Good evening and welcome to our 110th anniversary banquet. We were determined to celebrate this milestone and I am so happy that you are all here with us this evening.
110 years is a long time and in preparing for this event so much went through my mind.
We have a rich history and a very strong foundation. I recognize that over the years we had some great leaders who were driven, creative, consistently introduced new events and embraced opportunities that took the German Hungarians to new levels.
The cultural and soccer traditions remained steadfast no matter what new affairs were introduced over the years and no matter what was popular or going on in the world at that time.
We must hold on to our traditions while including social activities and camaraderie. Over the years, this model has been successful, and we must continue to replicate it.
Since our 100th anniversary we have witnessed many accomplishments and had some wonderful experiences. We have played soccer, danced, competed locally, nationally, internationally, we have hosted events, fests, and international guests, travelled, made friends, and welcomed new members.
Our leaders and members are resilient, and this was apparent specifically during the pandemic. We creatively found ways to get together; keeping everyone engaged – yet safe. We didn’t miss a beat!
In addition to the great members, we have had over the years; The longevity of our organization is a result of many contributors of which I am thankful for.
I would like to convey my thanks to the German clubs for being our friends, supporting us and welcoming us – whether dancing, playing soccer or just good old camaraderie at club events. For all of us it is important that these relationships remain strong.
A special thanks to the Gauverband of North America and the Landesverband der Donauschwaben of USA as these two national organizations continue to present us with awesome cultural opportunities.
The Heimatklänge has been a major part of the German Hungarians and has celebrated many events and milestones with us; “mit Musik geht’s Alles Besser!” And with music everything really is better. Thank you, HK!
Soccer wise – I thank our very own Follmer, Fricker, Piatka and Weber as well as leaders from Phoenix, Kolping SC, Vereinigung Erzgebirge, and a few other organizations for the founding of the United Soccer League back in 1959; this local league has served our men and women well with a high level of competition and involvement.
I would like to thank the twenty-five club Presidents who have served before me, I appreciate and respect their contributions that influenced and molded us into who we are today.
Executive Board, Board of Governors and chair-people I thank you for your friendship, work, and dedication to the German Hungarians. We may have inherited traditions, but it is all of you who have a strong commitment to see them continue.
Our children: and their children are our future as many presidents before me have boasted we have great young people here. And now I am going to say it, we have great young people here! Just as those before us; you work hard, and you play hard. You are all just wonderful and you make me proud on the floor and on the field.
Members, Families, and friends – the future lies before us, and I am excited to see what it holds; the places we will go and the things we will do.
We must set goals – collaborate with others – participate — and host and attend events – because club work and club life will continue to unite our people and keep us strong for many years to come. We must Learn from the past, live in the present and plan for the future. It is important to remember that the level of our success is directly related to our desire to succeed.
Thank you for joining us this evening. Enjoy the performances, food, drink, and camaraderie in celebration of 110 years of German Hungarians!
Janet Fricker Malofiy, President
Featured photo is courtesy of Bob Walter and shows president Malofiy with the Ehrenwuerdig pin recipients in attendance that evening.
L to R: Janet Malofiy (President), Michelle Avrich, Alex Blank, Nichole Deely, Werner Fricker III, Dan Galgon, Michael N. Fricker, Wayne Lepp, Sasha Malofiy Jr., Michelle McFadden, & Cindy Proll.
Also pictured is Chris Deely (Master of Ceremonies) on the far left.
