(USPS 500-660)
JULY 11, 2013
PUBLICATION FOSTERING FRATERNAL, CULTURAL &
PHYSICAL EDUCATION ACTIVITIES SINCE JULY 14, 1905
Entered as Second-Class Matter, February 7, 1980 at East Orange, New Jersey under the act of August 24, 1912, provided in Sec. 1103, Act of October 3, 1918 authorized July 3, 1918
Central Jersey gymnasts conclude another successful season. In front row from left are Wyatt Kovac, Molly McCabe, Emeline Kovac, Samantha Glazner, Lucy
McCabe and Katie Kovac; and, in the second row, Robert Koch, Catherine Koch, Chelsea Walsh, Philip Rehwinkel, William Rehwinkel, John Koch, Elizabeth
Rehwinkel, Madeline Rehwinkel and Rachel Glazner. Instructors, in back row from left, are Wanda Koch, Neechee Rehwinkel, Lance Kovac, Ellen Kovac and
Julia Valentin. Co-Director Norah Valentin and Brandi Kovac, who designed our Sokol USA 12 shirts, are missing from the photo.
From the
President’s View
As I write this article, the
Fourth
of
July
is
fast
approaching. We will celebrate
the anniversary of our Country’s
independence. Many people will
have family outings and picnics
as part of their festivities. This
country was founded on the
principles
of
liberty
and
democracy and has been a
beacon of these values to other
countries for centuries.
At the end of June, I returned
from Sokol Slovenia’s 150-year
anniversary celebration. Many
Sokols came from all parts of the
world to join Sokol Slovenia to
celebrate this great occasion.
The festivities included a Slet,
the presentation of an award by
the president of Sokol Slovenia,
a fascinating exhibition of
Slovenian Sokol history at the
National Gallery of Art and many
other festive fraternal events.
The events were a showcase of
Sokol values and hospitality.
Brother and Sister Sokols from a
diverse number of countries
greeted each other, socialized,
and shared Sokol fellowship. It is
at events like this when one
clearly sees Sokol brotherhood
and values in action. The next
issue of the Sokol Times will
Joseph Bielecki
contain many photographs of the
delegates will share Sokol
Sokol Slovenia Slet and events.
At the end of July, our Sokol experiences and values. They
USA National Convention will will also address very serious
(Continued on Page 3)
occur in Bethlehem, Pa. Our
Lodge 12 prepares
for 115th anniversary
On Friday, June 14th, the gymnasts and instructors of
Lodge 12 held an end-of-year program at our new home,
Henderson's, in Edison, N.J.
Next year will be the 115th anniversary of Lodge 12,
originally of Newark and now Central Jersey. We are proud
of having been able to maintain our gymnastics program
despite not having a Sokol Hall since 1967, 46 years ago.
Innumerable individuals and families, dedicated to the Sokol
ideals of a “Sound Mind in a Sound Body,” are responsible
for the longevity of Central Jersey.
We will resume our classes, including progressions of
gymnastics and related activities from beginner on up, in
September.
Anyone interested in joining us is encouraged to contact
Ellen Kovac at [email protected] or Norah Valentin at
[email protected].
Page 2
07-11-13
Do you know
where I am?
official organ of the
SLOVAK GYMNASTIC UNION SOKOL
OF THE USA
Published monthly on the 2
nd
Sokol USA is trying to locate the following members.
If you know the whereabouts of any of these “missing” members,
please contact Headquarters at:
Telephone: 973-676-0280
Toll Free: 888-253-0362
Fax: 973-676-3348
E-mail: [email protected]
Thursday of the month.
SOKOL OFFICE:
Telephone: (973) 676-0280
Toll Free: (888) 253-0362
FAX (973) 676-3348
E-mail: [email protected]
All communication for publication should be sent
to Editor at P.O. Box 189, East Orange, NJ 07019
by the 22nd of the previous month.
Second Class postage paid in East Orange, NJ
Annual Subscription for non-members is $10.00
PENNSYLVANIA FRATERNAL
ALLIANCE 2013 SCHOLARSHIP
The Scholarship Committee of the Pennsylvania Fraternal
Alliance is announcing that the 2013 applications are now
available for the annual Scholarship Program.
Applications can be obtained through eligible members of
a Fraternal Benefit Society belonging to the Pennsylvania
Fraternal Alliance or by visiting the website of the
Pennsylvania Fraternal Alliance at www.pafraternal.org.
Applicants must:
• Be a resident of Pennsylvania and a member of a
Fraternal Benefit Society that is a member of the
Pennsylvania Fraternal Alliance.
• Be a 2013 high school graduate attending an accredited
college, university, trade school, etc. in the summer/fall
of 2013 as a full-time student (12 semester credits).
• Obtain a recommendation letter from their Fraternal
Benefit Society.
• Submit a 500-word essay on: “The impact of a
Fraternal Organization on your daily life, family and
community.”
Return the completed application, essay and letter of
recommendation, postmarked no later than September
1, 2013.
At least one $500 scholarship will be awarded. Additional
scholarships may be awarded depending upon available
funds.
If you or your society has not received the information on
the Pennsylvania Fraternal Alliance Scholarship, please
contact Charlotte L. Androckitis, FIC, Pennsylvania
Fraternal Alliance Scholarship Chairperson, at the Polish
Union of the US of NA, P.O. Box 660, Wilkes-Barre, PA
18703-0660. You can also call 570-823-1611 or e-mail
[email protected]
JULY 11, 2013
SOKOL TIMES
Name
Lodge
City
State
BERDELL, FRANK
BOTOS, JOHN
BROWN, PATRICIA
BURAN, MILTON
CHRISTIAN, LOUIS
COOPER, ANNA
DAVIS, NANCY ELAINE
DOCKTOR, JOHN
DULIN, ANNA
DURIS, ALBERT
EBERLY, SHIRLEY
ELLO, MICHAEL
FAIX, ROBERT
GAJDZIK, MARY
GALLIK, EDWARD
GASPAROVIC, MATILDA
HABOVSKY, RAYMOND
20
130
191
158
219/260
45/130
93
126/500
31W/254/500
248
29/500
248
130
46
26
11W/46
146/103
FORD CITY
NEW KENSINGTON
CHICAGO
ENDICOTT
CANTON
TARENTUM
BETHELEHEM
ELLSWORTH
ERIE
ROSSFORD
TRENTON
ROSSFORD
NEW KENSINGTON
MCKEESPORT
GUTTENBERG
MCKEESPORT
FARRELL
PA
PA
IL
NY
OH
PA
PA
PA
PA
OH
NJ
OH
PA
PA
NJ
PA
PA
HEFFERNAN, IRENE
HUTKA, AGNES
KILLIAN, EDWARD
KOBULARIK, MICHAEL
KOTASEK, FRANK
KRALIK, HARRY
KUBILUS, ANN
KYPTA, FRANK
LISTON, ELIZABETH
LUKASIK,WILLIAM
LYDA, JOHN
MALINOVSKY, ANDREW
MCGRATH, MARGARET B
MIGNOGNA, HELEN
PELKER, STELLA
POSNEY, ROBERT
PUSKAR, JOHN
REHOR, ANNA
RESAR, GEORGE
ROVNAN, MARY
SADLON, EDWARD
SCAFE, MARY
SEVICIK, ALBERT
SPECKHART, EDWARD
STALTER, ANNA
STEVESAND, OLGA
THEIS,WALTER
URSIN, JOHN
VASECKA, CHARLES
VILK,WILLIAM
VOJTKO, EMERY
WALCROFT, HELEN
WILHELM, FRANCES
YELLEN, ROBERT
ZBORIL, ANNA
ZIOLKOWSKI, DANIEL
ZUCHOWSKI, ROBERT
154/500
276
248
46
273/37
93
19W/500
26
68
315/306/114
20
92/103
159/500
128/130
248
130
130
2W/1
150
45/130
30
20
257/260
92/103
65/32
98/3
260
28/500
27/500
62
37
28/500
130
66/1
112/164
17/500
248
NORTH CHICAGO
PITTSBURGH
ROSSFORD
MCKEESPORT
WILKES BARRE
BETHELEHEM
DERBY
GUTTENBERG
BLAISVILLE
CHICAGO
FORD CITY
LORAIN
ELIZABETH
SPRINGDALE
ROSSFORD
NEW KENSINGTON
NEW KENSINGTON
BRIDGEPORT
RACINE
TARENTUM
DANBURY
FORD CITY
LAKEWOOD
LORAIN
ROCKAWAY
RACINE
CLEVELAND
DUQUESNE
MASONTOWN
AMBRIDGE
MALTBY
DUQUESNE
NEW KENSINGTON
TRAVIS, S.I.
DETROIT
JERSEY CITY
ROSSFORD
IL
PA
OH
PA
PA
PA
CT
NJ
PA
IL
PA
OH
NJ
PA
OH
PA
PA
CT
WI
PA
CT
PA
OH
OH
NJ
WI
OH
PA
PA
PA
PA
PA
PA
NY
MI
NJ
OH
JULY 11, 2013
SOKOL TIMES
Page 3
th
90 Annual Slovak Day at Kennywood Park
The 90th Annual Slovak Day
th
will be Thursday, July 18 at
Kennywood Park, West Mifflin,
Pa. It will be an exciting day for
Americans of Slovak descent
and an opportunity to celebrate
their heritage with each other
while enjoying colorful displays,
authentic costumes, a Slovak
liturgy, spectacular Slovak Folk
Dance
performances,
scrumptious Slovak food, special
children’s activities as well as
foot-tapping music for dancing.
These combined will build a
treasure chest of memories –
many to be remembered and still
more waiting to be created.
A highlight of Slovak Day will
be the con-celebration of the
Slovak Liturgy in the Main
Pavilion
directly
behind
“Garfield’s Revenge.” The Main
Celebrant of the Liturgy will be
Reverend
Thomas
Nasta,
Chaplain of the First Catholic
Slovak Union, along with several
Catholic
priests
from
the
Pittsburgh,
Greensburg
and
Johnstown-Altoona
Dioceses.
Immediately following is the
vibrant repertoire of Slovak
music, songs and dances
presented by the Pittsburgh Area
Slovak Folk Ensemble (PAS) and
the Pittsburgh Slovakians.
Taste buds will be tantalized
at the Slovak Kitchen, where
revelers can enjoy holubky
(stuffed cabbage), haluski (sweet
cabbage and noodles), and
kolbasy. Sweet tooth desires can
Got Insurance?
Introducing Sokol USA’s NEW
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You will not be turned down because of age
Pay Once, Have Coverage for Life
Minimum Policy is $3,000
$3,000 Policy
$5,000 Policy_____________
Newborns:
Newborns:
Age 5:
Age 18:
Age 21:
Age 30:
Age 40:
Age 65:
$213 for males
$180 for females
$252 for males
$213 for females
$399 for males
$342 for females
$432 for males
$372 for females
$567 for males
$504 for females
$792 for males
$705 for females
$1,695 for males
$1,512 for females
Age 5:
Age 18:
Age 21:
Age 30:
Age 40:
Age 65:
$355 for males
$300 for females
$420 for males
$355 for females
$665 for males
$570 for females
$720 for males
$620 for females
$945 for males
$840 for females
$1,320 for males
$1,175 for females
$2,825 for males
$2,520 for females
$10,000 Policy
Newborns:
Age 5:
Age 18:
Age 21:
Age 30:
Age 40:
Age 65:
$710 for males
$600 for females
$840 for males
$710 for females
$1,330 for males
$1,140 for females
$1,440 for males
$1,240for females
$1,890 for males
$1,680 for females
$2,640 for males
$2,350 for females
$5,650 for males
$5,040 for females
For a complete list of rates by age, please contact your local Lodge
or Sokol USA Headquarters at 888-253-0362 or
[email protected]
be satisfied with the homemade
favorite – ceregi. Enjoy this
delicious dinner or a la carte
foods and relax amid the echoes
of Slovakia, as the strolling
musicians play all of the “Slovak
favorites.” Food will be served in
Pavilion #4 behind the ride
“Garfield’s Revenge” from 12:30
p.m. until the food is sold out.
In Pavilion # 3, participants
will be able to see an exhibit on
“Odpust,” Slovak Pilgrimages,
prepared by the PAS Junior and
Maly Ensembles. The exhibit will
include Slovak heirlooms of folk
treasures
that
show
the
incredible skill and artistry found
in the Slovak villages.
In the Main Pavilion #5, there
will be Slovak Cultural Displays
provided
by
the
Slovak
Fraternals as well as the popular
“Kroj,” Slovak National Costumes
Exhibit.
A special youth area will
feature activities just for children.
The children’s program will
include games and treats
beginning at 12:30 p.m. by the
Main Pavilion. Every child
participating in these activities
will receive a free treat.
th
To conclude the 90 Annual
Slovak Day, one can sit back and
enjoy the music or kick up your
heels dancing, grab a partner
and twirl to traditional Slovak
music of the George Batyi
Ensemble in front the Main
Pavilion directly after the main
program.
For a day to remember, join
th
all Slovaks on Thursday July 18
in Kennywood Park. The cost of
tickets are $24 for Fun Day
General Admission, $14 for
those 55 years of age and over,
plus a coupon will be available
for those 70 years and over to be
paid at the gate for $10 plus tax.
Tickets
and
coupons
are
available by contacting Dolores
Sakal at 412-243-0438 or Rev.
Joseph Grosko at 412-466-6545.
LODGE 2 SOKOL USA
BRIDGEPORT, CONN.,
AWARDS SCHOLARSHIPS
Sokol USA Lodge 2 in Bridgeport, Conn., awarded three
scholarships through its scholarship program, it was announced by
Lodge President Miguel Alicea. “In 2013, we again awarded three
high school seniors with a $1,000 scholarship award,” said Alicea.
“The quality and achievements of all seven applicants was so
strong that we agreed to increase our plan from two awards to
three.”
Lodge Secretary John Kamenitsky continued: “These students
exhibited an array of achievements from high scholastic
achievements, to athletic prowess, even a quarterback of a twotime State championship football team, to hospital volunteers to
participants in Habitat of Humanity programs and many with close
ties to their Churches,” he noted. “Their essays about their Slovak
roots were both interesting and entertaining and, as you might
expect, traditional food treats topped the list.”
FROM THE
PRESIDENT’S VIEW
(Continued from Page 1)
and important questions regarding the future of Sokol USA. I urge
all who attend the National Convention to come prepared to
discuss these issues and to give great thought in their
deliberations at the convention of the issues facing them. There
will be activities for the delegates to share Sokol fraternalism, such
as a banquet. There will also be activities to benefit our members,
such as a silent auction to benefit the Sokol USA Scholarship
Fund.
It is my hope that the spirit of fraternalism which I saw at Sokol
Slovenia’s anniversary and which I have seen at our Sokol USA
events will be present at our convention. The convention will be a
wonderful opportunity for the delegates to share the Sokol spirit
while at the same time addressing and securing the future of our
society.
NAZDAR!
Joseph Bielecki
President
Page 4
JULY 11, 2013
SOKOL TIMES
PITTSBURGH
LODGE 276
HAS MEETING
Happy 65 Wedding Anniversary
nd
The June 2 Pittsburgh Sokol
Lodge 276 meeting was held at
the Holy Emmanuel Lutheran
Church in Pittsburgh, Pa, in the
auditorium as usual. Attending
were officers and President
Carolyn Coleman. An afternoon
Nzdar sounded with respect and
the Pledge of Allegiance was
recited.
The
coming
merger
convention, taking place from
July 27th to 31st in Bethlehem,
Pa., will be represented by
members Patricia and Gerald
Blistan for MCT and President
Coleman and Matthew M.
Blistan, Sr. from Lodge 276.
Sokol Supreme President
Joseph Bielecki and Sokol
Supreme Secretary Milan Kovac
attended this meeting and
encouraged all policy holders to
update their important policy
information needed to satisfy the
service questions.
The July and August summer
meetings for Lodge 276 are set
aside and will begin again on
Sunday, September 8th. Enjoy
your summer!
Sokol and Church picnic will
be held at Evergreen Park on
th
August 4 . Happy Sister Irene
Bertzel won the raffle of the day.
th
th
Marian and John Resetar of New Kensington, Pa., celebrated their 65 wedding anniversary on April 24 . They were
married in 1948 and are members of Sokol USA Lodge 130 in New Kensington. At left, they are pictured as newlyweds and,
at right, as they celebrate their anniversary today.
Nazdar
Amelia Blistan
Reporter for Lodge 276
Frequently Asked Questions about the Proposed Merger
In response to questions that have been presented concerning our pending merger
with GBU Financial Life, the following are answers or responses. Please continue to
send your questions concerning merger to Headquarters. Thank you.
Milan S. Kovac
Supreme Secretary
#1: ADVANTAGES
-Sokol fraternal programs will be our primary focus.
-Sokol will retain its fraternal identity and governance over all existing Sokol Lodges.
-Sokol USA is no longer responsible to underwrite, process or administer or pay claims
for death or surrender.
-GBU provides policy services to our members.
#2: BENEFITS OF A LARGE FRATERNAL
-Reduces expenses via the economy of scale.
-Meets costly compliance and regulatory issues.
-Provides marketing opportunities.
-Offers a distribution system (agents).
-Engages in product development.
#3: Is the State of New Jersey forcing this merger?
-Sokol USA is not under any pressure by regulatory authorities.
#4: Are there other states with more favorable conditions for fraternals?
-More fraternals are domiciled in Illinois and Pennsylvania.
-It is costly to re-domicile; Sokol USA is a well-managed fraternal.
-Sokol USA does not have any issues with the NJ DOBI.
#5: What happens in the next four years if we do not merge?
-Sustained financial well being becomes more difficult each year.
-Results depend upon leadership, economic environment and management.
#6: What is negatively impacting Sokol USA’s financial well being?
-Declining membership.
-Lack of insurance sales.
-Declining investment income.
-Additional compliance and regulatory fees.
-Lack of a professional distribution system (agents).
#7: Are there alternatives to merging at this time?
Status quo will result in a:
-Decline in membership.
-Decline in active membership.
-Decline in investment income.
-Decline in assets.
#8: Can operations be economized in order to prevent a merger at this time?
-Sokol USA has one of the lowest cost operators in the fraternal field.
-There is very little expense that can be cut.
#9: Did Sokol USA receive offers from other fraternal organization?
-The Supreme Lodge decided to seek proposals from non-sectarian societies.
-Three fraternal societies made presentations: The Royal Arcanum, Boston, Mass.; NSS
Life (National Slovak Society), McMurray, Pa.; and GBU Financial Life, Pittsburgh, Pa.
#10: Why has the process of merger been decided by only the Supreme Lodge (SL)?
-The SL is the executive and managing body of Sokol USA, as described in Article III of
the by-laws.
-The 2009 convention charged the SL to review all options for the future of the society.
After many meetings with much deliberation and consideration, the SL is recommending
to merge with GBU Financial Life as the best merger partner for SOKOL USA
membership.
-The final decision is up to the Convention delegates.
#11: The SL sets a course or policy for action.
-The SL has devoted a great deal of time toward this project.
-The action presented is subject to legislative approval by the Convention.
#12: Why are we being presented with only one merger partner at the Convention?
-The SL reviewed the three merger opportunities and proposals in detail.
-The best possible merger candidate is being presented to the Convention.
#13: Why weren’t all possible merger partners given an opportunity to present proposals
at the Convention?
-Merger proposals were very detailed and involved much analysis. Multiple proposals
being presented at the Convention would not give Sokol USA the necessary opportunity
(Continued on Page 6)
JULY 11, 2013
SOKOL TIMES
Page 5
At left, participants in the Farrell Golf Tournament head to their golf carts at the beginning of play. At right, retiring President of Sokol USA Farrell, Brother
Melvin Slezak, fires his “antique” shotgun to signal the start of play.
Sokol USA Farrell 4th Annual Golf Scramble a Huge Success
The sky was overcast, but not
really
threatening
rain.
The
temperature was in the low 70s. It
was a perfect day for the Sokol
th
USA Farrell 4
Annual Golf
Scramble at Shenango Lake Golf
Club in nearby Transfer, Pa. A
total of 28 teams had entered and
were all present and accounted for.
In all, 112 golfers were lined up and
ready to go to their positions for the
“shot gun” start. And a “shotgun”
start it was! Brother Melvin Slezak,
retiring President of Sokol Farrell,
pulled out his “antique” shotgun to
signal the start of play with a “blast”
that could be heard not only on
Shenango Lake Golf Club, but
possibly on a few others also. It
was a great beginning for a great
day.
The start was prompt and the
golfers began completing their
games about 2 p.m. There were
refreshments placed strategically at
certain holes on the course: hot
dogs with Tim’s homemade chili
sauce and refreshments at the turn,
and a huge steak complete with all
the trimmings at the end.
Top prize was $800, the second
place team took home $400 and
the third place team received $200.
There was the possibility of winning
a brand new Chevy Silverado and
$5,000 in cash for holes in one,
which unfortunately no one won.
Scramble Chairman and newly elected President of Sokol USA Farrell,
Brother Tim Brandt, announces the results and winners of the various prizes.
But, other prizes were abundant: a
deluxe package at a local hotel,
VIP seats and parking for a
Pittsburgh Pirates baseball game,
cash prizes, and many, many more.
Newly elected President of
Sokol USA Farrell, Tim Brandt, was
chairman of the event. It was
through his tireless efforts that this
event was the huge success that it
was. But, he was capably backed
up by his wife Sherry, Lodge
Financial
Secretary
Melissa
Flickinger, Melvin Slezak, Lodge
Treasurer Dorothy Slezak, Lodge
Vice President Sasha Banjak,
Gymnastic
Director
Stephen
Banjak, Chris Pegg, Gymnastic
Director Bibi Murcko, Suzana
Murcko, Sally and Dick Glover,
Ludmilla Vaskova, Gerry and
Peggy Slezak, Val Hurst-Tamura,
Roberta Pegg, Sadie and Janel
Brandt, Lili and Ava Glover, Juliann
Hurst-Tamura, Heidi Floch, Randy
Webster and Alex Banjak.
We were also happy to have our
brother and sister Sokols from
Sokol USA New Kensington and
Leechburg with us.
From Sokol USA New Kensington (from left) are Brandon, Pam, Gerry and
Brian Cernicky.
We send all of our golfers, our
workers and those Sokols who
traveled a distance to get here, a
hearty Nazdar for their participation
in this great event.
At left, from Sokol USA Leechburg are (from left) Bob Connoll, Terry Young, Joe Dubovi and Charles Vernon. At right, a huge steak, complete with all the
trimmings, was enjoyed by all after the tournament.
Page 6
SOKOL TIMES
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
(Continued from Page 4)
for a full and proper analysis of a merger partner.
-The following factors were reviewed for each potential candidate: Financial strength,
future growth potential, past merger experience, current administrative systems and
staffing, distribution system, portfolio of insurance and annuity products that will be
available to members, and continuation of the Sokol fraternal programs.
-After interviewing the three potential candidates, the SL has selected the best
candidate.
#14: Why did the Supreme Lodge choose GBU as the best offer?
GBU offered the strongest proposal including:
-Distribution of excess surplus is determined by Sokol USA.
-Retention of our elected SL for five years versus a two-year period.
-Appointment of our gymnastic directors to the GBU Fraternal Activity Committee.
#15: GBU also offered:
-$15,000 contribution per year, for five years, toward our Sokol programs.
-In addition to the $3.25 per member that is contributed annually, Sokol youth can
participate in the GBU Scholarship Program
in addition to the Sokol Milan Getting Scholarship Program.
-GBU awarded more than $80,000 in scholarships last year.
#16: Why is GBU interested in Sokol USA?
-GBU considers Sokol USA to be a strong, viable partner.
-Sokol USA membership adds 5,000 members to GBU.
-GBU is interested in the Sokol programs and believes in the proliferation of our health
and sports programs.
# 17: Why should Sokol USA be interested in GBU?
-GBU is a billion-dollar, asset-size society.
-GBU has a conservative view in accounting and investing, and a fully transparent
operation.
-GBU’s solvency is 105.6, which is considerably higher than the other candidates.
-GBU’s administration and operations are highly sophisticated.
#18: GBU has previous merger agreements with:
-Hungarian Reformed Federation
-United Lutheran Society (ULS)
-Lutheran Fraternities of America Life
#19: GBU has a record of being good to merger partners.
-All partners continue to conduct their original society programs without interference.
-Each former society acts as their own GBU District, enabling them to retain their
particular identity and govern their former lodges or assemblies as prior to the merger.
#20: How will Sokol USA members’ additional paid-up life benefits be determined by
GBU?
-The additional benefits will be determined by Sokol USA’s actuary.
-The formula involves a person’s age, current cash value and length of time in Sokol.
#21: At the Convention, is there any room for negotiation? (ie: If we agree with the idea
of a merger, but don’t like the agreement.)
-No, the Supreme Lodge has spent many hours negotiating the best agreement for
Sokol USA and believes the agreement is fair to all parties.
-The boards of both societies are in agreement.
-The merger is subject to the approval of each society’s membership.
#22: What are the demographics of GBU’s membership?
-The membership demographics of both societies are similar in regard to average age,
and are reflective of this nation.
JULY 11, 2013
#28: Would any of GBU’s current members want to join in our activities?
-GBU will encourage their members to participate with Sokol programs.
-GBU looks to Sokol USA for its leadership and experience in assisting and
coordinating current and future physical activity programs.
#29: What remains in control of the local lodge?
-The local lodge retains control of all of its assets and programs.
#30: Will this merger have any impact on lodges owning their own property and funds?
-Lodges will continue to manage their own assets, providing there is transparency.
#31: Do the lodges have to incorporate?
-The incorporation will apply to lodges having a liquor license and real estate.
-Most Sokol USA lodges with property already have a separate corporation.
#32: Will each lodge’s assets remain separate from other lodges?
-Each lodge will retain control of its assets.
#33: What gets transferred to GBU?
-All assets under the auspices of the S.G.U. SOKOL U.S.A. Headquarters. This
includes stocks and bonds, real estate, mortgages, collateral loans, cash and the
home office.
#34: What will the role of the local lodge secretary or financial secretary be?
-Handle the lodge’s invoices for local lodge dues.
-Serve as a liaison between the Sokol District Officers and their lodge members.
#35: Will the current Sokol USA Districts be dissolved?
-The Sokol USA Districts should decide their own fate.
#36: What happens to the Sokol Camp Organization after the merger?
-Slovak Sokol Camp of NJ will be dissolved as soon as its assets are sold and
obligations met.
#37: What happens to the Sokol Camp Growth Fund after the merger?
-The Growth Fund will be dissolved after paying its obligations.
-The principal sums of money will be returned to the participating Lodges and Districts.
-GBU offers a similar program called a “District Escrow” account. The present interest
rate is 4.5 percent.
#38: Will Milan Getting Scholarship (MGS) recipients be eligible for renewals?
-The MGS program will continue to offer renewals and new scholarships yearly.
-Sokol USA members may also apply for a GBU scholarship.
#39: Will Sokol USA still be able to host a Sokol Slet?
-It is our intention to continue holding Slets.
#40: Will Sokol USA continue membership in the world-wide body of Sokols?
-It is our intention to remain active in the International Sokol movement.
SOKOL USA
276 Prospect St.
P.O. Box 189
East Orange, NJ 07019
#23: What are GBU’s expectations of our athletics programs in terms of the number of
participants, new policies, budgets, etc.?
-There are no preconceived notions about the number of participants.
-Sokol USA will continue to maintain our programs with discretion on spending within
our new Sokol USA District structure.
-New Sokol members will be required to purchase a GBU insurance policy or an
annuity, though the document headings will read: SOKOL USA…Division of GBU.
-GBU hopes some of our programs can be adapted or collaborated with other GBU
districts.
Brothers and Sisters:
#24: In five years, what will affect GBU’s decision as to what to do with us?
-It all depends on us, the Sokol USA members, and our programs.
-All past GBU merger partners still retain their original fraternal identity and Lodges.
They also act as a Division of GBU Financial Life.
Why not act on it right now and apply for an additional
certificate?
#25: What happens to the Sokol USA “brand” after five years?
-The “brand” stays as is, as long as we continue to be successful.
-We are Sokol – we are not changing signs on buildings.
#26: Does GBU have any advertising or marketing initiatives that can help us with our
brand?
-We believe Sokol USA will receive some dedicated service by GBU.
#27: What programs does GBU already offer?
-GBU encourages their districts to be community and culturally minded.
-GBU supports our troops, programs for cancer research and Habitat for Humanity.
-Check their website at www.gbu.org for fraternal projects.
Why not take a little time and check your’s and your
children’s (if you have any) insurance coverage. Most likely,
you will discover that the amount is not sufficient and you
need greater coverage.
Please Send ______ New Member Applications to:
NAME: __________________________________________
ADDRESS: _______________________________________
CITY: ____________________ STATE: _____ ZIP: _______
JULY 11, 2013
SOKOL TIMES
XXXIV CONVENTION
OF THE
S.G.U. SOKOL USA
JULY 27 - 31, 2013
SANDS HOTEL
BETHLEHEM, PA
Lodges, Districts or individual members having motions
or suggestions for the good of the Sokol U.S.A., or petitions shall
forward same on the forms furnished by the Supreme Secretary,
not later than sixty (60) days prior to the Convention, who shall
deliver the same to the appropriate convention committee. All
correspondence shall be directed to the
Supreme Secretary,
SOKOL USA,
PO Box 189,
East Orange, NJ 07019-0189
Milan S. Kovac, Supreme Secretary
SILENT AUCTION AT CONVENTION
There will be a silent auction at the
Sokol USA convention in Bethlehem in
July. Lodges and members are
encouraged to bring prize baskets to the
opening of the convention. The baskets
will be available during the convention for
people to make bids. Bidding will close
prior to the end of the convention so that
the winning bidders will be able to pay
and take home their baskets.
The proceeds from the silent auction
will benefit the Milan Getting Scholarship
Fund. Please contribute prize baskets so
that the auction will be a success. For
information, please call Joe Bielecki at
412-390-0900 or Jennifer Moulton at
636-549-3332.
Page 7
MCT District Meeting 2013
The semi-annual MCT meeting was
held on April 28th in the Allegheny
Conference Room of the New
Kensington Clarion Hotel. The district
lodge delegates and members were all
interested to hear the prime discussion
before
the
XXXIV
USA
Sokol
Convention from July 27 to 31st.
Supreme President Joseph Bielecki
and Supreme Secretary Milan Kovac,
who has served in that capacity for 18
years, were in attendance. GBU
Financial Life favors our Sokol
organization as it is. Many questions
were answered regarding the future
service for the life with GBU, located at
Clairton Boulevard in Pittsburgh, Pa.
The growing gymnastics that Sokol
provides can be met. GBU believes in a
friendly and healthy program too.
The elected delegates at the coming
convention will be Patricia and Gerald
Blistan. Brother John West of Braddock,
Pa., was elected as the newest MCT
Committee Trustee.
The next MCT District Meeting will be
October 27th. President Bielecki won the
Good Luck raffle at the meeting and a
favorable lunch followed.
Nazdar!
Amelia Blistan
Reporter
Walking is a healthy habit
Walking is a low impact exercise that has many health benefits. Some of the
benefits are lowering blood pressure, managing type 2 diabetes and managing
cholesterol. Walking is not a very expensive activity. All you need is loose clothing,
sturdy shoes and a water bottle.
Before you start walking, you need to plan out your walking route, warm up and
stretch out for about five minutes. Don’t forget to grab you water bottle.
Make sure you start out slow. Go at your own pace and gradually increase the
amount you walk. Start to challenge yourself by making goals and keeping track of
your progress.
To stay motivated and make it fun not a chore. This is easily done by walking with
a friend. It could also be accomplished by changing your routine. For example: walk
at a different time, changing your path and your scenery.
Walking is one of the easiest ways to get into shape and improve your health.
The benefits will make a difference in your life. Plus you can join the Healthy Heart
nd
Walking Club by contacting Brandi Kovac at 280East 2 Street, Apt 9A, New York,
NY 10009 or e-mail [email protected].
SHARE YOUR FAMILY EVENTS WITH YOUR “SOKOL FAMILY”
The Sokol Times Social Page is a great way to keep up
with your old and new friends! Share your families’ events
with your Sokol family. We want to hear from you.
Only news regarding members of our lodges will be printed.
Complete one of the attached forms and mail the information
and a photograph of clear quality to Sokol USA, 276 Prospect
Street, P.O. Box 189, East Orange, NJ 07019-0189.
Information and photographs also may be e-mailed to:
[email protected]
ENGAGEMENTS,
WEDDINGS &
ANNIVERSARIES
BIRTHDAYS
PROMOTIONS,
HONOR ROLLS &
OTHER EVENTS
NAMES: _____________________
NAME: _____________________
NAME: _____________________
_____________________
BIRTH DATE: _________________
PHONE #: ___________________
PHONE #: ___________________
AGE: _______________________
HOMETOWN: _________________
HOMETOWN: _________________
PHONE #: ___________________
SOKOL LODGE: ________________
SOKOL LODGE: ________________
HOMETOWN: _________________
EVENT: _____________________
YEARS MARRIED (IF APPLICABLE): ___
SOKOL LODGE: ________________
_____________________
Photographs are not required, but they do add to the presentation.
Please include a self addressed, stamped envelope if you would like your photograph returned.
JULY 11, 2013
Page 8
SOKOL TIMES
AMERICAN
SOKOL
SPORTS FESTIVAL –
Sokol
USA
members
enjoying the banquet at
the American Sokol Sports
Festival in Milwaukee are
(in first row from left)
Sherry
Brant,
Sasha
Banjak, Debbie Golden,
Arlene VonSwedler and
Chris Yatchyshyn; and, in
second row, Steve Banjak,
Tim Brant, Joe Bielecki,
Milan
Kovac,
Gerald
VonSwedler and Rich
Yatchyshyn.
Do you know the average
person gains
1-2 pounds over the holidays?
Well… WALK IT OFF!!!
Sokol Healthy Heart
Walking Club
Benefits include:
Reducing your stress level
Lowering your risk of heart disease
Controlling your weight
Controlling your blood pressure
Sign up for Sokol’s Healthy Heart Walking Club
by sending your name, mailing address
and home lodge to:
Brandi Kovac
280 East 2nd St., Apt. 9A
NY, NY 10009
OR email: [email protected]
You will receive a free Sokol pedometer
and a Healthy Heart mileage chart.
You are responsible for recording your mileage.
Walk with fellow Sokol members, or on your own.
Contact Brandi when you reach a milestone
and get a reward!
IN MEMORY
Of our deceased Brother and Sister Sokols with a
sincere expression of sympathy to their families
from the Supreme Officers of Sokol U.S.A.
MARIE HIRAK – (1928-2013) A member of Lodge 30W
in Allentown, Pa. She is survived by her daughters.
CHARLES SCHIFFNER – (1930-2013) A member of
Lodge 77 in Allentown, Pa. He is survived by his wife.
HELEN LIWAK – (1922-2013) A member of Lodge 47 in
Monessen, Pa. She is survived by her daughters.
STEPHEN KAVULICH – (1918-2013) A member of
Lodge 268 in Throop, Pa. He is survived by his son.
JEANNE VALACHOVIC-CARPENTER – (1927-2013) A
member of Lodge 33W in Johnstown, N.Y. She is survived
by her children.
BEATRICE MIHALA – (1925-2013) A member of Lodge
66W in Bethlehem, Pa. She is survived by her children.
ROBERT PECK – (1922-1996) A member of Lodge 20
in Ford City, Pa. He is survived by his children.
IS YOUR
FAMILY COVERED?
Insurance coverage for all family
members is an essential part
of personal financial planning.
Don’t put off taking care
of this responsibility.
See your lodge Financial Secretary
or call Sokol Headquarters
toll free at 1-888-253-0362
for additional information
or membership applications.