EASTER SECTION-

POLISH EASTER
EASTER SECTION-
Food-blessing –
-
By Robert Strybel
A Favorite Polish Easter custom
The blessing of Easter food has been practiced in Poland since the 15th
century. At Easter time, the Polish soldiers fighting under Napoleon in
Samosierra, Spain in the early 19th century, insisted that their holiday foods be
blessed. Unfortunately, the Spanish priests back then lacked the proper
prayers for the occasion. This is undoubtedly the most popular Polish Easter
custom, practiced by some 95 percent of all families in Poland. That is roughly
the same percentage that share opłatek on Christmas Eve. Both customs were
also brought to American by our immigrant ancestors.
Each of the food items in the święconka (Easter basket) have a symbolic
meaning. You can tell your youngsters about it when assembling the Easter
basket they are helping you prepare:
– The white linen or lace napkin that lines the wicker basket may be perceived
as the shroud the enclosed the lifeless body of Christ;
– The Baranek (Easter Lamb), made of butter or sugar (rock candy), but also
of dough, wood, plaster, fleece or even plastic, symbolizes the sacrificial
Paschal lamb, in other words Jesus himself, whose banner proclaims the victory of life over death.
– Easter eggs signify new life; just as a chick pecks its way out of its shell, so
too Christ rose from His tomb to bring us the promise of eternal life.
– Bread, either a slice of ordinary rye bread or a special small round loaf imprinted with a cross, symbolizes “the bread of life” – a metaphor for God’s
grace that sustains us.
– Meat and sausage are symbols of the Paschal lamb or Christ resurrected,
His victory over death and His promise of eternal life.
– Horseradish is one of the bitter herbs of the Passover which foretold the suffering of Christ on the Cross. It is also symbolic of life in which one must accept the bitter with the sweet.
– Vinegar symbolizes the sour wine (our English word “vinegar” comes from
the French “vin aigre” – sour wine) which Jesus was given on a sponge to
drink while hanging on the cross.
– Salt symbolizes that which preserves us from corruption and adds zest to
daily life.
– Cakes and sweets suggest the sweetness of eternal life: following week’s of
Lenten self-denial, they can now be freely enjoyed in celebration of Christ’s
Resurrection.
Over the years, I have noticed how many baskets brought to Warsaw
parishes for the blessing have become progressively smaller and more symbolic. Some święconkas are tiny wicker baskets that barely fit two or three
eggs, a little sugar (rock-candy) lamb, a two-inch piece of sausage, a slice of
babka and not much else. But in the Polish countryside, much larger baskets
are common.
A similar phenomenon has also occurred in my home state of Michigan.
Medium-sized baskets accommodating perhaps half a dozen Easter eggs and
a similar quantity of other delicacies were typical in the Detroit area of my
childhood. But I was in for a surprise in the late 1970s, when my family spent a
couple of years in Bay City, Michigan, a hundred miles to the north.
There, some of the old Polonian families, tracing their roots to 19th century
immigrants from the Poznań region, took the food-blessing custom quite literally, bringing to church most everything they planned to serve on Easter Sunday. I vividly recall one family that came with a large wicker laundry basket that
included a whole ham, loads of kiełbasa, a few dozen eggs, several coffee
cakes and jars of beet horseradish as well as wine whisky and even a case of
beer!
The blessed food or hallowfare is known in Polish as “święcone” (the consecrated things). The custom itself is known as “święcenie pokarmów
wielkanocnych” (blessing Easter food) or “święcenie święconego” (blessing
hallowfare). Święcone is also the name given to Easter breakfast which
often turns into an all-day affair. In some cases, a Święconka table is set
up in a private home and neighbors bring their hallowfare there to be
blessed.
Nowadays the blessing is usually performed in churches. In nice weather, a
table may be set up for that purpose outside the church. Traditional Easter
foods – eggs, sausage, ham, bread, a butter lamb in Polonia and a sugar one
in Poland, babka and such condiments as horseradish, salt, pepper and perhaps a cruet of vinegar – are brought to church for the ritual blessing. The officiating priest prays over the baskets and sprinkles them with Holy Water. It is
customary to pray at the Lord's Tomb (above) and take home a bottle a freshly
blessed Holy Water for the family’s home use, like when the priest pays his annual pastoral “kolęda” visit the following new year.
SOKÓŁ POLSKI—POLISH FALCON
APRIL 2011
PAGE 13
POLISH EASTER
Elements of
A Polish Easter
Śmigus-Dyngus
By Robert Strybel
The following list contains some of the more important
Polish words and phrases connected to Lent and Easter.
Palma
Rezurekcja
Pisanki
Alleluja: This is the Polish spelling of Alleluia, a term which
in Hebrew means “praise Jehovah”. In Polish tradition it is
closely associated with Easter, in fact it forms part of the
traditional Easter greeting: “Wesołego Alleluja” (see below).
baba, babka: baba, tall, tapered, usually yeast-raised
cake; a typical Easter treat.
baranek: Easter lamb; made of cake, butter, sugar, wood,
fleece, plaster or plastic and placed in Easter basket and on
the Easter table as the main centerpiece,
biały barszcz: tart, white Easter soup containing eggs,
sausage, etc.. typical of eastern Poland; similar to żurek
(see last entry)
Boży Grób, Grób Pański: a tableau of Our Lord's Tomb
(Holy Sepulcher), usually set up at one of the church’s side
altars, surrounded by flowers, ferns and candles and often
watched over by rotating honor guards.
bukszpan: boxwood, a small-leafed evergreen used to
make Easter palms, decorate Easter baskets and Easter platters and
weave garlands strung round the edge of the święconka table
chrzan: horseradish, a pungent root symbolizing the bitter herbs of the
Passover and the gall Jesus was given on the cross, is a typical condiBaranek - Butter Lamb
ment accompanying Easter foods.
ćwikła: beetroot & horseradish relish or salad, a typical Easter go-together with hard-cooked eggs, ham, sausage and other cold meats
dyngus: an old rural custom of post-Easter house-to-house masquerading and trick-or-treating with
revelers often pulling a rooster cart and drenching stingy householders; also see śmigus-dyngus
(below);
Dyngus Day: Easter Monday celebration in Polonia, especially popular in Buffalo, NY and South
Bend, IN but also celebrated by Pol-Ams in Chicago, Detroit and elsewhere.
dzielenie się jajkiem: The sharing of wedges of blessed hard-cook eggs begins the family breakfast or brunch served after Easter morning Mass; this symbolically ends the 40-day Lenten fast (although some Poles start in on the treats right after the Holy Saturday food blessing).
jajo, jajko: The Polish word for egg, at Eastertime a prominent ritual artifact and food symbolizing
new life; just as a chick pecks its way out its egg-shell confinement, so too Jesus broke out of His
entombment when He rose from the dead.
kiełbasa: sausage, a typical Polish Easter treat; both the biała (fresh) and wędzona (smoked) varieties are served hot and cold, boiled and baked as well as in soups.
kraszanki: solid-colored Easter eggs; before the era of store-bought dyes, these were made by
placing eggs in water in which onion skins, spinach, certain tree barks, beets, etc. had been boiled.
kroszonki: This is not only the dialectic Silesian (Śląsk) pronunciation of kraszanki, but refers to a
specific technique in which are eggs dyed a solid dark color such as black, dark navy blue or dark
violet, and designs are etched on with a sharp pointed instrument, exposing the lighter-colored
undyed shell beneath.(singular - kroszonka)
Lany Poniedziałek: Wet Easter Monday when śmigus-dyngus (see below) is practiced
mazurek: mazurka, flat Polish Easter cake with a variety of toppings, cut into squares for serving;
similar to the American sheet-cake.
Niedziela Palmowa = Palm Sunday; the day “palmy” (see below) are blessed in church; formerly
also known as Kwietna Niedziela (Floral Sunday) and Wierzbna Niedziela (Willow Sunday).
oklejanki or nalepianki: Easter eggs decorated by having have various plants or colored paper
glued on to form geometric or wycinanka-like designs.
palma, palemka: several pussywillow twigs tied together with boxwood or cranberry leaves are the
“palms” blessed in church on Palm Sunday; in the Kurpie (Białystok) area poles 10 to 30 feet long
are decorated with evergreens, ribbons and crepe-paper flowers; also a colorful rod-shaped bouquet made from dried, often brightly dyed wildflowers, herbs, pussywillows and evergreens
pascha: A rich Easter dessert made of curd cheese and containing raisins and other southern
fruits, candied orange ring, nuts, etc.
pisanki: patterned Easter eggs made by applying designs with a special stylus or pin dipped in
molten beeswax and then dying the eggs; to get multicolored eggs the procedure could be repeated
a number of times. (singular - pisanka)
Rezurekcja: Early morning Easter Mass that begins at daybreak with a procession which thrice encircles the church.
szynka: Ham, a typical Easter treat; in Polish tradition nearly always served as a sliced, cold meat
to be eaten with horseradish, ćwikła and bread.
śmigus-dyngus = Easter Monday custom of boys drenching girls with water
święconka: in Poland – the wicker basket in which Easter food is blessed or the custom itself; in
Polonia – also an Easter party (dinner-dance) usually held during Easter week.
Wielkanoc: Easter; literally: the Great Night; sometimes also known as Wielka Niedziela (Great
Sunday)
żur, żurek: rye-meal soup; a meatless version of this tart soup was once a dietary mainstay during
Lent; on Easter Sunday, a much tastier smoked-meat-based version is served. Similar to biały
barszcz (see above).
Kroszonka
SOKÓŁ POLSKI—POLISH FALCON
APRIL 2011
PAGE 14
POLISH EASTER
Polish Easter Recipes
Whether you intend to gather for your annual family Święcone, held after Mass on Easter morning,
or a planning a community Święconka at your
parish hall or PolAm clubrooms, here are some traditional Easter treats worth considering. Some
have been simplified for the benefit of today’s convenience-minded PolAms. The festivities begin
with grace and the sharing of blessed Easter eggs.
EASTER RYEMEAL SOUP (żurek wielkanocny):
In pot combine 2 c diced smoked kielbasa, ham
and/or roast pork, 6-7 c water, 1 heaping T quickcooking rolled oats, 1 quartered onion and several
peppercorns. Simmer on low under cover 20 min..
Stir in 2 c liquid ryemeal sour* (żur - available at
Polish delis), and ¼ of a mushroom bouillon cube.
Bring to boil, reduce heat and simmer 10 min.
Thicken with 1 or more T flour if desired and simmer several more mins. Switch off heat, add 2
buds crushed garlic, 1 T prepared horseradish and
1 T marjoram. Stir and salt & pepper to taste.
Serve over hard-boiled eggs in bowls.
* If liquid ryemeal sour is not available, add 2 c
water mixed with 3-4 T vinegar.
WHITE EASTER BARSZCZ (bialy barszcz wielkanocny): Prepare like ryemeal soup (above) but omit
marjoram, mushroom cube and flour. Remove from
flame, Fork-blend 1 heaping T flour with 1 c sour
cream until smooth. Add 1 c hot stock 1 T at a time
to sour-cream mixture, fork-blending or whisking
until lump-free and stir mixture into soup pot. Return to heat and simmer 2-3 min just below boiling
point. Provide cubed farmer cheese, dried ryebread cubes and extra horseradish to be added by
guests as per their personal preference.
EGGS IN SAUCE (jaja w sosie): Arrange shelled,
whole or halved hard-cooked eggs on lettuce-line
platter and dress with a dollop of any of the following sauces:
** Sourcream sauce (sos śmietanowy): Fork-blend
3/4 c sour cream, 1/4 c mayonnaise, 1 t sharp
brown mustard and 2 t white vinegar;
** Mayonnaise sauce (sos majonezowy): Forkblend 3/4 c mayonnaise, 1/4 c sour cream, 1 t
sharp brown mustard and 2 t lemon juice;
**Mayo-sourcream sauce (sos śmietanowo-majonezowy): Fork-blend 1/2 c sour cream, 1/2 c
mayonnaise, 1 t sharp brown mustard and 1 t
lemon juice;
** Mustard sauce: Add 1 heaping T Polish-style
Sarepska or German-style Düsseldorfer mustard to
mayo-sourcream sauce (above);
** Horseradish sauce (sos chrzanowy): Add 1
heaping T prepared horseradish or more to sourcream sauce (above).
** Spring sauce (sos wiosenny): Combine 3/4 c
mixed chopped greens (chives, green onion, parsley, dill) and 5-6 coarsely grated radishes with 1 c
sourcream or mayonnaise sauce (above).
** Tartar sauce (sos tatarski): Combine 1 grated
onion, 2 chopped dill pickles, 5-6 pickled mushrooms and 1 t lemon juice with 1 c mayonnaise
sauce (above); add several dashes Tabasco and
salt & pepper to taste.
** Prepared horseradish (chrzan tarty): Top each
egg with a tiny dollop of prepared horseradish.
** Ćwikła (beet & horseradish): Top each egg with
a tiny dollop of prepared of beet-horseradish relish.
HOT STUFFED EGGS IN SHELLS (jaja faszerowane w skorupkach): Allow 1-2 eggs per guest.
Hold each cold, hard-cooked egg firmly against
cutting-board and tap it lengthwise with a heavy,
sharp, thin-bladed, non-serrated-edge knife. With
swift cutting motion cut through to cutting-board,
shell and all. With small spoon gently scoop out
yolk and white and side aside, taking care not to
break the shell. Carefully remove and discard and
loose, jagged shell fragments that adhere to eggs
or shell rim. Set shells aside. Simmer 2 finely
minced onions in 2 T butter until tender and
golden. Grind or chop eggs fine and combine with
onion. Add 2 heaping T finely chopped fresh dill, 1
heaping T finely chopped chives and salt & pepper
to taste. Mix ingredients well. Fill shells with mixture pressing it down very gently so as not the
damage them. Sprinkle tops generously with bread
crumbs, pressing them in gently. To serve, fry
stuffed eggs, open-side down in 2 T butter or margarine until a golden-brown crust forms on the bottom and top of shells are hot to the touch. Serve
immediately.
Easter Babka with “bukszpan” decoration
EGG SALAD (sałatka jajeczna): If you are not
planning to serve any of the egg dishes listed
above, this egg salad may be an option. In salad
bowl combine 3 med cold cooked potatoes, diced,
5-6 hard-cooked eggs, chopped, 4 -5 green onions
finely chopped, 6 radishes coarsely grated or finely
chopped, and 1-2 T finely chopped parsley and/or
dill. Salt & pepper to taste. Toss with enough mayonnaise sauce (above) to coat ingredients.
VEGETABLE SALAD (sałatka jarzynowa): In
salad bowl combine 1 qt cold, cooked, diced potatoes, 2 cans drained peas & carrots, 2 cans
drained navy beans, 4 diced dill pickles, 1 bunch
chopped green onions, 1 bunch diced radishes, 2 3 peeled, cored, diced apples and 4 - 6 diced hardcooked eggs. Sprinkle with juice of 1/2 a lemon.
Toss ingredients gently, season with salt & pepper,
garnish with 3 T chopped fresh parsley and lace
with just enough mayonnaise to thinly coat ingredients.
BEETROOT-HORSERADISH RELISH (ćwikła z
chrzanem): Scrub 4 large beets well but do not
peel. Bake in preheated 375° oven about 1 hr or
until fork-tender. Peel under cold running water.
When cool enough to handle, cut each beet into 4
By Robert Strybel
pieces and slice on hand-held grater or dice. Toss
with as many T prepared horseradish as needed to
get the potency desired. Taste mixture after each
addition. Sprinkle with 2 t salt, sweeten to taste
with a few T sugar, add 2 t bruised caraway and
1/2 c wine vinegar or cider vinegar or to taste.
Transfer to covered crockery or glass bowl and refrigerate up to a week before serving.
COLD-MEAT PLATTER (półmisek zimnych mięs):
On lettuce-lined round, oval or rectangular serving
platters artistically arrange any of the following
sliced cold meats (home-made or store bought):
boiled ham, baked ham, smoked pork loin (Canadian bacon,) kabanas (thin dry sausage), myśliwska, (hunter's sausage), krakowska (Kraków
sausage), smoked kiełbasa, baked fresh kiełbasa,
cold sliced roasts (pork loin, veal, beef, turkey),
boiled slab bacon, boiled beef tongue and/or
smoked turkey breast. Decorate platters with parsley sprigs, radish roses, pickled mushrooms and/or
spiced plums. An Easter egg may be placed in a
bed of greenery at the center or at one end of the
platter.
PLUM-HORSERADISH SAUCE (sos powidłowochrzanowy): Fork-blend a 300-gram (app. 10 oz)
jar of Łowicz brand Powidła (plum butter imported
from Poland) with juice of half a small lemon and a
heaping T prepared horseradish, more or less, depending on potency desired. A tangy accompaniment to ham and the other cold meats mentioned
above.
CRANBERRY-HORSERADISH SAUCE (sos żurawinowo-chrzanowy): Fork-blend a 300-gram
(app. 10 oz) jar of Łowicz brand Żurawina (cranberry sauce imported from Poland) with juice of
half a small lemon and a heaping T prepared
horseradish – more or less depending on potency
desired.
JELLIED PIGʼS FEET (galareta z nóżek, studzienina): Singe 4 split pig’s feet and 2 pork hocks over
flame to remove any remaining bristle. Scrub well
with sharp brush, rinse, place in pot, cover with
cold water and bring to boil. Simmer several min,
then pour off water. Add fresh cold water to cover
(2½ qts, more or less) and 1 T salt, bring to boil
once again and reduce heat. Skim off any scum
that forms at top. Add 6 peppercorns, 3 grains allspice and 1 bay leaf and cook on low heat 2 hr.
Add 1 portion soup greens (2 carrots, slice of celeriac, 1 leek, 1 small onion and 1 parsley root) and
cook another 2 hr or until meat falls away from
bone. Add 2-3 buds crushed garlic. Strain stock,
discarding vegetables and spices, but reserving
carrot. Remove the meat from bones, discard
bones and dice meat. Transfer meat to glass or
crockery pans, add the sliced or diced carrot and
drench with stock. Chill in fridge until set. Before
turning out, scrape off and discard the congealed
fat at top of containers and cut aspic into serving
squares. On the side, provide cruets of vinegar,
lemon juice, a 50-50 vinegar-lemon juice mixture or
prepared horseradish.
ROAST PORK LOIN (schab pieczony): Mince and
mash 2 cloves garlic into a paste with 1 t salt and
rub into 3 lb boneless pork loin. Place in roasting
pan, cover and let stand at room temp 2 hrs. Remove loin, dust with flour (through sieve) and
brown in hot fat on all sides to seal in juices. Place
loin in roaster fat side up on rack and sprinkle with
caraway seeds, pepper and marjoram. Roast uncovered at 450° 15 min, then reduce heat to 350°.
Add 1 c water to pan and baste occasionally with
drippings that form. Roast about 90 min or until liquid that comes out of meat when pricked is white,
not pinkish. Remove from oven and cool to room
continued on page 16
SOKÓŁ POLSKI—POLISH FALCON
APRIL 2011
PAGE 15
POLISH EASTER
My Favorite Polish Traditions
Dodie Piersielak
National Cultural Commissioner
Have you made plans for your Easter dinner yet? Do
you have the blessing of the food baskets in your parish?
No? Why not? You do not have to belong to a "POLISH"
parish to have this beautiful service. In Rochester, NY
we have one large Polish Parish, St. Stanislaus Kostka.
On Holy Saturday, there are two blessings because of
the number of people who attend. But there are four
parishes, not Polish, in the area that hold the blessing.
All it takes is taking the time to visit your pastor, tell
him about the blessing and ask if he would hold one.
Take another parishioner with you, numbers help.
Explain that the service would be open to all members of
the parish.
I would be happy to supply you with information. If
you are going the a Swieconka (the traditional blessing
of the food eaten on Easter
Sunday) blessing for the first
time and would like a flyer
with information on the food
etc., send me an email and I
will get one out in the mail to
you. The flyer is produced as a community service of the
Polish Falcons of America National Headquarters.
Czolem,
Druhna Dodie Piersielak
PFA Polish Cultural Commissioner
email: CZOLEM@AOL.COM
PHONE: 585-381-0091
Polish Easter Recipes
continued from page 15
temp. Refrigerate over night and slice when cold. Serve cold on your cold-meat
platter or as a hot entrée, using pan drippings as a gravy base
HOME-MADE KIEŁBASA (kiełbasa domowa): Coarsely grind 4.5 lbs pork
butts and combine with 1 lb ground raw hamburger. Re-grind 2/3 of the meat
and combine with the once-ground mixture. Sprinkle with 3 T salt and 1 t pepper, 3 buds crushed garlic and (optional) add 1 heaping T marjoram. Work by
hand, gradually adding 1/2 – 1 c cold water and continue working until it is
completely absorbed. Refrigerate over night covered in a thin layer. Next day,
rinse hog casings well and stuff with meat mixture, either by hand or using
meat-grinder with sausage attachment. Twist sausage into 12” links and tie
them with white twine. Hang up in cool place to air dry several hrs or overnight. To cook, (boil or bake), see below.
BEER-BAKED KIEŁBASA (biała kiełbasa pieczona w
piwie): Arrange fresh kiełbasa in a single layer in uncovered baking pan. Drench with a 12 oz bottle of beer
and add enough water to just cover. Bake in 350° oven.
Turn sausage over when half the liquid has evaporated. Scatter wafer-thin onion slices over top and sprinkle with caraway
seed. It is ready when all water evaporates and sausage begins to
sizzle.
EASTER BABKA (babka wielkanocna): Dissolve 1 package dry active yeast in 1/4 c very warm water and set aside. Cream 1/2 c
softened butter and 1/2 c sugar in large bowl. Beat well 4 egg
yolks with 1 t salt and mix into butter mixture. Stir in dissolved yeast. 1 t orange zest, 1 t lemon zest and mix well.
Add about 4 c and 1 c warm milk and mix well into a uniform soft dough. Stir in 1/4 c chopped blanched almonds
and 3/4 c golden raisins. Turn out onto floured bread-board,
adding just enough flour
to make a smooth elastic dough. Knead briefly until nice and
springy, roll into ball, transfer to greased bowl, and cover with
clean dish towel and let rise in warm place until doubled (about 2
hrs). Punch down lightly and arrange in buttered babka, brioche or Bundt pan.
Let rise again, covered, until doubled in bulk. Bake at 350° about 40 min or
until done (when a wooden pick comes out clean).
BREAD-MACHINE BABKA (babka maszynowa): Combine 2 large room-temp
eggs with 2/3 c warm milk at bottom of bread pan. Add 3 c white bread flour,
1-1/2 t salt, 2-1/2 T sugar, 1 t lemon zest and 1 t orange zest. Tap on counter
top to settle. Make well at center and add 1-1/2 t bread-machine yeast. Program machine for light setting. Add 1/4 c chopped almonds and 1/2 golden
raisins at knead cycle.
POLISH WHEEL CAKE (kołacz): Prepare dough as in Easter babka recipe
(above). When dough rises, roll out on floured board with rolling pin into two 1”
thick circles. Transfer to 2 round greased and flour-dusted cake pans, cover
with clean dish towel and let rise again in warm place. With a saucer make a
depression at the center of each dough round and fill it with Polish plum butter
(powidła). Other thick jams can also be used. Brush cakes with egg wash (1
raw egg beaten with 1 jigger water) and bake in preheated 350°F oven about
55 min or until wooden pick comes out clean.
EASTER CHEESE DESSERT (pascha/paska): Grind or force through sieve
twice 2-1/4 lbs farmer cheese. Separately beat 5 egg yolks with 1 heaped c
SOKÓŁ POLSKI—POLISH FALCON
sugar until fluffy. Stir in 1 c heavy (at least 30%) cream) and beat well. Place
over double boiler, mixing constantly until mixture thickens, but not too long or it
may curdle. Remove from heat and stir in 2 sticks soft butter and 1 t vanilla extract, stirring until absorbed. Add the ground or sieved farmer cheese, 1 c
chopped almonds and 1 c raisins, chopped dates and can
died orange rind. Mix well and transfer mixture to cheese cloth-lined
colander. Twist into a ball, cover with a dish weighted down with a
water-filled qt jar and refrigerate overnight over a bowl or pot to
catch the drippings. Next day
remove from cheesecloth, turn out on serving dish and decorate
with well-drained cherries from cherry preserves. Or, instead of
cherries, garnish with grated bitter-sweet chocolate.
CHEESECAKE (sernik): Sift 1½ c flour onto board and cut in ¼ lb
cold butter. Beat 4 eggs with 4 T confectioner’s sugar and add to
flour mixture. Sprinkle with 2 T milk and 2 t baking powder, quickly
work ingredients into a dough and chill in fridge 30 min. Meanwhile
grind or process 1½ lbs farmer cheese and blend together with
2 med cold, well-mashed potatoes. Cream ¾ c butter with 1 c
confectioner’s sugar. Add 1 t vanilla extract, continue beating,
gradually adding 5 egg yolks and cheese mixture a little at a
time. When fully blended, sprinkle with 3 T potato starch, add
1 c plumped raisins and 2 T finely chopped candied orange
rind. Mix ingredients and fold in 3 stiffly beaten eggs whites.
Roll out ⅔ of the dough ¼” thick to fit lightly greased pan. Top
with cheese filling and smooth the top. Roll remaining dough
into pencil-thick strands and arrange latticework on top of cheese.
Brush top with beaten egg and bake in preheated 350° oven about
50 min.
ALMOND MAZURKA (mazurek migdałowy): Cream 1-3/4 c
butter with 2/3 confectioner’s sugar until fluffy. Gradually stir
in 2- 1/3 c flour, 4 cold, ground hard-cooked egg yolks (add the
left over chopped whites to one of the above salads), 1 c finely
chopped, blanched almonds, 1 beaten raw egg and 1/8 t salt. Work ingredients into a dough by hand and chill in refrigerator 30 min. On lightly floured
board roll out into a rectangle no more than 3/4” high. Use flat of knife to even
out the sides. Transfer to lightly greased cookie sheet and bake in preheated
375° oven 40-45 min. or until a nice golden hue is obtained. When cooled, glaze
top and sides with home-made or store-bought chocolate or vanilla icing. If desired, write the word “Alleluja!” on the top with icing of a contrasting color and
decorate top with almond slices.
POLISH EGG CORDIAL (likier jajeczny/ajerkoniak): Beat 5 egg yolks with 1 c
sugar and 1 t vanilla extract until fluffy. Gradually add 1 c cold milk in a thin
stream, beating constantly, and finally add 1 c 190 proof grain alcohol* in a thin
stream, increasing mixer speed to high. After alcohol has been absorbed, beat
another min longer. Transfer to sterilized glass bottle or carafe, seal and refrigerate several days before serving.
* If 190% grain alcohol is not available, use 2 c 100 proof vodka, but the result
won’t be quite as good!
APRIL 2011
PAGE 16
MEMBER NEWS
Nest 725: Awards, Action and a Daughterʼs Thoughts
As Easter fast approaches with the reminder of the “Ultimate Sacrifice” made for us due to Gods’ unending grace and love, I thought it may be a good time to reflect upon the earthly sacrifices some have made
out of love for family, friends, community and our Nests.
Back in October and mentioned in December’s issue, the Polish League of American Veterans, USA –
Woodrow Wilson Chapter No. 11 Ladies Auxiliary honored Druhna Marian E. Hansen with their Polish American Heritage Award. Druhna Marian’s entire family was in attendance. Terry Jo Marker (TJ) reflected in her
own way about the “second family” that was the Polish Falcons of America Nest 725 for all those years as
written in her letter that was read during this extraordinary event. (Please see text below.)
It was Druhna Marian’s sacrifices and certainly her family’s sacrifices over her 41+ year history with the
Falcons that has provided for an incredible example of service to us all! And even more awards have followed!
With this in mind, it is with great pleasure Nest 725 announces a very special website dedicated to Marian E. Hansen!
By the time you read this or around April 6th, this website located at: http://marianhansen.pfanest725.org/
shall be up and running with stories, pictures and information on all that Marian has done and won over
these past 41+ years. We will also be encouraging and accepting “Marian stories” and pictures from those
all over the country who feel they would like to share. You shall be able to login and write of your own experiences with Druhna Marian and even upload pictures. Who knows, you may end up meeting others online
and reminisce about some of the very same stories.
For those who are yet technically challenged, we will be accepting, by regular mail, your “Marian Stories”
(even if they are handwritten) and any pictures you may find. We will be more than happy to include them
on the website! Please send them to: PFA Nest 725 c/o Webmaster Bill, 801 E. Clarke St., Milwaukee,
WI 53212.
Speaking of history, families and champions… you don’t want to miss next month’s Nest 725 article!
Czolem,
Druh William Bielicki (Webmaster Bill)
A Letter from
a Daughter
to Her Mother
What a lifetime of memories I have to remember my mother’s drive and love she
has carried all her life because of the
grandparents who she so adored from
Poland. If you have crossed my mother’s
path through the years you have either
embraced her passion and showmanship
and jumped on her bandwagon; or stood
T.J., Linda and Marian
back and shook your head. But, I hope at
least respected her mission. I, as her youngest daughter now 50, have lived her journey
and had my own frustrations and had moments of wanting to ring her neck! However, I
always knew her intentions were for the good of the children and Members of her Nest.
She has sacrificed time, energy and her own money to make and create everything she’s
done to be the biggest and brightest for all. She has stuck with and believed in a Nest
that has been on its deathbed through the years. She is driven, tuff, frustrating and can
be sweet or spicy to those who have worked with her all these years. She turned 77 September 1st, and still gives her all to the Nest she has been a part of most of my life. She
has earned and deserves so many thank-yous for all she has given of herself and done,
but never has expected or asked for!
I want my mother to know despite all her critics through the years we her family have
and always will be so very proud of her. I know my great grandparents would be even
prouder of all she has accomplished in her lifetime to honor the two people who helped
raise her and loved her so and made her so proud to be of Polish decent. She has made
a heart breaking decision to pack up her marbles and leave Nest 725 in the next two
years. We, her family want and need her more at this stage of her life, but we know a
light will dim in her heart to give it all up and walk away. Her future plans I hope will to, finally go fishing with me up north at my home, make more trips to New York to spend time
with her oldest daughter Deb-O, who is following her dream to work on Broadway. Being
a fulltime grandmother to Noah and Nicole and great grandmother to Evelyn and James.
All made a part of our family from her middle daughter Linda Krzywda. Last but not least
continue to care for and love my Candi, the newest Member I adopted 5 ½ years ago
from the Wisconsin Humane Society who loves her as Bosha!
We her family would like to thank everyone who has known and worked with her. We
wish all of you the best and success for the future of the Polish Falcons. To our mother
we adore and love you very much.
From your youngest daughter,
Ms. TJ Marker
SOKÓŁ POLSKI—POLISH FALCON
Nest 17 Members
Recognized
In keeping with the Polish tradition of "oplatek"
Nest 17 in Newark, NJ held its annual banquet celebration on January 16 at the Zjedoczenie Polakow w
Ameryce (ZPA) home in Perth Amby. As part of the
program, Nest President Walter Geslak presented
Outstanding Service Recognition plaques to Druh
Stanley Grabowy and Druh Stanley Borowski.
The affair began with Nest Members sharing the
oplatek and exchanging wishes of good health and
continued success in the upcoming year. Food for
the occasion was prepared by the in-house, awardwinning chef and was elegantly presented.
Following the dinner, President Geslak acknowledged the contributions of the two awardees to not
only the success of Nest 17, but to the Polish community as a whole. Druh Grabowy has been a PFA
Member since 1956 and is the recipient of the Star
of Merit and the Legion of Honor. Over the years, he
has held various positions in the Nest and has been
an untiring force for promoting the Polish cause.
Whether someone was seeking employment or
any other advise, Stanley has been the "go to guy."
Druh Borowski has been the long term "financial
shepherd" for the Nest Treasury. In addition, "Stas
and Stas," as they are admiringly called, were the
founding members of the Polish Cultural Foundation
in Clark, New Jersey. Both still serve the Foundation
on the Board of Trustees.
No affair at Nest 17 would be complete without
some story telling and a sing-along. We are fortunate to have the always willing and able Druh Geslak, our current President, who then led the
attendees in singing of Polish koledy. After many
"encores," the celebration then was complete and we
bid each other good night and returned home with
songs in our hearts.
I believe that it
is important to
acknowledge
when a Member
of the Polish Falcons of America
is recognized for
his or her service
to and involvement in the Polish community.
To that end,
Nest 17 is very
proud that one of
our Members,
Druh John Rutkowski
Druh John
Rutkowski, has been recognized as such. Druh John
is not only an active Member in our Nest, but he also
makes time to serve the Polish community with his
involvement in other Polish organizations. He is a
member of the Board of Directors of the Zjednoczenie Polakow w Ameryce and, in addition, he has been
elected President of the United Poles FCU.
In recognition of his Polish roots and service to
Polonia, Druh John was recently names to and accepted a position from New Jersey Governor Chris
Christie on the newly reactivated "New Jersey Ethnic
Advisory Council." The governor has pledged to listen to the "voice of the people" and this is the first
time that Poles will have a spokesman on the governor's council. We are very proud that "one of ours"
was chosen to represent the New Jersey Polish community.
Druh Walter Geslak
President,
Nest 17, Newark, NJ
APRIL 2011
PAGE 17
MEMBER NEWS
Solidarity
Statement Issued
The Kosciuszko Foundation and ACPC Affirm Their
Solidarity on Behalf of Polish-American Interests in
Washington, D.C.
Contact 716-677-0220 for more information.
Calendar
continued from page 9
and guests always welcome!
• Second Wednesday of
every month: Monthly
Nest Board of Directors
meeting at the club at 6:00
p.m.
• Every Thursday: Wing
Night from 4 - 8 p.m. 35
cent wings - or if you
prefer, order wings to take
home
• Every Friday: Fish &
Pierogi Dinner. • Every
Saturday: Karoake with D.
J. Benny 9 p.m. - 1 a.m.
Members and guests
welcome!
• Special Announcement: Our spacious
Banquet Room is available
to Members and nonmembers for events. For
inquiries or reservations,
Call Lisa at 790-4850 or
Mike at 323-5819.
Nest 652, Lansing, MI
• Meetings will continue
being held on the second
Thursday of the month at 7
p.m. Meeting Dates:
• April 14, May 12 - 7 p.m.
FPH; • Weekly - Mondays
- Polish Language Class
$5 per person, 6 p.m. FPH
• April Events:
• April 2 - Polish Home
Swieconka, 4 p.m. ; • 15 16 - Pierogi Making; 23 Easter Basket Blessing,
St. Mary Cathedral, 12
noon; • 26, 27, 28, 29
Pierogi making, 10 a.m.
• May Events: • 7 Pierogi Day; • 12 - 15,
Texas HoldEm. • September 1 - October 1 Pulaski Days, FPH.(FPH =
Federated Polish Home,
1030 West Hope Street,
Lansing.)
Nest 725, Milwaukee, WI
• Tiny Tots Class. (Focusing on basic stretching,
physical fitness and dance
routines) At Nest Hall.
Every Tuesday Ages 4 to 6
yrs. 5:30 - 6:30 p.m.
Regular Class: Ages 7 to
17 yrs. 6:00 - 8:0 p. m.
• Board Meetings - First
Wednesday of each month
(except July & August)
• April 5 - Skillz Day (with
Awards!) Nest Hall – 5:30
– 8:30 p.m.
SOKÓŁ POLSKI—POLISH FALCON
• April 9 - Nest 725 to attend the PFA District II plenary
Nest 827,Chicago, IL
• Meeting Dates: First
Tuesday of March, June,
September, October and
December. Archer Park,
49th & Kilbourne Streets,
11:30 a.m.
Nest 907, Cicero, IL
• Meetings are held once
a month except for July
and August. Contact President Dennis Kazmierowicz
at 708-485-5746 for dates
/ times • April 9 - District
II Blood Drive, 9:30 - 1:30
p.m. St. Mary’s Social
Center, 5000 W. 31st St.
Cicero. Doors open 6:30
p.m. Raffle: 7 p.m.• April
15 - Bunny Shoot Meat
Raffle, St. Mary’s Social
Center, Doors open 6:30
p.m. Raffle: 7 p.m. Featuring hams, ducks, praskys,
salami, bacon, kielbasa
and more!
Nest 972, Bay City, MI
• Spaghetti Dinners the
first Tuesday of each
month from 4 -7 p.m.
The Kosciuszko Foundation, Inc. and the American Council
for Polish Culture ("ACPC") are pleased to announce their joint
solidarity in support of the Kosciuszko Foundation's current and
future operation of the National Polish Center (the "Center") in
Washington, D.C.
The Center was first conceived at the annual convention of
the ACPC held in 1985 to serve as a national Polish-American
cultural center in the nation's capital. It was subsequently established in 1988 by the ACPC as a separate non-profit organization and in 1991 acquired its current property -- including a
historic townhouse in the Dupont Circle area of the nation's
capital, as well as pieces of artwork and other items of Polish
and Polish-American cultural significance -- with the help of the
ACPC's fundraising efforts.
As of January 2010, the Kosciuszko Foundation acquired the
Center, which is now operated as the foundation's Washington,
D.C. office. The Kosciuszko Foundation, a non-profit established in 1925, promotes educational and cultural exchanges
between Poland and United States and awards up to one million dollars annually in scholarships to Poles and Polish Americans.
The ACPC is a national non-profit, charitable, cultural and educational organization that serves as a network and body of national leadership among affiliated Polish-American cultural
organizations throughout the United States. Founded in 1948,
the Council represents the interests of some 21 affiliated organizations in 15 states and the District of Columbia. Commenting
on this important development, ACPC President Debbie Majka
said, "The Kosciuszko Foundation's absorption of the Center
will hopefully ensure its long-term financial viability."
Kosciuszko Foundation President and Executive Director
Alex Storozynski, said, "Towards that goal, we held a fundraising dinner at the Polish Embassy in October and the proceeds
were dedicated to the Center's operating costs. The Center
provides the Polish community with a foothold in our nation's
capital, and I urge all Polish Americans to join the Kosciuszko
Foundation and to support the Center to help promote Polonia's
interests."
Since early this year, the ACPC and Kosciuszko Foundation
have taken steps to maximize the use of the Foundation's new
Washington office for the benefit of the Polish-American community. This past summer, the Kosciuszko Foundation hosted
the ACPC National Youth Conference at its Washington facility,
and the two organizations have expressed their desire to continue to collaborate in this manner, as well as to look for other
opportunities to do so.
Storozynski said, "The ACPC and its affiliates play an important role in preserving Polish culture in our communities across
the country. The Center provides a home base for Polonia in
Washington, and the ACPC's youth conference is an important
program that teaches our youth about the American political
process and international affairs."
To learn more about the Kosciuszko Foundation, visit
http://www.thekf.org/ and to learn more about the ACPC
http://www.polishcultureacpc.org/
APRIL 2011 PAGE 18
MEMBER NEWS
Falcon Nest 88 Announces
Scholarship Winners
By: Diane L. Mechlinski
A college education today is extremely vital and serves as an integral gateway to the opportunities needed for a chance at future successful living. It also stimulates and encourages students to think,
question and explore new ideas, thereby allowing for additional growth
and development, ultimately providing college graduates with that
edge needed in today’s competitive job market.
Falcon Nest 88 in New Britain understands and supports the educational needs of its members as well as its members’ children and
grandchildren. It therefore promotes and holds an annual scholarship
dinner/dance which provides eligible students with scholarships toward
furthering their education. Students need to work very hard today to
keep up with the world’s demanding challenges. Financial assistance
toward today’s high cost of higher education is a necessity, which is
why Nest 88 members continue to uphold their longstanding tradition
of the scholarship event.
This year’s scholarship dinner/dance was recently held and proved
successful in raising funds to provide three well-deserving students
with $500 scholarships each. The scholarships were awarded to the
following:
James Blaszko of Vernon, a first semester
freshman at Emerson College. Blaszko graduated in June 2010 from Rockville High School
and also attended the Greater Hartford Academy
of the Arts. He ranked 3rd from his class of 282
members. Blaszko is currently an Acting major,
studying Theatre at Emerson College in Boston,
the nation’s only 4-year college devoted exclusively to the study of communication and the
performing arts. “While at the Greater Hartford
Academy of the Arts, I did musicals, plays and opera,” Blaszko said.
“Since I’m a freshman at Emerson now, I have to wait a while before I
can actually be in their productions. But, Emerson is such a great
school. It’s opening me up to music, dance and so many creative outlets. I’m learning more about different aspects of theatre – learning
about the whole process.”
Monika Chudy of New Britain, was the second scholarship recipient. A student at Tunxis
Community College since the Fall of 2009,
Chudy aspires toward a career in teaching.
Her father, Michal Chudy, is an active member with the Falcon Nest 88 and the family
was most pleased with their daughter receiving the scholarship. The family, along with a
group of Monika’s friends, attended the dinner/dance honoring her accomplishments.
Michael Sadej of Burlington began his college studies at the University of CT this past
fall and was the third recipient of the Falcon
Nest 88 scholarships for 2010. Upon graduating from Lewis S. Mills High School in June
2010, Sadej’s rank was 23 in his class of 206
members. His grades were outstanding in
high school and his attempts to maintain similar standing at UCONN is well underway.
SOKÓŁ POLSKI—POLISH FALCON
Nest 118 Report
BE OPEN TO
WHAT APRIL BRINGS
April is from the Latin--'to open'.
Just think, the flora of our gardens
begin to show its many colors. Baseball's opening day in
many of our Polish Falcon cities gives hope for a successful
season. April (Kwiecien) also gives us the the last weeks of
Lent. The time our Christian families need to prepare for
Holy Week, starting Palm Sunday — April 17. Let us open
our minds, our Bibles to the stories of the last days of our
Savior. Become an active part of the Maundy Thursday services; be humbled as the priest washes the feet of the 'parish
Apostles'. Follow the final footsteps of the Nazarene during
the enactments and readings of the Stations of the Cross on
Good Friday. Holy Saturday is a day of reflection, repentance
and reconciliation. Take the time to carry on the Polish traditions to get the Easter basket of the Swienconka foods
blessed at your Catholic Church.
As evening falls, we prepare for baptismal renewal at the
Mass to Honor the Resurrection of Our Lord-- be it at Midnight services or Easter Sunday morn. As we sing, 'Alleluia,
He is Risen', let us open up our lives and accept Jesus as our
anchor. Love one another, do deeds of kindness in His remembrance.
From my family and from PFA Nest 118 to all Falcons,
may we all be blessed throughout the Eastertide; may the
Risen Lord be in all we do.
The early days of April herald the newly arrived spring.
They also give notice to the members
of Nest 118 of their annual 'Lottery Night' fundraiser on Saturday, April 9 at 6:30 p.m. at the Prince of Peace Parish
Center. The $25 ticket donation gives those attending a
great meal, refreshments and a chance to win during the
twenty drawings, the many Chinese auction baskets and
other games of chance. Ticket sales and profits are shared
with the St. Adalbert Alumni Association. For reservations to
support this Nest 118 event, please contact Nancy MarcusonCapozoli at 412-481-0681 by April 7.
Just two days after the fundraiser, the Nest 18 monthly
meeting will be held on Monday, April 11 at the Nest 8 location. Please consider attending as we will be celebrating our
'Swienconka' . Please bring your favorite Lenten or Easter
menu item to share after the meeting's business.
Bring a Falcon friend!
In my search of the history of April, I came across an annual designation for April 22-- In God We Trust Day. Our
America uses it on its coins. I was asked months back by
Druhna Jan Merzwieler of PFA Nest 45, St. Louis to carry on
that phrase, and I do, as we all should daily.
Let me hear about your Lenten/Easter acts of kindness,
your traditions of Swienconka
at nancycap61@yahoo.com or call 412-481-0681.
I bid you peace and as always, In God we trust!!
God bless and Czolem,
Nancy Marcuson-Capozoli
Vice-President, PFA Nest #118/
Nest Correspondent
APRIL 2011 PAGE 19
POL-AM NEWS
In Loving Memory
Druh John Nowotarski, Sr.
It is with great sadness that we note the passing of Druh John
Nowotarski, Sr. of Cumru Township, Pennsylvania on January 22, 2011.
Druh John served as a Director of the Polish Falcons Alliance of Berks
County, Nest 964, Reading, Pennsylvania for six years and served as a
National Director of the PFA out of the National Headquarters in Pittsburgh for eight years. Druh John was 88 years of age and served in
World War II as a master sergeant in Europe, the Pacific and Africa. He
retired in 1987 from Carpenter Technology Corp. after 31 years of service.
Druh was a life member of the Oakbrook Volunteer Fire Company and
a member of many community service organizations, including serving
as president of the Kenhorst Boosters' Club. He was honored with the
Polish American Citizen Award in 1993 and the Outstanding Berks
County Clubman Award in 2005. He also served as an advisor for the
Polka Squires Dance Group.
Druh John is survived by his loving wife Helen (Michalowski) whom
he married in 1946; daughter Marian, wife of Carl H. Klopp; son John V.
Nowotarski Jr. and four grandsons, one great granddaughter and three
sisters. Druh John's contributions to his community, his devotion to his
family and respect for his heritage will be sadly missed.
Pilgrimage to Rome for the Beatification
of Pope John Paul II
Sponsored by the Polish Apostolate Committee under the spiritual
leadership of Adam Cardinal Maida and Msgr. Anthony Czarnecki.
April 28 - May 4, 2011
All inclusive cost from Boston: $2,650.
Rates from other cities are available upon request.
Space is extremely limited.
Tour includes:
• Round trip air transportation to Rome
• 5 nights accommodations in 4 star Hotel Leonardo Da Vinci
• Two meals daily
• Transportation in Italy by deluxe motor coach
• Participation in the Beatification Ceremonies in Rome
• Sightseeing tours with professional guides
• Optional excursion to Assisi
For further information call 1-800-388-0988.
SOKÓŁ POLSKI—POLISH FALCON
Public Television to Premiere Film
on Irena Sendler
National Airing May 1
IRENA SENDLER In The Name of Their Mothers is a
documentary film about Polish heroine Irena Sendler
and her wartime conspiracy of women who outfoxed the
Nazis and saved the lives of thousands of Jewish children. Sendler was a 29-year-old social worker when
Nazi Germany invaded Poland. After Warsaw's Jews
were imprisoned behind the ghetto walls without food or
medicine, Sendler and those she most trusted smuggled
aid in and began smuggling orphans out - hiding them in
convents, orphanages and private homes in the city and
the Polish countryside. Before the Nazis burned the
ghetto to the ground, they rescued more than 2,500 children.
Irena Sendler was eventually captured by the
Gestapo, imprisoned and tortured after refusing to divulge the identities of her co-workers. On the way to her
execution, she escaped thanks to friends who managed
to bribe a guard at the last moment. Irena and her coconspirators were silenced by the Communists who
came to power after the Nazis. And they were afraid to
speak out for many decades afterwards.
Now at last, their story can be told. IRENA SENDLER
In The Name of Their Mothers features the last in-depth
interview with Sendler before her death at the age of 98.
Rare archival footage, family photographs and evocative
re-creations shot in Warsaw bring the lives of the hidden
Jewish children, Sendler and her co-workers into dramatic focus. The film is testament to the power of moral
courage in the darkest of times.
"This documentary is a stirring tribute to the courage
and cunning of a group of women who saved lives at the
risk of losing their own," states John Boland, KQED
President and CEO. "We thought there was no better
time to premiere this heretofore unknown story than on
National Holocaust Remembrance Day. KQED is honored to present IRENA SENDLER In the Name of Their
Mothers to our national PBS audience."
Lead underwriters of the PBS National Broadcast include Taube Philanthropies and the Koret Foundation,
The Williams Family Trust, the Foundation for Polish
German Collaboration, the Polish American artist, Rafal
Olbinski, the Legion of Young Polish Women, and many
more organizations and individuals. A complete list of
funders is available from PBS.
What you can do:
Check your local PBS listings for the airing of this
special documentary and encourage your friends,
family and Nest Members to tune-in. If it is not
being shown, contact your local PBS affiliate directly
and encourage them to air this important film.
APRIL 2011
PAGE 20
POL-AM NEWS
FORE the Charitable
Foundation Golf Tournament
The Polish Falcons of America will be hosting the FORE the Charitable
Foundation Golf Tournament. The Tournament will be held at Scenic Valley
Golf Course in Finleyville, PA on
Friday, June 24, with a 9:00 a.m. shot gun start. Cost per golfer is $100 which
includes golf with a cart, a continental breakfast, hot dog and drink at the turn,
a steak and chicken dinner complete with homemade desserts and an open
bar following golf.
The proceeds from this tournament will benefit the Charitable Foundation of the Polish American Congress. The Polish American Congress Charitable Foundation is a 501 (c) (3) tax exempt organization
founded in Chicago in July, 1971 for the purpose of assisting the Polish American community through educational and humanitarian activities. The PACCF provides medical supplies and equipment to Poland's hospitals, rehabilitation centers, orphanages and the elderly. It also sponsors other health care programs
including neonatal training.
Whether a pro on the links or a hacker, please join us for a day of fraternalism and fun. Just think, by
then the sun will be shining, flowers will be in bloom, we’ll all be sporting tans. Can you think of a better way
to spend a Friday?
If interested in joining us for golf, making a donation, or volunteering to help at the course, please contact Druhna Trish at vptrish@polishfalcons.org or Druhna Chris at cpuskar@polishfalcons. Both can be
reached by calling 1-800-535-2071 or 412-922-2244.
Czołem!
Duhna Trish Del Busse
Top photo: 2010 golfers from 41, New Kensington,
PA Bill Larko, Jim Larko and Jeff Shields. Bottom
National First Vice President
photo: Volunteers Rochelle Bolind and Cookie Galluze helped make the 2010 tournament successful.
Nest 36 Anniversary
continued from page 12
the endeavors of the other Nests in our District.
Several of the Recipients in the Achievement category of the Starzynski Scholarship
Program are Nest 36 Members. Nest 36 Members have also received Mary Kus and
Gorecki grants.
With 45 children currently registered in the Nest 36 gym class, Nest 36 continues to
be one of the largest contingents at all youth events. The strength of Nest 36 is a result
of the dedication, commitment, support, and concern of Members from Nests 36, 107,
212, 767 and 882. Their love of this organization and club is what keeps us going.
State Representative Linda Gentile offered congratulatory words and thanked us for
our involvement within the community. Druh Peter Danielczuk presented a proclamation from the Jim Della Volpe, the Mayor of Ansonia. Saturday, January 15 was Polish
Falcons of America, Nest 36 Day in Ansonia.
National Director, John Kowarik and District V President, Phil Zambrello wished our
Nest continued success for the future. Our National President then gave a speech
while one of our younger Members ran in front of him several times. It worked out very
well because President Kuzma incorporated this little guy into his speech. It was one of
the best speeches our President has ever given.
Also in attendance was District V Representative to the Legion of Honor Commandery, Druhna Frances Tracz, Mary Mazur (one of the girls at age 98) and May
Rabovsky (our oldest active Member at age 102!). Members from Nest 65-Union City,
Nests 88 & 811-New Britain, Nest 208-Derby, Nest 307-Southington, Nest 519-Middletown, Nest 580-Pittsfield, MA (Druhna Stella Coolbroth came all that way by herself!)
joined us for the evening.
The newly elected Officers were sworn in by President Kuzma: President Joseph
Choromanski: First Vice President Jeremiah Kennedy; Second Vice President Patricia
Del Busse; Treasurer/Financial Secretary Ilene Kennedy; Recording Secretary Frederick Sherwood; Instructress Karyn Choromanski and Instructor Darryl Hine. Directors:
Joanne Brejwo, Casey Brejwo, Steve Dombroski, Wendi Kowarik, John Machowski,
Sr., Scott Simenson and Tony Ruggiero.
Awards were then presented by President Kuzma and Vice President Del Busse.
The following received 25 year awards-Joanne Brejwo, Judy Bodyk, Pola Choromanski, Katie Choromanski, Karyn Choromanski, Karen Danielczuk, Bill Hennesy, Jr., Ilene
Kennedy, and Dave Steeves. Vice President Jeremiah Kennedy read the awards as
President Joe Choromanski and Vice President Trish Del Busse presented the Star of
Merit awards to Bronze: Boguslawa Larracuente, Silver: Thomas Maziuk, Betsy Hine,
and Karyn Choromanski.
Presidents Kuzma and Choromanski presented the Gold Star of Merit to Vice President, Trish Del Busse. Funny how even though I knew I was getting this I was so excited and pleased to receive my award.
Legion of Honor awardees were read by President Choromanki and presented by
Druh Kuzma and Commandery Member Druhna Tracz. All Legion of Honor Members
stood around the podium as the following were escorted to receive their awards. James
Corneau received his Bronze, Jeremiah Kennedy and Henry Bodyk received their Silver and Father and Son, Walter C. and Walter J. Pawlak were elevated to Gold status.
This was a very enjoyable evening and we thank all who came and joined us.
SOKÓŁ POLSKI—POLISH FALCON
Czolem!
Druhna Trish
Polish
polish your
m, n, f denotes male, female, neuter
phonetic ch sounds like the ch in loch
phonetic ai sounds like eye
ALTERNATIVE
MEDICINE
Prepared by the
Polonia News Network
NOTE: The accent is on the next to
the last syllable which is in bold.
akupunktura
(ah-kuh-puhn-KTUH-rah) f
acupuncture
aromoterapia (ah-roh-moh-teh-RAH-pyah) f
aromatherapy
zielarstwo
(zheh-LAHR-stfoh) n
herbal medicine
homeopatia
(hoh-meh-oh-PAH-tyah) f
homeopathy
masaż (MAH-sahsh) m
medytacja
meditation
massage
(meh-dih-TAH-tsyah) f
naturopatia
(nah-tuh-roh-PAH-tyah) f
naturopathy
refleksologia
reflexology
joga
(reh-fleh-ksoh-LOH-gyah) f
(YOH-gah) f yoga
holistyczne (hole-is-TYCH-neh) adj. holistic
chiropraktyka (hero-prahk-TEE-kah) f chiropractics
aromaterapii (ah-roe-mah-ter-AH-pee) m
aroma therapy
APRIL 2011
PAGE 21
POL-AM NEWS
A Polka Celebration
By Peter Danielczuk
Nest 36, Southwestern Conn.
Larry Chesky, who was inducted into the InterI was recently doing a DJ job for a birthday
national Polka Association's Hall of Fame in
party here in CT and met the late Polka great
1985, passed away earlier this year after sufferJoe Rock's sister in law. Many people wanted to
ing a heart attack at the age of 77. Chesky, who
know if that was his real last name. She told me
headed the Holyoke, MA based Rex Records,
that when his parents come from Poland, their
popularized the Eastern polka style and was a
last name was Rak. When that went through
popular fixture at Mountain Park in Holyoke, but
Ellis Island and said their name the official wrote
his musical influence extended far beyond. The
down Rock, they way it sounded to them.
Polka Hall of Famer, who picked up his first acA new YouTube channel is in the works, dedcordion at the age of 6, formed his first band,
icated entirely to polka music and polka videos.
The Polka Dots, at the age of 12. Within a few
The producer is working in part with "Polka Time
years, he was signed to Musico Records, beginWith Stas" to take DVDs and tapes of polka
ning a recording career that would include
bands and puts them on the Internet for every"Broadway Hits, Polka Style" and "Polka Wonone to enjoy. With over 195 different polka
derland." In addition to heading
Rex Records, Chesky worked to
promote Polish culture and heritage
through Modern Mail International,
Don't forget Dyngus Day is Monday April 25, 2011.
a company he formed in 1974.
Buffalo, NY is the Dyngus Day Capital. One of the
Chesky had a close working relagreatest and ethnic spectaculars and displays in
tionship with Gene Wisniewski, who
American is their annual Dyngus Day Parade which
formed Dala Records and Al Soyka,
starts at 5:00 PM at the Broadway Market and makes
who formed Glo Records. Over
its way through the streets of the city's Historic Polonia
many years these three pioneer
District. For information on the 2011 Dyngus Day
Polka recording companies worked
Buffalo Festival, Halls, Schedules of Bands and Events
together for promotion and benefit
go to www.dyngusdaybuffalo.com. Also on Dyngus
of the Polka industry. His personal
Day a new Polka band will making its debut at the Brisrecordings totaled well over 1,000,
tol Polish American Citizens Club in Bristol, CT. "Back
including 100 albums.
On Track" is the new band started by Marty Swiatek.
Over the years, he performed on
For more information call Gary at 860-525-1944. The
TV and radio . Although Larry had
Rich Bobinski Orchestra will be playing on Dyngus Day
a busy career, he found a time for a
at St. Joseph's Polish Society in Colchester, CT. For
very rewarding personal life.
more information call the club at 860-537-2550.
Chesky and his wife Pat, had four
daughters, Laura, Linda, Vickie,
and Valerie. Multiple Grammy
Award winner Jimmy Sturr stated, "I modeled
bands in the offing, there are currently some
my band after his Eastern style." Sturr recalled
Dick Pillar and Jan Lewan videos on line. Visit
driving at the age of 16 to Chesky's home in
the channel at www.yourtube.com/polkavideos1.
Holyoke to see if he could land a spot on Rex
The Polish Connection, one of Wisconsin's
Records, the music founded by Chesky's parpopular bands, has released its new CD, "Reents, Joe and Wanda. Polka star Lenny Gomember This" which includes a eight-tune medmulka of Ludlow, MA remembered Chesky as a
ley tribute to Eddie Blazonczyk Sr. The CD also
"pioneer who changed and enhanced the image
features a waltz, an oberek and some good
of polka to the Big Band sound." He described
honky polkas for an extra added mix. For more
the late polka great as being both personable
information about the Polish Connection visit the
and a polished performer. Chesky was a true
band's website at www.polishconnection.com.
gentleman and will be missed by us all.
Mike Matousek has informed that the Boys
Danny Mateja & the Downtown Sound, who
who recorded and performed in the 90's and
has quickly become one of the nation's popular
who have recently reunited for some performbands, won the Best Polka Entertainers of 2010
ances will go into rehearsals in April for a brand
category in the 30th Anniversary of Chicago
new recording in May. We look forward to what
Music Awards. They were up against some of
looks like to be a great recording.
the city's top bands, so it was quite an honor for
The Bands for the Annual Festival of the
them to come up the winner. The Downtown
United States Polka Association (USPA) which
Sound, by the way, will make its first appearwill be held at the DoubleTree Hotel in Indeance at Pulaski Polka Days in Wisconsin later
pendence, OH (Cleveland South) from May 27this year.
29, 2011(Memorial Day weekend) have been
Big Joe Siedlik does not capitulate easy. You
announced. They include Polka Family, Lenny
can watch a one-hour "Big Joe Polka Show"
Gomulka & Chicago Push, Squeeze Box, Matt
with bands taped in New York, Nebraska, MinRosinski's All Star Band, Eddie Blazonczyk's
nesota and Texas anytime you wish at
Versatones, The Knewz, Dennis Polisky & The
www.polkacatalog.com by clicking "Special
Mastro's Men, Full Circle, Trel-Tones, Polks
Offer." Reportedly, Big Joe has over 100 hours
Country Musicians, DynaBrass and The Brass
of polka music that has never been broadcast
Connection Reunion. A jam session is also
on TV.
scheduled.
Śmingus - Dyngus
Jimmy K & Ethnic Jazz will also do the Polka
Mass. For more information you can contact
Barb at 440-886-6157.
The International Polka Association is proud
to present a unique and entertaining polka
recording. It represents the combined efforts
and co-operation of participating record manufacturers, performers, composers and publishes.
The IPA has re-release thier 1975 Album 25 Famous Polka Hits on CD. Bands included on the
CD are: Ampol Aires. Ray Budzilek, Marion
Lush, Pala Brothers, Eddie Blazonczyk's Versatones, Eddie Zimea, Frank Wojnarowski, Joe
Pat, Mattie Madura, Golden Stars, Hi Notes, Li'l
Richard, Frank Yankovic and more. The CD is
just $17.00 each which includes shipping and
handling. You can send a check or money order
to IPA CD Sales, 4608 S. Archer Ave. Chicago,
IL 60632.
The 5th Annual Memorial "Gift of Life" Dance
in honor of Lisa Marie Biskup will take place on
Saturday April 30, 2011 at the PRCU Hall in
Wyandotte, MI. Bands featured this year include Lenny Gomulka & Chicago Push and The
Legendary Brass which includes the former musicians of the The New Brass for this one time
appearance. Band members of the Brass performing include, Mitch Biskup, Rich Bernier,
Steve Dudas, Ed "Weasel" Wolinski, Steve
Dudas Jr., Nick Nidoh and Cory Nidoh. Admission is just $19.00 and kids under 13 are free.
Music from 6:30 PM to !2 Midnight. All proceeds
are for the "Lisa Biskup Organ And Tissue
Donor Foundation." For more information Ron
or Sue Biskup at 810-588-6266.
A testimonial and dinner dance in honor of
Andy and Steve Fenus, celebrating 55 years
with the Trel Tones Band will take place on Sunday May 22, 2011 at the Holiday Inn/Meadowlands, 340 Race Track Rd, Washington, PA.
Band performing include The Trel Tones,
Stephanie, Lenny Gomulka & Chicago Push and
Ray Jay & The Carousels. For more information
you can contact Judy Stringhill at 724-929-6019.
Please make your plans now to celebrate the
43rd Annual International Polka Festival from
August 4th to August 7, 2011 at the DoubleTree
Hotel, Cleveland South, 6200 Quarry Lane, Independence, OH. The Annual IPA Polka Music
Hall of Fame Banquet will also take place on
Saturday, August 6, 2011. Please contact Linda
Niewierowski at 773-489-3987 with questions
for tickers to this event. Tickets are only $35.00
per person and advance reservations only. For
rooms contact the DoubleTree directly at 216447-1300. Room reservations must be made by
July 21, 2011. Make sure you mention you are
attending the IPA Festival. Room rate will be
$95.00 plus tax per night which includes breakfast for 2 in Shula's Restaurant.
The 14th Annual Adirondack Polka Festival
will be held on Memorial Day Weekend, Saturday and Sunday May 28th and 29th in beautiful
Old Forge, New York. This great event, sponsored by the Central Adirondack Association
and hosted by Polka Promoter Dave Sychtysz,
continued on page 23
SOKÓŁ POLSKI—POLISH FALCON
APRIL 2011 PAGE 22
FALCON NEWS
Chaplain’s Corner
Nest 163 Christmas Party
By Rev. Canon Joseph Sredzinski
PFA National Chaplain
Rezurekcja - New Life
Several weeks ago we began a journey in spiritual development and workout with the six
weeks of Lent or Post Swiety. On Ash Wednesday, we were marked, reminding us that we
are dust and unto dust we shall return. This may be a shocking statement to some; while to
others a religious reality. We were encouraged to do much needed Penance for our offenses
against God and our neighbor. We were encouraged to
FAST, to PRAY and to GIVE ALMS. All this is required
to make a needed change of heart and a cleansing of
our immortal souls. We had - and still have - opportunities to participate in extra holy masses, in Stations of the
Cross and in Adoration. We can and should fast to seriously abstain and control our sense appetites. We are
also to be extra generous in our contributions, for, as
Scripture tells us, "Charity covers a multitude of sins."
All of the above along with Holy Week leads to a solemn
celebration - the Resurrection of the Lord. Jesus' rising
from the dean is his supreme act of divine power on
earth and gives you and me much needed hope. For,
despite all the negativism swirling around us and the
very real temptations of the evil one, we have hope in
Jesus; especially through his Triumph over death.
We, all Polish Falcon Members, should seriously reflect on this event in the life of our Blessed
Lord and realize how it affects us both here on earth and unto eternity. Jesus proved beyond
any doubt, HE is GOD, HE has power over evil and over death. He is truly LIFE. And we, as
His people, take consolation and encouragement in HIM and in HIS words and works. That is
why Easter takes on such significance and ALLELUJA has deep meaning.
While I extend my best wishes, I likewise extend my priestly blessing for a Faith-filled and Joyful Easter.
Podczas wielkiego Postu, kosciol nas zachecil do odnowy i do lepszego zycia duchownego.
Byl Post, Byly Modlity i, takze, Jamuzna, a teraz rodowac mozemy poniewaz i powstal z grobu
nasz Zbawiciel - Jezus Chrystus. Niechaj zbrzmi ALLELUJA i niechaj kazda dusza sie gleboko cieszy. Prawdizwie Zmartchwstal Jezus i dal nam Nowe Zycie. Zycze wam WESOLEGO
ALLELUJA!
z Panem Bogiem i Czolem
Father Joseph
Mark your calendars now....
Two Important Falcon Events
August 26 - 7 p.m. Third Annual Tribute to Our Lady of Czestochowa, St. Paul's
Cathedral, Pittsburgh PA. Bishop David Zubik will be officiating at the mass.
September 24 - 25 Annual Two-Day Pilgrimage from Pittsburgh, PA to the National
Shrine of our Lady of Czestochowa, Doylestown, PA for the "Polish Falcon Day of Prayer."
For information on these activities, please contact PFA National Headquarters
at 412-922-2244.
SOKÓŁ POLSKI—POLISH FALCON
Polish Falcons Nest 163 in Mocanaugua, PA, celebrated
their second annual Christmas party, on December 18.
The children and their families enjoyed the celebration.
We would like to take this opportunity to thank the members of the Falcons and the neighboring businesses for donating items for the Chinese Auction. Everyone's
participation made the party a huge success. This photo is
an image of Paul Kogoy and Leah Houseknecht enjoying
the festivities.
Polka Pete
continued from page 22
will be bigger and better this year! New this year is a
lakeside "Welcome Party" featuring New Direction from
Buffalo. The music continues all weekend featuring Dave
Walter and Frankie Liszka and "Old School", Jeff Mleczko
and the "DynaBrass, "Henny and the Versa J's" and "The
Polka Family Band'. The festival is held at the spacious
Hiltebrant Recreation Center featuring a huge dance floor
and plenty of free parking. Polish and American food and
all legal beverages will be available. For more information
you can contact Dave Sychtysz at 315-699-1708.
Congratulations to Mike Suratt and the Continentals for
receiving a 2010 "Wammie" award from the Washington
D.C. Area Music Association. Their current recording is a
great double CD entitled "Polka World".
Eddie Blazonczyk's Versatones, led by Eddie Blazonczyk Jr. will appear at the Pulaski Polka Days to be held
July 21-24 2011 in Pulaski, WI, where there will be a tribute to Eddie Sr. Travel for Eddie Sr. is difficult, so it is uncertain if he will attend, but his music, arguably the most
popular in the history of the polka field, will certainly be
very much present.
Finally, for the first time in the thirteen years that the
Freddy K Jr. Scholarship has been bestowed, there has
been a tie. Voting was extremely close between all five
applicants, but the points given by the judges ended in a
tie between Kassandre Dardinski of Saugus, MA and
Anita Marie Thomas of Balto, Maryland. Each one has received a check for $1,000. The Freddy K Jr. Scholarship
Committee is now accepting requests for applications for
the 2011 Scholarship Award. Applicants must be high
school seniors who have been accepted to an accredited
college and play a musical instrument. Anyone who is interested in applying for the scholarship award can contact
The Freddie K Jr. Scholarship Fund at 50 Totten Drive,
Bridgewater, NJ 08807.
Until next time, God bless and a very Happy and
Blessed Easter from my wife Grazyna and I. Remember
we are all one family, all one big polka family. God Bless
Poland and God Bless America!
Druh Peter
APRIL 2011
PAGE 23
SOKÓŁ POLSKI
Periodicals Postage
POLISH FALCON
April 2011
A Polish Easter - see page 14
WWW.POLISHFALCONS.ORG
No. 3
Paid In Pittsburgh,
Pennsylvania 500-640