entered as second-class matter, february 7, 1980 at east ... · entered as second-class matter,...

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Entered as Second-Class Matter, February 7, 1980 at East Orange, New Jersey under the act of August 24, 1912, provided in Sec. 1103, Act of October 3, 1918 authorized July 3, 1918

OCTOBER 10, 2013 PUBLICATION FOSTERING FRATERNAL, CULTURAL &

PHYSICAL EDUCATION ACTIVITIES SINCE JULY 14, 1905

Carnival of Fitness Creates Public Awareness By Todd Yatchyshyn

On Saturday, September 21st, the Monessen Sokol Lodge hosted a Carnival of Fitness at Falcon Gymnastics in Monessen, Pa. The event, coordinated by Lodge Director Charity Ruhl, was held from 4-7 p.m. in conjunction with National Gymnastics Day to promote physical fitness through participation in gymnastics. More than 50 children from the community attended the free event with their parents, in addition to all the gymnastics team members of Falcon Gymnastics who assisted in running the festivities. The event featured gymnastics activities, an obstacle course, a soccer skills challenge, relay races,

a fitness challenge, yoga classes, martial arts instruction, tag games, Chinese jump rope and healthy snack making. The Monessen Lodge was selected as one of 26 gyms across the nation to receive a $1,000 grant from USA Gymnastics to run their event. Money from the grant was also used to raffle off gymnastics scholarships for boys and girls from the community who were attending the carnival. While the scholarships were an added incentive, the Carnival of Fitness was a perfect example of an inexpensive marketing tool that can be utilized by all Sokol gyms to increase the public’s awareness of our

mission to promote family fitness and wellness in our communities. The end of the event is a perfect opportunity to hand out fliers describing weekly classes and even insurance options. If you are interested in facilitating a program such as a Carnival of Fitness, please contact Charity Ruhl for more information. Sports, Fitness and Wellness Director Todd Yatchyshyn also participated in the event and can be contacted for support if assistance is needed. Charity Ruhl, [email protected] Todd Yatchyshyn, [email protected], 267-566-2993

(More photographs on 2)

OCTOBER 10, 2013 SOKOL TIMES 10-10-13

official organ of the SLOVAK GYMNASTIC UNION SOKOL

OF THE USA Published monthly on the 2nd Thursday of the month.

SOKOL OFFICE: Telephone: (973) 676-0280 Toll Free: (888) 253-0362

FAX (973) 676-3348 E-mail: [email protected]

All communication for publication should be sent to Editor at P.O. Box 189, East Orange, NJ 07019

by the 22nd of the previous month. Second Class postage paid in East Orange, NJ Annual Subscription for non-members is $10.00

SOKOL USADISTRICT MCT

ANNUAL MEETING

Sunday, October 27 at 1 PM Clarion Hotel

Route 28 North, Exit 14

AGENDA Election of Officers Officers’ Reports

Lodge and District Reports Slet Report

RSVP by October 17th by calling Patricia A. Blistan at 412-322-8865.

We Trust All Lodges Will Be Represented.

Nazdar! Patricia A. Blistan

University of Pittsburgh Pitt Student Slovak Club

And Slovak Studies Program Present the 23rd Annual and Ever-Popular

Slovak Heritage Festival

Sunday, November 3 1-5 PM

University of Pittsburgh (Oakland) Cathedral of Learning Commons Room

FREE ADMISSION

Musical Performances By: Jozef Ivaska, Internationally renowned singer from Slovakia

Pittsburgh Slovakians PAS (Pittsburgh Area Slovaks)

Slavjane Folk Ensemble Ben Sorenson on Fujara

Also Featuring: Cultural Displays and Lectures

Shop for Christmas: Slovak and Eastern European import venders

Ethnic Food (klobasa, halusky, holupki, pirohy and pastries)

(Please donate cookies of pastries in support of this wonderful FREE

festival. Bring them to the pastry table in the Commons Room.)

For more information, contact Christine Metil at 412-624-5906 or [email protected].

LODGE 276 DELEGATES ATTEND CONVENTION

The newness of our Slovak families’ lives has begun! The Fraternal Convention XXXIV merger was held in the Sands Hotel of Bethlehem, Pa., from July 27th to 31st. All lodge and district representatives attended daily meetings and voted honorably to gain beneficial fraternalism as friends. Our Lodge 276 delegates attending the meeting were Carolyn Coleman and Matthew M. Blistan, Sr. The officer membership of our Sokols was masterfully conducted with concern and good judgment. National Vice President of GBU Matthew M. Blistan, Jr. and GBU National Secretary James Stoker spoke and distributed informative reports and graphs showing successful workmanship going on. Our Sokol Supreme Officers also had important information to report and pass along to the delegates. A very delicious and welcoming dinner for all was held in another part of the extended convention room. In addition, refreshments of coffee and appetizers were always nearby daily during these meetings for all. On August 4th, our Sokol Lodge 276 remembered sadly our late Pastor John Haeberle, who passed recently. Pastor Haeberle had officiated our church services and spoke before the luncheon and activities at Evergreen Park in Pittsburgh, Pa., where we held our summer picnics. Nazdar! Amelia Blistan Reporting for Lodge 276

OCTOBER 10, 2013 SOKOL TIMES

LODGE 114 ANNUAL

CLAM BAKE Lodge 114 held its annual c lam bake on Sunday, August 25th at our club, The National Sokol Inc. in the Village of Sleepy Hollow, N.Y. Our clam bake started at 9 a.m. with breakfast and ended with a steak dinner. There were also additional refreshments and drinks served throughout the day. Our chefs, Brothers Neil Martone, Sonny Battista and John Bellontoni, did an excellent job of preparing and presenting all the menu items. Our sporting events were horseshoes and shuffleboard. There were ten teams competing in each event. The winners in horseshoes were Mitch Meade and Geoff Adler and the winners in shuffleboard were Earl Briggs and Jerry Naven. Everyone enjoyed the day with excellent food, drinks, weather and company. A special thanks to our committees – purchasing, bar, sports and clean up – that also made this day possible. Nazdar Stephen Horecky Secretary

Happy Halloween!

Several weeks have passed since our National Convention in Bethlehem approved the proposed merger with GBU. As we move into the fall season, the process of obtaining the approvals for the merger from the Pennsylvania and the New Jersey Insurance Commissions has begun. The Merger Agreement provides that the merger will be effective following the approvals of both of the Insurance Commissions. Until that time, business will be conduct as usual. Our Supreme Lodge will meet in early October. At the National Convention, many people volunteered to serve on the Transition Team. The Transition Team will commence its work and begin revising our by-laws. The members of the Transition Team are Joe Bielecki, Milan Kovac, Ed Bohon, Karen Ondira, Bee Walko, Steve Banjak, Pat Blistan, Nancy Shurina, Chris Yatchyshyn, James Malik and Debbie Golden. Our Sports, Fitness and Wellness Department is planning the 2016 Sokol Fest, which will be held in Pittsburgh, Pa., in the summer. The Sports, Fitness and Wellness Directors, Todd and Chris Yatchyshyn, are beginning the planning of exciting sports and physical fitness events for the Sokol Fest. There will also be social events, including a planned banquet at the University of Pittsburgh Nationality Rooms. The goal is to have a fun-filled Sokol Fest with something for all ages and backgrounds. In conjunction with the re-titling of the Gymnastics Department to the Sports, Fitness and Wellness Department at the Bethlehem convention, the Department will begin to explore prospective fitness and wellness related activities beyond those of traditional rhythmic gymnastics. At the same time, I urge our members and our lodges to continue their activities as usual. Sokol USA activities will continue under the title “Sokol USA, A Division of GBU.” Our lodges should continue to hold their meetings and continue to do all the fraternal and sports activities

Joseph Bielecki

which they have normally done in the past. The merger does not mean a cessation of activities. The merger means the continuation of past activities and the exploration of new activities for the future. Our Supreme Secretary, Milan Kovac, is meeting with our Sokol USA’s accountants and actuaries. They are in the process of calculating the distribution of surplus which will result in policy enhancements for our members following the merger. The Sokol Times will also continue, although in a somewhat different design format. And the headquarters in New Jersey will continue for the immediate future in order that a smooth transition will occur. Being part of GBU will also

offer our members the ability to purchase new and different insurance and annuity products beyond the selection presently offered by Sokol USA. Additionally, our membership will receive the GBU newspaper and participate in the many fraternal activities offered by GBU, as well as our regular Sokol USA fraternal and sports activities. The next several months will bring many interesting and exciting opportunities! NAZDAR! Joe Bielecki President, Sokol USA

Abover, winners in the shuffleboard competition were Jerry Naven (left) and Earl Briggs. Below, Winners in the horseshoe competition were Mitch Meade (left) and Geoff Adler.

Members of Lodge 114 gather for a group photo at the Annual Clam Bake held on Sunday, August 25th.

From the President’s View

Sokol Social NewsHAPPY BIRTHDAY

Nikki H. Luchan from Paramus, N.J., a member of Lodge 26 in Guttenberg, N.J., celebrated her 90th birthday in May.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY Paul Schnitta from Guttenberg, N.J., a member of Lodge 26 in Guttenberg, N.J., celebrated his 96th birthday in July.


XXXIV CONVENTION OF THE

SLOVAK GYMNASTIC UNION SOKOL OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

SOKOL U.S.A.

Held in Bethlehem, PA From July 28 through July 30, 2013

SECOND SESSION

Monday, July 29, 2013

The second session of the XXXIV Convention was called to order at 9:00 AM on Monday, July 29, 2013.

Sis. Walko asked the delegation to review the minutes of the First Session,

and turn in corrections throughout the morning. The delegation can vote to approve the minutes and any amendments at the next session. Sis. Walko reminded the delegation that the Convention is following our Operating Procedures and our By-Laws.

Sis. Walko welcomes Bro. Bielecki. Bro. Bielecki addressed the delegation

and introduced Caroline Bazik, the National Editor of First Catholic Slovak Ladies Association, who sent her best wishes on behalf of her association.

Bro. Bielecki read greetings from: Sis. Lillian Hrbek, President of Lodge 1, NY, Sokol USA; Teresa Kluchinsky, National President of Ladies PA Catholic Slovak Union; and Andrew Rajac, President of First Catholic Slovak Union. Sis. Bea Walko, Chairperson of the Convention, requested that the

Verification Committee Chairperson, Bro. Jeff Richter approach the podium for roll call.

REPORT OF THE VERIFICATION COMMITTEE: Advisor – Sis. Joanne Check, Finance Committee Member Chairperson – Bro. Jeff Richter, Lodge 93 Member – Sis. Kristin Merker, Lodge 306 Member – Bro. John West, Lodge 16 Member – Sis. Margaret Stangl, Jan Kollar Bro. Richter took the roll call. The total number of votes is 109. There are 28 Lodge delegates totaling 83 votes, 5 District delegates totaling 4 votes, and 22 Supreme Lodge and Guest Delegates (one vote each). Sis. Walko asked for a motion to accept the report of the Verification Committee. Motion was made and seconded… MOTION CARRIED. REPORT OF THE CONVENTION EXPENSES & SALARIES COMMITTEE Advisor – Bro. Arthur Burkhardt, Treasurer Chairperson – Bro. Ed Bohon, Lodge 32 Member – Bro. Miguel Alicea, Lodge 2 Member – Bro. Darren Molony, Lodge 7 Bro. Bohon read the recommendations of the Committee for Convention Expenses, all of which were unanimously decided.

1) The Committee recommends that the Convention Chairman and Vice Chairman receive $100.00 per diem. There shall be no “double dipping” of per diems. If the Chair or Vice Chair receives 2 or more per diems due to other offices or positions he or she would be allowed to take the higher amount.

2) The Committee recommends that the Sergeant(s)-at-Arms receive $50.00 per diem (each).

3) The Committee recommends that the Supreme Lodge pay transportation to each bona fide delegate as per section Article IV, Section 7 of the By-Laws including District representation, Supreme Lodge officer, appointed officer and guest delegates.

Milan Kovac and Brigid Ruvolo

4) a) The Committee recommends air travel to be reimbursed at Coach Air fare plus local cab fare. A duplicate copy of the airline ticket must be attached to your expense voucher.

b) The Committee recommends car travel to be reimbursed to the driver of the car, not to additional delegates in the car, at the rate of $0.565 per mile, tolls and parking expense. Reimbursement is not to exceed coach air fare.

5) The Committee recommends that the Supreme Lodge reimburse the travel and lodge expenses of not more than two delegates per lodge as per Article IV, Section 2 of the By-Laws.

6) The Committee recommends that the lodging expenses be paid for the Officers and District representatives, Guest delegates in addition to the Recording Secretary.

7) The Committee recommends that the following meals be provided to the Delegates, Guest Delegates, Convention Chairpersons, Legal Advisor, Supreme Lodge Officers, Honorary Officers, Editor, Convention Hostesses, Recording Secretary and officially invited guests:

Cocktail Reception – Sunday, 7/28/13 Banquet – Sunday, 7/28/13 Breakfast & Lunch – Monday, 7/29/13 (Lunch will be provided to

those individuals listed above.) Social at Bethlehem Lodge 93 club, – Monday, 7/29/13 Breakfast & Lunch – Tuesday, 7/30/13

The Committee moved that these 7 recommendations, all involving the

Convention Expenses, be voted on as one. Sis. Walko asked for a motion to accept the report of Expenses and Salaries

Committee. Bro. von Schwedler makes motion to accept and Sis. Judith Smith seconded motion…MOTION CARRIED.

Bro. Bohon read the recommendations for the Salaries. The Committee recommends the following annual salaries for the Supreme Lodge Officers as follows: President $ 4,600.00 Vice President $ 1,125.00 Secretary: Annuity Benefits:

2014-2017 $ 87, 212 4,000 plus Medical, Rx, car Approximate value of Benefits: Medical/Rx $ 10,000.00 to increase annually Car $ 5,000.00

Treasurer $ 1,700.00 Chairperson of Finance Comm. $ 1,700.00 Member of Finance Comm. $ 1,125.00 (each) Chairperson of Fraternal Activities $ 900.00 Director of Men $ 2,800.00 Director of Women $ 2,800.00 National Gymnastics Assistants $ 330.00 (each) National Sports Coordinator $ 220.00 President of Supreme Court $ 250.00 - Per diem of Supreme Lodge Officers during meetings, traveling to meetings and

special work shall be $100.00. Full-time Officers are to receive per diem only (Continued on Page 5)




SOKOL U.S.A.

(Continued from Page 4) during the performance of official duties on Saturdays, Sundays and during Supreme Lodge meetings and Conventions.

- Per diem for the Sports Director and Assistants to the Director of Men and Women shall be $100.00. Authorization shall be by the Supreme Lodge prior to expenditures.

Going forward, Per Diem will not be paid by GBU, they will reimburse actual expenses.

The Committee made a motion that the salaries and per diem expenses be accepted, for as long as the Supreme Lodge is in effect, and voted on as one. Motion made by -----, and Bro. Richter seconded the motion. Sis. Walko opens the floor for discussion. Sis. Naccarato questioned why the Vice President’s salary doubled, while the other salaries had just increased a bit. Committee responded that they felt the Vice President’s salary had been too low. Sis. Walko called for a vote. Three delegates opposed and three abstentions… MOTION CARRIED.

Sis. Walko thanked and dismissed the Convention Salaries and Expenses

Committee.

Sis. Walko called upon the Ballot and Election Committee.

REPORT OF THE ELECTION AND BALLOT COMMITTEE Advisor – Bro. David Walko, Finance Committee Member Member – Sis. Nancy Shurina, Lodge 68 Member – Sis. Karen Pearson, Lodge 403

Sis. Karen Pearson reviews with the delegation the nomination procedure. All the Committee’s recommendations will be read and made as one motion.

1) Out of courtesy, current Supreme Lodge Officers should be nominated first; and then given the opportunity to decline if they so choose.

2) In conjunction with item #1, the Election and Ballot Committee will nominate and second all current Supreme Lodge Officers. As nominations are opened on the floor the current Supreme Lodge Officer will be nominated first and asked whether or not they accept the nomination, then the floor will open for other nominations.

The Election and Ballot Committee will nominate the following: President – Brother Joseph Bielecki Vice President – Brother Scott Pracko Treasurer – Brother Arthur Burkhardt Financial Secretary – Brother Milan Kovac Finance Committee – Brother Paul Brinley Sister Joanne Check Sister Debbie Golden Brother John Kamenitsky Brother Emil Trgala Brother Gerald von Schwedler Brother David Walko Chairperson of Cultural Activities – Sister Jennifer Moulton

The Gymnastic Department shall nominate the candidates for the Office of Director of Men and Director of Women, and shall recommend to the convention that the nominees be elected by the convention to their respective offices.

3) All member delegates seeking office shall be properly nominated; seconded; duly elected by secret ballot by the officers and delegates present at the convention; as provided by the By-Laws of the Slovak Gymnastic Union Sokol.

4) Each delegate shall be eligible to run for one office only. 5) As soon as the nominations are completed, the Committee will

prepare ballots on which names of candidates for each office shall appear in alphabetical order and shall show the number to be elected.

6) A delegate nominated for office who has been appointed previously to the Committee shall be replaced by a non-candidate delegate

Mary and John Kamenitsky

Supreme Lodge Officer. 7) The Committee on Ballots shall have complete charge of the election;

and after voting is completed shall count and preserve the ballots and promptly after tabulation announce the results to the Convention.

8) Every candidate shall have the right to be present during the tallying of the ballots, or shall have the right to have a delegate present to represent him or her.

9) Only one ballot shall be taken at the election. When more than one (1) officer is to be elected for the same office, votes must be cast for the total number to be elected, otherwise the ballot shall be deemed void. All candidates to be elected must receive a simple majority of the votes of the Convention.

10) In the event of a tie for any office, another ballot shall be taken only for those affected by the tie vote and the candidate receiving the highest number of votes on the run off shall be elected.

11) Any person nominated for more than one office will be listed for only the one nomination which he or she accepted.

12) The nominator must submit in writing to the Secretary of the Ballot Committee the name of the nominees as soon as he or she makes the nomination.

13) Any lodge with less than 10 votes may have up to three (3) ballots; lodges with 11 or more votes may have up to five (5) ballots. The sum of these votes will equal the allotted votes as presented by the By-Laws. Ballots will be color coded in case delegates would like to split their votes.

14) Each lodge shall have one (1) vote for every twenty-five members or fraction there of for his or her lodge, according to the statement of membership for the last month preceding the convention.

15) Delegates representing lodges which have fewer than twenty-five members, Supreme Lodge Officers, Guest Delegates and District Delegate shall have one (1) vote each.

16) The election shall take place no sooner than the next day or two sessions after the nominations are completed.

17) No write-in votes shall be accepted. 18) Article V, Section 1, of the By-Laws provides for the election of the

following officers: President, Vice President, Financial Secretary, Treasurer, Seven Members of the Finance Committee, Chairperson of the Cultural Activities, Director of Men and Director of Women.

19) The Ballot Committee shall have the right to set aside all questionable tallies and only count correct votes and consider questionable ones after all others are tallied. Delegates not answering to the first call have to wait for the second call before voting, and if the second call is not answered the delegates shall lose his right to vote. As soon as the Committee closes the election no further ballots will be accepted. In the event of a dispute as to number of votes that a lodge is entitled to, the amount of votes certified by the Verification Committee shall be binding.

20) Voting on Merger and other items which will affect the operation of Sokol U.S.A. will be done by Roll Call.

Sis. Walko moved for adoption of the Committee’s report. Sis. Smith accepted the motion and Bro. Steven Barron seconded the motion. Sis. Walko opens the floor for discussion. Sis. Naccarato questioned who will serve on the Advisory Board for “District Sokol” if merger becomes effective prior to January 1st, 2014. Bro. Kovac responded that the current Supreme Lodge Officers would serve as the Advisory Board until new officers take office January 1st , 2014. The current Supreme Lodge members would be offered the position on the new “District Board”. Bro. Kovac

(Continued on Page 8)


Wheelin’ in Milwaukee By Chris Yatchyshyn

Over 85 Sokol USA members attended the American Sokol 2013 Sports Festival, “Wheelin’ in Milwuakee,” held June 25-30. Over 80 Sokol USA participants and family members from the Chicago, Farrell and Monessen Lodges were in attendance, along with seven Supreme Lodge Officers. Sokol USA was represented in the 5K Run, the Fitness Challenge, the Marching Competition, the Gymnastics Competitions, the Wheel Competition, the Relay Race and the Tug-of-War Competition. Sokol USA members also enjoyed many of the social events, including visiting the Sokol museum in the Hyatt Regency Hotel, the Brewers vs. Cubs Baseball game, the banquet, the Miller Brewery Tour, the Discovery World Youth Activity, Ice Skaing at the Pettit Ice Center and the Finale Party held following the Closing Ceremony Program. Our members proudly participated in the grand march and various closing ceremony performances including the Children’s Calisthenics, the Group II Calisthenics, the Adult Calisthenics, the Junior Calisthenics and the All Sokol Finale. Congratulations to American Sokol on their fine Closing Ceremony Program that gathered Sokols from around the world “honoring our country, our rich history, family and communities.”

Sokol USA Fitness Challenge winners from Monessen and Chicago show off their shiny new medals. In front from left are Matthew Pracko, 1st Boys 10-12; Eva Mei Rose Vogt, 1st Girls 6-9; and Anna Catherine Lu Vogt, 1st Girls 10-12; and, in back, Scott Pracko, 1st Men 35-49; Stacy Hoffman, 2nd Women 17-24; Coach Charity Ruhl, Talladaga DeWitt, 4th Junior Girls 12-14; and Al Vogt, 1st Mens 50-59.

The Sokol USA Tug-A-War team put up a great effort. Thanks, Stacy, for being a good sport and helping out the guys!

Members of Sokol USA Chicago Lodge 306 and Lodge 39W before the Closing Ceremony Program in Hart Park.

The Sokol USA Relay Team was young, but they gained valuable experience. Watch out for them in the future! Missing from the photo is Roberta Pegg, who had to immediately run to her calisthenics position following the race.

Chicago Senior Women Natalie Smith, Cindy Merker and Gigi Arroyo captured a team award.


Above, Rich and Chris Yatchyshyn. Below, Anne Marie and Paul Brinley.

Above, Arlene Von Swedler and daughter Debbie Golden following their performances in the finale. Below, the Pracko family.

The Farrell Sokol gymnasts are all smiles as they show off their awards.

The Chicago Marching Team proudly displays their First Place Award in the Open Category.

The Monessen gymnasts relax on the mats after a strong showing in the gymnastics competitions.


From left are Emil Trgala, Debbie Golden, Arlene Von Schwedler, Joann Check and Jerry Von Schwedler

XXXIV CONVENTION

OF THE SLOVAK GYMNASTIC UNION SOKOL

OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA SOKOL U.S.A.

(Continued from Page 5)

read #6 and #9 from the proposed merger agreement. Sis. Naccarato stated that certain Supreme Lodge positions may have altered job duties when the merger takes effect. Mr. James Stoker, CEO of GBU, clarifies that the members that are elected to be on the Advisory Board and also to be officers on the “District Board”. Mr. Stoker emphasized that the members the delegation choose to elect at this Convention, should be dedicated to the future of Sokol USA. Officers that take office on January 1st will serve the remaining five years. Bro. Skovronek mentions that roles and responsibilities of Officers may change after the merger and wonders what will happen if the newly elected officers are no longer able to fulfill the responsibilities of their position. Bro. Skovronek also wanted clarification on the annual election mentioned in the merger agreement. Bro. Kovac confirmed that the roles will certainly change. Bro. Bielecki stated that a transition committee will be appointed to help with the transition. He also stressed the importance of guaranteeing that we elect 14 committed members to help ensure our future. Sis. Ondira re-phrased Bro. Skovronek’s question. She asked if, after a year, is there a possibility to elect new officers if they are not able to fulfill their new duty post-merger. Sis. Walko stated Sokol USA might have to change our By-Laws in order for that to occur. Bro. Skovronek stated that we would be following GBU By-Laws. Mr. Stoker clarified that the Supreme Lodge officers elected at this Convention will serve as the Advisory Board for five years, and they will also have the opportunity to be the officers for the newly-created District Board. There will be annual elections for the officers on the District Board. Sis. Kovac wanted confirmation then that initially, the Advisory Board and the District Board could be the exact same people, but while the Advisory Board will stay the same for five years, every year there will be elections for the officers on the District Board. Mr. Stoker confirmed. Bro. Todd Yatchyshyn questioned how the Advisory Board will work in cooperation with any newly-elected members to District Board (if the District Board officers happen to change after a year), since GBU will cover salaries of Advisory Board for five years but the District Board may be volunteers. Sis. Naccarato questioned where the funds will come from for the future salaries of the District Board. Sis. Walko stated there will be Sokol funds available, and the decisions will be how to spend the funds. Sis. Yatchyshyn, Director of Women, concerned about positions, but also the budget going forward post-merger. It is unrealistic and difficult to attend Sokol meetings in addition to GBU meetings, and to take off of work, with little to no financial compensation. Sis. Pearson stated that the discussion had moved away from election procedures. Sis. Pearson asked the delegation if there were any questions regarding election procedures. Bro. Skovronek stated that there are potential nominees that aren’t present, and so they aren’t eligible to be nominated. Bro. Skovronek asked to suspend two sections of the By-Laws so they can be nominated. Sis. Walko stated that Bro. Skovronek was out-of-order. Dr. Slane, the Parliamentarian, quoted pg 252 Roberts Rules 10th edition, Rule #25: suspend the rules - can be applied to any rule, except the By-Laws. So, the Convention cannot suspend the By-Laws for election procedures. The Convention can amend or annul, however it needs a motion, seconded, and needs to be approved by a 2/3 vote. Bro. Skovronek stated that the proper motion is to amend two sections of the By-Laws so that a non-delegate and a District delegate can be nominated. Bro. Kovac and Dr. Slane reminded that New Motions need to be submitted 60 days prior to Convention. Sis. Walko summarized a previous incident when Bro. Scott Pracko was nominated for his current position and had to leave a previous Convention, so that Convention suspended the By-Laws to allow for the vote for so that he could be elected. The issue at hand is that Bro. Skovronek would

like to nominate a non-delegate and district delegate to run for Supreme Lodge (refer to the By-Laws on pg 3, Article 4, paragraph A, and pg 7, Article 4). Sis. Walko stated that procedurally, the first motion would be to amend Section 13 which states that motions must be sent to the Supreme Secretary not later than 60 days prior to the Convention. Bro. Skovronek quoted from Section 14, pg 9.

Bro. Skovronek made a motion to amend the process (from Section 13), so

that delegates may make motions from the floor of the Convention. Sis. Naccarato seconded. Discussion ensued. Bro. Alicea stated that since the merger has so facets and unknowns, the Convention should be flexible to discussion; we can’t expect people to know 60 days prior to the Convention what might need to be discussed. Bro. Kovac stated that he objects to the motion, however to nominate a non-delegate should have been thought of long before Convention. Bro. Yatchyshyn asked the delegation to consider new ideas and the opportunities that change may bring about, especially since the delegation voted to merge for a new future and since the changes can be made in an orderly fashion. Bro. Bohon referred to page 9, Section 13. Bro. Bohon states that there’s a distinction between delegates and lodges, districts, or individual members; so delegates should be able to make motion at convention. Bro. Burkhardt disagrees with the motion. He stated that the Convention was not a spur of the moment event, so people had enough notice to make a person interested running for office a Lodge delegate, instead of disrupting the Convention process. Sis. Yatchyshyn emphasized that 60 days ago, the Supreme Lodge Officers were still gathering information regarding the merger, and the delegation was still forming their questions and concerns about the merger; now that the delegates have more information, they are trying to do what’s best for the future of Sokol USA. Bro. Bielecki states that it’s preferable at this point to have a transition team so Lodge can make informed decisions. Sis. Naccarato agrees with Bro. Bohon that the By-Laws do not specifically state a delegate cannot make a motion from the floor. Sis. Walko calls upon the Election and Ballot Committee to take Roll Call vote. A 2/3 majority approval requires 73 votes (out of 109 total) to pass the motion.

Bro. Todd Yatchyshyn makes motion for recess. Sis. Nancy Shurina, Lodge

68, seconded... MOTION CARRIED. Convention reconvened at 10:40 A.M. Sis. Walko welcomes Election and Ballot Committee to take Roll Call vote.

Sis. Pearson called the roll. LODGES # of VOTES YES NO ABSTAIN

2- Bridgeport 2 2

7 -Byram 7 7

12- Central Jersey 6 6

16-Braddock 2 2

26-Guttenberg 4 4

32-Boonton 16 16

39/40W-Berwyn 4 4

47-Monessen 3 3

59-Trenton 1 1

68-Blairsville 4 4

93-Bethlehem 4 2 2

103-Farrell 6 6

130-New Kensington 3 3

255-Leechburg 6 6

276-Pittsburgh 5 5

306-Chicago 6 6

401-Tampa 1 1

66W-Bethlehem 3 2 1

District MM Hodza 1 1

District L Stur 1 1

District Jan Kollar 1 1

District MCT 1 1

President 1 1

Honorary President 1 1

Vice President 1 1

Supreme Secretary 1 1

Honorary SS 1 1

Treasurer 1 1

Honorary Treasurer -JS 1 1

Finance Committee--PB 1 1





SOKOL U.S.A.

(Continued from Page 8)

LODGES # of VOTES YES NO ABSTAIN

Finance Committee--PB 1 1

Finance Committee--JC 1 1

Finance Committee--DG 1 1

Finance Committee--JK 1 1

Finance Committee--ET 1 1

Finance Committee--GV 1 1

Finance Committee--DW 1 1

Fraternal Activities 1 1

Director of Men 1 1

Director of Women 1 1

Honorary Dir of Women 1 1

Pres of Supreme Court 1 1

Guest Delegate--TC 1 1

Guest Delegate--JW 1 1

Guest Delegate--RY 1 1

TOTAL 109 48 59 2 48 voted in favor and 59 voted against with 2 abstentions. MOTION

REJECTED. Sis. Pearson states this means the Convention will be following the By-Laws as is.

Sis. Walko called on a vote to adopt the Election and Ballot Committee’s

report. (Sis. Smith had moved to accept their motion and Bro. Steven Barron seconded the motion.) There was 1 ‘No’ and 1 abstention... MOTION CARRIED.

Sis. Walko called for the nominations because nominations must occur two

sessions before the elections.

REPORT OF THE ELECTION AND BALLOT COMMITTEE Advisor – Bro. David Walko, Finance Committee Member Member – Sis. Nancy Shurina, Lodge 68 Member – Sis. Karen Pearson, Lodge 403 The Election and Ballot Committee nominates the following: President – Bro. Joseph Bielecki Vice President – Bro. Scott Pracko Treasurer – Bro. Arthur Burkhardt Financial Secretary – Bro. Milan Kovac Finance Committee – Bro. Paul Brinley Sis. Joanne Check Sis. Debbie Golden Bro. John Kamenitsky Bro. Emil Trgala Bro. Gerald von Schwedler Bro. David Walko Chairperson of Cultural Activities – Sis. Jennifer Moulton

The Gymnastic Department shall nominate the candidates for the Office of Director of Men and Director of Women, and shall recommend to the convention that the nominees be elected by the convention to their respective offices.

Nominations for President. The Committee moved to nominate Bro. Bielecki for president. Bro. Bielecki accepted the nomination. Sis. Shurina seconded. MOTION CARRIED. Nominations for Vice-President. The Committee moved to nominate Bro. Scott Pracko for Vice President. Bro. Scott Pracko accepted the nomination. Sis. Shurina seconded. MOTION CARRIED. Nominations for Treasurer. The Committee moved to nominate Bro. Burkhardt for Treasurer. Bro. Burkhardt accepted the nomination. Sis. Shurina seconded. MOTION CARRIED.

From left are Matt and Millie Blistan, Joann Check, Teena Coleman and Carolyn Coleman. Nominations for Supreme Secretary. The Committee moved to nominate Bro. Kovac for Supreme Secretary. Bro. Kovac accepted the nomination, with the understanding of terms of the merger. Sis. Shurina seconded. MOTION CARRIED. Nominations for the Finance Committee. The Committee moved to nominate current Finance Committee Members. Bro. Paul Brinley accepted the nomination. Sis. Shurina seconded. Sis. Joanne Check did not accept the nomination. Sis. Pearson thanked Sis. Check for her service. Sis. Debbie Golden accepted the nomination. Sis. Shurina seconded. Bro. Trgala accepted the nomination. Sis. Shurina seconded. Bro. Kamenitsky accepted the nomination. Sis. Shurina seconded. Bro. von Schwedler did not accept the nomination. Sis. Pearson thanked Bro. von Schwedler for his service. Bro. Walko accepted the nomination. Sis. Shurina seconded. Nominations for Cultural Activities Chairperson The Committee moved to nominate Sis. Jennifer Moulton for Cultural Activities Chairperson. Sis. Jennifer Moulton did not accept the nomination. Sis. Pearson thanked Sis. Moulton for her services. Nominations for Gymnastics Department – Director of Men and Women. The Gymnastics Department nominated Sis. Yatchyshyn and Bro. Todd Yatchyshyn for Gymnastics Department Director of Women and Men. Sis. Yatchyshyn accepted the nomination. Bro. Todd Yatchyshyn accepted the nomination. Sis. Shurina seconded. Sis. Brinley wanted to clarify whether the New Motions Committee should address a new motion regarding a title change of the Director of Men and Women. Sis. Walko stated that the New Motion can be addressed after the nominations. Open Nominations The Committee opened the nominations for President. As there were no other nominations for President, Bro. Walko moved to close nominations. Bro. Bohon seconded. MOTION CARRIED The Committee opened the nominations for Vice President. As there were no other nominations for Vice President, Bro. Walko moved to close nominations. Bro. Bohon seconded. MOTION CARRIED The Committee opened the nominations for Treasurer. Bro. Skovronek moved to nominate Sis. Naccarato for Treasurer. Sis. Ruhl seconded. MOTION CARRIED The Committee opened the nominations for Supreme Secretary. As there were no other nominations for Supreme Secretary, Bro. Walko moved to close nominations. Seconded. MOTION CARRIED The Committee opened the nominations for Finance Committee. Sis. Brinley nominated Sis. Kovac for Finance Committee. Sis. Carolyn Coleman seconded. MOTION CARRIED. Sis. Yatchyshyn nominated Sis. Ruhl for Finance Committee. Bro. Rich Yatchyshyn seconded. MOTION CARRIED. Bro. Todd Yatchyshyn nominated Bro. Stephen Banjak for Finance Committee. Bro. Richter seconded. MOTION CARRIED.



Josie and Teddy Bielecki



SOKOL U.S.A.

(Continued from Page 9) As there were no other nominations for Finance Committee. Bro. Walko moved to close nominations. Bro Bohon seconded. MOTION CARRIED The Committee opened the nominations for Cultural Activities Chairperson. Sis. Ondira nominated Sis. Shurina for the Cultural Activities Chairperson. Sis. Smith seconded. MOTION CARRIED. Bro. Bryan Pracko nominated Sis. Kristin Merker for the Cultural Activities Chairperson. Sis. Ruhl seconded. MOTION CARRIED. As there were no other nominations for Cultural Activities Chairperson. Bro. Walko moved to close nominations. Bro Bohon seconded. MOTION CARRIED The Committee opened the nominations for Gymnastics Department Director of Men and Women. As there were no other nominations, Bro. Walko moved to close nominations. Bro. Bohon seconded. MOTION CARRIED.

Sis. Walko dismissed the Election and Ballot Committee. Sis. Walko welcomes Al Eglow and Allen Ferone. Sis. Walko introduced Al Eglow, CPA, who has been servicing our organization since 1970. Mr. Eglow complimented the delegation for its fraternalism. He recognized Bro. Sopoci and Bro. Kovac for their hard work and dedication to Sokol USA. It was through their efforts that Sokol USA is so solvent. Mr. Eglow reviewed the finances for the past four years. Mr. Eglow complimented Sokol USA’s solvency rate of 195%. He complimented our programs and said our programs really set Sokol USA apart from other fraternals.

Sis. Walko thanked Mr. Eglow for his information and introduced Sokol USA’s consulting actuary from CPS Actuaries, Allen Ferrone. This is Mr. Ferrone’s 6th Sokol USA Convention. Mr. Ferone prepared and distributed a ten-year summary of Sokol USA’s financial report. The report included charts that compare information such as Surplus, Assets, Solvency, Number of Membership Policies and Age Distribution of Membership. Mr. Ferrone complimented our large surplus and assets, and its increased quality of our bond portfolio. Mr. Ferrone stated that our biggest risk is the lack of membership growth. Mr. Ferrone reviews a ten- year summary of GBU’s financial report. GBU’s solvency rate is 105%. Their annuity and life insurance policies sold has increased by 80%. Sis. Walko thanked Mr. Ferone for his presentation. Sis. Walko opened the floor for corrections to the minutes. Bro. Kovac thanks Mr. Elgow and Mr. Ferone for their presentations and their services over the years.

At 11:45 AM, Sis. Walko announced we would recess for lunch.

Respectfully submitted, Erin McGann.


CARNIVAL OF FITNESS – On Saturday, September 21st, the Monessen Sokol Lodge hosted a Carnival of Fitness at Falcon Gymnastics. The event was held in conjunction with National Gymnastics Day to promote physical fitness through participation in gymnastics. More photos on Pages 1 and 12.

SHARE YOUR FAMILY EVENTS WITH YOUR “SOKOL FAMILY”

The Sokol Times Social Page is a great way to keep up

with your old and new friends! Share your families’ events with your Sokol family. We want to hear from you.

Only news regarding members of our lodges will be printed.

Complete one of the attached forms and mail the information and a photograph of clear quality to Sokol USA, 276 Prospect

Street, P.O. Box 189, East Orange, NJ 07019-0189. Information and photographs also may be e-mailed to:

[email protected]

ENGAGEMENTS, WEDDINGS & ANNIVERSARIES

NAMES: _____________________

_____________________

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HOMETOWN: _________________

SOKOL LODGE: ________________

YEARS MARRIED (IF APPLICABLE): ___

BIRTHDAYS

NAME: _____________________

BIRTH DATE: _________________

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SOKOL LODGE: ________________

PROMOTIONS,HONOR ROLLS & OTHER EVENTS

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SOKOL LODGE: ________________

EVENT: _____________________

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Photographs are not required, but they do add to the presentation. Please include a self addressed, stamped envelope if you would like your photograph returned.

DONATIONS GRATEFULLY ACKNOWLEDGED

To the Milan Getting Scholarship From Sokol Lodge 74, Plymouth, Pa. $50.00 In memory of deceased Sokol members To the Sokol USA Gymnastic Fund From Sokol Lodge 74, Plymouth, Pa. $50.00 In memory of deceased Sokol members From Sokol Lodge 15W, Binghamton, N.Y. $50.00 In memory of Sisters Olga Bederka and Christine Vrabel Sollis ELAINE FARRIS – (1930-2013) A member of Lodge 66W in Bethlehem, Pa. She is survived by her husband. OLGA U. SUMKA – (1921-2013) A member of Lodge 5W in Byram, Conn. She is survived by her daughter. MICHAEL A. RUSNAK – (1925-2008) A member of Lodge 63 in Homestead, Pa. He is survived by his children. ROBERT FREISLEBEN – (1927-2013) A member of Lodge 62 in Ambridge, Pa. He is survived by his wife. HELEN ARNDT – (1912-2013) A member of Lodge 103 in Farrell, Pa. She is survived by her stepdaughter. HARRY SPATH – (1920-2013) A member of Lodge 276 in Pittsburgh, Pa. He is survived his son. PAUL VALACHOVIC – (1921-2013) A member of Lodge 99 in Johnstown, N.Y. He is survived by his son.

IN MEMORY Of our deceased Brother and Sister Sokols with a sincere expression of sympathy to their families

from the Supreme Officers of Sokol U.S.A.


Carnival of Fitness (Continued from Page 1)

entered as second-class matter, february 7, 1980 at east ... · entered as second-class matter,...

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