William Penn Life, 1972 (7. évfolyam, 1-4. szám)
1972-04-01 / 2. szám
Minutes of the Board of Directors Quarterly Meeting EXCERPTS — MARCH 13-15, 1972 NATIONAL FLAG DAY Members of more than 100 fraternal benefit societies in the United States will join with other millions of patr’o'ic Americans in observing National Flag Day, June 14. National Flag Day is especially meaningful to them because it is the highlight of FRATERNAL WEEK, whose theme for 1972 is “Faith in Fraternity.” Annually, officials of the National Fraternal Congress of America have designated the week in June that encompasses National Flag Day as an occasion for special observance by their more than ten million members. This year, Fraternal Week will be observed June 8 through 14. During this period, fraternalists remind all Americans that a rebirth of patriotism is needed during these troubled times in order to focus attention on the enduring values of our free society. One way to do that, is for all citizens to fly “Old Glory” whenever possible, but especially on National Flag Day, June 14. Fraternalists are urged to participate in patriotic ceremonies honoring the Flag of the United States on National Flag Day and to conduct special activities during Fraternal Week calling the attention of the general public to the importance of fraternalism and of the many civic and community services which it inspires. The effort has been endorsed by leaders of government at all levels with many heads of states and municipalities having issued proclamations calling upon citizens to render appropriate attention to National Flag Day and Fraternal Week. June 14 has been National Flag Day since 1916 when President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed it so. Back in 1885, it was like any other day — except that it was the last day of school in Fredonia, Wisconsin. Bernard J. Cigrand, the nineteenyear-old schoolmaster for Fredonia’s Stony Hill School, wanted his pupils to carry their lessons of Americanism throughout their summer vacation. So, before dismissing them, he gathered them into a quiet circle in the schoolyard and conducted a brief flag-raising ceremony. As the Flag jerked up the branchless sapling that served as a flagpole, he mused that everybody should be carrying with them the lessons of Americanism — year ’round, throughout their lives. He conceived a sort of “I Am Glad To Be An American” day while doing graduate work and continued his efforts to promote this idea. But, it was not until Dr. Bernard J. Cigrand had become Dean of the Illinois School of Dentistry that President Wilson signed his patriotism into law as National Flag Day. American fraternalists, specifically the members of the National Fraternal Flag Day Foundation and of the National Fraternal Congress of America, have taken up the cause of Dr. Cigrand. Thus, does Fraternal Week always encompass National Flag Day. 1. National President Elmer Charles opened the meeting at 10:00 A. M. He welcomed the Board Members on behalf of his fellow officers and employees to the Spring session of the Board of Directors Meeting. The National Fraternal Flag Day Foundation has made a simple, quiet shrine of the Stony Hill Schoolhouse, and, each year, they too conduct a flag raising ceremony in the schoolyard dedicated simply to making the American Flag and the lessons in Americanism which it represents more meaningful to all Americans. BRANCH HIGH-LIGHTS Continued from page 5 Mrs. Annabel Karoly and Mr. David Morales. Next on the agenda, is of course, our National Bowling Tournament where, this year, Philadelphia will be the host. Details are elsewhere in our newsletter, but we are hoping all our local friends, and nearby Branches will also make the effort to attend this gala event, ending with our great Dinner Dance Banquet. Members, remember summer is coming and with it our plans for our Annual Picnic are in full swing. The date is July 30, 1972 - so please circle that date NOW - July 30th at the Philadelphia Hungarian Club. Bring your friends and kiddies along for a day of fun and games. We always have such a good time, don’t miss it! Remember - July 30th, 12 Noon till ?? - and for your dancing and listening pleasure the Gypsy Hungarian music as usual. I guess that’s it for now folks. Until we meet at the Sheraton Hotel in Philadelphia, May 26th for the start of our Bowling Tournament and Banquet, we’ll be seeing you, and GOOD LUCK to all! Your reporter, Julie Melnick 278 Omaha, Neb. Gasper Kuti passed away February 6, 1972. He was born May 19, 1901 in Longron, Ohio. He became a member of Verhovay in 1924 and took an active part in its affairs and growth. He held the offices of President and Treasurer for more than 25 years and was awarded the Illustrious Citation from the home office for his outstanding service to the association. We extend our heartfelt sympathies to the bereaved family. May he rest in peace. Elizabeth Papp, Branch Secretary Mr. Charles explained to the Board that his Report to the Board of Directors was a little late because of his recent hospitalization. He hoped each and every member had the opportunity to review and study his report. President Charles expressed sincere thanks and appreciation for the many well wishes he received while he was confined to the hospital. He thanked the National Officers for their assistance during the most crucial time of the year which was the preparation of the Annual Statement. Through the fine cooperation of the National Officers and employees of the Association Annual Statement for 1971 was prepared and submitted on time. He further stated he was always in close contact with our legal counsel and fellow Officers while he was confined to the hospital. Since the Board Meeting in November, the operation of the Association progressed smoothly. The Executive Committee met on two occasions. Many serious subjects will be discussed and deliberated. The Agenda is full, but as in the past he hopes the deliberations which will come forth will be fruitful and always with the best interest of our Association in mind. It was with deep sorrow that President Charles reported the death of the following members: First he reported the sudden and untimely death of our esteemed employee, Stephen Úsztok, our Field Representative from Branch 18, Detroit, Michigan. President Charles states that he had said many a eulogy for former Directors and National Officers and he felt that Stephen Úsztok certainly deserved to be eulogized at this time. President Charles reminded us that Stephen Úsztok was a great Hungarian. Stephen Úsztok had undying interest in Hungarian life, culture, his writings and with the best interest he served the William Penn Fraternal Association. He was trustful, always willing to get things done. His motto was always let’s not put off something for tomorrow that can be done today. Detroit, Michigan and the William Penn Fraternal Association suffered a great loss in the death of Stephen Úsztok because of his dedication to our Association and deep involvement in Hungarian activities in Detroit and vicinity. President Charles further reported the death of James Emody, Manager of Branch 70, Newark, New Jersey and an Illustrious Member, Alex Simon, Illustrious Member and former Manager of Branch 81, Williamsport, Pennsylvania; Peter Toth, Illustrious Member of Branch 98, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania; Peter Gancsos, II-10
