Magyar News, 2003. szeptember-2004. augusztus (14. évfolyam, 1-12. szám)
2003-09-01 / 1. szám
Károly Mákos, previous president Gyula Egervári conducting conducting a radio interview this festive celebration at Roberto's in Monroe. As people arrived they were greeted by lively Hungarian music. They had fun recognizing and reminiscing with old friends as they walked down memory lane viewing photographs and memorabilia depicting the last twenty-five years. While the buffet dinner was not prepared by the master chefs of Hungary, all the dishes were quite tasty. However, everyone was delightfully surprised to discover that the desserts were truly Hungarian! One could hear people raving as they reached for a mákos or a diós kalács, Linzer karikák (cookies), Kossuth kifli (crescents), etc. The credit for these delicious sweets goes to wonderful ladies who so happily volunteered knowing it would add to the evening's enjoyment. Erika Papp Faber (former principal of the school) was the master of ceremonies. The program commenced with a prayer, given by Rt. Rev. Dr. János Bütösi and the American National Anthem was song by Cheryl Mayeran. The evening consisted of a lively program during which students had an opportunity to showcase their accomplishments by reciting poems by Sándor Petőfi; one of his poems, having a rhythmic tempo was especially enjoyed as it was song. Attorney Joan I. Farcus presented a proclamation from the Greater Bridgeport Bar Association, Inc. to Magyar Studies of America, Inc. for its numerous invaluable accomplishments. Teachers, supporters and founders were recognized for their valuable efforts and commitment in enabling this organization to thrive and be the success it is today. Gyula Egervári, president, presented Joseph Balogh with a plaque naming him Hungarian of the Year in recognition for his relentless service to the Hungarian cause. Erika Papp Faber had the honor of presenting the new board. Zsuzsa Lengyel, president - brings her proficient command of the Hungarian language as well as her expertise as a leader having served as school principal for the past year; Anikó S. Dowell, vice president-has been a teacher and has graciously accepted this new challenge; Alexis Kiss, secretary-is not only a student but selflessly took on this position when it needed to be filled midyear; Joseph Gergely, treasurer-has diligently performed this task for the past twenty-five years and is enthusiastically looking forward to the new year as well; Karolina Szabó, coordinating director-has been instrumental in aiding the success of the organization; Rita Schuurmans, publicity director- is another student who has stepped forward when there was an unexpected vacancy. The new board was most graciously thanked for accepting their positions and praised for their qualifications which will serve them in meeting the challenges which surely await their attention. A Great Big Thank You goes out to two of our retirees. Mr. Károly Mákos is retiring this year after serving as vice president for many years and has also held the office of the president. Mr. Gyula Egervári has dedicated his whole life to supporting the Hungarian cause not only in Connecticut but wherever he resided. An example of his work elsewhere is his assistance in helping to establish a Hungarian nursing home in Akron, Ohio. Mr. Egervári has served as president and met any task which needed attention to enrich the Magyar Studies of America, Inc. for the past twenty-five years. We commend him for his lifelong dedication to Hungarians and are forever indebted to him for his vision, guidance and leadership. Finally as the evening's celebration ended, the audience was in absolute silence, profoundly moved as they listened to the sound of the Hungarian National Anthem; its spirit embraced each and every one of us! Then Mr. Gyula Egervári asked all teachers past and present to lead the audience in taking part in singing it. What a wonderfully moving experience it was! How appropriate to conclude the ceremonial portion of this special anniversary. Judit Paolini Gyula Egervári presenting Joseph F. Balogh (left) with the "Hungarian of the Year Plaque. Right: Announcing his retirement. Page 5
