PRCUA: Official News Release

Photos from the Pre-Convention August 7, 2010 Events

Photos from the August 8, 2010 Opening Mass
Photos from the August 8, 2010 Business Session/Evening
Photos from the August 8, 2010 Luncheon
Photos from the August 8, 2010 Banquet

Photos from the August 9-10, 2010 Business Sessions
Photos from the August 10, 2010 Memorial Mass
Photos from the August 10, 2010 Fraternal Luncheon

Photos from the August 11, 2010 Business Session

Chicago, IL - The Polish Roman Catholic Union of America held its 60^th Quadrennial Convention at the Hilton O’Hare Hotel in Rosemont Illinois from August 8 to 11, 2010. A Pre-Convention Reception was held at the PRCUA Home Office in Chicago on Saturday, sponsored by the PRCUA. Five busloads of guests and delegates were treated to a delicious buffet in the PRCUA Social Hall and tours of the home office and the museum, which concluded with an open bar and wonderful entertainment in the Great Hall of the Polish Museum of America (PMA).

Jaclyn Krysinski, of the Arrangements Committee, welcomed guests and expertly served as Mistress of Ceremonies of a program that focused upon the musical talents of PRCUA’s juvenile members. She introduced Nicole Kwasny, 7, and her sister, Alexandra, 13, who delighted guests with their lovely violin music. Both girls are also dancers with Little Polonia and Young Polonia of the Northwest Center of Traditional Polish Dancing. Their performances were followed by Paulina Pieniaczek, 18, a talented vocalist from Polonia Ensemble, was sang beautifully in Polish. Daniel Szefer, 11, an award-winning pianist, impressed the audience by playing musical selections by Chopin, Grieg and Rachmaninoff. He is a piano student of the famous Alexander Zintchenko, takes master classes with Professor Pawel Chechinski and studies musical composition with Professor Lazar Trachenberg. All the performers made the PRCUA proud and their music/singing was much appreciated. It was an enjoyable way for delegates and friends to join together to celebrate the Convention.

The official opening of the Convention was the Opening Mass held at St. Stanislaus Kostka Church in Chicago, IL, where Rev. Anthony Bus, C.R. is the Pastor. Concelebrating the Mass were PRCUA Chaplain Rev. Walter J. Ptak, Main Concelebrant, PRCUA Vice Chaplains Rev. Anthony Iwuc and Msgr. Stanley Milewski, as well as Rev. Anthony Bus, C.R. and Rev. Marcello JesuMaria of St. Stanislaus Kostka Parish. In a sense, the PRCUA was coming back to its roots because this is the Parish where the PRCUA had its first office in Chicago, under the leadership of its co-founder Rev. Vincent Barzynski, CR.

Mass was followed by a luncheon in the school cafeteria. In the late afternoon, National PRCUA President Wallace M. Ozog, FICF, called the 60^th Quadrennial Convention to order. He has served the PRCUA as President for 12 years and as Vice President for 12 years. Serving with him as officers of the Convention until the Presidium was elected were: Resident Vice President Anna Sokolowski, who has served in that position for the past 8 years and Secretary-Treasurer Josephine Szarowicz, who has served PRCUA in that position from 1998 to 2010, and has been General Secretary from 1990 to 1998, Treasurer from 1986-1990 and as Director of District 7 from 1978 to 1986. The organization is grateful to these Executive Officers for their many years of loyal and dedicated service to the PRCUA.

The following persons were elected to the Presidium: Convention Chairperson Joan Smuda, Esq., of Chicago, IL, who also chaired the last two Conventions; Vice Chairman Julius Szymczyk of Warren, MI; Vice Chairlady Micheline Jaminski of Homer Glen, IL; and Secretary Agnes Dahar of Toledo, Ohio.

Historically, this was an important Convention because the entire Constitution and By-Laws of the PRCUA were revamped by a PRCUA Task Force, appointed at the previous Convention to bring the governing rules of the organization into the 21^st century.

After a short Convention Session, delegates gathered in the Ballroom for the Convention Banquet. Lucia Seranko, Chairperson of the Arrangements Committee of the Pre-Convention warmly welcomed all the delegates and guests. Other members of the Arrangements Committee are: Vice Chair Steven Cieslicki, Secretary Jaclyn Krysinski, Elizabeth Sadus and Vickie Kroplewski. M.C. Steven Cieslicki then introduced the officers and directors as they gracefully promenaded into the hall, Polonaise-style, being escorted by members of PRCUA’s Polonia Ensemble and Wesoly Lud Polish Folk Dance Ensemble.

Next, Annette Nowakowski led the group in singing the American National Anthem and Paulina Pieniazek led the singing of the Polish National Anthem. Rev. Canon Anthony D. Iwuc, PRCUA National Vice Chaplain offered the Invocation, after which everyone enjoyed a delicious dinner of prime rib or salmon fillet.

Delegates were delighted to be entertained with a graceful and energetic Mazur by the PRCUA Polonia Ensemble, under the direction of Cecylia Roznowska, Artistic Director and Choreographer; Anna Krysinski, Director; Mieczyslaw Dzis, Musical Director and Iwona Puc, Teacher and Choreographer. This was followed by Dances and Songs from Spisz beautifully performed by the PRCUA Wesoly Lud Polish Fold Dance Ensemble, under the direction of Misia and Richard Jaminski, Artistic Directors and Choreographers. Both performances were magnificent and much appreciated by the audience.

National President Wallace Ozog addressed the assembly with brief remarks and PRCUA National Chaplain, Rev, Walter J. Ptak, closed the evening with Benediction. Dinner and dancing music was provided by the very talented Anthony Kawalkowski Orchestra.

Monday’s schedule consisted of Convention Sessions which began at 9 a.m. and included addresses by special guests. Frank Spula, President of the Polish American Congress and the Polish National Alliance, who is also a PRCUA member, addressed the group saying, “It is through helping others that we help ourselves” and that is the important function that Polish fraternals serve in our communities.

Consul General of the Republic of Poland in Chicago, Hon. Zygmunt Matynia, said it is his great honor to attend in the PRCUA Convention. He said he visited the PRCUA and PMA three years ago, when he first came as Consul General to Chicago, and that the PMA helped him when the Consulate was being renovated, by allowing the Polish Consulate to hold its events at the PMA, for which he is most appreciative.

Timothy Kuzma, President of the Polish Falcons of America, addressed the delegates saying that, “It’s exciting to know things are going to be different and you should think of it as a new beginning – that all possibilities are open to you and there’s nothing you can’t do. Have that attitude as an organization.”

Sharon Zago, Vice President of the Polish Women’s Alliance of America, extended greetings from PWAA President Virginia Sikora, who was out of the country and therefore unable to attend. She said that she was proud to be among the four vice presidents of Polish fraternals who joined together to show the united force of Polish Americans in Chicago. PRCUA, PNA and Polish Falcons were also part of that group.

Maria Ciesla, President of the Polish Museum of America, addressed the group, emphasizing the importance of PRCUA financial support for the PMA.

Joseph A. Lecznar from the Cleveland Society of Poles and from P.A.V.A. Kosciuszko Post #152 of Cleveland, Ohio extended best wishes to the delegates for fruitful deliberations from his the two organizations that he represented.

Regular Convention business sessions continued with the report of the Actuary, Joseph Steimla, followed by the report of the Budget and Grievance Committee: Eileen T. Hanley, Chairperson of Sparks, MD; Elizabeth Kwasniewski of Franklin, WI; Teresa Gibala of Erie, MI; Joseph A. Drobot, Jr. of Bloomfield Hills, MI; and Edward Muszalski of Burbank, IL.

This was followed by a report of the Task Force, Chaired by Greg Olma of Buffalo, NY. Other members of the Task Force included: Marsha Mikuszewski of Adams, MA; Mary Louise Turkiewicz Nowakowski of Buffalo, NY; Walter Schultz of Philadelphia, PA; Michael Turkiewicz of Portland, OR; John Borkowski of Parma, OH, Susan Plewa of Milwaukee, WI; President Emeritus Edward Dykla of Barrington, IL; Anna Toltzman of Rockford, IL; Michaeleen A Lamont of Hammond, IN; Christopher Ozog of Madison Heights, MI, along with advisors Donald V. Versen, Sr., of DesPlaines, IL, Chairman of the Long-0Range Planning Committee; William Marutzky of Chicago, IL, Chairman of the Constitution and By-Laws Committee and Ted Klamerus of Dearborn Heights, MI, Chairman of the Redistricting Committee. With applause and official comments, the delegates demonstrated their appreciation for the monumental job that this Task Force accomplished in revising the Constitution and By-Laws of the PRCUA. It was decided by the delegates that their Proposed Constitution warranted further discussion and possible amendments, and would be voted upon the next day.

This was followed by the report of the Redistricting Committee with Thaddeus S. Klamerus, Chairman, of Dearborn Heights., MI; Stephan J. DeLonka of Schaumburg, IL; Dolores L. Krysztofik of Trenton, MI; Michael L. Krajewski of Toledo, OH and Bernice Adamkiewicz of Warren, MI. They concurred with the recommendations made by the Task Force regarding redistricting matters. Eventually the districts and the number of directors remained the same: ten districts and 15 directors.

Then the Constitution and By-Laws Committee gave its report. Members are William F. Marutzky, Chairman, Chicago, IL; Christopher Pasternak of Warren, MI; Richard Orlowski, Jr. of Pittsburgh, PA; Mary Ann Zielinski of Center Line, MI and Pamela Tuytens of Chicago, IL. They also concurred with the recommendations made by the Task Force.

The Telegraph Committee reported that they received a telegram from Barbara Raczynski Toboy of Wyandotte, MI, outgoing Director of District 10, who was unable to attend the Convention, based upon the advice of her physician, since she was due to deliver her second baby any day. Nevertheless, she sent her greetings to all delegates and guests, praying for insightful deliberations and wishing everyone all the best.

The Long Range Planning Report was given by the following committee members: Celeste Prussak-Klein of Akron, OH; Konrad Borkowski of Carpenterville, IL; Michael Purcell of Riverview, MI; and Frank Zacharias of Hamtramck, MI. Donald Versen, Sr., Chairman, from Des Plaines, IL has been recently hospitalized and although he was unable to attend the Convention per se, he did come in a wheelchair for the election and promptly returned home. His efforts were greatly appreciated. The committee recommended developing the property next to the PRCUA home office, establishing free internet postings where members can offer things they no longer want, to other members. The also suggested the appointment of a Senior Coordinator by the Fraternal Department, more family oriented activities such as picnics and a family camping weekend, as well as continuing to support the PMA and its Library.

Executive Editor Kathryn Rosypal reported on the status of the Narod Polski newspaper and also read comments by Managing Editor Lidia Kowalewicz, who prepared the History of the Sports Department Exhibit that was displayed at the Convention. She reported that the winner of the Society Convention Contest was St. Stan’s Society #718 who received $137.00 for having the most members convert from the paper version of Narod Polski to the internet version. Winner of the Narod Polski Adult Essay Contest was Avalon Williams of Chicago, IL. She will receive a check for $75.00 plus two books for a total value of $137. The winners of the Juvenile Art Contest are: 1^st prize 6-8 category: Nicole Kwasny of Chicago, IL; 2^nd prize Samuel Kuhn of Toledo, OH; 1^st prize for 9-12 category Agata Grabowski of Munster, IN; 2^nd prize Daniel Kuhn of Toledo, OH; 1^st prize 13 to 15 category Alexandra Kwasny of Chicago, IL; 2^nd prize Nathaniel Kuhn of Toledo, OH. First prize winners will receive $50.00 and second place winners will receive $25.00.

The session continued with various committee reports being given until 9:30 p.m. After breaking for the evening, delegates were asked to read the proposed constitution and give their final comments to the Task Force by Midnight.

On Tuesday, the day began with the Fraternal Memorial Mass for all deceased PRCUA members. It was held at St. Constance Parish in Chicago, IL, where Rev. Thaddeus (Ted) Dzieszko is Pastor. Beautiful music and singing was provided by Brother James, who was visiting from Ohio.

This was followed by the Fraternal Luncheon held at White Eagle Banquets in Niles, IL. Resident Vice President Anna Sokolowski enthusiastically welcomed guests. Rev. Walter Ptak gave the Invocation and everyone enjoyed a family style meal. Entertainment of several performances of Polish songs and dances were provided by PRCUA dance groups: Polonia Ensemble, Wesoly Lud Polish Folk Dance Ensemble and dancers representing five Michigan dance schools: Halka, Opole, Mala Polska, Zajaczek and Zakopane. All the dancers gave outstanding performances and did a great job.

After the Invocation and Pledge of Allegiance, the Tuesday session called for the report of the Candidates Qualifications Committee: Paul Kuhar, Chairman, of Allen Park, MI; Kelly Salatowski of Wyandotte, MI; and Malgorzata Kot of Schiller Park, IL. By the time voting began, there were 300 delegates in attendance at the Convention.

The session focused upon making a few changes to the proposed constitution and electing the officers and directors of the new administration. The initial election went on until approximately 1 a.m., however run-off elections were needed for the office of Vice President and Secretary-Treasurer. The final results of all elections were announced between 3 and 3:30 a.m. to weary delegates who stayed up to maintain a quorum in the hall.

The following National Executive Officers and National Directors were elected for a four-year term of office:

National Officers

President – Joseph A. Drobot, Jr. of Bloomfield Hills, MI

Resident Vice President - Anna Sokolowski of Downers Grove, IL

Vice President – Robert Bielenda of Redford, MI

Secretary-Treasurer - James Robaczewski of Chicago, IL

Chaplain – Reverend Walter J. Ptak of Wyandotte, MI

Vice Chaplain – Reverend Canon Anthony D. Iwuc of Providence, RI

Vice Chaplain Reverend Monsignor Stanley E. Milewski, P.A. of Orchard Lake, MI

The final session of the Convention on Wednesday morning was opened with an Invocation by Monsignor Stanley E. Milewski, PRCUA National Vice Chaplain. Delegates approved giving President Wallace M. Ozog the status of President Emeritus of the PRCUA, along with all the rights and privileges that go with that position. He was accorded a loud round of applause in appreciation for his many years of service to PRCUA. Secretary-Treasurer Josephine Szarowicz was also thanked for her dedication and service to the PRCUA as a director and/or officer for 32 years.

Then the newly-elected officers processed into the Convention Hall, each accompanied by an entourage of family and friends.

President-Elect Joseph A. Drobot, Jr. addressed the Convention, saying: “It’s [being elected President] humbling, to say the least. It’s challenging, even more so. I will work 24/7 for the Polish Roman Catholic Union of America. I want to thank a lot of people – most of all my wife – because she assured me that in the successful pursuit of this position, she will move to Chicago.” Without that promise, this would not be possible.

He also mentioned that he and his wife, Judith, would be celebrating their 45^th wedding anniversary on Saturday, August 14, 2010. He also thanked his children, their spouses and especially all his enthusiastic grandchildren, who campaigned masterfully for their grandfather in the halls of the hotel. Most of his family attended the convention, including: Kathryn and David Sznewajs with their children Max, Jack, Charlie, and Henry; and sons Timothy and Michael Drobot. Daughter Julie and her husband, David Miller, and their children Bella, Noah, and Evie - who live in Portland, Oregon - were not able to attend. Joe Drobot’s sister, Ann, her husband Bob Macek, and their two daughters Kristi Mihalik and Laurie Carver (with her two sons Joshua and Matthew), as well as Joe’s cousin, Dorothy Ford, were also in attendance. Joseph A. Drobot, Jr. is the third national president of the PRCUA to come from St. Hedwig's Parish in Detroit, MI!

Mr. Drobot went on to thank Ted and Sally Klamerus for their encouragement, as well as Ed and Pat Mylenek, the Budget and Grievance Committee on which he has served for decades, and the Michigan PRCUA Societies, who held a fund raiser in support of his campaign. He also thanked PRCUA St. Stan’s Society #718 and Soc. #162 of Wyandotte, MI for their support, as well as Kelly Salatowski and Barbara Toboy, Director of District 10, for their hard work.

Mr. Drobot recognized and thanked President Wallace Ozog for his many years of service and acknowledged Joann Ozog as “the one who shook up the Polish Museum of America and got the cobwebs out of it.” First Lady Joann Ozog, who has collected over a million dollars to benefit the Polish Museum of America - and who has collected thousands of dollars through conducting fund raisers on behalf of the PRCUA Education Fund - received a standing ovation from the delegates and guests for her outstanding achievements and remarkable legacy.

President-Elect Drobot said he and the Board of Directors will work for the members. He also extended an olive branch to everyone who did not win, with the hope that – after time heals the hurt – he will be able to solicit their help in continuing to work for this wonderful organization. Mr. Drobot also acknowledged his mother and father, saying that if his Dad had a dream, it was that his son would rise to the position in the PRCUA that his Dad had loved so dearly. (Joseph A. Drobot, Sr. had served as National PRCUA President from 1978 to 1986). He said the family misses his parents to this day and that if his Mother were here, she would say (in Polish) “Go with God.”

Delegate Mark Ozog announced that President Wallace and First Lady Joann Ozog would be celebrating their 44^th wedding anniversary on Thursday, August 12, 2010. They were accorded applause.

The Convention closed with Benediction being given by PRCUA Chaplain Reverend Walter J. Ptak. The Chaplains, Executive Officers and Directors will be inaugurated on Sunday, September 12, 2010 and will take office thereafter.

Now, the PRCUA looks forward to a new administration and hopes that it will bring about a

renewal of life insurance sales and a reduction in costs. The PRCUA has served Polonia for 137 years and looks forward to serving its members – in bigger and better ways - for many more years to come.