship (1 grant in the amount of $1000 will be
awarded)
AND
• Majoring in Nursing or Medical curriculum
• One parent must be of Slovak Ancestry
Slovak Catholic Sokol Memorial Scholarship
(2 grants in the amount of $500 will be awarded to the applicant that best exemplifies the
spirit of volunteerism)
• Essay- “Describe the one volunteer experience that made the biggest personal impact
on you- how/why”.
Applications are ONLY available for download
on our website @
www.slovakcatholicsokol.org
Completed applications for college scholarships should be sent to:
Julie Dobbs
Supreme Vice-President
Chairperson of the Scholarship Committee
5314 Agatha Turn
Racine, WI 53402
(262)681-1720
Deadline for return of all scholarship applications is March 31, 2011
In addition to our college grant program, we
make available 19 Catholic High School Grants
in the amount of $500 each as well as 38 Catholic
Grade School Grants in the amount of $250 each.
Please find these scholarship applications and directives in each of the next issues of the Falcon.
2011 Fraternalist of the Year program
salutes volunteerism and outreach
to be held in Denver, Colorado,
September 29-October 1, 2011.
The honoree will be invited to attend the Fraternal Alliance’s Annual Meeting with travel, lodging
and meal expenses for the honoree and one guest paid for by the
Fraternal Alliance. The American
Fraternal Alliance will present a
check for $1,000 in the name of
the Fraternalist of the Year to the
charitable/nonprofit organization
of the honoree’s choice. One winner and two runners-up will be selected. There will be no ties.
So now is the time to think
about who among your local
lodge or Group is deserving of
recognition. We invite our members to submit the name of an individual who in their eyes should
be considered as our Fraternalist
of the Year. An individual member, an Assembly, Wreath or
Group can nominate an individual for consideration as our 2011
Fraternalist of the Year. We have
a nomination form available to
those who would like to nominate
an individual. A nomination form
is available by contacting Editor
Daniel F. Tanzone, who coordinates the program. Call him at
the home office at 800-886-7656.
Deadline for receipt of the completed nomination form is Friday,
June 24, 2011.
What's making headlines in our ancestral homeland
News and Views from Slovakia...
Banking sector profits doubled,
year-on-year, in 2010
Slovakia’s banking sector posted profits totalling
$710 million in 2010, which represents more than double
the figure recorded the year before, the country’s central
bank (NBS) announced on January 31.
Net revenues from interest went up by $145 million
for the year to reach $1.9 billion in 2010. Non-interest
net revenues, for their part, rose by 16 percent to stand
at $700 million.
Net operating losses reached $162 million, a rise of
$40 million compared to 2009.
The NBS data also revealed that banks slashed their
operating costs by $15.23 million, year-to -year, with the
figure standing at $1.4 billion in 2010.
Gasparovic: Slovak-Hungarian problems
should be resolved by experts
Slovak President Ivan Gasparovic suggested to
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban during the latter’s official visit to Bratislava on January 28 to resolve
problematic issues such as Hungary’s law on dual-citizenship and Slovakia’s Language Act at an expert level
within bilateral working groups.
According to Gasparovic’s spokesman Marek Trubac, Orban accepted the tone with which Gasparovic
began the discussion on this issue. “There are problems
that we would resolve in different ways, but I agree that
joint inter-governmental expert groups should deal with
them,” said Orban, adding that he would be happy if
Slovak-Hungarian relations were based on joint success.
“We need more economic successes, improvements
in highway connections, cross-border cooperation and
the creation of more jobs,” Trubac quoted Orban as saying, adding that he “hopes for a successful Slovakia as a
good neighbor that Hungary wants to help.”
Gasparovic repeated Slovakia’s words of support
for Hungary’s EU presidency, and again expressed pleasure at the agreement on a north-south gas pipeline that
is due to be signed on the same day. According to him,
there’s also a need to complete the road link between
Kosice and Miskolc(Hungary) and the long-promised
bridges over the River Ipel.
President Gasparovic also assured his quest that
Slovakia has a positive attitude towards all representatives of minorities living on its territory. “Minorities
with their culture and language enrich our society. We
shouldn’t resolve our relations only from the point of
view of claims that the ethnic Hungarian minority in
Slovakia is a bad position, “ he added.
The Slovak head of state also told Orban that Slovakia’s State language Act doesn’t threaten Hungarian-language speakers in Slovakia. Orban added that Hungary
views its Slovak minority as an equal part of society with
all due rights.
Orban: individual EU states should
retain power to resolve Roma issues
Powers linked to resolving Roma(gypsy) issues
shouldn’t be transferred from individual countries to the
joint European level, and individual EU-member states
should still have primary responsibility, said Hungarian
Prime Minister Viktor Orban during his official visit to
Slovakia on January 28.
These are the conclusions of a European-wide strategy for the Roma that is being prepared by Hungary. The
document should be ready by April so that representatives
of individual member states can discuss it. Hungary’s EU
presidency has scheduled its adoption for the EU summit
in June.
According to Orban, Europe needs the strategy because it is aimed at persuading its western members that
this is a serious and difficult issue regarding the way of life
of the Roma communities. He claimed that if settled Roma
communities aren’t given assistance in terms of integrating
into society, they will return to a nomadic way of life and
will move freely around the EU. “Every EU-member state
should have an eminent interest in integrating settled Roma
into society,” he said.
Orban added that the Hungarian government has invested a great deal of financial means into Roma issues, but
without enough positive effect. There is a need to change
existing practices, therefore, he said.
PAGE 7
courage and bravery, must not be forgotten,” said Radicova. “Righteous Among the Nations were individuals
who saved for us fundamental human values, our civilization and our world.”
The title ‘Righteous Among the Nations’ was
awarded to the following: Anna Knezova-Schonbrunova, Helena Cunderlikova-Kapustova, in memoriam
to Anna Cunderlikova and Frantisek Cunderlik, Karol
Halasz, Zuzana Hubinova, Stefan Hubinec, Anna Krchnava-Huginova, Eva Kochlanova and Ondrej Kochlan,
Maria Medvecka, Julius Medvecky, Michal Razus, Zofia
Rocekova, Anton Rocek, Maria Slobodnikova, Jan Slobodnik, Maria Kurovcova and Alexander Kurovec.
The Slovaks who were honored will have their
names inscribed on the Wall of Honor in the Garden of
the Righteous at Vad Vashem. To date, more than 500
Slovak citizens have been honored with the Righteous
Among the Nations honor.
SNS preparing Charter of
Rights of the Slovak Nation
The opposition Slovak National Party(SNS) is preparing a Charter of the Rights of the Slovak Nation, a
document that the party expects to be signed by various
Slovak personalities, SNS vice-chair Rafael Rafaj announced on February 8.
“It’s only being arranged according to a scheme for
now,” said Rafaj, adding that the modern age calls for
such a document, as “Slovaks seem to have vanished
from this republic.”
“Nobody speaks about them(Slovaks), there’s nowhere you can find their rights defined; not even in the
Slovak Constitution, in which, however, and quite paradoxically, the rights of minorities are mentioned. I’m
New camera system warns drivers
of traffic jams via SMS
The new one-of-a-kind camera system designed to
monitor traffic in a Bratislava bypass help drivers navigate
the busy roads connected to the section spanning from the
city’s west access road leading to Brno and the highway
leading to Trnava.
“We have 11 cameras installed close to the intersections in both directions to monitor traffic. Some cameras
are located 35 metres above ground and heated, so that no
ice will form on them,” mastermind of the TRAFFIC-BA
project Eduard Radimak told TASR on January 31.
According to him, the system is original and unique
in Europe. The cameras are interconnected on-line, and by
sending a text message from a mobile phone, a driver can
find out within just seconds whether or not their planned
route is currently without undue delays.
“If you go to work in the morning, you just send a text
message in the appropriate form to the number 7776 while
riding down the elevator from your apartment. Almost immediately, you get to know which route to take. This information costs you 20 cents,” said Radimak.
Israel honors 19 Slovaks with
title of ‘Righteous Among the Nations’
Another 19 Slovaks have been recognized with the
title ‘Righteous Among the Nations’ by the State of Israel
and the Jerusalem-based memorial to the Jewish victims of
the Holocaust Yad Vashem. The award is given to individual non-Jews who helped save the lives of Jewish people
during World War II. The ceremony was held in the old parliament building in Bratislava on February 2. In attendance
at the ceremony were Slovak President Ivan Gasparovic
and Prime Minister Iveta Radicova.
The honorees and their relatives received the medals
from Israel’s Ambassador to Slovakia Alexander Ben-Zvi
and Israeli general and Minister without Portfolio Yossi
Peled, who survived the Holocaust as a child thanks to a
non-Jewish family that provided him with shelter.
“The programmed hatred aimed against ethnicity, religion or color is the most terrible one, and we need to deal
with this,” said President Gasparovic in his address at the
gathering. “Let’s be brave. We don’t need petty squabbles,
we need peace and freedom”
The concept of freedom and democracy was highlighted also by Prime Minister Radicova. “This ceremony
confirms that historical memory goes hand-in-hand with
freedom and democracy. It confirms that victims, but also
their heroes, who risked their lives in the name of humanity,
Many historic castles dot the landscape in Slovakia.
Many of these date from the early Middle Ages. One
of the most interesting and historic castles is located at
Cachtice in western Slovakia shown above. The foundations of the castle date from the first half of the 13th
century. It was destroyed in 1708. There is hardly an individual, young or old in Slovakia, who is not acquainted
with the castle’s dark history. Its unfortunate fame was
gained when Alzbeta Bathoryova, who lived in the castle
at the end of the 16th and early 17th century. Legend
has it that she killed young girls so she could bathe in
their blood to keep her youth and beauty. In 1611, she
was imprisoned and sentenced to life in prison in Bytca
by Lord Thurzo. In 1708, the castle was burned down
by the rebel army of Frantisek Rakoczi. Today the castle
is a popular site for movie making. Hollywood used the
location to shoot scenes for the movie Dragonheart. The
castle continues to be a popular tourist attraction.
PAGE 8
News and Views from Slovakia...
asking now where Slovaks are defined? Where have they
disappeared to from the legislation?” said Rafaj.
The SNS vice-chair went on to emphasize that Slovaks
form an indigenous nation, which is why SNS is pushing for
“these unsequestrable and inalienable rights to be defined in
the spheres of language, culture, indigenousness, as well as
original spiritual and Christian values.”
Rafaj also said that SNS is planning to organize an international conference on multiculturalism. The event could
take place in late April or early May.
Forty-five Slovaks brought back
from Egypt on government planes
A total of 45 Slovaks and foreign nationals who have
lived and worked in Egypt for a long time were brought
back to Slovakia by the Slovak government’s special aircraft on February 3, TASR learned later that day.
The aircraft landed at Bratislava airport shortly after
5:30 p.m. On board were thirty-four passengers who were
Slovak, eight were Czechs, two Portuguese and one was a
Hungarian citizen.
The decision to dispatch the aircraft was announced by
Foreign Affairs Minister Mikulas Dzurinda on February 2,
Dzurinda noted that there are about 100 Slovak citizens in
Egypt. Dzurinda didn’t rule out the possibility that tourists
will also be able to board the special airplane if there are
vacant seats. He said that those who want to leave Egypt on
Thursday were supposed to contact the Slovak Embassy in
Cairo or the diplomatic service at the ministry in advance.
Ukraine wants Slovakia’s help
in introducing pension reform
The Ukrainian government is interested in cooperation
with Slovakia in the sphere of pension system reform, said
Ukrainian Social Affairs Minister Serhyi Tyhypko on February 3rd after meeting with Slovak Finance Minister Ivan
Miklos in Bratislava.
According to Tyhypko, Ukraine wants to involve Slovak experts from both governing structures and non-government organizations in the process of carrying out reforms to
Ukraine’s pension system.
“We take a very positive view of the fact that Slovakia
has carried out considerable reforms in this sphere. For the
first time since gaining independence, Ukraine has a consolidated government that is directed at carrying out such
reforms and is able to carry them out,” said Tyhypko.
Representatives of the International Monetary Fund
(IMF) are currently in Ukraine assessing the results of cooperation and whether the agreed conditions for providing
another tranche of credit have been met. “We think that the
stability of cooperation is very important and we’ll fulfill
everything that concerns the agreement that we have with
the IMF. A key measure that we have to carry out is the first
phase of pension reform,” said Tyhypko.
Sulik calls SaS nominee’s
severance pay an outrage
It’s plain outrageous that former head of the Kosicebased state-owned TEKO heating plant Ivan Zich(Freedom
and Solidarity/SaS) should receive $112,000 in severance
pay after holding the post for a mere few weeks, Parliamentary Chairman and SaS leader Richard Sulik said on February 3.
“I’m sorry to hear that it was an SaS nominee,
Mr.(Ivan) Zich, who showed such greed and had himself
paid $112,000. Perhaps he’ll find some discretion in himself
and won’t accept the money after all,” said Sulik, adding
that he’ll explore ways to see that the severance payment to
Zich does not materialize.
Sulik also admitted that Zich wasn’t a good nominee.
“As soon as we realized this, I personally insisted on Zich
being replaced,” he added.
Zich was appointed as TEKO board chairman after a
crisis management team took over the company. He was recalled from the post on December 21, 2010 after the tenure
of the crisis management team was over.
According to the chairman of the leading Opposition
Smer-SD party Robert Fico, Zich’s severance payment was
designed to serve as an excuse for TEKO’s privatization. “I
believe that they did it on purpose so as to have yet another
reason for privatization...saying that something like this
could never happen in a privately-owned company,” said
former premier Fico.
According to Fico, the government has it eyes set on
“one of the biggest robberies ever seen here in Slovakia,”
namely the privatization of heating plants. He said that the
move won’t translate into their more efficient management
but into massive increases in heat prices.
House overrules president’s veto
of Language Act amendment
Parliament at its session on February 2 overrode President Ivan Gasparovic’s veto and approved an amendment to
the State Language Act with 78 votes, TASR learned later in
the day.
The piece of legislation was originally designed to become effective as of January 1, but has now been tweaked to
come into effect as of March 1.
Gasparovic returned the law to the House on the grounds
that the amendment leaves the decision as to whether a fine
will be imposed if the Act is breached to the Culture Ministry. Gasparovic’s proposed change was turned down by the
Members of Parliament, however.
The opposition Slovak National Party (SNS) recently
announced that it might challenge the law at the Constitutional Court if it were passed again. “The amendment has serious shortcomings. If the Coalition overrides the president’s
veto, this law will end up at the Constitutional Court. We’ll
strive for this,” said SNS vice-chair Rafael Rafaj, adding that
the party wants to exhaust all legislative options before filing
the complaint. SNS will need allies in this process, and is
counting on Smer-SD members of parliament to support its
initiative.
The amendment, as submitted by the Culture Ministry,
narrows down the number of situations in which sanctions visa-vis the use of Slovak or the failure to do so will apply. It was
designed to tone down the law currently in effect after changes
made by the previous cabinet headed by Robert Fico.
Most importantly, penalties - the most criticized instrument in the law - will as of March only be imposed in cases in
which information on the lives, health, security or property of
Slovak citizens is concerned or in which information published
by public administration authorities is not presented in Slovak.
Early estimate: Slovak economy
grew by 4 percent in 2010
and throughout the EU,” said Faymann, who reinterated his
country’s negative stance towards nuclear energy.
Ukrainian Prime Minister Mykola Azarov confirmed
Ukraine’s interest in securing reliable deliveries of energy
resources to Central Europe. He noted that the Ukrainian
route is the shortest and cheapest one.(A dispute between
Russia and Ukraine over the price of gas and alleged illicit
withdrawal of gas from pipelines by the latter prompted the
Russians to cut off gas deliveries in the midst of winter two
years ago, causing a gas crisis in Central Europe - ed. note)
Gasparovic hip-replacement
operation without complications
An operation during which surgeons provided a hip-replacement for President Ivan Gasparovic went well on February 14 at the Ladislav Derer Teaching Hospital in Kramare in
Bratislava. During a press conference later that day, doctors
from the facility indicated that the operation went well with no
complications. President Gasparovic turns 70 in March.
“There were no complications, he was smiling after the
operation, claiming that he wasn’t suffering any pain,” said
the head of the Injury Surgery Clinic, Dr. Peter Simko.
Gasparovic had been struggling with a hip problem for
almost ten years and had suffered severe pain for the past
six years. “This indicated the need for an earlier operation,
but the president waited until a later phase,” said Simko,
adding that the doctors hope to have Gasparovic back on his
feet with aid of crutches within a few days.
The operation will not prevent the president from carrying out his official duties as head of state, the doctors confirmed.
Average salaries grew in
most sectors in 2010
The average monthly salaries in Slovakia in 2010 grew
in all monitored sectors year-on-year apart from the mining
and quarrying sector, and rose most significantly in selected
market services( by 6.6 percent year-on-year) and in industry(5.3 percent), the Statistics Office said on February 10.
Salaries in wholesale grew by 4.9 percent year-onyear. Other increases were: in pubs and restaurants - 4.7
percent, in accommodation services - 4.2 percent, in information and communication activities and in the sale
and maintenance of motor vehicles - both 2 percent, and in
transport and warehousing - 1.7 percent.
The highest average nominal monthly salary in 2010 in
Slovakia was paid to those in information and communication services - $1,900, followed by industry - $1,000. Average salaries in wholesale reached just under $1,000, while
in retail the average salary stood at $750.
When it comes to the data for December, the average nominal monthly salary grew most rapidly in selected
market services - by 8.4 percent year-on-year. Other increases were: in transport and warehousing - 6.3 percent,
in construction - 5.1 percent, in industry - 3.1 percent, in
wholesale - 2.8 percent, and in retail - 1.8 percent. Salaries
in information and communications fell by 4.9 percent in
December.
The Slovak economy grew by 4 percent year-on-year in
2010, according to a preliminary estimate published by the
Statistics Office on February 15. In 2009, the Slovak economy contracted by 4.7 percent.
According to the statistics office, gross domestic product in the final quarter of 2010 reached $19.5 billion, which
represents a 3.5-percent growth, year-on-year. This was the
slowest rate of growth of all quarters of last year, however,
with GDP growth decelerating continuously last year from
quarter to quarter. The GDP grew by 4.7 percent, year-onyear, in the first quarter of 2010, by 4.2 percent in the second
quarter and by 3.8 percent in the third quarter.
When seasonal influences are taken into account, the
Slovak economy produced goods and services worth $14.5 Activists call on Premier to say
billion during the fourth quarter of 2010, which represents a no to pipeline through Zitny Ostrov
3.4-percent growth, year-on-year. A more exact estimate will
The Civil Association ‘No to the Pipeline Through Zitbe published by the stats office on March 3.
ny Ostrov’ is calling on Prime Minister Iveta Radicova to
initiate a discussion on the Bratislava-Schwechat Pipeline
V-4: energy security is vital
project during a session of the meeting of the prime ministers of the Visegrad Four group(Slovakia, Hungary, Poland
issue in Central Europe
Discussions between the Visegrad Four(Slovakia, the and the Czech Republic), Austria and Ukraine on February
Czech Republic, Hungary and Poland) on one side and its 15, the chairman of the association Tomas Mikulec told
closest neighbors - Germany, Austria and Ukraine - on the TASR on February 14.
“In our opinion, it is important that the prime minother side, are vital for energy security in the region of Central Europe and the entire EU, premiers of the seven coun- ister at the premiers’ session clearly and directly tells her
Austrian counterpart that Slovakia doesn’t agree with the
tries agreed at a summit in Bratislava on February 15.
The issue is key for the V4, according to Czech Premier oil-pipeline route in the way it has been proposed by the
Petr Necas. “Germany, Austria and Ukraine represent signifi- Austrian side,” read Mikulec’s statement.
“At the same time, we’re pointing out that this oil link
cant territories through which principal energy materials such
as crude oil and natural gas are delivered. Therefore, looking doesn’t resolve anything for Slovakia from the energy point
for alternative delivery routes and close dialogue with these of view. This link appears to be a short-sighted solution to
countries are vital for the energy security of the V4,” said Ne- us due to the threat posed to water resources, as clean water
is becoming the strategic raw material of the 21st century,”
cas.
Austrian chancellor Werner Faymann expressed support he claimed.
The association was set up by students of Bratislava unifor the two planned gas pipelines in southern Europe - the
Nabucco(Turkey, Bulgaria, Romania, Hungary and Austria) versities who are concerned about the future of Zitny Ostrov
and the South Stream(Russia, Bulgaria, the Balkans, Hunga- - the site of the most important drinking-water reservoir in
ry and Austria). “We also support projects of renewable en- Slovakia. The association began collecting signatures in Febergy resources. We’re convinced that they should be carried ruary 2010 for a petition aimed at preventing the construction
out not only by Austria but also the neighboring countries of a pipeline between Slovakia and Austria via Zitny Ostrov.
PAGE 9
Highlights of the Children’s Christmas Party Hosted by Assembly 28 & Wreath 18
Sparetime Bowling Lanes + Slovak Catholic Sokol Club + Douglas, Mass. + December 5
Getting ready to serve the pizza to the youngsters are, l-r, Lori Cyr, Tori Landry, Deb
Johnson and Judy Manyak.
Youngsters with their certificates for free bowing, compliments of Spartime
Bowling Lanes.
Santa poses with the youngsters who enjoyed the afternoon.
All smiles on the faces of the youngsters as they begin to bowl.
PAGE 10
Scenes of the Annual Children’s Christmas Party Hosted by Group 17 “Rev. Francis Skutil”
The Camelot Bowling Lanes + Youngstown, Ohio + Sunday, December 5, 2010
Brianna Brammer, Candice Kraykovich, Jenna Troxil and Monica Shirilla.
Santa flanked by, l-r, Supreme Treasurer and Group 17 President James G. Jerek,
and committee coordinators Edith Babik and Nancy Kropolinsky.
L-r, Jackie Polchak with daughter, Michelle DiMuzio and granddaughter, Ava.
Andrew and Frankie Cimmentoi with a familiar “Santa.”
Emily Rose Snitzer, the youngest participant, is
shown with her grandmother, Patti Snitzer.
R.J.Trimble waiting for Santa to arrive.
Mia Stana hugs a familiar “Santa.”
Kaitlyn and Haylie Rankin.
Terrie Williams and daughter, Sarah.
Judy Babik with daughter, Lindsey Smith
and grandson, R.J.Trimble.
Santa with Nick Olexia.
PAGE 11
Slovak Catholic Fraternalists Participate in the 38th Annual March for Life in Opposition to Abortion
Washington, D.C. + Monday, January 24 + Celebrating Life from Conception to Natural Death!
was filled to overflowing with
thousands of young people, many
of whom remained through the
night, who came to demonstrate
their respect for life from conception to natural death.
Beginning at 11 a.m. on January
24, thousands of march participants
began to gather at the National
Mall where they heard more than
three dozen lawmakers address the
crowd during the rally to start the
annual March for Life. In addition
to the speakers, a number of groups
entertained. A number of U.S.
Senators and Representatives were
among the lawmakers who presented spirited reasons why ‘Roe v.
Wade’ must be overturned. There is
renewed enthusiasm in many parts
of the country given the present political climate. Following the Mall
activities at about 2 p.m., the participants, estimated to exceed more
than 100,000, then began the official march along Constitution Avenue to the Supreme Court building.
We are pleased that so many of
our members from so many parts
of the country braved the frigid
weather conditions to affirm our
organization’s commitment to the
sacredness of life and our opposition to abortion. We join the majority of Americans who oppose
abortion-on-demand and want
innocent human life to be protected especially when it is most
defenseless.
Students from Benedictine High School in Cleveland, Oh.under the leadership of their principal, Rev.
Gerard A. Gonda, O.S.B. joined the contingent of Slovak Catholic fraternalists in this year’s march.
The Most Rev. Joseph C. Bambera, the new Bishop of Scranton, Pa. along with the Slovak Catholic fraternalists marching on the streets of our nation’s capital.
Rev. Thomas Muldowney stopped by to greet some of the Slovak Catholic fraternalists who participated in this year’s march.
With the U.S. Capitol in the distance, the Slovak fraternalists march with the Slovak flag borne high by Sue Ann M.Seich. Shown with her are, from the left, Kelly
Group 9 Sokolky from Johnstown, Pa., including Nancy Fesko and Francine Calpin, shown Palchanis, Danielle Zablotney, Heather Horvath, Rev. Andrew S. Hvozdovic and
under our organization’s banner, stopped by to greet our Slovak Catholic fraternalists.
Suzanne Horvath.
Supreme Chaplain, Rev. Andrew S. Hvozdovic, third from the left is shown with fellow Slovak fraternal leaders, including, l-r, Irene Dortleff, national secretary of the
First Catholic Slovak Ladies Association(FCSLA); an unidentified young lady; Dr.
Deborah Brindza of the FCSLA, Therese M. Kluchinski, president of the Ladies Pa.
Slovak Catholic Union, Mary Ann S. Johanek and Msgr. Peter A. Dora, president and
national chaplain, respectively of the FCSLA.
PAGE 12
Group 9 to host 19th Annual Bowling
Tournament set for Ebensburg, Pa.
Group 9 “SS. Cyril and Methodius” will host its 19th annual
bowling tournament on Saturday,
March 19 at the Lakeview Bowling Lanes in Ebensburg, Pa. Hosting this year’s exciting competition will be Assembly 79 of Lilly,
Pa. The first group will begin action on the lanes at 10 a.m. The
second group is scheduled to begin at 2 p.m. Teams which prefer
the morning session should contact this year’s tournament director, Tom Muldoon in advance. The
tournament is open to all Group 9
Sokol members.
An enjoyable tournament has
been planned and will consist of
men’s and women’s team competition. In addition, individual
prizes will be awarded. Cost of
bowling for Sokol members will
be $25.00 - which includes bowling, prizes and the traditional victory dinner following the competition on the lanes. Snacks will be
provided during the competition
and BYOB. However, Group 9
assumes no responsibility for the
demeanor of any participants.
Following the competition at
Lakeview Lanes, we will travel
to nearby Lilly, Pa. where the
traditional victory dinner will be
enjoyed at the Slovak Catholic
Sokol Club there. The Sokol Club
is located on Railroad Street. The
dinner begins at 6 p.m. with a cash
bar available. Cost of the dinner
for guests not bowling is $15.00
per person. Group 9 will subsidize
the dinner cost for all bowlers.
Deadline for all bowling entries
is Monday, March 14, 2011. All
dinner reservations must likewise
be made by the March 14 deadline. Send all reservations to: Tom
Muldoon, 1089 Main Street, Lilly,
PA 15938. Each year, the number
of bowlers participating has been
increasing. Continuing in this tradition, we look forward to seeing
a great turnout of bowlers from all
our Group 9 Sokol lodges at this
year’s tournament. Come join us
for an enjoyable competition in
the best traditions of Group 9 Sokol good sportsmanship and camaraderie.
Zdar Boh!
Thomas Muldoon
Assembly 79 Sports Director
Lodge
Jottings
a traditional luncheon and fraternal
program in the social hall of the parish located at 406 East 67th Street.
All members, as well as our Brother
Sokols and Sister Sokolky from our
neighboring lodges, are welcome to
join us. Editor Daniel F. Tanzone
will be the principal speaker at the
luncheon. Following the luncheon,
we will conduct our lodge’s annual
meeting.
At this year’s celebration, we will
celebrate the 88th anniversary of the
founding of our Assembly. It was in
April of 1923, that a group of young
Slovaks met at St. John Nepomucene parish and organized a new
lodge of the Slovak Catholic Sokol.
Over these many years, we have
enjoyed active participation in the
various fraternal, cultural and sporting events of our organization. In
addition, we have supported many
Slovak activities associated with our
parish. Our St. Joseph’s Day observance continues a wonderful fraternal tradition of honoring the patron
of our lodge as well as all of our
“Josephs” and “Josephines” among
us. This year’s patronal feast day
observance will observe its 65th annivesary. It was in 1946 that we first
hosted such a celebration.
We look forward to seeing a good
turnout at this year’s observance as
we celebrate Sokol fellowship and
fraternalism in the Big Apple.
Zdar Boh!
Dr. Ladislav Korcek
President
Anna Korcak
Financial Secretary
PITTSBURGH, PA
Assembly 16
Our next regular meeting is set
for Monday, March 7 at our Slovak
Catholic Sokol Club, South Side,
beginnning at 7:30 p.m. All members are urged to attend.
At this meeting, we will select
delegates who will represent our
lodge at the upcoming 31st quadrennial convention which is scheduled
for July 30 to August 3 here in Pittsburgh. Those aspiring to serve as a
delegate must be members in good
standing and qualify to serve according to the bylaws of our organization. Further details of the national
convention as well as other lodge
business will also be on our meeting
agenda. Come join us for a pleasant
fraternal evening.
Zdar Boh!
Angelo Capozoli
Recording Secretary
PITTSBURGH, PA.
Wreath 22
Our next regularly scheduled
meeting of our wreath is set for
Monday, March 7 at the Slovak
Catholic Sokol Club, South Side,
beginning at 7 p.m. All members are
invited to attend.
At this meeting we will collect
the delegate forms prepared for
those representing our Wreath at
PAGE 13
Celebrating cultural diversity in our midst
Wreath 111 Hosts Interesting and Diverse
Fraternal Outreach Projects in Lorain, Ohio
by Anna Gaydosh
Since 1922 Wreath 111 in Lorain,
Ohio has been a beehive of fraternal
activities. In recent years, its monthly
meetings include a variety of presentations and activities of a cultural nature.
A particular topic is selected for each
monthly meeting with follow-up activities.
The monthly meetings held in November and December 2010 were
unique and attracted a good number of
members. At the November 8th meeting, the Sokolky celebrated Italian
culture with a talk on famous people,
places of Italian heritage as well as an
explanation of the meaning of the Italian flag. Following the presentation,
a lively discussion followed. In addition, several Sokolky made traditional
Italian biscuits and pizzelles for tasting
pleasure. An enjoyable and flavorful
evening was had by all.
On December 5th, members of
Wreath 111 joined with the members of the United Slovak Societies
of Lorain in preparing a traditional
Slovak Christmas Eve supper, Vilija
or stedry vecer at the American Slovak Home. The Sokolky of Wreath
111 were asked to prepare the pirohy
for the meal for the more than 200
guests expected. Our hardworking
Sokolky prepared more than 600 potato-cheese pirohy along with enough
sweet cabbage pagach for the guests.
With the close of Holy Trinity parish,
the Vilija was a wonderful opportunity
for the former members of the Slovak
church who now worship at a variety
of parishes where they reside, to celebrate this wonderful Slovak faith tradition together.
At the dinner, all the culinary specialities were served and the traditions observed. We were privileged to
have the talented and spirited Lucinka
Children’s Slovak Folk Ensemble of
Cleveland entertain us. It was also
an honor to have Kaitlyn Knick, the
Slovak Princess of the Lorain Interna-
tional Festival, sing several folksongs
in Slovak.
Finally, we wish to thank all our
members who supported our annual raffle which support our various
charitable outreach projects. The winners included: 1st prize of $100 won
by Kathy Trifiletti of Lorain, the 2nd
prize of $75 won by Amy Grude of
Wakeman, the 3rd prize of $50 won
by Lisa Palos of Lorain, the 4th prize
of $25 won by Jeanie Massimiane of
Elyria, and the 5th prize of $25 won
by Donna Dodson of Amhest.
We look forward to an active fraternal year in 2011. Our next meeting is
scheduled for Monday, March 14 at
the American Slovak Club beginning
at 6:30 p.m. The meeting’s theme will
be celebrating the feast of St. Patrick
since all of us are “Irish” for at least
one day of the year. An enjoyable evening has been planned and we look
forward to seeing a good turnout of
our members. Zdar Boh!
Annual raffle committee pose for a photo and include front row, l-r,
Helen Virant and Glenice Zellina, president of Wreath 111; second
row, l-r, Marcy Turton, Fran Hobar, Dorothy Hobar and Marge
Kurta; and third row, l-r, Bernie Steadman, Judy Hromada, Ann
Zuffa and Anna Gaydosh.
Enjoying the “Italian” night are seated, l-r,Valerie Konecny, Chris Nedleman, Glenice Zelina and Ann Zuffa .
Standing are, l-r, Marge Kurta, Helen Zemanek, Helen Virant, Michele Mager and Marcy Turton.
Anna Gaydosh, treasurer of Wreath 111, displays some of the sweet
cabbage pagach prepared by the Wreath 111 Sokolky.
Members of the Lucinka Children’s Slovak Folk Ensemble of Cleveland entertained at the Vilija supper at the American Slovak Club.
Kaitlyn Knick, who reigned as the Slovak Princess at the Lorain
International Festival entertained at the Vilija dinner.
Displaying some of the more than 600 pirohy prepared by the Sokolky for the Vilija dinner are from
the left, Marge Kurta, Glenice Zelina, Michele Mager, Helen Zemanek, and Steve and Anna Gaydosh.
PAGE 14
For students entering a Catholic Grade School (Grades 2-8)
Held in Kenosha, Wis.
As per the decision of the delegates at the
28th National Convention held in Buffalo, NY in
August, 1999, a fraternal benefit is being offered
to our young members attending a Catholic
Grade School. The Slovak Catholic Sokol is
pleased to offer $250.00 Grants to our young
Sokols and Sokolky in each of our organization's
nineteen Groups. Two grants per each Group are
available to any qualified Sokol member entering
a Catholic Grade School (Grades 2 through 8).
The annual meeting of Group 4,
Chicago, Ill. under the patronage of
Bishop Stefan Moyzes, took place on
Saturday, Sepember 11, 2010 at the
Parkway Chateau in Kenosha, Wis.
The meeting began at 10:30 a.m.
Group 4 President Tony L. Scuglik
called the meeting to order at 10:30
a.m. and welcomed all the officers and
delegates to the 2010 annual meeting.
Brother Scuglik led the assemblage
in the opening prayer, dedicated to all
the living and deceased members of
Group 4. After the prayer, the Pledge
of Allegiance to the Flag was recited
by all.
The president acknowledged the
presence of Supreme Vice President
Julie A. Dobbs, who was a delegate
to the annual meeting representing
Wreath 93 of Milwaukee, Wis.
The president then asked the Secretary, Sister Gloria Scuglik to read the
roll call of officers and delegates. In
attendance were a total of 10 officers
and 14 delegates representing the following Group 4 lodges: Assembly 11,
Chicago, Ill.; Assembly 113, Kenosha,
Wis.; and Wreath 93, Milwaukee, Wis.
There was no representation from Assembly 257, Chicago, Ill. and Wreath
81, Whiting, Ind.
The minutes of the previous annual
meeting, held September 12, 2009
were distributed for all the delegates to
review. Following a short discussion,
on a motion by Brother Bill Gemoll,
seconded by Sister Julie A. Dobbs,
the minutes were accepted by the delegates.
The president then extended Congratulations to our young members
who were recipients of 2010 Slovak
Catholic Sokol Scholarship Grants.
Members of Group 4 received three
scholarship grants for those attending
a Catholic grade school; two grants for
those attending Catholic high school
and three grants for those attending
college. The president asked Sister Julie A. Dobbs, our Supreme Vice President, to provide an explanation regarding the proposed changes to our Sokol
scholarship program for the coming
year 2011. Sister Dobbs explained
that the revised program would be
published in our official publication
as soon as it is finalized. The president
thanked Sister Dobbs for her contribution to this meeting.
Sister Jennifer Romine, our Group
4 Physical Directress, presented the
annual report of the Group 4 Physical
Fitness Board. She indicated that the
Group 4 drillers in Milwaukee enjoyed
a great year and have scheduled many
activities. The following members of
the Group 4 Physical Fitness Board
attended the Supreme Clinic - Kurz
at Kutztown University in Kutztown,
Pa., June 24-27, 2010 in anticipation of
the upcoming 45th International Slet:
Brother Bill Gemoll, Brother Brad
Hoeck, Sister Alesia Staskiewicz and
Sister Stephanie Hass. On Sunday,
July 25, 2010, the drillers participated
in the 80th annual Slovak Day hosted
by the Federated Slovak Societies
of Milwaukee. Our youngsters performed and ran the games and activities for the children. In October, they
hosted a Fall Hayride and in November, they took part in the Jingle Bell
of the Annual Meeting of
Slovak Catholic Sokol Catholic Grade School Grants Minutes
Group 4 “Bishop Stefan Moyzes”
Eligibility
A. Applicant must be a member of the Slovak
Catholic Sokol in good standing, holding a
permanent Life Insurance Certificate in the
amount of not less than $3,000, and has
been a member for at least five years.
B. One parent must be a S.C.S. member.
C. The principal of the Catholic Grade School
must verify the enrollment of the applicant.
Application
This application must be received on or
before, March 31, 2011 with a clear, small (2"x3"
wallet size) head and shoulders photograph.
Application is also available on the Internet @
Disqualification
An applicant who neglects to submit or complete any part of these requirements before
the established deadline will automatically be
disqualified.
Acknowledgment
An acknowledgment of the Grant should be
made in writing by the recipient as soon as possible, if you are awarded a Grant.
Return of Grant
If for any reason the Grant is not used by
the recipient, the entire (or portion of) grant not
utilized must be returned.
✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄
(Detach here)
SLOVAK CATHOLIC SOKOL CATHOLIC GRADE SCHOOL GRANT APPLICATION
Group #_______________
Assembly/Wreath #_______________
Name ___________________________________________________________________
Address _________________________________________________________________
City________________________ State________________ Zip Code ______________
Date of Birth_________________________________________ Current Age __________
Home Phone (_____)________________
School Phone (_____) ________________
area code
area code
S.C.S. Insurance Certificate #____________
Face Amount_____________________
Face Amount_____________________
Face Amount_____________________
Father's name_____________________________________ Are you a member?______
Mother's name_____________________________________ Are you a member?______
Parent’s S.C.S. Insurance Certificate # ______________________Face Amount________
Parent’s S.C.S. Insurance Certificate # ______________________Face Amount________
Are you a previous Slovak Catholic Sokol Scholarship Recipient? ___________________
(yes/no)
If yes, what Year?____________
School verification
(to be completed by Grade School Principal)
I,______________________________ Principal of_______________________________
(Principal's signature)
(Name of School)
Catholic Grade School, verify that_________________________________ is a student at
(Name of student)
the above school and will be entering _________ Grade in the 2011-2012 school year.
Are you currently participating in Slovak Catholic Sokol Activities? Yes_____
Deadline for receipt of this application is March 31, 2011.
Return completed application to:
Grade School Grant
205 Madison St.,P.O. Box 899
Passaic, NJ 07055
No____
Walk, a benefit project for arthritis. In
December they will enjoy their annual
Christmas party. Regular gym classes
in preparation for the 45th Slet are
scheduled to begin in January 2011.
It is anticipated that Group 4 can field
30 Slet participants for the 2011 Slet at
Kutztown University in Kutztown, Pa.
The 45th Slet is scheduled for July 1216, 2011. President Scuglik thanked
Sister Romine for her report. On a motion by Sister Helen Evica, seconded
by Sister Rose Trokan, the report of the
Physical Directress was accepted.
President Scuglik then announced
that he had appointed Brother Bill
Gemoll as acting Group 4 Physical Director until our elections, which will be
held at the Group 4 annual meeting on
September 17, 2011.
The annual Group 4 financial report was passed out to all the delegates
for their review. Brother Paul Scuglik
presented the report of the auditors
and recommendations regarding the
financial report. All the Group’s books
are current and all the bills have been
paid to date. The auditors recommend
approval of this financial report as written. There were no questions regarding
this report and on a motion by Sister
Pauline Scuglik, seconded by Sister
Irene Tupy, the financial report was accepted.
The president then discussed the
events for the upcoming year, 2011.
He instructed Sister Jennifer Romine,
the Physical Directress, to obtain a
contract for bus transportation for our
drillers to the 45th International Slet
in Kutztown, Pa. before the end of
the year, so that we may program our
Group expenses. He also discussed
the subject of membership, which is
declining each year and how it has a
direct impact on the Group’s income.
He discussed the new Sokol membership policies in the current membership campaign and recommended that
everyone try to enroll a new member
before the end of 2010.
President Scuglik announced that
Group 4 would combine the 100th anniversary celebration with the 2011 annual meeting which will be held on Saturday, September 17, 2011. Additional
details of the celebration and meeting
will be sent out to all the Wreaths and
Asemblies and published in the Slovak
Catholic Falcon. He will gladly accept
any input from the Wreaths and Assemblies regarding this matter.
Our 2011 annual meeting will be
held at the Camelot Banquet Hall,
located at 8624- West 95th Street in
Hickory Hills, Ill. on September 17,
2011. The meeting will begin at 10
a.m. with the celebration following. He
reminded the delegates that all Group
4 lodges need to be represented at this
historic celebration. The annual meeting which will precede the celebration
is also important in that it will include
the election of officers who will serve
Group 4 for the coming four years.
With no further business, the annual
meeting was adjourned on a motion by
Sister Osterbrink, seconded by Brother
Gemoll. The meeting closed with a
prayer following by the singing of
God Bless America. Zdar Boh!
Respectfully submitted,
Gloria A. Scuglik, Secretary
Sokol Birthdays
FEBRUARY 13
Daniel O’Sullivan, Pelham
Manor, N.Y., a member of Assembly 16, Clifton, N.J. Belated wishes.
FEBRUARY 21
Logan Marie Maloney, Acworth, Ga., a member of Wreath 22,
Pittsburgh, Pa. Belated wishes.
FEBRUARY 23
Rev. Richard A. Bay, Clifton,
NJ., a chaplain of Assembly 162,
Clifton, N.J.
Margaret Glavinic, Johnstown,
Pa., member of Assembly 82, Dunlo.
Pa.
Audrey A. Graham, WilkesBarre, Pa., a member of Assembly
59, Wilkes-Barre, Pa
FEBRUARY 24
Margaret M. Rude, Minneapolis,
Minn., a member of Wreath 47, Minneapolis, Minn.
FEBRUARY 25
Alaina M. Hawranko, Crofton,
Minn., a member of Wreath 22,
Pittsburgh, Pa.
Jessica Krasauskis, Plain Field,
Ill., a member of Assembly 11,
Chicago, Ill.
Christopher M. Buck, Canfield,
Oh., a member of Assembly 108,
Youngstown, Oh.
Mary A. Renna, Lakewood,
N.J., a member of Wreath 168, New
York City.
FEBRUARY 26
Anne Dailidonis, Chicago, Ill., a
member ofAssembly 11, Chicago, Ill.
Andrew James Macurak, Acworth, Ga., a member of Assembly
16, Pittsburgh, Pa.
FEBRUARY 28
Rev. Philip A. Altavilla, Clarks
Summit, Pa., national president of
the Slovak Catholic Federation and
a member of Assembly 59, WilkesBarre, Pa.
Mary Lou Chojnicki, Pittsburgh,
Pa., a member of Wreath 22, Pittsburgh, Pa.
FEBRUARY 29
Robert C. Hess, Cedar Grove,
N.J., a member of Assembly 162,
Clifton, N.J.
MARCH 1
Joseph J. Sovcik, Jr., Santa Fe,
N.M., a member of Assembly 257,
Chicago, Ill.
MARCH 2
Zachary A. Banaszek, WilkesBarre, Pa., a member of Assembly
59, Wilkes-Barre, Pa.
Christine Hill, Watertown, Conn.,
a member ofAssembly 219, Yonkers,
N.Y.
Joseph M. Oros, Reading, Pa.,
financial secretary of Assembly 261,
Reading, Pa.
Nancy A. Ramirez, Pittsburgh,
Pa., a member of Wreath 22, Pittsburgh, Pa.
MARCH 3
Gloria Carpency, Tamaqua, Pa.,
a member of Assembly 188, Lansford, Pa.
Paul J. Hackash, New Ringgold,
Pa., President of Group 18.
Angela P. Kurnath Hoffer, Ft.
Lauderdale, Fla., a member of Assembly 162 in Clifton, N.J.
Jillian M. Krasauskis, Plainfield,
Ill., a member of Assembly 11 Chicago, Ill.
Ladislav Kolozi, New Found-
land, N.J., a member of Assembly
162, Clifton, N.J.
Rose F. Lijewski, Pittsburgh, Pa., a
member of Wreath 22, Pittsburgh, Pa.
Jeffrey Mangan, Wilkes-Barre,
Pa., a member of Assembly 59,
Wilkes-Barre, Pa.
MARCH 5
Cheryl L. Chuba, Dauphin, Pa.,
a member of Assembly 59, WilkesBarre, Pa.
Elizabeth A. Hennis, Bridgeview, Ill., a member of Assembly 11,
Chicago, Ill.
MARCH 6
Paula Ferrato, Barrington, R.I.,
a member of Wreath 15 in Perryopolis, Pa.
Ted Grzybowski, Clifton, N.J., a
member of Assembly 162, Clifton,
N.J.
MARCH 7
Michele Banaszek, Wilkes-Barre,
Pa., a member of Assembly 59,
Wilkes-Barre, Pa.
Anna M. Maize, Ormond Beach,
Fla., a member of Assembly 162,
Clifton, N.J.
Kayla L. Troxil, Canfield, Oh., a
member of Wreath 54, Youngstown,
Oh.
MARCH 8
Lynn M. Flore, West Mifflin, Pa., a
MARCH 9
Felix S. Gula, Livingston Manor,
N.Y., a member of Assembly 182,
New York City.
Cassandra Johnson, Point Pleasant, N.J., a member of Assembly 162,
Clifton, N.J.
Tessie A. Oros, Reading, Pa., a
member of Wreath 155 in Reading,
Pa.
Frank J. Pavlica, Clifton, N.J., a
member of Assembly 162, Clifton, N.J.
MARCH 10
Michael J. Kostolansky, Donora, Pa., a member of Assembly 25,
Perryopolis, Pa.
MARCH 11
Phyllis J. Flynn, Pittsburgh, Pa., a
MARCH 12
Livia Polanski, Morris Plains,
N.J., a member of Assembly 162,
Clifton, N.J.
MARCH 13
Larraine Fanzo, Pittsburgh, Pa., a
Anna Gaydosh, Amherst, Oh., a
member of Wreath 111, Lorain, Oh.
Allison Iancale, Hamden, Conn.,
a member of Wreath 1, Bridgeport,
Conn.
Patricia Iancale, Holland, Mass.,
a member of Wreath 1, Bridgeport,
Conn.
Jennifer M. Salt, Belford, N.J., a
member of Wreath 147, Larksville, Pa.
John P. J. Lazor, Minneapolis,
Minn., a member of Assembly 34,
Minneapolis, Minn.
Helen Wangerien, Oldsmar, Fla.,
a member of Wreath 111, Lorain, Oh.
MARCH 14
Steven Bucko, Oakdale, Minn., a
member of Assemby 34, Minneapolis, Minn.
Stephanie Eckenrode, Lilly, Pa., a
member of Assembly 79 in Lilly, Pa.
Susan Noblitt, San Diego, Ca., a
member of Assembly 162, Clifton,
N.J.
Lodge
Jottings
the upcoming 31st Slovak Catholic
Sokol Quadrennial Convention, July
30 to August 3. The signed delegate
forms need to be returned to the
Home Office by the deadline date of
March 31, 2011. Plans for our various upcoming fraternal and social
events will also be discussed. Input
from our members will insure their
success. We have a busy summer
season ahead with our young people
competing at the 45th International
Slet and our hosting of the national
convention.
Following our business meeting, we will enjoy a small social in
which we will enjoy cakes and cookies baked by our own beakers, Dolly
Lutz. We look forward to seeing a
good turnout of our sister Sokolky at
this gathering. An enjoyable evening
is assured.
Zdar Boh!
Joan Yanosick
Recording Secretary
PAGE 15
Easter cards available from Slovak Institute
The Slovak Institute, a Reference Library located at St. Andrew Svorad Benedictine Abbey
in Cleveland, offers an array of
items of interest to Americans of
Slovak ancestry. The Institute offers a number of seasonal items,
including Easter cards in Slovak.
They are 10 cards to a pack and are
available for $10.00 plus $4.00 for
shipping and handling. Other items
available include small flags of
Slovakia at $4.00 each or large Slovak flags, three feet by five feet, at
$20.00. Again add, $4.00 for shipping and handling. A large map of
Slovakia is also available at $10.00
plus shipping and handling. Make
checks payable to: Slovak Institute
and mail same to 10510 Buckeye
Road, Cleveland, OH. 44104.
The Slovak Institute offers a
book list offering it large supply
of books in both Slovak and English. For a book list or other items
of interest, call the Slovak Institute
at tel. (216)721-5033, ext. 294.
Andrew F. Hudak, serves as the
director and Joseph J. Hornack is
the assistant director of the Slovak
Institute. Tours of the Slovak Institute are available by appointment.
Milwaukee’s Pre-Lenten Slovak celebration March 5
The annual pre-Lenten celebra- talented, lively and colorful Tatra
tion fasiangy hosted by Milwau- Slovak Dancers who bring the rich
kee’s Assembly 20 of the Slovak dancing and singing traditions of
League of America is set for Satur- Slovakia to life.
day, March 5 at the Knights of CoAdvance tickets are available
lumbus Hall located at 3200 South at $4.50 while at the door the cost
103rd Street(103rd & Oklahoma) is $5.00. For tickets or additional
in Greenfield, Wis. Festivities be- information on this year’s celebragin at 6 p.m. and will continue until tion, call Betty Valent at (414)
11 p.m. Delicious homemade Slo- 425-6137 or Emily at (414)464vak food and bakery will be avail- 1063. An enjoyable evening has
able from 6 to 10 p.m. Music for been planned. A cordial invitation
dancing and listening pleasure will goes out to the Milwaukee area
Ah-Choo!
be provided all evening. At 7:30 Sokol members to enjoy this fes“It’s freezing outside, you dum- p.m. the traditional cultural feature tivities in anticipation of the Lentmy,” said his friend. “Why are will include a performance by the en season.
you sitting near an open window
soaking your feet in that bucket of
Group 5 Bowling set for Sunday, April 3rd
ice cubes? You’ll catch a horrible
Group 5 “Jan Holly” will host bowler. The traditional victory
cold!”
“I gawd a ‘orrible code,” he re- its annual bowling tournament dinner will be held at the bowlon Sunday, April 3 at Yorktown ing site. An enjoyable afternoon
plied.
“But now you’ll get pneumo- Bowling Lanes in Parma Heights, of Sokol good sportsmanship and
Oh. Action on the lanes begins at fellowship has been planned and
nia!”
“I wand pnemonia. ‘At’s cur- 12:30 p.m. Hosting this year’s fra- we hope to see many new faces
ternal competition will be Assem- among us. All entry forms and
able!”
bly 153 of Parma, Oh. All Group payment need to be sent to: Mar5 members are welcome to partici- tin Zemanek, 6327 Debra Drive,
The Mixing Bowl pate in this annual sporting event. Lorain, Oh. 44053 by the deadline
Entry forms and maps will be date of March 21. If there are any
Dutch Apple Cake
forwarded to all Assemblies and further questions regarding this
2 cups all-purpose flour
Wreaths belonging to Group 5. year’s competition, feel free to call
4 teaspoons baking powder
Tournament costs include: an me at tel. (440)233-6021.
1/4 cup granulated sugar
Zdar Boh!
$8.00 bowling fee, and $8.00 en4 tablespoons shortening
Martin Zemanek
try feel as well as a $12.00 banquet
1 cup milk
Group 5 Sports Director
fee for a total of $27.00 for each
1 egg, beaten
3 medium-sized apples
1/2 cup granulated sugar
(Editor’s note: We have noticed a number of returned
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
copies of our Falcon due to incorrect addresses of our
In a large bowl, sift flour with
members. We ask that when individuals move, that they
baking powder and 1/4 cup sugar.
complete the form below for a change of address or
Then , with a pastry blender or
two knives, using short cutting
call the home office. We thank you for your continued
action, cut in
cooperation)
shortening
until mixture
CHANGE OF ADDRESS OR REQUEST
resembles
coarse cornFOR SLOVAK CATHOLIC FALCON
meal. ComP.O.BOX 899 • 205 MADISON STREET
bine milk and
PASSAIC, N.J. 07055
eggs; add to flour mixture and stir
until blended; set mixture aside.
T
NEW
T
CHANGE T CANCELLATION
Peel, core, quarter and slice
apples(approximately four slices
Certificate No._____________________________________
per quarter).
Spread batter in greased pan.
Name____________________________________________
Arrange apple slices in rows or
a heart pattern on top of batter,
pressing apples lightly into batter
New Address_____________________________________
and keeping apple slices upright
rather than flat. Mix 1/2 cup sugar
City_________________State____________ Zip_________
with cinnamon and sprinkle mixture evenly over apple slices.
Old Address_____________________________________
Bake in preheated 375 degree
oven until cake is set in center,
about 40 minutes.
City__________________State____________Zip_________
PAGE 16
For students currently attending a Catholic High School
Obituaries...
Irene Wettlaufer, 81
Detroit, Mich. member
Irene Wettlaufer passed away
peacefully on December 21, 2010 in
Fraser, Mich. She was 81.
A native of Detroit, Mich., she was
born there, April 3, 1929, daughter of
the late John Kapral and the former
Sofia Krisanda. She was educated locally and was raised in SS. Cyril and
Methodius Slovak parish there. On
August 2, 1952, she married George
Wettlaufer.
She was a long-time member of
our former Sokol Wreath 51 and at
the time of her death belonged to Assembly 36 in Detroit.
Family, friends and fellow fraternalists paid their final respects
to Sister Wettlaufer at the Wasik
Funeral Home in Warren, Mich. A
Mass of Christian burial was celebrated on Tuesday, December 28
at the Church of Our Lady Queen
of All Saints in Warren. Interment
followed locally.
May our departed Sister Sokolka, who so beautifully mirrored
our fraternal way of life, now rest
in peace.
Sister M. Yolanda, SS.C.M.
laid to rest in Danville, Pa.
Sister M. Yolanda(Anna Lederleitner) passed away peacefully at
Emmanuel Center in Danville, Pa. on
Friday, January 14. She was 94.
A native of New York City, she was
born there, daughter of the late John
and Rose (Nemec) Lederleitner on
October 20, 1916. She was a member
of St. John Nepomucene Parish and
completed her elementary education
at the parish school. She hailed from
an wellknown and active New York
Sokol family.
In 1934, she graduated from St.
Cyril Academy. Sister Yolanda received a B.A. from Marywood University, Scranton, and a M.A. in Theology from Villanova.
She entered the novitiate of the
Sisters of SS. Cyril and Methodius on
June 21, 1934, and was received as a
novice on August 22, 1935. On May
5, 1937, Sister made her first profession of vows.
For forty-two years, Sister Yolanda
taught in elementary schools in Connecticut, New Jersey, New York and
Pennsylvania, in grades 3-8. For four
years she served as superior/principal.
She taught Religion on the secondary
level for eight years in the following
high schools: Andrean High School,
Merrillville, Ind.; Lourdes Regional,
Shamokin, Pa.; Lebanon Catholic,
Lebanon, Pa. and Bishop O’Hara,
Dunmore, Pa.
Her other ministries included
sacristan at St. Catherine Laboure
Church in Harrisburg, Pa. for two
years, assistant director of Jankola
Library and Slovak Archives in Danville from 1992-1996 and librarian
and teacher aid at St. Joseph School,
Hazleton, Pa., from 1996-2001.
During her retirement at Maria
Hall in Danville, Sister Yolanda was
a tutor and receptionist. She also was
engaged in the Ministry of Prayer and
Hospitality. Her last days were spent
at Emmanuel Center.
Sister Yolanda is survived by
three nieces, Mrs. Rosemary Waikuny, N. Bellmore, N.Y.; Mrs.
Christine Lee, New York City; and
Mrs. Barbara Oatman, Rockville
Centre, N.Y.
The transferal rite and recitation
of the Rosary took place at Maria
Hall on Monday, January 17, a 9:15
a.m. followed by a Wake Service at
10:15 a.m. A concelebrated Mass
of Christian burial was celebrated
in the chapel of Maria Hall at 11:15
a.m. The celebrant and homilist
was the Rev. Richard Cirba, associate pastor of St. John the Evangelist Parish, Pittston, Pa. and chaplain of Group 7, Slovak Catholic
Sokol, who was a former student
of Sister Yolanda’s in Jessup, Pa.
Sister Yolanda, who encouraged
him to become a priest, requested
he be celebrant for her funeral liturgy. Concelebrants included the
Rev. Gerald Heintzelman and the
Rev. Albert Oldfield. Interment followed in the Sisters’ cemetery. May
the soul of Sister Yolanda, who so
beautifully mirrored our CyriloMethodian heritage of faith, now
rest in peace.
Mary Galla, 91 was
member in Erie, Pa.
Mary Galla passed away peacefully on Saturday, December 25 at
Golden Living Center, Walnut Creek
in Erie, Pa. She was 91.
A native of Erie, she was born there
January 23, 1919, daughter of the late
John and Pauline Wallach. She was
preceded in death by her husband,
Vincent Galla and her brothers John,
Joseph and Michael Wallach. She is
survived by two sons, Dr. Thomas
Galla and his wife, Mary Beth; and
Paul Gall and his wife, Lisa. She
is also survived by two grandsons,
Christopher Galla andhis wife, Holly
of Atlanta Ga., and Brian Galla of
Santa Monica, Ca.; a great-granddaughter, Elizabeth Ann Galla of
Atlanta; a brother-in-law, Raymond
Galla as well as many nieces and
nephews.
Mary was a longtime member of
Sokol, Assembly 64 in Erie. She was
a life-long member of Holy Family
Slovak parish and was active in many
parish societies. In the best traditions
of fraternal service, Mary volunteered
at the Second Harvest Food Bank. In
addition, she traveled extensively and
enjoyed Broadway plays and the philharmonic. She retired from GartnerHarf Meat Packing Company.
Family, friends and fellow fraternalists paid their final respects to
Sister Galla at the Brugger Funeral
Home. A Mass of Christian burial
was celebrated on December 28 at
Holy Family Church. Interment followed locally. May our Sister Sokolka, who faithfully served her family,
her church and her community, now
rest in peace.
Abbot Jerome M. Koval, O.S.B. Memorial
High School Grant
As per the decision of the delegates at the
26th National Convention held in New Haven,
CT in August, 1991, and amended at the 28th
National Convention held in Buffalo, NY in 1999,
the Slovak Catholic Sokol is pleased to offer
$500.00 grants to one young Sokol or Sokolka
in each of our organization's nineteen Groups.
These 19 Grants are available to any qualified
Sokol member currently attending a Catholic
High School.
Eligibility
A. Applicant must be a member of the Slovak
Catholic Sokol in good standing, holding a
permanent Life Insurance Certificate in the
amount of not less than $3,000, and has
been a member for at least five year.
Application is also available on the Internet @
B. One parent must be a S.C.S. member.
Application
ALONG WITH THE APPLICATION you
must submit a typed or written essay DOUBLE
SPACED in 100 to 200 words on the following
topic:
“WHAT DOES THE SLOVAK CATHOLIC
SOKOL MEAN TO ME?” This essay must be
submitted along with the application.
This application must be received on or
before, March 31, 2011 with a clear, small (2"x3"
wallet size) head and shoulders photograph.
Disqualification
An applicant who neglects to submit or complete any part of these requirements before
the established deadline will automatically be
disqualified.
Acknowledgment
An acknowledgment of the Grant should be
made in writing by the recipient as soon as possible, if you are awarded a Grant.
Return of Grant
If for any reason the Grant is not used by
the recipient, the entire (or portion of) grant not
utilized must be returned.
✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄
C. The principal of the Catholic High School
must verify the enrollment of the applicant.
(Detach here)
SLOVAK CATHOLIC SOKOL ABBOT JEROME M. KOVAL, O.S.B. MEMORIAL
HIGH SCHOOL GRANT APPLICATION
Group #_______________
Assembly/Wreath #_______________
Name____________________________________________________________________
Address___________________________________________________________________
City________________________ State________________ Zip Code________________
Date of Birth_________________________________________ Current Age __________
Home Phone (_____)________________ High School Phone (_____)________________
area code
area code
S.C.S. Insurance Certificate #______________
Face Amount_____________________
Face Amount_____________________
Face Amount_____________________
Father's name_____________________________________ Are you a member? ______
Mother's name_____________________________________ Are you a member? ______
Parent’s S.C.S. Insurance Certificate #_____________________ Face Amount___________
Parent’s S.C.S. Insurance Certificate #_____________________ Face Amount___________
Are you a previous Slovak Catholic Sokol Scholarship Recipient? _________ If yes, please
indicate Grade School or High School. What year?_________
(yes/no)
High School verification (to be completed by High School Principal)
I,______________________________ Principal of________________________________
(Principal's signature)
(Name of School)
Catholic High School, verify that__________________________________ is a student at
(Name of student)
the above school and will be attending _________ Grade in the 2011-2012 school year.
Are you currently participating in Slovak Catholic Sokol Activities? Yes_____
Deadline for receipt of this application is March 31, 2011.
Return completed application to:
Slovak Catholic Sokol High School Grant
205 Madison St., P.O. Box 899, Passaic, NJ 07055
No_____
PAGE 17
Single Premium Life Plan
Effective: January 1, 2009
Based on the 2001 C.S.O. Rates
An inexpensive way to provide your loved
ones tomorrow’s security TODAY!
SINGLE PREMIUM LIFE PLAN
Rates per $1,000
• The Single Premium certificate is fully paid in one lump sum and
remains in force for the life of the member without any further payments.
The member enjoys full membership privileges. The member receives, at no
cost, the bi-weekly official publication Slovak Catholic Falcon.
• This plan is issued from ages 0 to 80 and is subject to the same underwriting limits as our other plans of insurance.
• Anyone with an insurable interest may purchase this plan for another. It
makes an excellent gift from a grandparent or parent to a grandchild or child.
The plan may be purchased for anyone related by either blood or marriage.
• This plan is ideal for young people and is also useful for adults, who
prefer to have their life insurance premiums prepaid.
• Individuals covered by this plan may participate in all fraternal programs
of the Slovak Catholic Sokol, including the national bowling, basketball and
golf tournaments, as well as the national Slet.
• Cost comparison will reveal that our rates are very competitive and
very affordable.
• MINIMUM AMOUNT $5,000 ages 0 to 80. Dividends declared as earned.
• This plan is available in the following states in which we are licensed
including: Connecticut, New York, Illinois, Indiana, Massachusetts, New
Jersey, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Michigan and Wisconsin.
Issue
Age
For
$1,000
Cost For
$10,000
Issue
Age
For
$1,000
Cost for
$10,000
0
1
2
3
4
62.00
63.00
65.00
68.00
70.00
620.00
630.00
650.00
680.00
700.00
41
42
43
44
45
256.00
264.00
273.00
283.00
292.00
2,560.00
2,640.00
2,730.00
2,830.00
2,920.00
5
6
7
8
9
73.00
75.00
78.00
81.00
84.00
730.00
750.00
780.00
810.00
840.00
46
47
48
49
50
302.00
312.00
322.00
333.00
344.00
3,020.00
3.120.00
3,220.00
3,330.00
3,440.00
10
11
12
13
14
87.00
91.00
94.00
98.00
101.00
870.00
910.00
940.00
980.00
1,010.00
51
52
53
54
55
355.00
366.00
378.00
390.00
402.00
3,550.00
3,660.00
3,780.00
3,900.00
4,020.00
15
16
17
18
19
105.00
108.00
112.00
116.00
120.00
1,050.00
1,080.00
1,120.00
1,160.00
1,200.00
56
57
58
59
60
414.00
427.00
439.00
452.00
465.00
4,140.00
4,270.00
4,390.00
4,520.00
4,650.00
20
21
22
23
24
124.00
128.00
133.00
138.00
142.00
1,240.00
1,280.00
1,330.00
1,380.00
1,420.00
61
62
63
64
65
478.00
492.00
505.00
519.00
532.00
4,780.00
4,920.00
5,050.00
5,190.00
5,320.00
25
26
27
28
29
147.00
152.00
158.00
163.00
169.00
1,470.00
1,520.00
1,580.00
1,630.00
1,690.00
66
67
68
69
70
546.00
560.00
574.00
588.00
602.00
5,460.00
5,600.00
5,740.00
5,880.00
6,020.00
30
31
32
33
34
175.00
181.00
188.00
194.00
201.00
1,750.00
1,810.00
1,880.00
1,940.00
2,010.00
71
72
73
74
75
617.00
632.00
647.00
661.00
676.00
6,170.00
6,320.00
6,470.00
6,610.00
6,760.00
35
36
37
38
39
40
208.00
216.00
223.00
231.00
239.00
247.00
2,080.00
2,160.00
2,230.00
2,310.00
2,390.00
2,470.00
76
77
78
79
80
691.00
705.00
720.00
734.00
748.00
6,910.00
7,050.00
7,200.00
7,340.00
7,480.00
Your Best Fraternal Buy For
Every Member of the Family
Detach and Mail
Completed Form. . .
A certificate in the
is your best hedge
against inflation!
Please send me information on:
❑ Single Premium Life Plan
❑ 10 Year Payment Life Plan
❑ Annuities
❑ Application only
NAME ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
ADDRESS………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
CITY…………………………………………STATE…………………………ZIP
CODE…………………………………………
TELEPHONE (
) –………………–……………………
DATE OF BIRTH……………….........….........…
MAIL TO:
P. O. BOX 899
205 Madison Street
Passaic, N.J. 07055
PAGE 18
Another fraternal benefit
Slovak Catholic Sokol offers First Mortgage Loans
The SLOVAK CATHOLIC
SOKOL is a Fraternal Insurance
Society and, as such, its basic and
primary business is the issuance
of safe, low cost fraternal insurance coverage to its members and
the responsibility and safeguard
thereof, and to foster fraternalism
among its membership through its
local lodges and Groups by encouraging participation in our various
organizational local and national
programs.
The SLOVAK CATHOLIC SOKOL is NOT a mortgage lending
institution, although on occasion
when deemed practical our S.C.S.
Board of Directors, at its discretion,
may extend First Mortgage Loans
for the goodwill, promotion and/
or fraternal benefits which our organization would derive therefrom,
to eligible, qualified and responsible applicants who meet specific
requirements, i.e., to: (1) Active
S.C.S. Subsidiary Organizations,
to assist, encourage and promote
local involvement to benefit our
membership and organization as
a whole: and (2) Active S.C.S.
members in good standing, holding
reasonable amounts of S.C.S. Life
Insurance coverage, to purchase
personal residency homes.
It is understood that our Board of
Directors, acting on behalf of and
for the entire membership of the
SLOVAK CATHOLIC SOKOL,
cannot and will not issue mortgage
loans indiscriminately since any
such loans, in fact, are intended to
be safe, legal investments of our
entire membership’s monies.
No application for a First Mortgage Loan is to be submitted to the
for consideration and/or approval
by the Board of Directors when
there is a deadline for its issuance
as the established procedure entails
a certain amount of time. Our Board
of Directors is required to operate
discretionally and in accordance
with our established procedure in
ensuring safe investments of the
monies of our organization for the
benefit of our organization and its
entire membership.
The Board of Directors are held
on a quarterly scheduled basis. Understandably, the cost involved in
bringing the members of the Board
together for a meeting, increases
the cost of our operations. Meetings are scheduled to administer
to all the financial business of the
S.C.S.
After due and favorable consideration by the Board of Directors
of the applicants who have met
all the eligible requirements - and
providing monies allocated for the
purpose of extending S.C.S. First
Mortgage Loans are available at
the time - the files will be turned
over to our S.C.S. General Counsel
to handle the legal details for the
processing of the transaction with
the applicants’ attorney.
The SLOVAK CATHOLIC
SOKOL reserves the right to cancel the mortgage loan should the
mortgagors’ membership in the
SLOVAK CATHOLIC SOKOL,
ceases, except in the case of death.
In the event the SLOVAK
CATHOLIC SOKOL finds it necessary for any reason to cancel a
S.C.S. First Mortgage Loan, the
mortgagors would be required to
release, in favor of the SLOVAK
CATHOLIC SOKOL, any and
all claims or demands which the
S.C.S. Subsidiary Organization of
SCS members may have by reason
of such cancellation.
Please note: S.C.S. First Mortgage Loans to eligible, qualified
and responsible S.C.S. members
are applicable only for the purpose
of purchasing a home for personal family residency. Mortgage
Loan Application forms may be
obtained upon written request
addressed to Supreme Secretary,
Slovak Catholic Sokol, P.O. Box
899, 205 Madison St., Passaic,
NJ 07055.
Our Ever-Popular, 304-Page
Sokol Cook Book
is Now in its Fourth Edition
d
an
ten !
n
Le es
ur recip
o
ll y er
r a East
o
F
✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄
Just $13.50 which includes postage and handling
Sokol Assemblies and Wreaths can order a case of
12 cook books for just $150.00 – Place your order today!
Make check or money order payable to:
P.O. Box 899 – 205 Madison Street
Passaic, N.J. 07055
NAME______________________________________________________________________________
ADDRESS__________________________________________________________________________
CITY, STATE & ZIP___________________________________________________________________
NUMBER OF BOOKS____________________________________________________________________
Announcing the Memorial
Scholarship Fund!!!
Julie Ann Dobbs
Supreme First Vice-President
Have you found yourself looking for a way to memorialize a lost loved one or fellow Group/Wreath/Assembly member?
Why not make a donation in their honor to the newly developed
Memorial Scholarship fund? Your donation will assure that an
annual scholarship be given out to a college age student who
best exemplifies the meaning of fraternalism and volunteerism.
Here’s how it works:
Send a check or money order to the Memorial Scholarship
Fund clearly indicating the name to be memorialized. You can
find a donation form on line at
http://slovakcatholicsokol.org/members/memorialfrmframe.htm
or simply send your donation to:
James G. Jerek
Museum Treasurer
Memorial Scholarship Fund
205 Madison St.
Passaic, NJ 07055

Your bequest will be recognized in the Falcon as well
as permanently added to the Memorial Scholarship
Donation Log which will be kept at the Sokol Museum.
Depending on the amount of funds collected, we will
be able to award at least two $500 scholarships annually. The hope is that the donated funds will begin a
self-perpetuating interest bearing scholarship account.
Have you recently lost a loved one? You might consider
earmarking donations to this fund in their memory. Keep the
spirit of your fellow Sokol alive by investing in a way that their
fraternal dedication will not be forgotten.
Slovak Catholic Federation announces
the 100th anniversary of its founding
The Slovak Catholic Federation,
the representative body of American Catholics of Slovak ancestry, is
pleased to announce the 100th anniversary of its founding which will
be celebrated on Sunday, May 15,
2011 in Scranton, Pa. The festivity begins with a Pontifical concelebrated Liturgy of Thanksgiving at
2:30 p.m. in the Cathedral Church
of Saint Peter, the Mother Church
of the Diocese in which the Slovak
Catholic Federation was founded in
1911. The Most Reverend Joseph
C. Bambera, D.D., J.C.L., Bishop
of Scranton, will be the main celebrant, along with the Most Reverend Joseph V. Adamec, Apostolic
Administrator of the Diocese of
Altoona-Johnstown and Episcopal
Moderator of the Slovak Catholic
Federation. The Reverend Philip A.
Altavilla, V.E., National President
of the Slovak Catholic Federation
will serve as homilist. Priests of
Slovak ancestry from across the
country will concelebrate.
Following the liturgy, a Centen-
nial Banquet will be held at the
Clarion Hotel, located at 300 Meadow Avenue in Scranton, Pennsylvania. There will be a cash bar beginning at 4:30 p.m. with dinner to
follow at 5:30 p.m. The cost of the
banquet ticket is $35.00 per person.
Entertainment will be provided by
Pajtasi, a Slovak folk ensemble
from New York City. The deadline
for banquet reservations is April 15,
2011.
To commemorate this historic
event in the life of the American
Slovak Catholic community, a special commemorative book pamatnica will also be published. Patrons
for the commemorative book will
be appreciated. The deadline for patrons is April 1, 2011.
Fore more information on the
centennial event or to receive a
Patron form and/or a banquet reservations form, please call Dolores
M. Evanko, National SecretaryTreasurer of the Slovak Catholic
Federation at (570) 454-547 or visit
www.slovakcatholicfederation.org.
Keep Your Slovak Catholic Sokol
Home Office Numbers Handy
TOLL FREE NUMBER
– 1-800-886-7656
HOME OFFICE
– (973) 777-2605 or 777-2606
DIRECTOR OF SALES – 1-888-381-5431 or (412) 381-5431
UNDERWRITING
– (973) 777-4704
EDITOR
– (973) 777-4010
FAX NUMBER
– (973) 779-8245
E-MAIL
– [email protected]
WEB SITE
–www.slovakcatholicsokol.org
SLOVENSKÝ KATOLÍCKY SOKOL, 23. FEBRUÁRA 2011
spoločenské podujatia
Fašiangová zábava v New Yorku
V nedeľu 27. februára bude v osadnej hale Kostola sv. Jána
Nepomuckého, 411 East 66th Street v New Yorku fašiangová
zábava. Začiatok bude po slovenskej svätej omši o 12.30 hodine.
Vstupné je $25.00 za osobu. Vstupné pre deti od 6 do 16 rokov
je $10.00. V cene vstupenky je započítaný obed, káva a koláč. Do
tanca bude hrať hudobná skupina Kontakty.
Fašiangová zábava v Milwaukee,WI
20. zbor Slovenskej ligy v Amerike usporiada fašiangovú zábavu v sobotu 5. marca v Knights of Columbus Hall v
Greenfield, WI. Zábava bude od 6.00 do 11.00 hodiny večer.
V kultúrnom programe sa predstaví slovenský folklórny súbor
Tatra. Na predaj budú slovenské jedlá, zákusky a koláče. Bližšie
informácie: Bety Valent, tel. č. 414-425-6137 alebo Emily Kosso,
tel. č. 414-464-1063.
Fašiangová zábava v Johstown, PA
Spolok slovenského dedičstva v Laurel Highlands usporiada
fašiangovú zábavu v nedeľu 5. marca v Christ the Sacious Education
Center na 307 Garfield Street v Johnstown, PA. Vstupné je $25.00 za
dospelých, $24.00 pre členov spolku a pred deti vo veku od 6 do 12
rokov $15.00. V cene je započítaná večera.
V kultúrnom programe sa predstaví Johnstown Folk Dancers.
Bližšie informácie na telefónnom čísle 814-255-5517.
Slovenský deň vo Winter Park, FL
V nedeľu 6. marca sa bude konať v spoločenskej hale Slovenskej
záhrady vo Winter Park, FL 59. Slovenský deň. Začiatok bude o 10.00
hodine dopoludnia. Program začne slovenskou svätou omšou, ktorú
bude slúžiť Rev. Louis P. Luljak. Po omši bude obed. Podávané budú
slovenské jedlá.
Kultúrny program, v ktorom sa predstaví slovenský folklórny
súbor PAS z Pittsburghu, PA začne o 2.30 hodine. Počas popoludnia
bude hrať hudba do tanca i na počúvanie.
Vstupné je $25.00 za osobu. Rezervácie a bližšie informácie na
tel. č. 407-677-6894. Záujemcovia si môžu vstupenky objednať aj
poštou. Šeky vystavené na The Slovak Garden majú byť odoslané na
adresu: 3110 Howell Branch Road, Winter Park, FL 32792.
Oslava sv. Jozefa v New Yorku
182. zbor S.K.S. usporiada oslavu svojho patróna sv. Jozefa
v nedeľu 20. marca. O 11.00 hodine bude v kostole sv. Jána Nepomuckého slovenská svätá omša. Po omši bude v kostolnej hale na 406
East 67th Sreet nasledovať obed a fraternalistický program. Po obede
bude nasledovať ročná schôdza spolku.
Banket Spolku Sesterské mestá Kent-Dudince
Spolok Sesterské mestá Kent-Dudince usporiadajú banket spojený s kultúrnym programom v nedeľu 22. mája v Kent Elks Club Hall
na Elks Lane - State Route 59. Začiatok bude o 1.00 hodine. O 2.00
hodine bude obed a kultúrny program začne o 3.00 hod. Prestavia
sa folklórne skupiny Pittsburghskí Slováci, spevácky súbor Slovenské
mamičky a detský súbor Lučinka z Clevelandu, OH. Do tanca bude
hrať Johnny Pastirik Band.
Vstupné je $15.00 za osobu. Záujemcovia si majú urobiť
rezervácie do 6. mája. Šeky majú byť vystavené na Kent-Dudince Sister City Association a odoslané na adresu 1544 Vine St., Kent, OH
44240. Bližšie informácie: Rudy Bachna, tel. č. 330-763-3255.
ISSN: 0897-8107
Úradn¥ ™asopis
SLOVENSKÉHO KATOLÍCKEHO SOKOLA
Zalo¢en¥ 15. apríla 1911 – Vychádza ka¢dú druhú stredu
Majitel« a vydavatel«:
Daniel F. Tanzone, redaktor
Telefónne ™íslo: (973) 777-4010
V£etky ™lánky, príspevky a správy treba posielat« na adresu:
Editor, Slovak Catholic Sokol, P.O. Box 899
205 Madison Street, Passaic, New Jersey 07055
PAGE 19
Zahraniční Slováci by
mali dostávať dotácie
po novom
Zahraničných Slovákov čakajú zmeny v grantovom systéme.
Avizuje ich nový šéf Úradu pre
Slovákov žijúcich v zahraničí
Milan Vetrák. Zmeny plánuje zakotviť v novele zákona o
Slovákoch v zahraničí. “Filozoficky by sme mali k dotácii
pristupovať takým spôsobom,
že ide o kapitálovú investíciu v
prvom rade, a nie o nenávratnú
spotrebnú dotáciu, ako to často
bolo doteraz,” vyhlásil Vetrák.
Za nevyhnutné považuje
definovať očakávania úradu
od krajanov, keďže im pomáha
prostredníctvom grantov. “Keď
napríklad poskytneme dotáciu
vzdelávaciemu centru, musíme
si povedať, čo očakávame, že z
toho bude o päť rokov,” vyhlásil
Vetrák. Vymedziť chce nielen
záujmy úradu, ale aj očakávania
zahraničných Slovákov.
Nový dotačný systém by mal
mať podľa Vetráka jasnejšie
pravidlá i kritériá výberu. “Mal
by byť založený na tom, že
budú mať žiadatelia rovnakú
štartovaciu čiaru, že tam budú
existovať určité programy, ako to
poznáme z grantových systémov,
ktoré má Európska únia,” hovorí
Vetrák. Otvoriť chce možnosť
viacročného financovania.
Vetrák 17. februáara na tlačovej konferencii predstavil svoje
priority na päťročné funkčné obdobie. Myslí si, že život krajanov
treba v zahraničí revitalizovať,
nie ich asimilovať.
V pláne má tiež reorganizáciu
Úradu pre Slovákov žijúcich v
zahraničí ako aj aktívnejšiu spoluprácu so zahraničnými úradmi
krajín EÚ s obdobnou náplňou
činnosti. Pojem Slovák žijúci v
zahraničí by mal podľa Vetráka
nadobudnúť nový význam. V
súčasnosti je okrem iných kritérií viazaný aj na trvalý pobyt.
“Toto kritérium už nezodpovedá
aktuálnym potrebám, keďže sme
členmi EÚ,” odôvodňuje Vetrák.
Milan Vetrák sa stal novým
predsedom Úradu pre Slovákov
žijúcich v zahraničí 10. februára.
Jeho pôsobením nie je nadšené
Svetové združenie Slovákov v
zahraničí (SZSZ). To požiadalo
vládu, aby zmenila svoje rozhodnutie o jeho menovaní a
zopakovala výberové konanie na
kandidáta na tento post. V prípade, že sa tak nestane, Svetové
združenie Slovákov v zahraničí
si už podľa svojho predsedu
Vladimíra Skalského nevie
predstaviť ďalšiu spoluprácu s
Úradom pre Slovákov žijúcich v
zahraničí. SZSZ zastrešuje viac
než 100 slovenských spolkov v
24 krajinách. - SITA
Viete, že...
...podľa najnovšej štúdie obsahuje kakao viac antioxidantov ako rozličné druhy ovocia?
Štúdia Heshey Center for Helath
v Pennsylvanii odhalila, že najmä tmavá čokoláda obsahuje
viac antioxidantov, ako niektoré
druhy ovocia a ovocné šťavy.
Drevený kostolík v žilinskej mestskej časti Trnové na severozápade Slovenska sa rozpadáva a hrozilo mu zrútenie. Preto ho začali
rozoberať a postupne ho prevážajú do východné Slovensko, kde majú
s opravou drevených kostolov skúsenosti. Naspäť na cintorín do
Trnového by ho mali vrátiť v novembri tohto roku. Je predpoklad, že
kostol svätého Juraja bol postavený v roku 1615. Presná dokumentácia o histórii kostola neexistuje.
Slovenská armáda je v kríze, tvrdí NATO
(Pokračovanie zo str. 20)
sa potom zmenilo na 1,6 percenta. Tento záväzok takisto
nebol naplnený a klesol na 1,5
percenta. A teraz visia výdavky
na obranu niekde na jednom
percente, čo je veľmi málo,”
konštatoval riaditeľ obranného
plánovania NATO Frank Boland s tým, že v problémoch sa
rezort ocitol najmä po škrtoch
od roku 2007.
Tretí muž v hierarchii NATO
podľa Rudolfa zároveň ocenil,
že sa súčasné vedenie ministerstva pustilo do Strategického
hodnotenia obrany, ktoré by
malo ukázať, na akú armádu
Slovensko má a akú potrebuje.
“Situácia je kritická, ale sme
ochotní vám pomôcť,” uviedol ďalej Boland s tým, že po
návšteve Slovenska spíše hodnotiacu správu o plnení záväzkov Slovenska.
Správu nakoniec na jesennom summite NATO musia
schváliť všetky členské krajiny Aliancie. Podľa vyjadrení
Bolanda, správa o Slovensku
nebude lichotivá. “Súčasný
stav sme zdedili a snažíme sa
zachrániť, čo sa dá. Preto sme sa
pustili do komplexnej analýzy
rezortu. Už si nebudeme
zatvárať oči a tváriť sa, že je
všetko v poriadku, ako to robili doteraz nielen politici ale aj
niektorí generáli,” reagoval na
Bolandovu návštevu minister
obrany SR Ľubomír Galko.
Ako ďalej dodal aj keď zastaví
všetky nevýhodné obchody,
ktoré zostali po bývalých vedeniach rezortu, aj tak to nebude
stačiť. “Už pri schvaľovaní
rozpočtu na tento rok som
dal jasne najavo, že na obranu
je vyčlenených žalostne málo
peňazí vzhľadom na všetky úlohy, ktoré má zo zákona plniť,”
dodal Galko.
Komisia NATO vedené Bolandom ocenila snahu ozbrojených síl aj ministerstva riešiť
kritickú situáciu. “Opakujem
však, že potrebujete na obranu vyčleniť viac peňazí.
Jedno percento HDP je veľmi
málo,”uzavrel Boland. - SITA
Špeciálne sily USA a Slovenska
budú cvičiť spoločne
(Pokračovanie zo str. 20)
venovaná úlohám súvisiacim s
nasadením OS SR v operáciách,
s dôrazom na výstavbu špeciálnych síl.
Počas svojho pobytu na Slovensku generálmajor Repass
navštívil aj 5. pluk špeciálneho
určenia v Žiline, aby sa oboznámil so stavom výcviku jednotky špeciálnych síl, ktorá sa
v súlade s mandátom NR SR v
súčasnosti pripravuje na nasadenie.
Generálmajor Repass navštívil
vojakov priamo na cvičisku, aby
sa presvedčil o úrovni a spôsobe
prípravy našej jednotky a o materiálnom zázemí, ktoré má k
dispozícii.
Vo výcvikovom priestore Žilina - Hradisko generála Repassa
okrem samotného výcviku zaujala a príjemne prekvapila kvalita prezentovaných zbraní, podporných zbraní, zdravotníckej a
spojovacej techniky, ktoré pluk
používa.
Predstavitelia ozbrojených síl
USA a slovenských ozbrojených
síl sa v závere návštevy dohodli
na užšej koordinácii výcviku
a prípravy jednotiek, vrátane
spoločného výcviku a ďalších
podrobnostiach, týkajúcich sa
logistickej podpory a súčinnosti
počas spoločného pôsobenia v
operácii ISAF v Afganistane.
For God and Nation
Za Boha a Národ
Slovensk¥ Katolícky Sokol
ÚRADNÝ ČASOPIS SLOVENSKÉHO KATOLÍCKEHO SOKOLA - 28 000 ČLENOV - HLAVNÁ ÚRADOVŇA: 205 MADISON STREET, PASSAIC, NJ 07055 – www.slovakcatholicsokol.org
VOLUME C
PASSAIC, N.J., 23. FEBRUÁRA 2011
Stretnutie predsedov vlád krajín V4, Nemecka,
Rakúska a Ukrajiny v Bratislave
spolková kancelárka Angela
Merkelová, rakúsky spolkový
kancelár Werner Faymann a
predseda vlády Ukrajiny Mykola
Azarov. Kľúčovým témami rokovania v rámci rozšíreného
formátu V4 bola najmä energetická problematika, európska
susedská politika a Východné
partnerstvo, ako aj regionálna
spolupráca v oblasti krízového
manažmentu.
Názov zoskupenia V4 sa zrodil na schôdzke medzi prezidentom bývalej ČSFR Václavom
Na snímke zľava: predseda vlády Mad’arskej republiky Viktor Orbán, Havlom, predsedom maďarskej
spolková kancelárka Spolkovej republiky Nemecko Angela Markelová, vlády Józsefom Antallom a
predsedníčka vlády SR Iveta Radičová, predseda vlády Českej republiky poľským prezidentom Lechom
Wałęsom 15. februára 1991 v
Petr Nečas a predseda vlády Poľska Donald Tusk. - Foto SITA
severomaďarskom Vyšehrade.
V rámci ročného predsedníc- krajín V4 v rôznych oblastiach a Traja predstavitelia tam podpísatva Slovenska vo V4 sa Bratislava otázkach súvisiacich s členstvom li spoločnú deklaráciu o úzkej
v utorok 15. februára 2011 stala v EÚ. Išlo predovšetkým o prob- spolupráci svojich troch (dnes
dejiskom stretnutia predse- lematiku európskej energetickej štyroch) krajín na ceste k európdov vlád krajín V4, Nemecka, bezpečnosti, hospodárske ria- skej integrácii. Po páde komuRakúska a Ukrajiny. Summit sa denie EÚ, prípravu budúceho nistických režimov zohrala vzákonal v deň 20. výročia vzniku viacročného finančného rámca jomná spolupráca týchto krajín
tohto regionálneho združenia EÚ, problémy v eurozóne či významnú úlohu pri prechode
stredoeurópskych štátov.
dlhovú krízu. Premiéri prijali od totalitného režimu k slobodPredsedovia vlád Sloven- spoločnú deklaráciu v súvislosti nej, pluralistickej a demokraska, Česka, Maďarska a Poľska s 20. výročím V4 a úlohami toh- tickej spoločnosti.
– Iveta Radičová, Petr Nečas, to zoskupenia do budúcnosti.
Slovensko predsedá skuViktor Orbán, Donald Tusk –
Na základe pozvania pred- pine V4 od 1. júla 2010 do 30.
spoločne rokovali o ročnom sedníčky vlády SR Ivety Ra- júna 2011. Ostatné stretnutie
programe predsedníctva SR vo dičovej sa na druhej časti ro- predsedov vlád krajín V4 sa
Vyšehradskej štvorke, spolupráci kovania zúčastnili aj nemecká uskutočnilo v Budapešti minulý
rok v júli. - SITA
Špeciálne sily USA a Slovenska
budú cvičiť spoločne
Predstavitelia ozbrojených síl
USA a slovenských ozbrojených
síl sa dohodli na užšej koordinácii výcviku a prípravy jednotiek. Na výcvik príslušníkov
žilinského pluku špeciálneho
určenia, ktorí sa pripravujú na
nasadenie do Afganistanu, sa
v uplynulých dňoch prišiel osobne pozrieť veliteľ Veliteľstva
špeciálnych síl USA v Európe
generálmajor Michael Repass.
Návšteva, ktorá sa uskutočnila
na pozvanie náčelníka Štábu
pre operácie Generálneho štábu
(GŠ) Ozbrojených síl (OS) SR
brigádneho generála Pavla
Macka, mala za cieľ dohodnúť
sa na užšej koordinácii výcviku a prípravy s americkými
špeciálnymi silami, vrátane spoločného výcviku.
Plnenie úloh špeciálnych síl
a výcvik afganských bezpečnostných síl bude hlavným poslaním jednotky špeciálnych
síl USA, v ktorej zostave bude
aj 20 príslušníkov 5. pluku špeciálneho určenia zo Žiliny.
Počas stretnutia generálmajora Repassa so zástupcami OS
SR boli prerokované geografické
oblasti možného pôsobenia tejto
jednotky a ďalšie podrobnosti,
týkajúce sa logistickej podpory
a súčinnosti počas pôsobenia v
operácii.
Slovenská strana v úvodnej
časti rokovania oboznámila generálmajora Repassa o aktuálnom
stave OS SR, spôsobe výcviku
a transformačných úlohách
a výzvach, ktoré ich čakajú v
najbližšom období.
Ďalšia časť rokovania bola
(Pokračovanie na str. 19)
Slovenská armáda je
v kríze, tvrdí NATO
Slovensko má problémy
splniť záväzky voči NATO
a Ozbrojené sily SR zaostávajú s modernizáciou pre
podvyživené rozpočty od
roku 2007, konštatoval vysoký
predstaviteľ NATO Frank Boland. Ten je tretím mužom v
hierarchii
Severoatlantickej
aliancie a tento týždeň bol na
návšteve Slovenska.
Ako agentúru SITA informoval hovorca ministerstva
obrany Ivan Rudolf, Boland
zároveň vyzval nielen vojenských ale najmä politických
predstaviteľov krajiny, aby
konali.
“Potrebujete viac peňazí. Keď
vás Aliancia prijala v roku 2004,
tak ste súhlasili, s vyčlenením
2 percent HDP na obranu. To
(Pokračovanie na str. 19)
ČÍSLO 4932
Správy zo Slovenska
Železničná spoločnosť Cargo
Slovakia, a.s. plánuje k aprílu
uvoľniť do 400 z 1 500 administratívnych zamestnancov. Štátny
nákladný prepravca zápasí s
veľkým dlhom. Do konca júna
plánujú prepustiť okolo 700
zamestnancov a d’alších 200 má
odísť v októbri.
Spoločnosť Volkswagen Slovakia plánuje na Slovensku v
najbližších piatich rokoch preinvestovať jednu miliardu eur.
Prostriedky budú smerovať do
výroby automobilov v Bratislave
a výrobu komponentov v Martine.
Silný vietor v Tatrách 12.
februára opäť lámal stromy,
poškodil strechy a a niektorých
miestach bola pre popadané
stromy zastavená doprava. Nárazový vietor na niektorých miestach dosahoval silu mohutnej
víchrice s rýchlosťou 140 kilometrov za hodinu.
Novým predsedom Úradu pre
Slovákov žijúcich v zahraničí sa
stal Milan Vetrák. Do tejto funkcie ho 10. februára na päť rokov
vymenovala vláda. Doterajšej
predsedníčke USŽZ Vilme Prívarovej vypršalo funkčné obdobie. Tento post zastávala od
januára 2006.
V prešovskej nemocnici sa
10. februára narodili trojičky.
Traja chlapci - Michal, Samuel
a Damián sú v dobrom zdravotnom stave, dočasne boli v
inkubátore.
Slovenská ekonomika sa šplhá
k historickým rekordom. Ministerstvo financií Slovenskej republiky odhaduje, že výkonnosť
prekoná úroveň z predkrízového
boomu už v prvom štvrťroku
tohto roku. Hospodárstvu pomohol najmä exportne nastavený priemysel. Zaostáva
však spotreba domácností, s
ktoru bude problém aj nad’alej,
ked’že zamestnanosť sa podľa
analytikov z krízy nevystrábi ešte
niekoľko rokov.
Nemecký telekomunikačný
gigant Deutche Telekom postaví
v Bratislave centrum finančných
služieb. V administratíve zamestná asi 500 ľudí. Spoločnosť sa
rozhodovala medzi Slovenskom
a Mad’arskom.
Irak požiadal NATO o pomoc pri výcviku pyrotehcnikov.
Pyrotechnikov v celej aliancii
zastrešuje Slovensko so svojím
špecializovaným pracoviskom v
Trenčíne. Irak vlastní 26 kusov
odmínovacích zariadení vyrobených na Slovensku.
Poľadovica na západnom Slovensku, ktorá od 16. februára
trvala tri dni, narobila starosti
hlavne zdravotníkom a policajtom. Počet ošetrených v nemocniciach na Kramároch, na
Antolskej ulici a v Ružinove v
Bratislave, ktorí sa pošmykli na
zľadovatených chodníkoch, presiahol 200 prípadov. Išlo najmä o
klasické zranenia spôsobené pádmi, ako sú poranenia hlavy, rúk,
členkov, ale objavili sa už aj zlomeniny končatín a otrasy mozgu.
Nemocnice boli natoľko
preťažené, že zdravotníci boli
nútení v niektorých prípadoch
pre nedostatok miesta presunúť
zranených z chirurgie na iné
oddelenia. Na cestách došlo asi
k 50 nehodám, ktoré si vyžiadali
dva životy, troch ťažko a 19 ľahko
zranených.
Turecká rodina žijúca v
Nemecku plánuje na Orave
otvoriť výrobňu syrov. Mliečne
výrobky budú vyvážať hlavne
do Nemecka a Rakúska, kde žije
početná komunita tureckých
vysťahovalcov.
Automobilka Kia Motors Slovakia bude zvyšovať mzdy. Ako
informovala spoločnosť, základné mzdy jej zamestnancov sa od
februára 2011 v priemere zvýšia
o 4,25 %. Spoločnosť garantuje
zvýšenie miezd všetkých pozícií
minimálne na úrovni o 3 %,
pričom platy operátorov pracujúcich na výrobe automobilov a
motorov stúpnu viac.
Nová kolektívna zmluva spoločnosti je platná na obdobie
štyroch rokov a zahŕňa zvýšenie
tvorby sociálneho fondu, zavedenie nových príspevkov na
dovolenky zamestnancov a ich
rodinných príslušníkov, ako
aj príspevky na detské tábory.
Priemerná mzda zamestnancov
Kia Motors Slovakia na operátorských pozíciách, ktorí odpracovali celý rok 2010, dosiahla
úroveň 1 040 eur.