Ational lovak ociety Costumes and Pumpkins and Candy, Oh My! - Where "Family Matters" - NSS Life
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62101NSSNatlNwsOct14_Layout 1 9/15/14 8:54 AM Page 2
N A T I O N A L N E W S
ational lovak ociety
Where “Family Matters”
OCTOBER 2014 | NUMBER 3474| VOLUME 106
Costumes and Pumpkins
and Candy, Oh My!
62101NSSNatlNwsOct14_Layout 1 9/11/14 3:31 PM Page 3
National Slovak Society News
N A T I O N A L N E W S
Inside this Issue...
ational lovak ociety
Periodical Postage Paid at McMurray, Pennsylvania and Additional Mailing Offices
Assembly Activities
Owned and Published by the
Activities at a Glance ............................ 3
NATIONAL SLOVAK SOCIETY
OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Organized February 16, 1890
From the Executive Officers
351 Valley Brook Road, McMurray, PA 15317-3337 President’s Column................................. 4
USPS 0371-140 - ISSN: 0027-7940 Vice-President’s Column ........................ 5
Phone: (724) 731- 0094 -- E-Mail: info@nsslife.org Secretary/Treasurer ................................ 6
NSS Web Site: www.nsslife.org
Fax No: 724-731-0145
NSS Financial Matters
Founder and Honorary President, Peter V. Rovnianek
EDITOR 2nd Quarter Annual Report .................... 7
LORI CROWLEY Annuity Interest Rates ............................ 10
Published Monthly
Send articles for publication to:
Lori Crowley NSS Sales Department
351 Valley Brook Road
National Sales Director............................ 11
McMurray, PA 15317-3337
Unsolicited manuscripts are not returned unless accompanied
with a self-addressed stamped envelope.
Deadline: 5th of preceding month.
NSS Activities
“POSTMASTER” SEND ADDRESS CHANGES TO:
NATIONAL SLOVAK SOCIETY
Fraternal Activities Coordinator .............. 9
351 VALLEY BROOK ROAD, MCMURRAY, PA 15317-3337 Assembly Photos .................................14-15
NSS NATIONAL OFFICERS
David G. Blazek, FIC, National President & Elder
Assembly News
Dean Burns, FIC, Vice-President PVR Donations ....................................... 8
Linda Strom, Secretary/Treasurer Meeting Notices .................................. 12-13
Departed Members ................................ 16
NSS NATIONAL DIRECTORS NSS HONORARY OFFICERS
Anthony Beno Sophia Hudak, Tribunal Member
Na;rodne; Noviny
Keith S. Godor Edward Havir, Director
Mary Jo Holker Okto;ber - mesiac u;cty k stars'i;m .... 17
Edward Koches, Director
Robert Katricak Stretnutie sa Slov;akov v Pittsburghu. 17
Paul J. Godor, Director
William B. Knoll Gas'tany su; azda odprada;vna
Joseph Tomaskovic, Jr., Director
Susan Ondrejco symbolom jesene .............................. 17
Joseph Stefka, Jr. Slovensky; festival pri Univerzite
Drew Wesnak Pittsburgh .......................................... 17
FSWFE HONORARY OFFICERS PBU HONORARY OFFICERS
Justine Wesnak, President Henri O. Albert, President Youth Circle
Reverend Monsignor Thomas V. Banick, Reverend George Virchick
Spiritual Advisor Letters of Appreciation.............................. 18
Ornament Contest Rules........................ 19
ROCWMAS HONORARY OFFICER
Olga Kasnot, President
FSWFE and PBU merged with NSS in 1997
ROCWMAS merged with the NSS in 1998
2 N AT I O N A L S L O V A K S O C I E T Y N E W S OCTOBER 201462101NSSNatlNwsOct14_Layout 1 9/11/14 3:31 PM Page 4
Activities at a Glance...
REGION 2 Assemblies L075, 0146, 0617
October 19 Assembly L075, Meeting, Grande Pizzeria, Birney Avenue, Moosic, PA at 1:00 pm
October 25 Region 2, Meeting at Grotto Pizza, Edwardsville, PA at 12:30 pm
REGION 5 Assemblies P38A, 0039, 0100, L105, 0108, 0123, L161, 0283, 0377,
0434, 0441, 0588, 0700, 0737, 0774, 0809
October 18 Assembly 0737, Meeting, Godor’s Residence, North Huntingdon, PA at 1:00 pm
October 19 Region 5, Meeting, Home Office, McMurray, PA at 1:00 pm
October 24 Assembly 0123, Meeting/Lunch, (After volunteering at World Vision Warehouse at 9:30 am)
December 7 Assembly 0039, Christmas Party, Knights of Columbus Social Hall, Uniontown, PA at 2:00 pm
REGION 7 Assemblies P09A, 0008, 0731
October 11 Assembly 0731, Halloween Hayride, Countryside Farms, Lowellville, OH at 5:30 pm
December 6 Region 7, Christmas Party, Holy Family Parish Hall, Poland, OH at 1:00 pm
REGION 8 Assemblies 0004, 0070, 0160, 0432, 0595
October 15 Region 8, Meeting, American Slovak Club, Lorain, OH at 7:30 pm
October 21 Assembly 0432, Meeting, Koches Residence, Strongsville, OH at 7:30 pm
December 16 Assembly 0432, Christmas Party/Meeting, 7:30 pm, Location TBD
REGION 10 Assemblies 0586
October 26 Assembly 0586/0065, Meeting, Hackney’s, Palos Park, IL
November 30 Assembly 0586, Christmas Party, Bohemian Garden Restaurant, Downers Grove at 1:00 pm
December 11 Assembly 0586, Stedraky Christmas Luncheon, Sts. Peter & Paul Lutheran Church, Riverside, IL
REGION 14 Assemblies RO59, L102
October 26 Assembly R059, Meeting/Matching Fund Project, St. Nicholas Orthodox Church, Bethlehem, PA
REGION 15 Assemblies L002, 0028, L145
No activities at this time
AT LARGE Assemblies R019, L040, 0110, 0236, 0299, 0381, 0554, 0568, 0705,
0800, 0813
October 5 Assembly 0554, Meeting, Stricek’s Residence, DuBois, PA at 2:00 pm
October 19 Assembly 0705, Meeting, Buck Home, Seelyville, IN at 1:00 pm
November 7 Assembly 0554, Meeting, Stricek’s Residence, DuBois, PA at 2:00 pm
December 24 Assembly 0705, Annual Christmas Eve celebration
N AT I O N A L S L O V A K S O C I E T Y N E W S OCTOBER 2014 362101NSSNatlNwsOct14_Layout 1 9/11/14 3:31 PM Page 5
National Slovak Society News from the Home Office
members and alumni. The term alumni
From The eficiaries you listed on your policy
when you purchased it reflect who you indicates a mutual shared experience
President’s Desk… want to receive the proceeds? and denotes your place in the organiza-
If you think you may need to update tion. There are no dues to belong to this
the beneficiaries listed on your policies, organization; dues were paid by wear-
contact your agent or call the Home ing the uniform and on the battlefield.
Office toll free at 1-800-488-1890 or I had the personal privilege of meet-
locally at 724-731-0094. ing a true wounded warrior this past
spring at a meeting of the FICs I at-
tended in San Diego California. The
Wounded Warrior warrior I met was a Navy Officer by the
Project name of Kevin Shaeffer who now serves
as a Wounded Warriors spokesperson.
The Wounded Warrior Project
currently serves veterans and service Officer Shaeffer was stationed at the
members who incurred a physical or Pentagon on September 11, 2001.
David G. Blazek, FIC
mental injury, illness or wound, con- Over 20 of his Navy comrades in his
National President section of the building were killed, but
nected to their military service on or
after September 11, 2001. On that miraculously, Kevin survived the crash.
Greetings! Summer is officially over He did suffered burns over 50 percent
but we are still hoping for some Indian date, America watched in horror as
approximately 3,000 people died of his body. To actually hear his story
Summer weather as we start October. was very emotional. The ironic part of
With the end of summer, the calendar including hundreds of firefighters and
rescue workers. Many warriors note a this story is that Kevin Shaeffer grew
shows more assembly meetings and up and went to high school at Peters
less outdoor activities. The only activity sense of duty to volunteer for the mili-
tary following this tragic event. Sep- Township High which is about 1 mile
I see in the schedule of events is from the Home Office of the National
Assembly 731's Halloween hayride, at tember 11th also served as a stimulus
for Operations Iraqi Freedom, Enduring Slovak Society.
Countryside Farms, Lowellville, Ohio on At the recently concluded convention
October 11th. This month is a busy Freedom, and New Dawn. Operation
Iraqi Freedom refers to military opera- in Hershey, Pennsylvania, the Board
month for State Fraternal Alliance had chosen the Wounded Warrior Proj-
meetings with Pennsylvania, Ohio, and tions in Iraq that began March 19,
2003 and officially ended August 31, ect as our community fund raiser.
New Jersey/New York Alliances holding Thanks to the generosity of our assem-
their annual meeting. In addition, we 2010. Operation Enduring Freedom
refers to combat operations in blies, regions and individuals, we
will observe Halloween on the 31st. raised $3,000 and made a presenta-
Get the candy ready or you may receive Afghanistan and other regions in sup-
port of the Global War on Terror. Opera- tion to the local branch of the Wounded
a trick from the youngsters in your Warriors in Hershey. Thank you to all
neighborhood. tion New Dawn refers to the conclusion
of operations in Iraq beginning Sep- that donated to such a worthy cause.
tember 1, 2010 and ending December
Beneficiary Updates 15, 2011. Adult Truths:
Are your beneficiaries up to date? For the Wounded Warrior Project, I can’t remember the last time I wasn’t at
This is a question you may not have there is a distinct difference between least kind-of tired.
asked yourself lately or ever. But, it’s
one you should ask yourself at least
annually. I can’t stress enough the
importance of regularly checking the News of Narodniars
beneficiaries listed on your life and/or I would like to extend a warm welcome to Patricia (Patty) Kropf and Ryan Strom
annuities. It is the only way to ensure who joined the NSS Home Office staff in September. Happy Birthday wishes go
that the people you want to receive the out to National Vice President Dean Burns, National Director Tony Beno, Honorary
benefits of your policies are the ones Officer Henri Albert, George Batyko, Irene Tomaskovic, Marie Palko, Home Office
who will receive it. Think about the staff member Rick Toth, Sales Agent Joe Elliott, Cathy Fox, daughter Nicole
changes that have occurred in your life Kearney, my mother Jean Blazek, Bob Kapp, JoAnna Lloyd and Carson Bernardo.
since you purchased your life or annuity Happy Anniversary wishes to Susan and Paul Payerchin, Carole and Ed Koches,
policy. Getting married, having children, Barb and Tod Wilcock, and to all others celebrating a special occasion this month.
losing a loved one, getting divorced, I was saddened to hear of the recent passing of Lucille Ward. Lucille had attended
getting remarried all these life changes our 36th Quadrennial Convention in June. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the
affect your responsibilities. Do the ben- Ward Family.
4 N AT I O N A L S L O V A K S O C I E T Y N E W S OCTOBER 201462101NSSNatlNwsOct14_Layout 1 9/11/14 3:31 PM Page 6
National Slovak Society News
The Second Opinion Paraphrasing the lyrics a little, where you are happy. While no one
lives happily ever after; neither do peo-
from the Vice-President “Isn’t rich? Are we a pair?
Me here at last on the ground; ple need to live unhappily ever after,
You in midair. Send in the Clowns. either.
As I wrote a couple of months ago,
Isn’t it bliss? Don’t you approve? there should be a place between. I
One who keeps tearing around? think I have found that place. You can,
One who can’t lose. Send In the Clowns. too. Well, maybe next year.
Just when I stopped opening doors.
Finally knowing the one that
I wanted was yours.
Making my entrance again; New NSS
With my usual flair;
No one was there. The newly elected Board will be
meeting in November. The average age
Dean Burns, FIC Don’t you love farce? My fault I fear. is much younger. I think that is good.
National Vice-President I thought that you’d want what I wanted, Many new ideas will get a chance to be
my dear. But, where are the clowns? heard. While the status quo is usually
Send in the Clowns. Well, maybe next year. okay, new is also good. Few people go
out looking for an old car to buy. Some
By the way, The song is later reprised do, but more are looking for the newest
after Fredrik's young wife runs away innovations. Most people brag about
with his son, and Fredrik is finally free the new things on the new car.
to accept Desirée's offer. (See, once in I expect that we at NSS will be tout-
a while dreams do come true.) ing the new things installed by the new
Send in the Clowns If we be honest, we probably all
have messed it up once or twice and
board, as well as the continuation of
There are many singers who have the older things which have served us
regretted it. And we wanted to make it well all these years.
recorded Send in the Clowns by
right and discovered that it was too Let the board members hear from
Stephen Sondheim for the 1973 musi-
late. you. They represent you, the members.
cal A Little Night Music. My favorite
At least I have so I am talking
artist who sings the song in Judy
mostly to myself. But I am more fortu-
Collins which may simply be because I
nate than most people. I have lots and
like all of Judy Collins recordings. (I
lots of people who tell me what I
admit my prejudice.)
should do or what I should have done.
Western PA Slovak Radio Hour
The song is sung in the play by a girl 32nd Annual Dinner Dance
I consider them to be my personal
Desirée who reflects on the ironies and
“Clowns”. Slovak Sokol Club
disappointments of her life. Among
These are the same people that
other things, she looks back on an af-
Tennyson wrote about in Ulysses. The 2912 E Carson Street
fair years earlier with the lawyer,
Fredrik. Meeting him after so long, she
ones who know not me, but would pre- Pittsburgh, PA 15203
sume to tell me how to live. (And how
finds that he is now in an unconsum-
to die) Of course, the end of the
mated marriage with a much younger Saturday - October 4, 2014
Ulysses poem says, that there is still
woman. Desirée proposes marriage to
time to do something worthy of him Social Hour - 5:00 pm
rescue him from this situation, but he
and his men, because they are. Buffet Dinner - 5:30 pm
declines, citing his dedication to his
bride. Reacting to his rejection, Desirée
“One equal temper of heroic hearts,
sings this song. The clowns are not the
Made weak by time and fate, Entertainment :
circus kind with funny costumes, but
rather the foolish people we encounter
but strong in will Kontakty from New Jersey
To strive, to seek, to find,
all too often. We all know “clowns”
and not to yield.”
Tickets:
who go through life without much sub- Sue Ondrejco at 412-421-1204
stance to their lives. It is those “clowns“
But, if you have the right faith, your
that she is looking to find.
life will find a way back to the place
N AT I O N A L S L O V A K S O C I E T Y N E W S OCTOBER 2014 562101NSSNatlNwsOct14_Layout 1 9/11/14 3:31 PM Page 7
National Slovak Society News from the Home Office
The following Old Business was
A Page From My Notebook...... addressed: Pa Insurance Department
By Linda M. Strom, National Secretary/Treasurer Meeting results; Pa Insurance Depart-
Email: lstrom@nsslife.org ment Examination progress, Review
Convention Details, Status of NSS
History Update and Final Budget
Approval.
The following New Business was
presented: Approval of the Platinum
& Diamond Awards for 2014 and the
selection of directors to the AFA Meet-
Happy Birthday Mom.. ing in September.
Time passes so quickly that before Under Good of the Order President
you know it we are another year older. Blazek announced the dates for the up-
I’d like to take this time to wish my The Investment Report, presented by
coming meetings as follows: Saturday
mother Marie Palko a very happy and Larry White, AQS, covered items such
September 13, 2014 - Executive Com-
blessed 93rd birthday. as Portfolio Metrics Since Inception;
mittee at 9:00 am until conclusion and
Trailing Reinvestment; Annuity Average
Saturday, November 8, 2014 - Fall
Credited Rate and Balance; Gross Mar-
Board meeting/Reorganization Meeting
gin; Investment Quality Distribution;
(Bond audit Friday, November 7, 2014).
Sector Distribution; Municipal Distribu-
AFA Conference tion; Municipal Distribution by State;
Last month the Executive Officers, Projected Forward Cash Flow; Purchases;
including myself, and several Directors Treasuries and a final Commentary.
attended the American Fraternal Sales & Marketing Director Greg Did you know............
Alliance Annual Meeting in Austin, TX. Felton presented the Sales Directors That in the late 1700’s, many
This meeting focused on Millennials Report highlighting: 2014 Second houses consisted of a large room with
and how to attract them to become Quarter Sales Recap; Quarterly compar- only one chair. Commonly, a long
active members in the fraternal benefit ison year to year for Policies; New wooden board folded down from the
system. Information gained during ses- Members and Premium; Comparison of wall, and was used for dining. The
sions will be studied to determine how the last 10 quarters for Policies; New ‘head of the household’ always sat in
we can better serve and involve our Members and Premium; NSS Member- the chair while everyone else ate sitting
youth. ship and Agents;. on the floor. Occasionally a guest, who
Fraternal Report - The report of the was usually a man, would be invited to
Fraternal Activities Coordinator Pam sit in this chair during a meal. To sit in
Blum provided information on the the chair meant you were important
2014 National Golf Tournament and
Convention Board the PVR Scholarships granted or re-
and in charge. They called the one sit-
ting in the chair the “chair .” Today in
Meeting Recap newed or 2014.
The Actuarial Report - The report of
business, we use the expression or title
‘Chairman’ or ‘Chairman of the Board.’
Members of the Board of Directors the Actuary was presented by Robert E. Well, our next board meeting should
met on Friday, June 20, 2014 at the Bruce, Bruce & Bruce Co, LLC be really interesting. I wonder how
Hershey Lodge, Hershey, PA. All mem- CPA Report - The Overview of 2013 many of us will not be able to get up
bers of the board were in attendance 1st quarter of 2014 was presented by from the floor!
along with Asset Manager Larry White, CPA Donald Reddinger, Reddinger,
Sales Director Greg Felton, Actuary Will, Gallagher & Dickert, LLC.
Robert Bruce, Actuary Grant Hemphill, Legal Advisor Report - The report of
CPA Donald Reddinger and CPA Joseph our legal advisor was presented by NSS
Dickert. Legal Counsel P. Ronald Cooper.
Investments and mortgages were re- Committees met to discuss
viewed and ratified as was an Internet company business. They will report
vote to hold rates for the 2nd Quarter back to the Board at a later time in the
2014. meeting.
6 N AT I O N A L S L O V A K S O C I E T Y N E W S OCTOBER 201462101NSSNatlNwsOct14_Layout 1 9/11/14 3:31 PM Page 8
Financial Matters
2014 2ND QUARTER ANNUAL REPORT - NATIONAL SLOVAK SOCIETY
Net Admitted Assets: Summary Of Operations:
June December June December
2014 2013 2014 2013
Bonds $734,192,406 $696,070,146 INCOME:
Preferred Stocks 539,999 587,999 Premiums & Annuity
Common Stocks 746,768 925,776 Considerations $58,869,142 $103,185,441
Mortgage Loans on Net Invest. Income 18,376,484 33,995,892
Real Estate 8,880,648 8,821,721 Amortization Of Interest
Certificate Loans 512,091 432,546 Maintenance Reserve 88,203 (237,101)
Real Estate Occupied
Income Sub-Total $77,333,829 $136,944,232
By Society 777,061 787,739
Cash On Deposit 10,727,174 11,018,128
Electronic Data Equipment 0 0
June December
Uncollected Premiums 120,965 120,965
2014 2013
Investment Income Due 9,264,800 8,858,510
EXPENSES:
TOTALS $765,761,912 $727,623,530 Death Benefits $591,499 $1,460,334
Matured Endowments 16,302 71,677
Liabilities and Unassigned Funds: Annuity Benefits 35,777,937 61,849,026
June December Disability, Accident,
2014 2013 Health Benefits 0 3,437
Aggregate Reserve $690,224,000 $658,141,000 Surrender Benefits 1,405,849 2,668,062
Deposit-type Interest On Deposit
Contracts 40,193,993 37,906,018 Type Contracts 7,455 85,417
Certificate Claims 300,000 300,000 Increase In Aggregate
Commissions Due 401,200 290,000 Reserve For Life
Refunds Due and Unpaid 325,000 325,000 Contracts 32,083,000 59,099,740
General Expenses Due 1,468,500 1,429,500 Commissions On
Retained By The Society Direct Business 1,548,314 3,099,628
As Trustee 92,669 243,509 General &
Asset Valuation Fraternal Expenses 1,772,952 3,876,685
Reserve (AVR) 3,284,500 3,038,000 Insurance, Taxes,
Interest Maintenance Licenses, Fees 180,757 119,343
Reserve (IMR) 4,852,272 4,754,665 Expense Sub-Total $73,384,065 $132,333,349
Contingency Reserve 150,000 150,000
Unassigned Funds 24,598,978 21,045,838
TOTALS $765,761,912 $727,623,530 June December
2014 2013
SUMMARY:
Surplus Account: Net Gain From Operations
June December Before Refunds
2014 2013 To Members $3,949,764 $4,610,883
Beginning Surplus $21,195,838 $17,530,350 Refund To Members (147,095) (346,212)
Net Income 3,782,764 4,213,271 Net Gain From Operations
Change in Net Unrealized After Refunds
Capital Gains or (Losses) 16,876 22,029 To Members 3,802,669 4,264,671
Chge in Nonadmitted Assets 0 184,188 Net Realized
Change in Valuation Capital Gains (19,905) (51,400)
Reserve (246,500) (754,000) Total Net Income $3,782,764 $4,213,271
Aggregate Write-ins for Gains
and Losses in Surplus 0 0 Linda M Strom
Net Change In Surplus 3,553,140 3,665,488 National Secretary/Treasurer
Surplus At Statement Date $24,748,978 $21,195,838
N AT I O N A L S L O V A K S O C I E T Y N E W S OCTOBER 2014 762101NSSNatlNwsOct14_Layout 1 9/11/14 3:31 PM Page 9
National Slovak Society News
Fall Board Meeting in November PVR SCHOLARSHIP
In compliance with Article 6, items F & H, of the By-Laws, the National Assembly
shall meet on:
FUND DONATIONS
August, 2014
Saturday – Sunday, November 8 – 9, 2014 In Memory of Deceased Members of
9:00 a.m. Assembly L075:
NSS Home Office From Assembly L075 100.00
351 Valley Brook Rd In Memory of Officers & Members of
McMurray PA 15317 Region 2:
From Region 2 100.00
All members of the National Assembly including David Blazek, National President, In Memory of Deceased Officers &
Linda Strom, National Secretary/Treasurer, National Directors: Alan Burns, Michael Members of Assembly 617/C617:
Czarney, Andrea Garbon, Keith Godor, Abigail Gross, Robert Katricak, Susan Ondrejco, From Assembly 617/C617 500.00
Joseph Stefka, Jr, and Andrew Wesnak as well as Legal Advisor Ronald Cooper, shall In Memory of Andrew & Anna Krupa,
attend this meeting. John & Mary Krisanda:
At this meeting, all matters relevant to the welfare and best interest of the Society From George & Rose Mary
that fall into the Scope of the By-Laws as they appear to the National Assembly shall Strish 50.00
be acted upon. In Memory of Godson & Nephew,
Kevin Semelsberger: 100.00
In Memory of David, Joseph Sr., Debbie &
Katherine Stefka:
From Joe & Annette Stefka 100.00
Donations:
NSS 2014 Golf Outing 1,854.78
Randy & Sue Zaleski 75.00
2014 Convention Assembly
DONATE TO THE PVR SCHOLARSHIP FUND & Delegates 3,723.00
Dean Burns 100.00
Here are four good reasons why making a donation makes sense... Matching Funds from
Region 5 123.00
• Every penny donated goes directly into the PVR Scholarship Fund. Assembly R019 100.00
• Your contribution will help our young members achieve their academic goals.
• Your donation may benefit your own son, daughter, niece or nephew.
• Every year, requests for grants increase, making more demands on the PVR LEAF DONATIONS
Scholarship Fund. August, 2014
❏ YES, I want to help our young members attain their academic goals. In Memory of Stephen Lukas, Assembly
Here is my donation of $ ________ 0617:
Name: From John & Stephanie
Assembly: Kurilla 250.00
Address: In Honor of Officers/Members
of Assembly 0110: 250.00
City:
State:
Zip: ACORN
Please issue your check to:
DONATIONS
NSS PVR Scholarship Fund August, 2014
And send to:
In Memory of Alvin S Jancisin, A good
National Slovak Society Slovak man:
351 Valley Brook Road From the Jancisin Family 1,000.00
McMurray, PA 15317 Donation from our friends at
Riallus: 1,000.00
8 N AT I O N A L S L O V A K S O C I E T Y N E W S OCTOBER 201462101NSSNatlNwsOct14_Layout 1 9/11/14 3:31 PM Page 10
National Slovak Society News
All Saints Day in Slovakia, as well as
Fraternal Matters... many other Slavic countries, is a highly
Ornament Contest
By: Pam Blum celebrated holy day. Throughout the As I write this article (in September)
Fraternal Activities Coordinator entire weekend, Slovak families travel I can NOT believe I’m addressing the
Email: pblum@nsslife.org across the country to visit cemeteries Christmas Ornament Contest. I am one
where their deceased family members of those people that Christmas tends to
are located. Cemeteries overflow with sneak up on every year. So, with that
flowers and thousands and thousands being said, we’re giving you plenty of
of candles are lit and placed on the time to get your “crafty” on and submit
graves. Families take time to meet an ornament. Rules about the contest
together and take care of their family can be found elsewhere in this publica-
members' gravesites. Because some tion. (Note – Please only submit original hand-
families must travel to multiple ceme- made ornaments not ones made from “kits”.)
teries across large areas of Slovakia,
October’s the month
this begins taking place on Friday and
Autumn is the perfect time to take ac- When the smallest breeze
doesn't end until late Sunday night,
count of what we’ve done, what we Gives us a shower
when the actual observance of All
didn’t do, and what we’d like to do Of autumn leaves.
Saints takes place. Virtually all Slovaks
next year. ~Author Unknown Bonfires and pumpkins,
travel to their local cemetery late on
Leaves sailing down —
Sunday night to pay respects and light
October is red
candles.
And golden and brown.
Trick or Treat
NSS has a supply of Halloween -Author Unknown
Trick or Treat bags available.If your
assembly or organization is having a Poetry Contest
Halloween party and need bags for the Congratulations to the 2014 Poetry Contest winners listed below. What an awesome
ghosts and goblins to collect their job each and every one of you did on your poems. This year we had a total of 35
goodies give me a call or email me at entries. The first place winners will be published in next month’s edition of the
pblum@nsslife.org National News. I want to thank everyone for their continued participation in our
fraternal contests and I encourage your participation again next year.
A Bit of Halloween
History
Evolving from the ancient Celtic 2013 Poetry Contest Winners
holiday of Samhain, modern Halloween
Keats - Ages 5-7
has become less about literal ghosts
First Place: Abigail Herbster Assembly C434
and ghouls and more about costumes
Second Place: Cody Hamilton Assembly C731
and candy. The Celts used the day to
Third Place: Allie Lazar Assembly C075
mark the end of the harvest season
and the beginning of winter, and also
Angelou - Ages 8-10
believed that this transition between
First Place: Ben Ostrowski Assembly C617
the seasons was a bridge to the world
Second Place: Tyler Hamilton Assembly C731
of the dead. Over time the holiday has
Third Place: Valentina Gulino Assembly C039
transitioned from a somber pagan ritual
to a day of merriment, costumes,
parades and sweet treats for children Frost - Ages 11-13
and adults. First Place: Meghan Jezik Assembly C299
Second Place: Casey Lako Assembly C039
Third Place: Giavanna Gulino Assembly C039
Halloween in Slovakia -
NOT Shakespeare - Ages 14-16
First Place: Katherine Ostrowski Assembly C617
In Slovakia Halloween is not cele- Second Place: Caly Farrell Assembly C813
brated. Instead, on the first day of Third Place: Charles Boone Assembly C161
November, All Saints Day is celebrated.
N AT I O N A L S L O V A K S O C I E T Y N E W S OCTOBER 2014 962101NSSNatlNwsOct14_Layout 1 9/11/14 3:31 PM Page 11
NSS Financial Matters
At NSS Life we have a plan that fits your needs!
Current Interest Rates
Did you know.... Effective January 1, 2013
Preferred Choice 1.00%
Optimum 3 2.00%
You could make an additional
Preferred 5 3.00%
deposit to almost any Annuity
Preferred 8 3.50%
with NSS-just send us a check.
Any additional funds will not
*Preferred 7 and Flex earning 4%, these plans are no longer available.
increase the time period on Please contact your NSS Life financial service representative or
Joe Elliott in the Home Office at 1-800-488-1890.
early withdrawal penalties.
Advantages of an NSS Annuity/IRA
• Competitive interest rates
• Guaranteed minimum interest rate
• Tax-deferred earnings
• Avoids Probate
• Liquidity/Withdrawal features
• Flexible retirement income options
• No sales charges or fees
10 N AT I O N A L S L O V A K S O C I E T Y N E W S OCTOBER 201462101NSSNatlNwsOct14_Layout 1 9/11/14 3:31 PM Page 12
NSS Sales Department
From the Sales The Recommender Program
Department... Earlier this year NSS upgraded the recommender program. This is a frater-
nal referral system. If a member recommends someone for membership
By Greg Felton, CLU, ChFC in NSS and that person buys a product and becomes a member then
we will send you a check for $25. It is as simple as that!
National Sales Director
Your family and friends should belong to a great organization. Don’t
let us be the best kept secret in the insurance industry. Tell everyone
about us – we offer great products and rates. We have complimen-
tary (fraternal) benefits that include: Scholarships (worth up to
$2,000), golf & bowling tournaments, contests, publications, a
CD’s Maturing in Heritage Museum and more.
Use the form on the back cover and let’s help others share in the
October? NSS experience.
Believe it or not, October is one of
the biggest months for CD’s to renew. It
probably has something to do with IRA Twenty Pay Life
season in April and many people use to This permanent plan of insurance has been offered to consumers by insurance
buy a six month CD. That would make companies for almost fifty years. This plan is a variation of whole life insurance and
October the renewal month. If you are was originally designed for people in their 30’s or 40’s that wanted to have their in-
one of the lucky ones getting a renewal surance paid up at or near retirement age. Today it is used for both young and old.
notice from your local bank or credit This plan runs a little more money that whole life but here are the advantages: paid-
union please look at the notice care- up after twenty years, higher cash or loan values, dividends, and options should you
fully. You will have between 7 to 10 discontinue making payments. For young people this plan can help you save some
days to decide if you would like to money towards college expenses. For middle aged people the plan provides paid-up
renew? Then look at the interest rate. insurance at a time when you are trying to minimize your costs. And finally for older
You may be surprised to find rates of purchasers the twenty pay life generates greater residual values. If you would like to
.25, .50 but certainly less than 1.0% see how this plan can perform for you – please call your local NSS representative or
interest. Joe Elliott in the Home office. We would be happy to get you an illustration so you
With rates this low perhaps it is time can see how this plan could work for you.
to consider moving the money to NSS.
We have several annuity options: 2014 2nd Quarter Sales Leaders
The one year plan (Preferred Choice)
is paying 1% interest Congratulations to our two top producers for their hard work and dedication to the
The three year plan (Optimum 3) is Society.
paying 2.0% interest
The Preferred 5 is currently paying Our top producer for the second quarter of 2014 for the MOST
3.00% interest NEW MEMBERS is Bill DelMonaco. Bill lives in Corapolis, PA. Bill
The Preferred 8 is currently paying has been in business for more than 30 years and with NSS for
3.50% interest 20 years. Bill is well versed in all the latest products and ideas.
He is a great planner and you can trust him to help you with all
Annuities provide tax deferred in-
your insurance needs. You can reach Bill by phone at 412-264-
come, strong guarantees and are
7268.
backed by reserves which are required
by law. Stop letting the bank make
money on your money – start earning a
Our top PREMIUM PRODUCER for the second
better rate today.
quarter is Howard C. Bluhm MSFS, ChFC of Maumee, OH.
For more information please contact
Howard has been in the insurance profession for 36 years and
your local NSS representative or Joe
is a 35 year life and qualifying member of the Million Dollar
Elliott in the Home Office.
Round Table. Howard has been married for 37 years to his
college sweetheart, Karen. They have been blessed with 2
Thought for the Month children – Andrea & Brian and a daughter-in-law, Betsy and
No one can cheat you out of your ultimate grandchildren. To contact Howard, please call his office at 419-
success except yourself. 893-2233 or email him at hcbluhm@bex.net.
Ralph Waldo Emerson (1803-1882)
N AT I O N A L S L O V A K S O C I E T Y N E W S OCTOBER 2014 1162101NSSNatlNwsOct14_Layout 1 9/11/14 3:31 PM Page 13
Assembly News
Don’t forget about the NSS Christ- who comes up with this stuff.
ASSEMBLY R059 mas Ornament Contest for members of We also celebrate Columbus Day this
Whitehall, PA all ages. The rules and regulations can month. Now there’s a guy who knew
A Matching Fund Project and meet- be found on the website at nssslife.org. where he wanted to go but all he got was
ing will be held on Sunday, October The deadline for your entry is Decem- the Capitol of Ohio named after him.
26, 2014 after the Divine Liturgy at St. ber 1st. Make it a family affair!! Watch Please remember in your thoughts
Nicholas Orthodox Church, Bethlehem out for those little children out there and prayers our members who may be
PA. A hot dog luncheon will be served “trick n’ treating” for Halloween!!! ill or going through some rough times.
for the Soup Kitchen in Allentown that John Payerchin Perhaps it will comfort them to know
we support. If in need of directions, President they are not forgotten.
please call Nancy at 610-266-7346. Bill Knoll
President
The entire month of November, we
will be holding a can collection for a
local food bank. It will be in conjunction ASSEMBLY L075
with Assembly L102 for Region 14.
Nancy A Sabol
Duryea, PA
Secretary Our last meeting for the year will be
held on Sunday, October 19th at 1:00
p.m. at the Grande Restaurant Birney
Avenue, Moosic, PA to nominate and ASSEMBLY 160
elect officers for 2015-2016. For more
Lorain, OH
ASSEMBLY 039 information contact Lehrae Edwards at
570-457-8402. United Slovak Societies will host a
Uniontown, PA Lehrae Edwards Children's Halloween Costume Bowling
Secretary Party for ages 16 and under on Sunday
“Win a 32” HDTV” October 26th, 2014 at the American
Start making plans to attend our Slovak Club 2915 Broadway Avenue,
Annual Christmas Party that will be Lorain, Ohio at 1:00 p.m. The party is
held on Sunday, December 7th at the for members and children of members
Knights of Columbus social hall, North ASSEMBLY 123 of SCS wr. 111, FCSU br. 228, FCSLA
Gallatin Avenue Extension, Uniontown, Pittsburgh, PA br. 114, NSS a. 160 and LPSCU br. 77.
PA at 2:00 p.m. A lucky attendee will All children must be signed up by
go home with a 32” HDTV. There will On Friday, October 24th at 9:30 October 17th at the Club or contact,
be plenty of door prizes, a special Chi- a.m. we will be volunteering at the slovenska.hviezda@hotmail.com.
arship Fund and giveaways. Come If you would like to help out for two Robert Katricak
enjoy a FREE delicious catered dinner hours of sorting and packing clothes Secretary
and the fraternal fellowship. please give a call to Mary Maniecki,
Congratulations to assembly youth 412-264-3546. She will give you all
members: Vincent Agostini (Indiana the details and directions. Afterwards
University of PA) and Stevie Nemetz we will have lunch and hold a business
(Duquesne University) on being meeting.
awarded first year scholarships from The Slavs call October the yellow ASSEMBLY 432
month, obviously because of the chang-
the NSS Scholarship Program Great
ing of the color of the leaves. We here
Fairview Park, OH
job!!!! We are proud of you!!!
in Western Pennsylvania are blessed A meeting will be held on Tuesday,
For those interested in Slovak her-
with an abundance of beautiful color. October 21, 2014 at the home of Ed
itage, the 24th Annual Slovak Heritage
Enjoy the display; it is Mother Nature’s and Carole Koches, 20669 Spruce
Festival will be held in the Commons
wondrous gift to us. Drive, Strongsville, OH at 7:30 p.m.
Room of the Cathedral of Learning on
October can also be a food lover’s We hope to see you there.
the University of Pittsburgh Campus.
delight. It is National Cookie month, Our Christmas meeting will be held
There will be lectures on Slovak history,
National Chili Month National Pizza on Tuesday, December 16, 2014.
Slovak related displays, ethnic food,
Month, National Dessert Month, Na- Location of the meeting TBD.
folk vendors, etc. Admission is FREE!
tional Popcorn Month and also Na- Shawn Pytel
Come and enjoy your Slovak heritage at
tional Seafood Month. I want to know Publicist
PITT.
12 N AT I O N A L S L O V A K S O C I E T Y N E W S OCTOBER 201462101NSSNatlNwsOct14_Layout 1 9/11/14 3:31 PM Page 14
Assembly News
ASSEMBLY 554 ASSEMBLY 588 REGION 2
Curwensville, PA Slovan, PA Hazelton, PA
Meetings will be held on October Fraternal Night A meeting/luncheon will be held
5th and November 7, 2014 at the Old Schoolhouse Players
for members of Region 2, including
home of Jim Stricek, 135 McCullough Assembly 588 is sponsoring a frater- Assembly 0617, Assembly 0146 and
St., DuBois, PA at 2:00 p.m. nal night at the Mount Pleasant Town- 0075 on Saturday, October 25, 2014,
Jim Stricek ship Community Center in Hickory, at the Grotto Pizza, Route 11, Ed-
Secretary Pennsylvania to watch the Old School- wardsville, PA at 12:30 p.m. Region
house Players perform the Agatha business will be discussed before the
Christie thriller, The Mousetrap. Any luncheon.
member of Assembly 588 interested in All members are invited to join us
attending The Mousetrap on Saturday, but reservations are required. Phone
October 11, 2014 at 7:30 p.m., Rose Mary at 570-825-3681 by Octo-
should contact Annette Stefka at 724- ber 21st with your reservation.
947-9471 by October 7, 2014, to re- Rose Mary Strish
serve a ticket. Assembly 588 will Secretary
provide a ticket free of charge to any
Assembly 588 member wishing to at-
ASSEMBLY 586
tend the performance. The Assembly
has reserved a limited number of tick-
REGION 5
ets for the musical. Tickets will be Pittsburgh, PA
Chicago, IL available on a first call basis. Remem-
Meeting Date Change
The new Assembly 586 will meet on ber – one ticket per member. Don’t for-
Sunday, October 26, 2014 tentatively get to call prior to the deadline of The fall meeting of Region 5 origi-
at Hackney's in Palos Park, IL. More December 6th to reserve your ticket. Join nally scheduled for Sunday, October
details to follow. us for a great night of theater and fra- 12, 2014, will be held on Sunday,
At this time we'd like to announce ternal fun in Hickory, Pennsylvania on October 19, 2014, at 1:00 p.m. at the
our Matching Funds Project, the annual October 11th. NSS Home Office in McMurray, PA. All
Stedraky Christmas Luncheon, to be assemblies in Region 5 are requested
Annette Stefka
held on Thursday, December 11th, at to send representatives to the meeting.
Recording Secretary
Sts. Peter & Paul Lutheran Church, 31 A luncheon will be served following the
Street and DesPlaines Avenue, River- meeting.
side, IL. Assembly 586 members can Joseph Stefka, Jr.
attend and partake of the excellent Slo- President
vak meal at no charge; guest cost is
$15. Tickets will NOT be sold at the
door and the final date for reservations REGION 8
is Sunday, December 7th (Remember
Pearl Harbor!) Please call Millie Cleveland, OH
Mendel at 708-387-7244 to make ASSEMBLY 737 The semi-annual meeting of Region
reservations for yourselves and your 8 will be hosted by Assembly 160 on:
guests. Westmoreland County, PA DATE: October 15, 2014
We will also celebrate Christmas a A meeting will be held on October TIME: 7:30 p.m.
little early at our yearly Christmas party 18, 2014 at the home of Paul J. LOCATION: American Slovak Club
on Sunday, November 30th, at Bo- Godor, 9280 Clubview Drive, North 2915 Broadway
hemian Garden Restaurant in Downers Huntingdon, PA at 1:00 p.m. Lorain, Ohio 44055
Grove at 1:00 p.m. All assembly business will be dis- A review of the NSS Convention
Janet Tomaskovic cussed at this time. 2014 will be dicussed, and we will have
Secretary All members are urged to attend. election of officers for 2015-2016.
Paul J Godor Hope to see everyone there.
Treasurer Carole Koches
Secretary
N AT I O N A L S L O V A K S O C I E T Y N E W S OCTOBER 2014 1362101NSSNatlNwsOct14_Layout 1 9/11/14 4:00 PM Page 15
Assembly News
Assembly 588/C588 Christmas Oplatky
Matching Funds Project
Members of Assembly 588 and Circle 588 recently completed a successful
2014
Matching Funds Project for the Avella Area Library Center. The Avella Area Library Oplatky, the traditional Slovak
Center serves the Avella School District, West Middletown Boro, Cross Creek Town- Christmas wafers, will be available this
ship, Hopewell Township, and Independence Township. The Matching Funds Project holiday season from Jankola Library.
took place during the months of June and July and included donation collections and Orders will be accepted from October
a basket raffle. The assembly and circle raised a total of $400 and the NSS Home 20 until December 19, 2014.
Office matched the amount for a total of $800 to help defray the costs of the Avella The Oplatky, five in one package are
Area Library Center’s summer reading program, “Fizz, Boom, Read.” The science thermal-sealed and can be purchased
based program was well attended with sixty-five participants. The donation was for $4.00. In addition, the minimum
greatly appreciated by the Director of the Avella Area Library Center, Melissa Pirillo cost of shipping and handling is $5.75
Ansell and the children that benefited from the successful summer reading program. and upwards depending upon the num-
ber of packets ordered and the rising
costs of priority mailing. Customized
requests can be filled to meet your
needs. Payment to Jankola Library is
expected before receiving an order.
For more information or to place an
order contact Sister Catherine Labouré
Bresnock, SS.C.M. at 570-275-5606
or write to:
Jankola Library and Slovak Museum
580 Railroad Street
Villa Sacred Heart
Danville, PA 17821-1698
Summer Reading Program Participants and Presentation of the Matching Funds Checks: (L-R)
Assembly 588 Activity Director/Eldress Joseph Stefka, Jr., Financial Secretary Assembly
conducting the Basket Raffle Drawing: (L-R) 588; John Bebo, Jr., President Assembly 588;
Maddie Ansell, Florence Bebo Assembly 588 Melissa Pirillo Ansell, Avella Area Library Center
Activity Director/Eldress, Cassie Maidmont, and
Owen Breide.
Director; Annette Stefka, Recording Secretary
Assembly 588.
Visit our website at
www.nsslife.org
Deadline For
Joe & Irene Tomaskovic Publication Christmas Eve Dinner
Please be advised that all
United Slovak Societies will host a
Celebrated 64th
articles, notices, etc., MUST BE
Vilija, traditional Slovak Christmas Eve
received by the Home Office
dinner, on Sunday, December 7th,
Wedding Anniversary 2014 at the American Slovak Club,
Congratulations to Joseph and Irene No Later Than The 5th Of The 2915 Broadway Avenue, Lorain, Ohio
Preceding Month. Every effort
Tomaskovic on celebrating their 64th at 5:30 p.m. The cost of dinner which
will be made to publish the
wedding Anniversary on September includes the award winning Ladies
article in a timely manner. Also,
17th, 2014. Auxiliary perch is $20.00 and will in-
all articles should be typewrit-
Joe is an Honorary Officer of the clude all the traditional delights.
NSS and his wife Irene are both life Advanced tickets sales please con-
time and active members of Assembly ten in regular type and original tact Len Zilko at 440/988-3236. The
photos submitted. Home Office
0586. dinner is open to the public.
Phone Number 724-731-0094
Best wishes for good health and Michele Mager
many more anniversaries in the years Secretary
to come. United Slovak Societies
14 N AT I O N A L S L O V A K S O C I E T Y N E W S OCTOBER 201462101NSSNatlNwsOct14_Layout 1 9/11/14 4:01 PM Page 16
Assembly News
My Slovakia Tour Scenes from A-0110
My wife and I experienced a once in a lifetime opportunity to visit the beautiful Members of our assembly enjoyed
country of Slovakia; the home of my ancestors. Our trip took place from July 7, to themselves at our Bi-annual Weekend
July 21, 2014. The trip was my 2013 Christmas present from my wife; who said Outing held in June at the Villa Roma
Santa does not exist? We had 27 people in our tour from all over the U.S. The people Resort, Callicoon, New York.
were fun to be with and feel new friendships are in the works. The tour was arranged
through Adventure International and was escorted by Jim and Kay Bench. They were
fun to be with, knowledgeable, experienced, related well to the tours purpose, knew
Slovakia and its people, and on and on. Enough good things cannot be said of Jim
and Kay, and what impressed me the most was Jim's sincerity in his professed love
for the country of Slovakia and its people.
Front Row: Veronica DeSanctis, Lauren De-
Our local tour guide was a lovely lady, Viera Marecova. She was our historian,
Sanctis, John Malik, Martin Voda, Marianne
translator, and expert on Slovakia. Viera did an incredible job and really made the Malik. Standing: Richard Malik, John Grymes,
time enjoyable. Viera, Jim, and Kay were also very professional in developing our Irene Grymes, Diane Voda, Brendan Philbin,
schedule of activities and in providing a variety of things so that everyone's interests Carol Martin, Patrick Philibin an Ken Martin.
could best be served. Every detail was covered including the selection of our bus
driver, Arne. He was great, funny, very serving, and a talented driver. Our trip was or- Carol Martin,
Brendan Philibin and
ganized, interesting, fun filled, educational, and covered pretty much all aspects of
Patrick Philbin
Slovak life. We cannot forget to mention Mona of New Jersey and her love of Chick- having a blast!
ens, living, and otherwise. So many things happened during the two weeks from hav-
ing a state dinner and sitting next to the Slovakian Director of Interior to the raft trip.
I found Slovakia to be phenomenal and intriguing. All Slovak officers should visit Slo-
vakia and learn firsthand what a great country their organization represents. More to
follow. Thank You,
Donald Kolecky Sr.
John Malik, Alianna Malik, Richard Malik, Carolyn
Malik, and RJ Malik.
24th Annual Happy Birthday to our Members
Slovak Heritage Festival
Sunday, November 2, 2014
1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.
University of Pittsburgh (Oakland)
Cathedral of Learning Commons Room
Free Admission
Musical Performers - Jozef Ivas'ka from
Slovakia, The Revil&ak Family of Bardejov,
Slovakia, Pittsburgh Slovakians, PAS (Pittsburgh
Area Slovaks), Slavjane Folk Ensemble, Ben
Sorenson on Fujara and others!
Featuring- Cultural Displays, Lectures Birthday wishes to Marie Palko,
Shop for Christmas - Slovak and East European
Agnes Knoll surrounded by her fam-
ily as she celebrates her 95th birthday. member of Assembly 0108 who will
import vendos.
All are members of Assembly 0123. celebrate her 93rd birthday on October
Ethnic Food (klobaa, halus'ky, holupki, pirohy, and
Best wishes for good health through- 14, 2014.
pastries
out the year. Marie is a life long member and the
(Please donate cookies or pastries in support of this won-
derful FREE festival. Bring them to the pastry table in the mother of our Secretary/Treasurer, Linda
Commons Rooms) Strom.
For more information, call Christine Metil at May this year be filled with good
412-624-5906 health and happiness.
N AT I O N A L S L O V A K S O C I E T Y N E W S OCTOBER 2014 1562101NSSNatlNwsOct14_Layout 1 9/11/14 3:31 PM Page 17
Assembly News
SCHOLARSHIP FOR
SENIOR MEMBERS OUR DEPARTED MEMBERS
A Fraternal Program August, 2014
PURPOSE ~
Name City and State Date of Death Assembly
To encourage our older members to
continue their education and to make
fuller use of their leisure time. Allen, Billy G Fort Wayne, IN 08/07/2014 0065
MEMBER ELIGIBILITY ~ Avers, Elizabeth Woodville, OH 05/29/2014 0595
Any life insurance or annuity member, Blaha, Thomas J Pittsburgh, PA 07/20/2014 0700
fifty-five (55) years or older, who has Bob, John S Stratford, CT 07/17/2014 L002
enrolled and successfully completed a Bodnar, Robert L Holton, MI 03/02/2013 0381
continuing education or adult educa- Braskich, John M Parma, OH 08/09/2014 0070
tion course. Members may submit up Byrd, Linda D Washington, PA 07/06/2014 0588
to two (2) applications in one calendar Canterberry, Ethel P Charleston, WV 05/09/2014 0774
year.
Critchfield, Ronald W Little Elm, TX 07/02/2014 0737
COURSE ELIGIBILITY ~ Fucci, Lydia A Palm Harbor, FL 06/09/2014 0813
Vocational schools, community colleges Gerba, Steven J Philadelphia, PA 08/09/2014 R059
and universities offer a variety of short- Golling, Rudolph Pittsburgh, PA 08/16/2014 0434
term courses which may include areas Haynick, Albert Parma, OH 07/07/2014 0070
like computer training, cake decorat-
Krell, Arlene Little Falls, NY 07/08/2014 P31M
ing, photography, landscaping, small
engine repair, ballroom dancing, etc. Lake, Mary A Uniontown, PA 07/08/2014 0039
This program does not cover courses Lucker, Devera B Pittsburgh, PA 02/10/2014 L105
that assist you to maintain your current Luzader, Josie Sutton, WV 07/09/2014 0774
full or part-time job. (Example: We will Lyon, Gale W Winston Salem, NC 03/25/2014 0774
not reimburse life insurance or real es- Myers, Helen South Charleston, WV 07/23/2014 0809
tate agents who take continuing educa- Negich, Ann M Delmont, PA 07/29/2014 0737
tion credits to maintain their licenses.)
Peters, Mary Dorothy Indiana, PA 04/29/2014 0038
PROCEDURE ~ Prokopeak Jr., Joseph M Chicago, IL 07/08/2014 0065
Members should enroll and pay for the Racht, Robert Kenneth Mayfield, PA 08/12/2014 L075
course of their choice. Once member Robinson, Lorraine S Shoreview, MN 08/13/2014 0774
has finished the class, they must sub- Rop, Loretta Muskegon, MI 07/01/2014 0381
mit an application, along with verifica-
Rosinski, Richard Glenwood, IL 11/08/2013 0065
tion that the class was successfully
completed, to the Home Office for Sarachman, Grace C McKees Rock, PA 07/20/2014 0283
approval by a National Officer. If the Sasko, Lillian E Arnold, MD 07/18/2014 0377
scholarship application is approved, Shannon, James R Everson, PA 08/08/2014 0039
the NSS will reimburse one-half (1/2) Slater, Mary J Barboursville, WV 07/31/2014 0809
of the tuition for the course up to, but Sonoga, Wilma Auburn, AL 07/16/2014 0377
not to exceed, one hundred dollars. Teck, George Canfield, OH 07/14/2014 0731
INFORMATION & APPLICATION ~ Thompson, Vellie J Shelby, NC 01/27/2014 0774
For an application or additional infor- Tusack, Bernard J Pittsburgh, PA 06/10/2014 0283
mation on this NSS Scholarship for Venanzi, LaDonna Monongahela, PA 06/18/2014 0377
Seniors Fraternal Program, contact the
National Slovak Society Home Office
at 1-800-488-1890. The National
Officers are the sole authority in any
decisions regarding this scholarship
program. Their decision is final in all
cases.
16 N AT I O N A L S L O V A K S O C I E T Y N E W S OCTOBER 201462101NSSNatlNwsOct14_Layout 1 9/11/14 3:31 PM Page 18
Národné Noviny
N AT I O N A L S L O V A K S O C I E T Y N E W S OCTOBER 2014 1762101NSSNatlNwsOct14_Layout 1 9/11/14 3:31 PM Page 19
National Slovak Society News
have a fireplace, make sure the chim-
Letters of Appreciation ney is swept.
You'll need to inspect and clean out
Dear Mr. Blazek, Dear NSS, the gutters. It's a chore you may want
Thank you so much for granting me I am writing to thank you for your to hand off to a local handyman, partic-
the PVR Scholarship. It is very much generous award of the PVR Scholar- ularly since it will need to be repeated
appreciated and I will put it to good ship. I am just beginning my graduate several times while leaves are falling.
use at Duquesne University’s Mary work in the Fall, with the hopes of be- While you are at it, check the garden
Pappert School of Music. coming an English teacher. This schol- hose connections and drain any stand-
Stevie Nemetz arship will be a great help to me in ing water from pipes leading to outdoor
pursuing my goals! Thank you very faucets that might freeze during a cold
Dear Mr. Blazek, much. snap.
Thank you so much for awarding me Logan Mahlum
the PVR Scholarship. It is very gener- Home for the holidays
ous of you and I will be using it to pay Dear PVR Scholarship Committee, It's autumn and you have all those
for my books for college which is a This yea I will enter my senior year holidays to get ready for - Halloween,
huge help. Every penny counts when it at the Virginia Military Institute. I am Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, Christmas
comes to school! looking forward to graduation in May, and the New Year celebration. So, take
College is a wonderful opportunity 2015 with a B.S. in Biology with a a deep breath and start planning now.
and I absolutely love being able to concentration in Ecology, Conservation, Even the most crotchety among us is
attend Mercyhurst University and to and Organismal Sciences as well as a apt to smile a little more at this time of
experience college. I am majoring in minor in Pscology. I want to thank you the year, especially if you are a grand-
Strategic and Visual Communications for your continued support of my edu- parent.
and I am already a junior. Thank you so cation. By all the estimates, Halloween is
much. Cadet Garrett Parsons the second most popular holiday in the
Allison Williams U.S. Maybe it is because, like Christ-
mas, the most popular of seasonal cel-
ebrations, it's all about the kids. So,
Dear PVR Scholarship Committee, help the youngsters have the best of
Thank you so much for the check times by showing them how to carve a
from the PVR Scholarship Fund. It is grimacing pumpkin or coming up with
such a help for my monetary hardship a few costume ideas that they can
for my tuition from Marywood Univer- make themselves with a little help from
sity. It is most appreciated. you-even if it is an old bed sheet with
Joseph Gorgol eye holes cut out.
Dear Sir,
From the Home Thanksgiving is a solemn time for
families big and small, a time to hug the
Thank you for the check sent to Fall chores children and give them a sense of be-
Saint Vincent College to be applied to People will be spending more time longing. But, there are too many lonely
the account of Mitchell Farrell. indoors as autumn and winter approach hearts out there-people you may know
Saint Vincent College appreciates and many of us are apt to get the no- who, for one reason or another, are
and encourages the efforts of private tion of "fixing up the place." Perhaps alone. Invite them to share your turkey
and corporate agencies to alleviate the the living room can use a new coat of this year in the spirit of the holiday.
financial burdens of young men and paint or those curtains in the bedroom Meanwhile, it's never too early to
women who are eager to attend col- need to be replaced. But before you start shopping for Hanukkah or Christ-
leges and universities of their choice. tackle cosmetic projects, it is a good mas. Get an early start and you'll have
In many cases students could not at- idea to take an inventory of seasonal more time to enjoy those get-togethers
tend the school of their choice but for priorities. with family and friends when the time
the generous help made available to The heating system comes first. comes. And, at last, make your plans
them by corporations and organizations Ideally, you'll schedule an annual tune early for New Year's Eve. Even a quiet
who are sensitive to such needs. up. A qualified technician will ensure celebration in front of the TV, watching
Thank you for your generosity on his that it is operating efficiently and that the ball drop over Times Square, can
behalf. you won't have to worry about hazards use some special attention.
Mary Gazal such as carbon monoxide. And, if you
Director 0f Financial Aid
18 N AT I O N A L S L O V A K S O C I E T Y N E W S OCTOBER 201462101NSSNatlNwsOct14_Layout 1 9/11/14 3:31 PM Page 20
Youth Circle News
Youth Circle Page
Youth Circle of National Slovak Society • 351 Valley Brook Road, McMurray, PA 15317
Junior Pittsburgh 2014 Christmas Ornament Contest
Slovakians It’s not to soon to starting thinking about what kind of Christmas Ornament to
create. Get out your glue guns and glitter and create a winning ornament today!
We’d like you to become a part of The rules are as follows:
our performing ensemble! 1. The contest is open to all NSS members. In addition, we are inviting each
* Learn to sing, dance &/or play region, assembly, our Home Office Staff, and even our Board Members to
the violin. participate.
* No experience necessary, 2. Entries should be no larger than 5" High; 5" Wide and 5" Deep. The base can
we’ll show you how! be in any shape so long as it stays within the above measurements. You can
glue objects to make your ornament decorative (we encourage you to be
* Meet new friends
creative!) Some examples are: glitter, ribbon, stars, cotton balls, etc... Please
* Learn about your Slovak Heritage! submit original handmade ornaments only. Ornaments made from kits will be
* Perform at the Pittsburgh Folk Festival, disqualified.
Slovak Day, Slovak Heritage Festival at 3. All entries must include your name, address, age, youth circle number or
Pitt as well as other events! assembly number and phone number on a separate sheet of paper. Youth
members should also list their shirt size (Youth: YM, or Adult: AS, AM,
We are now accepting new members and AL, AXL).
would like to invite you to come and find 4. All winners in each group will have their names appear in the "National
out what we are all about! News". In addition a picture of your ornament will appear in the Winter issue
For more information, please call Sue of the "Youth Circle Magazine", as well as on the website. All entries will be
Ondrejco at 412-421-1204 or e-mail: distributed to a local nursing home to be placed on a Christmas Tree. You can
sue.ondrejco@gmail.com send in more than one ornament for distribution purposes--the more we have
the prettier the tree will be! In the event you send more than one, please note
which ornament you would like to have entered into the contest to be judged.
5. The contest shall be judged under the following categories and prize awards:
Joke Time Our Youth Members
Frosty's group - Ages 5, 6 and 7
Prize Awards
First Place - $25.00
Q: What time is it when 10 elephants Rudolph's group - Ages 8, 9 and 10 First Place - $25.00
are chasing you? Snowflake group - Ages 11, 12 and 13 First Place - $25.00
A: Ten to one! Santa group - Ages 14, 15 and 16 First Place - $25.00
Q: Why was everyone so tired on
April 1st?
A: They had just finished a March Prize Awards
of 31 days! Our Adult Members First Place - $50.00
Q: Why are Saturday and Sunday Second Place - $30.00
the strongest days? Third Place - $20.00
A: Because all the others are weak-days!
Q: What time is it when an elephant 6. Entries must be mailed, or hand-delivered to the NSS Home Office by the
sits on your watch? deadline of December 1st of each year. Please mail to: National Slovak Society
A: Time to get a new watch! ATT: Ornament Contest, 351 Valley Brook Road, McMurray, PA 15317-3337
Q: What did the thief who stole a
calendar get? BE SURE THAT YOU FOLLOW THE RULES CAREFULLY SO YOU DO NOT LOSE
A: Twelve months! POINTS IN THE JUDGING.
N AT I O N A L S L O V A K S O C I E T Y N E W S OCTOBER 2014 19You can also read
