Fraternity-Testvériség, 2003 (81. évfolyam, 1-4. szám)
2003-04-01 / 2. szám
Page 4 TESTVÉRISÉG I acted as the master of ceremonies for the short program. The first to speak during the celebration was the Hon. András Simonyi, Ambassador, who in his uplifting words to the gathered crowd said, “This is the time of which Louis Kossuth dreamed about. We are very proud of the fact that even though later in time, Kossuth’s vision is being fulfdled in our world. Hungary and the United States stand side by side as allies, facing the evils of this world and fighting together for peace, harmony and understanding with all well intentioned citizens of all countries who desire a better world.” Mr. George Dózsa directed the attention of all in attendance to the fact, that we, at the Federation, not only perpetuate the spirit and hope of Louis Kossuth, but stand in constant guard to do everything in our power to see the fulfillment of his dreams in the present and in the future. We, at the Kossuth House, were truly overwhelmed by the outpouring of friendship of our visiting guests. Among the many items that were presented by the Kossuth Wreath Foundation to the Federation was the flag presented by the Mayor of Monok. We have promised that we shall always proudly display this symbol of unity in our building. It would be almost impossible to list all the wonderful memorabilia that was presented to us. We express our special thanks and appreciation to all the members of the tour for their kindness, their friendship, and their many gifts. We shall cherish them always. After the indoor portion of the program, everyone moved outdoors where wreaths were laid in front of the Kossuth Memorial Plaque. The first wreath was presented by Ambassador András Simonyi on behalf of the Republic of Hungary. The next wreath was offered on behalf of the Federation. Another wreath was placed by the greater Hungarian Community of the American Hungarian Federation. Last but not least, a special wreath made in Hungary brought by our visiting guests was offered. This wreath was made by a famous Hungarian straw weaver. Following the ceremonies everyone in attendance joined together in the singing of the Hungarian National Anthem and some Kossuth songs. You cannot imagine the many onlookers who stopped in the very busy Dupont Circle to witness the strong expressions of nationality and proud feeling of oneness as the singing voices united with the vibrant life of the community. After the ceremonies, we were happy to embrace one L. to r.: Rev. Stefan M. Torok, HRFA, President/CEO; Hon. András Simonyi, Ambassador of the Republic of Hungary; George Dózsa, HRFA Chairman; and William B. Puskas, Jr., HRFA Secretary- Treasurer, CFO. another and share a time of fellowship. We said good-bye to one another with the words of the beautiful hymn “Isten velünk viszontlátásra - God be with you ‘til we meet again” next year on the 110th anniversary of the death of Louis Kossuth in Turin, Italy. Rev. Stefan M. Torok President/CEO The Board of Directors of the Hungarian Reformed Federation of America Front row 1. to r.: Clara V. Csikesz; Tibor Nagy; Priscilla Hunyady; Michael Pauli, Jr.; Joseph Fabri; and Joseph Kovács. Back row 1. to r.: Fred Erdei; John K. Morey; László Hamos; William Nicholas; George Dózsa; Rev. Leslie E. Martin; and Rev. Stefan M. Torok. Picture taken by William B. Puskas, Jr. at the Spring Board Meeting held in Washington, D.C., on April 28-May 1, 2003. Kossuth’s portrait in a straw wreath made by a famous Hungarian straw weaver - a gift of the Kossuth Wreath Foundation to the Kossuth House.
