Fraternity-Testvériség, 1965 (43. évfolyam, 1-12. szám)
1965-11-01 / 11. szám
4 FRATERNITY JOSEPH KECSKEMETHY: ITEMS OF INTEREST PARTNERS IN PROGRESS The forty-second annual convention of the Florida State Fraternal Congress was held October 25th at the Cherry Plaza Hotel in Orlando, Florida. The Hungarian Reformed Federation was again represented by Rev. Louis G. Novak of Branch 388, Lakeland, Florida. The theme of the convention was “Fraternalism Through Understanding”. Justice Richard W. Erwin of the Florida State Supreme Court gave the opening address on the theme of the conference. The judge clearly and convincingly presented the underlying philosophy of fraternalism as being found in the Bible, in the Constitution and in legislation. Dr. George McDonald, Deputy Insurance Commissioner of the state of Florida, was the dinner speaker. Using the topic, “Insurance Laws and Fraternal Societies”, Dr. McDonald outlined with statistics the fantastic growth of insurance in America. Already it has reached the staggering figure of 855 billion dollars and is still growing. He stated that his office looks favorably upon the outstanding service and work being accomplished by the fraternal societies, because they are cooperative and present few serious problems. This is due to the ideal of “being my brother’s keeper”. The highlight of the conference was the presence of the National Fraternal Congress’ newly elected president, Miss Louise Patrick, from the national headquarters in Chicago. Miss Patrick, who has over thirty years’ experience in fraternals, gave a stirring address on “Partners in Progress”. She spoke in glowing terms of the work of the fraternal societies, their spirit and their humanitarian appeal. She stressed the importance of developing the field of Junior Business, if we are to perpetuate the ideals and benefits of fraternal societies. Her formula for success is built upon the qualities of understanding, confidence, conviction, enthusiasm, self-confidence, sincerity and skill. The writer of this report was pleased to learn that both President Patrick and Commissioner McDonald are acquainted with the work of our Hungarian Reformed Federation and they asked to be remembered to Secretary Joseph Kecskemethy and other Hungarian fraternal leaders. It was gratifying to know that in Florida the Hungarian Reformed Federation is now well known and recognized along with such groups as the Lutherans, the Woodmen of the World, the Polish Catholics, the Slovene National and other fraternal groups. The Fraternal Congress convention this year proved to be one of the most helpful and inspiring of all conventions. We were glad to represent our Hungarian Reformed Federation and we would all do well to heed the call of President Patrick in challenging us to be partners in progress. REV. LOUIS G. NOVAK
