nests/districts - Polish Falcons of America

Transcription

The official publication of the Polish Falcons of America since 1896
Polish Falcon
December 2015, No.5
President’s Message
SOKÓŁ POLSKI
Managing Editor
Courtney Caughey-Stambul
Graphic Designers
Holland Brown
Andy Darragh
Published by the Polish Falcons of America
(Published Feb., April, June, Sept, Dec.)
Polish Falcons of America National Headquarters
381 Mansfield Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15220-2751
Phone: 412-922-2244
Email: info@polishfalcons.org
Fax: 412-922-5029 - http://polishfalcons.org
Sent to all premium paying Members without charge.
"My wife, Patti, and I would like to wish
you and yours a Merry Christmas and
a Happy New Year."
-Timothy L. Kuzma, President & CEO
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
President & CEO
Timothy L. Kuzma
First Vice President/Membership Service
Patricia B. Del Busse
Second Vice President/Fraternal Director
Daniel Michalak
Secretary/Treasurer & CFO
John Kuzmirek
NATIONAL DIRECTORS
District I - Edward Ciesla District II - Thomas Eckert District IV - Nancy Marcuson-Capozoli
District V - John Kowarik District VI - Christine Belasco
District VII - Thomas Washington Jr.
District IX - Mary Rand District XIII - Janet Knauber
APPOINTED OFFICIALS
Communications Director
Courtney Caughey-Stambul
Physical Education Director
Christine Puskar
Polish Cultural Commissioner
Lawrence Kozlowski
Legal Counsel
Richard J. Federowicz
NATIONAL SALES
National Sales/Marketing Director
John Denning
POSTMASTER
Send address changes to: Polish Falcons of America,
381 Mansfield Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15220-2751.
Periodicals Postage Paid In Pittsburgh, PA
USP 500-640
MOVING?
Please complete the change of address form online at
http://polishfalcons.org/change_address.
SUBMISSIONS
Articles on Nest and District activities including photos
may be submitted for consideration through our
website at http://polishfalcons.org/sokol_submissions.
Email photos to ccaughey@polishfalcons.org or
mail to PFA Headquarters. Poor quality or damaged
photographs will not be considered for publication.
We are not responsible for typographical errors in
transcribing material that is hand-written. All submitted
materials become the property of the Polish Falcons
of America and may be used to promote the mission
of the PFA. Materials will not be returned unless
requested.
Wesołych Świąt
National Headquarters will be closed in observance of the
holiday beginning Thursday, December 24, and will reopen on
Monday, December 28. We will also be closed on New Year's
Day, January 1. Thank you for your cooperation.
02
© COPYRIGHT 2015 Polish Falcons of America.
All rights reserved. No part of this publication can be
reproduced in any form without written permission.
Printed in USA. Please Recycle. Printed by Knepper
Press, Clinton, PA - www.knepperpress.com.
The submission deadline for the February issue
is Monday, Dec. 28, 2015.
SOKÓŁPOLSKI • DECEMBER ‘15
16
Table of
Contents
Nest s/Distr ic t s
05
Programs
10
Membership
12, 30
18
Cultural
26
Faith
35
20
21
22
23
03
From the Editor
The Christmas season is upon us!
It’s amazing how quickly the year flies by. As
a child, it seemed as though Christmas would
never come. And now as an adult, there
seems never enough time to do the things
that need to be done-- buying the presents,
picking up the last few items on the grocery
list, hanging the Christmas lights, and the
list goes on. What was once a magical time
of anticipation can easily become a time of
hurry and to-do lists. But, we must remember
the reason for the season.
For unto you is born this day in the city of
David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.
Luke 2:11
Enjoy celebrations with family and friends.
Don’t get caught up in the to-do’s; people
are more important than preparations
or presents. I wish you all a very Merry
Christmas and a Happy New Year!
With that, I am pleased to present this
Christmas issue of the Sokol Polski to you.
You will notice that we have reprinted the
Gorecki Scholarship Recipients page, which
appeared in our September issue. We would
like to apologize to Kaitlyn Johns for an error
that resulted in the misspelling of her
last name.
Also, I would like to send my condolences
to the family and friends of Rev. Canon
Joseph L. Sredzinski. My time working with
Father Joe was a pleasure. He will be greatly
missed. Please see pages 16 and 17 for a
feature in his honor.
Czolem!
Courtney Caughey -Stambul
Simply Rewards
Simply Rewards provides Members in
Good Standing with great discounts at local
restaurants and stores, as well as national
retailers. And best of all, when you make
a purchase through Simply Rewards, a
donation is made to a charity of your choice,
plus to our organization, Polish Falcons of
America! Email info@polishfalcons.org for
more information.
A Special Thank You to
PFA from Kaitlyn Johns
Polish Falcons of America Scholarship Committee,
I wanted to take a moment to express my extreme
gratitude for choosing me as a recipient of this year’s
Gorecki Scholarship. The Polish Falcons of America has
given me countless opportunities and experiences, and
this award is no exception. This scholarship will allow me
to finish my schooling, and study in Würzburg, Germany
this summer. I cannot thank the scholarship committee,
the Polish Falcons of America, and all its Members enough
for everything the organization has done for me and has
allowed me to do over the years. The Polish Falcons of
America has ultimately shaped me into the person I am
today, and for that I am both proud and grateful.
Sincerely,
Kaitlyn Johns
Nest 86 Hamtramck, Michigan
NESTS/DISTRICTS
District V Wounded Warriors Fundraiser
District V held three dinners to benefit the Wounded
Warriors Foundation. The dinners took place at various
Nests, with a final large dinner on October 25 in
Middletown, Conn.
Over $5,000 was raised for the Wounded Warriors
Foundation. The money will be sent to Florida and earmarked for Wounded Warriors of New England. The
Wounded Warriors Foundation is stationed in Florida,
offering a place where war veterans can go to heal.
Congratulations to all of the Nests and Members
involved. Thanks for stepping up to the plate for our
veterans.
Nest 31 holds annual awards banquet
Members of Nest 31 Detroit, Mich.
gathered on September 27 to celebrate
the Nest's 123rd anniversary and
distribute awards at Jovan’s Restaurant
in Sterling Heights. After a few
minutes of Falcon conversation and
introductions, the festivities began with
the presentation of awards by President
Frank Wloch.
Fifty-year Membership pins were
awarded to Kasia Borkowski, Grace
Anne Campbell, Marcia Bartos and
Joanne Zukowski. Three of these
Members were in the Nest's gym class
a few years back and competed in a
number of District and National Zlots,
as well as other Nest, District and
National events! Following the 50-year
pins, the bronze Star of Merit was
awarded to Bryan Sharp. He has attended District and National
Zlots, National Youth Camp, Future Leaders Conferences, and
traveled with the Falcons to Poland.
Nest 31 President, Frank Wloch was joined by Bernard Wolny,
Grandmaster of the Legion of Honor, for the presentation of the
Silver Legion of Honor to Barbara Wloch and Cynthia Zembrzuski
for their years of service and participation on the Nest, District
and the National levels. They both have held numerous Nest
and District positions, participated in the Make a Difference and
Helping Hands National Volunteer Days, attended the District
Easter and Christmas dinners, as well as District and National
Conventions.
Following the awards ceremony, President Frank Wloch
offered a prayer for the delicious meal that was prepared.
Thank you to all of the Nest Members that attended this event
and a special thank you to Bernie and Kathy Wolny and Al
and Janet Knauber for attending our annual event. It is much
appreciated.
05
NESTS/DISTRICTS
Former Nest 725 Officer
is recognized
Marian Hansen of Nest 725 Milwaukee, Wis., former District II
Instructress and past National Polish Folk Director, was recognized
by the Polish Folk Dance Association of the Americas for her efforts
as one of the founders of the group's Gala Concert and Parade at
Milwaukee's Polish Fest. The Polish Folk Dance Association of the
Americas was started over 30 years ago with the help of Marian
Hansen. Hansen helped start the group in honor of the the Polish
Falcons. District II has been a member of the group since the
association's first days.
District VI
holds Biennial Convention
District VI held its 60th Biennial Convention on August 29 at the M.R.
Falcons Club. The convention was hosted by Nest 4 South Bend, Ind.
Pre-Convention Chairman, Ian Delater, President of Nest 4, greeted those
present and welcomed them to South Bend. Delegates from Nests 4, 80,
276 and 564 were present. Representing National Headquarters was
National President and CEO, Timothy Kuzma, who conveyed greetings
from the staff at Headquarters. His remarks included updates on various
projects and programs going on now, and those to come in the future. He
also gave an update on plans for the National Convention, which will also
be held in South Bend.
Following the business of the convention, the election of Officers for the
next two years commenced. The Officers are: President- Mary T. Pluta,
Vice President- Mark Ablin, Treasurer- Caroline Runnion, Recording
Secretary- Nancy Chiszar and Physical Instructress- Natalie Cencelewski.
The Nest Directors are: Nest 4- Angie Pluta, Nest 80- Eleanor Pianowski,
Nest 276- Christine Belasco and Nest 564- Mark Albin. President Kuzma
administered the Oath of Office to those elected. Following the close of the
convention, a dinner was served.
06
Nest 42
Scholarship
Recipients
Nest 42 Chicago, Ill. and Auxiliary
is proud to award three $500
scholarships to the following
Members: Matthew Dutczak (left),
Joshua Gasik (center) and Glenn
Kozlowski, (right). Congratulations!
-Emily Repking, Nest 42
Nest 6 Hospice
Golf Tournament
In 1997, Druhna Marian Wesolowski and other Members of
Nest 6 Buffalo, N.Y. decided to organize a golf tournament
to benefit Hospice Buffalo. Eighteen years later, this annual
tournament still draws over 100 golfers, and after 18 successful
tournaments, over $48,000 has been donated to Hospice.
Many members of Nest 6 and their relatives have been cared
for by Hospice Buffalo, making the months of planning and
work prior to the tournament no burden. The Nest 6 Golf
Committee, in addition to the many Nest 6 Members who
participate each year, is supported by many local businesses,
including the Buffalo Bills and the Buffalo Sabres, who
generously donate an item to raffle. This year, Hospice Buffalo
acknowledged the Nest's efforts by presenting the Golf
Committee with an engraved brick to be placed on one of the
walking paths on the Hospice Campus. The Golf Committee
also received a Hospice plaque to be displayed at the Nest.
Above, presenting a check with this year's proceeds to David
Yacono, Hospice Special Events Associate, is Ray StoklosaGolf Committee Member, Marian Wesolowski- Honorary Golf
Committee Chairperson, Gary Sieczkarek- Nest 6 President
and Jim Gawron- Golf Committee Chairman.
-Lori Stoklosa, Nest 6
Nest 80 Member
earns a promotion
1st Source Bank announces the promotion
of Lorra Junk to Officer. Lorra is an
Accounting and Systems Manager in the
1st Source Trust Operations Department.
Lorra graduated from Purdue University
with a B.S. in Accounting. She has served
as Treasurer of the Board of Directors of
the Polish Falcons of America AKA Z.B.
Falcons Nest 80 South Bend, Ind. for
over 10 years.
NESTS/DISTRICTS
Member travels to Poland
Luke Hedrich, a Member of Nest 336 Jackson,
Mich., was selected to participate in the 2015
Polish American Congress Charitable Foundation
(PACCF) Youth Educational Exchange Program
Trip to Poland. Luke flew out of Chicago O’Hare
Airport on July 5 and returned on July 17. During
his time in Poland, he visited the towns of
Warsaw, Torun, Czestochowa and Krakow. He
also took Polish language lessons for an hour
each day while there.
"I had a lot of fun on my trip to Poland and there
were some parts that stood out to me. First, my
favorite place was the Kraków Market Square.
There were so many different shops and many
interesting historical landmarks. It was a happy
and lively place. Next, another very interesting
place was the Wieliczka Salt Mine. It had a lot of
amazing sculptures made out of salt. One of my
favorites was the Last Supper made out of salt.
Lastly, another great part of the trip was going
on the raft cruise along the Dunajec River. This
ride gave us magnificent sites of the Pieniny
Mountains and plant life there. I got some very
cool pictures of the river and mountains. This trip
was a great experience and if I get the chance to
go again in the future, I would go for sure."
Dziękuję,
Luke Hedrich
08
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New Year’s Eve Ball
Bal
Sylwestrowy
Czwartek, 31 grudnia 2015
od godz. 8:00 p.m. do 2:00 a.m.
POLANKA SOKOŁÓW
140 Falcon Road, Hillsborough, NJ
do taŃca gra:
DJ Paweł
Godzina Koktajlowa
Napoje Alkoholowe Całą Noc (Open Bar)
Gorąca Kolacja - Przekąski
Deser - Kawa - Szampan o północy
Kapelusze - Grzechotki - Niespodzianki
BILETY: $100 od osoby
Rezerwacje:
(908) 565-4884 • (908) 722-3562
BILETY DO NABYCIA
B&L Market, 221 N. 10th Ave., Manville
Lampol Travel, 312 S. Main St., Manville
European Deli, 262 S. Main St., Manville
09
PROGRAMS
Christine Puskar,
National Physical Education Director
2016 Calendar of Events
Let’s Walk Program
Walking is one of the most popular and easiest forms of exercise. The only equipment you really need is a good pair of walking
shoes, and maybe an iPod and headphones. The PFA Walking Program is easy too, and is open to all age groups. To participate,
go to polishfalcons.org/athletics_adult and print off an Individual Record Sheet. Record your miles for the entire year. In January
2016, return your completed sheet to your Nest Vice President who will then forward it to National Headquarters. Your mileage will be
recorded and your prize will be awarded. It’s as simple as that! The deadline for 2015 mileage is Feb. 1, 2016.
5th Annual Future Leaders Conference
It is hard to believe, but the 5th Annual Future Leaders Conference is coming up! It will take place on Feb. 19 – 21, 2016 and be
held once again in Pittsburgh, Pa. The Homewood Suites took great care of us last year, so we are returning in 2016. Our group of
25 Youth Members, ages 13 to 20, will be gathering to share their ideas for the future of our organization, and the success of the
program can be seen in recent numbers. First of all, we have had 45 Youth Members who have participated in at least one Future
Leaders Conference. Of those 45, we have had 21 who have been awarded a Starzynski Scholarship. Three have been awarded a
Gorecki Scholarship. We now have five Future Leaders who are Nest Officers and four who are District Officers. We also have 10
Bronze Star of Merit recipients. These young people have taken what they have learned and experienced at the conference, and are
using it in their Nests and Districts. Congratulations to all of them!
Adult/Youth Volleyball Tournament
A new idea in 2016, we will be having the Adult and Youth Volleyball Tournament on the same weekend at the same facility. Because
the Youth Volleyball Tournament is a very successful event and the Adult Tournament has faltered a bit the last two years, my hope is
that combining them will help to increase participation and rejuvenate the Adult Tournament. The event will take place in Pittsburgh,
Pa. the weekend of April 1 - 3, 2015 at the same gym as last year, Pittsburgh Elite Volleyball Center. There are plenty of courts for the
Youth and Adults to play at the same time. As soon as I have finalized plans with a hotel and banquet facility, I will get the information
out to everyone. As always, you do not have to bring an entire team to participate. I will assign you to a team for competition. For the
youth, anyone in PFA is eligible to attend as long as he/she has a chaperone. No one will be permitted to come without an adult (21
or older) chaperone. There will be a fee this year of $25 per Athlete, Instructor, and Chaperone. As with last year, Youth Members are
only responsible for getting to the tournament. National Headquarters will cover the hotel rooms, and the rest of the costs associated
with the tournament. Deadline for entry is March 23, 2016.
As I stated, for the Adult Volleyball Tournament, you do not have to bring a whole team. I will assign you to a team. The cost for
the Adult Tournament is $50 per athlete. Adults will book their own hotel rooms, as is always the case. The fee per guest is $36
and covers Friday dinner, Saturday lunch, and the banquet dinner. The deadline is also March 23, 2016. Entry forms and all other
information will be posted at polishfalcons.org as well as social media. All information will also be forwarded to Nest Instructors and
Nest Presidents.
National Camp
The dates of our 2016 National Youth Camp at St. Vincent DePaul will be June 26 - July 3. We cannot have our usual week of July
the Fourth, as this is a National Convention year, and the Convention will be taking place in July. More information will be
available soon.
Holiday Season
Lastly, I would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone in our Polish Falcons family a blessed and joyful holiday season. I hope
that you are all able to slow down and relax and spend time enjoying the company of family and friends. Merry Christmas and Happy
New Year to everyone!
10
2015 National Golf Tournament
Nest 45 St Louis, Mo. hosted the 47th National Golf Tournament on August 13-14, 2015. Nineteen Nests and 59 golfers participated
(48 Members and 11 Non-Members) in the two day tournament at Eagle Springs Golf Course and Golf Club of Florissant.
The activities began with registration on Wednesday, August 12. Each golfer was given a goodie bag along with a golf shirt and
information about the tournament activities. The Golf Commissioners Meeting was held at 6 p.m. in the Nest's Hall. Nest 45 treated
the golfers to a happy hour. Carol Yanick and Rosemary Marx took care of setting up the food, along with other Members from the
Nest. DJ, Jeff Beilfuss of Nest 907 Cicero, Ill., played both evenings. He did a great job and everyone had a wonderful time.
Thursday began with everyone gathering at Eagles Springs Golf Course for a 9 a.m. tee-off time. There was a shot-gun start. Lunch
was served at the turn and dinner was at 6:30 p.m. at Nest 45. Friday was a repeat performance. The St. Louis weather could not
have been nicer for golfing.
The awards banquet began after dinner on Friday. While giving out the trophies it was discovered that I had goofed - I only had half
of the trophies that we needed. So, the names of the various winners were announced and the trophies we had were given out.
We mailed the rest of the winners their trophies the following week. My apologies to the winners who did not get their trophy at the
banquet. I also owe an apology to Dennis "Jocko" Zaski for not even announcing him as a winner of the Sr. Men Gross Division. I
hope all is forgiven.
A big "thank you" to all the golfers for their generosity as we collected a total of $500 for our charity which was Guide Dogs of
America. A check was presented to the officers on Saturday, October 3 in the amount of $1,000 (matching funds from National) by
Pat Heineman and Ken Abramczyk, District II Golf Commissioners, along with other Members of Nest 45 and Non-Members that
participated in both tournaments.
In closing, I will just say "thank you" to my committee (Pat Heineman, Chairperson, Loretta Aemisegger, Bill Heineman, Ken
Abramczyk, Sandy Czerniewski, Carol Yanick, Rosemary Marx, Jason Daniels, Matt Zytniak) and the workers from Nest 45.
Hope to see you all in New Castle!
View the 2015 Results online at:
polishfalcons.org/national_golf
Pat Heineman, Chairperson 2015
11
MEMBERSHIP
Wrapping Up 2015
Trish Del Busse,
National First Vice President
Here it is, another end of the year! It's gone by way too
fast! There will be a mailing of End of Year Forms coming in
the near future. Please note that it will NOT contain a Nest
Officers Form because this is NOT the year for elections.
Elections take place in the even numbered years. If National
collects your dues, please return the rosters as quickly as is
possible. Thank you to those Nests who are compliant with
all that is requested of them. I do understand that not all
Members feel the need to pay the National Dues. However, if
one is serving as a Nest Officer, dues must be current or the
Nest will not be considered to be in “Good Standing.” One
cannot receive an award unless his/her dues are paid at least
one year in advance.
The request for Liquor Liability Insurance has a few Members
confused. Please read the questions and answers that we
supplied, and it will help you understand the need for the
coverage. The Scholarship Committees met last month at the
quarterly Board of Directors Meeting. The applications for all
three programs-Starzynski, Gorecki and Nest 92 are available
on our website. If you have any questions regarding these
programs or would like to make a donation, please contact me
directly.
Nest 610 Erie, Pa. had their annual awards dinner in early
October. Once again, I had the privilege of representing
National Headquarters and aiding in the awards ceremony.
As I say every year that I am there (and there have been
quite a few!), it amazes me the number of folks who attend to
simply socialize and honor those who are receiving awards.
Congratulations to the award recipients. Great job!
The following week was quite a week! My dear friend,
Charlotte Bartus, passed away. Druhna was my Vice
President when I was President of Nest 118. But more
importantly, she was my friend and a great supporter.
Charlotte was always there to encourage me, smile, and
provide help when I needed it. My deepest sympathy to John,
Cheryl and all the Bartus children and grandchildren. Charlotte
was a very special lady; she will be missed by so many.
The Welcome Gala introducing the Polish Falcons Heritage
Foundation (PFHF) was held at the Priory on the northside of
Pittsburgh on October 16. This event was held to invite folks
to hear about our new foundation. This is a very exciting time
for the Falcons. In early December, the PFHF will sponsor a
Traditional Wigilia Dinner at Westwood Country Club. Druh
Larry has a wonderful program planned.
The day after Druhna Charlotte’s funeral, there was a meeting
in downtown Pittsburgh of the PA Fraternal Alliance. I attended
all of the business sessions and was installed as the President
for the upcoming year. It was time for me to take my turn!
When I first attended these conferences, the purpose of the
meeting was so lost on me. Now I understand the need for
12
John and I at the Polish Falcons Heritage
Foundation Inauguration Gala
the umbrella groups and the need for all of us to “take our turn.”
I also discovered that I am the first Polish Falcon to hold this
position, and I am truly honored. President Kuzma attended the
meeting as well and issued the Oath of Office to the incoming
Officers. Druh Kuzma did a very nice job, and I thank him for
his support. I was trying to get him to serve as Vice President,
but he wouldn’t go for it! Bright and early Monday morning,
John and I had to leave the meeting a bit early to attend the
funeral of our National Chaplain, Father Joe. He had been our
Chaplain for over 30 years and will be missed by many of
our Members.
The first weekend of November was a very busy one. Bright
and early on a Saturday morning, I flew to Connecticut to attend
the Nest 208 Derby, Conn. 105th Anniversary Celebration
as well as awards presentation. It was nice to be back in
Connecticut; it has been a while! The evening was a very
pleasant one with good food, great people and interesting trivia.
Congratulations to the award recipients! The next morning
at 5:30 a.m., I boarded a plane to arrive back in the 'burg in
time to attend the annual PolishFest. John and I worked at
the table selling raffle tickets and passing out information
about the PFHF. We were right next to the table for the PFA
where Druhna Puskar and Brian Fuller did the same thing.
President Tim as well as Evie and Sandra (office staff) helped
with distributing information and brochures. There was quite
a crowd and all in attendance seemed to have a great time!
Congratulations to Druh Larry on another successful event!
At this very special time of year, John (my beau), our sons,
daughters-in-law, grandchildren, great granddaughter and
I wish you and yours a very Merry Christmas and a Happy,
Healthy New Year.
My little pirate
My little Falcon
PFA Scholarships
Your Future begins
here!
Applications are available for all of the 2016 scholarship programs: Starzynski, Gorecki and Nest 92 now.
Visit polishfalcons.org/scholarship to download an application. Please contact Druhna Trish with any questions at 800-535-2071
or vptrish@polishfalcons.org.
Congratulations to the
Richard C. Gorecki Scholarship Recipientss
The Richard C. Gorecki Scholarship program was introduced in 1999. Druh Gorecki was an outstanding scholar who
graduated with a degree in engineering from the prestigious University of Michigan. He passed away on April 14, 1994,
and generously bequeathed a portion of his estate to the Polish Falcons for education purposes. In 1998, the Gorecki
Scholarship Fund was established to reward those Falcon Members who demonstrate the highest academic standards
and leadership qualities.
Alicja Zajkowski
Kaitlyn Johns
Nest 36
Southwestern CT
Hamtramck, MI
Chicago, IL
General Category
General Category
General Category
College:
College:
College:
Benedictine University
Hillsdale College
Bradley University
Major:
Major:
Major:
Business Administration and
Public Health
Economics
Industrial Engineering
Minor:
Minor:
German and Music
Leadership Studies
Nest 86
Julie Ann Jaskierski
Nest 827
13
10
$100 VISA GIFT
CARD WINNER!
PFA
$
Referral
program
David Smith
Nest 163
Pittsburgh, PA
Congratulations
on your referrals!
Tricia Cherundolo, Nest 128, Duryea, PA (2 referrals)
Brian Najaka, Nest 163, Mocanaqua, PA
James Ball, Nest 247, Donora, PA
Veronica Polk, Nest 804, Pittsburgh, PA
•
Mail completed Referral Cards to PFA National
Headquarters, Attention: John Denning, Sales
Director at 381 Mansfield Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15220.
(Juvenile Term Plans do not qualify for drawings.)
•
Monthly a $10 referral fee will be paid to the
recommender who completes a lead card that results
in a sale.
•
The recommender will also qualify for a quarterly
drawing for every qualified referral that resulted in a
sale. The winner of the drawing will receive a $100
gift card.
•
All recommenders will also qualify for a $500 grand
prize drawing at the end of the year.
Nest 128 is currently in the lead!
The Nest that has the largest number of new Members referred through this lead program
will be awarded $500 and will receive special Nest recognition in the Sokól Połski magazine
and on the PFA website.
Polish Falcons of America $10 Referral Card
Name:
Address:
Email:
Phone:
Gender:
Nest No.:
Male
Female
Age:
Name:
Date of birth:
Phone:
(Name of Recommender)
(Phone Number of Recommender)
Remembering Reverend Canon Joseph L. Sredzinski
The Reverend Canon Joseph L. Sredzinski, a retired priest of
the Diocese of Greensburg, died unexpectedly in his sleep Oct.
10 while visiting Krakow, Poland, with high school classmates.
A priest for 45 years, he was 71. Visitation was held at St.
Joseph Parish, Uniontown, Monday, Oct. 19, from 1-8 p.m.
A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at St. Joseph
Church Tuesday, Oct. 20, at 11 a.m. with The Most Reverend
Edward C. Malesic, Bishop of Greensburg, serving as principal
celebrant. Interment followed at St. Thomas Roman Catholic
Cemetery, Footedale. Father Sredzinski was born March
19, 1944, in Connellsville to the late Louis and Josephine
Ann (Kois) Sredzinski. As a child, he attended the former St.
Joseph School, Uniontown, and St. Anthony of Padua High
School in Watkins Glen, N.Y. He earned his bachelor's degree
in philosophy from Saint Mary's College, Orchard Lake,
Mich., and a master's of divinity from SS. Cyril and Methodius
Seminary, Orchard Lake. He was ordained a priest by Bishop
William G. Connare on May 9, 1970, at Blessed Sacrament
Cathedral, Greensburg.
Father Sredzinski also did graduate work at the Dominican
House of Studies, Washington, D.C., and the Pontifical North
American College, Rome. He served as a deacon with St.
John Paul II at Orchard Lake, Mich., and also met with him
at the Vatican. He was named an honorary canon of Lublin
Cathedral in Lublin, Poland, by Archbishop Joseph M. Zycinski
on July 23, 2007. Cardinal Adam J. Maida, the archbishop of
Detroit, announced this honor in the U.S. during a ceremony at
the Pope John Paul II Cultural Center, Washington, D.C.
"He was a priest forever."
"He was a priest forever," said his sister Patricia Brensy. He
loved his work and sharing it with people, and he also enjoyed
traveling and experiencing new adventures, she said. "And
he kept his ties, and he always knew where his roots were
from," Brensy said. She noted that her brother was the first
priestly vocation from St. Joseph Parish, Uniontown. "My
parents were so very proud of him," she said. "He loved his
mother and his dad, and the faith that they instilled in (Father
Sredzinski) filled him with an everlasting love for his God,"
Brensy said. Father Sredzinski served as associate pastor
Father Joe meeting Pope John Paul II
16
Father Joe offering communion at the 2015 mass
honoring Our Lady of Częstochowa
at St. Margaret Mary Parish and its former mission, St. John
Bosco, Lower Burrell (1970-72); the former Holy Rosary Parish,
Republic (1972-74); St. Mary of Czestochowa Parish, New
Kensington (1974-79); and St. Peter Parish, Brownsville, and
its former mission, Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Newell (197984). Father Sredzinski was pastor of the former St. Stanislaus
Parish, Calumet (1984-89); St. Joseph Parish, Everson (19891999); and St. Hubert Parish, Point Marion (1999-2007). He also
had pastoral responsibilities at Sacred Heart and Ascension
parishes, both in Jeannette (2010-retirement.) Father Sredzinski
served as chaplain at Saint Emma Monastery and the State
Correctional Institute-Greensburg (2007-10), and Westmoreland
Manor (2007-retirement), all in Greensburg. In addition, he
served as Deanery VIII representative to the Priests' Council.
He had served as national chaplain to the Polish Falcons of
America since 1981. Father Sredzinski also served on the
board of the Polish American Priests' Association and initiated
a Polish Heritage Club in Uniontown where he served as
chaplain. He spoke three additional languages: Polish, Italian
and French. Brensy said Father Sredzinski enjoyed broadcasting
his weekly WMBS (Uniontown) radio program, "That You May
Believe," to over 6,000 listeners over the Internet and local radio
stations. Father Sredzinski retired from all pastoral and chaplain
responsibilities July 1, 2015. Father Lawrence L. Hoppe, a
retired priest of the Diocese of Greensburg, was one of Father
Sredzinski's closest friends. "He always dressed as a priest, and
I admired that in him," Father Hoppe said, noting this reflected
Father Sredzinski's great love for the priesthood.
"He was always out to help
others in whatever way he
could."
"He was always out to help others in whatever way he could," he
said, whether it was helping immigrants or men recently released
from prison. "And he loved all the sacraments and things relating
to the Polish culture," adding that Father Sredzinski traveled
to Poland nearly 20 times in his lifetime. Father Sredzinski is
survived by brothers James (Patricia) Sredinski and Charles
Sredinski of Naples, Fla.; and sisters Patricia (Michael) Brensy
and Sister Jolenta Sredinski, Sisters of the Holy Spirit, Pittsburgh.
In addition he is survived by many nephews and cousins, two
uncles, one niece, great nephews and a great niece.
Remarks from President Kuzma at the service
Thank you for joining Members of Polish Falcons here
today as we pay our last respects to a great man...
...and a loyal and faithful Member of the Polish Falcons. But
Rev. Canon Joseph Sredzinski wasn’t your ordinary Member.
For those of you who don’t know, let me tell you about his
service to our organization. He was signed as a Member by
George Swanderski in October 1974. Seven years later he
was asked to serve as National Chaplain by President Bernard
Rogalski. I wonder if Father Joe ever imagined back then that
he would remain as our Chaplain for the next 34 years. He
would serve with four Falcon Presidents. He worked with four
National Secretaries, four 1st Vice Presidents, four 2nd Vice
Presidents and a host of National Directors from around the
country. In all those years, Fr. Joe was the one constant – the
one unshakable rock of faith for our organization. No matter
how many executive officers changed, how many Directors, how
many staff came and went – there was always that one person
who remained, who stood like a beacon – a guide post, that we
could always count on.
We all know that as we travel along this mysterious journey
of life that there will always be change. The world changes,
society changes. There is nothing we can do about it. For an
organization like PFA, understanding a new reality, and more
importantly, how to deal with a new reality is absolutely essential
if the organization is going to not just survive, but thrive, prosper
and grow. That is our challenge today, as it was yesterday, and
as it will be tomorrow. I was blessed, honored and privileged to
have worked with Fr. Joe for the PFA for the past 30 plus years.
Whether it was at the Board of Directors meeting, speaking
at a Falcon event, or preaching a homily at a Mass, Fr. Joe
consistently reminded us of one important lesson – keep true
to your principles. Don’t forget who you are. Never let go of the
core beliefs that define your organization. That belief is not only
true for an organization, it is a lesson for all of us as individuals.
Know yourself; be true to yourself; don’t try to be something you
are not. The philosophy that he taught each administration of
PFA is best summarized in an excerpt from the very last column
he wrote for our Polish Falcon magazine. Let me read it to you:
"We as Polish Falcons proudly promote our fraternity as family
friendly and should be so as it includes all members of families –
youth, adults and whole families. What a fraternity, and it’s ours!
I, thus, wholeheartedly, encourage all Falcons and Falconettes
to get back to the basics, putting God first, then family, neighbor
and self."
Fr. Joe did not go with the flow. He was not one to see which
way the winds were blowing and then provide his guidance and
counsel to us. If you were waiting for him to tell you what you
wanted to hear, rather than the truth, you were going to wait a
long time. He spoke the truth and never wavered in his beliefs. It
is what made him a great man, priest and Chaplain for PFA.
My task in the immediate future is appointing a new Chaplain. I
never even contemplated this and I do not welcome it, knowing I
can never replace Fr. Joe and all he brought to our organization
for 34 years. There will be another Chaplain, there will never be
another Fr. Joe.
Before I conclude I do want to add some thoughts about Fr. Joe
of a personal nature. I often tell people that I wear a number of
hats in my career and life. Right now, I put them all aside and I
am just Tim, and I proudly say – a friend of Fr. Joe. There are
the moments when you look back at your life and remember the
important dates, events, those special occasions in life. As I think
back on my relationship with Fr. Joe, what I find odd is that I can’t
remember the first time we met. That memory just isn’t there.
What I wouldn’t give to just ask him to remind me. Maybe it will
come to me one of these days. But just because that moment
was not etched in my memory doesn’t mean our relationship
was not full of meaning and importance. I do remember that
we became close friends as our love of Polish culture, history
and tradition and our desire to preserve this heritage was
deeply important to both of us. Through our work with PFA, we
discussed many ideas for the betterment of the Polish American
Community. In my younger days, when I was deeply involved
with Polish folk dancing, Fr. Joe supported our group at every
opportunity. We performed at his church in Everson and St.
Hubert in Point Marion.
When we had to travel for PFA, we would travel together. And
oh the conversations we had. We solved every problem known
to man and even woman. And we solved problems that weren’t
even problems yet. There were three primary staples on these
trips: Polkas, at least one recitation of the Rosary and a large
pack of Twizzlers. But those days came to an end, but for a good
reason. In 1992, he officiated at my wedding to my wife, Patti.
Such a joyous occasion and Fr. Joe was the only priest we ever
considered. Several years later Fr. Joe performed the funeral
service for Patti’s father and in 2008, he did the same for
my mother.
With PFA I was glad to work with Fr. Joe on many important
occasions and celebrations for PFA. Some of those highlights
include the 1987 100th anniversary celebration, seven National
Conventions, Mass at the National Zlots, and other youth
activities. Let me tell you about the National Zlot in 1988. At the
prior Zlot in 1984 in Michigan, our young Members caused about
$30,000 of damage at the university where they were staying.
Fr. Joe was appalled. He made it his mission at the Zlot in 1988
and every Zlot since then to pray with the participants and bless
them at the beginning of the Zlot. There was never a repeat of
the incident in 1984.
More recently Fr. Joe was especially proud of the annual Mass
we hold in honor of Our Lady of Czestochowa at St. Paul
Cathedral. We discussed this idea soon after I became President
in 2008. We had our first meeting with Bishop Zubik later that
year and the Bishop told us there was not enough time to do
anything, but that he would support having Mass on August
26 the following year. Fr Joe was ecstatic. He put together a
committee and we started work. This past August marked 7th
Annual Mass at the Cathedral. That celebration is a testament
that everything that Fr. Joe believed in as a priest and as a Polish
American. That celebration will just not be the same without Fr.
Joe’s huge presence at the Altar. (Continued on Pg. 23)
F E AT U R E
By Robert Strybel,
Polish/Polonian Affairs Writer
T
'was the day before Christmas – the house was astir,
Tatuś had brought home a ceiling-high fir.
It filled our whole house with a nice woodsy scent,
After setting it up, again off he went.
From the kitchen there wafted those Christmas Eve savors.
They made our mouths water for once-a-year flavors.
Babcia sliced up the noodles from the dough she made best,
Round the bread-board she tossed them to give them a rest.
Dziadzio cleaned all the fish, when there weren't anymore,
He went on to help with the next Christmas chore.
With a bowl ‘twixt his legs Janek sat on the floor,
Crushing the poppyseeds his back to the door.
The mushrooms had soaked and now could be cooked,
The uszka would taste just as good as they looked.
The finished pierogi were arrayed and all ready
To be cooked in a pot boiling ever so steady.
Mama laced all the herring with onions and cream
And started preparing the perch, pike and bream.
Teenage Krystyna was trimming the tree
Behind a locked door so Zosia couldn’t see.
She wanted to keep it a special surprise
To see the excitement in little sister’s eyes.
One by one later they slipped from the home
To go to confession, repent and atone.
For nothing today should be blemished or soiled.
Both body and soul must be cleansed and unspoiled.
So as evening approached they all washed and dressed
And chose from their wardrobes their holiday best.
In the window stood Zosia her gaze fixed on far,
Trying to spot the evening’s first star.
She silently wondered there as she stood
Whether today she had been extra good.
For Babcia had told her: ‘Zosieńka, my dear,
How you are on Wigilia you’ll be the whole year!’
The table was set – what a sight to behold!
That once-a-year ritual soon would unfold.
18
The top had been strewn with a handful of hay
In memory of Jesus and the bed where he lay.
A tablecloth followed – pure snowy-white
The only kind suited for this special night.
It was an old heirloom all trimmed with lace.
And at the table there was one extra place
For some lonely, poor traveler who night knock on the door,
Hungry and weary and chilled to the core.
On a plate on the table amid fir sprigs and hay
A snowy-white wafer majestically lay.
Dziadzio took it, blessed it and broke it in two,
Giving one piece to Babcia with feelings so true:
‘I wish you, Mamusiu, God’s very best,
With joy and good health may you always be blessed.’
Babcia wished him the same and the two of them then
Extended to all those warm wishes again.
We all broke Opłatek, shared wishes and kissed,
Assuring that no family member be missed.
During that moment so tender and dear
In more than one eye there glistened a tear.
For the dearly departed and those who were far
And could not break bread on the Feast of the Star.
There appeared on the table a covered tureen,
Its savory fragrance betrayed soup unseen.
Within was the barszcz ruby-red and so clear
With floating small dumplings – each shaped like an ear.
Next came the herring with crusty rye bread
Or boiled potatoes which some liked instead.
There were three kinds of fish and kapusta with peas,
Pierogi with cabbage, potatoes and cheese.
Although this alone was more than enough,
Next came the sweet things – such wonderful stuff!
Poppyseed noodles, stewed raisins and prunes,
All you could hear was the clatter of spoons.
Then came makowiec, that fine Wigilia cake,
So luscious as only our Babcia could bake.
Piernik and keks, figs, dates and nuts.
‘You must sample each with no ifs or buts!’
When we’d eaten our fill and had room for no more,
Someone rose from he table and flung open the door.
There in the parlor all ashimmer and aglow
Glistened the tree as if sprinkled with snow.
Its ornaments sparkled in the tapers’ gold light,
Bringing radiance and warmth on this cold winter’s night.
Soon there resounded a familiar old chord
On Dziadzia’s accordion in praise of the Lord:
‘Wśród nocnej ciszy’ and ‘Lulajże’ too
Were sung with great fervor as Poles always do.
Since ‘Dzisiaj w Betlejem’ was the favorite of most,
Dziadzia played in again – a most amiable host.
By now it was late and soon Babcia said:
‘It’s time for Pasterka – Zosieńka to bed!’
She needed some coaxing, at last she gave in,
Too much excitement this long day had been.
All bundled up we then trudged through the cold
To hear the nativity story retold.
Pasterka was glorious and always has been,
A Mass that awakens the goodness in men.
And that more or less is the end of our poem,
For after Pasterka we all headed home.
May the joy of Wigilia, so Polish and dear
Fill you and your family throughout the New Year!
19
F E AT U R E
How Do I Say That?
Pronouncing the Polish Christmas…
By Robert Strybel, Polish/Polonian Affairs Writer
ADWENT
KOLĘDA
ANIOŁ
OPŁATEK
[AHD-vent] Advent, the nearly four-week period of spiritual
preparation for Christmas.
[AH-nyo] The Polish word for angel.
BOŻE NARODZENIE
[BAW-zheh nah-raw-DZEH-nyeh] Literally God’s birth or divine
birth. This is the standard Polish word for Christmas.
[aw-PWAH-tek] This white unleavened wafer, imprinted with
nativity motifs, is sometimes referred to as “angel bread” or
“the bread of love.” It is the single most important artifact of
Polish-style Christmas. Traditionally, it is broken and shared at
the start of the Wigilia supper.
DRZEWKO
PASTERKA
GODNE ŚWIĘTA
ŚWIĘTY MIKOŁAJ
GWIAZDA BETLEJEMSKA
WIGILIA
[JEFF-kaw] Literally means “little tree” and is the common term
for Christmas tree in southern Poland.
[GAWD-neh SHFYEN-tah] An old-fashioned name for
Christmas, especially the entire 12 days from Christmas Eve
until the Three Kings.
[GVYAHZ-dah bet-lay-EM-skah] The Star of Bethlehem, a
name also given to the poinsettia (red Christmas flower).
JASEŁKA
[yah-SEW-kah] A nativity play, usually staged by children who
re-enact the story of shepherds going to Bethlehem to honor
Baby Jesus.
20
[kaw-LEN-dah] Christmas carols or traditional songs honoring
the nativity.
[pah-STAIR-kah] Shepherd’s Mass celebrated at midnight on
Christmas Eve.
[SHFYEN-tih mee-KAW-why] St. Nicholas, the kindly bishop
who visits kids on his feastday (December 6), quizzes them on
their prayers and good deeds, and rewards them with treats
and toys.
[vee-GHEEL-yah] Christmas Eve, literally: the Vigil, to Poles
the single most important day of the year.
ŻŁÓBEK
[ZHWOO-bek] Christmas crib or Nativity set.
F E AT U R E
Falconette Corner: A Season of Giving
Mary Rand & Nancy Marcuson-Capozoli,
PFA National Falconette Chairs
To all Falconettes and Falcons:
As the days of Advent bring us closer to the birthday
of the Christ-Child, let us reflect on the ‘reason of this
blessed season.’ Since childhood we learned to prepare
our homes and hearts for Christmas. Each home had its
special nativity scene. Be it the lowly ‘zlobek’ with the Holy
Family or the most elaborate of ‘shopka,’ the Baby Jesusfilled manger is in the midst of it all. So, let us all consider
‘giving’ this holyday season, just as the shepherds and
Magi. Take time for simple acts of kindness, gestures of
goodwill and generosity. Give of your talents at family
gatherings, your church events and in your community.
As Falconetttes, we can come together, each donating
something small for the greater good, keeping in mind
our Falcon Members. Our seniors may need a ride to an
appointment or grocery shopping. Our military service
members and veterans should forever be appreciated,
thanked and remembered. Support our youth programs,
as we were supported, both physically and financially.
Always show respect and esteem to your District Legion
of Honor Circle Members with a small token to each at
their LOH luncheons and other activities. At your future
meetings, please deem from your treasury, monetary gifts
to the PFA Starzynski Scholarship Fund, which assists
higher education for our youth. Show high consideration
for the Polish Falcons Heritage Foundation, which was
newly-established to keep Polish heritage, tradition and
customs alive for our future generations.
Donations can be made ‘to honor’ a special Falcon or
‘in memory’ of our dearly departed. With that in mind,
remember Reverend Canon Joseph Sredzinski, who
served for 34 years as PFA National Chaplain.
Father Joe touched many lives with his travels throughout
our Falcon nation, with his liturgies and homilies and
his conversations, perpetually demonstrating his deep
Catholic faith and his love for Poland.
Mary Rand and I would like to wish all of our Falcon
families a most joyous and Merry Christmas and may the
blessings of the newborn Savior carry on through the
New Year!
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21
Introducing the
The Polish Falcons Heritage
Foundation shall serve as a
resource for Polish Americans
to educate the community and
promote the traditions, history and
culture of Poland and Poles in the
United States.
The Polish Falcons Heritage Foundation (PFHF)
is a new non-profit that was organized by the
Polish Falcons of America in 2014.
Originally established as the Polish Falcons
Alliance of America, the PFHF shall be operated
exclusively for charitable, educational, scientific
or religious purposes. The Foundation shall serve
as a resource for Polish Americans to educate
the community and promote the traditions,
history and culture of Poland and Poles in the
United States. In keeping with the tradition of
the Polish Falcons of America, the programs
and activities of the Foundation shall focus on
the development of the physical, mental and
spiritual well-being of young people.
Scholarships for qualified young people will be
a key component of the PFHF. The Foundation
shall promote education in the forms of
workshops and cultural activities and shall
emphasize physical fitness through healthy
lifestyle choices. The Foundation shall strive
to build leaders for the future who hold the core
values that are important to their Polish Heritage,
including ethnic tolerance and integration.
As an important part of the Polish American
Community in Western Pennsylvania and the
United States, the PFHF shall work with and
support the work of other Polish American
organizations that share a similar purpose. In the
future, the PFHF plans to make distributions to
these tax-exempt organizations that will further
the cause of the Polish American Community.
Along with your support, we can preserve
our Polish heritage for future generations.
To make a donation to the Polish
Falcons Heritage Foundation, please call
844.203.9917 or visit polishheritage.org
for additional information.
F E AT U R E
Pilgrimage to Doylestown, Pa.
National Shrine of Our Lady of Czestochowa
from the late
Rev. Canon Joseph L. Sredzinski,
PFA National Chaplain
A
nnually, Polish Falcons from
Connecticut, New Jersey, Eastern
Pennsylvania and the Pittsburgh
area gather for the Polish Falcons Day of
Observance at the National Shrine of Our
Lady of Czestochowa in Doylestown. This
year’s trip took place on September 27.
During the 12:30 p.m. Holy Mass in the
lower level of the Shrine Chapel, Rev. Canon
Joseph Sredzinski joined the Pauline Fathers
at the altar and read the Gospel. In the
pews were National Director Druhna Nancy
Capozoli and husband, Angelo, National
Director Druh Tom Washington and his wife,
Bev, Druh Richard Jasinski of New Jersey
and National President Druh Tim Kuzma.
During the homily of the Mass, Pauline
Father Bartlomej Marciniak cited historical
facts of our Polish Falcons fraternal,
recalling outstanding events. Surprisingly,
we heard of a banner in Raciborz, Poland
noting an anniversary of Polish Falcons and
the establishment of our group in Lwow,
Poland in the late 1800's. Fr. Bartlomej
then recalled the replanting of Polish
Falcons in America in Chicago in 1887
by Felix Pietrowicz. We listened to hear
how our organization grew with definite
attracting principles, deep patriotism and
concern for future generations in various
American cities and towns, and also of
those who volunteered for the famous
Blue Army under General Haller. The
homily went on to note the transfer of
National Headquarters to Pittsburgh, the
number of Nests and total Membership,
of course encouraging those same basic
principles. Fr. Bartlomej was happy we
gathered again at the National Shrine
and urged us to continue in our noble
efforts in Polonia across the country.
After the Mass, Rev. Canon Joseph
Sredzinski led the group to the cemetery
to pray at the monument honoring
Druhna Leona Kozlowska and at the
gravesites of former President Teofil A.
Starzynski and longtime Sokol Polski
editor, Mieczyslaw Wasilewski. The trip
concluded with a delicious Polish Dinner.
Next year will mark the 50th anniversary
of the dedication of the National Shrine
held in 1966 and present another
opportunity to gather.
(Continued from Pg. 17)
Remembering Reverend Canon Joseph L. Sredzinski
The last time I was with Fr. Joe was at the annual Falcon pilgrimage to the Shrine of Our Lady of Czestochowa in Doylestown. Every
year after the visit, we visit the cemetery to pray and pay respects to Falcon leaders who are buried there. But this year we took a little
detour to the gravesite of the founder of the Shrine and other priests who are buried there. While there Fr. Joe pointed out the graves of
a couple of classmates of his who are buried there. Little did we know. After our prayer at the cemetery, we enjoyed meal at the cafeteria.
PFA National Directors, Nancy Capozoli (and her husband Angelo) and Tom Washington (with his wife Beverly), were there also.
In many of my speeches, I often I often talk about the unpredictability of the future. We don’t know what tomorrow will bring. We can try
and prepare for different situations, but life is a mystery, and that is what makes it so beautiful and special. Fr. Joe taught me a lot of
lessons over the past 30 years. Some I shared with you, some will belong to me. Earlier, I shared with you the last words Fr. Joe wrote
for our magazine as our National Chaplain. Let me share the first words he wrote back in July 1981 when he accepted the position of
National Chaplain in a letter to President Rogalski.
"I have deep respect of the organization and the ideas it stands for. The position of Chaplain carries certain responsibilities and I
accepted the nomination with the condition that I be a positive contribution to the Polish Falcons of America. With God’s help and the
assistance of the Officers and Membership I believe the above goal can be met. To you, Officers and Members, I am most grateful for
the election as Chaplain. Serdecznie Bóg zapłać za tą godnosć wspaniałą aby Bogu i Polonii służyć jako kapelan." Fr. Joe, you did meet
those goals. You exceeded them in a way that no one could have ever foreseen when you became our Chaplain. Over those 34 years,
everyone touched by your generous heart is a better person for having known you. PFA is a better organization for having you as its
Chaplain. I had the privilege, the honor and the pleasure for having worked by your side during my service. Our organization will long
remember your service and you will be missed greatly. And I will miss you even more. Czolem.
23
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C U LT U R A L
As Polish-American families prepare for the holiday season, often
times we forget one of the most symbolic and important decorations
to adorn the Christmas Eve table- straw! The practice of placing hay
or straw on the vigil table has been handed down from generation
to generation. This is in remembrance of our Lord Jesus and his
humble birth in a manger, but there are also deeper meanings
shrouded in antiquity.
In addition to a straw spread, evergreens, wheat stalks, handmade
ornaments and bundles of wheat were also brought into the home.
One sheaf of wheat was placed in the corner of the room and called
“DZIAD” (grandfather). It represented the departed ancestors who
returned to the home each Christmas Eve. The second sheaf was
called “ANIOL STROZ” (the guardian angel). It was hung from the
ceiling over the Christmas Eve table to ensure prosperity. The third
sheaf, a bundle of straw called “SW. JOZEF” (St. Joseph), was
placed on or under the Christmas Eve table, and was symbolic of
Our Lord’s humble birth in a manger.
On Christmas Eve night, it was customary to pull a straw from the
table and recite the words “NA SZCZECIE, NA ZDROWIE,” meaning
for good luck and good health. The straw pulled was carefully
examined and interpreted. A long green strand of straw meant a
long youthful life ahead. While a strand of straw that was wrinkled or
crushed might predict some difficulties in the future. And of course, a
short strand of straw might mean a not so long life ahead.
The straw sheaves were left in the house until the morning when
they were taken down, and the strands were scattered in the fields,
orchards and gardens while a farewell verse was recited: “Holy
sainted ancestors, go back from where you came. You have eaten
and have drunk, and once again were united as a family this eve.
Leave us now, only to return next Christmas Eve.”
A tale of Christmas Eve straw was shared with me on my travels
presenting workshops for the Polish Falcons. Allow me to share it
with you...
I asked my grandfather, “Papa, what kind of Christmas decorations
did you have in Poland?”
A Tale of
Christmas
Eve Straw
Lawrence Kozlowski,
Polish Cultural Commissioner
He responded, “Decorations? Some kind of decorations! In the old
country on Christmas Eve, my father went into the barn, and he
brought a sheaf of grain and placed it in one of the corners of our
one room cottage, and that was it.”
“That’s all?” I remarked with dismay.
“Well,” Papa added, “After the vigil supper we arranged our stools in
a circle around the wheat sheaf and sang Christmas carols.”
I was very disappointed. They had no Christmas tree, no wreaths,
and no Santa Claus. They didn’t even have Christmas lights.
Papa said it was because they had no electricity. How boring their
Christmas must have been…
The following summer during a Sunday ride through the countryside,
we passed a wheat field and my father said, “Let’s stop for some
straw to thatch a roof for the Christmas stable we’re making this
year.”
While cutting the wheat stalks, I remembered the story of my Papa’s
Christmas and asked, “Could we place some stalks of wheat in the
corner at this year’s vigil supper?”
“Of course.” Daddy said. “That’s our tradition.”
25
C U LT U R A L
Fa
la
la
Flavor
la
Tastes of Poland
Creamed Herring with Apple
(śledź w śmietanie z
jabłkiem)
Drain a 14-16 oz. jar of marinated herring,
discarding onion and spices. Cut herring into
1½ inch or so serving-size pieces. Plunge into
a large pot of cold water for 1 min. Drain well
in sieve until all dripping stops. Arrange pieces
of herring on serving dish. Drizzle with juice of
1 small lemon. Coarsely grate 1 cored, peeled,
small tart apple and mix with herring pieces.
Arrange on serving dish. Slice 2 small onions
wafer thin, break into rings and intersperse
with herring. Blend ½ - 1 c. sour cream, 1
t. confectioner’s sugar and 1 T. prepared
horseradish and pour over herring. Refrigerate
covered, several hours before serving with
boiled potatoes or rye bread.
26
By Robert Strybel,
The Polish Chef
Herring in Oil (śledź w oleju)
Drain, rinse and drain again 12-oz. jar of marinated herring. Cut
into bite-sized pieces and place in jar, interspersing herring with
a layer of chopped onions. Fill jar with salad oil and refrigerate
several hours or overnight. Drain off excess oil and turn out onto
lettuce-lined serving platter.
Herring Salad (sałatka śledziowa)
In salad bowl, combine: 1 c. diced, drained marinated herring, 2
chopped dill pickles, 1 bunch chopped green onions, 2 apples,
peeled, cored and diced, 1 c. drained canned navy beans, 1 c.
drained canned peas and carrots, 2 c. diced cooked potatoes, 1
green or red bell pepper, chopped, and (optional) 1 heaping T.
capers. Toss gently. Lace with sour cream-mayonnaise sauce:
For 1 c., fork-blend 1/2 c. each sour cream and mayonnaise and
season to taste with salt, pepper, lemon juice and brown mustard.
Refrigerate overnight for flavors to blend.
C U LT U R A L
News from
Poland
Poland's shale-gas industry
Dying
Poland’s shale-gas industry is collapsing, just four years after the
U.S. government predicted that its reserves were sufficient to fuel
the country for the next three centuries. Poland has one of Europe's
most extensive shale-gas deposits, and their discovery provided
the country with a chance of reducing its reliance on Russian
gas imports. Many of the world's leading prospecting firms won
concessions for exploratory drilling in Poland, but over the past year
their number has dropped from 58 to 32. This year, Conoco Phillips
and Chevron joined Exxon, Talisman and Marathon in pulling out of
Poland. Environmentalists have opposed the drilling which they say
contaminates ground waters, and economists have pointed to the
high extraction costs at a time of rock-bottom oil prices.
Poland's Lewandowski
Poland to repair
Pride of
Germany
Bulgaria's
Soviet era
jets
The name of Polish professional soccer player Robert
Lewandowski, 27, has long been a household word
in Germany. Lewy (pronounced Levvie), as he is
affectionately known there, ranks among the most
amazing goal-scorers in soccer history. The captain
of Poland's national team, Lewandowski is a striker
for Bayern Munich, who recently scored five goals in
under nine minutes – the fastest in any major European
football league since records have been kept. He had
been star of Poland's first-league team, Lech Poznań,
before moving to Germany's Borussia Dortmund for a
reported €4.5 million (over $5 million). Since 2014, he
has been playing for Bayern.
Once the Soviet Union's most loyal ally, Bulgaria has
been lessening its reliance on Russia ever since it joined
NATO and the European Union. In the latest such move,
the Bulgarian government has signed a deal with Poland
to repair its fleet of antiquated Soviet-era MiG-29 fighter
jets. When its plane-maintenance contract with Russia
ran out recently, Bulgarian Defense Minister, Nikolai
Nenchev, found that Poland could repair the fighter
planes at a lower cost. The re-orientation away from
Moscow has been accelerated by the Ukrainian crisis.
Source: Robert Strybel, Warsaw Correspondent
27
POLKA CELEBRATION
December 2015
C U LT U R A L
Peter Danielczuk
Nest 36, Southwestern Conn.
polkacelebration.com
Ray Henry Tribute Dance
From left: Chris Valcik, Peter J. Danielczuk and Polka Hall of Fame
member, Eddie Biegaj, live at the Ray Henry Tribute on the Polka
Jammer Network.
The Ray Henry Tribute Dance held at the K of C Hall in Saratoga
Springs, N.Y. was a complete success. Dennis Polisky & The
Maestro's Men plus additional musicians put on quite a tribute to
the late Ray Henry, playing many of his famous hits. The tribute was
also broadcasted live on the PolkaJammer network, and I had the
honor of being the Master of Ceremonies. Thanks to Ray Coblish for
organizing this great event.
5th Annual Wheeling
Polka Festival
The 5th Annual Wheeling Polka Festival will be held on
March 11-13, 2016 in the Glessner Auditorium at Wilson
Lodge at the Oglebay Resort and Conference Center in
Wheeling, W.V. Bands included at this great three-day event
include: the Knewz, The D Street Band, America's Polka
Sweetheart Stephanie, Ray Jay & The Carousels and the
Polka Family Band. Food and beverage will be available.
For Polka Fest room rates and reservations, call Wilson
Lodge at 304-243-4000, and for tickets or more information
call 304-243-4060.
Touring Poland
There are two great opportunities to tour Poland in 2016!
The first is a 12-day spring tour wih Mitch Biskop and Lenny
Gomulka from May 20-31, 2016. Departing from either
New York, Chicago or Toronto, you will travel to Warsaw,
Gdansk, Sopot, Mazurian Lakes region, Kashubian region,
and Bialystock, and spend three nights in Vilnius, Lithuania.
All inclusive cost is $3,695 per person which includes all
airfares and taxes, hotels, breakfast daily with lunch or dinner,
all entrance fees, sightseeing tours and more. For more
information, call Mitch Biskup at 617-899-5895 or Lenny
Gomulka at 413-374-7096.
The second opportunity is with the Blazonczyk Family from
Aug. 2-14, 2016 departing from Chicago and New York/JFK.
Join the Blazonczyk's for an unforgettable 12-day deluxe tour
to Poland from the Amber capital on the Baltic Coast to the
majestic Tatra Mountains. You will visit Gdansk, Torun, Warsaw,
Czestochowa, Zakopane and Krakow. Approximate tour cost is
$3,800 per person which includes airfare, two delicious meals
daily, hotels, comprehensive tours, professional guides and
more. For more information, contact Bel-Aire Enterprises at
708-594-5182.
28
Above: Peter J. Danielczuk acting as emcee for the Ray Henry Tribute in Saratoga
Springs, N.Y. with Dennis Polisky & The Maestro's Men.
Blue Prints for Dancing
Special Delivery, a group of five musicians from Buffalo, N.Y.,
have a brand-new recording out entitled, "Blueprints for Dancing."
It contains 13 great tracks including: Chrome Dome Polka, Iron
Casket Oberek, and a tribute to Happy Richie Bojczuk with the
Happy & Rich Medley. The band consists of Tom Goldyn on
drums and vocals, Mark Kohan on bass guitar and vocals, Dave
Miesowicz on sax & clarinet, Jay Skiba on trumpet and vocals
and Ted Szymanski on accordion, piano and vocals. The CD is
available on their website, thespecialdeliveryband.com.
Rediscovered Treasures
Every time Chet Schafer of Chicago Polkas goes on a treasure
hunt, he seems to find gold. He has done it once again,
discovering a master tape of the Casey Siewierski Orchestra
that was overlooked and never released. This new recording
is entitled, "Rediscovered Treasures" and consists of 12 great
instrumentals including: Silly Goose, Ruffled Feathers, Leaving
Krakow and Loving Mary. This is a great recording, and you can
order it by sending $15 postpaid to Chet Schafer Productions,
7007 W. Newport Ave., Chicago, IL 60634.
w
e
N
r
a
Ye
!
a
k
l
o
P
w
Ne
New Year's Eve
Extravaganza
A New Year's Eve Extravaganza will be held at the Glendora
Banquets, 10225 S. Harlem Ave., Chicago Ridge, IL on
December 31. Doors will open at 6:30 p.m. with dinner at
7:30, and dancing from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. Then on New Year's
Day at Glendora, a great Polka party with Tony Blazonczyk's
New Phaze, Polka Family Band and Lenny Zielinski's D-Street
Band will take place from 4-8 p.m. For more information,
contact Bel-Aire at 708-594-5182 or Tony Blazonczyk at
815-530-5917. Also on New Year's Day at the Ludlow PACC
in Ludlow, Ma., it is Dennis Polisky & The Maestro's Men and
Eddie Forman Orchestra performing. For more information,
contact Ed Szela at 413-567-1961.
10th and Final Memorial
Gift of Life Dance
The 10th and Final Memorial Gift of Life Dance in honor of
Lisa Marie Biskup will be held on April 30, 2016 at the PRCU
Hall, 1430 Oak St. in Wyandotte, Mich. Music will be provided
by Polka Country Musicians and Pan Franek and the Polka
Towners with an added attraction: A Concertina on Parade
Tribute, featuring the musical talents of Hall of Famers: Al
Piatkowski, Lenny Gomulka, Ray Jarusinski, Mitch Biskup
and Jackie Libera. Doors open at 5 p.m. with music from
5:30 p.m. to midnight. Admission is $20 per person with kids
13-and-under free. All proceeds go to the Lisa Biskup Organ
and Tissue Donor Foundation. For more information or if you
can't make the dance and would like to make a donation, call
Ron and Sue Biskup at 810-588-6266 or
visit lisabiskupmemorial.com.
11th Annual International Polka
Association Benefit Dance
The 11th Annual International Polka Association Benefit Dance
will be held on Feb. 20-21, 2016 at the Ludlow PACC, 355
East St., Ludlow, MA. On February 21, the Knewz from Buffalo
will perform from 7-11 p.m., and on February 22, the bands
performing will be: Lenny Gomulka & Chicago Push, Dennis
Polisky & The Maestro's Men, Eddie Forman Orchestra and a
All Star Tribute Band. The dance on Sunday will honor Polka
legend Lenny Gomulka. Tickets are $15 for Saturday and $20
for Sunday. Reservations are necessary, especially for Sunday
which is always a sellout. Call Ed Szela for reservations at
413-567-1961. No tickets will be held at the door, and tickets
are non-refundable.
National Polka Month
Finally, January is National Polka Month, so please support
one of your local Polka dances during this time. With that, the
International Polka Association will hold their annual Chicago
Festival of Polka Bands on Jan. 17, 2016 at Glendora
Banquets in Chicago Ridge, Ill. It will feature: Ampol Aires,
Jim Kilian Polka Band, Keith Stras and Polka Confetti, Freeze
Dried, IPA Tribute Band, Great Lake Sounds from Michigan,
Polish Connection from Wisconsin and Jake Mikrut and the
Polka Beaches. For more information, go to ipapolkas.com.
Grazyna and I would like to wish all of you a very Merry
Christmas and joyous New Year. Remember we are all one
family, all one big polka family. God Bless Poland and God
Bless America!
29
MEMBERSHIP
Board Bulletin
The Board Bulletin is a summary report on the topics discussed and the actions taken by your National Board of Directors at its Nov. 20-21
meeting that was held at PFA National Headquarters in Pittsburgh, Pa.
This report is emailed to more than 2,500 individuals with email addresses registered on the PFA website. In addition, it will be posted to the
PFA website and is published here in the Sokół Polski magazine. The PFA National Board of Directors believes strongly in creating a culture
of transparency and wants Members to know what issues the Board deals with and the reasons behind Board action on particular issues. We
encourage you to read the report carefully and to contact any Board Member or PFA President and CEO, Timothy Kuzma, if you have any
questions, comments, or concerns about the items or actions contained in this report.
Financial Report
Druh John Kuzmirek, National Secretary/Treasurer and CFO,
presented the financial results of the third quarter of 2015. Net
income for the quarter showed a slight decrease of $5,277 at the
end of the quarter. There was an operations loss in the quarter,
but realized gains from the disposal of securities offset the loss
and total surplus showed a small loss of $3,365 at the end of the
quarter. This is an improvement over the second quarter of 2014
when there was a decrease to surplus of $168,765. Income at
the end of the quarter was $5,448,134, an increase of $154,673
compared to the third quarter of 2014. At the end of the quarter,
surplus was $1,414,214. Total admitted assets now stand at
$67,395,105. The Board also approved a budget for 2016.
Medicare Supplement Insurance
President Kuzma reported that more Medicare Supplement
Insurance policies have been sold in Pennsylvania and
Illinois. As of the meeting, 50 new Medicare Supplement plans
were issued. An awareness campaign continues to provide
information about the plan to members and the larger Polish
American Community. In addition, the plans will be filed for
approval in Michigan, Indiana, Wisconsin and New Jersey.
The plans will be available for purchase in these states in early
2016.
Scholarship Committee
Druhna Del Busse, Chairperson of the Scholarship
Committee, reported that there are no changes to the 2016
Scholarship Program and that the applications will be available
in December. The deadline for the Starzynski Scholarship
is February 15th, 2016, and the deadline for the Gorecki
Schoalrship is April 15th, 2016.
Investment Committee Report
Druh Kuzma presented the quarterly report of the Investment
Portfolio from Parkway Advisors, PFA Asset Manager. The report
showed that the overall yield on the bond portfolio showed a slight
decline for Q3. There were several disposals of securities in the
quarters, none of which resulted in a loss.
Contact Information for Board Members and Executive Staff can
be found at polishfalcons.org.
30
Sales/Marketing
Druh Kuzmirek reported on the sales results for the Quarter 3 of 2015.
For the year, there were 94 (33-Q1, 34-Q2, 27-Q3) life insurance
certificates issued with an average face amount of insurance of $17,071.
There were a total of 65 (27-Q1, 16-Q2, 22-Q3) annuity certificates
issued in 2015.
Certificates Report
President Kuzma reported at the end of Q3 2015 that there was a
decline of 333 total certificates. In Q3, there were 101 losses of life
insurance certificates and 3 losses of annuity certificates. At the end of
Q3 2015, there were 20,414 life insurance certificates in force and 3,747
annuity certificates in force.
2016 PFA Activities and Programs
The Board of Directors voted to approve the programs and activities
for youth members for 2016. Following is a list of all PFA Fraternal
Programs in 2016.
Future Leaders Conference (February 19 – 21)
Homewood Suites by Hilton. Pittsburgh, Pa.
National Adult/Youth Volleyball Tournament (April 1 - 3)
Pittsburgh Elite Volleyball Center. Pittsburgh, Pa.
National Adult Bowling Tournament (April 28 - 30)
Host—Nest 610 Erie, Pa.
National Youth Camp (June 26 - July 3)
St Vincent DePaul Camp. Angola, N.Y.
National Golf Tournament (August 10 – 12)
Host—Nest 146 New Castle, Pa.
Our Lady of Czestochowa Mass (August 26)
St. Paul Cathedral. Pittsburgh, Pa.
2016 National Board of Directors Meeting Dates
Q1: March 11-12
Q3: August 26-27 Q2: May 6-7
Q4: November 18-19
Meetings in Quarters 1, 3 and 4 are scheduled to be held at National
Headquarters in Pittsburgh, Pa. The Quarter 2 meeting will be held at
the site of the PFA National Convention in South Bend, Ind.
Witamy! New Staff Members
Sandra Jaworska
Sandra Jaworska is our newest Member Service Representative. Born
in Poland, Sandra moved to the United States in 2014. She attended
the University of Opole and attained her bachelor's degree in Special
Economy and Land Management. She also studied Landscape and
Architecture at the University of Sopot for one year. Sandra lives with her
husband, Richard, and their five-year-old daughter, Susie. She is happy
to be working with the Polish Falcons.
Ewelina Jean
Sandra (left) and Evie (right) at the Polish Falcons
Heritage Foundation Inauguration Gala
Ewelina (Evie) Jean joined Polish Falcons of America in July of this
year. She began as a Membership Service Representative, and in
October, took over the Executive Assistant position. Evie was born
and raised in Poland and moved to Pittsburgh in 2010. She holds
a bachelor’s degree in Adult Education and Social Marketing from
University of Wroclaw. She lives with her husband, Joseph, and
their three-year-old daughter, Emilia. Evie is excited to share Polish
culture and traditions through her work with the Polish Falcons.
MEMBERSHIP
Welcome Falcons!
New Members
Benjamin J. Giancola 74, Auburn, NY August 21
Mason R Hedglin 159, Ford City, PA August 12
Ariana May Rheinholtz 564, La Porte, IN August 13
Sadie Marie Abramczyk 45, St Louis, MO July 30
Aubree M. Borkowski 80, South Bend, IN July 15
John J Carnevale 128, Duryea, PA July 30
Robyn L Trombly 128, Duryea, PA July 31
David R. Cannella 163, Mocanaqua, PA July 15
Bryson T Kubasek 163, Mocanaqua, PA July 24
John E. Simon 163, Mocanaqua, PA July 15
John O Micenko, Jr 247, Donora, PA July 24
Craig S Dostie 519, Middletown, CT July 30
Michael P Wilkosz 610, Erie, PA July 30
Darlene King 804, Pittsburgh, PA July 15
Jane A. Miller 804, Pittsburgh, PA July 15
Frank P. Vlanich 804, Pittsburgh, PA July 15
Anthony Adalbert Lorenc 946, Somerville, NJ July 31
Elliot D. Kolano 8, Pittsburgh, PA June 22
Chase W. Michalak 68, Meriden, CT June 11
Jacqueline Krekorian 128, Duryea, PA June 25
Richard Krekorian 128, Duryea, PA June 25
Ann Marie Love 128, Duryea, PA June 25
Judy L. Pliska 128, Duryea, PA June 25
Brian J. Wychoskie 128, Duryea, PA June 25
Matthew W, Gutowski 307, Southington, CT June 17
William W. Carpenter 519, Middletown, CT June 02
June P. Brubaker 804, Pittsburgh, PA June 29
Kendra J. Cooper 804, Pittsburgh, PA June 17
Emily Cano 946, Somerville, NJ June 17
Robert Ignatowicz 946, Somerville, NJ June 01
John Kulbabinski 946, Somerville, NJ June 17
Paul Kulbabinski 946, Somerville, NJ June 17
Filip Maziarz 946, Somerville, NJ June 17
Tomasz Maziarz 946, Somerville, NJ June 17
Members Sponsors
Robert J. Gorny 80, South Bend, IN 1
John M. Denning 118, Pittsburgh, PA 1
Walter S. Mitchell 128, Duryea, PA 2
Tricia Cherundolo 128, Duryea, PA 1
Thomas A. Washington 163, Mocanaqua, PA 1
Bruno Bruce Najaka 163, Mocanaqua, PA 2
Peter Bedford 163, Mocanaqua, PA 1
Brian T. Fuller 247, Donora, PA 1
Clifford M. Opalacz 519, Middletown, CT 1
John M. Denning 519, Middletown, CT 1
Tricia Cherundolo 519, Middletown, CT 1
Robin M. Margosian 610, Erie, PA 1
Michael L. Kellough 804, Pittsburgh, PA 1
Michael E. Skomsky 74, Auburn, NY 1
Brian T. Fuller 126, Elizabeth, NJ 1
Brian T. Fuller 159, Ford City, PA 1
Bruno Bruce Najaka 163, Mocanaqua, PA 1
David S. Smith 163, Mocanaqua, PA 1
Richard J. Donohue 494, Batavia, NY 1
Brian T. Fuller 556, Jerome, PA 1
Robert J. Gorny 564, La Porte, IN 1
Gregory F. Kuzma 8, Pittsburgh, PA 1
John M. Denning 68, Meriden, CT 1
Walter S. Mitchell 128, Duryea, PA 5
Daniel J. Michalak 307, Southington, CT 1
John M. Denning 307, Southington, CT 2
John M. Denning 519, Middletown, CT 1
Jeffery A. Armstrong 804, Pittsburgh, PA 1
John M. Denning 907, Cicero, IL 1
John M. Denning 946, Somerville, NJ 2
Deepest Condolences
Deaths
Jim Demczak 8, Pittsburgh, PA June 29, 2015
Walter Stankowski 20, Wilmington, DE June 17, 2014
Eleanor Roslonski 118, Pittsburgh, PA June 28, 2015
Terri A. Cole 276, Muskegon, MI June 10, 2015
Michael M. Kreifeldt 276, Muskegon, MI June 24, 2015
Marilyn A. Job 336, Jackson, MI July 04, 2015
Nancy Lou Konopacki * 336, Jackson, MI July 04, 2015
Nancy S. Jones 430, Auburn, NY May 29, 2015
Thaddeus J. Gurecki 804, Pittsburgh, PA June 23, 2015
Shawn M. Mossell 4, South Bend, IN July 15, 2015
Arthur J. Walawender 74, Auburn, NY August 01, 2015
Gretchen Guzicki 80, South Bend, IN July 25, 2015
Joseph M. Barrick, Sr. 147, Mt Pleasant, PA July 11, 2015
Evelyn M. Augustyniak 157, Holyoke, MA August 05, 2015
Mary Ann Weleski 159, Ford City, PA July 7, 2015
Richard S. Michalek 163, Mocanaqua, PA July 23, 2015
Stephen Dudek 171, Philadelphia, PA August 27, 2009
Rita Di Gregorio 247, Donora, PA April 30, 2011
32
Martha Marraccini 247, Donora, PA June 11, 2015
Marilyn A. Job 336, Jackson, MI July 4, 2015
Josephine Czap 485, Chelsea, MA July 11, 2015
Charlene Nye 519, Middletown, CT July 7, 2015
Roger M. Di Pesa 580, Pittsfield, MA July 15, 2015
Raymond T. Ackerman 804, Pittsburgh, PA August 16, 2004
Frank Lenceski 804, Pittsburgh, PA December 8, 2014
Alfreda Legienza 811, New Britain, CT April 22, 2015
Edward J. Janiszewski 964, Reading, PA May 19, 2005
Andrew J. Murman 128, Duryea, PA June 01, 2015
Phyllis M. Fluet 171, Philadelphia, PA June 02, 2015
Sally A. Ball 247, Donora, PA June 11, 2015
Stanley Sierminski 336, Jackson, MI December 28, 2014
James W. Mc Carthy 493, Batavia, NY June 07, 2015
Philip J. Rodon *** 493, Batavia, NY April 24, 2015
Russell S. Shroyer 556, Jerome, PA June 01, 2015
Emily L. Mysliwy 907, Cicero, IL May 23, 2015
Anna M. Skoraszewski 964, Reading, PA June 12, 2015
(*)-Legion of Honor-Bronze Level, (**)-Legion of Honor-Silver Level, (***)-Legion of Honor-Gold Level
Scholarship Donations June - August 2015
Donations of $100 or more ...
Donald L. Buczynski, Nest 4
Chase W. Michalak, Nest 68
Richard E. Sobczak, Jr., Nest 80
C. James Zeszutek, Nest 804
254th Donation of $10
(Total of $2540)
Donations of $50 or more ...
Barbara B. Feld, Nest 20
Jon M. Lewis, Nest 42
Thomas D. Powell, Nest 336
Bernard Prabucki, Nest 6
Richard Romanowski, Nest 281
Steven T. O'Hala, Nest 307
Laura A. Phelan, Nest 827
Christine Romanowski, Nest 946
Genevieve Borovicka, Nest 97
In Memoriam Donations June -August 2015
In Memory of Helen Divito
Alfrieda Pelc, Nest 6-$20.00
In Memory of Steve Jager, Nest 41
PFA Nest 41-$100.00
In Memory of Val Wojton, Nest 159
District IV LOH Circle-$20.00
In Memory of Nancy Kalet Jones, Nest 430
Nest 430 Falconettes-$10.00
In Memory of Terry Skarupski, Nest 123
Nest 123-$50.00
In Memory of Felix Krzyzanski
Eugenia Krzyzanski-$100.00
In Memory of Carl Samul, Nest 6
Nest 6-$50.00
In Memory of Walter Pawlak, Gold LOH Member, Nest 36
Nest 36-$50.00
In Memory of Frieda Legienza
Pat & Dick Thivierge-$75.00
In Memory of Susan Holak, Nest 430 Falconettes
Nest 430 Falconettes-$10.00
In Memory of Paul J. DeMartinis, Nest 6
Nest 6-$25.00
Ladies Commission District IV-$270.00
In Memory of following deceased members:
Wallyanna B. Hojdila, Nest 87
Mary E. Tavalsky, Nest 97
Elizabeth Yeager, Nest 97
Stella Greiner, Nest 118
Diane Hnath, Nest 118
Gail M. Moors, Nest 118
Kathleen A. Szalajda, Nest 118
Lorraine M. Westerman, Nest 118
Rita, Yovetich, Nest 118
Minnie E. Blessing, Nest 141
Frances Kaszubski,Nest 141
Bernice Lapinski, Nest 141
Catherine M. Smith, Nest 146
Ann Bielski, Nest 159
Anne Mazurek, Nest 159
Justine M. Antkiewicz, Nest 182
Stephanie J. Ceccarelli, Nest 182
Anna, Percy, Nest 182
Wanda Unen, Nest 182
Margaret A. Haluch, Nest 247
Marcia A. Novaleski, Nest 301
Eleanor L., Tarkowski, Nest 301
Blanche Benedetti, Nest 318
Ann A. Kairis, Nest 318
Laura J. Santillo, Nest 318
Olga A. O'Kruta, Nest 538
Janet M. Riposo, Nest 556
Donations Made In Memory of Rev. Canon Joseph Sredzinski:
Wallace Zielinski - $250.00
Nest 118 - $50.00
PFA District VI - $25.00
Nest 564 - $25.00
Ted Kokoski - $25.00
Loretta Aemisegger, Nest 45 - $15.00
33
Obituaries - In Memoriam
PFA PRIVACY POLICY STATEMENT
Robert D. Taraskiewicz
June 10, 1954 - August 1, 2015
Privacy of Personal Financial and
Medical Information
Robert D. Taraskiewicz, a Member of PFA Nest 336 Jackson,
Mich. passed away on Aug. 1, 2015. Beloved husband of
Cheryl (Davis). Father of Heather Arnett, Heidi Ehrich (Steffen)
and Andrew Taraskiewicz (Adrienne). Papa to Anthony
Terry, Alex Carter, Lily Taraskiewicz, Sepp and Elsa Ehrich.
Proceeded in death by his brother James Terry (Kathy). Bob
was a man of admirable faith, avid scholar, hard worker, fun
and caring father figure to many over the years. He took pride
in being 100% Polish, loved God, his family, and life. We smile
in remembrance of his love of all things tactical and battle
related. We look forward to seeing him again on the shores of
Paradise. May he rest in peace.
Martin T. Engler
March 25, 1930 - July 31, 2015
Martin T. Engler Jr., 85, of Arnold, passed away on July 31,
2015 in Family Hospice, Lawrenceville. He was born in New
Kensington on March 25, 1930 to the late Martin Anthony
Sr. and Sophia Shemenski Engler, and has been a lifelong
resident of the local area. Mr. Engler received his bachelor's
degree from Clarion University where he played football and
was part of the only undefeated season in Clarion football
history. He was then recruited as an outfielder by the New
York Yankees farm team- the Olean, N.Y. Yankees. He was a
veteran of the Korean War where he received the Purple Heart
serving in the Marine Corps. He was a member of St. Mary
of Czestochowa Roman Catholic Church, New Kensington;
PFA Nest 41, New Kensington, Pa. where he was a former
Officer, Gold Legion of Honor recipient, and President of the
golf league; VFW Post 92, Lower Burrell; American Legion
Post 868, Lower Burrell; the Seventh Street Sportsman's
Club and the FO Eagles, both of New Kensington. He worked
as an operator/electrician for West Penn Power for 35 years
until retiring in 1989. He was also an avid golfer and enjoyed
gardening, bowling, and the Pittsburgh Steelers and Pirates.
He is survived by his three children: Donald Martin (Evelyn
Dillingham) Engler of New Kensington, Robert Andrew (Tina)
Engler of Lebanon, Pa., Regina (Brad) Engler-Berecin of New
Kensington, seven grandchildren: Amanda, Donald, Brandon,
and Sarah Engler and Nicolette, Preston and Danica Berecin.
In addition to his parents he was preceded by his first wife
Regina Catherine Siuta Engler on April 28, 1982 and his
second wife Dorothy Ludwig Engler on April 28, 2011, son
Randall Engler in 2002, grandson Daniel Engler in 2012, sister
Gloria Larko, brother Ronald Engler, sister Inez Michel, and
infant sister Elizabeth Engler. May he rest in peace.
34
Protecting the privacy of your personal
financial and medical information has
always been and will continue to be a
matter of top priority for us. When used in
this notice, the following terms have the
meaning shown.
* Public Information means information
that is lawfully available to the general
public from: Federal, State or local
government records; widely distributed
media; or, disclosures to the general
public that are required to be made by
Federal, State or local law.
* Non-Public Information means
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medical information. It also means
any list, description or other grouping
of individuals, and publicly available
information pertaining to them, that is
derived from any personally identifiable
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* Consumer Reporting Agency means
an entity which regularly provides
reports (Consumer Reports) including
information regarding an individual’s:
general reputation, character, personal
characteristics or mode of living and
financial status. The information may
be obtained through interviews with
the individual or third parties, such as
the individual’s: business associates,
family members, friends, neighbors,
acquaintances or financial sources.
We obtain information about you from
the following sources: information that
you provided to us in an application
or other form; information about your
transactions with us (such as premium
payments, loans, claims, etc.), or others;
and information that we may receive from
a Consumer Reporting Agency.
We will not disclose any personal,
non-public information about you to
anyone, except as permitted or required
by law. We will not disclose personal
medical information about you, except
as permitted by law or as you may
authorize
We restrict access to your personal,
insurance and medical information
to those of our employees who need
to know that information in order to
provide insurance or service to you.
We are, and will continue to be, vigilant
in the safeguarding of your personal
financial and medical information.
We maintain physical, electronic and
procedural safeguards to comply with
Federal and State regulations regarding
the safeguarding of non-public
information.
It is our sincere desire to maintain
complete, accurate and up-to-date
records. You may contact us to access,
as provided by law, information included
in your file. We will promptly correct
any error in our information. To protect
your privacy, you will need to identify
yourself by providing us with your name,
date of birth and social security number.
Sokól
Polski
Polish Falcon
BI-WEEKLY OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE POLISH FALCONS OF AMERICA - SINCE 1896
23.
15 DECEMBER, 1981
97 SO. 18TH ST. PITTSBURGH, PA. 15203
SECOND CLASS POSTAGE PAID IN PITTSBURGH, PA
U S P 500-640
Chaplain's
Corner
In memory of Rev. Canon Joseph Sredzinski,
we are reprinting his very first Chaplain’s
Corner column.
Fellow Falcons and Falconettes:
Allow me to begin this column with the ever familiar
greeting, “Niech bedzie pochwalony Jezus Chrystus.”
At the recent Plenary Meeting of the Polish Falcons, held in
the headquarters in Pittsburgh, I was sworn in as National
Chaplain. As previously noted, I take this honor to serve
you with deep pride and the desire to contribute to our
great organization. At that same gathering, the suggestion
was made to publish a regular article for the "Sokol Polski,"
thus we have the Chaplain's Corner or Kacik Kaplana.
Hopefully I can better realize the requirements of my newly
elected office as outlined in the Constitution, and likewise
share some fruitful thoughts for your spiritual growth.
After all, w zdrowym ciele, zdrowy duch.
Laments are regularly heard concerning the diminishing
influence of our Polish culture. Less Polish is spoken.
Less Polish songs are sung. Less Polish is taught in the
parochial schools, and many newspapers and periodicals
in the Polish language are forced to fold. Yet, there is a
definite interest in "roots." College students want to know
their cultural or ethnic identity. People are formulating
family trees, and much is both written and stated
concerning ethnicity. So, we, in the Falcons should note
this paradox and surface with some solution.
Father Joe at the 2014 mass
honoring Our Lady of Częstochowa
As National Chaplain, I wholeheartedly support the return of the
regular usage of the Polish greeting above. Let the grandchildren
hear you say this often. Enter homes of fellow Falcons and
Falconettes with this greeting. Let our local and national meetings
include this familiar Polish phrase. It's certainly a positive way to
continue the use of the beautiful Polish language. It's in harmony
with the messages of our Holy Father. It certainly indicates a
strong spirit in the hearts and souls of Falcon Members. Let
everyone hear us. May His name be praised forever and ever.
Zycze wam. z calego serca, wesolych swiat i takze wam
blogoslawie. Czolem z Bogiem.
35
Polish Falcons of America
USPS
381 Mansfield Avenue
Pittsburgh, PA 15220-2751
Save the Date!
77th Annual
Polish Falcons of America
Handicap Bowling Tournament
April 29-30, 2016
Hosted by Nest 4 South Bend, IN:
Chippewa Lanes
225 W. Chippewa Ave.
South Bend, IN 46614
For more information visit:
polishfalcons.org
Christmas Special!
Polish Falcons of America is happy to announce a special
promotion for juveniles between the ages of 0 and 18. For a
limited time, we are featuring the Single Premium Plan with
a special bonus for Christmas. For applications submitted
from Nov. 15 through Dec. 31, 2015, PFA will provide a 10%
discount on the premium payment!
$10,000
SINGLE
WHOLE
$10,000
SINGLEPREMIUM
PREMIUM WHOLE
LIFELIFE
ONE-TIME
PAYMENT
ONE-TIME PAYMENT
AGE
John Denning's nephew eating
pierogi and reading the Sokol Polski
MALE STANDARD
NON- TOBACCO
FEMALE STANDARD
NON- TOBACCO
0
903.60
813.24
802.90
722.61
1
923.30
830.97
821.20
739.08
2
946.20
851.58
841.20
757.08
3
971.20
874.08
862.60
776.34
4
997.80
898.02
885.00
796.50
5
1,025.50
922.95
908.20
817.38
6
1,055.00
949.50
932.90
839.61
7
1,085.30
976.77
958.30
862.47
8
1,116.60
1,004.94
984.30
885.87
9
1,148.90
1,034.01
1,011.10
909.99
10
1,182.10
1,063.89
1,038.70
934.83
11
1,218.50
1,096.65
1,069.90
962.91
12
1,255.60
1,130.04
1,101.80
991.62
13
1,293.50
1,164.15
1,134.60
1,021.14
14
1,332.20
1,198.98
1,168.20
1,051.38
15
1,371.00
1,233.90
1,202.50
1,082.25
16
1,408.30
1,267.47
1,237.30
1,113.30
17
1,445.90
1,301.31
1,272.30
1,145.07
18
1,483.80
1,335.42
1,308.60
1,177.74

nests/districts - Polish Falcons of America

Transcription

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The official publication of the Polish Falcons of America since 1896