Hungarian American Coalition News, 2000 (9. évfolyam, 1-3. szám)
2000 / 1. szám
The Hungarian American Club of New Mexico The Hungarian American Club of New Mexico has placed Hungarian embroidery on display at the Maxwell Museum of Anthropology at the University of New Mexico, and has hosted Hungarian balloonists in the Kodak International Balloon Fiesta for seven years. In 2000, meetings are planned for May 14, October 22 and December 10 with a summer picnic yet to be arranged. The Club's meetings generally commemorate Mother's Day, the 1848 and 1956 revolutions as well as Mikulás and Christmas. Ongoing activities include: the History Group, Public Life Group, Film Club, language classes, and csárdás classes. Our World Trade Organization “Insiders” In early December of 1999 the events surrounding the World Trade Organization (WTO) were prominent in the media but one of our Board members, Helen Szablya, and her husband, John, were insiders of the event acting as liaison officers for the eleven-member Hungarian delegation. The idea of using liaison officers, one point of contact for each country, was excellent because it made the coordination of the event efficient and simple. The liaison officers showed their ability by solving impending problems by themselves and had to find ways to contact people through tear gas and other obstacles. Naturally, there were frustrations, such as constant changes, but the camaraderie and solidarity between liaisons made this event unforgettable! The Szablyas appreciated particularly the efforts of Ralph Munro, Secretary of State and his Deputy Michelle Burkheimer and also the entire leadership of the Dignitaries and Protocol Committee. The major lesson learned first hand was that the WTO Conference lacked two prerequisites for a smooth and well-run conference: enough time for planning and a central coordinating authority for the entire conference. SOME FACTS ABOUT THE COALITION The Hungarian American Coalition is a not-for-profit 501 (c)3 tax-exempt organization, registered in Washington, DC on August 20, 1991. OUR MISSION: The Coalition was established to mobilize and coordinate the talents and resources of its members and to promote the interests of Hungarian-Americans. OUR GOALS 1. To identify and promote the concerns and interests of the Hungarian-American community; 2. To foster interest and appreciation in the United States for the history, education, and culture of Hungary, including its literature, arts, and scientific achievements; 3. To encourage cultural and educational interaction between the people of the United States and Hungary; 4. To protect and preserve the human and minority rights and cultural heritage of Hungarians throughout the world; 5. To support democratic institutions and economic development in Hungary. ORGANIZATION AND MEMBERSHIP: The Coalition consists of organizational and individual members and operates in accordance with its Articles and Bylaws, under direction of its Board of Directors. (These documents are provided upon request). For additional information, please visit our homepage at: http://www.hungary.com/hac____________________ Newsletter editor: Janos Szekeres Graphic Designer: Patricia Olsavszky. We are grateful to all those who contributed articles or information to this Newsletter. "Nothing printed here is to be construed as an attempt to aid or hinder the passage of any legislation before the Congress of the United States or any other legislative body in the U.S. or abroad." __________________ 9 • Hungarian American Coalition • March 2000
