William Penn Life, 2018 (53. évfolyam, 1-12. szám)

2018-09-01 / 9. szám

A special tribute to Valentine followed: the reading of the lyrics to "Kossuth Lajos" by instructor Markovits. This was Valentine's signature performance at previous years' programs.

Finally, a circle dance concluded the students' part of the program.

Then, Rev. Gabor Nitsch, director of pastoral care at Bethlen Communities in nearby Ligonier, gave the invocation before dinner was served. In addition to the kettlecooked gulyás, other foods served included kolbász and hurka and a huge decorated sheet cake, courtesy of WPA Branch 8 Johnstown, Pa., along with Hungarian delicacies baked by Elizabeth Krajcz.

The after-dinner program began with Fraternal Director Barbara House, organizer of the Experience, again welcoming everyone and commenting on this year's group of students. "I am so very proud of them. This year everyone took part in the activities," she said. House then introduced the guests, including WPA Chair of the Board Andrew McNelis and other WPA officials.

House and the instructors, distributed graduation certificates to the students and a gift from WPA. Each student also received a small bottle of wine decorated with a special label, donated by National Director Joyce Nicholson.

Music for listening and dancing was provided by the George Bátyi Ensemble.

First-year student Brian Weber, a retired farmer from Meadville, said the highlight of the evening was meeting Judit Ganchuk, fraternal department secretary, in person. "She was so kind and helpful during our many phone conversations," he said.

Students and staff brought items for a raffle, and a profit of $267 was donated to the William Penn Fraternal Association Scholarship Foundation. McNelis said next year will mark the Scholarship Foundation's 50th anniversary, and it plans to award about $87,000 in scholarships.

The evening ended all too soon, and everyone retired to prepare for departure Saturday morning. All of the students commented favorably on the experience. Marita Maloney called it, "an invigorating week. A time to renew friendships and to make the acquaintances of newcomers." Many complimented the patience and experience of the instructors and appreciated the hard work and dedication of the staff.

Barbara Bernard summed up the experience: "Throughout the week, I enjoyed myself - yet again - and will leave with a tear wanting to drip down my face."

Loretta Nemeth is a member of Branch 14 Cleveland, OH.

IBP