Eastern Area Merger Information Session District M.M. Hodza`s

(USPS 500-660)
MAY 9, 2013
PUBLICATION FOSTERING FRATERNAL, CULTURAL &
PHYSICAL EDUCATION ACTIVITIES SINCE JULY 14, 1905
Entered as Second-Class Matter, February 7, 1980 at East Orange, New Jersey under the act of August 24, 1912, provided in Sec. 1103, Act of October 3, 1918 authorized July 3, 1918
District M.M. Hodza’s
Annual Competition
Eastern Area Merger
Information Session
Lodge 32 Boonton, N.J., will host an information
session regarding the potential merger of Sokol
USA with GBU Financial Life. All Sokol members,
Lodge and District officers are welcome and
encouraged to attend.
Sunday, May 19, 2013
1:00 PM
Boonton Sokol Hall
301 Pine Street, Boonton, NJ
Please come with an open mind and all your
questions.
Kindly RSVP to:
John Walek
Eric Skovronek
839 Tabor Road
eskov@optonline.net
Morris Plains, NJ 07950
973-727-3531
973-538-2817
It has become a tradition to
build pyramids with all the
participants. More photos
and results on Pages 4 & 5.
On March 23, 2013, District M.M. Hodza displayed an
impressive start to its competition season. Gymnasts from Central
Jersey Lodge 12 and Boonton Lodge 32 filled the Boonton Sokol
Hall with their Sokol spirit and pride.
This year, instead of holding a traditional competition for the
males, the District decided to use the day for exhibition purposes.
Sokol adopts the routines developed by USAG, and the boys’
routines just changed during the 2012-2013 year. The male
gymnasts performed their routines to the delight of the audience,
and the coaches provided feedback after each routine. The
participants from Boonton were Brian Cabana, Ben Monrad, Joe
Mongiovi, James Eyler, Paul Lozaw, Preston Haney and Davis
Zung. The participants from Central Jersey were John Koch,
Robert Koch, Wyatt Kovac, Lance Kovac, William Rehwinkel and
Philip Rehwinkel. It has become a tradition to build pyramids with
all the participants, and this year’s pyramids were real show
stoppers! Just take a look at the accompanying photographs.
The girls’ competition followed in the afternoon. There were
participants entered in divisions from Novice to Level 4, and from
the beginners to the more advanced, it was evident that the
gymnasts had been working hard on their routines since
September. Every athlete did a wonderful job – and the audience
was thrilled!
The day ran smoothly thanks to our many volunteers. The
judges, coaches, runners, spotters and tabulators were Lance,
Eric, Brandi, Judy, Norah, Pat, Nicole, Shelby and Julia. A big
thanks to Carol, who kept the participants well-fed. All of the
competitors were treated to make-your-own ice cream sundaes
after the competition. Yummy! But of course, special thanks goes
to… THE COMPETITORS! We would not have the meet without
you.
The annual District competition is a small, friendly meet. For
some gymnasts, it is their only competition of the year while, for
others, it helps prepare them for upcoming competitions.
Page 2
05-09-13
MAY 9, 2013
SOKOL TIMES
official organ of the
SLOVAK GYMNASTIC UNION SOKOL
OF THE USA
Published monthly on the 2
nd
Thursday of the month.
SOKOL OFFICE:
Telephone: (973) 676-0280
Toll Free: (888) 253-0362
FAX (973) 676-3348
E-mail: SOKOLUSAHQS@aol.com
All communication for publication should be sent
to Editor at P.O. Box 189, East Orange, NJ 07019
by the 22nd of the previous month.
Second Class postage paid in East Orange, NJ
Annual Subscription for non-members is $10.00
From the President’s View
PENNSYLVANIA FRATERNAL
ALLIANCE 2013 SCHOLARSHIP
The Scholarship Committee of the Pennsylvania Fraternal
Alliance is announcing that the 2013 applications are now
available for the annual Scholarship Program. Applications
can be obtained through eligible members of a Fraternal
Benefit Society belonging to the Pennsylvania Fraternal
Alliance or by visiting the website of the Pennsylvania
Fraternal Alliance at www.pafraternal.org.
Applicants must:
• Be a resident of Pennsylvania and a member of a
Fraternal Benefit Society that is a member of the
Pennsylvania Fraternal Alliance.
• Be a 2013 high school graduate attending an accredited
college, university, trade school, etc. in the summer/fall
of 2013 as a full-time student (12 semester credits).
• Obtain a recommendation letter from their Fraternal
Benefit Society.
• Submit a 500-word essay on: “The impact of a
Fraternal Organization on your daily life, family and
community.”
Return the completed application, essay and letter of
recommendation, postmarked no later than September 1,
2013.
At least one $500 scholarship will be awarded. Additional
scholarships may be awarded depending upon available
funds.
If you or your society has not received the information on
the Pennsylvania Fraternal Alliance Scholarship, please
contact Charlotte L. Androckitis, FIC, Pennsylvania
Fraternal Alliance Scholarship Chairperson, at the Polish
Union of the US of NA, P.O. Box 660, Wilkes-Barre, PA
18703-0660. You can also call 570-823-1611 or e-mail
cla@polishunionusa.com
The month of April brought
news of two sad and disturbing
events. There was the terrorist
incident at the Boston Marathon
and the explosion of the Texas
fertilizer factory which led to the
destruction of the American
Sokol’s Sokol West complex.
The photos of the destruction of
the Sokol West and the Lone
Star Sokol Hall were sad indeed!
The buildings were virtually
destroyed by the massive fires
that swept through the City of
West, Texas, following the
fertilizer factory explosion. Many
people in the city were rendered
homeless, hundreds of buildings
were burned to the ground and
the blast from the explosion
rendered
many
properties
unusable. The Sokol hall was
severely damaged.
It is at times like these that
fraternalism becomes important.
Nationwide, people are stepping
forward and volunteering to help
Sokol West rebuild. The Czech
government recently donated
$200,000 to help rebuild the
ruined Sokol West building. The
destruction to the city was so
extensive and overwhelming that
fraternal assistance is critical to
help Sokol West rebuild.
The radio and television
reports
shared
many
stories
of
heartwarming
It is at times like these
that fraternalism
becomes important.
Joseph Bielecki
firefighters risking their lives to
save people, individual acts of
heroism, and even the charming
story of a Czech bakery, The
Czech Stop, located three miles
from Sokol West that opened the
bakery and did everything
possible to help the injured and
wounded and firefighters who
made their way out of the
destruction zone. The Czech
Stop gave water and their
delicious kolache to help the
people of the destroyed town.
I encourage our membership
to consider helping Sokol West
rebuild. The American Sokol
organization
is
accepting
donations to assist with the
reconstruction of the Sokol West
facility. Our Sokol society is built
upon
the
foundation
of
fraternalism. It will be a great
gesture to help our brother and
sister Sokols in West, Texas, in
this dire hour of their need and to
help them rise like the phoenix
and rebuild their ruined Sokol
Hall. To donate, make checks
payable to “American Sokol” and
mail them to American Sokol
Office,
Attn:
Sokol
West
Restoration Fund, 9126 Ogden
Avenue, Brookfield, IL 60513.
I
also
encourage
our
membership and our lodges to
participate in the Sokol USA
Convention in Bethlehem, Pa., at
the end of July. The important
issue of merger will be
addressed at the convention.
The Supreme Lodge and its
(Continued on Page 8)
MAY 9, 2013
SOKOL TIMES
MINUTES OF M.M. HODZA
DISTRICT MEETING
OCTOBER 20, 2012
BOONTON, NJ
President Judy Bindas called the meeting to order at 10:30AM. The following people
were in attendance:
Name
Lodge
Judith Bindas
Teddy Fernandez
Brandi Kovac
Norah Valentin
Ellen Kovac
Pat Ritz
Karen Sikes
32 – President
1 – Vice-President
12 – Co-Director / Secretary
12 - Treasurer
12
32 – Co-Director
32
Sis. Bindas led the Pledge of Allegiance and a moment of silence for deceased
members followed.
Minutes from the 2011 meeting were read. A motion was made to accept the minutes
as read. Motion seconded. Motion carried.
Treasurer’s Report
Sis. Valentin provided both a detailed annual report of the District’s finances, as well
as a comprehensive ten-year summary. This year our income was higher than our
expenses, which was due to several factors. First, the fraternal contributions listed for
2012 are actually two years’ worth of contributions (from the years 2010 and 2011).
Second, while there weren’t any donations from the Tarrytown, Yonkers or New
York Lodges, there was a $500 donation from a member who wishes to remain
anonymous. The donation was in response to the announcement the District
submitted to the Sokol Times for help running the District competition. (To see how
the donation was used, see the “New Business” Report.) Third, none of our members
went to the Prague Slet, and the other sports reimbursements were lower than
previous years.
Sis. Valentin hasn’t confirmed whether the District assessment from the 2nd quarter of
2010 was received. It could have amounted to around $300. The values of the
assessments vary from year to year; this year the District received $344.00.
Sis. Valentin paid the United Sokols of the East $30.00 dues from 2011 at today’s
meeting, but we haven’t received the bill for 2012 membership yet.
Motion was made to accept the Treasurer’s report. Motion seconded. Motion carried.
The District commended Sis. Valentin for the superb care she takes and another job
well done.
Sokol Woodlands
Sis. Ellen Kovac reported that the camp remains on the market. The plumbing in the
Main House was turned on this past summer, and the Camp Board continued to
maintain the grounds. Sis. Ellen Kovac stated that the Camp is still accepting
donations to help offset the cost of maintenance and we are looking for volunteers to
help maintain the grounds. If anyone is interested in visiting the grounds, they can
contact Sis. Ellen Kovac. Members are encouraged to go and help.
Sis. Sikes asked if there’s been any interest or offers. Sis. Ellen Kovac reported that
the property has been shown to numerous parties by a broker that specializes in camp
grounds.
Gymnastics
Sis. Brandi Kovac was unable to attend the United Sokols of the East meeting held at
Sokol NY on 10/10/12, but received the following information:
The US of E will run a joint Children's and Jr/Sr Competition on Saturday, April 20,
2013 at ASO NY. The meet will be run in a warm-up / compete format, like last year.
Females Novice through Level 3 will have one vault only, females Level 4 and up
will have two vaults. The US of E is hoping to hire 3-4 judges for the female
competition like last year; volunteers will still be needed. Last year, the meet ran
smoothly thanks to the staggered start times of the different levels. So, for the
February US of E meeting, each organization will bring a tally of how many
gymnasts are in each level, and we will decide the start times at the February meeting.
The next US of E meeting is on 2/13/13.
The US of E also discussed holding possible training sessions because all of the
Page 3
calisthenics are new for this year’s Slet, however, no dates were set.
All female routines remain the same from last year. The boys routines that are novice
through Level 3 might have changed. We will be in touch with other organizations
and our Sokol USA Directors to make sure our District is teaching the correct boys
routines.
With those dates set, the District decided to hold its competition on 3/23/13 in
Boonton. The boys will register and group stretch at 10:00AM and warm-up /
compete at 10:30AM. The girls will register and group stretch 12:30PM and warmup / compete at 1:00PM. Just as a reminder, the uniform policy is as follows: female
competitors must wear a leotard that is red, white, and blue or any combination
thereof, and male competitors must wear blue shorts, with a red, white, or blue shirt.
The 2013 ASO Slet will be held in Milwaukee, Wisconsin from June 25-30, 2013.
The theme is “Wheelin’ in Milwaukee – 2013 Sports Festival” and more detailed
information will be disseminated at the ASO Director’s Conference held this
weekend.
National Gymnastics Department Conference Call
Sis. Valentin, Sis. Brandi Kovac & Sis. Pat Ritz called in to participate on the
National Gymnastics Department conference call on September 13, 2012 . The call
lasted about 2 hours. The main topics of the call were the Code of Conduct, the ASO
Directors’ Conference weekend, and the possibility of Sokol USA merging with
another organization. Bro. Banjak reported that the Prague Slet was wonderful. Sis.
Chris Yatchyshyn reported that she wasn’t certain whether or not the Gymnastics
Directors should begin planning the next Sokol USA Slet because of the merger
discussion.
The discussion regarding the Code of Conduct stemmed from our recommendation
last year. Rather than amending the Sokol USA Code of Conduct, the National
Department voted to adopt the USAG Code of Conduct, which has several parts and
has been recently updated, and is reviewed at least annually. Throughout October,
representatives read the Code of Ethics, the Club requirements and the Participant
Welfare Policy on the USA Gymnastics website and voted unanimously via email to
adopt the USAG Policies.
The 2012 American Sokol Director’s Development Conference is being held this
weekend in Chicago, IL. Sokol USA has funding available to assist in the cost of
attending the conference and Sis. Chris Yatchyshyn really encouraged as many Sokol
USA members to attend as possible. The conference offers a wide variety of
workshops, and is great opportunity to learn the calisthenics for the upcoming Slet.
Our District had, unfortunately, already scheduled our District meeting for this
weekend – but we wish all of the participants well!
The Supreme Lodge has been hearing proposals regarding a possible merger with
another fraternal organization, although no one is at liberty to say much more. Sis.
Chris Yatchyshyn suggested that we reach out to Supreme Lodge officers and share
our ideas. She specifically mentioned how diplomatic and considerate Bro. Emil
Trgala has been. We are proud to say that Bro. Trgala is a Lodge 12 & District MM
Hodza member in good standing – thank you Bro. Trgala!
Lodge Reports:
#1 New York – Bro. Fernandez is not sure if the remaining Lodge #1 officers are
meeting regularly. Bro. Fernandez and Bro. George Dano are still active with some
activities at Sokol New York.
#12 Central Jersey – Moved unexpectedly half-way through the year when AGA
(American Gymnastics Academy) suddenly - & without warning – closed. Lodge 12
is now renting JK Gymnastics on Friday nights. The facility is not ideal, but the
Lodge 12 group is making do. There are possibly 2-3 new instructors available, and 7
new participants. All “new” instructors are old Lodge 12 members who are now back
in the NJ area. The youngest participant is 4 yrs old, the oldest is 12 yrs old. In
addition, several members are dedicated to maintaining the camp grounds at Sokol
Woodlands. There are other groups renting the gym at the same time as us… not
ideal. Both co-directors of Lodge 12 are USAG Safety Certified through 2016.
#32 Boonton – Boonton holds classes on Monday (boys) and Tuesday (girls)
evenings. Enrollment in Sokolettes classes is about the same from last year, but the
Juniors class is down to 1 participant. So Boonton has their Level 4 Sokolettes
workout with the junior girl. There are about 20 Sokolettes, and 4 Sokolads & 4
Junior boys. There will be no tots class this fall. Sis. Nicole Zaremba is available &
interested in teaching tots, so they hope to have a class in the spring. The
Cheerleading program has been dissolved. Due to financial complexities of the
cheerleaders being Sokol members, and shared equipment, there have been lots of
negotiations involving closing of the program. Two teams of Boonton bowlers
participated in the annual Bowling tournament in Bethlehem, PA. The tournament
was small, and the only women’s teams were from Boonton. Boonton will host the
(Continued on Page 6)
Page 4
MAY 9, 2013
SOKOL TIMES
XXXIV CONVENTION
OF THE
S.G.U. SOKOL USA
JULY 27 - 31, 2013
SANDS HOTEL
BETHLEHEM, PA
Lodges, Districts or individual members having motions
or suggestions for the good of the Sokol U.S.A., or petitions
shall forward same on the forms furnished by the Supreme
Secretary, not later than sixty (60) days prior to the
Convention, who shall deliver the same to the appropriate
convention committee. All correspondence shall be
directed to the Supreme Secretary, SOKOL USA,
PO Box 189, East Orange, NJ 07019-0189
Milan S. Kovac, Supreme Secretary
Sokol USA
Farrell, PA
Invites all members, families
and friends to our
ANNUAL MEETING
AND GYMNAST
RECOGNITION DAY
Sunday, June 2, 2013
Slovak Home, Farrell, PA
800 Spearman Avenue
Farrell, Pa.
2:00 pm … Annual Business Meeting
3:00 pm ………… Gymnastic Program
Lunch to follow program
Our gymnasts have been working hard
preparing for the American Sokol Slet
in Wisconsin from June 25-30, 2013.
Everyone is encouraged to come to the
Sokol gymnasium and meet all who are
maintaining the Sokol traditions of…
“A Sound Mind in a Sound Body.”
DISTRICT MM HODZA COMPETITION
Name
Sokolettes
Novice
Madison McBride
Gabriella Sokol
Sky Lee
Mariana Garcia
Katie Kovac
Level 1
Ava Kern
Madeline Rehwinkel
Elizabeth Rehwinkel
Jolene Giampietro
Gabriella Eades
Emeline Kovac
Stephanie Eaton
Rachel Glazner
Samantha Glazner
Jacklyn Helbourg
Level 2
Bethany Glaser
Olivia Kern
Kotton Lee
Level 3
Hannah Glaser
Marisa Wagner
Charlotte Wagner
Level 4
Nicole Febbi
Leah Durkin
Samantha Brancato
Savanah Sutter
Junior Division
Level 1
Chelsea Walsh
Level 4
Madeline Lake
Unit
Vault
Bars
Beam
FX
Total
Place
Boonton
Boonton
Boonton
Boonton
Central Jersey
9.00
8.00
9.00
8.30
7.85
9.45
9.25
8.35
8.15
6.90
9.00
9.10
9.20
7.40
8.00
8.90
9.00
7.65
7.60
6.50
36.35
35.35
34.20
31.45
29.25
1
2
3
4
5
Boonton
Central Jersey
Central Jersey
Boonton
Boonton
Central Jersey
Boonton
Central Jersey
Central Jersey
Boonton
9.45
9.20
9.00
9.15
8.90
9.45
7.00
8.75
7.80
7.90
9.00
8.00
7.70
8.55
8.30
8.15
7.95
6.55
6.80
6.55
9.20
9.10
9.30
8.25
8.20
8.20
8.10
7.40
7.50
7.35
9.50
9.00
9.15
8.85
9.00
8.30
8.40
7.80
7.85
7.60
37.15
35.30
35.15
34.80
34.40
34.10
31.45
30.50
29.95
29.40
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
Boonton
Boonton
Boonton
9.55
9.30
8.45
9.40
7.25
7.75
8.40
7.75
8.00
8.05
9.35
7.30
35.40
33.65
31.50
1
2
3
Boonton
Boonton
Boonton
8.85
8.35
7.75
8.50
6.30
5.45
9.55
7.85
8.30
9.10
6.85
6.90
36.00
29.35
28.40
1
2
3
Boonton
Boonton
Boonton
Boonton
8.80
7.75
7.85
4.25
8.10
6.80
7.15
6.10
9.05
8.25
8.05
7.15
9.50
8.75
8.15
6.90
35.45
31.55
31.20
24.40
1
2
3
4
Central Jersey
9.30
7.25
8.55
9.45
34.55
1
Boonton
8.40
7.35
7.80
8.50
32.05
1
MAY 9, 2013
SOKOL TIMES
FOURTH ANNUAL
SOKOL USA FARRELL
FOUR-PERSON OPEN GOLF SCRAMBLE
NCSML RECEIVES NATIONAL
MEDAL FOR SERVICE
The National Medal for Museum and Library Service presented
by the Institute of Museum & Library Services is the nation's
highest honor conferred on museums and libraries for service to
the community. The National Medal was presented to the National
Czech & Slovak Museum & Library at a celebration in Washington,
th
D.C. on May 8 .
"The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library played an
essential role in rebuilding a Cedar Rapids neighborhood following
the horrific 2008 flood, and we are very proud to name this
museum one of this year's National Medal for Museum and Library
Service winners," said Susan Hildreth, Director of the Institute of
Museum and Library Services.
"We are immensely proud of being recognized for helping our
city recover from its major disaster," said Gail Naughton,
President/CEO of the NCSML. "Not only did we rebuild and expand
our museum and library, but we also helped inspire local citizens
and businesses to have faith in the future of the city."
Page 5
SHENANGO LAKE GOLF CLUB
99 Birchwood Drive
Transfer, PA 16154
June 8, 2013; 9 AM
ENTRY FORMS: All Sokol members and non-members are invited
to participate in the FOURTH ANNUAL SOKOL USA FARRELL OPEN
FOUR-PERSON GOLF SCRAMBLE at Shenango Lake Golf Club on
June 8, 2013. SHOTGUN START is at 9:00 a.m.
Registration Fee includes: Green fee, cart, skins game, T-shirt, door
prizes, line prizes, beverages, steak dinner, and food at the turn.
FEATURING:
• Keys to a 2013 Chevrolet Camaro for the FIRST
Hole-in-One on a designated par 3
WHO NEEDS MONEY
FOR COLLEGE?
•
$5,000 Cash Prize for ANY Hole-in-One on a designated par 3
Team Prizes (based on minimum of 25 teams)
1st Prize: $800 per team
2nd Prize: $400 per team
3rd Prize: $200 per team
High School Seniors planning to attend college or current college
students, Sokol USA’s Milan Getting Scholarship is available to
Sokol USA members!
Education is never something that should take a back seat.
Improve your financial ability to attend college by applying for the
Milan Getting Scholarship. Each year, Sokol USA is proud to
award the Milan Getting Scholarship to Sokol USA members who
are furthering their education. Contact Sokol USA Headquarters
by
phone
or
e-mail
(1-888-253-0362
or
SOKOLUSAHQS@aol.com) and obtain an application and get
ready to enjoy one of the benefits of being a Sokol USA member.
Information
Applications for the 2013-2014 academic year must be received
at Sokol USA by April 1, 2013. New scholarship recipients will be
announced by June 1, 2013.
16146; Phone: 724-866-8553.
Reminder: All current Milan Getting Scholarship recipients
must submit a scholarship renewal application each year by
June 29th. Please contact Sokol USA headquarters with any
questions.
Entries Accepted on “First Come” basis. Limit of 30 teams.
and
entry
forms
can
be
downloaded
by
visiting
http://sokolfarrell.org and clicking “News and Events” and “Golf Scramble”
or by contacting Brother Tim Brandt, chairman; 1448 Hall Ave.; Sharon, PA
29 TEAMS WERE ENTERED LAST YEAR.
ENTER NOW AND BEAT THE CUT OFF!
Page 6
MINUTES OF M.M. HODZA
DISTRICT MEETING
(Continued from Page 3)
tournament next year on the 3rd weekend in May of 2013. Boonton continues to
consistently fundraise. They had a successful Slovak Dinner, and a Fish & Chips
Dinner. They have three annual pancake breakfasts: one on Superbowl Sunday, one
on Father’s Day and one on the Sunday following Thanksgiving. The Boonton Lodge
gives back to its community as well. The Giving Tree was so popular for over two
years, so they are doing it again. Also, the Lodge occasionally rents out the hall out
again to generate income. In hopes of generating a lot of income and enthusiasm,
Boonton will hold a Tricky Tray on Sunday, April 14th, 2013 at the Westin Marriott in
Morristown. Sis. Sikes that there will be more details to follow, but she has been
filling out permits and securing the location. Tickets will be around $45.00 and
include an early dinner buffet. She will be advertising on websites and in the papers.
She will soon be accepting donations. The Tricky Tray will support activities and
safety equipment.
Sis. Bindas congratulated the Lodges on their great activities.
seconded to accept Lodge Reports.
Motion made &
The meeting will adjourn for a “working lunch” while we read through the USAG
Code of Conduct. Boonton is excited to have installed Wireless Internet connection
in their hall; the next step is for the Officers to find out the Wi-Fi password.
The meeting called back to order at 1:45pm.
Recommendations of the Technical Board for 2012-2013
1.
The District help finance District students sent to Sokol Instructors’ Schools by
reimbursing 50% of the most reasonable means of transportation.
2.
The District host at least one Eastern Area training session, if needed, during the
2012-2013 season, with reimbursement provided by the National Gymnastics
Department.
3.
The District reimburse Director(s) travel, lodging and food expenses arising from
District participation in authorized activities.
4.
The District retain its membership with the United Sokols of the East. (The $100
annual membership fee will be paid as follows: $30 by the District, $35 by Lodge
12 and $35 by Lodge 32.)
5.
6.
7.
MAY 9, 2013
SOKOL TIMES
The District sponsor an annual competition for Children, Juniors and Seniors to
be held March 23, 2013 in Boonton; and the District financially support this
event by paying for awards and participants' meals.
The District have representation at the 2013 Sokol USA National Technical
Board meeting; paying for expenses not covered by the National Gymnastic
Department.
The District subsidize expenses for District participants in any 2013 Sokol USA
National sports tournament (golf, bowling, volleyball, etc.), excluding Sokolfest
activities, by paying $10.00 per participant, per tournament.
8.
The District reimburse member instructors one-half their tuition for completion
of the USAG Safety Certification Course.
9.
The District pays for the Professional Membership in the USAG for each of the
District Officers, if the Membership is not paid by the Supreme Lodge.
10. The District subsidize expenses for District participants in the 2013 Slet to the
ASO Slet to be held in Milwaukee, Wisconsin by paying $75.00 per participant
in a Slet-sanctioned event.
Motion was made and seconded that the recommendations be accepted. Motion
carried.
Old Business
During the lunch break, we re-read the USA Gymnastics Code of Ethics, the Club
requirements and the Participant Welfare Policy. According to the USAG website,
the policies will be reviewed (at the least) annually, and updated if necessary. USAG
was very careful to emphasize that there are limits to what USAG can do since it does
not own or operate clubs at a local level. We are pleased to see that the Gymnastics
Department wants to adopt the USAG Code. Now that it is a recommendation
coming from the National Gymnastics Board, Sis. Chris Yatchyshyn and Bro. Todd
Yatchyshyn will bring the recommendation to the next Supreme Lodge meeting
(being held next weekend). We are, however, concerned that the rest of our District’s
recommendations might not have been included in this recommendation. Last year,
our recommendations were to:
1. amend the current Code of Conduct to include certain passages from the Safety
Certification Handbook.
2. include the new Code in the Sokol USA By-Laws.
3. each year, have all Sokol USA instructors (and other adults that are involved with
the supervision of minors) sign a copy of the Code of Conduct and submit it to
Headquarters. The signature attests that the person has read, understood and promises
to follow the Code of Conduct. If it is found that an instructor has not followed the
Code of Conduct, then disciplinary action may follow.
Sis. Ellen Kovac emailed the National Gymnastics Department that Lodge 12
instructors had already signed a copy of the Code of Conduct. No one responded to
say whether or not their Lodges were also having instructors sign the Code. Motion
made to draft and email a letter to the National Directors asking them to address all of
the parts of our recommendation within the next 3 days.
Other Old Business involves the US of E dues from past years. The Boonton Lodge
has received the bills but as yet has not been able to confirm with their Lodge
Treasurer if the bills were paid. The US of E has informed us that if dues are not
paid-up in full, then Lodges will not be able to register their participants for the April
2013 US of E competition.
New Business
Fundraising continues to be done on an “as needed” basis. This year, we are not sure
how many District members will participate in the Milwaukee Slet. Just in case, we
will continue to sell green Sokol back-packs, along with Sokol cookbooks. At last
year’s District competition, the back-pack fundraiser was a success; the cookbook
fundraiser was slightly less successful, but you never know!
The District is encouraging its members to attend and participate in the ASO Slet in
Milwaukee – we will have to check the public school calendars in our area to see if
the public schools are still in session. (The Slet is June 25-30, 2013.)
We cannot thank our ANONYMOUS DONOR enough! Responding to an
advertisement in the Sokol Times, the Anonymous Donor generously donated
$500.000 to be used towards our annual District competition. We wanted to make the
day really special for our competitors. So we decided on an ice cream social after the
competition. The participants (and their younger siblings) were thrilled with the
special treat. Thank you again Anonymous Donor.
Sis. Brandi Kovac will draft an announcement for the Sokol Times inviting an
individual member, Lodge or another District to sponsor our District competition.
Motion was made and seconded.
Discussion regarding recently inactive lodges in our District, and whether there are
remaining Officers for those lodges. If so, we would like to reach out to them. We
will contact Sokol USA Headquarters regarding those lodges and their contact
information.
We inquired about the upcoming 2013 Sokol USA Convention. No one was sure of
the dates or location.
As in the past, any urgent business and business that arises before the next annual
meeting can be discussed and voted on via email.
Salaries:
President
Vice President
Secretary
Treasurer
Directors
$75.00
$30.00
$55.00
$75.00
$75.00 each
The salaries have remained the same for more than 11 years. Motion was made and
seconded that salaries remain the same for another year. Motion carried.
Nomination of Officers:
Nominations of officers were opened.
Judy Bindas nominated for President. She accepted the nomination.
Teddy Fernandez nominated for Vice President. He accepted the nomination.
Brandi Kovac nominated for Secretary. She accepted the nomination.
Norah Valentin nominated for Treasurer. She accepted the nomination.
Brandi Kovac nominated for Co-Director. She accepted the nomination.
Pat Ritz nominated for Co-Director. She accepted the nomination.
There were no more nominations, nominations were closed.
Motion made and seconded that the secretary cast one vote for the slate. Motion
carried.
(Continued on Page 7)
MAY 9, 2013
SOKOL TIMES
Page 7
SILENT
AUCTION AT
CONVENTION
IN MEMORY
Of our deceased Brother and Sister Sokols with a
sincere expression of sympathy to their families
from the Supreme Officers of Sokol U.S.A.
DONATIONS GRATEFULLY
ACKNOWLEDGED
To the Milan Getting Scholarship
ELIZABETH GELDON – (1917-2013) A member of
Lodge 66W, Bethlehem, Pa. She survived by her two
daughters.
ELIZABETH KABAT – (1921-2013) A member of Lodge
15W, Binghamton, N.Y. She is survived by her sibling.
THOMAS REHAK KABAT – (1918-1995) A member of
Lodge 36, Binghamton, N.Y. He is survived by his children.
LOLA RUZICKA – (1916-2013) A member of Lodge
214, Palmerton, Pa. She is survived by her son.
MILAN S. GIRET – (1930-2013) A member of Lodge
306, Chicago, Ill. He is survived by his nephew.
GARTH T. WEIGLE – (1931-2002) A member of Lodge
500, East Orange, N.J. He is survived by his son.
ELIZABETH C. WOJTON – (1930-2013) A member of
Lodge 20, Ford City, Pa. She is survived by her children.
STEPHEN PLACKO – (1921-2013) A member of Lodge
32, Boonton, N.J. He is survived by his wife.
CATHERINE RUTTNER – (1919-2013) A member of
Lodge 62, Ambridge, Pa. She is survived by her daughter.
ROSE M. MRISS – (1913-2012) A member of Lodge
30W, Allentown, Pa. She is survived by her son.
HELEN PALKO – (1928-2011) A member of Lodge 103,
Farrell, Pa. She is survived by her husband.
There will be a silent
auction at the Sokol USA
convention in Bethlehem in
July. Lodges and members
are encouraged to bring prize
baskets to the opening of the
convention. The baskets will
be available during the
convention for people to
make bids.
Bidding will close prior to
the end of the convention so
that the winning bidders will
be able to pay and take home
their baskets. The proceeds
from the silent auction will
benefit the Milan Getting
Scholarship Fund.
Please contribute prize
baskets so that the auction
will be a success and, if you
have questions, call Joe
Bielecki at 412-390-0900 or
Jennifer Moulton at 636-5493332.
From Darren J. Molony, Danbury, Conn.
In memory of deceased Sokol members
$50.00
From an Anonymous Donor
In memory of deceased Sokol members
$2,000.00
To the Sokol USA Gymnastic Fund
From an Anonymous Donor
In memory of deceased Sokol members
$2,000.00
MINUTES OF M.M. HODZA
DISTRICT MEETING
(Continued from Page 6)
President – Judy Bindas
Vice President - Teddy Fernandez
Secretary – Brandi Kovac
Treasurer - Norah Valentin
Co-Directors – Brandi Kovac and Pat Ritz
Our next meeting will be on 10/19/13. We will tentatively
schedule it to be held in Tarrytown, NY (Boonton is the back-up
location); the meeting will be at 10:00AM with a light breakfast
and lunch served.
IS YOUR FAMILY COVERED?
Insurance coverage for all family members is an essential part of personal
financial planning. Don’t put off taking care of this responsibility.
The meeting adjourned at 2:35PM.
See your lodge Financial Secretary or call Sokol Headquarters toll free at
1-888-253-0362 for additional information or membership applications.
Respectfully submitted,
Brandi Kovac, Secretary
SHARE YOUR FAMILY EVENTS WITH YOUR “SOKOL FAMILY”
The Sokol Times Social Page is a great way to keep up
with your old and new friends! Share your families’ events
with your Sokol family. We want to hear from you.
Only news regarding members of our lodges will be printed.
Complete one of the attached forms and mail the information
and a photograph of clear quality to Sokol USA, 276 Prospect
Street, P.O. Box 189, East Orange, NJ 07019-0189.
Information and photographs also may be e-mailed to:
SOKOLUSAHQS@aol.com
ENGAGEMENTS,
WEDDINGS &
ANNIVERSARIES
BIRTHDAYS
PROMOTIONS,
HONOR ROLLS &
OTHER EVENTS
NAMES: _____________________
NAME: _____________________
NAME: _____________________
_____________________
BIRTH DATE: _________________
PHONE #: ___________________
PHONE #: ___________________
AGE: _______________________
HOMETOWN: _________________
HOMETOWN: _________________
PHONE #: ___________________
SOKOL LODGE: ________________
SOKOL LODGE: ________________
HOMETOWN: _________________
EVENT: _____________________
YEARS MARRIED (IF APPLICABLE): ___
SOKOL LODGE: ________________
_____________________
Photographs are not required, but they do add to the presentation.
Please include a self addressed, stamped envelope if you would like your photograph returned.
MAY 9, 2013
SOKOL TIMES
Page 8
PROFIT AND LOSS
BALANCE SHEET
January through March 2013
Ordinary Income/Expenses
Income
SCHOLARSHIP-MILAN GETTING
AMORTIZATION-IMR
ASSESSMENTS-GYMNASTICS
ASSESSMENTS-INDIGENT
ASSESSMENTS-LIFE
DIVIDEND ON STOCK
GYMNASTIC INCOME
GYM FUND DONATIONS
Total GYMNASTIC INCOME
INTEREST INCOME
Total BONDS INDUSTRIAL
COLLATERAL LOANS
MORTGAGE LOANS
PNC CHECKING
Total INTEREST INCOME
Total RENTAL REAL ESTATE
Total Income
Expense
PAYMENTS TO MEMBERS
ANNUITY PAID
CASH SURRENDER
DEATH CLAIMS
Total PAYMENTS TO MEMBERS
ACTUARIAL & ACCOUNTING FEE
BANK CHARGES
BOOKS/PERIODICALS
Total CONVENTIONS
DECREASE-LIFE RESERVE
DIVIDENDS
DONATIONS/ADVERTISING
EXPENSE OF SUP. LDG. MTG.
FRATERNAL EXPENSE
GYMNASTIC EXPENSES
USAG PROF. MEMBERSHIP
SLET EXPENSES
Total GYMNASTICS EXPENSES
HOSPITALIZATION
INSURANCE (EX. REAL ESTATE)
INVESTMENT EXPENSES
LEGAL EXPENSES
OFFICE EXPENSES
OFFICERS’ TRAVEL EXPENSES
OFFICIAL PUBLICATIONS
PAYROLL TAX EXPENSES
POSTAGE, EXPRESS, TEL&TEL
RENT EXPENSE (rent)
Total RENTAL REAL EST. EXP.
SALARIES
OFFICE
OFFICER
Total SALARIES
STATE LICENSE FEES
TELEPHONE EXP.
Total Expense
Net Ordinary Income
Net Income
As of March 31, 2013
590.00
22,678.00
279.14
53.61
7,576.71
14,191.40
625.00
625.00
143,021.60
574.68
2,387.36
2.55
145,986.19
10,500.00
202,480.05
947.25
4,455.33
43,155.80
48,558.38
5,175.00
202.24
455.00
1,428.90
4,275.00
780.78
100.00
14,294.72
1,507.25
160.00
500.00
660.00
12,143.28
9,721.00
3,047.27
1,000.00
4,343.34
1,384.92
5,360.00
3,662.51
300.00
10,500.00
6,413.94
16,117.26
23,480.17
39,597.43
1,450.00
911.22
177,272.18
25,207.87
25,207.87
2013 Junior Olympic National
Compulsory Workshop
Sponsored by USA Gymnastics
June 7 to 9, 2013, Grand Sierra Resort, Reno, Nev.
The workshop will provide participants with a clear understanding of the 2013-2021
USA Gymnastics Women’s Junior Olympic Program: concepts, compulsory exercises,
the interpretation of the text, and technical execution of the skills. Coaches at the
workshop will earn W311 University credit and judges will ear Continuing Education
Clinic credits. The Women’s Junior Olympic Program Committee members will be
presenting the new compulsory exercises.
Professional, junior professional and instructor members may register online at
www.usagym.org. Standard registration fee is $375. Standard registration fee for nonmembers is $425. Fees include a Compulsory Program Book, DVD and floor exercise
music CDs.
For addition information, visit www.usagym.org.
ASSETS
Current Assets
Checking/Savings
CASH-PNC CHECKING
CASH-CANADIAN BK OF COM
CASH-M/M GYMNASTIC
CASH-PNC CAPITAL RESERVE
PETTY CASH
Total Checking/Savings
Other Current Assets
Total BONDS
STOCK
PREFERRED STOCK
COMMON STOCK
Total STOCK
Total MORTGAGES RECEIVABLE
Total COLLATERAL LOANS
CERTIFICATE LOANS
BENEFICIARY TRUST FUND
RESERVE FOR TRUST FUND
TRUST FUND FOR BENEFICIARY
Total BENEFICIARY TRUST FUND
BOND INTEREST DUE
EXCHANGE
MORTGAGE INTEREST DUE
PREMIUMS DUE
Total Other Current Assets
Total Current Assets
Fixed Assets
AUTOMOBILE
ACCUM DEPREC-AUTO
AUTOMOBILE-other
Total AUTOMOBILE
REAL ESTATE-BUILDING
ACCUM DEPREC-BUILDING
REAL ESTATE-BLDG-other
Total REAL ESTATE –BUILDING
Total Fixed Assets
TOTAL ASSETS
LIABILITIES AND EQUITY
CURRENT LIABILITIES
NON-ADMITTED COLLATERAL LOAN
A&H RESERVE
ADVANCE PREMIUMS
AVR
CLAIMS-LIFE
DISTRICT ASSESSMENTS
DIVIDEND ACCUMULATION
EXPENSES PAYABLE
IMR
LIVE RESERVE
Total MORTGAGE LOAN ESCROW
NON-ADMITTED MORTGAGE
RESERVE FOR UNPRES. CHECKS
TAXES DUE
Total Other Current Liabilities
Long Term Liabilities
ANNUITIES-LEFT WITH SOCIETY
MATURED ENDOWMENTS-LEFT W/SOC
Total Long Term Liabilities
Total Liabilities
Equity
UNASSIGNED FUNDS
INDIGENT FUND
ACCIDENT AND HEALTH FUND
Total UNASSIGNED FUNDS
CONSOLIDATED FUND
(Retained Earnings)
Net Income
Total Equity
TOTAL LIABILITIES & EQUITY
306,761.53
3,705.96
29,261.71
0.40
500.00
340,229.60
9,434,506.83
607,560.00
223,994.00
831,554.00
1,104,799.60
480,067.16
3,253.88
-17,249.01
17,249.01
0.00
154,210.00
2,669.74
379.00
2,629.00
12,014,069.21
12,354,298.81
-30,095.95
30,095.95
0.00
-60,691.12
67,898.25
7,207.13
7,207.13
12,361,505.94
93,011.83
1,290.00
820.00
120,074.00
80,403.00
522.50
121,052.76
123,267.00
443,808.25
4,820,584.00
-2,691.82
506,601.00
1,411.32
40,000.00
6,350,153.84
137,995.31
125,727.08
263,722.39
6,613,876.23
8,974.41
53,610.29
62,584.70
5,659,837.14
25,207.87
5,747,629.71
12,361,505.94
FROM THE PRESIDENT’S VIEW
(Continued from Page 2)
committees have spent a great deal of time researching prospects for the future of the
organization and engaging in discussions with various prospective merger partners. It
is important that our membership reads the merger proposal and gives great
consideration to it. It is also important that as many lodges as possible send delegates
to this convention so that each lodge has a voice and input into this important matter.
NAZDAR!
Joe Bielecki
Sokol USA President