Bethlen Almanac 1999 (Ligonier)

The Hungarian Reformed Federation of America

This gathering, now known as “Fraternal Day,” was established in 1986 by Branch 151 of Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania, has grown to its present state. The traditional church service led by Rev. Nicholas Novak and Rev. Paul Kovács is a vital part of this event, not to mention the wonderful music of Dorothy & Company. It is the best!

We were pleased to have a children’s table where they made crafts together and had a good time among themselves. Each child received a balloon, a coloring book and crayons from Br. 151. It was a blessing to see so many happy young faces, they are after all our future and their participation will ensure that these events will continue into the new millennium.

A big “Thank You” to all the helpers who worked unselfishly to make this such a successful event in every respect.

We are grateful to the members of the Duquesne Hungarian Reformed Church who participate every year in colorful costumes and display beautifully-made crafts. We are grateful to the workers of the Bethlen Home who put so much extra effort into making this a successful event.

We are grateful to God for the ability to continue for so many years uniting the Hungarians in Western Pennsylvania and the surrounding states in a joint effort to support our beloved Bethlen Home.

Endre Csornán, National Secretary

24th Annual Hungarian Festival in New Brunswick, New Jersey

The 24lh Annual Hungarian Festival in New Brunswick, New Jersey, was held on Saturday, June 5, 1999. The HRFA was again one of the participating organizations in this annual event which attracts many thousands of persons not only from the tri-state area but from Florida, Ohio and Canada as well.

The festival this year was a salute to the American Hungarian Foundation, celebrating its 45lh Anniversary and the 10lh Anniversary of the opening of its Hungarian Heritage Center.

Speakers at the opening ceremony included the Honorable István Kovács, Consul General of the Republic of Hungary in New York, and the Honorable James M. Cahill, Mayor of the city of New Brunswick.

Immediately following the opening ceremonies, the HAAC Csurdongolo Hungarian Folk Dance Ensemble gave its first perfor15