Fraternity-Testvériség, 1974 (52. évfolyam, 1-12. szám)
1974-04-01 / 4-6. szám
FIFTY YEARS OF FRATERNALISM . . . Many years ago Hungarians migrated to the city of Wyandotte, Mich., located on the Detroit River near chemical and salt plants where these families earned their living. From this group of Hungarians Branch was organized in April, 1924. The first meeting was held in the home of Mr. Stephen Novotnik of Wyandotte. Ten members were in attendance. Mr. Novotnik was elected as the branch secretary. He held this position for two years and Mr. George Chenchak was then elected and held the position for five years. The management of branch 156 was given to Mr. Novotnik who served the Federation faithfully until October 1, 1957 when be retired. Mr. Gazel Vespremi was then appointed the branch manager of 156, and he is still serving as branch manager as of this date. Gazel Vespremi Ann Rushlow and Gazel Vespremi In 1964 the convention adopted a resolution whereby branches of less than 25 members merge writh other branches, thus Mr. Vespremi was instrumental in having branches 315 and 354 of Caro, Mi. and Carsonville, Mi. merge with branch 156. These branches had consisted of many Hungarians who were farming in Michigan sugar beet country where a number of second generation Hungarians are still farming. Although this area is 100 miles from Mr. Vespremi’s home, he manages to keep in contact with them and trys to visit at least once a year. Branch 156 has a membership of 300. Most members reside in the suburbs of Detroit hut some have moved to Ohio, Florida, California and some other states hut prefer to remain in this branch as Mr. Vespremi keeps in close contact with them. In the vicinity of his home he visits his members, helps them witli their problems and is w-elcomed in all homes as a personal friend. Many of branch 156 members are of tlie second and third generation and come from many backgrounds and denominations such as ministers, teachers, secretaries, school board members, altar boys, laborers and many others but all united in one, that is, the true spirit of security, fraternalism and service rendered by the Federation. As a member of the National Board of Directors of the Hungarian Reformed Federation and Branch Manager of 156, I urge all Hungarians and their friends to unite with us for a greater protection of your insurance needs. Gazel Vespremi • * * ELECTED OFFICERS OF BRANCH 156 Director Gazel Vespremi, Secretary Donna Vespremi, Treasurer Louise Vespremi, President Ann Rushlow, Vice-President Peter Nagy Jr., Controller Steve Kruso (background) The meeting was held as set forth in our by-laws. I was quite surprised that the enthusiasm shown by the people present that will help promote our meetings and the Federation. The officers consist of the lady who is president and the controller are very devout Catholics. Air. Peter Nagy is a member of the Hungarian Reformed Church and Louise my sister and Donna my wife are members of the Grace Reformed Church. The Card Party planned will be entry fee at least S4.00 a member with the expense of the table prizes which will be very nominal and the proceeds to go to the Bethlen Home. 25
