OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE SLOVAK CATHOLIC SOKOL – MEMBERSHIP 28,000 – HOME OFFICE: 205 MADISON STREET, PASSAIC, N.J. 07055 – www.slovakcatholicsokol.org

Periodical Postage Paid at original entry of Passaic, N.J., 07055 and additional mailing offi ces

VOLUME C PASSAIC, N.J., MARCH 9, 2011 NUMBER 4933

Slovensk¥ Katolícky Sokol

Za Boha a Národ For God and Nation

(Continued on page 16)(Continued on page 17)

With spring in the air, it’s that time of year to begin preparations for teams to consider participating in this year’s 65th International Slo-

vak Catholic So-kol Bowling Tour-nament which will be staged in Read-ing, Pa. This year’s competition will be held at the Bowl-O-Rama Lanes in Read-

ing, Pa. in the heart of scenic Berks County. The tournament begins on Friday, May 20th and concludes on Sunday, May 22nd. The bowl-ing lanes are conveniently located near The Inn at Reading Hotel, which will be our main headquar-ters for the weekend competition. This year’s tournament looks to be a spectacular event that no one will want to miss. We hope the location will entice many “alumni” bowl-ers from years past to join us at this special fraternal event. In addition, we hope to welcome many new bowlers looking to combine a great

Group 12 to host our most popular Sokol sporting event

All is in readiness for our 65th International Bowling Tournament set for May 20-22 in Reading, Pa.

by Edward D. Moeller, Supreme Director of Sports & Athletics

family vacation as part of a special fraternal activity. All of the preparations are now complete and those planning to participate may now reserve their rooms at The Inn at Reading. With our large volume of bowlers and through some keen negotiations, we are able to enjoy a very reason-ably-priced rate of $89.00 per night, plus applicable taxes. A total of 80 newly remodeled rooms have been reserved for Friday and Saturday nights at this special rate for the Slovak Catholic Sokol. This special reduced rate also applies to those members who wish to arrive before the tournament or to say a few days following its conclusion. The hotel reservations number is tel. (610)372-7811. The fi nal dead-line to reserve and book rooms for the bowling tournament is Wednes-day, April 20th. After this date, we cannot guarantee that reservations will be honored at the hotel. Our or-ganization’s 80 rooms is registered under the Slovak Catholic Sokol name and when making room res-ervations this should be noted. The Inn at Reading is located at 1040 North Park Road, Reading, Pa. 19610-7811. The telephone at the hotel is (610)372-7811. The Bowl-O-Rama Lanes are located at 4100 Perkomen Avenue in Reading. The telephone number at the bowl-ing lanes is (610)779-3090. There are 40 newly renovated bowling lanes with automatic scoring which we hope will generate some high scores for our Sokol keglers. The bowling center is fully equipped with restaurants, a proshop as well as all the other facilities required to effectively support our tournament. Team entry forms, information packages and further details about the hotel have been sent out to our Groups and previous tournament participants. This year’s competi-tion looks to be a great fraternal event and now is the time to make your travel and hotel plans within the next few weeks, if possible. The deadline date for the submission of all team entry forms is Friday, April 8th(postmarked).

Team competition for both men and women will take place on Fri-day night, May 20th beginning at 5:30 p.m., with the second group scheduled for 8:15 p.m. We remind our bowlers that a change in the team format was put in place three years ago. This change in format, by having only four bowlers to a lane, allowed the team events to run more quickly, therefore allowing our bowlers the opportunity to partici-pate in more of the social gatherings that take place on Friday evening. The doubles and singles events will begin on Saturday morning, May 21st at 8:30 a.m., with the second group scheduled for 12:30 p.m. We will have a 9 a.m. squad on Sunday, May 22nd, only if required. We ask that all bowlers make every effort to arrive at the bowling lanes at least 30 minutes before their scheduled time. The cost of bowling per per-son will remain the same as last year. The rate is $15.00 for three(3) games or $45.00 for all nine(9) games.(team/doubles/singles). The All Events cost is an additional $3.00, therefore the total cost is $48.00 per bowler. Cost of the tra-ditional Saturday evening victory

Our walkers trekked 89,815.81 miles in 2010

Our Sokol Walking Program continues to promote physical fi tness among our members of every age

by Katie J. SwiftMember of the Supreme Physical Fitness Board

Well, the fi nal fi gures for 2010 are in and our Sokol Walking Program again proved its popularity and success among our members of every age in various parts of the country. As coordinator of this popular pro-gram, I can say once again that 2010 was a great year. As another year passes, I am so proud of each and every one of our Sokol walkers. Our Slovak Catholic Sokol walkers are such a large and di-verse group of people residing in all part of the country. They live in a variety of weather condi-tions, yet they all do their best to fi nd the time and enthusiastically get out and walk to good health. I again salute all our walkers on a job well done in 2010. Your efforts are amazing! In 2010, our walkers trekked a total of 89,815.81 miles - cer-tainly an enviable record.

Changes and mini-changes All of our walkers know how much I enjoy receiving their letters, notes and words of wisdom. You have always been such a wonderful support and great Sokol family, since for me the year 2010 was quite a challenge. From adjusting to life with a new baby, moving from Cali-fornia to Lima, Peru and through our travels, I was so happy to get let-ters and cards from everyone. Our duty station in Lima Peru has been a true blessing. We have been able to travel and see so many scenic places here in Peru and South America. This experience has been an opportu-nity of a lifetime for me. However, as all good things come to an end, my husband Nate and I will be leaving Peru in April and will be heading to our new home. As of this writing, the United States Marine Corps has not given us offi cial orders, but we have said that we would like to go anywhere on the East Coast of the United States. This will enable us to be closer to our family which means a great deal to us. As soon as I know of our new location, I will be sending out cards to all our walkers.

Well-known Slovak cultural and fraternal activist, Nina Holy of West Orange, N.J., center, was honored at this year’s gala 19th Slovak Ball hosted by the Slovak American Cultural Center on Saturday evening, Feb-ruary 26 at the New York Athletic Club in New York City. Shown with her on the photo are, l-r, Dr. Mary Z. Gasparik, former Slovak Foreign Minister Eduard Kukan, Attorney John G. Duch, who with Nina serve as co-chairperson of the annual New Jersey Slovak Heritage Festival and the Rev. Richard D. Baker, pastor of New York’s historic Actors’ Chapel in the city’s theatre district and chaplain of Group 1.

PAGE 2 SLOVAK CATHOLIC FALCON, MARCH 9, 2011

SUN.MARCH 13 Traditional Slovak Stations

of the Cross at St. Mary’s of the Immaculate Conception Church, 124 South Washington St., Wil-kes-Barre, Pa. beginning at 2 p.m.

Assembly 188 meeting in the social hall of St. Katherine Drex-el Parish, 120 East Abbott St., Lansford, Pa. beginning at 11:30 a.m.

SAT.MARCH 19 19th annual bowling tourna-

ment hosted by Group 9 at the Lakeview Bowling Lanes, Eb-ensburg, Pa. beginning at 10 a.m., dinner to follow at the Slo-vak Catholic Sokol Club, Rail-road St., Lilly, Pa. beginning at 6 p.m.

Sokol Calendar

Group 14 Bowling Tournament at Playmor Bowling Lanes, But-termilk Hollow Rd., West Miffl in, Pa. beginning at 1 p.m.

SUN.MARCH 20 Assembly 182 St. Joseph pa-

tronal feast day observance be-ginning with Mass in Slovak at 11 a.m. at the Church of St. John Nepomucene, 66th St. and First Ave., New York City followed by luncheon and fraternal program in the parish social hall, 406 East 67th St.

Group 2 Centennial Duckpin Bowling Tournament at Bar-num Duckpin Lanes, Barnum Ave.,Stratford, Conn. beginning at 11 a.m., call Eileen S. Wilson (203)378-8837.

Assembly 162 meeting in SS. Cyril and Methodius Church Hall, 218 Ackerman Ave., Clifton, N.J. beginning at 12:30 p.m.

MARCH 22-24 Annual audit of the Supreme

Auditors at the home offi ce in

OUR NEXT ISSUE IS MARCH 23

In keeping with our bi- week ly publishing sched ule, the next is sue of the Slovak Cath o lic Fal con will be that of Wednes day, March 23rd. Dead line for all pho tos and in for ma tion for this is sue will be Thurs day, March 17th. View e-Falcon on our website: www.slovakcatho-licsokol.org. Thank ing you for your con tin ued co op er a tion in this mat ter, I re main Zdar Boh! Daniel F. Tanzone Editor

From the Desk of the Supreme Secretary

My Fraternal Viewby Steven M. Pogorelec, F.I.C.

Passaic, N.J.WED.MARCH 23

Lenten Fish & Chips dinner hosted by the Marian Rosary So-ciety of SS. Cyril and Methodius in the church hall, 218 Ackerman Ave., Clifton, N.J. beginning at 5:30 p.m.; $15.00, takeout or-

ders available; call Dot (973)772-3448.

MARCH 25-26 Annual meeting of the Su-

preme Board of Directors at the home offi ce in Passaic, N.J.

SAT.MARCH 26 Eastern District Basketball &

Volleyball Tournament at Read-ing High School, Reading, Pa. hosted by Group 12.

SUN.MARCH 27 Group 1 Bowling Tournament

at Paul’s Bowling Academy, 377 Crooks Ave., Paterson, N.J. be-ginning at 12 noon. Call Eric Topczij (973)985-0134.

SUN.APRIL 3 Group 5 semi annual meeting

& bowling tournament at Yor-ktown Bowling Lanes, Parma Heights, Oh., meeting begins at 10:30 am., tourney begins at 12:30 p.m., call Marty Zemanek (440)233-6021.

Lenten Mass & Breakfast host-ed by Assembly 25 and Wreath 15, Mass at 10 a.m. at St. John the Baptist Church, breakfast to follow at the Sokol Club, Per-ryopolis, Pa.

SAT.APRIL 9 Annual Group 14 Easter Bun-

ny Breakfast at the Slovak Cath-olic Sokol Club, 2912 East Car-son St., South Side, Pittsburgh, Pa. beginning at 9 a.m.

Group 14 semi-annual meet-ing at the Sokol Club, South Side, Pittsburgh, Pa. beginning at 11:30 a.m.

MON.APRIL 11 Wreath 93 meeting at the May-

fair North Tower meeting room in Wauwatosa, Wis. from 6-8 p.m.

BEGINNING A NEW FRATERNAL SEASON For most of our members, this past winter season has been one of the worst in recent years. Most of the Midwest and Northeast has endured endless bouts of snow, ice and frigid temperatures. The use of the term “tunnel months” for the fi rst three months of the year certainly seems appropriate. However, let us remember that there is always light at the end of a tunnel. And so, the new month of March, the last month of winter, is upon us. Of course, we recall the old saying “If March comes in like a lion, it will go out like a lamb,” so it can be a contradictory month, both cold and warm. But with March 20, being the beginning of spring just a whisper away, we live in hope and anticipation of a bright new season, one perfectly geared to fraternal activity. The thought of the new spring season brings several opportunities for us. In an organization like ours, spring offers plenty wonderful opportunities to enjoy our various planned activities and leave the thoughts of winter behind us. I am pleased to see that several of our Groups, Assemblies and Wreaths have announced upcoming activities, whether they be in the form of bowling tournaments, socials, patronal feast day observances, dinner-dances or other activities. In addi-tion, we also have our various district sporting events coming up. Belonging to a fraternal organization affords its members so many opportunities to socialize and enjoy one another’s company. I again remind you that the Home Offi ce encourages such local lodge or Group activities. A lodge or Group can receive $100 to support such activities twice a year. I again encourage that our local elected offi cials be invited to these activities. We need to let them know about all the wonderful activities that we are involved in. Too often they are unaware of all the volunteer and outreach projects in which our mem-bers are involved. Let’s remember that members of congress and those in state legislatures are the ones who decide the fate of fraternals regarding our very important tax exempt sta-tus. I do hope that many more of our members and lodges will try to get involved in outreach projects such as this year’s “Join Hands Day” which will be observed on Saturday, May 7. More details continue to be shared regarding this year’s important 31st National Convention which is scheduled for July 30th to August 3rd in Pittsburgh. Our local Group 14 Sokol enthusiasts are working hard to make the convention

enjoyable and memorable. Remember that March 31st is the deadline for receipt at the Home Offi ce of all delegate cre-dentials. Make sure that you have an alternate or alternates elected as well, in the event that an elected delegate at the last minute can not attend the convention. This spring will also mark an important milestone in the life of our organization. April 15, 2011 will mark the 100th anniversary of our offi cial publication the Slovak Catholic Fal-con. It was on April 15, 1911 that the fi rst issue of Katolicky Sokol, (our publication’s original Slovak title) was fi rst print-ed. Over the course of this past century, our publication has beautifully mirrored the many and varied activities in which our organization and its members have been engaged in. In our Home Offi ce archives, we have all 100 bound annual vol-umes of our publication for all to see. It’s a rich history and legacy, one which we are very proud of. Today, our publication remains our principal means of communications among our members. We salute all those who have had a hand in the production of our offi cial publication during the past century, especially our current Editor, Brother Daniel F. Tanzone and the editorial staff. Spring is also a wonderful opportunity to get out and talk about enrolling new members in our organization. Pur-chasing life insurance is an important decision. Since none of us knows what tomorrow may bring or what would hap-pen if tragedy was to suddenly strike, it is important that all of us have adequate life insurance coverage. Whether you are single, married, are in your 20s, 30s, 40s, 50s, 60s or 70s..everyone should have life insurance. Take a moment to look at your life and ask yourself, “What would happen if I was not here tomorrow?” Each of us should ask ourselves two ques-tions: How much money will my family need after my death to meet immediate expenses, funeral expenses, and debts and how much money will my family need to maintain their standard of living throughout their lifetime? Our organization can help you answer these questions. We have a number of attractive plans offered at competitive rates to solve all your life insurance needs. Think about it and leap into action. Give us a call at the Home Offi ce 800-886-7656 or call our Sales Offi ce at 888-431-5431 and we will be glad to assist you. Until next time, have a great week and may God bless you and yours with good health and happiness. Peace be with you and Zdar Boh!

Any member interested in subscribing to E-paper, kindly forward your e-mail address to: Louie@slovakcatholicsokol.org. Instead of mailing our of-fi cial publication, the Slovak Catholic Falcon, members will be able to view it online. Editor

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SLOVAK CATHOLIC FALCON, MARCH 9, 2011 PAGE 3

ISSN: 0897-8107

Established April 15, 1911Official Publication of the Slovak Catholic Sokol

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SLOVAK CATHOLIC SOKOLP.O. Box 899

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Introducing ournewest members

Taylor Anne Gigliotti, born May 28, 2008, is the daughter of Bryan and Lisa Krumenaker Gigliotti of Castle Shannon, Pa. She was enrolled as a member of Assembly 79 in Lilly, Pa.

Ella Bree Gigliotti, born July 30, 2010, is the daughter of Bryan and Lisa Krumenaker Gigliotti of Castle Shannon, Pa. She was enrolled as a member of Assembly 79 in Lilly, Pa.

Luke Francis Ferris, born July 17, 2010, is the son of Ryan and Sandra Ferris of Commerce Turnpike, Mich. He was en-rolled as a member of Assembly 16 in Pittsburgh, Pa.

Dylan Edward Wyland, born May 18, 2010, is the son of Gregg and Shirley Doyle Wyland of Pittsburgh, Pa. He was enrolled as a member of Assembly 16 in Pittsburgh, Pa.

Alexa Jade Devitt, born June 25, 2010, is the daughter of Sean and Nancy Osika Devitt of Yonkers, New York. She was enrolled as a member of As-sembly 219 in Yonkers, New York.

Dylan Hope Brock, born Sep-tember 30, 2010, is the daugh-ter of Jeffrey and Jamie Curtis Brock of Johnstown, Pa. He was enrolled as a member of Wreath 22 in Pittsburgh, Pa.

Anthony Campbell Narcisi, born August 31, 2010, is the son of Tony and Megan Mihal-cin Narcisi of Pittsburgh, Pa. He was enrolled as a member of Assembly 16 in Pittsburgh, Pa.

Levi James Blaze, born March 22, 2010, is the son of Thomas J. and Kelly M. Mikula Blaze of ´Elizabeth, Pa. He was enrolled as a member of Assembly 25 in Perryopolis, Pa.

Lenten thoughts from our Supreme Chaplainby Rev. Andrew S. Hvozdovic

This year I wish to share with all Pope Benedict XVI’s 2011 Lenten Message.

BENEDICT XVI’S 2011 LENTEN MESSAGE “You were buried with him in baptism, in which you were also raised with him.” (cf. Col 2: 12)

Dear Brothers and Sisters, The Lenten period, which leads us to the celebration of Holy Easter, is for the Church a most valuable and important liturgical time, in view of which I am pleased to offer a specifi c word in or-der that it may be lived with due diligence. As she awaits the defi nitive encounter with her Spouse in the eternal Easter, the Church community, assidu-ous in prayer and charitable works, intensifi es her journey in purifying the spirit, so as to draw more abundantly from the Mystery of Redemption the new life in Christ the Lord (cf. Preface I of Lent). This very life was already bestowed upon us on the day of our Baptism, when we “become shar-ers in Christ’s death and Resurrection”, and there began for us “the joyful and exulting adventure of his disciples” (Homily on the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord, 10 January, 2010). In his Letters, St. Paul repeatedly insists on the singular communion with the Son of God that this washing brings about. The fact that, in most cases, Baptism is received in infancy highlights how it is a gift of God: no one earns eternal life through their own efforts. The mercy of God, which cancels sin and, at the same time, allows us to experience in our lives “the mind of Christ Jesus” (Phil 2: 5), is given to men and women freely. The Apostle to the Gentiles, in the Letter to the Philippians, expresses the meaning of the transformation that takes place through participation in the death and resurrection of Christ, pointing to its goal: that “I may come to know him and the power of his resurrection, and partake of his sufferings by being molded to the pattern of his death, striving towards the goal of resurrec-tion from the dead” (Phil 3: 10-11). Hence, Baptism is not a rite from the past, but the encounter with Christ, which informs the entire existence of the baptized, imparting divine life and calling for sincere conversion; initiated and supported by Grace, it permits the baptized to reach the adult stature of Christ. A particular connection binds Baptism to Lent as the favorable time to experience this saving Grace. The Fathers of the Second Vatican Coun-cil exhorted all of the Church’s Pastors to make greater use “of the bap-tismal features proper to the Lenten liturgy” (Constitution on the Sacred Liturgy Sacrosanctum concilium, n. 109). In fact, the Church has always associated the Easter Vigil with the celebration of Baptism: this Sacra-ment realizes the great mystery in which man dies to sin, is made a sharer in the new life of the Risen Christ and receives the same Spirit of God who raised Jesus from the dead (cf. Rm 8: 11). This free gift must always be rekindled in each one of us, and Lent offers us a path like that of the catechumenate, which, for the Christians of the early Church, just as for catechumens today, is an irreplaceable school of faith and Christian life. Truly, they live their Baptism as an act that shapes their entire existence. In order to undertake more seriously our journey towards Easter and prepare ourselves to celebrate the Resurrection of the Lord – the most joyous and solemn feast of the entire liturgical year – what could be more appropriate than allowing ourselves to be guided by the Word of God? For this reason, the Church, in the Gospel texts of the Sundays of Lent, leads us to a particularly intense encounter with the Lord, calling us to retrace the steps of Christian initiation: for catechumens, in preparation for receiving the Sacrament of rebirth; for the baptized, in light of the new and decisive steps to be taken in the sequela Christi and a fuller giving of oneself to him. In synthesis, the Lenten journey, in which we are invited to contem-plate the Mystery of the Cross, is meant to reproduce within us “the pat-tern of his death” (Ph 3: 10), so as to effect a deep conversion in our lives; that we may be transformed by the action of the Holy Spirit, like St. Paul on the road to Damascus; that we may fi rmly orient our existence accord-ing to the will of God; that we may be freed of our egoism, overcoming the instinct to dominate others and opening us to the love of Christ. The Lenten period is a favorable time to recognize our weakness and to ac-cept, through a sincere inventory of our life, the renewing Grace of the Sacrament of Penance, and walk resolutely towards Christ. Dear Brothers and Sisters, through the personal encounter with our Redeemer and through fasting, almsgiving and prayer, the journey of conversion towards Easter leads us to rediscover our Baptism. This Lent, let us renew our acceptance of the Grace that God bestowed upon us at that moment, so that it may illuminate and guide all of our actions. What the Sacrament signifi es and realizes, we are called to experience every day by following Christ in an ever more generous and authentic manner. In this our itinerary, let us entrust ourselves to the Virgin Mary, who gen-erated the Word of God in faith and in the fl esh, so that we may immerse ourselves – just as she did – in the death and resurrection of her Son Jesus, and possess eternal life.

PAGE 4 SLOVAK CATHOLIC FALCON, MARCH 9, 2011

The Wordof God ...

Gospel for the First Sunday of Lent - March 13th

Matthew 4: 1- 1 1A reading from the holy Gospelaccording to MatthewAt that time Jesus was led by the Spiritinto the desertto be tempted by the devil.He fasted for forty days and forty nights,and afterwards he was hungry.The tempter approached and said to him,“If you are the Son of God,command that these stonesbecome loaves of bread. ”He said in reply,“It is written:‘One does not live on bread alone,but on every word that comes forthfrom the mouth of God. ”’Then the devil took him to the holy city,and made him stand on the parapet of the temple,and said to him,“If you are the Son of God,throw yourself down.For it is written:‘He will command his angels concerning youand with their hands they will support you,lest you dash your foot against a stone. ”’Jesus answered him,‘Again it is written,‘You shall not put the Lord, your God,to the test. ”’Then the devil took him upto a very high mountain,and showed himall the kingdoms of the worldin their magnifi cence,and he said to him,“All these I shall give to you,if you will prostrate yourselfand worship me.”At this, Jesus said to him,“Get away, Satan!It is written:‘The Lord, your God,shall you worshipand him alone shall you serve. ”’Then the devil left him and, behold,angels came and ministered to him

The Gospel of the Lord.

Gospel for the Second Sunday of Lent - March 20th

Matthew 1 7: 1 -9A reading from the holy Gospelaccording to MatthewJesus took Peter,James, and John his brother,and led them upa high mountain by themselves.And he was transfi gured before them;his face shone like the sunand his clothes became white as light.And behold,Moses and Elijah appeared to them,conversing with him.Then Peter said to Jesus in reply,“Lord, it is good that we are here.If you wish,I will make three tents here,one for you,one for Moses,and one for Elijah.”While he was still speaking,behold,a bright cloud cast a shadow over them,then from the cloud

REFLECTOR ... Jotings fr om Sokol and Slovak life

(Continued on page 9)

Slovak Heritage Society announcesactivities in Wilkes-Barre, Pa. The Slovak Heritage Society of Northeastern Pennsylvania will host a number of activities of inter-est to those of Slovak ancestry. Slovak language classes will resume for the spring semester, as well as Slovak Stations of the Cross and Hymn-Sing are some of the upcoming events sponsored by this well-known Slovak cultural group, according to its president, Professor Phil-ip R. Tuhy of Wilkes-Barre, Pa. Slovak language classes will resume for the spring semester which begins on Thursday, March 10 and will continue on subsequent Thursdays through May 5. These weekly classes meet from 6- to 8 p.m. at St. Matthew Slo-vak Lutheran Church social hall located at 663 North Main Street in Wilkes-Barre, Pa. Registration will take place the fi rst night of the class on March 10. Tuition is $30.00 and textbooks are available at a nominal cost. Chairper-son of the Slovak classes is Andrew Sofranko of Wilkes-Barre. For additional information on these classes call him at tel (570)823-2568. The traditional Lenten Stations of the Cross will be celebrated in Slovak on Sunday, March 13 at 2 p.m. in St. Mary’s Church of the Immaculate Conception, located at 124 South Washington Street in downtown Wilkes-Barre. Msgr. Thomas V. Banick is pastor of the parish. Celebrant of the Slovak Stations will be the Rev. John Albosta of SS. Peter and Paul Church in Plains, Pa. Organist at the stations will be Carl Yanowski. Many the beloved Slovak Lenten hymns will be sung during the service. Station books and music will be provided. For additional information on the Slovak Stations, call Mag-dalen Benish at tel. (570)823-1222. Previous Lenten Slovak Hymn-Sings and Passion Resurrection cassettes and CDs featuring seasonal Slovak hymns and music will be available. For additional information on the vari-ous cultural and religious activities hosted by the Slovak Heritage Society of Northeastern Pennsylvania, check out the group’s website: shsnepa.org.

Slovak Catholic Federation announcesthe 100th anniversary of its founding The Slovak Catholic Federation, the representa-tive body of American Catholics of Slovak ancestry, is pleased to announce the 100th anniversary of its found-ing which will be celebrated on Sunday, May 15, 2011 in Scranton, Pa. The festivity begins with a Pontifi cal concelebrated Liturgy of Thanksgiving at 2:30 p.m. in the Cathedral Church of Saint Peter, the Mother Church of the Diocese in which the Slovak Catholic Federation was founded in 1911. The Most Reverend Joseph C. Bambera, D.D., J.C.L., Bishop of Scranton, will be the main celebrant, along with the Most Reverend Joseph V. Adamec, Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown and Episcopal Moderator of the Slovak Catholic Federation. The Reverend Philip A. Al-tavilla, V.E., National President of the Slovak Catholic Federation will serve as homilist. Priests of Slovak an-cestry from across the country will concelebrate. Following the liturgy, a Centennial Banquet will be held at the Clarion Hotel, located at 300 Meadow Avenue in Scranton, Pennsylvania. There will be a cash bar beginning at 4:30 p.m. with dinner to follow at 5:30 p.m. The cost of the banquet ticket is $35.00 per person. Entertainment will be provided by Pajtasi, a Slovak folk ensemble from New York City. The deadline for ban-quet reservations is April 15, 2011. To commemorate this historic event in the life of the American Slovak Catholic community, a special commemorative book pamatnica will also be published. Patrons for the commemorative book will be appreci-ated. The deadline for patrons is April 1, 2011. Fore more information on the centennial event or to receive a Patron form and/or a banquet reservations form, please call Dolores M. Evanko, National Sec-retary-Treasurer of the Slovak Catholic Federation at (570) 454-547 or visit www.slovakcatholicfederation.org.

Easter cards available from Slovak Institute The Slovak Institute, a Reference Library located at St. Andrew Svorad Benedictine Abbey in Cleveland, offers an array of items of interest to Americans of Slovak ances-try. The Institute offers a number of seasonal items, includ-ing Easter cards in Slovak. They are 10 cards to a pack and are available for $10.00 plus $4.00 for shipping and han-dling. Other items available include small fl ags of Slovakia at $4.00 each or large Slovak fl ags, three feet by fi ve feet, at $20.00. Again add, $4.00 for shipping and handling. A large map of Slovakia is also available at $10.00 plus shipping and handling. Make checks payable to: Slovak Institute and mail same to 10510 Buckeye Road, Cleveland, OH. 44104. The Slovak Institute offers a book list offering its large supply of books in both Slovak and English. For a book list or other items of interest, call the Slovak Insti-tute at tel. (216)721-5033, ext. 294. Andrew F. Hudak, serves as the director and Joseph J. Hornack is the assis-tant director of the Slovak Institute. Tours of the Slovak Institute are available by appointment.

WPSCA to host interestingSpring cultural projects Continuing in its cultural and social pro-gram, the Western Pennsylvania Slovak Cultural Association(WPSCA) will host unique activities open to the general public in the Pittsburgh area. On Satur-day, April 16 a special Slovak cooking class will be held at St. Gregory Byzantine Catholic Church hall located at 2005 Mohawk Drive in Upper St. Clair beginning at 1 p.m. Magda Lukac, a popular cook from Slovakia, will present a demonstration of various pre-Easter Slo-vak culinary favorites. On Sunday, May 1, the WPSCA will host its Spring Meeting at the Czechoslovak Nationality Room in the University of Pittsburgh Cathedral of Learning beginning at 2 p.m. A special highlight of this meeting will be a lecture by Richard Kocur titled “The History of Slovak Hockey.” This is a timely topic since the NHL playoffs will be taking place at this time and Pittsburgh anticipates its Penguins will be participating. Also, the World Cup will be beginning in Kosice, Slovakia. The Slovak Heritage Conversation Group meets at the Mt. Lebanon Library on the fi rst Monday of each month beginning at 7 p.m. Interesting topics will include a fi lm on the Czechoslovak Legionnaires who fought on the Allied side in World War I at the March 7th session and a Show-N-Tell featuring members col-lection of Slovak memorabilia at its April 4th session. Slovak language classes meet every Tuesday, March 1 to April 26 from 7 - 8:45 p.m. also at the Mt. Lebanon Public Library which is located at 16 Castle Shannon Boulevard. Bozena Hilko is the instructor. Looking ahead, the WPSCA will host a Central European Beer Tasking event on Saturday, June 25 be-ginning at 1 p.m at the Gypsy Cafe located on Pitts-burgh’s South Side. For information on any of these ac-tivities, call Pam at (412)531-2990 during offi ce hours.

Sokolfest XXVI set for Cleveland, Ohio This year’s Sokolfest XXVI, hosted by our brother Sokol organization, the Slovak Gymnastic Union So-kol or Sokol USA as it is commonly known, is set for June 29 to July 2 in Cleveland, Oh. Representatives from many Sokol organizations, including those from the Czech Republic and Slovakia are expected to par-ticipate. The competition will be staged at the Indepen-dence High School gymnasium in Independence, Oh. The closing Slet exhibition is set for Saturday, July 2 at the Independence High School Field. The Slet partici-pants will be housed at the Hoilday Inn. Independence is a south suburb of Cleveland. Members of the Slovak Catholic Sokol along with the Polish Falcons of America have been invited to participate. For details of this Sokolfest, contact the home offi ce of Sokol USA at tel. 888-253-0362 or SO-KOLUSAHGS@aol.com.

SLOVAK CATHOLIC FALCON, MARCH 9, 2011 PAGE 5

Lodge Jottings

CLIFTON, NJAssembly 162

Our regular monthly meeting is scheduled for Sunday, March 20 in SS. Cyril and Methodius Church Hall, located on Acker-man Avenue beginning at 12:30 p.m. All members are invited to attend. On our meeting agenda will be a report and recap of our recent patronal feast day observance which was held on February 13 as well as any other lodge busi-ness that needs to be discussed at that time. Input from our mem-bers will insure the success of our projects. Zdar Boh! John D. Pogorelec, Jr. President David Bulwin Recording Secretary

LANSFORD, PAAssembly 188

Our lodge under the patronage of St. Martin, will host a special meeting on Sunday, March 13 to elect delegates who will repre-sent us at the upcoming 31st qua-drennial convention to be held in Pittsburgh, Pa., July 30-August 3. The gathering will take place following the 10:30 a.m. Mass at St. Katherine Drexel parish hall(formerly St. Michael the Archangel Slovak Church), 120 East Abbott Street. Members of the former Assembly 189 of Tresckow and Assembly 110 of St. Clair are also invited to attend. Following the election, we will review our organization’s bylaws to address these and any other items which should be brought before the pre-convention com-mittees. All members are urged to attend the meeting to cast their votes even if they are not can-didates for the delegate slots. In order to make their intentions known, they are asked to phone the new president, Michael Lukas at (570)645-7458. Zdar Boh! Paul J. Hackash Financial Secretary

LORAIN, OH.Wreath 111

We are pleased that many of our members turned out for our various fraternal activities held during our monthly meetings in 2010. Each activity was unique and enjoyed by all. Following our winter hiatus, we are pleased to announce our sched-ule for 2011. Each of our meetings are held every second Monday of the month at the American Slovak Club located at 2915 Broadway beginning at 6:30 p.m. unless oth-erwise noted. Our fi rst meeting of the new year is scheduled for Monday, March 14th. This meeting will be a cel-ebration of St. Patrick since every-one is Irish on at least one day of the year. We will be wearing our green and shamrocks for sure. Re-freshments will be enjoyed and an

enjoyable evening is assured. Our April 11th meeting is titled “An Easter Parade.” Easter bonnets are optional. Since the month of May is dedi-cated to all mothers, our May 9th meeting is titled “Mothers’ Tea Party.” We will enjoy little cookies and tea served in their favorite cups. On June 13th, our meeting will be titled “Red-White & Blue.” This indoor-style picnic will be dedicat-ed to American independence. The picnic will bring plenty of color and covered dishes. During the months of July and August, we will be on summer va-cation and no meetings are held. Our Wreath, however will be repre-sented at the 31st national conven-tion scheduled for July 30 to August 3 in Pittsburgh, Pa. Our September 12th meeting will be dedicated to our Wreath’s heav-enly patroness. We will observe the feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary with appropriate fes-tivity. This will be a good time for prayers, pizza and cake. Since October brings Halloween to mind, our October 10th meeting is titled “Trick or Treat.” What bet-ter time to have donuts and cider? Our November 14th meeting is titled “Let’s Give Thanks.” And of course, there will be plenty of deli-cious pumpkin pie on the table. Our fi nal meeting of the year is scheduled for Monday, December 12 and is titled “Under the Mistle-tow.” The evening will include our traditional Christmas dinner where we will enjoy many of our beloved Slovak customs. New members are always wel-come. For additional information on any of our activities, feel free to call our president, Glenice Zelina at tel. (440)988-2339. Have a wonder-ful and fruitful year and I look for-ward to seeing many of our mem-bers at our meetings. Zdar Boh! Anna Gaydosh Treasurer

MINNEAPOLIS, MINN.Assembly 34

The annual patronal feast day of our lodge honoring St. George will be observed on Sunday, April 17. Mass will be celebrated for the liv-ing and deceased members of As-sembly 34 at 9 a.m. at the Church of SS. Cyril and Methodius where our lodge has been active for more than a century. Following the liturgy, we will as-semble in the Father George Dargay Memorial Hall of the parish where we will enjoy a full breakfast served by the members of the St. Cyril Slo-vak Men’s Club. The breakfast is free of charge for all members of Assembly 34 and Wreath 47. Come join us for an enjoyable celebra-tion of Sokol fellowship and fra-ternalism. However, we remind our members that there is no parking in the school lot. This year’s observance marks the 102nd anniversary of the founding of Assembly 34. It was on April 4, 1909 that a group of young Slovak

immigrant men met at SS. Cyril and Methodius Church Hall with the in-tention of establishing a local lodge of the recently established Slovak Catholic Sokol organization. Our founders choose St. George, who was a popular saint among gymnas-tic and youth groups in their native homeland, as patron of the new As-sembly. And the rest is history. For all these years, our Assembly has remained faithful to the high ideals of the fraternal benefi t system and has participated in many sporting and fraternal activities, on the lo-cal, Group and national levels. Over these many years, we have always promoted our faith and heritage traditions and have faithfully sup-ported SS. Cyril and Methodius Parish. This year, our lodge will be represented at the upcoming 31st quadrennial national convention in Pittsburgh and our youth will com-pete at this summer’s 45th Interna-tional Slet at Kutztown University in Kutztown, Pa. Looking forward to seeing a good turnout of our members at this year’s patronal feast day obser-vance, may I remain Zdar Boh! James T. Genosky Financial Secretary

NEW YORK, NYAssembly 182

Our Assembly will host its tradi-tional St. Joseph’s Day celebration in honor of our patron on Sunday, March 20. We will attend the 11 a.m. Slovak Mass in a body at St. John Nepomucene Church which will be celebrated for the living and deceased members of Assembly 182. Following the liturgy, we will enjoy a traditional luncheon and fraternal program in the social hall of the parish located at 406 East 67th Street. All members, as well as our Brother Sokols and Sister So-kolky from our neighboring lodges, are welcome to join us. Editor Dan-iel F. Tanzone will be the principal speaker at the luncheon. Following the luncheon, we will conduct our lodge’s annual meeting. At this year’s celebration, we will celebrate the 88th anniversary of the founding of our Assembly. It was in April of 1923, that a group of young Slovaks met at St. John Nepomucene parish and organized a new lodge of the Slovak Catho-lic Sokol. Over these many years, we have enjoyed active participa-tion in the various fraternal, cul-tural and sporting events of our organization. In addition, we have supported many Slovak activities associated with our parish. Our St. Joseph’s Day observance continues a wonderful fraternal tradition of honoring the patron of our lodge as well as all of our “Josephs” and “Josephines” among us. This year’s patronal feast day observance will observe its 65th anniversary. It was in 1946 that we fi rst hosted such a celebration. We look forward to seeing a good turnout at this year’s observance as we celebrate Sokol fellowship and fraternalism in the Big Apple. Zdar Boh! Dr. Ladislav Korcek President

Group 3 prepares for competition

In anticipation of this year’s 44th Eastern District Basketball and Vol-leyball Tournament, scheduled for Saturday, March 26 in Reading, Pa., we in Group 3 have begun practice sessions at the Municipal Center Gy-nasium located on Depot Street in East Douglas, Mass. Boys and girls, ages 12-15 meet from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. while boys and girls, ages 8-11 meet from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Wom-en’s volleyball practice is held Sun-days at 1:30 p.m. at the same facility.

First Midwest Group to note centennial

Group 4 to celebrate 100th AnniversaryWith fraternal program in Palos Hill, Ill. Group 4 “Bishop Stefan Moyzes” will observe its centennial with a gala celebration on Saturday, September 17, 2011 at the beauti-ful Camelot Banquet Hall in Palos Hills, Illinois. I take this opportu-nity to extend a cordial invitation to Sokols and Sokolky belonging to our Group 4 lodges in Illinois, Indiana and Wisconsin and ask them to mark their calendars and plan to join us for this grand celebration. The celebration will take place immediately following the Group 4 annual meeting which will be held that morning. Complete details of our celebration, only the second Group in our organization to note this historic milestone, will be available in the coming months, however I would like every Assembly and Wreath in Group 4 to be aware of this date and not make other confl icting plans. All of the offi cers of Group 4 will serve as members of our 100th Anniversary Committee. I am also asking that all the presidents and offi cers of each of our lodges assist in publicizing this historic event among their members. Although Chicago, Illinois is the headquarters of Group 4, every Assembly and Wreath in Indiana, Illinois and Wis-consin has enjoyed an active past and has contributed to the success of the Slovak Catholic Sokol in the Midwest. Every lodge has participat-ed in SCS conventions, Slets and other sporting activities sponsored by our organization. Over the past century, Sokols and Sokolky from Group 4 have held every position within the Supreme Assembly of our organization at one time or another. Truly, we have much to celebrate and be proud of. In the coming months, we will send additional information to our lodges on the program of the centennial as we anticipate a memorable and enjoyable100th anniversary celebration in the best traditions of Midwest Sokol fellowship and fraternalism. Zdar Boh! Fraternally yours, Tony L. Scuglik President of Group 4

Supreme Physical Fitness Board tohost Conference Call on March 20 The members of the Supreme Physical Fitness Board will be holding a Conference Call on Sunday, March 20, 2011 to discuss de-tails of the upcoming 45th International Slet in Kutztown, Pa. as well as other Sokol sporting events scheduled for 2011. Anyone interested in submitting topics to be discussed or other suggestions related to these upcoming sporting events may do so by emailing them to me at moellerref@aol.com or they may write me at my home address: Edward D. Moeller, Supreme Director of Sports and Athletics, 2821 Waterman Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15227. All such input and recom-mendations should be forwarded to me by Wednesday, March 16, 2011 so that same may be added to the meeting agenda. Thank you for your cooperation in this matter and I look forward to seeing many of you at our upcoming events in 2011. Zdar Boh! Fraternally yours, Edward D. Moeller Supreme Director of Sports & Athletics

Anna Korcak Financial Secretary

PERRYOPOLIS, PAAssembly 25Wreath 15

The annual Lenten Mass and breakfast hosted by Assembly 25 and Wreath 15 is scheduled for Sunday, April 3. We will at-tend the 10 a.m. Mass at St. John the Baptist Church which will be celebrated for the living and deceased members of our both lodges. Following the liturgy, we will gather at the Slovak Catholic Sokol Club where we will enjoy a full breakfast. All members are invited to join us in this annual fraternal event. This year marks the 104th an-niversary of the founding of As-sembly 25. It was on July 4, 1908 that a group of young Slovak immigrants gathered to establish our lodge. They choose SS. Cyril and Methodius as patrons of the Assembly. Two years later, on

February 10, 1910, a group of young Slovak women gathered and founded Wreath 15. For more than a century our both Sokol lodges have been active in every aspect of fraternal life. We look forward to seeing a good turnout at this year’s com-munion breakfast. Zdar Boh! Michael T. Matras President

PAGE 6 SLOVAK CATHOLIC FALCON, MARCH 9, 2011

The purpose and aim of our organization in sponsoring annual bowling championships is to promote good sportsman-ship, fraternalism and national interest in the Slovak Catholic Sokol. As you know, each year the Supreme Assembly, recogniz-ing the great importance of bowling in our organization, do-nated $55.00 to the prize fund for each team entry entered in theNational Tournament. This fi nancial contribution on the part of our organization is added to the regular prize fee of $180.00 per team collected by the bowlers. All prize fees collected will be refunded 100% in prizes. In order to successfully operate our tournaments, we must have cooperation and exact adherence to all entry rules and regulations which govern teams and individuals. Please read these rules carefully. Do not overlook any de-tail. Comply with all requests at time entry blank is being fi lled out and when sending it in with the proper money order, certi-fi ed cheque or bank draft. Be sure you have the bowlers affi da-vits as of all sanctioned league averages for 21 games or more in accordance with our rules governing averages. This will speed up the mailing of prizes after results have been checked.Remember that false information will result in forfeiture of all rights to prizes.

RULES AND REGULATIONS 1. The Slovak Catholic Sokol Championship Tourna-ment is open to all members of our organization, both male and female (no juniors) who are in good standing and have been members for at least (3) three months SPL or (1) one year for all other policies, prior to the date of tournament with a minimum of $3000.00 coverage. Policy Holders - no Social Members. As mandated by the 2007 Convention, all new members enrolled after January 1, 2008 will require a new minimum of $5,000.00 of insurance coverage to participate in the 2011 program. 2a. All members of the competing teams must be mem-bers of the same Assembly or Wreath. There is no limit to the number of teams from each Assembly or Wreath. 2b. An Assembly or Wreath not having enough bowlers to make up a team may combine with another Assembly or Wreath to make up a team. 3. Doubles teams may be from any Assembly or Wreath

for both Men and Women Divisions. 4. All participants must be certifi ed by the respective As-sembly or Wreath Financial Secretary and may enter only once for each division. 5. High Score recognition automatically extended to USBC members. Eligible nonmembers can qualify for high score recognition at their option by paying a $5.00 participa-tion fee. Affi liated membership is $21.00. 6. There will be at least one prize for each (10) ten entries in each event, and each (20) twenty entries for All-Events for Men and Women. 7. All-Events (optional), shall be handicap. This prize fund is a separate entry ($3.00) and no tournament expense fee is assessed for this. Only those entrants paying this fee are eligible. Please indicate All-Events entries by placing an “X” before names in Team Entry space on Entry Form side. 8. Prize fee will be $6.00 per bowler per event. Cost of bowling and tournament expenses $9.00 per bowler per event. Total = $15.00 per event. 9. No entry money will be returned for any reason. All prize fee money plus $55.00 per team. 10. The United States Bowling Congress rules and regu-lations apply to all bowlers. 11. The Championship in both Men’s and Women’s Divi-sions will receive individual trophies. Winning team members will receive individual trophies. In the event of a tie for cham-pionship, lowest team handicap will receive trophies, cash prizes will be divided equally. 12a. Handicap (Men) allowed will be 80% of the differ-ence between 200 and last season’s 2009-2010 highest sanc-tioned league average of at least 21 games. Bowlers who have no established average will use their highest sanctioned league average of at least 21 games as of Jan. 1, 2011. A male bowler whose current average of 21 games or more at time of entry is (10) pins or more higher than the previous season’s aver-age must use his current average. Male bowlers who have no established average for this year or last year will be listed as 175 average and will be handicapped accordingly. Handicap will be limited to 100 pins per man per event. If the bowler does not have a sanctioned average over the last two years, the

SLOVAK CATHOLIC SOKOL

Indicate "X"

DBL SNG ALL BNQ

TEAM EVENTAVERAGENAME

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

ALT.

DOUBLES AVERAGE

1.

2.

1.

2.

1.

2.

All remittances must be in form of Certified Cheque or Money OrderIN U.S. FUNDS made payable to: Slovak Catholic Sokol SportsAccount, c/o Edward Moeller, 2821 Waterman Avenue, Pittsburgh,

PA (USA) 15227, Telephone (412) 881-3506.

Prize Fee (per person)Cost of Bowling (per person)Tournament Expense (per person)

$ 6.00 each event6.50 each event2.50 each event

15.00 each eventTOTAL

All Events Handicap (Optional)Awards Banquet (Optional)

Banquet & Bowling Entry

3.00 extra25.00 per person

$ 73.00 per person

PRIZE FEES WILL BE REFUNDED 100% IN PRIZES

USBCNo.

POLICYNo.

ASSEMBLYWREATH

CITY OR TEAM NAME:

ADDRESS / CITY / STATE / ZIPPlease provide FULL DETAILS for PROMPT PAYMENT of PRIZE MONEY LEAGUE NAME / CITY

MEN'S HANDICAP TOURNAMENTTEAM: 1000 Scratch • DOUBLES: 400 • SINGLES: 200 Scratch

Handicap will be 80% of the difference between 200 and the highest last season's 2009-2010 sanctioned league average of at least 21 games.

Handicap will be limited to 100 pins per man per event.

Bowlers having no average as of last season will use highest sanctioned league average of 21 games or more as of January 1, 2011.

WOMEN'S HANDICAP TOURNAMENTTEAM: 900 Scratch • DOUBLES: 360 • SINGLES: 180 Scratch

Handicap will be 80% of the difference between 180 and the highest last season's 2009-2010 sanctioned league average of at least 21 games.

Handicap will be limited to 100 pins per woman per event.

Bowlers having no average as of last season will use highest sanctioned league average of 21 games or more as of January 1, 2011.

As mandated by the 2003 Convention, ALL Entry Forms must be completed properly. Each Bowler must have a

Slovak Catholic Sokol Insurance Policy Number listed or Bowling Application will

be returned. Policy must be in good standing at time of entry.

If Bowler does not have a USBC card, cost for membership is $21.00).

"Participation only" fee is $5.00 per participant.

NOTICEEvery contestant must be a member in good standing in the Slovak Catholic Sokol at least three (3) months Single Premium Life or one (1) year for all other policies, prior to tournament date.

POLICY HOLDERS - NO SOCIAL MEMBERS.

Every individual and captain of a team entry agrees to relinquish all rights to prize money if any information listed herein is false.

Each team captain agrees to abide by Slovak Catholic Tournament rules and regulations prescribed by the USBC, and listed on the reverse hereof.

CAPTAIN:SIGNATURE DATE TEL. #

ASSEMBLY/WREATH PRESIDENT:SIGNATURE DATE

65TH ANNUALINTERNATIONAL BOWLING TOURNAMENT

Friday / Saturday/Sunday, May 20 - 22, 2011

Bowl-O-Rama4100 Perkiomen AvenueReading, PA USA 19606

(610) 779-3090

SANCTIONED BY THE USBC MORAL SUPPORT WITH HIGH SCORE RECOGNITION

TEAM EVENT:

TIMES FOR BOTH TEAM AND DOUBLES/SINGLES ARE LISTED BELOW:

TWO SQUADS FRIDAY, MAY 20, 20115:30 PM

DOUBLES /SINGLES:

TWO SQUADS SATURDAY, MAY 21, 20118:30 AM

8:15 PM

ONE SQUAD SUNDAY, MAY 22, 20119:00 AM

12:30 PM

READ THESE RULES CAREFULLY

65th International Slovak Catholic Sokol Bowling TournamentBowl-O-Rama Lanes + The Inn at Reading + Reading, Pa.

Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, May 20, 21 and 22, 2011

(Continued on page 12)

Sokol bowlers and guests willbe housed at the

Inn at Reading Hotel 1040 North Park Road

Reading, Pennsylvania 19606Tel. (610) 372-7811

The cost for a double roomis $89.00 per night plus tax

Deadline for all room reservations is April 20, 2011

The competition will beheld at the newly remodeled

Bowl-O-Rama Lanes4100 Perkiomen Avenue

Reading, Pennsylvania 19606Tel. (610) 779-3090

For additional information on this year’s tournament contact

Edward D. MoellerSupreme Director ofSports and AthleticsTel. (412) 881-3506

email: moellerref@aol.com

SLOVAK CATHOLIC FALCON, MARCH 9, 2011 PAGE 7

What's making headlines in our ancestral homeland

News and Views from Slovakia...

(Continued on page 8)

The village of Vysne Ruzbachy is located below the Spisska Magura mountains in northeastern Slova-kia. The area is well-known for its spas with thermal healing natural springs. The area was inhabited in pre-historic times. The fi rst written reference to the village dates from the year 1329. Between 1412 and 1772, the village was given to the Polish king to secure a loan. Local villagers labored mostly as farmers, weavers and merchants with cattle. Its thermal spas became very popular beginning in the 15th century. A total of nine springs produce more than 40 quarts of mineral water per second. Today, the village is a popular tourist site. Scenes of the thermal lake and tourist facilities are shown above.

Slovakia to train Iragis to useBozena Mine-clearance device Slovakia should provide training to Iraqi pyrotechnicians to help them to use the Slovak-made Bozena mine-clearance device, Slovak Defense Minister Lubomir Galko said after meeting Iraqi Ambassador to Slovakia Matheel Dhayif Ma-jeed Al-Sabti on February 16. Although the training program, which was supposed to take place in Slovakia, was planned by the former govern-ment, it has never been carried out. Iraq owns 28 Bozenas, but its pyrotechnicians haven’t been trained to use them properly. “I believe that in cooperation with NATO we’ll manage to do this,” said Galko. Slovakia is specifi cally responsible for providing training to pyrotechnicians from NATO-member countries in Trencin. The Iraqi ambassador stated that the concerns of Slovak entrepreneurs vis-a-vis investing in Iraq are unnecessary, and that businesses from other countries are engaging more active-ly in reconstructing Iraq. “They(Slovak companies) may have unjustifi ed con-cerns about security and stability. The situation in the country is calm, however,” said Al-Sabti. Galko further met Cyrpus’s Ambassador Marios Koun-tourides, who praised Slovakia’s engagement in the UNFICYP peace-keeping operation in Cyprus. Galko said that apart from the traditionally above-stan-dard relations with the Czech Republic, his closest relations are with Cyprus. “The frequency of bilateral visits confi rms these strifeless relations,” he said.

Slota: Cabinet has no mandate to sign citizenship treaty with Hungary Following parliamentary rejection of the government’s amendment to the State Citizenship Act, the cabinet lacks a mandate from parliament and the people to conclude an inter-national treaty between Slovakia and Hungary on state citizen-ship, opposition Slovak National Party (SNS) chairman Jan Slota said in a statement provided to TASR on February 16. According to Slota, the treaty must be preceded by a society-wide discussion. SNS doesn’t see any reason why the treaty should be signed at all, however, and describes the Slo-vak government’s initiative as “servile.” Slota stated that the issue of dual state citizenship is the result of “Hungarian expansionism.” He stressed that parlia-ment at a recent session gave a negative response when it came to further concessions to Hungary, meaning that the govern-ment’s high-handedness smacks of treason.” Slovak Interior Ministry State Secretary Maros Zilinka earlier this week handed to the Hungarian side a draft of the treaty between Slovakia and Hungary on Dealing with Certain Issues Pertaining to State Citizenship. According to the Slovak ministry, the draft is in line with an agreement made by Slovak Premier Iveta Radicova and her Hungarian counterpart Viktor Orban in January. Hungary should submit its stance towards the draft within two weeks.

Dzurinda: Slovakia currently unableto meet its military commitments Foreign Affairs Minister Mikulas Dzurinda conceded on February 16 that Slovakia is currently not able to meet its commitment of spending two percent of its GDP on defense. Dzurinda said this after the government’s session held on the same day, adding that Slovakia is aware of its obligations. “We try to reason along the same lines as other countries do - namely, that it’s because of the phase we’re going through. All countries are focusing fi rst and foremost on overcoming the impact of the crisis, so that their people feel its consequenc-

es as little as possible,” said Dzurinda. He added that the failure to meet this commitment is closely linked also to the need to fi nish the highway construction, the cre-ation of new jobs, stimulation of the foreign investments and the attempt to reduce the unemployment rate. Nonetheless, Dzurinda said he is meeting with a positive evaluation of Slovakia’s participation in military missions in Kosovo, Afghanistan and Cyprus. “When I spoke with NATO Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen, we also discussed the fact that the two percent level has slipped away from us. It’s true, there’s no denying it,” said Dzurinda. Because of this, Rasmussen is putting forward a proj-ect based on which NATO will react to the situation in the world caused by the global economic crisis. On February 18, Dzurinda met with Defense Minister Lu-bomir Galko. “We have to try to fi nd solutions in order for Slova-kia to remain a credible partner,” the foreign minister said. “Our missions have earned Slovakia a good international reputation.”

Slovakia and Romania agree onissue of Kosovo’s independence Recognizing the independence of Kosovo(formerly a part of Serbia) should not be made a condition for admitting other coun-tries to the European Union, Slovak Foreign Affairs Minister Mi-kulas Dzurinda and his Romanian counterpart Teodor Baconschi agreed at a meeting in Bratislava on February 17. At the same time, the ministers expressed support for dia-logue between Serbia and Kosovo, which unilaterally declared independence from Belgrade on February 17, 2008. Slovakia and Romania are among the fi ve EU-member countries that have re-fused to recognize Kosovo’s declaration of independence. “The goal isn’t recognizing(an independent) Kosovo, but be-ing helpful in achieving a mutually acceptable and lasting peace-ful solution between Serbia and Pristina. This is how we view our role,” said Dzurinda. The stance of the fi ve countries is “more con-tributing than the contrary” in achieving this goal, said Dzurinda. Baconschi stated that Romania hasn’t recognized Kosovo’s independence because it doesn’t favor unilateral separatism, which is at variance with international law. The ministers observed that the opinions of their respective countries are close when it comes to other international issues, such as the EU’s Eastern Partnership, engagement in the Western Balkans, the integration of Roma(gypsy) into society, energy secu-rity and the Danube Strategy. Both expressed support for “Euro-pean development” in Moldova. Baconschi’s visit to Slovakia included the opening of an ex-hibition of archive documents commemorating the 90th anniver-sary of the setting-up of diplomatic relations between Czechoslo-vakia and Romania. The exhibition at the Foreign Affairs Ministry features archive documents and images depicting key moments in relations between Romania and Slovakia.

Electricity charges for companies inSlovakia among he highest in the EU Slovakia has among the highest electricity charges for com-panies in the European Union, stated the Finance Ministry’s anal-ysis department the Financial Policy Institute(IFP) on February 16. The end price of electricity includes fi nancial support for the mining sector and private investors in the sphere of renewable sources and takes account of the combined production of electric-ity and heat. “Electricity consumers will contribute $410 million to some electricity producers and domestic coal producers in 2011,” calculated IFP, adding that without such contributions, electricity charges would be lower. IFP also points to an environmental paradox - that consum-ers support non-ecological coal and renewable sources at the same time.

According to the analysts, energy prices in Slovakia have been exceeding the EU average for a long time. In the fi rst half of 2010, electricity charges for a fi rm with average consump-tion were 26-percent higher than the average and the second-highest in the EU after Cyprus, state Eurostat’s data. On the other hand, regulated electricity charges for households have been moving around the EU average for along time. According to IFP, lower electricity charges can only be secured by more competition on the market. Competition is discouraged by regulated charges, which are very high, how-ever. They are set every year by the Offi ce for the Regulation of Network Industries(URSO) and represent around 50 percent of the end price. The tariffs are among the highest in ´Europe. “It would be appropriate, therefore, to carry out a thorough analysis of how justifi able their level is,” added IFP.

Bratislava roads to seetheir fi rst electric car With the launch of the battery-powered city car CITROEN C-ZERO made by Dalkia and Citroen companies, Bratislava’s roads will see their fi rst all-electric production ve-hicle in regular use, TASR, learned on February 24. The city car, which was presented to journalists on the same day, will mainly be seen in the borough of Petrzalka. It’s supposed to be used by technicians working for the French multinational energy company Dalkia during their inspections of company units, such as boiler houses. The use of the car constitutes another step in the com-pany’s quest for energy-saving measures and curtailment of

PAGE 8 SLOVAK CATHOLIC FALCON, MARCH 9, 2011

News and Views from Slovakia...(Continued from page 7)

For students currently attending a Catholic High School

Slovak Catholic Sokol Abbot Jerome M. Koval, O.S.B. Memorial

High School Grant As per the decision of the delegates at the 26th National Convention held in New Haven, CT in August, 1991, and amended at the 28th National Convention held in Buffalo, NY in 1999, the Slovak Catholic Sokol is pleased to offer $500.00 grants to one young Sokol or Sokolka in each of our organization's nineteen Groups. These 19 Grants are available to any qualifi ed Sokol member currently attending a Catholic High School.

Eligibility

A. Applicant must be a member of the Slovak Catholic Sokol in good standing, holding a permanent Life Insurance Certifi cate in the amount of not less than $3,000, and has been a member for at least fi ve year. Application is also available on the Internet @

www.slovakcatholicsokol.org

B. One parent must be a S.C.S. member.

C. The principal of the Catholic High School must verify the enrollment of the applicant.

Application

ALONG WITH THE APPLICATION you must submit a typed or written essay DOUBLE SPACED in 100 to 200 words on the following topic: “WHAT DOES THE SLOVAK CATHOLIC SOKOL MEAN TO ME?” This essay must be submitted along with the application. This application must be received on or before, March 31, 2011 with a clear, small (2"x3" wallet size) head and shoulders photograph.

Disqualifi cation An applicant who neglects to submit or com-plete any part of these requirements before the established deadline will automatically be disqualifi ed.

Acknowledgment An acknowledgment of the Grant should be made in writing by the recipient as soon as pos-sible, if you are awarded a Grant.

Return of Grant If for any reason the Grant is not used by the recipient, the entire (or portion of) grant not utilized must be returned.

✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄✄

(Detach here)

SLOVAK CATHOLIC SOKOL ABBOT JEROME M. KOVAL, O.S.B. MEMORIALHIGH SCHOOL GRANT APPLICATION

Group #_______________ Assembly/Wreath #_______________

Name____________________________________________________________________

Address___________________________________________________________________

City________________________ State________________ Zip Code________________

Date of Birth_________________________________________ Current Age __________

Home Phone (_____)________________ High School Phone (_____)________________ area code area code

S.C.S. Insurance Certifi cate #______________ Face Amount_____________________ S.C.S. Insurance Certifi cate #______________ Face Amount_____________________

S.C.S. Insurance Certifi cate #______________ Face Amount_____________________

Father's name_____________________________________ Are you a member? ______

Mother's name_____________________________________ Are you a member? ______

Parent’s S.C.S. Insurance Certifi cate #_____________________ Face Amount___________

Parent’s S.C.S. Insurance Certifi cate #_____________________ Face Amount___________

Are you a previous Slovak Catholic Sokol Scholarship Recipient? _________ If yes, please (yes/no)

indicate Grade School or High School. What year?_________

High School verifi cation (to be completed by High School Principal)

I,______________________________ Principal of________________________________ (Principal's signature) (Name of School)

Catholic High School, verify that__________________________________ is a student at (Name of student)

the above school and will be attending ______ ___ Grade in the 2011-2012 school year.

Are you currently participating in Slovak Catholic Sokol Activities? Yes_____ No_____

Deadline for receipt of this application is March 31, 2011. Return completed application to:

Slovak Catholic Sokol High School Grant205 Madison St., P.O. Box 899, Passaic, NJ 07055

emissions at the local level, TASR was told. Petrzalka Mayor Vladimir Bajan gave kudos to Dalkia’s contribution in cutting emissions. A variety of measures combined for a reduction in emis-sions in Petrzalka by 550 tones on an annual basis, he said.

Bratislava Region’s GDP per capitaranked as EU’s ninth highest The Gross Domestic Product(GDP) generated by the Bratislava Region of western Slovakia was the ninth largest from among the EU countries’ re-gions in 2008, according to data from Eurostat that was released on February 24. Bratislava region’s GDP per inhabitant stood at 167 percent of an aver-age regional GDP within the bloc as calculated based on he purchasing power standard (PPS). Of the new EU countries, only the Czech Republic’s Prague region is ranked among the top 20, earning the 6th spot on 172 percent of the EU-region average. Inner London(343 percent), the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg(279 percent) and Brussels(216 percent) topped the chart. Meanwhile, Bulgaria’s Severozapadne(northwest) region and Romania’s Nord-Est come in at the very bottom on 29 and 28 percent, respectively. Sixty-four of a total of 271 regions monitored were below 75 percent of the EU-average, with Slovakia’s western, central and eastern parts all included in the sub-par performance.

Cabinet to lend, rather than give,funds for new ice-hockey arena Instead of simply granting the funds needed to complete Bratislava’s new Ondrej Nepela Ice-Hockey Arena, the government will provide City Hall with a $15 million loan spanning fi ve years at an interest rate of 3.5 percent, Finance Minister Ivan Miklos told a press conference on February 25. The minister remarked that, pursuant to a deal closed between the former government and the city council, the state was supposed to cover 54.23 percent of the total expenditures which were estimated to be $82 million. However, doubts have emerged as to whether the $46 million given to date has been used in an effi cient manner, said Miklos. “This is why an in-depth audit of the stadium’s fi nancing will ensue after the World Champion-ships,” he added. According to Bratislava’s Mayor Milan Ftacnik, City Hall still needs $34 million towards work that was completed as early as last year, as well as for work due to be performed later this year. “A $15 million loan over fi ve years is a good deal for the city, as it will help spread out the burden on the city in a more even manner,” said the mayor, also advocating checks on the use of the fund. “The bad news is that all ad-ditional expenditures will be to the detriment of the city,” he added.

Group 10 members welcome to participate

Assembly 78 to host its 5th Annual SinglesBowling Tournament May 1 in Bethlehem, Pa. Assembly 78 under the patronage of St. Anthony of Padua, will host its 5th annual Singles Bowling Tournament on Sunday, May 1 in Bethlehem, Pa. The fraternal competition will be held at the National Sokol Bowling Lanes located at 613 Hillside Avenue in Bethlehem, Pa. Show up time is set for 12 noon and competi-tion will begin promptly at 1 p.m. An enjoyable afternoon of Sokol good sportsmanship and fellowship is assured. In addition to mem-bers of Assembly 78, we extend a cordial invitation to our brother and sister Sokol members from all our Group 10 lodges, including Assembly 57 of Allentown, Assembly 72 of Catasauqua, Assembly 255 of Egypt and Assembly 32 of Palmerton, Pa. The tournament will include a 3-game handicapped event with a top four fi nishers rolloff for the champion. Prizes will be awarded the top four fi nishers. Handicap 100% difference from 200 average(average does not need to be from any established bowling league). Following the competition on the lanes, we will enjoy our traditional victory reception and hot meal in the social hall of the National Sokol facility. Cost for Sokol members is $20.00 per per-son which includes bowling and the dinner. Guests are welcome at the cost of $25.00 for bowling and the meal. In order to make the necessary arrangements, we ask that those interested in participat-ing in this fraternal event register by the deadline date of April 24. For additional information on this year’s competition, feel free to contact tournament director, Fran Blanar at tel. (610)866-8381. Since the inception of this annual sporting event, we have noticed that the number of participants has steadily increased. We hope to welcome many more fi rst timers at this year’s tournament as well. An enjoyable time will be had by all. Zdar Boh! Fran Blanar Assembly 78 Sports Director

SLOVAK CATHOLIC FALCON, MARCH 9, 2011 PAGE 9

Slovaks enjoy a treasury of be-loved religious hymns for various seasons of the Church year. During the Lenten season, there are many

hymns which so beautifully refl ect our sentiments on Christ’s pas-sion and death. In former years, these be-loved Slovak Lenten hymns

were sung in our Slovak churches. With the decline of the use of the Slovak language in America and the closure of many Slovak churches, the current generations are not exposed to this treasury of Slovak hymnody. Moj Mily Jezisu is one such Lenten hymn. In the presentation which fol-lows, the verses appear fi rst in Eng-lish translation followed by the Slo-vak original. This hymn presents the epitome of Jesus’ love. We see him offer his life to the extreme limits of pain and death so as to provide the ultimate healing and restoration of each of our lives - spiritually, physically, psycho-logically, emotionally. So powerful is the force of this love expressed by God’s Son. The results are immedi-ate: “This day you will be with me in Paradise”(Lk 23:43). “This was an innocent man” (Lk 23:47). “Peter....wept bitterly (Lk 22:62). This climax is the culmination of how Jesus extended his love through-out his life, to all that would receive it. As to a magnetic attraction, the Apostles left “all” to follow him. Not only did his charismatic personal-ity draw them, but challenged them to commit to an apprenticeship with this dynamic young teacher and prophet(Lk4:32). He called each of them personally, convincingly, to be co-workers and friends. There was no doubt regarding his caring love for them. And they followed to the end. The ministry of Jesus is pro-foundly grounded(Lk 4:18-19). He is totally focused, loving his work and all his encounters. He knows well the risk and pain of such loving. “No prophet gains acceptance in his native place”(Lk 4:24). He goes fi rst to Galilee and Nazareth. There, in his home town, after “marveling at his appealing discourse”(Lk 4:22), they became indignant and “expelled him from the town”(Lk 4:29). Jesus, life becomes an open book as he teaches everyone to give and receive love. “You shall love the Lord your God with your whole heart, with your whole soul and with all your mind...You shall love your neighbor as yourself”(Mt 22:37-38). However, Jesus does not only teach but is the living message of love. His authority and power over-fl ow into action and draw those in need to seek him out. His love is generous and universal. “They car-ried to him all those affl icted with various diseases and racked with pain: the possessed, the lunatics, the paralyzed”(Mt 5:24). Some additional characteristic of

A translation of a Slovak Lenten hymn

Beloved Jesus - Moj Mily Jezisuby Sister Maria Theresa Hronec, SS.C.M.

Jesus’ love are as follows: Spontaneity - when asked. After the leper asked for a cure, Jesus said “‘Be cured’...the man’s leprosy dis-appeared” (Mt 8:3). Spontaneity - without being asked when he found Peter’s mother-in-law ill, “He took her by the hand and the fever left her”(Mt 8:15). Inclusive - As the Centurion hum-bly requests a healing for his servant boy, Jesus says, “‘Go home. It shall be done because you trusted.’ That very moment the boy got better”(Mt 8:13). Awareness - Jesus allowed divine power to work through him. The heal-ing happened directly by means of this very power. When a woman with a 12-year hemorrhage touched his clothing, immediately the fl ow of blood dried up. Jesus immediately was conscious that power had gone out from him. Then he said, “Go in peace and be free of this illness”(Mk 5:34). Tangible - Jesus usually made

physical contact with the one in need. “He...touched the litter. He said, ‘Young man, I bid you get up.’ The dead man sat up”(Lk 7:14-15). We have briefl y reviewed these examples of Jesus’ life of love. Con-sider your own response when you truly care for someone close to you - child, parent, spouse, sibling or friend. Examine our solicitude for someone with whom you work - a patient, student, colleague, associate, companion or stranger. These senti-ments of concern go through many levels of love. Each of these oppor-tunities has been placed into our lives by God’s providence. Now we are called to do God’s work. These are not great acts of heroism, but great acts of love in simple, daily ways: helpfulness, kindness, compassion, mercy, benevolence, forgiveness. As in the life of Jesus, these virtues can and will bring healing to others and to us, as we open our hearts, minds and wills to this power of love. Jesus tells us,”Whoever believes in me will perform the same works as I do myself, they will perform even greater works because I am going to the Father”(Jn 14:12).

Beloved Jesus1. Beloved Jesus, please bless me with your healing and peace; By your redeeming pain - salvation now I obtain. O good, kind Jesus, exhausted Jesus, O Jesus!

Môj milý Ježišu, rajská slasť pre dušu, skrz svoje mučenie získals’ nám spasenie.Ó dobrý Ježišu, mučený Ježišu, ó Ježišu!

2. You did not think of self, left heaven with us to dwell; A bitter death endured - my soul’s new life procured. Obedient Jesus, beloved Jesus, O Jesus!

Neľutoval seba,zostúpil k nám z neba,trpkú smrť podstúpil, aby nás vykúpil.Poslušný Ježišu, láskavý Ježišu, ó Ježišu!

3. For me your blood was sweat, your patient love was spent; I see this world’s great hate - injustice was your fate. O suff ’ring Jesus, my gracious Jesus, O Jesus!

Za mňa si krv potil, v zármutku sa topil, vidiac tú sveta zlosť, premohutnú neprávosť.Bolestivý Ježišu, môj sladký Ježišu, ó Ježišu!

4. Lo! bound with cruel ropes, Jesus my love and hope Is dragged across the ground - as laughter and scorn abound. Downtrodden Jesus, dear gentle Jesus, O Jesus!

Hľa, už zviazaného Ježiša milého po zemi váľajú,na posmech dávajú.Zviazaný Ježišu, môj sladký Ježišu, ó Ježišu!

5. Such massive wounds, fi erce blows, great agony, painful woes; No mercy, justice shown - so helpless and alone. My wounded Jesus, beloved Jesus, O Jesus!

Tak hrozne mnoho rándostal nebeský Pán.Ukrutne strýznený už leží na zemi.Strýznený Ježišu, môj milý môj Ježišu, ó Ježišu!

came a voice that said,“This is my beloved Son,with whom I am well pleased;listen to him.”When the disciples heard this,they fell prostrateand were very much afraid.But Jesus came and touched them,saying,“Rise, and do not be afraid.”And when the disciples raised their eyes,they saw no one else but Jesus alone.As they were coming down from the mountain,Jesus charged them,“Do not tell the vision to anyoneuntil the Son of Manhas been raised from the dead.”

The Gospel of the Lord.

Gospel for the Second Sunday of Lent(Continued from page 4)

As you know, our organization talks a lot about heritage and traditions. We recently hosted a “SCS Heritage Membership Cam-paign”. So why do we use words like this when it comes to our

organization? Tradition means a great deal to me. Tradition is something that is passed down from generation to generation. I looked up the defi nition of the word tradition. The dictionary tells us that it is something someone is born to, practices that are handed down from the past tradition, something that is inherited.

Heritage means to me my ethnic background, where my family came from. I looked the defi nition up of heritage also and it said: something somebody is born to: the status, conditions, or character acquired by being born into a particular family or social class and riches of past: a country’s or area’s history and historical buildings and sites that are considered to be of interest and value to present generations To me, these words have their own unique meaning but are very similar at the same time. We should be proud of our heritage and our traditions. We belong to organization that has been active for over 105 years and that prides itself on these two words. So I would like to ask everyone, do you pass down your traditions? Do you teach the younger generations about our heritage? My whole life, I’ve been told how important heritage is, and knowing one’s background. I have always been told to be proud of where I have come from. To me, heritage simply reinforces the identity we have in relation to the outside world. But I want to know what does heritage and tradition mean to you? This question has no right or wrong answer. Our organization tries very hard to keep our traditions and there-fore our Slovak heritage in existence. One example of a tradition within our organization is our International Slet, which is held ev-ery two years. I know that many parents, grandparents and great-grandparents have competed in these events as children. So my next question is, “Are your children and grandchildren participat-ing in this event? Maybe yes, maybe no, but I can’t think of a better way to pass this tradition on. My grandparents and parents signed me up for my fi rst Slet when I was nine 9 years old and I can’t wait to pass this tradition along to my children someday. It’s not too late to get involved in these traditions; our next Inter-national Slet is this scheduled for July 12th to 16th at Kutztown University in Kutztown, PA. Contact your local Group Physical Directress or Physical Director now to get involved. If you have never attended a Slet, give the tradition a try, you won’t be disap-pointed! Zdar Boh!

What Do Traditions and Heritage Really Mean?

By Denise DiMartinoMember of the Supreme Physical Fitness Board

Slovak Fashion Night set in the Big Apple The annual Slovak Fashion Night, which features the creativity of Slovak designers, from both sides of the piond, will be staged in New York City on Friday evening, May 13th at Capitale, located at 130 Bowery Street in lower Manhattan. Festivities begin at 7:30 p.m. and will include drinks and hors d’oeuvres, a fashion show as well as an after show party with the DJ Noyze. Donation admission is $30.00 per person. For VIP tickets pur-chase via info@plus42l.org. Come meet and greet some new Slovak couturiers!

PAGE 10 SLOVAK CATHOLIC FALCON, MARCH 9, 2011

KIDS’ CORNER March, 2011

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU!!!!!

Zachary Banaszek 3/2 Candice Kraykovich 3/4 Taylor Hazelbaker 3/13 Danielle Baran 3/21 Zachary Eckenrode 3/21

Facts About March

According to the Georgian calendar, March is the third month of the year. According to the early Roman calen-dar, it was the first month and was called Martius. The ancient Romans later made January 1 the beginning of the year, and March became the third month on the cal-endar.

March has always had 31 days.

Its name honors Mars, the Roman God of war.

Birthstone -- The Aquamarine

Birth Flower- The March Birth Flower is the Jonquil (aka Daffodil or Narcissus) Meaning of the March Birth Flower:

The meaning of the March Birth Flower, the Jonquil

happiness. Sign of the Zodiac and Dates: Pisces - February 19th - March 20th Aries – March 21st – April 19th

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March Madness - Julie Ann Dobbs

Supreme Vice President This March is a month filled with promise. The promise of spring coming soon. The promise of Easter right around the corner and with that the promise that we made to Jesus while we wait to celebrate his rising from the dead. And, if you happen to live at my house it’s the promise that we will be watching a lot of college basketball this month. We Catholics call this time before Easter, the Lenten season, or Lent for short. I bet most of you have al-ready learned about Lent and have probably already chosen some-thing to “give up” or maybe something special “to do” during this time. These choices you make are called sacrifices. To sacrifice, say television or candy, is not an easy thing to do. Sacrificing your time to help someone is als not easy. But the great thing is that with each sacrifice comes a reward. The child who gives up TV in the evenings may find the time to explore other interests like books, outdoor activities, board games, and friends and family. The child who chooses to give of his or her time may discover the joy of making someone’s day. If you chose to give up a favorite treat or snack, you may discover other teats you like just as well, and imagine how good that special treat will taste after you have met your promise. Choosing something to sacrifice is not the tough part. The hardest part is keeping our promise to Jesus. My then, 5 year old son explained it to me like this….”On Ash Wednesday we get ashes on our forehead to remind us of our promise to Jesus”. My challenge to you is to keep your promise. If you already have cho-sen a Lenten promise keep meeting that challenge. If you have-n’t…it’s not too late. Make a promise and keep it. If you’re not careful, you may actually learn from the experience.

(aka Daffodil or Narcissus) is friendship and domestic

SLOVAK CATHOLIC FALCON, MARCH 9, 2011 PAGE 11

Scenes of the Annual Meeting and Children’s ChristmasParty hosted by Assembly 162

SS. Cyril and Methodius Church Hall + Clifton, New Jersey + Sunday, December 21

Supreme Secretary Steven M. Pogorelec, F.I.C., who serves as the fi nancial secretary of Assembly 162, is shown with three generations of his family who enjoyed the fes-tivities. Shown seated with his lovely wife, Annie are grandchildren, l-r, Steven Jacob Pogorelec and Daniel Steven O’Sullivan. Standing, are his son, Steven M., Jr. and daughter-in-law, Emily Pogorelec; and daughter, Attorney Jennifer Anne O’Sullivan.

Joseph Lojek poses for a photo with Santa with his daughter, Diane and grandchil-dren.

New chaplain - At the annual meeting, the Rev. Richard A. Bay was elected to serve as the Assem-bly’s new chaplain. A son of SS. Cyril and Metho-dius Parish, he currently serves as Coordinator of Special Projects at Catholic Charities in the Dio-cese of Paterson. Looking on is Supreme Secretary Steven M. Pogorelec, F.I.C. who administered the oath of offi ce to Father Bay.

Party coordinator, John Termyna answers a call from Santa indicating that he’s on the way.

PAGE 12 SLOVAK CATHOLIC FALCON, MARCH 9, 2011

(Continued from page 6)

most recent 5 year history of Sokol tournaments will be used. If none of the above apply, the average of 175 for men will be used. 12b. All participants will be governed by rerating requirements of USBC Rule 319e. Average to be adjusted accordingly. Failure to use the current average shall disqualify score if submitted average is lower than correct average thereby resulting in a lower classifi cation of more handi-cap. Prize winnings shall be based on the submitted average if it is higher. However corrections in averages may be permitted up to the completion of the fi rst game of a series. 12c. Handicap (Women) allowed will be 80% of the difference be-tween 180 and last season’s 2009-2010 highest sanctioned league average of at least 21 games. Bowlers who have no established average will use their highest sanctioned league average of at least 21 games as of Jan. 1, 2011. A female bowler whose current average of 21 games or more at time of entry is (10) pins or more higher than the previous season’s average must use her current average. Female bowlers who have no established average for this year or last year will be listed as 150 average and will be handi-capped accordingly. Handicap will be limited to 100 pins per woman per event. If the bowler does not have a sanctioned average over the last two years, the most recent 5 year history of Sokol tournaments will be used. If none of the above apply, the average of 150 for women will be used. 14. Teams wishing to bowl all nine games as Team, Double and Sin-gles in one day or a specifi c day or time must submit that request at time of entry. 15. List team names in order of lineup to bowl. The USBC substitute rule will be used in the event it is necessary. Average certifi cation must ac-company entry form. 16. All teams must bowl according to the published schedule. In order to ensure your choice of schedule time, send entries in early. 17. Bowlers have 48 hours from completion of tournament to notify manager of error in score. 18. Every consideration will be granted to request date/time prefer-ences for out-of-town teams and individual bowlers. The success of the tournament depends upon all participants. 19. Bowlers need not report information as required by USBC (Rule 319d provision) for tournament prize winnings.

ENTRIES CLOSEMIDNIGHT, APRIL 8, 2011

READ THESE RULES CAREFULLY

READ THESE RULES CAREFULLY The annual meeting of Group 16 was held on Saturday, October 20, 2010 in Sterling Heights, Mich. The offi cers and delegates attended the 4 p.m. Mass at SS. Cyril and Methodius Slovak Church. The lit-urgy was celebrated for the living and deceased members of Group 16 was celebrated by the Rev. Francis X. Budovic, S.J.

Following the liturgy, the of-fi cers and delegates assembled in the Heritage Room of the parish. The meeting was called to order by the president Mark Papcun at 5:10 p.m. He then called upon the pastor of the parish and chaplain of Group 16, the Rev. Benjamin Kosnac for the opening prayer. Father Kosnac extended a warm welcome to the parish and greeted everyone in at-tendance. President Papcun then asked for a list of the names of those Group 16 members who passed away during the past year. A mo-ment of silence was offered for the deceased members. The president then called on the secretary, Madeline Stanek to read the roll call of offi cers and del-egates. Offi cers present included: Rev. Benjamin Kosnac, chaplain; Mark Papcun, president; Madeline Stanek, secretary; LaVerne Eland, treasurer; Steve Papcun, sports di-rector; Andrea Papcun, auditor and Michael Romanchik, Assembly 36 auditor. Offi cers who were absent included the following: Donald Papcun, vice president; Josephine Colleran, auditor; Joan Pupik, trea-

surer of Assembly 214 of Rossford, Oh.; and Hank Bardy, auditor of As-sembly 36. Minutes of the annual meeting held September 26, 2009 were sub-mitted by the Secretary Madeline Stanek. The minutes were approved as published in our offi cial publica-tion, the Slovak Catholic Falcon.

Reports of Offi cers The report of the presi-dent, Mark Papcun was then pre-sented. Brother Mark stated that 2010 has been a year of steady employment for him. However, the near to mid-term plans for he and his wife, Andrea are not to remain full time in Michigan. He stated that he would begin to encourage our current team of offi cers to begin the process of recruiting our next gen-eration of Group 16 leaders. There was no report submitted by the vice president, Donald Papcun. The report of the treasurer, La-Verne Eland was then presented. Sister Eland distributed a written fi nancial report to all in attendance. Approval of the written fi nancial re-port would follow the report of the Group 16 auditors. Sister LaVerne reported that she attended the annu-al festival of SS. Cyril and Metho-dius Parish held the last weekend of August, 2010. She further reported on an additional signature required on the signature card for the Group

Held in Sterling Heights, Mich.

Minutes of the Annual Meeting ofGroup 16 “Rev. Ferdis Juriga”

Delegates to the Group 16 annual meeting held in the Heritage Room of SS. Cyril and Methodius Parish in Sterling Heights, Mich. are shown above.

16 bank account at Charter One Bank. A motion was made to have the Sports Director Steve Papcun sign a new signature card as the replacement signature for the de-ceased vice president Arthur Eland. The motion was accepted. Sister Madeline Stanek then pre-sented her report as the Group sec-retary. She then submitted and read her individual report. Brother Steve Papcun then pre-sented his report as the Group Sports Director. He indicated that he along with Andrea Papcun, Mark Papcun, Michael Romanchik, his son-in-law Joseph Witt, and Hank Brady represented Group 16 at the 64th International Slovak Catholic Sokol Bowling Tournament at the Noble Manor Lanes in Pittsburgh, Pa., May 14-16, 2010. Andrea Papcun honored Group 16 by tak-ing the women’s doubles champi-onship at the bowling tournament in Pittsburgh. In addition, another long-time Group 16 Sokol activist,

Mark Papcun, president of Group 16, makes a point during the annual meeting of Group 16 held in Sterling Heights, Mich.

All smiles from Mike Roman-chik during the Group 16 annual meeting. Brother Mike received the Frank S. Petruff Memorial Sports Award at last year’s 64th International bowling tourna-ment.

LaVerne Eland, treasurer of Group 16 prepares to present her report at the Group 16 annual meeting.

All smiles from Andrea Papcun, who presents her auditor’s report at the Group 16 annual meeting.

Michael Romanchik was presented with the Frank S. Petruff Memorial Sports Award during the bowling banquet. Brother Romanchik serves as the auditor of Assembly 36 in Detroit, Mich. Our congratulations go out to both Sister Andrea and Brother Mike! The Sports Director Steve Pap-cun also reported that Mike Ro-manchik and his son-in-law Joe Witte competed at the 55th Interna-tional Slovak Catholic Sokol Golf Tournament at the Treasure Lake Resort Gold and Silver Courses in DuBois, Pa., August 6-8, 2010. Andrea Papcun then presented the auditor’s report. She indicated that she determined all bank statements, checking accounts, as well as other records, were found to be in order and recommended the approval of the re-port of the treasurer. On a motion by Mike Romanchik, seconded by Ve-ronica Stanek, the report of the auditor was accepted as presented.

New Business Under New Business, a sugges-tion was made to have a combined Assembly and Group meeting in the spring of 2011. We need to add younger people as new Sokol members. A sugges-tion was made to place an advertise-ment in the weekly bulletin of SS. Cyril and Methodius Parish in Ster-ling Heights, Mich. to recruit new members. John Papcun will be in

charge of recruiting new members. Mike Romanchik’s son is pre-paring a web site for Group 16. Mark Papcun will try to set up a website with the list of e-mail ad-dresses of Sokol members. We need to obtain the e-mail addresses of our members. On a motion by Andrea Papcun, it was agreed that $25.00 be given for the annual meeting Mass. In addi-tion, she recommended that Group 16 donate $50.00 to SS. Cyril and Methodius Church for the rental of the Heritage Room; that a stipend of $25.00 be given to our Group 16 Chaplain, Rev. Benjamin Kosnac and that a donation of $150.00 be given to SS. Cyril and Methodius’s Sister parish in Africa. President Mark Papcun will contact Father Kosnac regarding these donations. The motion for the above donations was unanimously accepted by the delegates. With no further business, the Group 16 annual meeting was adjourned on a motion by President Mark Papcun, seconded by Mike Romanchik. Presi-dent Mark Papcun then thanked all those in attendance for their time an input. Zdar Boh!

Respectfully submitted, Mark Papcun Group 16 President Madeline Stanek Group 16 Secretary

65th International Slovak Catholic Sokol Bowling Tournament

SLOVAK CATHOLIC FALCON, MARCH 9, 2011 PAGE 13

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For students entering a Catholic Grade School (Grades 2-8)

Slovak Catholic Sokol Catholic Grade School Grants

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Slovak Catholic SokolGrade School Grant

205 Madison St.,P.O. Box 899Passaic, NJ 07055

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SLOVAK CATHOLIC SOKOL CATHOLIC GRADE SCHOOL GRANT APPLICATION

Group #_______________ Assembly/Wreath #_______________

Name ___________________________________________________________________

Address _________________________________________________________________

City________________________ State________________ Zip Code ______________

Date of Birth_________________________________________ Current Age __________

Home Phone (_____)________________ School Phone (_____) ________________ area code area code

S.C.S. Insurance Certifi cate #____________ Face Amount_____________________ S.C.S. Insurance Certifi cate #____________ Face Amount_____________________ S.C.S. Insurance Certifi cate #____________ Face Amount_____________________ Father's name_____________________________________ Are you a member?______

Mother's name_____________________________________ Are you a member?______

Parent’s S.C.S. Insurance Certifi cate # ______________________Face Amount________

Parent’s S.C.S. Insurance Certifi cate # ______________________Face Amount________

Are you a previous Slovak Catholic Sokol Scholarship Recipient? ___________________ (yes/no)

If yes, what Year?____________

School verifi cation (to be completed by Grade School Principal)

I,______________________________ Principal of_______________________________ (Principal's signature) (Name of School)

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the above school and will be entering _________ Grade in the 2011-2012 school year.

Are you currently participating in Slovak Catholic Sokol Activities? Yes_____ No____

As per the decision of the delegates at the 28th National Convention held in Buffalo, NY in August, 1999, a fraternal benefi t is being offered to our young members attending a Catholic Grade School. The Slovak Catholic Sokol is pleased to offer $250.00 Grants to our young Sokols and Sokolky in each of our organization's nineteen Groups. Two grants per each Group are available to any qualifi ed Sokol member entering a Catholic Grade School (Grades 2 through 8).

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Sokol Birthdays

Group 5 “Jan Holly” will host its annual bowling tournament on Sunday, April 3 at Yorktown Bowl-ing Lanes in Parma Heights, Oh. Action on the lanes begins at 12:30 p.m. Hosting this year’s fraternal competition will be Assembly 153 of Parma, Oh. All Group 5 mem-bers are welcome to participate in this annual sporting event. Entry forms and maps will be forwarded to all Assemblies and Wreaths belonging to Group 5. Tournament costs include: an $8.00 bowling fee, and $8.00 entry feel as well as a $12.00 banquet fee for

a total of $27.00 for each bowler. The traditional victory dinner will be held at the bowling site. An en-joyable afternoon of Sokol good sportsmanship and fellowship has been planned and we hope to see many new faces among us. All entry forms and payment need to be sent to: Martin Zemanek, 6327 Debra Drive, Lorain, Oh. 44053 by the deadline date of March 21. If there are any further questions regarding this year’s competition, feel free to call me at tel. (440)233-6021. Martin Zemanek Group 5 Sports Director

Group 5 Bowling set for Sunday, April 3rd

MARCH 14 Kristin Quigley, Dallas, Pa., a

member of Assembly 59, Wilkes-

Barre, Pa.

MARCH 15 Carol Bombich, Pittsburgh, Pa., a

member of Wreath 22, Pittsburgh, Pa.

Christopher J. Koval, Wilkes-

Barre, Pa., a member of Assembly 59,

Wilkes-Barre, Pa.

David J. Marion, Florida, N.Y., a

member of Assembly 162, Clifton, N.J.

Amanda Maslar, Grosse Ile Mich.,

a member of Assembly 36, Detroit,

Mich.

MARCH 17 Alexandra L. Brincka, Bloom-

fi eld, N.J., a member of Wreath 2,

Passaic, N.J.

John P. DeSantis, Vista, C.a., a

member Assembly 9, Bridgeport,

Conn.

Frank X. Roth, Yonkers, N.Y., a

member of Assembly 219, Yonkers,

N.Y.

MARCH 18 Josephine Bolek, Calumet City,

Ill., president of Wreath 81, Whiting,

Ind.

Patricia Brock, Pittsburgh, Pa., a

member of Wreath 22, Pittsburgh, Pa.

Christine Johnson, Brick, N.J., a

member of Assembly 162, Clifton, N.J.

Lisa L. Derocher, Warren, Mich.,

a member of Assembly 36, Detroit,

Mich.

Joseph A. Orzo, Dallas, Tex., a

member of Assembly 219, Yonkers,

N.Y.

Dr. Ludwig J. Pavlo, Derby,

Conn., a member of Assembly 282,

Passaic, N.J.

MARCH 19 Linda S. Frank, Poland, Oh., a

member of Wreath 54, Youngstown,

Oh.

Michael R. Hennis, Palatine, Ill., a

member of Assembly 11, Chicago, Ill.

Matthew Maslar, Douglas-sville,

Pa., a member of Assembly 261,

Reading, Pa.

Janice Moeller, Pittsburgh, Pa., a

member of Wreath 22, Pittsburgh, Pa.

MARCH 22 Samantha Cipar, Consho-hocken,

Pa., a member of Wreath 155, Read-

ing, Pa.

Mark Matuschak,Esq., Marble-head, Mass., a member of Assembly 25, Perryopolis, Pa. George Siska, Deerfi eld Beach,

Fla., a member of Assembly 11, Chi-

cago, Ill.MARCH 22

Thomas R. Troxil, Canfield,

Oh., a member of Assembly 108,

Youngstown, Oh.

MARCH 23 Joseph Kobulsky, Warwick, Pa.,

a member of Assembly 136, Nanti-

coke, Pa.

Kathleen S. Watkins, Bridgeville,

Pa., Member of the Supreme Physi-

cal Fitness Board and a member of

Wreath 22, Pittsburgh, Pa.

MARCH 24 William J. Barrett, Yonkers, N.Y.,

a member of Assembly 219, Yonkers,

N.Y.

Natalie G. Petro, St. Petersburg,

Fla., a member of Assembly 59,

Wilkes-Barre, Pa.

MARCH 25 Tony J. Bruno, Sinking Spring, Pa.,

a member of Assembly 261, Read-

ing, Pa.

Joseph P. Kostolansky, Jr., Do-

nora, Pa., a member of Assembly 25,

Perryopolis, Pa.

MARCH 26 William English, Jr., Sarasota,

Fla. a member of Assembly 162,

Clifton, N.J.

Anna M. Goberish, Ambridge,

Pa., a member of Assembly 206,

Ambridge, Pa.

Andrew J. “Drew” Pavlica, Has-

brouck Heights, N.J., a member of

Assembly 1, Passaic, N.J.

Gerri Pollock, Ambridge, Pa., a

member of Assembly 206, Ambridge,

Pa.

Kathleen Siska, Chicago, Ill., a

member of Assembly 11, Chicago, Ill.

MARCH 27 Margaret Danowski, Reading,

Pa., a member of Wreath 155, Read-

ing, Pa.

MARCH 28 Jamie Lee Balchus, Wilkes-Barre,

Pa., a member of Assembly 59, Wilkes-

Barre, Pa.

Thomas A. Chuba, Dauphin, Pa.,

a member of Assembly 59, Wilkes-

Barre, Pa.

Elizabeth Grace Hennis, Pala-

tine, Ill., a member of Assembly 11,

Chicago, Ill.

Cyril Iskra, Levitown, Pa., a mem-

ber of Assembly 59, Wilkes-Barre, Pa.

Ronald J. Pulik, Yonkers, N.Y., a

member of Assembly 219, Yonkers,

N.Y.

MARCH 29 Mariann Gurekovich, Whiting,

Ind., a member of Wreath 81, Whit-

ing, Ind.

John Krupa, Shavertown, Pa.,

a member of Assembly 136, Nanti-

coke, Pa.

Theresa M. Olshemski, Wilkes-

Barre, Pa., a member of Assembly 59,

Wilkes-Barre, Pa.

SLOVAK CATHOLIC FALCON, MARCH 9, 2011 PAGE 15

In MemoriamSlovak Catholic Sokol extends sincere sympathy to

the bereaved families of deceased members

January 2011

Assembly/Wreath Member Age Date of DeathAssembly 11 Diane (Hruska) Hardy, Chicago, IL 47 November 18, 2010Assembly 11 Wayne J. Grobarcik, Chicago, IL 61 December 28, 2010Assembly 11 Anthony R. Olik, Chicago, IL 84 December 25, 2010Assembly 11 John Brozenec, Chicago, IL 94 September 22, 2010Assembly 11 Mildred Vlazny, Chicago, IL 92 November 18, 2010Assembly 11 Norbert D. Lach, Chicago, IL 75 December 11, 2010Assembly 25 Joseph M. Philips, Perryopolis, PA 71 December 13, 2010Assembly 28 Elizabeth Minarik, East Douglas, MA 83 December 290, 2010Assembly 36 John Hadidon, Detroit, MI 85 January 6, 2011Assembly 36 Irene Wettlaufer, Detroit, MI 81 December 21, 2010Assembly 36 Frank Kapral, Detroit, MI 84 December 15, 2010Assembly 59 Edward W. Drevitch, Wilkes-Barre, PA 31 December 17, 2010Assembly 59 Lawrence Omasta, Wilkes-Barre, PA 88 December 17, 2010Assembly 64 Mary E. Galla, Erie, PA 91 December 25, 2010Assembly 78 Veronica Murray, Bethlehem, PA 91 January 1, 2011Assembly 78 Bemadette Shive, Bethlehem, PA 83 January 13, 2011Assembly 78 Richard Baka, Bethlehem, PA 71 January 18, 2011Assembly 108 Robert D. Patrick, Youngstown, OH 69 January 14, 2011Assembly 108 Frank Basista, Youngstown, OH 89 December 16, 2010Assembly 116 John Centrich, Greensboro, PA 88 January 3, 2011Assembly 127 John E. Kotch, Monessen, PA 83 December 31, 2010Assembly 162 John Richard Novak, Clifton, NJ 53 December 21, 2010Assembly 163 Alexander Mares, Donora, PA 93 January 8, 2011Assembly 167 David Leo Pudis, Barberton, OH 61 February 14, 2010Assembly 167 Barbara M. Pramuka, Barberton, OH 80 December 27, 2010Assembly 186 Joseph John Gabay, Drexel Hill, PA 80 January 10, 2011Assembly 206 Edward Chizmar, Ambridge, PA 78 November 16, 2010Assembly 206 Bernard Worden, Ambridge, PA 56 November 11, 2010Assembly 206 Joseph W. Fotta, Ambridge, PA 90 December 29, 2010Assembly 227 Andrew Dugas, Toronto, CN 42 Novmeber 29, 2010Assembly 257 Robert A. Farar, Chicago, IL 76 December 30, 2010Assembly 261 Michael A. O’Pake, Reading, PA 70 December 27, 2010Assembly 282 Mike Bucko, Passaic, NJ 89 December 11, 2010Wreath 6 Katherine Venezia, Boonton, NJ 86 October 9, 2010Wreath 11 Ethel Gaydusek, Johnstown, NY 92 January 16, 2011Wreath 15 Rose Zella Lonce, Perryopolis, PA 82 December 23, 2010Wreath 15 Kaly D. Bilski, Perryopolis, PA 19 December 8, 2010Wreath 39 Margaret V. Sullivan, Bridgeport, CT 93 Wreath 43 Katarina M. Kovalcik, Akron, OH 101 December 19, 2010Wreath 54 Agatha R. Potkanowicz, Youngstown, OH 80 September 20, 2010Wreath 81 Mary Buksar, Whiting, IN 89 December 26, 2010Wreath 81 Martha Shimala, Whiting, IN 85 January, 2011Wreath 81 Mary Babusiak, Whiting, IN 89 January 4, 2011Wreath 86 Kathleen Nancy Amoroso, Torrington, CT 60 November 15, 2010Wreath 153 Margaret Tomcik, Parma,OH 96 May 20, 2010Wreath 155 Frances A. Hracho, Reading, PA 70 December 29, 2010

Obituaries...

The Rev. Monsignor Edward M. Matash, pastor-emeritus of St. Joseph’s Parish in Bayonne, N.J. passed away peacefully on February 15 at Hack-ensack University Medical Center in Hackensack, N.J. He was 80. A native of Passaic, N.J., he was

born there October 28, 1930, son of the late Joseph and Elizabeth Kohut Matash. He was baptized on Novem-ber 3, 1930 at St. Mary’s Assumption Church in Passaic where he raised and received most of his sacraments. He was a 1944 graduate of the par-ish school. In 1948, he was graduated from the former Pope Pius XII High School in Passaic. In the fall of 1948, he entered Seton Hall University in South Orange, N.J. to study for the priesthood. He continued his theologi-cal studies at the former Immaculate Conception Seminary in Darlington, N.J. He was ordained a priest on May 26, 1956 by Archbishop Thomas A. Boland at the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart in Newark. On May 27, 1956, he celebrated his fi rst Mass at St. Mary’s Assumption Church in Passaic. His fi rst priestly assignment was as an associate at St. John Nepomu-cene Parish in Guttenberg, N.J. He remained at the Guttenberg parish un-til June 1966 when he was appointed an associate at St. Joseph’s Parish in Bayonne. While in Bayonne, Msgr. Matash was awarded a master of divin-ity degree from the School of Theol-ogy at Immaculate Conception Semi-nary in June 1982. He was appointed as chaplain to the Msgr. A.L. Adzima Memorial Post No. 621 of the Catho-lic War Veterans and Ladies Auxiliary. He also served as the Hudson County representative of the New Jersey State Department of Catholic War Veterans and the national chaplain of the na-tional group. Because of his profi ciency in Slo-vak, in 1985, Msgr. Matash was ap-pointed to his fi rst pastorate at Holy Family Parish in Linden, N.J. With an infl ux of Slovak immigrants, Msgr. Matash celebrated the liturgy in Slovak on a weekly basis. In 1987, he became the national president of the Slovak Catholic Federation, the representative body representing American Catholics

of Slovak ancestry. On November 18, 1990, Pope John Paul II named Father Matash a Prelate of Honor with the title of Reverend Monsignor. Cardinal The-odore E. McCarrick, then Archbishop of Newark, invested him in the robes of an Honorary Prelate at Holy Family Church on December 5, 1990. Msgr. Matash remained at the Lin-den parish until his appointment on February 16, 1991 as pastor of St. Joseph’s in Bayonne, the oldest Slo-vak parish in the state of New Jersey. During his pastorate in Bayonne, he served as friar for the Knights of Columbus Star of the Sea Assembly No. 675, 4th Degree; and as chaplain to Alhambra E1 Jarrow Caravan No. 154. He celebrated his 50th anniver-sary of priestly ordination on June 11, 2006 at St. Joseph’s where he celebrated a Mass of thanksgiving and was later honored at a testimo-nial dinner. He retired as pastor of St. Joseph’s in 2007 and then lived in retirement at the St. John Vianney Residence in Rutherford, N.J. Dur-ing his retirement years, he assisted at St. Francis de Sales parish in Lodi. Very much a people-oriented priest, Msgr. Matash celebrated his Slovak heritage and culture to the delight of others. He fi rst cultivated a love for the Slovak language and traditions at home and at his home parish. He was an active fraternalist and participated in many conven-tions and celebrations. He was a member of our organization’s old-est lodge, Assembly 1 in Passaic. In addition, he enjoyed membership in the First Catholic Slovak Union and the National Slovak Society. He was among the founders of the annual New Jersey Slovak Heritage Festival and took a keen interest in the ac-tivities of the New York-New Jersey metropolitan area Slovak community. He served as the national vice president of the Slovak Catholic Federation and following the resignation of Bishop Joseph V. Adamec in December 1987, he assumed the offi ce of president. He served for six years in this position. He actively participated in seminars held for American priests of Slovak ancestry held at the Pontifi cal Slovak College of SS. Cyril and Methodius in Rome. He was a strong supporter of the work of the Slovak College. He en-joyed travel and participated in many Slovak Catholic Federation pilgrim-ages to Rome and Slovakia. In addition to his parents, Msgr. Matash was preceded in death by a brother, Albert Matash. Surviving are several aunts and many cousins. Fu-neral arrangements were made by the George J. Koch Funeral Home in Bay-onne. The Most Reverend John J. Myers, the Archbishop of Newark, was prin-cipal celebrant of the funeral liturgy at St. Joseph’s Church in Bayonne on February 22. Interment followed at St.

Was our Sokol of Assembly 1

Monsignor Edward A. Matash, well-known religious leader, laid to rest at age 80

Monsignor Edward M. Matash1930 - 2011, R.I.P.

Mary’s Cemetery in Saddle Brook, N.J. Monsignor Matash was a dedicated, unassuming and very holy priest. He was a kind and gentle minister of the Gospel whose warm and enduring per-sonality endeared him to generations of those with whom he came in contact. He always and everywhere was very supportive of the work of our Slovak organizations and institutions and was a credit to our Cyrilo-Methodian heri-tage of faith He will be sorely missed. May his priestly soul enjoy the beatifi c vision. May he rest in peace.

Mary P. Yursco, 86 was amember in Monessen, Pa. Mary Patricia Yursco, 86, of Mon-essen, Pa. passed away peacefully on December 25, 2010 in Jefferson Re-gional Medical Center. A native of Monessen, she was born there June 24, 1924, daughter of the late Andrew and Anna Smertka Se-dory. She was a former employee of Corning Glass in Charleroi. She was a member of Epiphany of Our Lord Parish and a member of the Christian Mothers at the former Holy Name of Jesus Slovak parish. She was a long-

time member of Sokol, Assembly 127. Besides her parents, she was pre-ceded in death by her husband, George Yursco; three brothers, Edward, Joseph and Vincent Sedory; and one sister, Sister Mary Rosaire of the Vincentian Sisters of Charity. She is survived by a daughter and son-in-law, Georgene and Thomas Whipkey of Perryopolis, Pa.; two grandchildren, Lauren Marie and Thomas Whipkey, II, both of Per-ryopolis; and one brother, Andrew Se-dory of Monessen. Family, friends and fellow fraternal-ists paid their fi nal respects to Sister Yursco at the Robert A. Billick Funeral Home. A blessing service took place on December 30 at 9:30 a.m. prior to the Mass of Christian burial which was celebrated in Epiphany of Our Lord Church. Interment followed in Holy Name of Jesus Slovak Cemetery. May our sister fraternalist rest in peace.

Sister M. Rosaire Sedory,was dedicated religious Sister M. Rosaire Sedory, 84, a member of the Vincentian Sisters of Charity passed away on Jan. 31, 2007 at the Motherhouse Infi rmary in Pitts-burgh. Sister Rosaire was in the 67th

year of her religious life. The Mon-essen, Pa. native, she was born there February 8, 1922 daughter of the late Andrew and Anna Smertka Sedory. She was a longtime member of As-sembly 127 of the Slovak Catholic Sokol. Sister entered the Vincentian Sisters of Charity from the former Holy Name of Jesus Slovak parish in Monessen. Sister received her under-graduate degree in elementary educa-tion at Duquesne University and was awarded a master of science degree in administration from Dayton Universi-ty. She taught in elementary schools for 29 years in the Dioceses of Pittsburgh and Greensburg. Upon her return to the Motherhouse in 1997, she served at the Vincentian Child Care Center for three years prior to her illness. A Mass of Christian burial was cele-brated in the chapel of the Motherhouse of the Vincentian Sisters of Charity in Pittsburgh. Interment followed in the Sisters’ cemetery on the Motherhouse grounds. Sister Rosaire hailed from an active Monessen Sokol family. Mary Sister Rosaire, who so beautifully mir-rored our Cyrilo-Methodian heritage of faith, enjoy the beatifi c vision. May she rest in peace.

PAGE 16 SLOVAK CATHOLIC FALCON, MARCH 9, 2011

(Continued from page 1)

First Name Last Name Group 2010 Total Grand Total

Chris Romine 4 3252 3256Marie Ann Mager 5 2750 2755Jerry Lutz 14 2695 2709Bob Roepke 1 2267.37 2268.37Lisa Hoeck 4 2164 2168Joe Zelina 5 2150 2155Melissa Golini 5 2100 2105Michelle Mager 5 2091 2096John Benyak 6 2050.4 2056.4Tricia Radtke 4 2004 2008Jane Krause 1 1984.6 1985.6Michael Zelina 5 1950 1955Kevin Zelina 5 1795 1800John Zelina 5 1750 1755Terry Zelina 5 1750 1755David Olinzock 6 1603 1609Michelle Hiatt 5 1575 1580Jennifer Romine 4 1520 1524Paula Swoboda 4 1511.75 1515.75Kristy Peterson 4 1419 1423Glenice Zelina 5 1405 1410Ray Krafcik, Jr. 5 1345 1350Katherine Zelina 5 1250 1255Suzanne Zeman 4 1249 1253Nathan Swift 14 1247 1261Sandy Wilhelm 5 1230 1235

2011 Slovak Catholic SokolWaking Program

Although I have had some chal-lenges in 2010, I know that many of our walkers have also had them as well. Some of us have lost fam-ily members, have moved or have had medical problems. I thank all of you for including me in your changes - good or bad. I like to think of the walking program as a small family that is there for each other. I am very sad to report that my good friend and top walker for many years has been forced into taking a break. Jerry Lutz of Pitts-burgh, Pa. has been among our top walkers since the program was in-augurated. For a number of years, he was among our top walkers. I like to think his high numbers kept everyone striving for great achieve-ments for themselves as well. Due to a medical program, Brother Lutz will have to take a break. Hope-fully, his hiatus will be brief. Please keep his intentions in your prayers. I was likewise saddened to learn of the passing of Amelia Sankov-ich of Uniontown, Pa. When her son, Brother Tom Sankovich had informed me of his mother’s death, a long-time member of our walk-ing program, I was very sad. In ad-dition, many of our walkers have informed me of some knee injuries suffered during the past year. To all, I say stay positive friends, keep up with your physical therapy and be-fore you know it, your miles will be up again. Now onto our 2010 Sokol Walk-ers Program results. The fi nal miles I have received all look great. I see everyone has worked very hard. In 2010, we had a number of walkers advance in their mileage. Way to go!

Top Walker Our top Sokol walker in 2010 is an individual somewhat new to the program. His motivation and positive energy of stepping up to top walker is outstanding! Our top walker for 2010 is Christopher Romine of Franklin, Wisconsin.

Brother Chris walked an amazing 3,252 miles! Brother Chris is our Sokol of Wreath 93 in Milwaukee, Wis. along with his whole family are active in the Slovak Catholic Sokol. His lovely wife, Jennifer serves as the Physical Directress of Group 4. This year, their chil-dren joined the waking program as well. Making fi tness a part of family activities is a great way to keep every member of the family fi t. Again, our congratulations to Brother Chris, our top walker. Way to go Chris!

2,000 Mile Level I am pleased to announce that a total of nine of our walkers have achieved the 2,000 mile walking level in 2010. Each of these indi-viduals work hard to achieve this impressive goal. Each of them in-cludes walking in their daily rou-tine. Whether the walking is on the treadmill, or at the mall, on a tract, on the golf course or right in their own neighborhood, each of them makes an effort to walk greater dis-tances. Our congratulations go out to the following: Marie Ann Mager, Group 5; Jerry Lutz, Group 14; Bob Roepke, Group 1; Lisa Hoeck, Group 4; Joseph Zelina, Group 5; Melissa Golini, Group 5; Michelle Mager, Group 5; John R. Benyak, Group 6; and Tricia Radtke, Group 4.

1,000 Mile Level A total of 20 Sokol walkers walked between 1,000 and 2,000 miles in 2010. The following achieved this level: Jane Krause, Group 1; Michael Zelina, Group 5; Kevin Zelina, Group 5; John Zelina, Group 5; Terry Zelina, Group 5; David Olenzock, Group 6; Michelle Hiatt, Group 5; Jennifer Romine, Group 4; Paula Swoboda, Group 4; Kristy Peterson, Group 4; Glenice Zelina, Group 5; Ray Kraf-cik, Jr., Group 5; Katherine Zelina, Group 5; Suzanne Zeman, Group 4; Nathan Swift, Group 14; Sandy Wilhelm, Group 5; Regina Davies, Group 5; Matthew Zelina, Group 5;

Larry Sevcik, Group 8; and Sister Linda Sevcik, S.M., Group 8.

Milestones Since the inception of our walk-ing program, several of our walk-ers have been in the program since the very beginning. These walkers have achieved some major mile-stones. The following are some of the grand totals amassed by some of our charter member walkers: 10,000+ miles: Melissa Golini and Sue Naelitz; 15,000+ miles: Terry Zelina; 20,000+ miles: Joseph Zeli-na; and 30,000 miles or more: John R. Benyak and Jerry Lutz. Congrat-ulations go out to all of them!

A warm Welcome! I am pleased to welcome fi ve new walkers among us. The follow-ing have joined our Sokol Walking Program in 2010: Kristy Peterson, Noah Romine, Annika Romine and Bonnie Cybela, all of Group 4 and Maddie Werneke of Group 1. A warm fraternal welcome to all!

A sincere thank you goes out to Glenice Zelina, president of Wreath 111 in Lorain, Oh. who coordinates our walkers from Group 5. Her ef-forts are a tremendous help to me. I would also like to thank our edi-tor as well as Louie Smeriglio for always posting my articles and re-sults on the internet and in the Fal-con in a timely manner. I also want to thank Member of the Supreme Physical Fitness Board Kathy Wat-kins for helping me with the Christ-mas mailings along with the prize mailings this year. Thank you also to my mom, Ann Jozwiak who has collected all the results and mailed them to Lima so that I was always able to stay on top of the results and stay connected.

Prizes Everyone who qualifi es will be receiving their prizes by mid-March. Since we are stationed in Peru, my good friend and fellow Member of the Supreme Physical

Join us in 2011 and walk to better healthIn 2010, our Sokol Walkers trekked a total of 89,815.81 miles promotingour ageless Sokol slogan of “A Sound Mind in a Sound Body!”

Fitness Board Kathy Watkins has volunteered to assist me with the mailings. I am not sure she fully understands the huge job she took on but I am sure I will owe her one! During 2011, I will be changing the way we give out prizes. Most of our walkers are hitting over 6,000 miles and we need to adjust and add to the prizes slightly. Ev-eryone has done a great job. Keep up the good work. I look forward to receiving miles and hearing from everyone. Finally, may I extend an invita-tion to those members who have not as yet joined our program to con-sider becoming a part of the walk-ing program in 2011. It’s a wonder-ful way to stay fi t and promote our organization’s ageless slogan of “A sound mind in a sound body.” Just clip out the walking box found on this page and start walking to good health. Have a great year and Zdar Boh!

(Continued on page 17)

SLOVAK CATHOLIC FALCON, MARCH 9, 2011 PAGE 17

(Continued from page 1)

First Name Last Name Group 2010 Total Grand TotalRegina Davies 5 1225 1230Matthew Zelina 5 1220 1225Larry Sevcik 8 1129.6 1137.6Linda Sevcik, SM 8 1096.6 1104.6Margaret Zelina 5 989 994John Hmelnicky 7 979.5 986.5Marty Zemanek 5 973 978Victor Skvarla 12 961 973Sophia Richnavsky 17 956.5 973.5Joseph Richnavsky 17 956.5 973.5Robert Knotek 5 932 937Monica Heap 13 925.74 938.74Nancy Sankovich 6 910 916Pat Kelly 2 875 877Jeanne Bombara 3 857 860Marge Kurta 5 857 862Sandra Mager 5 850 855James Sankovich 6 838.5 844.5Jo Parry Cazin 1 817.5 818.5Anastasia Krafcik 5 790 795Kathleen Trifi letti 5 790 795Sue Naelitz 5 760 765Michelle Minnick 5 750 755Chris Nedelman 5 715 720Melissa Deenan 5 695 700Doleres Ganobcsik 5 694 699James Genosky 11 679 690Nancy Maskara 1 678 679Lynn Lowry 5 675 680Delvyn Nocjar 5 675 680Jim Krasky 11 662.1 673.1Delores Genosky 11 662 673Ray Krafcik 5 650 655Christopher Zemanek 5 628 633Noah Romine 4 627 631Steve Gaydosh 5 622 627Judy Hromada 5 610 615Anna Zuffa 5 595 600Anna Gaydosh 5 590 595Eleanor Krkoska 12 587 599Ilona Ferris 14 547 561Alex Krafcik 5 525 530Nicole Simulcik 5 525 530Jennifer Zemanek 5 500 505Joann Antosy 12 466 478Anthony Macurak 14 437.75 451.75John Milanek 12 432 444Annika Romine 4 426 430Mary Mager 5 405 410Helen Zemanek 5 405 410Christopher Antosy 12 397 409Marlene Cooper 19 391 410Tina Hellinger 5 360 365Helen Virant 5 350 355Barbara Petro 10 333.5 343.5Aaron Krafcik 5 305 310Valerie Konecny 5 295 300Dolly Yonkoski 9 272 281Elizabeth Antosy 12 243 255Anne Pogorelec 1 240 241Steven Pogorelec 1 234 235Bonnie Cybela 4 193 197Chris Antosy JR. 12 190 202Martha Parry 1 169 170Denise Noga 5 162.5 167.5Don Firca 5 150 155Tara Reed 12 133 145Pam Johnson 3 50.4 53.4Dennis Cybela 4 34 38Maddie Werneke 1 31 32Joann Krisak 1 12 13Larry Ganobcsik 5 10 15Cliff Ainsworth 1 0 1David Kostolansky 6 0 6Dolly Lutz 14 0 14Edward Machuga 5 0 5Susan Moynihan 5 0 5Richard Rakovan 5 0 5Catherine Smetanka 16 0 16Steve Tusan 10 0 10Pat Underation 5 0 5Joe Underation 5 0 5Tom Viencek 6 0 6Louis Viencek 6 0 6

Sokol Walkers trekked a total of 89,815.81 miles(Continued from page 16)

banquet is $25.00. Thus the total cost per bowler for the competition and the banquet is $73.00. This year, our Saturday evening banquet will be held at the excit-ing Sovereign Center & Sovereign Performing Arts Center in Reading, which is located just minutes from the hotel. We hope that everyone will attend this special event, complete with an awards ceremony, great food, drinks and music. The cost for this event will be $25.00 per person. The price includes all taxes, gratuities, a wonderful meal and a few drinks to complete the evening. Needless to say, an enjoyable time is assured. Hosting this year’s bowling tourna-ment will be our brother and sister Sokol members from Group 12. Thus, all is in readiness for this year’s event. If anyone has any questions or concerns in the short term, feel free to contact me at my

home telephone number (412)881-3506 or email me at moellerref@aol.com. I look forward to seeing you in Pittsburgh for an exciting competition in the best traditions of Sokol good sportsmanship and fel-lowship. Zdar Boh!

65th International Bowling Tournament

CHANGE OF AD DRESS OR REQUESTFOR SLOVAK CATH O LIC FALCON

P.O.BOX 899 • 205 MADISON STREETPASSAIC, N.J. 07055

NEW CHANGE CAN CEL LA TION

Certifi cate No._____________________________________

Name____________________________________________

New Ad dress_____________________________________

City_________________State____________ Zip_________

Old Ad dress_____________________________________

City__________________State____________Zip_________

(Editor’s note: We have noticed a number of returned copies of our Falcon due to incorrect ad dress es of our members. We ask that when individuals move, that they com plete the form below for a change of address or call the home offi ce. We thank you for your continued co op er a tion)

The highest governing body

of our organization

The 31st Quadrennial Convention ofthe Slovak Catholic Sokol Dates: July 30 - August 3, 2011

Where: Radisson Hotel Pittsburgh Green Tree 101 Radisson Drive

Pittsburgh, PennsylvaniaMark your calendars and plan to participate. Plan to

become a delegate by regularly attending your local Assembly or Wreath meetings.

Lenten Fish’n Chipsdinner in Clifton, N.J. The Marian Rosary Society of SS. Cyril and Methodius Parish in Clifton, N.J. will host their tradi-tional Lenten Fish’n Chips dinner with all the trimmings on Wednes-day, March 23 in the church hall located at 218 Ackerman Avenue beginning at 5:30 p.m. Tickets are $15.00 per person and takeout orders are avail-able. For reservations call Dot at (973)772-3448 or Val at (973)72-8806. Tickets are also available following the weekend liturgies in the church vestibule.

PAGE 18 SLOVAK CATHOLIC FALCON, MARCH 9, 2011

Report of the Supreme Secretary for the Month of December, 2010REPORT OF THE SUPREME SECRETARY

SLOVAK CATHOLIC SOKOLActivity for the Month of December, 2010

ASSETS

YEAR-TO-DATECash - Senior Account $ 64,944.88Cash - Bank of Montreal 28,417.31Cash - Payroll Account 40,000.00Petty Cash 20.00Investments - Bonds & Bills 42,276,967.57Investments - Stocks 7,039,229.33 Capital Reserve 493,902.89 Stock Adj. to Book Value 1,485,211.41First Mortgage Loans 845,843.25 Loans on Certifi cates 211,371.83 Accrued Interest Receivable 610,090.00 Prepaid Expense 13,465.81 Sokol Building 2,669,876.49 Land 204,108.00 Furniture & Fixtures 154,704.54 Sokol Baby Spoons 10,075.00 Due From Groups 2,707.82 Accounts Receivable 21,970.46Non Admitted Assets -30,007.00 TOTAL ASSETS $ 56,142,899.59

LIABILITIES AND RESERVES Life Reserves $ 36,865,014.00Reserve Dep. Furn. & Fixtures 148,238.34Reserve Dep. Sokol Building 2,614,998.48Asset Valuation Reserve 1,297,143.00Interest Maintenance Reserve 94,013.00 Reserve for Supplemental Contracts 241,246.00 Reserve Emp. Retirement Plan 4,429,754.00Reserve for Convention 405,304.38Matured Endowments 94,362.12Annuity Payable 75,030.00Claims Payable 227,253.88Conversion - Canadian Currency 0.00Accounts Payable 137,605.19Mary Jane Rich Scholarship Fund 85,000.00Joseph & Mary Spernoga Scholarship Fund 10,000.00Emil Slavik Scholarship Fund 100,000.00Dr’s Lesko Medical Scholarship Fund 20,000.00Dividend Accum. At Interest 327,131.71Dividend Payable 75,000.00Advance Premiums 12,524.00Premium Load 4,276.00 TOTAL LIABILITIES $ 47,263,894.10 Undistributed Funds - Sokol 8,879,005.49 TOTAL LIABILITIES & SURPLUS $ 56,142,899.59

STATEMENT OF INCOME AND EXPENSESMonth of December, 2010

INCOME

YEAR TO DATE

Interest on Bonds and Bills $ 2,277,382.66 Amortization of IMR 29,085.00 Other Investment Income 3,383.80 Dividends on Stocks 151,847.90 Interest on Mortgages 43,603.09 Interest on Certifi cate Loans 12,777.51 Interest -Bank of Montreal 1.14 Sale of Cookbooks 724.50Rent Received - Sokol Building 106,028.00 Premium Income 498,956.80 Annuities 551,934.80 Miscellaneous Income 23,662.35 Publication Administration Fee 1,090.86 Scholarship Income 6,787.50 Gain on Securities Sold/Matured 672,394.06Amortization of Discounts/Premiums -58,389.00 Total Income $ 4,321,270.97

STATEMENT OF INCOME AND EXPENSESMonth of December, 2010

EXPENSES YEAR TO DATEOperating Expense - Sokol Building $ 60,482.20Building Maintenance & Repairs 11,512.07 Rental Area Expenses 5,061.78 Property Taxes - Sokol Building 111,359.60 Depreciation Sokol Building 3,920.00 Depreciation Furniture & Fixtures 658.00 Rent for Space 15,000.00 Pension Plan - Print 11,568.72 Salaries - Offi ce Employees 522,564.50 Salaries - Editorial Employees 81,413.00 SS & Federal Income Tax - Offi ce 50,832.92 Hospitalization 143,939.58 Workmen’s Compensation Insurance 4,049.00 Pension Plan - Offi ce/Offi cers 269,851.08 Offi ce Expense 28,344.52 Supreme President-Offi ce Supplies 880.00 Supreme Offi cers Travel 16,061.03 Supreme Auditors 7,500.63 Actuarial Expenses 85,211.00 Accountant Expenses 37,645.22State Examiners 21,808.46 Postage - Offi ce 21,038.80 Telephone - Offi ce 3,560.72Telephone - Editorial 1,455.87 Printing - Katolicky Sokol 52,791.00Photography - Sokol Paper 259.39 Postage - Sokol Paper 87,750.00 Misc. Publication Expense 3,174.71 Other Printing 3,607.52 Annual Activity Review Book 31,200.00 Legal Expenses 2,547.00Other Legal Expenses 45,376.64 Death Benefi t Claims Paid 856,679.56 Cash Surrender Values Paid 203,724.54 Annuity Surrenders 136,414.31 Matured Endowments Paid 61,199.00 Reserve Increase 828,679.00 Payments-Supplemental Contracts -45,529.00 State Insurance Dept. Lic./Fee 4,015.87 Dividends & Expenses 75,000.00 Bank Charges - Bond Account 119,024.77 Supreme Offi cers Uniform Allowance 96.06 Dues & Subscription 7,858.22 Donations & Contributions 8,715.00 Clinic 27,465.55 National Bowling Tournament 9,496.79National Golf Tournament 5,747.70 National Basketball Tournament 4,252.72 District Tournaments 4,200.00 Other Coaching, Insurance 5,199.13 National Softball Tournament 8,806.80 Convention Expenses 135,000.00 Group Assessments Paid 49,576.55 Commission Expense 17,970.43 Annuity Commissions 11,028.70 Advertising - Promotional 17,515.06 Marketing Expense 8,806.71 Agency Expenses 19,087.19 Annual Meeting Expense 13,651.13 Board of Directors Expense 19,628.19 Physical Fitness Board Expense 2,533.18Scholarship Expense 50,072.50 Salaries - Supreme Offi cers 100,185.00 Seminarian Grants 500.00 Supreme Offi cers Bond 1,320.00 Fraternal Congress Expense 25,550.95 Rebates & Premium Adjustments 1,039.10 Interest Expense 12,510.38Load Expense 0.00 TOTAL EXPENSES $ 4,549,446.05 TOTAL INCOME (LOSS) $ -228,175.08

ZDAR BOH!

Steven M. Pogorelec, FIC Supreme Secretary Slovak Catholic Sokol

SLOVENSKÝ KATOLÍCKY SOKOL, 9. MARCA 2011 PAGE 19

ISSN: 0897-8107

Úradn¥ ™asopisSLOVENSKÉHO KATOLÍCKEHO SOKOLA

Zalo¢en¥ 15. apríla 1911 – Vychádza ka¢dú druhú stredu

Majitel« a vydavatel«:SLOVAK CATHOLIC SOKOL

Daniel F. Tanzone, redaktor Telefónne ™íslo: (973) 777-4010

V£etky ™lánky, príspevky a správy treba posielat« na adresu:Editor, Slovak Catholic Sokol, P.O. Box 899

205 Madison Street, Passaic, New Jersey 07055

spoločenské podujatia

Banket Spolku Sesterské mestá Kent-Dudince Spolok Sesterské mestá Kent-Dudince usporiadajú banket spo-jený s kultúrnym programom v nedeľu 22. mája v Kent Elks Club Hall na Elks Lane - State Route 59. Začiatok bude o 1.00 hodine. O 2.00 hodine bude obed a kultúrny program začne o 3.00 hod. Prestavia sa folklórne skupiny Pittsburghskí Slováci, spevácky súbor Slovenské mamičky a detský súbor Lučinka z Clevelandu, OH. Do tanca bude hrať Johnny Pastirik Band. Vstupné je $15.00 za osobu. Záujemcovia si majú urobiť rezervácie do 6. mája. Šeky majú byť vystavené na Kent-Dudince Sis-ter City Association a odoslané na adresu 1544 Vine St., Kent, OH 44240. Bližšie informácie: Rudy Bachna, tel. č. 330-763-3255.

(Pokračovanie zo str. 20)Oslava sv. Jozefa v New Yorku

182. zbor S.K.S. usporiada oslavu svojho patróna sv. Jozefa v nedeľu 20. marca. O 11.00 hodine bude v kostole sv. Jána Nepo-muckého slovenská svätá omša. Po omši bude v kostolnej hale na 406 East 67th Sreet nasledovať obed a fraternalistický program. Po obede bude nasledovať ročná schôdza spolku.

Policajt zastaví auto na ceste a hovorí:Čo by ste spravili keby ste dostali 10 000 korún?Šofér: Asi by som si urobil vodi-čák.A zrazu manželka zo sedadla spolujazdca:Ale pán policajt, neverte tomu, to on vždy hovorí blbosti keď je opitý...A potom sa ozve babka zo zadu:Ja som vám vravela, že s krad-nutým autom ďaleko nezájdeme...a z kufra sa ozve:Už sme za hranicami?

-Trestám vás, vojak Karanduľa za to, že ste v noci opitý dotlačili do kasárni fúrik. Máte niečo na svoju obhajobu?- Mám, v tom fúriku ste boli vy, pán poručík.

Koncert v Clift one, NJ V piatok 29. apríla bude mať v kostolnej hale koncert speváčka Lenka Filipová. Začiatok bude o 9.00 hodine večer. Vstupné je $25.00 za lístky kúpené vopred a $30.00 pri vstupe na koncert. Bližšie informácie a lístky na internetovej adrese: www.cskstore.com, alebo na telefónnom čísle: (201) 757-8481.

Módna prehliadka v New Yorku V piatok 13. mája bude Capitale, na 130 Bowery Street v New Yor-ku módna prehliadka - Slovak Fashion Night. Vstupné je $30.00. V cene je zahrnuté občerstvenie. Po skončení módnej prehliadky bude party. O hudbu sa postará DJ Noyze. Vstupenky sú na predaj na internete: info@plus421.org.

Dva nemecké ovčiaky Bingo a Muro, ktoré slovenská armáda vyslala spolu vojakmi do misie ISAF v Afganistane, získavajú so svojím psovodom prvé skúse-nosti pod zahraničným velením. Tieto psy sú špeciálne cvičené na vyhľadávanie výbušnín a do Af-ganistanu išli ako súčasť nového slovenského EOD tímu, ktorý má na starosti práve zneškodňovanie mín, nástražných výbušných sys-témov a nevybuchnutej munície. V súčasnosti však ovčiaky pracujú v prospech Medzi-národnej vojenskej polície v Kandaháre, “kde je ich poten-ciál využívaný v oveľa väčšej miere ako v tíme EOD,” vysvetlil hovorca Ozbrojených síl SR Mi-lan Vanga. Pyrotechnický tím v prípade niektorých špecifi ckých zásahov nemôže využívať psov, preto je ich využitie efektívnejšie v jednotke Medzinárodnej vo-jenskej polície. Podľa Vangu je výhodou tiež to, že náš psovod je vojenský policajt, čo je zárukou úzkej odbornej spolupráce so zahraničnými partnermi. Náš pyrotechnický tím, kto-rí má štyroch členov, zatiaľ cvičí s americkými jednotkami priamo v teréne, aby dosiahol maximálnu úroveň súčinnosti

so zahraničnými kolegami. “Priame samostatné nasadenie slovenského tímu EOD bude reálne až po absolvovaní tohto špeciálneho výcviku,” dodal Vanga. Naši špičkoví pyrotech-nici majú po prvý raz v tejto misii oprávnenie odmínovať aj mimo základne. Slovenskí vojaci pôsobia v operácii ISAF na základniach v Kábule, Kandaháre a Tarin Kowte. Okrem tímu EOD sú to príslušníci strážnych jednotiek, ktorí sa starajú o bezpečnosť pri vchodoch do základní, príslušníci operačných výcvikových a styčných tí-mov, ktorí cvičia Afganskú národnú armádu a príslušníci Provinčného rekonštrukčného tímu zabezpečujúci realizáciu projektov pomoci a obnovy Afganistanu. Tradičnou úlo-hou slovenského kontingentu je odmínovanie a ženijné a stavebné práce, ktorých plne-nie zabezpečuje multifunkčná ženijná rota. Slovensko má zastúpenie aj vo veliteľstvách operácie NATO v Kábule a Kan-daháre. V súčasnosti je v Afgani-stane 314 slovenských vojakov, v operácii sa striedajú v pol-ročných intervaloch. -TASR

Slovenské psy slúžia u medzinárodnej polície v Kandaháre

So stavebnými prácami by mali začať už tento rok a otvoriť ho plánujú v roku 2013. Jeho názov by mal byť Zlatý vek a má byť zameraný na slovenské dejiny zo stredoveku.

Na základe programu revitali-zácie železničných spoločností by z troch štátnych spoločností, ktoré spolu zamestnávajú približ-ne 31-tisíc pracovníkov, malo odísť do začiatku roku 2014 okolo 5 000 ľudí. Železničná spoločnosť Cargo Slovakia má uvoľniť 1 800 zamestnancov, Železničná spoločnosť Slovensko 621 ľudí a Železnice Slovenskej republiky 2 700 zamestnancov.

Vo Vysokých Tatrách zahynu-la 6. marca 23-ročná poľská lyžiarka, ktorá spadla mimo zjaz-dovky medzi konáre a kamene, pričom utrpela početné vnútorné poranenia. Horská záchranná služba poskytla zranenej prvú pomoc, ale pre zlé poveternost-né podmienky nebolo možné ihned’ ju previezť vrtuľníkom do nemocnice. Po príchode do nemocnice ťažkým poraneniam podľahla.

Správy zo Slovenska

Pred pôrodnicou zahvízdajú brz-dy. Z auta vybehne udychčaný muž k zadným dverám, otvorí ich, zhrozene pozrie dovnútra a zúfalo vykríkne: “Preboha! A Marku som zabudol doma!”

“Moja najdrahšia. Staň sa mo-jou ženou. Nemám síce chatu ako Fero, nevyhral som 300 000 v športke ako Fero, nemám BMW ako Fero, ale nemôžem bez teba existovať.”“Ja ťa mám tiež strašne rada, ale povedz mi, kde býva ten Fero?”

Šepká snúbenec svojej nastáva-júcej:– Drahá, zarábam 50-tisíc ko-rún mesačne. Dokážeš z toho vyžiť?– Ja áno, ale z čoho budeš žiť ty?

KÚTIK HUMORU

Už aj Slnko má svoje veľvysla-nectvo, a to priamo na Slovensku! 3. marca to oznámili na tlačovej konferencii pri príležitosti jeho otvorenia. Predstavili na nej podpisovací slnkostroj, prostred-níctvom ktorého Slnko zanecha-lo po prvý raz v histórii svoj “vlastnolúčny” podpis. Stalo sa tak 28. februára o 10:07 na Lomnickom štíte v nadmorskej výške 2 632 met-rov, kde veľvyslanectvo, ktoré vzniklo s vedomím Ministerstva zahraničných vecí SR, OSN a NASA, sídli. Podpisovací slnkostroj je 3,5 metra vysoký drevený prístroj, ktorý je kombináciou niekoľkých starovekých strojov a slnečnej vrtule skonštruovanej na základe vrtule Leonarda da Vinciho. Prístroj, ktorý skonštruoval Ľuboš Babarík, je poháňaný vet-

rom a gravitáciou, pričom Slnko sa “podpisuje” prostredníctvom kryštálového kondenzátora. Ten sústreďuje slnečné lúče a rez-nou rýchlosťou jeden milimeter za sekundu vypaľuje “podpis”. Slnkostroj bude zatiaľ umiestnený pravdepodobne v Bojniciach. “Veľvyslanectvo Slnka vzniklo, aby sa ľudia na Zemi mohli navzájom obdarovávať slnečnými lúčmi, ktoré prinášajú radosť,” povedal štatutárny zástupca Sun-embassy.com Igor Brossmann. Ako vysvetlil, odteraz môže každý tomu, koho má rád, darovať pri rôznych príležitostiach slnečné lúče, ktoré svietia k nemu domov alebo na iné jeho obľúbené mies-to. Obdarovaný sa tak stane na jeden rok veľvyslancom Slnka pre toto miesto. Každý takto ob-darovaný získa Certifi kát Veľ-vyslanectva Slnka. - SITA

Jediný slnkostroj na planéte je na Lomnickom štíte

Unikátny nález z 9. storočia

Pod podlahou Kostola sv. Ju-raja v Kostoľanoch pod Tribečom objavili archeológovia zvyšky staršieho dreveného kostolíka z 9. storočia. Odbornící však predpokladajú, že v kostole, kto-rý pochádza z prvej polovice je-denásteho storočia, odhalia ešte d’alšie tajomstvá. Pred pol storočím objavili v kostolianskom kostolíku uni-kátne nástenné maľby, najstaršie v strednej Európe. Kostolík má pohnutú históriu, niekoľkorát bol už takmer odsú-dený k zániku, nakoniec ho však vždy opravili a slúžil svojmu účelu. Omše v ňom bývali do vlaňajšej jari. Kostol sv. Juraja je národnou kultúrnou pamiatkou a svojou vzácnosťou nemá v okolí obdobu. Občianske združenie Kosto-lianksy sv. Juraj, cirkev a Minis-terstvo kultúry SR sa ho snažia zachrániť. Reštaurovanie násten-ných malieb, prebiehajúci archeo-logický výskum, oprava exteriéru a strechy a riešenie cirkukácie vzduchu, aby sa nástenné maľby nepoškodzovali, si vyžiadajú veľa peňazí.

ÚRADNÝ ČASOPIS SLOVENSKÉHO KATOLÍCKEHO SOKOLA - 28 000 ČLENOV - HLAVNÁ ÚRADOVŇA: 205 MADISON STREET, PASSAIC, NJ 07055 – www.slovakcatholicsokol.org

VOLUME C PASSAIC, N.J., 9. MARCA 2011 ČÍSLO 4933

Slovensk¥ Katolícky Sokol

Za Boha a Národ For God and Nation

(Pokračovanie na str. 19)

Správy zo SlovenskaMiera nezamestnanosti na Slo-

vensku v januári stúpla na takmer šesťročné maximum 12,98 per-centa. Horšie výsledky krajina za-znamenala naposledy vo februári 2005. V decembri minulého roku bolo bez práce 12,46 per-centa Slovákov. Údaje poskytlo Ústredie práce, sociálnych vecí a rodiny.

Tradične najvyšší podiel ľudí bez práce mal v januári okres Rimavská Sobota - 33,84 percen-ta. Najmenšiu nezamestnanosť vykazuje nad’alej Bratislava.

Na Slovensku opäť hrozia zo-suvy pôdy. Geológovia varujú, že na jar sa bude pôda zosúvať a budú ohrozené obydlia. Po vlaňajších ničivých zosuvoch pôdy v Nižnej Myšli a Kapušanoch na východ-nom Slovensku, sa dali tohto roku do pohybu svahy v Košiciach-Krásnej, v Slivníku, Krupine a pri Považskej Bystrici.

Pohyby svahov na Slovensku podľa odborníkov priamo ohro-zujú viac ako 550 z viac ako 2 891 obcí, ktoré sú postavené v zosu-vových pásmach.

Slováci zažili v úvode roka naj-

Mincovňa Kremnica sa 25. februára stala súčasťou Európ-skeho kultúrneho dedičstva. Zaradila sa tak medzi európske pamiatky, prírodné lokality a sídla, ktoré vytvárali a vytvárajú kľúčovú úlohu pri pochopení európskych dejín a súčasnej kultúry. Pri tejto príležitosti odhalila mincovňa aj pamätnú bustu zakladateľa mincovne kráľa Karola Róberta z Anjou a otvorila nové priestory raziarne medailí. Ako sa uvádza na strán-ke Pamiatkového úradu SR, Kremnická mincovňa je jed-ným z najstarších nepretržite vyrábajúcich výrobných pod-

Mincovňa Kremnica sa stala súčasťou Európskeho kultúrneho dedičstva

nikov nielen v Európe, ale aj na svete. Minciarske výrobky, ktoré patrili a dodnes patria medzi špičku vo svete, sa tu vyrábajú nepretržite takmer sedem storočí. Od roku 1955 je mincovňa chránená ako národná kultúrna pamiatka. K unikátnym hodnotám min-covne patrí aj jej archív, v kto-rom sú zachované dokumenty o činnosti mincovne od roku 1630 , čo je najstarší podnikový archív historickej výrobnej pre-vádzky nielen na Slovensku, ale pravdepodobne aj v strednej Európe. Uhorský kráľ Karol Róbert z Anjou v roku 1328 povýšil Kremnicu z osady, ktorá vy-rástla okolo bohatých nálezísk zlata, na slobodné kráľovské mesto a zároveň jej pridelil privilégium na prevádzkovanie mincovne. Prvými vyrazenými mincami v kremnickej min-covni boli strieborné groše, pravdepodobne v roku 1329. Postupom času sa tu vyrába-li mince pre rôzne menové sústavy. Zo začiatku to boli min-ce zo striebra a zlata, neskôr aj z iných kovov - toliare, dukáty, groše. Obdobie najväčšej slávy kremnickej mincovne spre-vádzalo používanie vretenové-ho raziaceho stroja - balanciéra, ktorý zaviedol v Kremnici tech-nik, rytec a medailér švédskeho

pôvodu Daniel Warou v roku 1710. Na takomto stroji bolo možné raziť mince na tzv. mo-derný spôsob, ktorý sa používa dodnes. Kremnica sa tak stala prvým miestom použitia ba-lanciéra na razbu mincí v st-rednej Európe. Podľa kremnic-kého vzoru začali túto techniku používať aj mincovne vo Viedni a v Prahe. Od roku 1986 sa výroba mincí presunula do nového závodu a v pôvodnej budove zostala produkcia medailí. Do začiatku 90-tych rokov mi-nulého storočia bola mincovňa v Kremnici jediným výrob-com mincového obeživa pre Československo. Od 1. januára 1993 plnila túto úlohu pre Slovenskú republiku. V závere roka 2008 vyrazila kremnická mincovňa aj nové slovenské eu-romince. Zapísaním do zoznamu Eu-rópskeho kultúrneho dedičstva sa kremnická mincovňa zara-dila medzi európske pamiatky, akými sú napríklad Kapitolské námestie v Ríme, katedrála na Wavelskom návrší v Krakove alebo rodný dom iniciátora zjednotenia Európy Roberta Schumana. Zo Slovenska sú súčasťou dedičstva kaplnka ve-novaná svätému Konštantínovi v Kopčanoch, či mohyla Milana Rastislava Štefánika na Bradle.

Pamätná busta zakladateľa min-covne kráľa Karola Róberta z Anjou.

väčší cenový skok zo všetkých o byvateľov Európy. V januári sa tovary a služby podľa Európ-skeho štatistického úradu zaplatili priemerne oproti koncu vlaňajška o 2,1 percenta viac. V celej Európ-skej únii priemerne ceny rástli o 0,4 percenta.

Do Afganistanu odišlo 19 pro-fesionálnych vojakov, ktorí budú plniť úlohy v strážnych jednot-kách v Kandháre a Tarin Kowte a taktiež na veliteľstve ISAF a v provinčných rekonštrukčných tímoch. V operácii ISAF doteraz pôsobilo už 1 570 príslušníkov Ozbrojených síl SR.

Nezamestnanosť v SR zazna-menala v minulom roku vysoký medziročný nártast, a to až o 20 percent na 389.000 ľudí. Tento rast podľa údajov Štatistického úradu SR zasiahol najmä mužov, ktorých na úrade práce pribudlo 42.000. Prírastok počtu nepracu-júcich žien stúpol na 22.700.

Spoločnosť Tatra SPC3 chce ned’aleko Liptovského Mikuláša postaviť jeden z najväčších zábav-ných parkov v strednej Európe.

Počas slovenského plesu, ktorý sa konal 26. februára v New York Athletic Club v New York City, bola poctená za svoju dlhoročnú prácu tajomníčka Slovenskej ligy v Amerike Nina Holá. Na snímke sú (zľava): predsedníčka Slovensko-amerického kultúrneho stredis-ka (S-AKS) Rosemary Harvilová Golia, Nina Holá a podpredseda S-AKS Matúš Čulen. Slovensko-americké kultúrne stredisko uspo-riada slovenský ples v New York City už 19 rokov.