William Penn Life, 2005 (40. évfolyam, 1-12. szám)
2005-01-01 / 1. szám
"In the past the WPA has taken a modest approach on self-promotion, but it's time to let everyone know the successes of our organization." Building on past success to improve our Association by Steve Varga, Chairman of the Board Once again we close a chapter on another year. The Board of Directors would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone a happy, healthy and prosperous New Year. Early in December the Board convened for the final meeting of 2004 to discuss several key issues. First and most important was the Report of Examination by the Pennsylvania Insurance Department. The State Department of Insurance conducted a thorough examination of the Association's business. I am told that this examination lasted several months and was exhaustive. The Board is proud to inform our members that the Association passed with high marks. The Board was informed by our National President that the State Insurance Department had no recommendations, infractions or corrective actions noted against the WPA. This is a testament to our staff and National Officers and the great work they perform each and every day. Congratulations! The other hot topic on the agenda was the reinstatement of the Hungarian Language Camp. The Board voted unanimously to allow Membership Activities Manager Endre Csornán to transform the language camp into a "Hungarian Heritage Experience" that will feature Hungarian cooking, crafts and dancing. For those wishing to read more on this topic, Endre has included an article in this month's issue describing the event in detail. National President George S. Charles Jr. and consultant Roger Nagy presented to the Board the National President's goals for 2005. As part of our new governance policy, it is important that the National President propose goals for the upcoming year and include a strategy for accomplishing these goals. The President listed goals in several key strategic areas: business, finances, fraternal activities, image and evaluations. Just to highlight a one key area, fraternal activities, the President determined that in 2005 the WPA will evaluate the functions of our local branches. We are aware that activities within many branches have been declining at an alarming rate over the past decade, and this is an important area that needs to be examined. Expenses are another concern for the President and the Board in 2005. For the first time the Board required the National President to submit a written budget for fiscal year 2005. The Board reviewed the budget parameters at the October meeting and made the final adjustments at this meeting and voted to approve the 2005 budget. During the upcoming year the Association will also work on promoting its image. In the past the WPA has taken a modest approach on self-promotion, but it's time to let everyone know the successes of our organization. As stated above, the WPA passed a grueling state examination with high marks. We also enjoy a strong financial position as rated by A.M. Best, and the WPA is very active in community services and fraternal activities throughout the country. So it's time to stand tall and be proud. In 2005 the Board will also be moving ahead on other key issues to make the Association stronger. We added a little pizzazz to our 2005 golf weekend by holding it at the Mountaineer Race Track and Gaming Resort in West Virginia. We hope that this will increase turnout. The normal program will be adjusted to ensure that everyone has enough time to enjoy the activities of the resort. If the initial feedback is positive, similar locations will be considered for future bowling and golf tournaments. I encourage everyone to make plans early; it's going to be a hot one. We are also looking for ways to improve the annual picnic. On our list will be increasing activities, especially for our younger members, expanding the food selection and including more vendors. I spoke with Endre several weeks ago, and he is already making plans. Finally, please remember our troops in your prayers. I know the holidays have passed, but there are things that our soldiers still need. The USO website lists several companies that are accepting donations for our troops. Please visit it at www.uso.org, or you can contact your local USO Office. May God protect our men and women and their families and bring them home safe this year. |wpl| William Penn Life, January 2005 3
