William Penn Life, 1986 (21. évfolyam, 1-6. szám)

1986 / Különszám

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William Penn Life, Special Centennial Issue, Page 9

disappointed because the Italian movement started sometime around the turn of the century and you started in 1886. So, you were ahead of us.

But you have to wonder why those thirteen coal miners organized as the Verhovay Aid Association back at that time. Let me tell you why. It was a matter of survival in a hostile country because the social scientists of the time were telling us that in order to be a whole American you had to sever your heritage.

It wasn’t until 1942 the social scientists of this world understood that that was a tragic American mistake; that it was the pluralism, and particularly in this area of Pittsburgh, which made this great country the country that it is. Each of us from our ethnic backgroundsbrought some dimension that made this country a great country.

And the question that needs to be asked tonight, rhetorical as it may be, is, is there a need for the existence of a western Pennsylvania society in these times. Indeed, those of us who are in politics would regard that as an extremely sensitive question, because it smacks of being anti-American.

Let me respond. If there was a need in 1886, there is a more critical need in 1986. What is the

rationale? The rationale is that if we don’t teach the second, third and fourth generations of Hungarians what it means to be a Hungarian, except to have a Hungarian name, then we will have lost the key virtues to a great heritage. And that’s what it’s all about.

If I say that for the Hungarian community, I say that for every ethnic group that exists in this great land of ours because we have all made significant contributions; the collectivity of all we can proudly speak of as being American.

I thank you for the opportunity to address you tonight.

Pa. House Honors WPA

The Honorable Emil Mrkonic, member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, has been a great supporter of Hungarian activities in the McKeesport, Pa., area and in the House has always championed the cause of fraternalism. We are happy that you could join us in our celebration. Honorable Emil Mrkonic.

On behalf of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, I would like to present to President Gay B. Banes and the members of the William Penn Association this resolution passed by the House in honor of your society’s 100th anniversary:

“RESOLVED that the House of Representatives of the General Assembly of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania congratulates the William Penn Association on its 100th Anniversary and extends its best wishes for many more years of success.

“WHEREAS, The year 1986 marks the 100th Anniversary of one of America’s outstanding Hungarian-American organizations, the William Penn Association; and

“WHEREAS, From its humble origins in 1886 when 13 Hungarian coal miners banded together to extend the hand of friendship, fraternalism and compassion to their fellow Hungarians who were exploited by the industrial barons of that era; and

“WHEREAS, The Verhovay Association as it was then called, provided affordable life insurance for members and their families and dedicated its efforts to preserving and perpetuating the very important Hungarian culture; and

“WHEREAS, This esteemed organization has experienced an unimpeded growth since its inception because of its steadfast adherence to the principles on which it was founded and is recognized today as one of the most successful and respected fraternal associations in America; and

“WHEREAS, Its members have contributed significantly to the cultural and economic growth of this nation and have distinguished themselves in every field of endeavor, including the participation in the defense of the country in every major military activity of the 20th century; therefore be it

“RESOLVED, That a copy of this resolution be forwarded to the Governor.

“WE Certify that this Resolution was adopted in the House of Representatives on April 30,

1986 by an unanimous vote.”

Signed Emil Mrkonic, sponsor; K. Leroy Irvis, speaker of the House; and John J. Zubeck, chief clerk of the House.

Insurance Dept. Greetings

We had hoped to have our newly-confirmed Pennsylvania insurance commissioner, the Honorable George F. Grode, speak to us. Unfortunately, he had other commitments. His greetings, however, can be found in your program booklet.

Commissioner Grode did request Mr. Richard A. Sebastian from the Pennsylvania Insurance Department to extend the greetings of the department. Mr. Sebastian.

It is indeed a pleasure to be here this evening representing the commissioner at this gala affair. I, too, am a first generation Italian and tonight feel like an honorary Hungarian.

If your next hundred years are as good as your last hundred years, and you keep the theory of taking care of your own, we will all be behind you one-hundred percent. Congratulations.

Exhibit Presented

Dr. Jeno Rande, general secretary of the World Federation of Hungarians in Budapest, has traveled a great distance to celebrate with us. Dr. Rande not only honors us with his presence but also, on behalf of the World Federation, is presenting this 100-year-old Hungarian fraternal benefit society with an exhibit of Magyar folk art and native handicrafts from Hungary. A magnificent gesture. Please welcome Dr. Rande.

Mr. President, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen.

I feel myself privileged tonight to be here with you and I was glad to be able to accept the invitation extended to us by the William Penn Association. Since I came from Hungary, may I be permitted to say a few words in Hungarian.

(After addressing the audience in Hungarian, Dr. Rande delivered his message in English.)

May I be permitted to take this opportunity to wish all of you many successful years to come and wish further success for the William Penn Association.

We in Hungary are very glad of your suc--------------------------------------------------------Continued on next page

Richard A. Sebastian of the Pennsylvania Insurance Department extended greetings to the Association on behalf of State Insurance Commissioner George F. Grode.

Pennsylvania State Representative Emil Mrkonic presents to National President Gay B. Banes a resolution passed by the State House honoring the Association’s centennial.

Pennsylvania State Senator Edward Zemprelli delivered an em passioned speech which drew much loud applause from the banquet guests.