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FALCON NEWSA Message FromThe President & CEOTimothy L. Kuzma, President & CEOThis is the time of year when we always look back at whathappened in the previous year. We make lists about the best ofthis and the worst of that. Who had a good year and who had abad year. It’s a healthy exercise because it allows us to examineour world, our surroundings, and personally, where we fit in thegrand scheme of things. This reflection also helps us prepare forwhat is ahead because it provides the knowledge, wisdom, andexperience on which we will base our future plans and decisions.This is the time of year when we look forward to the New Year.The New Year awaits us with hope and optimism. We make plans,set resolutions (And we really are going to keep them this year.)Like children examining the prospects of fun and games after anew snowfall, we set our sights on the future with hope that isonly limited by our imagination.For the Polish Falcons of America, 2009 was a successfulyear. It was challenging in many regards. We are still managingthe impact of the recession, but we are in a better position thanwe were at this time last year. Even though I feel the worst isbehind us, there are still potential dangers ahead. What is hearteningin these troubled times is that we have a strong Board ofDirectors and Executive Committee, and we have a full staff withoutstanding people who work hard for all the members of thePolish Falcons.I am excited about 2010. We have been developing plans andprograms for many months and I am optimistic about everythingthat we are doing in 2010. We are going to build on oursuccesses, learn from our mistakes, and make the Polish Falconsan even stronger organization. Among the highlights in 2010, ourNational Zlot will be held this summer in Washington, D.C. Therewill also be a new Inter-Polonia Bowling Tournament with otherPolish fraternal organizations in the spring. In addition, we will beholding conferences of the Legion of Honor Commandery and theDistrict Presidents during the year. There are many more eventsand programs planned for the entire year so watch the newspaperand the web site for updates and more information.As we all prepare for the hope and promise the New Year maybring, I want to conclude with a quote from Carl Sandburg: “Timeis the coin of your life. It is the only coin you have, and only youcan determine how it will be spent. Be careful lest you let otherpeople spend it for you.”Have a Blessed and Wonderful New Year! Czolem!In terms of our programs and activities, 2009 was a banneryear. Not only were our established programs like the bowling,golf and volleyball tournaments all successful, we introducedseveral new activities. The Charitable Golf Outing, Mass in honorof Our Lady of Czestochowa, and Vintage Film Premiere were thehighlights of these new programs. We had a successful programat the end of the year to raise money for our scholarship program.I want to thank everyone who made a contribution to support thisfantastic program of giving scholarships to our young members.One of our biggest challenges was the move of NationalHeadquarters to a new location. We accomplished this task inNovember and I am pleased that we have an outstanding homefor National Headquarters of which all the members can be proud.To strengthen the organization, we dissolved more than 20inactive Nests. Financially, this will be one of the best years wehave ever had in terms of premium income. Our assets andsurplus continue to grow. Our successes in 2009 are a testamentto the strength and vitality of our organization. This inspires meand gives me great hope for the future of the Polish Falcons ofAmerica.SOKÓŁ POLSKI—POLISH FALCON JANUARY 2010 PAGE 2

FALCON NEWSPresidentʼs PhysicalFitness ChallengeCalling all Polish Falcon Adult and YouthWalkers and Steppers, Bowlers, Golfers, Volleyballplayers, gymnasts, and any membersthat can move!!! Are you up for the Challenge?The President’s Physical FitnessChallenge is what we are talking about!The Polish Falcons of America hasstarted a group to take the President’sPhysical Fitness Challenge. All members,Youth and Adult are invited to take thechallenge together. The President’s Challengeis a series of programs designed tohelp improve everyone’s activity level. ThePresident’s Challenge gives you points forany type of physical activity you take partin, from aerobics to walking to house cleaningor cutting the grass. You can do rope jumping,cheerleading, marching, Pilates and evenbowling counts for points.To learn more about the President’s Challengeand the activities you can use to getpoints, go to: http://presidentschallenge.org.When you join our Polish Falcons group, we’lltry and help keep you motivated – even whenyou don’t really feel like it! There are programsfor different activity levels like the ActiveLifestyle program aimed at beginners andthe Presidential Champions program for thosewho are already active. Just sign up for theone that fits your lifestyle when you register.Signing up for our group is simple. All youhave to do is register. It’s quick, and there isno cost to participate. You log in your informationon an individual level. You do nothave to be in a group or even at aFalcon function for your activity to count.Here’s how to join:1. Go to http://www.presidentschallenge.organd double click the Log-in tab.2. Double click on “Not registered yet?”3. Fill out the registration form. Be sure toinclude the following information during registration.Youth Group ID Number: 86967Adult Group ID Number: 88287Your Group Member ID/Name: PFA Youthor PFA Adult.After registering, start logging your activities.As you log activities, you’ll be able totrack your progress toward winning a President’sChallenge Award or Medal. We willalso have prizes for our group from the PolishFalcons Physical Education Department.Since you will receive points for your particularactivity, everyone will be on an equal levelto receive awards. So come on Mom andDad and Grandma and Grandpa and brothersand sisters. Register the whole family andbecome part of the Polish Falcons of AmericaPresident’s Physical Fitness Challenge.Accept the Challenge!SOKÓŁ POLSKIPOLISH FALCONJANUARY 2010 - NO. 1OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE POLISH FALCONS OF AMERICA SINCE 1896DAVID J. MOTAK —EDITOR, GRAPHIC DESIGNGREGORY J. GUSHARD - WEB MASTER; HEALTH ANDFITNESS COLUMNISTPublished Monthly by The Polish Falcons of America615 Iron City Drive, Pittsburgh, PA 15205-4397www.polishfalcons.orgSent to all premium paying members without charge.Postmaster — Send address changes to: Sokol Polski381 Mansfield Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15220-2751Telephone: (412) 922-2244, Toll Free: 1-800-535-2071FAX: (412) 922-5029E-mail: communications@polishfalcons.orgPeriodicals PostagePaid In Pittsburgh, PAUSP 500-640PRIVACY POLICY STATEMENT — POLISH FALCONS OF AMERICAPrivacy – Personal Financialand Medical InformationProtecting the privacy of your personal financialand medical information has alwaysbeen and will continue to be a matter of toppriority for us. When used in this notice, thefollowing terms have the meaning shown.* Public Information means information thatis lawfully available to the general publicfrom: Federal, State or local governmentrecords; widely distributed media; or, disclosuresto the general public that are required tobe made by Federal, State or local law.* Non-Public Information means personallyidentifiable financial and medical information.It also means any list, description orother grouping of individuals, and publiclyavailable information pertaining to them, thatis derived from any personally identifiable informationthat is not publicly available.* Consumer Reporting Agency means an entitywhich regularly provides reports (ConsumerReports) including informationregarding an individual’s: general reputation,character, personal characteristics or mode ofliving and financial status. The informationmay be obtained through interviews with theindividual or third parties, such as the individual’s:business associates, family members,friends, neighbors, acquaintances or financialsources.We obtain information about you from thefollowing sources:* information that you provided to us in anapplication or other form;* information about your transactions withus (such as premium payments, loans, claims,etc.), or others; and* information that we may receive from aConsumer Reporting Agency.We will not disclose any personal, nonpublicinformation about you to anyone, exceptas permitted or required by law. We willnot disclose personal medical informationabout you, except as permitted by law or asyou may authorize.We restrict access to your personal, insuranceand medical information to those of ouremployees who need to know that informationin order to provide insurance or serviceto you. We are, and will continue to be, vigilantin the safeguarding of your personal financialand medical information. We maintainphysical, electronic and procedural safeguardsto comply with Federal and State regulationsregarding the safeguarding of non-public information.It is our sincere desire to maintain complete,accurate and up-to-date records. Youmay contact us at the address to the left, to access,as provided by law, information includedin your file. We will promptly correct anyerror in our information. To protect your privacy,you will need to identify yourself byproviding us with your name, date of birth andsocial security number.SOKÓŁ POLSKI—POLISH FALCON JANUARY 2010 PAGE 3

FALCON NEWSThank you very much to those of you who have donated to ourBakeless Bake Sale Scholarship Donations:Bakeless Bake Sale. The response has been wonderful. Donationsranging from $3.00 to $500.00 have been received. Each and every donation is greatly appreciated. Following is a list of those who have donated. Onceagain, thank you so very much for your generosity. Donations are still being accepted. If a Nest, District or individual donates $500.00, a grant in theirname will be issued for the 2010-2011 school year.In Memory:Donations of $500Mary Ann and Tom Spann, Nest 36, in memoryof Alice PatakyDonations of $300Sophie Tomasik Gerisch, Nest 959, in memory ofher father Joseph A Tomasik, Organizer Nest 336Donations of $110Art Streb, Nest 52, in memory of John Chodakand Margaret StrebDonations of $110Cynthia Daniels, Nest 45, in memory of AnnaKuliniewiczDonald Hulbert Family, Nest 3, in memory ofCzuchalski FamilyWalter Kerber, Nest 964 in memory of Walter, Mary,Maryanne and Frank KerberBetty and Frank Kolano, Nest 118 in memory ofWalter and Victoria ZielinskiThe Koziateck Family, Nest 79 in memory ofHenry KoziatekMary, Daniel, Donald and Sharon Kwiatkowski andPhyllis Wesolek, Nest 6 in memory of ThaddeusKwiatkowskiJohn W Leonard, Nest 318 in memory of Vince andVickie MarinkeJohn Marut, Nest 519 in memory of Anna Tyskowskiand Agnes MarutWilliam Mesick, Nest 580 in memory of RomeoRupinskiRosalie Pabis, Nest 118 in memory of Walter CPabisIrene Pearson, Nest 118 in memory of her sisterZytnicka GeniaJeff Pichnarcik, Nest 68 in memory of EdwinKicielinski (Klinski)Jeanne B Szamreta, Nest 104 in memory of BenSzamretaMary Ann Weleski, Nest 159 in memory of herhusband Edward T WeleskiDonations of $50Helen Antecki, Nest 79 in memory of Frank AnteckiNatalie Banach, Nest 6 in memory of Vincent TBanachLaraine S Baran, Nest 430 in memory of MajeskyBruce and Bobbi Buerkle, Nest 118 in memory ofJoel BuerkleGretchen Crutchfield, in memory of KathrynBlondeaux, Nest 159L Dilla, Nest 176 in memory of Anthony P LysowskiDean Dove, Nest 564 in memory of Bill DoveCarol A Gura, Nest 68 in memory of SigmundPeczynskiBeatrice Kaczowski, Nest 115 in memory ofThomas SmolenRobert J Kempczysnki, Nest 104 in memory ofHelen and Stanley KempczysnkiMarietta King, Nest 804 in memory of HenrySzmagajBarbara Kochaniak, Nest 118 in memory ofTeresa and Stanistaw SrubarczykCecilia J Krohelski, Nest 208 in memory of John JSrokaKelley L Mack, Nest 610 in memory of Clayton andCelia LamphereDaniel Michalowski, Nest 52 in memory of BeveryMichalowskiDodie Piersielak, Nest 52 in memory of deceasedMembers of Nest 52Jan Powroznik, Nest 939 in memory of RosePowroznikMr and Mrs Stanley A Skowronek (Dorothy),Nest 80 in memory of Chester SkopekMrs Timothy Szazynski, Nest 176 in memory of"Tiger" Tim SzazynskiMr and Mrs David Tabinowski, Nest 182 in memoryof Mr and Mrs Joseph TabinowskiAnthony L Urillo, Nest 307 in memory of UrilloFamilyTony White, Nest 318 in memory of Ida Marie andPhyllis LaposkiLawrence R Wujcikowski, Nest 6 in memory ofNorma K WujcikowskiDonations of $30Julia M Sadecky, Nest 301 in memory of Julianand Mary FelczakDorothy Ford, Nest 79 in memory of Kenneth FordSarah Szamreta, Nest 104 in memory of hergrandfather, a proud member of the Polish FalconsDonations of $25Wanda Dudek, Nest 146 in memory of JosephDudekJanet Boyers, Nest 318 in memory of Chester andHelen ShebishJeffrey Brayfield, Nest 307 in memory ofDan CharetteLinda and Ron Bywalec, Nest 31 in memory ofLaura and Stephen BywalecHeather Cahill, Nest 804 in memory of MichalinaUrbanska BrandtMargie Callery, Nest 17 in memory of Alfred andMarge ZienowiczRosemary Daly, Nest 580 in memory of Roseand Steve TrzepaczScott Smith, Nest 580 in memory of DonaldMacWhinnieChestor S Drzoscz, Nest 65 in memory of JosephJ DrzosczGregory Dziedziak, Nest 79 in memory of theDziedziak FamilyGail Evanguelidi, Nest 159 in memory of StanleySadeskiDavid Fichtenmayer, Nest 45 in memory of VernaFichtenmayerRegina Gibson, Nest 208 in memory of John Sroka,Irene Golanowski, Nest 1 in memory of StefaniaGolanowskiLeo Golba, Nest 146 in memory of Frank andHelen GolbaD Golichowski, Nest 80 in memory of GeraldineSchmanskiJoe Gorny, Nest 4 in memory of Henry S GromskiMel and Kay Greco, Nest 519 in memory ofpast family membersFlorence Gromski, Nest 4 in memory of HenryGromskiBarbara Higgins, Nest 36 in memory of Henry WPawlowskiPamela Indra, Nest 188 in memory of the Meler's,Dolores Jaskierski, Nest 827 in memory of BlancheNorkewiczJennie Kazmierczak, Nest 964 in memory ofChester B KazmierczakFrances M Kodenski, Nest 958 in memory ofRichard F KodenskiTony and Glenda Kotowski, Nest 20 in memoryof Deceased Family MembersMarty Kowalski, Nest 652 in memory ofChristopher HuntoonThe Krajewski Family, Nest 79 in memory ofBernard RogalskiMaureen D Kreh, Nest 68 in memory of her dadJoseph A DziadosNancy Kronst, Nest 42 in memory of Robert KronstGloria J Larko, Nest 301 in memory of Rudy LarkoFrank Maciejczyk, Nest 91 in memory of FrancesMaciejczykGenevieve P Maigarie, Nest 307 in memory ofEdward J MaigarieKimberly Martin, Nest 182 in memory ofHenrietta Kokoski ManiniMarilyn McClelland, Nest 118 in memory ofGertrude LachendroRichard and Jane Mierzejewski, Nest 580 inmemory of Elizabeth GouldVictoria B Miller, Nest 301 in memory ofThomas KokoskiMr and Mrs Charles North, Nest 159 in memoryof Mr and Mrs Rudolph HaponskiPeter O'Brien, Nest 580 in memory of John GooleyEdwin O'Neil, Nest 247 in memory ofElizabeth O'NeilCheryl Ostrowski, Nest 318 in memory of LouisOstrowskiAlfrieda W Pelc, Nest 6 in memory of Theophil PelcJoe and Teri Piktel, Nest 247 in memory ofJoseph J Piktel JrMr and Mrs John Pisansky, Nest 115 in memory ofWalter and Mary KoczelaEdward Prabucki, Nest 6 in memory of MarkPrabuckiRemer Family, Nest 79 in memory of Tom Sadowski,Nest 907Andrea C Ruttan, Nest 80 in memory of John JPetersonJeanette A Rychcik, Nest 188 in memory of WalterRychcikMargaret M Sczykutowicz, Nest 336 in memory ofJohn J Sczykutowicz SrWilliam Sharkey, Nest 77 in memory of B. LynnSharkeyPearl Sivulich, Nest 91 in memory of Emily MagaMiriam L Skopek, Nest 964 in memory ofChester SkopekBarbara Smagin, Nest 52 in memory of TheresaKiereckiDan Smogor, Nest 80 in memory of Clem SmogorEdmund J Sudol, Nest 81 in memory of John TSudolStanley and Amy Tafil, Nest 104 in memory ofStanley C TafilowskiHenry T Tenerowicz, Nest 159 in memory of hisparents Walter and Clara TenerowiczLinda Tomnitz, Nest 827 in memory of BlancheNorkeviczSusan Varesio, Nest 811 in memory of Virginiaand Henry BudnikMarcella and Donald Vidoli, Nest 36 in memory ofEdwin ChoromanskiDonald and Elaine Walkowiak, Nest 80 in memoryof Blacharski Walkowiak Family'sDouglas and Benjamin Wescott, Nest 87 inmemory of Eleanor Wasiloski, Nest 87Stanley L Zaprzalka, Nest 208 in memory of OlgaA Zaprzalkacontinued on page 5SOKÓŁ POLSKI—POLISH FALCON JANUARY 2010 PAGE 4

FALCON NEWScontinued from page 4Raymond Zareczny Jr, Nest 725 in memory of Rayand Gerry ZarecznyWilliam J Zidek, Nest 163 in memory of Mary S ZidekDonations of $20John Aszklar, Nest 307 in memory of RaymondJ ShawJerome and Louise Bobrzynski, Nest 8 in memory ofFrank and Helen BobrzynskiKatherine Cook, Nest 182 in memory of StanleyLesneyRon Hruska, Nest 146 in memory of Dave MosesKevin Megin, Nest 68 in memory of Marion BelczykMary Ann Moran, Nest 4 in memory of Gene andAlice KochanowskiStanley Muchewicz, Nest 88 in memory of DrhTadeusz MroczekVince Podbielski, Nest 318 in memory of Anthony JSurman's mother Louise SurmanJohn Raffa, Nest 77 in memory of Frank ZychowskiClara J Sroka, Nest 964 In memory of John C SrokaBernadette A Zotter, Nest 176 in memory ofBernadine KlotzDonations of $10Velma Fayforvich, Nest 390 in memory ofdeceased family membersJoan Kopinski, Nest 964 in memory of her sonMark KopinskiLeonard C Penczak, Nest 182 in memory ofAnastasia PenczakLoretta H Spychalski, Nest 80 in memory of herparents John and Sophie SniadeckiRichard F Wujciak, Nest 104 in memory of Frankand Lottie WujciakStasia Archis, Nest 188 in memory of Teresa SzmydJoseph M Bator, Nest 104 in memory of MaryJane LopegNancy Bielot, Nest 519 in memory of Walter BielotJoanne Bolt, Nest 176 in memory of Ann MurphySteve Bovo, Nest 146 in memory of Nancy RoseBovo WaltersBernadette Brig, Nest 964 in memory of Fran MiskoMickey Bruzik, Nest 519 in memory of Anna BruzikMichalina Cahill, Nest 70 in memory of MichalinaU BrandtSandra M Cienik, Nest 15 in memory ofRonald CienikJim and Vicki Csenar, Nest 4 in memory of Tonyand Phyllis CsenarEdward D DeBald, Nest 8 in memory of his wife T CDeBald and daughter Suzanne DeBaldMr and Mrs Harry Dobrowolski, Nest 66 in memoryof Ronald DobrowolskiLeonard Duranczyk, Nest 42 in memory of JosephineDuranczykDorothea Fedoryszyn, Nest 22 in memory ofHedy KrajczynskiMr and Mrs M Grohoski, Nest 804 in memoryof Louis R KubiakAgnes Adamczak, Nest 276 in memory of JosephAdamczakSusan M Hall, Nest 80 in memory of Lewis andDorothy HallRuth and William Hamilton, Nest 45 in memory ofJohn and Marjorie MarciakCasimira A Hokaj, Nest 30 in memory of Teofil LendaBeverly Hollander, Nest 6 in memory of EleanorChodkowskiMr and Mrs Jospeh Horbacz, Nest 126 in memoryof John PasterJoan Jaworski, Nest 4 in memory of Clem MarkowskiMary Kozlowski Jensen, Nest 42 in memory of TedS KozlowskiLillian Jerzyk, Nest 829 in memory of Rose SikoraFrancis and Patricia Kacprzynski, Nest 52 inmemory of Gertrude S KacprzynskiGerald Kazmierzak, Nest 80 in memory of JudyKazmierczakGenevieve Fura, Nest 964 in memory of Michael CFuraAlexandra Kopeck , Nest 163 in memory ofdeceased members of the Kopeck FamilyChester Kotowski, Nest 86 in memory of IreneKotowski - FamilyStan A Krzeminski, Nest 318 in memory ofAl KrzeminskiBernice Lesnick, Nest 208 in memory of Walter JLesnick, past President of Nest 208Adeline Macalka, Nest 80 in memory of WalterMacalkaJoseph R Madden, Nest 4 in memory of Maddenand Heick FamiliesTadeusz Mielcarz, Nest 68 in memory and in honorof his wife FrancesAlfreda A Mills, Nest 787 in memory of Gene DilboRita Nowak, in memory of Leon J Nowak, Nest 6Agnes Nye, Nest 22 in memory of her husbandMel NyeHelen Plonka, Nest 146 in memory of Stanley PlonkaJohn Pojnar, Nest 41 in memory of Laura PojnarRonald J Potrzebowski, Nest 493 in memory ofBenny and Alice PotrzebowskiWilliam S Price, Nest 176 in memory of ThereseRadecki PriceShirley Pulver, Nest 580 in memory of ConnieOstrikisJoseph Rajchel, Nest 725 in memory of George CRajchel, Nest 725Joseph B Renk, Nest 8 in memory of Mr and MrsFranchiniShirley Ritchey, Nest 159 in memory of CheriRobertsHelen Romalewski, Nest 804 in memory of AnthonyRomalewskiStanley J Roman Sr, Nest 41 in memory of his wifeFlorence RomanBarb and Jerry Ropelewski, Nest 123 in memory ofVera and Joe RopelewskiCatherine Schieffer, Nest 725 in memory of BernardSchiefferAlfred Singer, Nest 822 in memory of Frances SingerAnnabell Spliedt, Nest 276 in memory of Robert GSpliedtJohn A Stankiewicz, Nest 336 in memory of RoseStankiewiczLottie Swietoniowski, Nest 430 in memory of HarrySwietoniowskiRita Szczepanski, Nest 60 in memory of Bernardand Paul SzczepanskiFlorence E Szklanka, Nest 20 in memory of JosephA SzklankaEleanor Tarkowski, Nest 301 in memory of ZygmuntTarkowskiAdela Tuczkowski, Nest 17 in memory of her motherRussell P Uram, Nest 146 in memory of AndrewUramMariane E Wesolowski, Nest 6 in memory ofTom Kokoski, Nest 182Gertrude Wettergren, Nest 80 in memory of LauraFranckiewiczLen Wienczkowski, Nest 123 in memory ofWienczkowski, Kranz FamilyLoraine M Wies, Nest 580 in memory of CatherineMierzejewskiGenevieve Wolczek, Nest 36 in memory of HeleneWolczek MileskiEleanore Zarnowiecki, Nest 866 in memory ofStanley ZarnowieckiFrank A Zawada, Nest 401 in memory Frank andAnna ZawadaDonations of $5 or moreDorothy Cwik , Nest 907 in memory of EleanoreConff, Nest 827Thomas J Ludwig, Nest 336 in memory of StanleyJ LudwigIn Honor of:Donations of $500PFA Nest 1, in honor of Helen Gall 75 years ofloyal service with Nest 1Donations of $100Raymond Kaczynski, Nest 141 in honor of CharlesKaczynski, PhD who is a recipient of a Richard CGorecki ScholarshipMeler and Stanton Family, Nest 188 in honor ofMeler FamilyDonations of $25Mr and Mrs James Conroy, Nest 15 in honor of MrsKolano and Mrs Pekor, Nest 15Josephine Dextradeur, Nest 519 in honor of StefanieGarganoFrances Kazmierczak, Nest 80 in honor of HarryHecklinskiJanet Keeth, Nest 959 in honor of Nest 959John Kolodziejski, Nest 146 in honor of Poles ofWestern PARegina Kowalski, Nest 176 in memory of JohnKowalskiRob and Andrea Michalak, Nest 6 in honor ofthe Michalak ChildrenPFA Nest 42 Ladies Auxiliary, in honor of allMembersEdmund Polchlopek, Nest 188 in honor ofJoseph PolchlopekKen Tracz, Nest 208 in honor of Bob WiatrakDonations of $20Nathalia Cencelewski, Nest 4 in honor of all Nest 4MembersLouise and Jerry Ferilla, Nest 146 in honor ofJeana Marie Freilla ColellaDonations of $10Mark G Manowczak, Nest 964 in honor of John MManowczakRaymond J Ambers, Nest 564 in honor ofChristopher AmbersAlice Francis, Nest 967 in honor of Kosiara andFrancis FamilyEdward R Gray, Nest 247 in honor of Nathan GrubbPhilip and Deborah Lasky, Nest 146 in honor ofBrittany and Kristin LaskyRobin Luna, Nest 580 in honor of Stasia ArchisRosemary Sawa, Nest 250 in honor of Matthewand Peter KwiatkowskiMiroslaw Tanski, Nest 88 in honor of Nest 88Mary Ann Tracz, Nest 208 in honor of Nest 208James and Ann Marie Wildes, Nest 123 in honorof James P WildesMarta Wlazlo, Nest 208 in honor of Pawel Fryc, DDSFelix Wojtunik, Nest 68 in honor of Jean WojtunikGeneral Donations:Donations of $500Stanley J GrabowyStanley J KottDonations of $200Stephanie PlaziakDonations of $100Donald L BuczynskiWlodek KarauszThe Edward Opalacz FamilyPFA Nest 97Jack SzafranDr. and Mrs Robert Zikarascontinued on page 7SOKÓŁ POLSKI—POLISH FALCON JANUARY 2010 PAGE 5

FALCON NEWScontinued from page 6Bakeless Bake Sale Scholarship Donations:family; many will miss this mild mannered, friendlyman.The following day, I drove to Harrisburg to attend themeeting of the Pennsylvania Fraternal Congress. TheCongress has quite a few things planned for the upcomingyear.Thursday, December 10, Druhowie Tim Kuzma, JohnKuzmirek, Druhna Chris Puskar along with DruhowieWally Zielinski and Ted Kokoski and I attended theChristmas Party of the Fraternal Societies of GreaterPittsburgh (FSGP ). I was installed as the President forthe upcoming year. Ten years ago, when I was electedas District IV President, Druhna Valerie DePersis invitedme to attend this party as her guest. I had neverheard of the FSGP before and now fast forward tenyears and I am President of the group. This is an umbrellagroup that meets monthly to discuss various issuesregarding the Fraternal Benefit system.The response to the Bakeless Bake Sale benefitingthe Starzynski Fund has been wonderful! The Starzynskiprogram is one of our premiere programs since1962. I am very appreciative and so are all the recipients.For those of you who have donated, thank youvery much. For those of you who haven’t, there is stilltime to make your donation. Please be as generous ascircumstances allow.Nests should have held their elections. Installationsare upcoming and I am looking forward to attending afew of them. Please send in your Nest Officers formand End of Year Activity questionnaire; deadline forthese two forms is February 28. Also, please send inyour Participation Reports. Since this is a new program,Druh Gorny will accept them from any month lastyear. The deadline is January 15.The minutes from the District Conventions as well asDistrict Officers forms should have been received bythe National Office. If you haven’t yet submitted yourminutes or forms, please send them into me as soonas possible.Please return the Nest dues rosters so that your informationmay be updated. The bills go out in Februaryand we need time to get the information on the computer.Looking forward to the upcoming year, it’ll be anotherbusy one! Hoping that in 2010, our economy ismore stable, our military safer, our world kinder, our organizationstronger, all of us wise, healthy and happy.Czolem,Druhna Del BusseEditorial PolicyThe Editorial Staff of the Sokol Polski reserves theright to edit, modify or refuse submissions asneeded. All submissions are the opinions of theircreator(s). Electronic submissions are preferred andrequested via email at:communications@polishfalcons.orgThe Editorial Staff is not responsible for any errorsmade in transcribinghand-written or hard-copy submissions. Deadlinesare the first Tuesday of each month. Submissionsreceived after the deadline will be considered for thenext edition. Exceptions to the deadline must bearranged in advance with the Editor. Please note:Electronic photos are preferred; mailed, hard copyphotos are also welcome. Because of their poor quality,we cannot use photos printed on home printers.continued from page 5Donations of $50Alan AbanovicStan AdamskiAngeline A GalluzeCharles J GlinskiBruce GuzikNicole HallJonathan HarderPat HeinemanMary IskraJoseph P MakowskiRoland MayoEugene and Dorothy MeginJim MilotzHenry and Elinor NovickiMary RandStella Szafran RogersChester E ZimolzakDonations of $30Kozub FamilyJacob J KrawiecSandra Abendroth and Kevinand Christopher FixTom and Karen KolanoBarbara LusczekDonations of $25Martin BeaverRaymond J Blazek JrWladyslaw BudweilFlorence CesarzEmily ChoromanskiJames E CoxJ Peter CravenerRosemarie CunninghamMartin Tony EnglerKaren FordMaryjo GarganoYolanta and Eric GnapBobby Joe and Lori GornyMaria GostynskiRobert L GrodzickiStephen E Hardin IIEd and Diane HnathTheresa JaczeskoAlex KaletaEdward W KarpinskiCasey and Eugenia KielGeorge KolanoJohn K KozlowskiRonald KozlowskiWladyslaw KulakLeszek KuleszaJohn TaralloLarracuente FamilyJo Ann LatkowskiMike McMullenWalter MichalojkoRaymond W Milukas JrChester MrozinskiRonald A NagyHarry E NiemierJohn NykazaCraig ObaraLeonard OstasiewskiJoe and Lucy OzaJames PajakRegis M PaschelMr and Mrs J PaszekTheresa J PellegrinoAdela PerkowskiPodbielski FamilyTony PolThe Pollack FamilyThomas RadziminskiZofia RamosJoseph RotondoJohn RoviaroMarilyn, Jeffrey and KristinSalzanoHenry A ShozdaDorothy SitkoSokol Society No. 70Stoklosa FamilyAngela SwakonRobert SzmydClaire ThresherCarol TrothGeorgianne M WalkerHelen WlodekValentine WojtonDiana WozniakFrania YakimaDonations of $10Antoinette FedorekMarianne KolodziejJosephine KottJohn Niemiec JrEmily RepkingJohn and Mary SmithNancy J SrokaMichael Stosor JrBen ValasekNoelle WojciehowskiGerald GlebaHelen SkomskyMr and Mrs William WeberBlanche KloskiGenevieve AdamczykJoan BartosMr and Mrs George BishopScott BlakeRonald BlazejewskiDelores BockNatalie BogaczewiczJoseph BokRobert A BorkowskiRobert BorowitzJo Ann and Kazimierz BrejwoEstelle A CahillMary CheckJodi and Mark ClaggThe CwiekasKaz CzarneckiG Susan DeMaioloDennison FamilyJane DobekEdward DomzalskiAlex W DzialoVeronica FaldowskiStanley J FalkiewiczAlan FiondellaMarta FirakThe Fisher FamilyJoelle FullerAdolf GawronWilliam and Barbara GouldPhyllis C HmielewskiRobert and Dolores HopkaJean HrynkaMary JaneczekStanley F JaniakEugene JurekKalinowski FamilyKappel FamilyStasia KistkaAnnette KociolekDorothy and Frank KosikowskiBarbara KrebbelMary M KurowskiMary T KutaFrank KwiecienThomas J Lashinis SrEdward M LeskoStanley A LipinskiBoguslaw S MachMary E McCarthyDon McClaryKarol BrudnyPeter J MedynHelen MoyherIrene NadziejaR NogaOtlowski FamilyDanuta PakoszW J Pawlak SrAnna PigielFrank PszennyStanley E PustyDavid RadkaJulia RadziminskiJoyce M RajchelJoan RuszalaGevevieve SchaffrenTheresa SiecinskiZygmunt SkwaraAnn SojaBronislaw SoltysikAnn SpevakRaymond W SpychClyde A StrongRichard StrzeleckiCecile SumeraThomas R SurmanAlbin SypkoHelen and Edward HTulinski SrUrbanic FamilyBarbara VitoJohn L WalczakWalewski FamilyWall FamilyNorbert and GloriaWasikowskiJoseph WisniewskiJoseph J WojtczakDaniel WojtowiczThe WolfesPeter J WolnickiStan WrubleTed A ZaroffEd and Celia ZlotorzynskiDonations of less than $10Josephine BlagoHarold N ChristiansonKaren DeBellisJoann SpenskiAnonymousMaria D NykazaFrances M RenkiewiczSOKÓŁ POLSKI—POLISH FALCON JANUARY 2010 PAGE 7

FALCON NEWSPFA Calendar of EventsNest 4, South Bend, INContact: www.mrfalcons.com or574-288-1090Nest 31, Detroit, Mich.• The Eastside Junior Bowling Oncea Month League will start again atRose Bowl Lanes in Roseville, Mi.We would like to see all the childrenin District XIII that wish to participatein this sport on the followingdates at noon: 12/20 ; 1/17 2/21 ;3/21 ; 4/18• Nest 31 gym classes will at theKeith Bovenschen school on Tuesdayfrom 6-8 p.m. Gym dates areas follows: 11/10 ; 11/24Nest 36, Southwestern Conn.• January 8 – Gym Classes resumeat 7:00 p.m. in the Nest Hall.• January 24, 1:00 p.m. Installationof Officers.Nest 42, Chicago Heights, Ill.• Gym classes are held for girls andboys ages six and older. For additionalinformation, contact KimDutczak at 708-672-3754.Nest 45, St. Louis, Mo.• Monthly meetings held the firstFriday of the month at 7:30 p.m.Nest 52, Rochester, N.Y.• Meeting held the fourth Tuesday ofeach month, St. Paul’s Fireman’sExempt Club, 690 Thomas Ave,Rochester.Nest 79, Southgate, MI• January 9 - Yearly Meeting, Electionof Officers/ New Years Party. Allevents will take place in the NestClub Room.Nest 80, South Bend, Ind.• Fish fries held first Friday of everymonth from 5 to 7 p.m.Nest 97, Windber, Pa.Contact: 814-467-8256Nest 104, Newark, N.J.• March 7 - Next meeting at thePolish Cultural Foundation, in Clark,NJ 2 p.m. Among other agendaitems, we will discuss the Nest auditfor calendar year 2009, and the2010 Nest 104 Scholarships.Nest 124, Saginaw, Mich.• Friday Fish Fry at 5:30 p.m. All-You-Can-Eat, $8.Nest 182, Ambridge, PA• Membership meeting FourthWednesday of the month. 7 p.m.Falcon Hall, 529 8th St. AmbridgeNest 208, Derby, CT.• March 27- annual CommunionSupper following the 4:30 p.m.Mass at St. Michael's Church; •May 22 - the first Nest sponsoredWALK-A-THON for cancer at theDerby River Walkway followed by ahot dog roast on the church grounds(rain date is scheduled for June 12); • June 6 - working at variousbooths at the Annual Picnic of St.Michael's at Warsaw Park; • June26 - Annual Membership Dinner inchurch hall; • October 24 - Nest208's 100th Anniversary Mass andBanquet.Meeting date schedule is as follows:Sunday, March 7; Friday, April 9;Friday, May 7; Friday, June 11;Friday, September 3; Friday, October1; Sunday, November 7; December5 yearly meeting withElection of Officers and Christmasparty. The Friday night meetingsbegin at 6:30 p.m. and Sundaymeetings at 1:30 p.m.Nest 247, Donora, PA• Meetings held on the secondSunday of the month at 8 p.m. atthe Nest hall.Nest 276, Muskegon, Mich.Monthly meeting is held the lastMonday of the month at 6 p.m.Food is available on Wednesdaynights. Menu is posted at the club.Nest 301, New Kensington, PA• Meetings held on the first Mondayof each month, except in July andAugust, Fraternal Order of Eagles,2134 Freeport Road, New Kensington,7:30 p.m.Nest 307, Southington, Conn.• Meetings held on the secondMonday of each month at 7 p.m.• House Committee Meetings areheld on the last Thursday of eachmonth. • Select Thursdays – Pierogimaking for the Apple HarvestFestival.Nest 318, Beaver Falls, Pa.• Meetings held on the firstThursday of each month at 7 p.m.• Bar Bingo on Tuesdays. Call 724-846-9131 for more information.• “Wing Night” is held every Wed.from 6 to 10 p.m.Nest 336, Jackson, Mich.• Meeting, January 11 at 6 p.m. Weencourage all members to attend.Watch the Sokol Polski for meetingdates or sign up for email informationat: nannk2002@yahoo.comNest 493, Batavia, N.Y.• Meetings held on the first Thursdayof each month at 7:30 p.m.Nest 507, Rockford, Ill.• Steak fry dinners are to be held onthe Wednesday before the Sportsmen’sBreakfast each month from 5to 8 p.m. • Fish fry dinners held onthe first Friday of each month. Everyother Friday of the month: chicken,shrimp or fish dinners are served atthe bar from 5 - 8 p.m.Nest 519, Middletown, CT– Adult Christmas Party, Pavilion •Breakfast club from 10 a.m. - 12p.m. Daily Lunch – From 11 a.m.to 2 p.m. • Dinners – Tuesday –Thursday 5 to 7:30 p.m., clubrooms•First Fridays – Happy Hour from 4to 6 p.m. •Second Fridays – Dinnerfrom 6 to 8 p.m. • Last Sundays –Daily Lunch – 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.Friday Nite Specials, 6 - 8 p.m.Get tickets on Thurs.Nest 564, La Porte, Ind.• Meetings held on the first Thursdayeach month at 7:30 p.m.Nest 580, Pittsfield, Mass.• Meetings held on second Tuesdayof each month, except July andAugust. • House Committee meets6:30 pm • General Meeting at 7 p.m.• Jaunary 16 - Nest 580 Presentsit’s Second Annual “Pasta e Faioli”Night. 4:30 - 8:00 p.m. Adults $7 -Seniors and Chidlren under 12 $6.Call Mike Filpi at 442-1734 Ticketsavailable at the club.Nest 610 - Erie, PA• January 10 - Yearly meeting withnomination of Officers. • January17 - Election of OfficersNest 610 is a smoke free environment.Weekly fish, pierogi, chickenand “specials” dinners served Fridaysfrom 4-7PM (Open to the Public)Tuesdays are Taco night and Thursdaysare Wings night served from 4-8 p.m. with members and guestswelcome. DJ Benny and Karaokeevery Saturday at 9 p.m. Sundayand Monday Night: Watch the NFLTicket with food and drink specials.To reserve our Banquet room foryour shower, wedding, fundraiser,retirement or other event please callCarol at 814-899-1789.Nest 652 - Lansing, Mich.October through April, first Tuesday,7 p.m., bowling at Pro-Bowl, NMLK Blvd., $2 game.Nest 652 general meetings willmeet the second Saturday of themonth at 10:30 a.m., beginning January9, All members are welcometo attend.The postponed Federated PolishHome Annual Honorary Banquethas been rescheduled for February13, 2010, at 6:00 p.m. Polish Falconsof America Nest 652 member,Vincent Novello has been selectedas the honoree.The Nest 652 Polish Falcons ofAmerica 95th Anniversary Banquetdate has been changed to November20, 2010, at 6:00 p.mPolish Language Classes Mondaysfrom 6 - 8 p.m. $5 for each classstudents attend. FPH.(FPH = Federated Polish Home,1030 West Mt. Hope, Lansing MI48910 - (517) 374-0419.)Nest 811, New Britain, Conn.• Meetings held on the first Mondayof each month at 6:30 p.m. at theNest 88 Hall.Nest 827, Chicago, Ill.• Meetings held on the first Tuesdayof January, March, June, September,October and December at11:30 a.m. at Archer Park, 49th &Kilbourne in Chicago. October 4 -Annual Horseshoe Casino Trip toHammond, Ind. contact Judy Delaneyat 773-354-0422 or DoloresJaskierski at 708-345-0422.Nest 907, Cicero, Ill.• Meetings held on the first Tuesdayevery month at President DennisKazmierowicz’s house. Please call708-485-5746 for directions.Nest 946, Somerville, N.J.• Meetings held every second Fridayeach month at 7:30 p.m. at thePolish Falcon Camp Polanka, 140Falcon Road in Hillsborough, N.J.• January 8 - Monthly Meeting, PFAPolanka - 7:30 p.m. • February 12,Monthly Meeting, PFA Polanka -7:30 p.m. • February 13 - SweetheartDance, PFA Polanka - 8:00p.m. • February 26 - Nest 946 9-day Caribbean CruiseNest 956, Ozone Park, N. Y.• January 15 - 8 p.m.- in the club -we will have our election. All Membersplease attend this meeting. •January 30 - 8 p.m. Installation Dinnerfor all new Board and Members.In the club. All members are invited.Nest 959, Allen Park, Mich.• Meetings held on second Thursdayof each month at 1:30 p.m. atthe Big Boy restaurant, 1766 Dix inLincoln Park, Mich.District EventsDISTRICT VJanuary 30 – Plenary Meeting atNest 519, Middletown (Snow Date1/31)SOKÓŁ POLSKI—POLISH FALCON JANUARY 2010 PAGE 8

FALCON NEWSIMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENTA reminder to all Nests interested in receivingmoney from the Participation Program, thedeadline for receipt of the forms for 2009 isJanuary 15, 2010 (No Exceptions).Since this is the 1st year for the programthere will be a one time grace period for turningin the forms for the entire 2009 year. Therewill be some minor changes for the 2010 year.Details to follow. If you have any questions orconcerns please contact me atpfavp2@yahoo.com or574-243-1726.Druh Bobby JoeStarzynski Scholaship Fund DonationsNovember, 2009The Polish Falcons of America wishes to express sincere gratitude to all whohave contributed to the Starzynski Scholarship Fund. Your generosity isappreciated by both the organization and the scholarship recipients alike.It is because of your generosity that we are able to continue this program.Memorial DonationsDonations of $400.00Donations in memory of Edwin Choromanski, Nest 36 LOH:.... The Milford LaboratoryDonations of $100.00Donations in memory of Edwin Choromanski, Nest 36 LOH:....Gabrielle C Prosnitz, Nest 36....Jan & Zbigniew Korzenko....Janina & Casimir DobkowskiDonations of $50.00Donations in memory of Edwin Choromanski, Nest 36 LOH:....PFA Nest 36....Sue & Michael NeufeldDonations of $25.00 or moreBobby Joe & Lori Gorny in memory of Ellen SokolowskiBobby Joe & Lori Gorny in memory of Tom Sadowski Nest 907DUES NOTICE 2010 FORNEST 964 MEMBERSThis is an important notice for members of Nest964, Reading, PA regarding dues for 2010 foractive dues paying Beneficial members.It is requested to pay by check in the amount of$5.00 payable to Polish Falcons Nest 964 alongwith a self-addressed stamped envelopeto: Zelda Marcinkowski, 27 Valley Rd.,Wyomissing, PA 19610-1955 or you can pay at themeeting the second Wednesday of the month atthe 18th Ward Democratic Club,12 noon until 2 p.m.Dead line is March 31.Donations in memory of Edwin Choromanski, Nest 36 LOH:....B Surowiec & Kravec Families....Evelyn & Frederick Choromanski, Nest 36....Hand Surgery of Southern Connecticut....Henry & Judy Bodyk, Nest 36....Jeremiah & Ilene Kennedy, Nest 36Donations of $20.00Donations in memory of Edwin Choromanski, Nest 36 LOH:....JoAnn & Kazimierz Brejwo, Nest 36....Tom Barrel & Lori RomickDonations of $10.00PFA Nest 118 in memory of Rose Marie Fink, Nest 118General DonationsDonations of $1,000.00Sokol Polski Nest 126Donations of $50.00MOVING?Don’t forget to let us know. So that our records are up-to-dateand that the Sokol Polski is delivered to you without interruption,please use the form below when you are changing your address.Also, if a member of your family (who is also a PFAmember) is moving, please use the same form.Name ____________________________________________Nest No. __________________________________________Old Address _______________________________________New Address ______________________________________New Phone No. ____________________________________E-mail ___________________________________________Please return completed form to Sokół Polski, 381 MansfieldAvenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15220-2751. You can also let usknow of your address change by e-mail at communications@polishfalcons.org.Carrie Stec, Nest 564Donations of $25.00 or more ....Susan M. Zarzeczny, Nest 430Patrick D Urbanowicz, Nest 946Lorraine R OstasiewskiDonations of $10.00 or more ....Clara L. Schulte, Nest 45Joseph Sadej, Nest 88Erica T Evan, Nest 163Leonard P Zagata, Nest 163Emilie M. Baker, Nest 247Alphonse J. Karazim, Nest 804Anne M. Szczytko, Nest 970Leonard F Duranczyk, Nest 42Donation of Less Than $10.00 ....Rose Mary Buddensick, Nest 22Amber J. Violette, Nest 80Charlotte H. Bartus, Nest 118Mary Ignatovich, Nest 128Paul A. Archis, Nest 188Gladys F. Lenart, Nest 208Anthony J Fisher, Nest 564Tania A. Glinski, Nest 580PLEASE NOTE:In making scholarshipdonations, please makeall checks payable to:PFA/Scholarship Fund.SOKÓŁ POLSKI—POLISH FALCON JANUARY 2010 PAGE 9

FALCON NEWSIn MemoriamWe bow our heads in honored reverence toour deceased members with a sincere expressionof sympathy to their families.Deaths Reported In November 2009Nest/City/State Name Date36, Southwestern CT Edwin Choromanski ** November 11, 200966, McKees Rocks, PA Maria Kalinowski October 29, 200979, Southgate, MI Edward Lukasiewicz November 03, 200992, Toledo, OH Dorothy A. Wozniak October 30, 2009115, Elizabeth, NJ Adelaide Hansen *** May 28, 2009118, Pittsburgh, PA Rose M. Fink November 07, 2009163, Mocanaqua, PA Alexander M. Lapinski November 05, 2009182, Ambridge, PA Gertrude D. Drake November 18, 2009276, Muskegon, MI Edward H. Gustafson October 21, 2009336, Jackson, MI Donna B. Miskowski November 12, 2009564, La Porte, IN Patricia J. Giesler October 08, 2009564, La Porte, IN George J. Stalun November 04, 2009652, Lansing, MI Chester S. Piskornik October 02, 2009804, Pittsburgh, PA Stella Sutter June 17, 2009* Indicates Bronze Legion of Honor** Silver Legion of Honor*** Indicates Gold Legion of HonorWELCOME NEW MEMBERS - November 2009Sponsors and RecommendersFor New Members - November 2009Sponsor/Recommender Nest, City, state CertificatesMichael Vetter 8, Pittsburgh, PA 1Karyn L. Choromanski 36, Southwestern CT 1Joseph Choromanski 36, Southwestern CT 2Ilene Kennedy 36, Southwestern CT 1Arthur C. Streb 52, Rochester, NY 1John M. Denning 68, Meriden, CT 3John M. Denning 77, Carnegie, PA 1Julia A. Serafin 79, Southgate, MI 2Kathleen M. Stayer 79, Southgate, MI 1Jeffrey Salzano 104, Newark, NJ 2John A. Solomon 123, Erie, PA 3Thomas A. Washington 163, Mocanaqua, PA 1Theresa Washington 163, Mocanaqua, PA 1Bruno Bruce Najaka 163, Mocanaqua, PA 2Jean M Krauser 163, Mocanaqua, PA 1John M. Denning 208, Derby, CT 1John M. Denning 276, Muskegon, MI 1Paul M Haburay 307, Southington, CT 3John M. Denning 430, Auburn, NY 1Teresa M. Singleton 564, La Porte, IN 3Gerald P. Albin 564, La Porte, IN 5Susan M. Blankenship 564, La Porte, IN 1John M. Denning 804, Pittsburgh, PA 3Legion of Honor andStar of Merit ElevationsName Nest, City, State Date of MembershipMaria Kowalczyk-Swat 36, Southwestern CT November 10David A. Scaife 36, Southwestern CT November 10Ila M. Shavron 52, Rochester, NY November 02Rochelle A. Bolind 77, Carnegie, PA November 18Sophie M. Knight 79, Southgate, MI November 02Kenneth L. Van Hooser 123, Erie, PA November 24Terri L. Van Hooser 123, Erie, PA November 24Ann M. Wildes 123, Erie, PA November 18Makayla L. Day 163, Mocanaqua, PA November 18Carl Winckoski 163, Mocanaqua, PA November 06Bonnie Heitzenrater 182, Ambridge, PA November 06Richard G. Heitzenrater 182, Ambridge, PA November 06Harold Le Mieux 276, Muskegon, MI November 10Philip Halibozek 307, Southington, CT November 18Alan E. Mills 307, Southington, CT November 18William Wink 307, Southington, CT November 18Floyd Holt, Jr. 564, La Porte, IN November 18Kimberly K. Holt 564, La Porte, IN November 18Cheryl L. Pumroy 564, La Porte, IN November 18Edward J. Semla 564, La Porte, IN November 18Jaclyn N. Lefler 804, Pittsburgh, PA November 18Jessica A. Lefler 804, Pittsburgh, PA November 18Citizen Pulaski230 years after he gave his life for Americanliberty, General Casimir Pulaski was finally madean American citizen. President Barrack Obamarecently signed a joint resolution of the Senateand House of Representatives that makes thePolish and American patriot an honorary citizen.This is the latest honor to be bestowed uponPulaski, as many geographic place namesthroughout the United States were named afterhim by a grateful American citizenry. Finally, theUS government has followed suit.This time of year especially is when several of our Nests and Districts submitMembers for awards. There are applications required for both Star of Merit and Legionof Honor. The Star of Merit program is the beginning of the Polish Falconsshowing appreciation for the dedication and commitment of our Members. Onemust be a Member at least three years, be at least 19 years old and be activewithin their Nest or District the entire time. Five years later, the applicant may qualifyfor the Silver Star of Merit and five years later, the Gold Star of Merit. The NestSecretary and the Awards Committee Chairperson must sign the application. Theapplication is submitted to the National Vice President, the Executive Committeevotes on these awards. If approved, a certificate and a pin will be sent to theawards chairperson in the recipients’ name.The Legion of Honor program is for Members who received their Gold Star ofMerit at least five years prior to this nomination. Upon Nest or District awards committeeapproval, the Nest or District Financial Secretary and the Nest or DistrictPresident must sign the application before sending it to the National Vice President.The Executive Committee votes on all Members. Following their approval, copiesof the application are sent to the eight Members of the Legion of Honor Commandery.If approved, with a 2/3 vote for Bronze and a 100% vote for Silver and Gold, acertificate, card and ribbon are sent to the awards chairperson in the recipients’name.On both applications, the Members resume must be submitted. This is where theproblems come in. Please keep in mind that while the Member may be very activeand is well known, the Executive Committee and or Commandery Members maynot know this individual. There is a need for detail. As Druh Tremiti says, “ thehigher the award, the more support we need.”List specific events; list the offices they hold (held), what they do exactly. Examplesare chairing a committee, working on a committee, volunteering at an event,participation in District and National Conventions, tournaments, chaperoning foryouth events, donating items, selling, cleaning, teaching, everything they do to supportthe Nest or District.The National Vice President must receive Legion of Honor applications at least60 days prior to the awards presentation. The National Vice President must receivethe Star of Merit applications at least 30 days prior to the event.Recently, a few applications have been denied. Now, I know these Members andknow that they are deserving but their applications did not support this. Therefore,these Members were denied. Please, please take the time to provide the informationnecessary. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me atthe National Office at 1-800-535-2071 or vptrish@polishfalcons.org or Druh LouisTremiti at 585-392-3607 or seabeelou@yahoo.com.SOKÓŁ POLSKI—POLISH FALCON JANUARY 2010 PAGE 10

FALCON NEWSDozynki at Nest 42Polish Falcons Nest 42 Chicago Heights, Illionis, held their combination Polish HarvestFestival (Dozynki), 105th Anniversary and awards banquet on Sunday October 18. NationalVice President Robert Gorny was in attendance as well as District II Vice President CecileKrok, and many District II Nests and local community groups. After a traditional Polish dinner,the Gold Legion of Honor Award was presented to Cecilia Lewis by Honor Chairman JoanBeilfuss. Silver Star Awards were presented to Audrey Gyger, Mary Jensen, David Kozlowskiand Ed Nykaza. Polish Falcon Heritage Singers sang while leading the guests to the HarvestTable to receive wine, cheese and a loaf of homemade bread. A great time was had byall!!!Featured at the left are (left to right) Nest 42 President Lorraine Kozlowski; Silver Starrecipients Mary Jensen, Audrey Gyger, David Kozlowski; Gold Legion of Honor recipient CeceliaLewis, and National Vice-President Robert Gorny. (Missing from picture Ed Nykaza.)Nest 208 AnniversaryNest 208 in Derby, Connecticut,recently celebrated it’s 99th Anniversary.Nest Members andDistrict V guests attended a specialmass at St. Michael's Churchto commemorate the event. Duringthe Mass, Druh Robert Kowalskipresented the PFA flag at thealtar to be blessed (photo onright.) A special sheet cake wascreated for the following festive reception.Congratulations Nest 208!On Sunday, December 6,Nest 208 in Derby, Connecticut,held its yearly meeting atSt. Michael's Church Hall.Dates for the coming yearwere established and they are as follows. Activities of the Nest are: March27- annual Communion Supper following the 4:30 p.m. Mass at St. Michael'sChurch; May 22 - the first Nest sponsored WALK-A-THON for cancer at theDerby River Walkway followed by a hot dog roast on the church grounds(rain date is scheduled for June 12) ; June 6 - working at various booths atthe Annual Picnic of St. Michael's at Warsaw Park; June 26 - Annual MembershipDinner in church hall ;and on October 24 - Nest 208's 100th AnniversaryMass and Banquet.Meeting date schedule is as follows: Sunday, March 7; Friday, April 9;Friday, May 7; Friday, June 11; - Friday, September 3; - Friday, October 1; -Sunday, November 7; - and yearly meeting with election of officers andChristmas party on Sunday, December 5. The Friday night meetings beginat 6:30 p..m. and Sunday meetings at 1:30 p.m.At the yearly meeting election of Officers were held and the followingwere re-elected for another year. President Peter Lenart - 1st Vice-PresidentFrania Tracz - 2nd Vice-President John Kowarik - Recording SecretaryMaryann Stochmal - Financial Secretary/Treasurer Helen Wlodek - InstructorFrania Tracz. House Committee: Bernice Lesnick, Robert Kowalski,Maryann Stochmal, and Terri Wadsworth. Historian Kathy Perez - SunshineDorothy Kopchik - Publicity Frania Tracz and Chaplain Rev. RomanGorowski, C.M., Pastor of St. Michael's Church.Following the elections, Druh John Kowarik, National Director District Vadministered the oathof office of Presidentto Druh Peter Lenart.President Lenart thenadministered the oathof office to all of theother Officers.Immediately after the meeting, a Christmas Pot Luck Dinner was held.The members brought a variety of delicious foods from main course todessert. The highlight of the afternoon was the singing of both Polish andEnglish Christmas Carols and songs. The "Choir" was accompanied on thepiano by Druhna Joanne Slowik. On their way home from Nest 36's yearlymeeting, Druhna Mary Mazur, Druhna Mae Rabovsky, and Druh MichaelRabovsky joined us. During our sing-a-long, everyone sang Happy 101stBirthday to Druhna Rabovsky. Druh Lenart quickly did the math and announcedthat the three ladies sitting together (namely Druhna Mazur, DruhnaRabovsky and his Mother Druhna Bertha Lenart) total 298 years of age. Heattributed their longevity to being active with the Falcons from their youth.We here at Nest 208 wish all the National Officers, and all Falcon Membersa Very Merry Christmas and most of all a Happy, Healthy, and ProsperousNEW YEAR. CZOLEM!Druhna Frania Tracz,Publicity Chair, Nest 208Nest 827 NewsSince October was Polish Heritage month, Nest 827, Chicago, Illinois, donatedtwo books to the St. Cletus Library, LaGrange, Illinois. Mary Delaney, Head Librarian,was very appreciative since the third grade is doing a biography reportand the book donated was The Story of Marie Curie. The seventh graders weredoing a report as well, on the book donated, the story of Maximilian Kolbe ofAuschwitz. Both books were a great asset to their research. The following Membersattended the donation of these books: Lisa Jaskierski, a Member and formerstudent, Mary Delaney, Librarian, Dolores Jaskierski of Nest 827, and Dannyand Margaret Doheny; Members of Nest 827. On October 4, Nest 827 sponsoreda bus trip to the Horseshoe Casino. A special thanks to all that attendedsince without your attendance these event would not have been successful.Czolem,Druhna Dolores JaskierskiSOKÓŁ POLSKI—POLISH FALCON JANUARY 2010 PAGE 11

FALCON NEWSNest 31 Celebrates!Nest 31 celebrated its 117th anniversary with a Banquet and Awards Night on November14. The festive occasion took place at Julianno’s restaurant, as it has for many years, in Warren,Michigan. After a wonderful meal of pork chops, kielbasa, salad, mashed potatoes, breadsticks, green beans and ice cream, there were three awards presented this year to the delightof their families and friends in attendance. Druhna Catherine Smith was presented the GoldStar of Merit, Druhna Cynthia Zembrzuski was presented the Bronze Legion of Honor Crossand Druhna Barbara Wloch was presented the Bronze Legion of Honor Cross. Each of theseMembers are very deserving of their award for participating in Nest 31, District XIII, and Nationalevents like summer camp, conventions, bowling tournaments, volleyball tournaments,Easter and Christmas dinners, and holding Nest offices for numerous years.Nest 31 wishes to thank each of them for their hard work and dedication and looks forwardto their continued support of future events.I wish to make a public apology to District XIII National Director Druhna Janet Knauber fornot introducing and recognizing her at our event. It was an oversight on my part. I am trulysorry for this oversight and will do everything I can to make sure that it does not happenagain.Czolem,Dennis ZembrzuskiPresident, Nest 31Christmas at Nest 652Marianne Tafelski McKimpson of Nest 959 inAllen Park, Michigan, suffered the tragic loss of herson. Her two-and-a-half year old daughter couldnot comprehend the loss. In dealing with the painof the loss, and attempting to explain to her daughterthe consequences of death, Marianne noticedthat answers were not easy to find. This is whenshe began writing down the ideas and questionsthat her daughter presented to her.Marianne has since gone on to become the authorof Playing in God’s Garden, a book she wroteafter the death of her son. The book is ideal forparents and young children who are in desperateneed of guidance, support and understanding.The author is proud of her Polish heritage andhas been a Member of Nest 959 her whole life.Both of her children are Members. She fondly rememberscelebrating many occasions at Nest 959,including her grandparents 50th and 60th weddinganniversaries. She wishes to share her experienceas a mother, with those who need support.Attention Nest 42Youth MembersOn Saturday, December 5, Nest 652 in Lansing Michigan hosted their annualChristmas Party. After the sharing of Oplatek, enjoying the potluck Wigilia,and Santa Claus stopping by, Nest 652 finished the celebration by singingEnglish Carols and Polish Koledy.Polish Falcon Nest 42 Auxiliary isproud to offer two youth scholarships,in the spring of 2010, theAuxiliary will award (2) $500 scholarshipsfor Nest 42 youth Members.Applications will be accepted fromFebruary 1 - March 15, 2010.Requests for application, the criteria,and/or questions can be directto Emily Repking atPFNest42scholarship@comcast.netor you may call Lorraine Kozlowskiat 708-758-7340.SOKÓŁ POLSKI—POLISH FALCON JANUARY 2010 PAGE 12

FALCON NEWSNest 104 - Newark, N. J.Falcons Christmas TreeNest 907 participated in the annual Christmas Tree decoratingat the Brookfield Zoo, in Brookfield Illinois onNovember 22. The attendees were from the Beilfuss,Kazmierowicz, Kulaga, Lada, Sadowski, Skonning, Tracey,and Zaworski Families. It was a beautiful 60 degree dayand we couldn’t have asked for more! It was really fun!Officers for Nest 104 (left to right) Frank Gubernat, Second Vice President;Amy Tafil Coyle, First Vice President; Amy Tafil, Treasurer; StanleyTafil, President; Peter Pietrucha, Financial Secretary. Not pictured:Edward Lenard, Recording Secretary/Instructor.Druhna Colleen KulgaEugene Sadus, ChicagoHeights – Wadowice SisterCities Committee Chairmanand Member of Nest 42,Chicago Heights, displays aposter featuring Lottie Fik, asenior Member of Nest 42.The display was held at theChicago Heights city hall forthe entire month of October,Polish American HeritageMonth.Nest 104 Oath of Officers (left to right) George Andrzejewski (Member);Amy Tafil Coyle, First Vice President; Frank Gubernat, Second VicePresident; Amy Tafil, Treasurer; Peter Pietrucha, Financial Secretary.Not pictured: Edward Lenard, Recording Secretary/Instructor.On Monday, September 14, at a covered dish dinner hosted byNest 430, Auburn, New York, Nest President Mary Rand presented75 year awards to two deserving Nest Members, EvelynSroka and Genevieve Rybash. It was very touching to see thesetwo women show their great pride in their Falcon involvement.Nest 104 Christmas Party at the Polish Cultural Foundation, Clark,New Jersey, December 6.Submitted by Druhna Nancy Sroka, Nest 430.SOKÓŁ POLSKI—POLISH FALCON JANUARY 2010 PAGE 13

FALCON NEWS95 Years for Nest 610Nest 610 in Erie, Pennsylvania, celebrated its 95 Anniversary on Oct. 18. A presentation of awards for bronze, silver, gold,and Legion of Honor recipients followed the prime rib sit-down dinner. Erie’s Mayor, county and state representatives attendedand issued proclamations honoring our Nest. We were also honored to have National First Vice President Patricia Del Busseand Commandery Capatua Louis Tremiti as our guests as well. Featured toasting Nest 610’s achievements (above left) arecurrent President E. Mike Wieczorek, and former Nest Presidents Tony Pol and Rich Valahovic. The group photo on the rightfeatured the Nest’s Legion of Honor recipients along with National and District officers.Submitted by Druhna Barb JaruszewiczA HALLOWEEN WEEK TO REMEMBER FOR NEST 725It all started on October 24th, 2009 with the kickoffof the PFA Nest 725 Annual Halloween Party. Parentsfrom all over and especially from the neighborhoodwere provided a safe (although scary!)environment for the children to enjoy trick or treating,games, music, dancing and lots of fun! There wereFeatured from left to right are Sandra Abendroth, Nest also contests, raffles and many prizes. There wasSecretary, Dance Coach; Lavern Bielicki, Kitchen Duty even a pumpkin on every table thanks to the generousdonation by John and Lynn Okopinski and aVolunteer; and Suzanne Zareczny, Halloween CommitteeChairperson, Nest Treasurer, Nest Instructress andwonderful display, provided by Nest President MarianFundraising Chair.Hansen, which wowed the crowd!Many thanks go to Chairperson Suzanne Zareczny and Vice-Chair Karen Urban, who didan outstanding job organizing, promoting, and working at the event. George Wortz who helpedkeep the crowd entertained and dancing by dee jaying and running the contests and making announcements.Sandra Abendroth and Meagan Wortz along with some of the youth: Alyssa, Bree,Dee and Michelle who helped with the set-up, raffles and the cleanup. The hard working kitchencrew: Chris Borek, Lavern Bielicki, Al Borek and Loida Woods who provided fast service, foodand beverages. William Bielicki who provided and setup the sound and lighting equipment andtook pictures while helping out when needed. Additional thanks go out to all the parents, adults,youth and children who came out to the hall to have a scary and safe time!But, it was only the beginning....On Saturday October 31, more treats were in store for the Riverwest neighborhood as a planto promote all of what the Polish Falcons and Nest 725 have to offer was carried out from 1p.m.-4 p.m. that cold and windy afternoon. Lavern Bielicki, William Bielicki, Sue Zarecznyand Sandy Abendroth handed out treats with "mini-flyers" giving outinformation about the Polish Falcons. It was a unique promotionalopportunity to interact with the children, teens and theirparents throughout the neighborhood when the children cametrick or treating.Although it was indeed cold, we had a lot of fun meetingnew people from the neighborhood and seeing all the cutecostumes on the little ones. It was especially gratifying tosee all the parents who came with their kids! It was very encouragingto see all the new young families. Please check outall the pictures on our website of both of these events: www.pfanest725.orgWith these and many more promotions on the horizon in thenew year of 2010, let's all believe we can increase membershipand continue to provide incredible value and benefits in new and excitinglycreative ways to all our Members.Czolem,Druh William BielickiMember and Webmaster, Nest 725SOKÓŁ POLSKI—POLISH FALCON JANUARY 2010 PAGE 14

FALCON NEWSFrom The DeskOf Chris PuskarNational ZlotThe National Zlot of the Polish Falcons of America will be held in Washington,D.C. from July 25 through August 1, 2010. As I write this article, I am finalizinga “planning” trip to the Washington, D.C. area to work out the last details for thesites for the National Zlot. I will be visiting Trinity University and Gallaudet University.I will be sure to keep everyone updated as the plans unfold. So watchthe next Sokol Polski for the report of my trip.Christmas CardsCongratulations to the winners of the 2009 Christmas card design contest.They are Madison Fischer, age 6 from Nest 725 Milwaukee; Jordan Vargo age10, from Nest 4 South Bend; and Alexis Vargo age 13, from Nest 4 SouthBend. The cards were printed up and put online for sale for Christmas. Theywere packaged with 4 of each card complete with envelopes for $7.50 perpack. They are still available for anyone who would like to purchase them foruse next year. Just go online at polishfalcons.org and follow the directions.Presidentʼs Physical Fitness ProgramHopefully you have read the article in another part of the Sokol Polski thatexplains the new program we will be starting in 2010. The President’s PhysicalFitness Program is a program to help everyone get active and feel better!Since fitness is about improving your endurance and strength and flexibility, wehave found a way to help you that can include things such as walking the dog,cleaning the garage, cutting the grass, swimming, walking, running, and evenbowling. All of these activities are a part of the program. Once you register,you start entering your activities into your account and your points start pilingup. Be sure to check out all the activities that count for points on the website.Along with awards from the program, the Physical Education Department willbe awarding prizes according to your point levels. So take a minute and registeryourself with the Polish Falcons group and start getting active.Youth Bowling TournamentThe 2010 Youth Bowling Tournament is taking place from January 1 throughApril 30. As always, you can bowl at anytime during these months. ApplicationsPFA National PhysicalEducation Directorare available online and can be filled outand returned online. Checks, however,should be mailed to me at the addresslisted below. All entry forms and checksshould be in my hands by the deadline dateof May 1. Please forward any pictures of your group bowling to me and wewill get some in the Sokol Polski and on the website. As in past years, theentries will also be forwarded to the Polonia Youth Bowling Tournament whichthe PFA has won for the past four years. Let’s keep up the good work.2010 Adult Volleyball TournamentThe Twenty First Annual Adult COED Volleyball Tournament will be held onMarch 5 – 6 in Cicero, IL with Nest 907 as our hosts for the weekend. Theentry fee is $60 per participant and $25 per guest. For this tournament, wewill be using our first online registration and payment. The cost of the tournamentis $60 if you register by regular mail and $55 if you register online. Ifyou are mailing in your application, checks should be made payable to PolishFalcons of America and mailed to Druhna Chris. Please see the full article onanother page in the Sokol Polski.Contests 2010Since the contests of 2009 were such a big hit, I have come up with fourmore for 2010. I hope we will get even more entries this year. Remember, allyou need is your imagination and a Polish Falcons membership.Our first contest is for you to design the Polish Falcons of America boardgame. That’s right; use your knowledge of the Polish Falcons and otherboard games to design one for the PFA. It can be a history game, a gameabout our traditions, or a game about the famous people of the PFA. You caninclude things that you like to do in the PFA. Use your imagination and clevernessto create a game that anyone would enjoy playing. All of the detailsfor the contest are on another page in the Sokol Polski. I can’t wait to startplaying!!Czolem!Druhna Chris2010 Youth Contest #1Does your family have a “family gamenight”? Do you like to play board games?Are you a creative and fun person? Here isyour chance to put all of these things togetherand try to win a prize in the first PFAcontest of 2010.The contest challenge is to create a PolishFalcons of America Board Game. Think ofall the things that the PFA stands for and all the fun activities you are involvedin with them. Put it all together to design a game that is all about thePolish Falcons. It can include some of our history, the people, and all thethings you like about the PFA. Use your knowledge of other games and howthey work combined with your Falcon knowledge to design a board gameany PFA member would love to play!The game should be no larger than 24 inches by 24 inches. It can besmaller. You will need to come up with the board design, all the game pieces,and a set of rules for how to play the game.One prize will be awarded in each of the following age groups:Tiny Tots: Ages 4 – 7Preps: Ages 8 – 9Juniors: Ages 10 – 12Intermediates: Ages 13 – 15Seniors: Ages 16 – 18All entries must be postmarked by March 1, 2010 and mailed to:Druhna Chris PuskarC/O Polish Falcons of America381 Mansfield Ave.Pittsburgh, PA 15220Identification:Contestants should include a cover sheet with the following information:Name, Address, Phone, Nest number, Policy number, and Email address.District IV Youth Members raise funds for their tripto the National Zlot.District IV Cash Bash a SuccessOn Saturday, October 24, District IV Pittsburgh held a Cash Bash. It tookplace in the South Side at Prince of Peace Parish hall. There were about 120people in attendance. Funds were raised for the District as well as any otherNest that wanted to have a booth. Nest 8, Nest 118, Nest 176, the StarzynskiScholarship Fund, and the Youth members of the District all had booths andwere able to raise some funds for their cause.There were groups from Nest 8, Nest 118, Nest 146, Nest 176, Nest 182,Nest 247, Nest 449, and a great group of supporters from the Prince of PeaceChristian Mothers.Everyone was treated to a great meal of hot sausage, kielbasa and sauerkraut,pierogi, haluski, and delicious cookies for dessert.Thank you to everyone that sold tickets, bought tickets, donated items,helped in the kitchen, helped with set up and clean up, and did anything else tohelp with the Cash Bash. It was another successful District IV event!!SOKÓŁ POLSKI—POLISH FALCON JANUARY 2010 PAGE 15

FALCON NEWSIn Memory ofTom SadowskiOn November 19, Members of Nest 907 gatheredto bid farewell to one of its own. Tom Sadowskijoined the Polish Falcons of America 37 years ago;he made life-long friends, won the hearts of all, andinfluenced many.Tom worked 40 years for the Federal ReserveBank of Chicago as manager of the coin department.Tom was also our choice for Treasurer of our Nest, aposition he held for many years. The difference betweenthe two was at the Federal Reserve bankchecks are balanced, insuring perfect accuracy. TheNest treasury was not as complicated but alwaysposed a problem from time to time. Tom was a masterat resolving these differences.Tom also took part in the polltics within the Falcons,attending National and District Conventions.One District Convention Tom will never forget waswhen his son Paul Sadowski ran for and was electedPresident of District II. Tom was baffled, surprisedand very proud.The major attraction to the Falcons was bowlingand Tom was a good bowler. He became a Memberof the Falcon Bowling League immediately. Can youimagine 37 years of Thursday night bowling? Thisyear was no different; to begin the bowling seasonbut because of his illness he could not continue.Tom was a major force in organizing the Members ofNest 907 who traveled to all the National BowlingTournaments no matter where they were held. Tomwould start planning months in advance so everythingwould be ready and waiting.One year we failed to confirm our room reservationsand found ourselves homeless and withoutrooms. We did find that some people called a motelthat had the correct amount of rooms we neededand where we stayed. This place at least put a roofover our heads and it brought us a weekend of hilariouslaughter and memories to last more than a lifetime.Tom bowled a perfect 300 game at theNational Tournament in Southgate, Michigan. Afterretiring from the Federal Reserve Bank, Wednesdayafternoons became a sort of practice league with hisneighborhood friends.If you had the pleasure of meeting and being withTom, you know that he loved Polish music. Tomloved it so much he was a member of the InternationalPolka Association. Polish music and the polkawere a main part of his life. He knew all the words toall the Polish songs and sang them loud and clearwhenever the occasion permitted. There was Polkamusic in Tom’s home, while traveling for short andlong distances the music of choice was alwayspolka. The Polish music coming from his deck at hislake house in Michigan could be heard around thelake to the pleasure of all his neighbors. Tom had acollection of original copies of probably every PolishBand in the USA.Tom was also very generous, donating his timeand equipment at many of the Falcon events. Wewill miss him at the District II Legion of HonorOplatek where the Legion Members enjoyed thedancing and singing to his music.Tom served his country with honor and pride duringthe Vietnam era as a Sergeant in the U.S. Army.He served his church St. Thomas More by beingthe President of the Holy Name Society. He wasTreasurer of the Girls and Boys Baseball Associationand still found time to be an assistant Boy ScoutMaster for four years. He loved working with thekids. Tom also was a member of a 12 inch softballteam composed of more mature men and playeduntil he was 60 or so. The entire league came to hiswake.For summer entertainment, Tom joined other Nest907 members enjoying life on Diamond Lake, Michigan.The Sadowski Family is the proud owners oftwo homes because one was too small for Tom’sFamily. Yes, right across the road from one another.Last summer Tom purchased a large pontoon boatwhich held 32 people. He often said that he wantedone that big, so he bought one for himself and, ofcourse, his family. We are all so sorry Tom only hadone summer with his new boat, but he loved everyminute of it. Tom and his family have spent many awinter week-end in Michigan snowmobiling. Nest907 has a snowmobile club who enjoy the frozentundra of Michigan.Tom loved his family beyond words. We thank hiswife Dolores for sharing him with us. You know thesaying, “If you can’t beat them join them.” Doloresdid just that years ago and has been part of us eversince. Tom helped his son Paul every way he couldwith his Falcon knowledge and Polish culture.Paul’s marriage to Beth Pawlukiewicz was a majorNest 907 and family event. Tom’s daughter Andrewand husband Jeff, granddaughters Kendra andAubrey were also in Tom’s heart and everyday life.You see, Tom would watch his granddaughters andloved every minute of it.Tom was born on March 26, 1946 and lost hisshort battle with cancer on November 13, 2009. Hewas a man who became a friend with one handshake. He will be terribly missed. He will never beforgotten and he will be remembered for all he did,all he represented, and for the gentleman he alwayswas.Czolem Tom!The Members of Nest 907Druh TomChaplain’sCornerBy Rev. Canon Joseph SredzinskiPFA National ChaplainNowy Rok – Anticipants – Hopes – PlansWe just commenced with a New Liturgical year with the season of Adventand the grand celebration of the Nativity of Jesus at Christmas. Now wewrite 2010, for we are in a new calendar year and please God with blessingsas we express our desires, our hopes and some plans.Over the years, we have been encouraged to make resolutions. Far toooften too many are not fulfilled. Yet, we can start again we a stronger determinationfor fulfillment of our hopes and plans and wishes for the NewYear.As your National Chaplain I have and we gladly share with you readers ofthe Sokol Polski, my hopes for 2010.1. That we more deeply appreciate and promote the customs and traditionsof our precious heritage. We should mark our doorposts with20+K+M+B+10 as we begin a new year in faith and hope. We can live ourprecious faith with a deeper fervor letting all know we treasure our relationshipwith God through Jesus His Son in the Church.2. “We must promote the needed ‘Culture of life’ as stated by the latePope John Paul the Great. I will March for Life in D.C. on January 22, andcontinue to speak out in defense of the most vulnerable amongst us.”3. That more of our young Falcons and Falconettes gladly participate inthe national Zlot planned for August in Washington D.C. Gathering in thenation’s capital will certainly be an impressive event for Polish Falcons andI, too, plan to be there and cheer our athletes in their various physical exercisesand group events.4. That we have more visible participation in the Grand Celebration tohonor Our Lady of Czestochowa, in St. Paul’s Cathedral in Pittsburgh onThursday, August 26. In 2009, over 1,100 joined the Polish Falcons in a vibrant,colorful tribute to the Patroness of Poland and Polonia. Let’s do itagain for Mary, for Polonia, for our heritage.5. That we fill National Shrine of Our Lady of Czestochowa Church forPolish Falcon Day set for Sunday, September 26 in Doylestown, PA. It’sDzien Sokoli, it’s a Day of Prayer & Blessing – It’s our day. Plan now to bewith us.The above is my list of hopes and resolutions for the New Year.Modle sie i wszystkich Czlonkow naszego kochanego Bractwa zachecamdo udzialu gdzie mozna na Wieksza Chwale Boza i dobra Sokolstwa.Owszew Szczesliwego Nowego Boku i Duzo Lask Bozych.Z Panem Bogiem i CzolemNational ChaplainSOKÓŁ POLSKI—POLISH FALCON JANUARY 2010 PAGE 16

FALCON NEWSNest 88ScholarshipWinnerA college education in today’s worldis extremely vital and serves as an integralgateway to the opportunitiesneeded for future successful living. Italso stimulates and encourages studentsto think, question and explorenew ideas, thereby allowing for additionalgrowth and development, ultimatelyproviding college graduateswith that edge needed in today’s jobmarket.Caroline SlempNest 88 in New Britain understands and supports the educational needs ofits members as well as its members’ children and grandchildren. It thereforepromotes a yearly scholarship to be awarded toward furthering the education ofa deserving scholar.This year’s scholarship, in the amount of $500, was awarded to CarolineSlemp of Bristol, CT, daughter of Nest 88 member, Janusz Slemp. Currrently astudent at Sacred Heart University, Caroline is majoring in Nursing with Psychologyand Honors Studies as her minors. Her goals are to go into EmergencyRoom Nursing for a few years prior to possibly returning to further hereducation in pursuit of either a physician’s assistant degree or becoming aNurse Anesthetist.At Sacred Heart University, Caroline immerses herself in many activities. Sheis actively involved in the Mi Amigo Program, which is a mentoring program forstudents in grades one to five in the Bridgeport, CT community. She alsoserves as Community Service Chair on the Executive Board for the StudentEvents team at Sacred Heart University. This is a team which plans all campusevents for students such as major concerts, comedians, movies and so forth.She participates with this board in planning events within the community aswell, such as a dinner they will soon be cooking and serving at a local shelterfor women and children in Bridgeport.Caroline also tutors Nursing students that are a year below her in the Nursingprogram. She is also the founder and student chair of Sacred Heart University’sRelay for Life on campus, which is sponsored by the American CancerSociety, raising money for cancer research, treatments and patient services.Caroline also aids in a fourth grade inner-city school classroom.In addition to her busy educational and community service schedule, Carolinealso works at the Hospital of Central Connecticut (New Britain General) asa student nurse/nurse technician in the Emergency Department. In her sparetime, she enjoys running, cooking and spending time with friends.Nest 88 is proud to help the educational pursuits of this year’s intelligent andmotivated scholarship winner – Caroline Slemp.Druhna Diane L. Mechlinski,Nest 88 Correspondent72nd National BowlingTournament UpdateMembers of Nest 946, Hillsborough, NJ, are working diligently toensure that you and your fellow Falcon bowlers enjoy the programthat we are preparing for the 72nd Annual Bowling Tournament inHillsborough New Jersey.DJ Music for your listening and dancing pleasure will be providedevery evening at the newly renovated Polanka Hall in Somerville, NJ.The management at the Brunswick – Caroleer Lanes in Edisonare looking forward to helping us to provide you with an unforgettableexperience. We are looking for “Lane Sponsors”, if you are interestedin sponsoring a lane please contact me or Greg Czechowicz. Donationis $25 per lane $40 for two adjacent lanes. Your name will alsobe on the score monitors if the Bowling Alley can accommodate itand on flyers distributed at the site.Food will be available at the Polanka starting Thursday at 6:00p.m., Friday and Saturday starting at Noon. The hot and cold menuis being finalized, but you can be sure that it will offer all the goodiesof a Polish kitchen at affordable prices.Friday night, we will offer a Polish buffet which will include pierogi,stuffed cabbage, kielbasa and sauerkraut, pork tenderloin in mushroomsauce, potatoes, along with a wide variety of salads anddesserts . The cost will be $12 per person. If flying to New Jersey,your best bet will be to fly into Newark Airport (EWR). A rental car willbe necessary to make the 30 minute ride to the hotels. Housing willbe at the Ramada Inn in Somerset (closest to the bowling alley andairport) and at the Hillsborough Executive Days Inn (closest to thePolanka and also it will be our headquarters hotel). Please rememberthe deadline for hotel reservations will be April 5, 2010. Even ifyou are not participating, please stop over at the Polanka located inHillsborough, NJ and be a part of the celebration.The Bowling Commissioner’s meeting will be held at the Polankaon Friday April 23, 2010 at 7:00 p.m.The Polanka will be open every day of the tournament (Thursdayto Sunday) from noon until closing. Additional information will be providedin a future publication of the Sokol Polski. If you need an application,visit our Web site at http://www.polishfalcons.org and click onthe “Bowling” link under the “Adult Activities” header found on theleft-hand side of every Web page. You may also contact DruhnaJanet Knauber by phone at (586) 677-1007 or atmultimech@aol.com. Please keep in mind that the deadline for bowlingentries is February 28!If you have any other questions or need additional information,please contact Tournament Secretary, Druh Ed Ciesla at (908) 565-4884 or cieslaed@verizon.net or Nest 946 President Druh GregCzechowicz at (908) 231-1679 or gregory.czechowicz@yahoo.com.Czolem,Druh Ed CieslaAttention Nests: Need some help here!As most of you are aware, I have been visiting quite afew Nests. The reason behind the visits is to establisha better rapport with the Nests. Another reason is toanswer questions, get feedback, and take back suggestions.A suggestion that I have gotten from a few Nestsis to have Nests share their ideas on their success. Themain question asked by all Nests and Districts is “whatcan we do to increase involvement and participation?”If you would please, send an email, call or send a letterto me sharing what makes your Nest work. Fundraisers,events, mailings, celebrations, anything that workswithin your Nest and/or District, please let me know. Myplan is to compose a spreadsheet with all ideas andshare with all Nests and Districts. Your input is stronglyencouraged and needed.Please contact me at the National Office at:phone: 1-800-535-2071email: vptrish@polishfalcons.orgmailing: Polish Falcons of America,381 Mansfield Avenue,Pittsburgh, PA 15220.Czolem,Druhna TrishSOKÓŁ POLSKI—POLISH FALCON JANUARY 2010 PAGE 17

FALCON NEWSIn Loving Memory....Joseph Andrew MaciejczykJoseph Andrew Maciejczyk, 85, of Sparta N.J., died on Sunday, October18, 2009, at Newton Memorial Hospital after a long illness. He was bornin Hunlock Creek. PA and lived in Sparta for 38 years. Druh Joe proudlyserved his country as a member of the U.S. Army 559 AAA Battalion,where he fought at Normandy and the Battle of the Bulge. He receiveda degree in chemical engineering from Western Maryland College,where he also played football and basketball. He was a member of PFANest 91 for more than 60 years.Walter MaciejczykWalter Maciejczyk, 82 of Shavertown, PA, passed away on Saturday, November14, 2009, at the Hospice Community Care Inpatient Unit atGeisinger South Wilkes-Barre.Druh Walter was born in Hunlock Creek,PA, a son of the late John andVictoria Piwowarczyk Maciejczyk. He was a graduate of Harter HighSchool, attended Wilkes College and was a graduate of LaSalle University.He was a World War II veteran, serving in the American Theater,and member of the American Legion, Post No. 672, Dallas. He also belongedto the Polish American Falcons, Nest 91, Nanticoke.Walter was employed by the Philadelphia Quartermaster Depot as as aplastics technologist and the Picatinny Arsenal as a pyrotechnic engineer.He was last employed by Air Products and Chemicals.Druh Maciejczyk was a member of St. Therese’s Church, Shavertown.He was preceded in death by his brothers, Peter, Jacob, Dominic, Bart,and Joseph (see above); sisters, Mary Mazur, Catherine Rosenthal,Dorothy Killigrew. Surviving are his wife of 50 years Germaine WaskieMaciejczyk; as well as nieces and nephews.Otto J. PomianekWe sadly announce the passing of Druh Otto J. Pomianek, 92, of Elizabeth,New Jersey. Druh was a lifelong resident of Elizabeth, were hewas employed as a maintenance foreman for the city of Elizabeth HousingDepartment for many years before retiring. He was a communicant ofSt. Adalbert's R.C. Church, Elizabeth, and a member of its Seniors Club,the Association of the Sons of Poland, and the Knights of Columbus DeanGessner Council 3310, all of Elizabeth, and Polish Falcons Nest 115 inElizabeth, where he received a Gold Legion of Honor Award for his service.Druh Otto was an World War II Army veteran. He is survived by hiswife of 67 years, Irene H. Hovan Pomianek of Elizabeth; one daughter,Kathleen Kelly and her husband, Louis, of Elizabeth; three grandchildren,Shawn Kelly of Kenilworth, Timothy Kelly and his wife, Linda, of Elizabeth,and Erin McGuinness and her husband, Christopher, of Long Island, N.Y.,and four great-grandchildren. In lieu of flowers, contributions in his memorycan be made to Seeing Eye Inc., 10 Washington Valley Road, Morristown,N.J. 07960.Agnes MarciniakNest 52, Rochester, NY lost it's oldest member.On Nov. 21st Agnes Marciniak, passedaway, just forty-eight days short of her 102birthday.Druhna had been a resident of MonroeCommunity Hospital for the last three years.Her daughter, Dodie Piersielak, PFA NationalCultural Commissioner, said that herMom lived a good full life. She enjoyedbeing around people and could make themsmile, just by being herself.Besides her daughter Dodie in New York,she left family in California, Alaska, and Arizona.Druhna Agnes' funeral Mass was atSt. Stanislaus Kostka Church. The samechurch her parents were married in and where she was baptizedand married.Elizabeth Egan Gould52, formerly of Manchester, MA, passed away peacefully surroundedby her family on October 24, 2009 at McCarthy Care Centerin Sandwich, MA after a long and courageous battle withcancer. She was the loving wife of William Henry Gould and thedevoted mother to nineteen year-old twins Benjamin Egan Gouldand Ellery Elizabeth Gould. Born in Bennington, VT she was theyoungest child of Richard Thomas Egan and the late Rita MierzejewskiEgan, to whom she was a faithful daughter. She was raisedin Manchester, and graduated from East Catholic High School.She was also a graduate of Stonehill College and the Illinois Collegeof Optometry. As a practicing optometrist she served patientsin East Hartford, and Boston, Mashpee and Sandwich, MA. Shewas a dedicated clinician who was loved and respected by her patients.Beth had many friends whom she dearly loved and withwhom she shared her life. Her many hobbies included running,reading, golfing, photograph and spending time on the beach. Sheparticularly loved traveling with Bill and her children. She was alsoa founding member of the Sandwich Kayak Club. Beth’s passionfor life and determination inspired her family and everyone whoknew her. Her greatest joy was participating in Ben and Ellery’smany activities, and she took immense pride in their accomplishments.Even as she struggled with her illness, Beth displayed remarkablestrength supporting her husband and children in everyfacet of their lives. In addition to her immediate family she is alsosurvived by her sister Catherine Egan Pleckaitis of Glastonbury,and Thomas Richard Egan of Los Angeles, CA, as well as numerouscousins, aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews. Druhna was aMember of Nest 580, Pittsfield, MA since November 1, 1967.We Want To HearFrom YOU!Let us know what is happening in your Nestor District so we canpublish it in the SOKÓŁ POLSKI. Please emailyour articles and photos to:communications@polishfalcons.orgMailing address:Polish Falcons of America, 381 MansfieldAvenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15220-2751Deadline: First Tuesday ofeach month.Military ServiceDruh Chest Kotowski, Polish Falcons, Nest 86, Hamtramck,Michigan, is proud of his daughter Sharon’s decisionto serve our country. COL. Sharon KotowskiLucarelli has assumed the Command position of the7304th Medical Training Support Batallion located at FortSam Houston, Texas. This is Colonel Lucarelli’s thirdcommand. She has been a member of the United StatesArmy Reserve for twenty-eight years.She is married to Lawrence Lucarelli, currently a contractorin Iraq. Sharon is a former member of the Polish Falconsof Hamtramck, Michigan. Her parents are Membersof the Polish Falcons, Chester and Irene (deceased)Kotowski, reside in Sterling Heights, Michigan.The Polish Falcons of America wish to congratulate theColonel Lucarelli on her new command, and wish her thebest of luck.SOKÓŁ POLSKI—POLISH FALCON JANUARY 2010 PAGE 18

HEALTH & WELLNESSFalconFitnessby Greg GushardIt’s time for that resolution. Hopefully it’s not the same one you made lastyear. A good resolution to have is to lead a healthier lifestyle. This not onlyshould be a 6-month goal, but a lifelong commitment to eating healthy, and exercisingregularly. If you have been neglecting physical activity, and are planningon restarting, or crafting an entirely new routine, here are some importanttips to remember.Your body is not used to physical exercise everyday. Before you start joggingtwo miles daily, do some warm-ups. Jumping jacks are a great exerciseto begin with, along with push-ups, sit-ups, and lighter activities. This will helpbreak your body in to the strain of daily running.A gradual decrease in junk food is best, if you plan on dieting. Never juststop your routines and expect to like it. You should slowly decrease your dailycaloric intake, to get your body used to the fact that it will be receiving less.This will help you retain some of your energy, while you adjust to the new dietplan.Stay focused on your target weight. It’s a good habit to, realistically, set agoal and stick with it. Don’t be surprised if, at first, the pounds drop off. Thisis mostly excess water weight that is easier to burn off than pure fat. Similarly,don’t get discouraged if it gets harder to lose weight. Counteract this byadding a new exercise to your routine, or adding an extra quick exercise in atthe end of the day. Do not cut out valuable nutrients or food. This will cause asurge in hunger, and potentially lead to overeating.After you have exercised for the day, stretch. Too many times, dieters usethe excuse that their body is sore. It is good practice to always make sureyour muscles have had time to release the energy that you have accumulatedthroughout the day.Look up some low-fat recipes. You want to try something new, right? Wellnow is the perfect time to add a low-fat meal into your weekly menu. Thereare plenty of great resources online, including www.lowfatlifestyle.com,www.foodnetwork.com, and lowfatcooking.about.com. These will give yousome ideas of what you’re looking at.Above all, maintaining a positive attitude is the best way to lose weight.Don’t be fooled by fat burners, or dietary supplements. Only hard work, anddedication will help you succeed in reaching your goals.Let’s face it, it is difficult to lose weight. Those who expect resultsovernight, often revert to their old habits of overeating and cutting out thatevening walk. It’s also difficult to get involved when the air is chilly, and thedays are short. So, while these are fresh in your mind, use them as a roadmap to start your New Year’s Resolution of leading a healthy lifestyle.This Monthʼs Fitness Tips....Did You Know?- The winter season provides natural nourishment in the form ofenergy stored.- The human body generates energy as a protection against thewinter chill.- The stomach uses this energy to strengthen it’s own digestive systemand digest food quickly.- Wheat, millet, maize, gram, moong, moth, black gram, masoor, etc.are especially beneficial to the stomach, and help the metabolicsystem break down nutrients for storage.- You should also take carrots, radish, tomatoes and cucumber in theform of salad, as they increase the amount of energy stored and willmake you feel more full, preventing overeating during the holidays.ATTENTION NEST 104 AND DISTRICT ICOLLEGE STUDENTS: WOULD A $2,000 SCHOLARSHIPHELP PAY FOR SOME OF YOUR ACADEMIC COSTS?QUALIFICATIONS:• Applicants should preferably be a Nest 104, Newark, N.J., Member in good standing for a minimum of one year. In addition.consideration will be given to active members in other District I Nests. If the applicant is not from Nest 104, writtenverification of the applicant’s good standing must be received from a Nest Officer.• Applicants must graduate from an accredited high school with at least a B average and/or be enrolled in an accredited2- or 4-year college with a minimum of 12 credits per semester.• A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 is required.• Applicants must submit an official transcript of academic records and one to three letters of recommendation from (a)directly knowledgeable instructor(s)/advisor(s) and/or administrator(s) as to the applicant’s academic excellence,extracurricular achievements/community service and personal character. If the applicant is a high school senior, an academictranscript or 3 and 1/2 years is to be submitted, followed by the academic transcript for the full 4 years when available.College students should submit the academic transcript through the Fall, 2009 semester, followed by the academictranscript through the Spring, 2010 semester when available.• Applicants must submit verification of acceptance as well as enrollment in the specific college or university.• Applicants should submit an essay or 500 words or less concerning their academic and career aspirations.Entries must be receivedby (4/30/10)NEST 104 SCHOLARSHIP ENTRY FORM(Attach additional sheets as needed)Name: __________________________________ Address: __________________________________________________________________Telephone Number: ______________________ Social Security Number: __________________ Member of Nest 104 since: ____________Describe association with Nest 104 (or other District IV Nest):____________________________________________________________________________________Name and Address of High School attended: ______________________________________________________ Graduation Date: ________Name and Address of College to be attended in 2010: ______________________________________________________________________Level of Grade for Fall ‘10: __________________________ Major: __________________ Minor: __________________ GPA: __________Honors, Awards, Achievements: _______________________________________________________________________________________Extra-Curricular Activities: ___________________________________________________________________________________________Interests and Career Goals: ___________________________________________________________________________________________Applicant Signature: ___________________________________________________________________ Date: ________________________Mail the entry form, along witha recent picture of the applicant,to the following address:PFA Nest 104 ScholarshipPolish Cultural Foundation177 BroadwayClark, NJ 07066Don’t forget to mail thefollowing along with this form:❐ Academic Record Transcript❐ Letters of Recommendation❐ Photograph of applicantYou can also download thisform at the PFA Web site:http://www.polishfalcons.orgSOKÓŁ POLSKI—POLISH FALCON JANUARY 2010 PAGE 19

POL-AM NEWSNEWS BRIEFS FROM POLANDGood EconomyThe Polish economy is picking up steam and continuesto gain speed according to recent data andestimates from analysts. European Union (EU)funding and the Euro 2012 soccer championshipswere both cited as factors that will help the Polisheconomy continue expanding over the next twoyears. Low interest rates, a strengthening zloty,and a high level of domestic consumption werealso cited as positive influences.Euro-Skeptic PolesPoles are sceptical about the benefits of replacingthe zloty with the Euro, with nearly half sayingthey think they will suffer financially from thechange. A recent poll by TNS OBOP found thattwo-thirds of Poles do not think adopting the Eurowill be beneficial and that 25 percent believe it willweaken the country’s sense of national identity.Forty percent feel that the government’s originaltarget date of 2012 for moving to the Euro was tooearly. The poll also showed that those supportingadoption of the Euro tended to have higher levelsof education and income and relatively centrist politicalviews. Students, city dwellers, civil servants,and entrepreneurs also generally favored themove, while those farther to the left or right politicallyand those with lower incomes and levels ofeducation were more likely to oppose it.Poland and other new EU members are requiredto adopt the Euro by their accession agreements,but the timeline for doing so depends on how fastthey can prepare for the shift. The governmenthad originally hoped to be ready to adopt the Euroby 2012, but the global financial crisis and a growingbudget deficit forced it to abandon that goal.Although no new target date has been announced,analysts expect Poland to be ready tomake the move by 2014.The Old Commonwealth Reborn?A report from Reuters indicates that Poland andLithuania want to forge military cooperation withUkraine to try to bring the former Soviet republiccloser to NATO. Under the plan, the three countrieswould form a brigade that could participate ininternational peacekeeping operations under theauspices of the United Nations, the EuropeanUnion or NATO.Eventual membership for Ukraine in NATO is akey issue in difficult relations between the Westernmilitary alliance and Russia after NATO'spledge to admit the former Soviet republic, as wellas Georgia, greatly angered Moscow. The moveby Poland and Lithuania, both of which are EUmembers, came two days before an EU summitwith Russia aimed at increasing cooperation withMoscow. While the latest move could furtheranger Russia, a NATO spokesman welcomed thePolish-Lithuanian plan, saying cooperation couldbuild up trust and capabilities. The three nations,Poland, Lithuania and Ukraine were united forseveral hundred years in a Commonwealth system,during which time they formed a formidablemilitary and political force in Europe.Poland's oldest workerA 95-year-old man who has been working as aleather-goods craftsman for over 70 years wasnamed Poland's oldest worker. Feliks Grejciun ofCzestochowa was found to be the oldest workerfrom a pool for over 500 nominated seniors by thenewspaper Gazeta Wyborcza and the Polish Confederationof Private Employers Lewiatan. "I lovepeople. I now am making things for a thirdgeneration of people. They say: "I hope you live to100 years,'" Gerjciun said.Boared in CracowPolish Radio reports that a wild boar roamingCracow, a city of 750,000 inhabitants, seriously injuredtwo men before hunters killed it after a several-hourchase. Wild boars, common in Cracow'ssuburbs, had posed no threat to people until thisrecent incident in which the boar bit and gored twomen, Polish Radio. The men were hospitalized.An association of hunters kills between 70 and 90wild boar each year in Cracow, to control thepopulation. Wild boars are not a protectedspecies in Poland and more may have to be killedif they pose a danger to humans, local officialstold Polish Radio.ConvictsRestoreJewishGravesNearly adozen Polishprisons anddetention centershavesigned uptheir inmatesto an unusual form of labor - rescuing overgrown,long-neglected Jewish cemeteries. With few ifany relatives left to tend family graves, Jewishcemeteries have fallen into a bad state of disrepairover the decades. The Polish interior ministry'scemetery renewal program is now aimed atreversing this process. "For sure there is timehere to reflect on our life mistakes and sins, butdoing work for others like this also helps our selfesteem," said convict Andrzej, who would onlygive his first name as he swept leaves at the Trzebiniacemetery in southern Poland.Local historian Andrzej Kostka said the prisonershad helped uncover lost tombstones and Hebrewinscriptions. "People come here looking for theirgrandmothers, great-grandmothers, and they arevery glad when they manage to find here a gravebelonging to a relative," Kostka said.Ten prisons across Poland are taking part in theprogram. Prisoners receive instruction in Jewishreligion and culture before starting work. The workis not only physically demanding as they removedecades' worth of tangled vegetation and flotsam,it must also conform to stringent Jewish religiousrules concerning the dead. They had to get specialpermission before touching gravestones."The attitude of the prisoners involved canchange while working here, they can discover newperspectives on life," said prison warden TomaszWaclawek. "The aim of the program is to learnabout our common culture and heritage and tobuild up respect and care for it," he added. RabbiSzlomo Kucera, head of the Jewish community inthe southern city of Katowice, praised the work ofthe convicts. "Respecting the dead is...a very importantcommandment in the Jewish religion, andlooking after graves is a very big spiritual feat. Ofcourse, Jews should mainly look after a Jewishcemetery but given the situation in which we findourselves we are grateful for any help," he said."Anybody who does something demonstrating respectfor our dead will receive their reward inheaven."Pastry ProtectedSt. Martin's Day is celebrated in the GreaterPoland region of Poland - mainly in its capital cityPoznań. On this day, the people of Poznań buyand eat considerable amounts of crescent rolls,made specially for this occasion from half-Frenchpaste with white-poppy and dainties, so-calledMartin Croissants or rogal świętomarciński, Poznanianspeople celebrate with a feast, speciallyorganized by the city. There are different concerts,a St. Martin's parade and a fireworks show. Nowthe people of Poznan can boast that their specialpastry is a unique, protected brand as certified bythe European Union.The tradition of Saint Martin's crescent baking hasbeen cultivated for 150 years. The product has alwaysbeen associated with the Saint's Day duringwhich almost half of its annual production is normallyconsumed. The specialty rolls may now beproduced in 26 counties of the Wielkopolska region.Its unique taste is a result of the traditionalbaking method and the type of ingredients used inthe process.The name rogal świętomarciński, entered the registerof protected designations of origin and protectedgeographical indications. The name maynow be used only by producers who undergo aspecial quality control and have a valid qualitycertificate.Continued on page 21SOKÓŁ POLSKI—POLISH FALCON JANUARY 2010 PAGE 20

POL-AM NEWSNews From PolandContinued from page 20Knock ItDown!Poland's foreignminister has saidthe nation shouldknock down itssocialist symbol,the Palace ofCulture in Warsaw.RadekSikorski saysWarsaw shouldtear down thePalace of Science and Culture – a gift from Stalinin the 1950s - which still dominates the Warsawskyline, just as Germans destroyed the Berlin Wall20 years ago.In Sikorski's opinion, the Palace of Science andCulture is a symbol of communism. Therefore, itsdemolition should also be symbolic, as was thecasewith the mamoth Russian Orthodox Cathedralin Warsaw, which was demolished whenPoland regained independence in 1918 after 120years of Russian occupation.The Foreign Minister claims that the building iseco-unfriendly. It consumes vast amounts of energyand money and will consume even more as itneeds a general overhaul. Sikorski suggests thata park, where Varsovians could relax and organizepicnics, should replace the giant Stalinist buildingin the center of Warsaw.The foreign minister's dream to get rid of thepalace, will not be so easily fulfilled, however, as itis a listed building, as is the Wawel Castle inKrakow and the castle of Teutonic Knights in Malbork.FeatheredGuard DogA courageous roostercalled Max has becomea hero after scaring offwould-be burglars.When thieves attemptedto break into 83-year oldStanislaw Grzelak’shome they got morethan they reckoned for.As they crept up the garden path they were suddenlyconfronted with the raging bird. “The first Iknew about it was when I heard this squawkingand yelling from outside. I went downstairs andsaw Max chasing after three men and taking massivepecks at their necks. They were terrified andclearly in pain,” said Grzelak. “Max is more faithfulthan any guard dog,” he added.Lech TopplesBloc(s)Former Solidarity leaderLech Walesa tipped the firstlarge foam block in Berlin,on November 9, unleashing a cascade of giantdominoes to symbolize the fall of the wall, twentyyears ago. The tumbling of thousands of foamslabs - stretching over a kilometer and a half ofthe old route of the wall, and decorated by Germanschool children, artists and freedom rightsactivists - was part of the climax of events markingthe ending of the separation of east and westBerlin and the fall of communism in central andeastern Europe.Prior to this event, speeches had been givenunder the Brandenburg Gate by world leaders, includinga video address by President BarackObama. Secretary of State Hilary Clinton told thecrowd, who had gathered in the rain: “We rememberthe Poles, who led the struggle for freedomthat started in the Gdansk shipyards. Rememberabout Pope John II, who was an inspiration. Rememberthe people of the Baltic states. Rememberthe students of the Czech Republic. Earlier,Lech Walesa, Chancellor Angela Merkel and formerSoviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev ceremoniouslycrossed an old border in Berlin separatingeast and west.Lech Walesa told the Polish TVN 24 news networkthat responsibility for the fall of the wall, reunificationof German and end of communism was50 percent John Paul II; 30 percent Solidarity and20 percent the rest of the world.“HiddenTalentA man on therun from the lawhas finally beencaught by police,after beingspotted onPoland’s ‘I’veGot Talent’ TVshow. The 24-year old, wantedfor robbery, theftand vandalism,appeared on the popular program singing andrapping before being apprehended. “One of ourpolice officers watches the show and to his surprisehe saw the criminal who has been in hidingsince September last year,” said Adam Jakubiak,spokesman for the Bytom police force.ʻGod Disco” Sets Good ExampleA group of nuns dismayed at the amount of bawdiness,drugs and alcohol at Polish discos decidedto do something about it, by organising their own“God disco”.The nuns from the Polish city of Lodz decided thebest way to get teens to behave themselveswould be to cut all alcohol, ban snuggling, providerooms for prayer, and let them dance all night.They also thought it would be a good way of gettingthe young interested in the Church. Over2,000 revellers packed into the “Heaven Club” inthe city center and partied the night away.“Just look at these crowds. This is the work ofGod and all His great work. It is God’s blessing,”said Father Michal Misiak, one of the organizers.Party-goers were also able to watch a live boxingmatch with Polish hero Tomasz Adamek on hugescreens, while others could take in a “Christian”fashion show.“As increasing numbers of young people give theChurch a wide berth, this is a great way of gettingthem back,” 21-year student Ania told the Polishdaily Super Express.The event was marred slightly when some girlswere caught in one of the “prayer rooms” with acouple of lads. “It seems the boys were prayingfor something, but that’s not the sort of prayer wewould accept here,” said Sister Kamila Malczyk.But most of the partying carried on without incidentand left a smile on more than a few faces.“I’m going home now and will get up in the morningwithout a hangover. For the first time I will remembereverything that happened on a night out,”said Pawel, a student of English.Tusk Boasts of AchievementsPrime Minister Donald Tusk told a conference onhis last two years in power that his government iswidely regarded internationally.Tusk claimed that his government has restoredpride in the nation after the previous Law and Justiceadministration left the country in shame. "Wehave become a great and proud country. Polishprestige has risen thanks to negotiations over theEU energy and climate package. Today the EU isalmost scared at how good our delegations are,"said PM Tusk."Everywhere I go, I hear that Poland has specialistsand ministers of the highest caliber. It is thesepeople that have won such a reputation for thiscountry." At the conference, Donald Tusk alsostated that his government is continuing the fightagainst bureaucracy and that Poland has sufferedthe least in the ongoing financial crisis.Auchwitz Sign RecoveredAn intense, nationwide search across Poland hasresulted in the arrest of five men who dismantledand stole the infamous "Arbeit Macht Frei" ("WorkSets You Free)" sign from the entrance to theAuschwitz Concentration Camp in Oswiecim,Poland. The sign was stolen on December 17,leading to a comprehensive manhunt to nab theperpetrators and recover the artifact. Polish policearrested the men near Turon, Poland, describingthem as “common criminals” who were likelyseeking profit. The sign was found in a snow-coveredforest 200 miles from where it was stolen.Polish police are investigating whether the Nazimemorabilia market may have played a role in thetheft.The thieves cut the sign into three pieces for easyhauling. The three pieces will be welded togetherand restored to the main gate at the formerAuschwitz death camp after an improved securitysystem is put in place to guard against anothertheft.Officials at the Auschwitz Memorial Museum notethat the new security system would be aimed atbetter protecting not just the recovered sign butmany other objects testifying to Nazi crimes thatare located in the former Auschwitz concentrationcamp that is now slowing deteriorating, with manybuilding sinking into the soil. This added cost willonly accentuate the museum's troubles, becauseit is already dealing with dilapidated structures demandingenormous preservation efforts if they areto continue to stand as a testament for future generations.The German government recentlypledged approximately $87 million to help preservethe site, but Polish authorities note that thisis only half of what is needed to preserve the site.Sources: Polish Radio, Polonia News Network,thenews.pl, Polish Market, Rzeczpospolita,Gazeta Wyborcza.SOKÓŁ POLSKI—POLISH FALCON JANUARY 2010 PAGE 21

POL-AM NEWSA Polka CelebrationBy Peter DanielczukNest 36, Southwestern Conn.January is National Polka Month and it is a good time to attend one ofyour local polka dances to show your support. It is also a good time to buy anew Polka CD for your listening pleasure. It is important to show your supportto our great music.As reported earlier, you know that the Grammy Award for Polka was eliminatedand that polka recordings could be entered in the Best Traditional FolkAlbum (vocal or instrumental) category. The five final nominations for thiscategory were announced and Jimmy Sturr was one of them for his recordingentitled "Polka Cola: Music That Refreshes” on the Star Record Label.The Grammy Awards will be given out on Sunday January 31, 2010. Let'sall wish Jimmy good luck on winning another Grammy to show the world thatPolka is not dead.Starr Records has just re-released two CDs in one, called DoubleMagic. The two CDs, originally released in 1990, paid tribute to the music ofBernie Witkowski, one of the most popular polka bands of the 1950s and60s. The CD features not only the Jimmy Sturr Band but the clarinet of JoeMagnuszewski and the accordion of Gene Bartkiewicz, who both performedwith Jimmy during that period. The cd features 24 songs: 17 instrumentalsand seven vocals, and is available from Starr Records, Box 1, Florida, NY10921. It's definitely "Double Magic" at its best.Polkas United, a new free online forum that is designed for all aspects ofpolka music and the people familiar with polka music, is now available on theinternet at www.polkasunited.com. Using technology of the internet, theforum is available to help those who love polka music, unite. It is organizedin a way in which everyone familiar with polkas can share some of theirthoughts, voice comments, and read comments from other people with similarinterests. Visitors can offer their two cents on polkas, polka music, polkadancing, the state of the polka industry and more. They can post comments,thoughts, feelings and opinions and let their voices be heard. Polkas Unitedinvites everyone to discuss polka music so this music genre can move forwardand grow. Join with others to have a positive conversation and increasethe popularity of polka music. Over 200 people have becomemembers as of June 2009. Polkas United is not a polka club or polka organization.No one stands to profit from this endeavor. It is a place whereeveryone can use their computers and the internet to talk about all segmentsof polkas. All generations of polka fans, dancers, musicians, promoters,DJ's, club owners, news writers, composers, record producers, recordingstudios and more are welcome to join those already on the forum. MusicianMike Stapinski is the originator and administrator of Polkas United. Email:forum@polkasunited.comJimmy "Squeezie" Soldridge of Chicago recently passed away of a massiveheart attack. He was an accomplished musician and master accordionist,having made appearances at various festivals in Europe, Canada,Mexico and the United States. His admiration for "America's Polka King,"Frankie Yankovic, would be his inspiration and love for Austrian/Slovenianmusic. Soldridge's music went from recreational to professional, when heperformed with his own band, The Happy Yanks. Soldridge also promotedpolkas on WWVA radio in Wheeling, VA with Judy Stringhill.The Dana Library of Polka vinyl records from decades ago is being restoredand is expected to be available in several months. As with other remasteredrecordings, the restored versions could sound even better than theoriginals. We will keep you updated on this project.A new Slovenian-Style polka show has been added at the Polka JammerNetwork. Called the "Slovenian Polka Hop,” it is hosted by Jim Kucharskiand features the best in Slovenian style accordion-button box polkas andwaltzes. The show will air on Monday afternoons from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PMEDT. Catch it on www.polkajammernetwork.org.The International Polka Association (IPA) has initiated its own channel onYouTube at www.youtube.com/user/ipavideo. For starters, it offers video offive bands that appeared at the 2009 IPA's Festival including Lenny Gomulka& Chicago Push, John Stevenson's DoubleShot, Tony Blazonczyk &New Phaze, Jerry Darlak & Buffalo Touch and Polka Family.The Joey Tomsick Orchestra of Cleveland took top honors at the 22ndAnnual Awards Ceremony presented by the National Cleveland-Style PolkaHall of Fame and Museum. The band, which celebrated it's 25th Anniversaryin 2009, triumphed in all five categories in which it was nominated.Band leader Joey Tomsick was named Musician of the Year, while bandmembers Phil Hrvatin and Hank Guzel Jr. recieved the award for Sidemen ofthe Year. In 2009, the Joey Tomsick Orchestra released it's long awaited CD"Polka Funhouse" which was named Polka Album of the Year, as voted bythe membership of the Polka Hall of Fame. The title track of the Album wonfor Best Original Song of the Year. The Polka Funhouse CD features 16 selections,about half of which are new or originals. You'll find several buttonbox tunes, some snappy new polkas, delightful walzes, the beautiful"Grandpa" song, and the hot Polish-style selection "What Would I Do WithoutYou". You may purchase the award-winning album directly throughJoey's website at www.joeytomsick.com.Our friend John Gora of Canada reports the Hank Guzevich of PolkaFamily was a hit at Pod Papugami (Under the Parrots) Club in Wroclaw,Poland, when he sat in with a popular blues band. "They wanted to test himout when they played the first song in concert," wrote Gora, who is alreadyplanning another trip this year to Poland, "but Hank had no problems."Another great friend, Bill Flynn of the Bill Flynn Polka Show from COOL100 invites you for free style cruising on the Norwegian Spirit from April 11-23, 2010. This "Caribbean Escape" starts in New Orleans with stops inCosta Maya, Santo Tomas DeCastilla, Aruba, Curacao, Hamilton and ends inBoston. For more information call 607-722-2228 (ext 403) or 1-800-690-2261.The Marshfield, WI Convention & Visitors Bureau is sponsoring a Dance& Romantic Weekend on February 12 & 13, 2010 at the Eagles Club inMarshfield, WI. Lenny Gomulka & Chicago Push will play on Friday from8:30 PM to 12:30 AM and on Saturday from Noon to Midnight it will be CraigEbel & DyVersaCo, Chad Przybylski & His Polka Rhythms, a Polka JamSession and Lenny Gomulka. Hotel packages available at www.visitmarshfieldwi.comor by calling 1-800-422-4541 for more information.Polkaman Jack Baciewski who was the founder of The Polka JammerNetwork (with whom I also was a founder) has come up with a new PolkaMusic Internet Network called "Polka Legacy". This exciting new networkwill feature past as well as current polka music plus many other styles ofpolka. I have signed up with Jack to do my Polka Celebration Show and Iwill be on live on Sunday Nights from 8:00 PM to 10:00 PM. Many excitingfeatures are planned for the future. I will keep you updated. Go to www.polkalegacy.com.I will also continue to do my show on 247polkaheaven.comas well as my Saturday morning show on 88.7 FM WNHU from the Universityof New Haven (www. wnhu.net) from 10:00 AM to 12 Noon.A new CD entitled Jammin' At The Cabin has been released by the PolskieSwingmasters & Friends. This CD contains 16 songs and is $15.00each plus $2 for shipping and handling. Make check or money orderpayable to Steve Brill and send to Steve Brill, 112 Maple Drive, Drums, PA18222 or Email: stevbril@ptd.net.Polka Band leader John Gora will be your host MC aboard CarnivalCruise Lines newest ship "Dream" on a great Caribbean Polka Cruise fromOctober 23-30, 2010. This cruise will leave Port Canaveral, FL and visit theIslands of Nassau, St. Thomas and St. Maarten. Headliners include JimmyK, Bruno Mikos, Stephanie, Jersey Polka Ritchie and Stas Golonka. Bandsinclude Mass Brass, New Direction, Craig Ebel & DyVersaCo, The Wave andThe Varitones. For more information and flyer call Dave Bonczkiewicz (NickelcityDave) at 1-602-741-8214 or go to www.nickelcitydave.com.Until next time, take care and God Bless. Remember we are all one family,all one big polka family. God Bless Poland and God Bless America.Czolem,Druh PeterSOKÓŁ POLSKI—POLISH FALCON JANUARY 2010 PAGE 22

POL-AM NEWSPolish-AmericanGenealogyNaturalization RecordsWishing all readers a Happy New Year 2010!Let’s get back to some of the basics. Many family researchers wish to make the jump from NorthAmerica to Poland, or somewhere in Europe. Some of us are fortunate our families told us wherethey were from, but many others kept their origins a “secret”. The “secret” may be for a number ofreasons.1. Our ancestors left in a hurry. Trying to avoid military conscription, harassment from occupyingpowers, or simply, a war. Thus they considered themselves “fugitives” from the government and didn’twant anyone left behind in the home country to be burdened with the knowledge of where theirfamily fled to.2. Many times I have heard that once immigrants landed on the shores of the US, they wanted nofurther dealings with the old country. Let’s face it; they left for many reasons, many of which werenot friendly. Happy and wealthy people don’t drop all their belongings and leave home for good.3. They simply didn’t want to tell others where they were from. Sometimes, it just can’t be explainedwhy there was so much secrecy, but many people do not want others to know their personaldata.4. Some immigrants were simply uneducated and really could not go into details about their origins,All they may have known was that they were from a small hamlet somewhere near Lublin, andthus, said they were from the city of Lublin, when it reality they may have been from Stary Zamosc,100 km away.5. The recent immigrant felt it was neither needed nor beneficial to relive their past, so they simply“started” out with a new life.All of this is fine for them, but we as researchers need that vital bit of information to pursue ourfamily heritage.One very important source would be naturalization paperwork generated in the US. Of course,this meant that our ancestor became a US citizen, or at least filled out preliminary paperwork to becomeone. Normally, it required living here for at least 5 years, BUT there were exceptions to therule. Some men who volunteered to serve in the US military received a shortcut to citizenship, muchas is sometimes done even today. Being from Chicago, I can fully also understand that at differenttimes, for different reasons, a naturalization could be “pushed” through the courts faster. As they stillsay here, “Vote early and often!” More citizens meant more votes and more votes meant obtaining apublic office, so a vote was crucial no matter where it came from.To go through the process in a simplistic method, let’s see what is required.1. Our ancestor first of all considered becoming a citizen.2. He or she filled out the application for citizenship, the Declaration of Intention also known asthe First Papers, assuming the residency requirement was met.3. They later filled out a Petition for Naturalization which meant that they were serious about thisprocess and wished to continue. This could be years later from the Declaration of Intention andmost important, may be located in a totally different court in a new place, often many states awayfrom the first papers.4. They filled out forms which are what we are searching for, BUT many times, the answers canbe quite confusing and downright incorrect. Often, little or no verification was provided that what theimmigrant was stating was accurate.5. Upon successful completion of all paperwork, and taking a simple test, if all was in order,there was a swearing in ceremony in a court and a certificate of proof of citizenship was issued.These citizenship papers should be in the hands of some family member, but many times, they arelong gone.6. There were at least 2 witnesses required to swear knowledge of the petitioner. Many times,these witnesses were either family members business acquaintances, fellow workers, or neighborswho had gone through the process already.For more information, take a look at:www.genealogybranches.com/naturalization.htmlThere are some vital bits of information which need to be discussed here. The initial Declarationof Intention form was shorter and had less information on it (before 1906, it was very limited in information).Even if this is the only form found, it may help us out. It was the first paper to be completedand may be filed in any form of a court, whether Federal, state, county, city, even a police court.Every case is dependant upon the applicant and his/ her own personal story. Most forms I haveseen are either in the Federal Court system or a Circuit Court in a local office. There was no advantageif any of the courts were used, BUT it makes a huge difference where they were filed as that isthe location we will need to search. There is no index for all filings in all courts in one location. Ifyour ancestor filled out paperwork say in the Will County Court of Joliet, Illinois, his paperwork willnot be in the National Archives branch located in Chicago (Federal Records) nor in the CookCounty Court Archives, nor in the Circuit court of Illinois covering Will County. The papers will be actuallyin the Will County court house located in Joliet Illinois. Copies are available and should be obtainedfor every member of our family who became a citizen.to be continued…….Paul S. ValasekHallersarmy@aol.compolish your PolishFISHANIMALS IIIZwierzę IIIRYBYm, n, f denotes male, neuter,female; hh is like ch in lochokoń (OH-koyn) m perchpstrąg (pstrohnk) m troutszczupak(SHCHUH-pahk) mpikeśledź (shlehdj) m herringwęgorz (VEHN-gohsh) mINSECTSOWADYpluskwa (PLUHS-kfah) fmrówka(MRUHF-kah) fpszczoła (PSHCHOH-wah) feelbugantbeemotyl (MOH-tihl) m butterflymucha (MUH-hhah) fPrepared and distributed by the Polonia Media Networkflypająk (PI-yohnk) m spiderkomar (KOH-mahr) m mosquitoosa (OH-sah) f waspkaraluch (kah-RAH-luhh) mCost: $40(includes $5.00 S/H)cockroachHaller'sPolishArmy inFranceAn essential publication forAnyone interested in the historyof the Polish Armed Forces,Particularly the involvement ofPolonia and Polish-AmericansFighting in the Allied EffortIn World War I.Order from:Dr. Paul S. Valasek2643 W. 51st StreetChicago, IL 60632-1559hallersarmy@aol.comSOKÓŁ POLSKI—POLISH FALCON JANUARY 2010 PAGE 23

SOKÓŁ POLSKIPOLISH FALCON381 Mansfield Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15220-2751Jaunuary 2010 No. 1Periodicals PostagePaid In Pittsburgh,PennsylvaniaUSP 500-640Nest News- See Page 11 for details.WWW.POLISHFALCONS.ORGThe New Yearʼs here....How are you scoringwith your CD rates?The Polish Falcons of AmericaThe Strong Family Friendly FraternalThe Polish Falcons CDannuity is now Paying 4.25%Guaranteed for Five years!Let us show you how to score the bestrates. For information call John DenningNational Sales/Marketing Director1-800-535-2071.