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Sokol Fall 2026

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Issue No. 3 Fall 2026

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Sokół Polski

See page 12!

Executive Editor Courtney Caughey-Stambul Graphic Designer Tiarra McGinnis The Sokół Polski (Polish Falcon) is published quarterly by Polish Falcons of America. The Membership Magazine has been the official publication of PFA since 1896. Polish Falcons of America National Headquarters 1016 Greentree Road, Suite 201 Pittsburgh, PA 15220-3125 Phone: 412-922-2244 Fax: 412-922-5029 Email: info@polishfalcons.org Web: polishfalcons.org Sent to all premium paying Members without charge.

NATIONAL BOARD OF DIRECTORS Chairperson Daniel Michalak Vice Chairperson Thomas Eckert DIRECTORS District II – Jeffrey R. Beilfuss District IV – Cheryl Paterni District V – John Kowarik District VI – Mark Albin District VII – Thomas Washington, Jr. District IX – Rebecca L. Sienkiewicz District XIII – Charles Johns EXECUTIVE STAFF National President Joseph Napiecek Secretary/Treasurer & CFO Ryan Wesolowski Vice President of Fraternal Operations Courtney Caughey-Stambul Physical Education Director Elizabeth Schaefer Legal Counsel Richard J. Federowicz

Winter Issue Submission Deadline: Nov. 9, 2026

National Chaplain Rev. Timothy Whalen

POSTMASTER Send address changes to: Polish Falcons of America 1016 Greentree Road, Suite 201 Pittsburgh, PA 15220-3125 Periodicals Postage Paid In Pittsburgh, Pa. USPS 500-640 MOVING? Please complete the change of address form online by visiting polishfalcons.org/additional-resources. SUBMISSIONS Any articles on Nest and District activities including photos may be submitted for consideration via email to info@polishfalcons.org or by mail to PFA National Headquarters. Poor quality or damaged photographs will not be considered for publication. We are not responsible for typographical errors in transcribing material that is handwritten. All submitted materials become the property of the Polish Falcons of America and may be used to promote the mission of the PFA. Materials will not be returned unless requested. © COPYRIGHT 2026 Polish Falcons of America. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without written permission. Printed in the USA. Please Recycle. Printed by Gazette Printers, Indiana, PA. www.gazetteprinters.com.

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A Letter from Timothy Kuzma, National President

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A Letter from Patricia Del Busse, Vice President

10 2027 PFA National Bowling Tournament 11 Hands in Action 12 2026 PFA Youth Poland Tour 17 Sauerkraut Soup 18 130 Years of Connecting Falcons

EDITOR'S CORNER Welcome, Fall! As the leaves begin to turn and a new season gets underway, we have plenty to celebrate here at Polish Falcons and in this issue of the Sokol Polski. This special edition marks a remarkable milestone—the 130th anniversary of our publication—while also honoring two longtime leaders of the Polish Falcons of America, President Tim Kuzma and Vice President Trish Del Busse, as they begin their well-deserved retirements. And, we’re looking back on an exciting new chapter for our organization: the inaugural PFA Youth Poland Tour. From unforgettable experiences to meaningful connections with Polish culture and heritage, the tour allowed our young Falcons to see their roots in a whole new way. I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to Tim and Trish for their years of dedicated service and leadership to the Polish Falcons of America. It's been a true pleasure and privilege to work with both of them, and I'm grateful for all they have contributed to our organization. I'm excited to announce that I've taken over Trish's role as Vice President and will continue my duties as Communications Director. We'll share more about our leadership transition in our next issue. Here’s to celebrating 130 years of Sokol Polski, honoring those who've helped shape our future, and looking ahead to all that’s still to come. Happy Fall, and as always, happy reading! Czołem!

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After decades of dedicated service, two of Polish Falcons of America’s leaders have reached a well-deserved new chapter. National President Timothy Kuzma retires after an extraordinary 41 years, while National Vice President Patricia Del Busse concludes 26 years of devoted service. Their years of commitment represent far more than time; they reflect countless hours of leadership, advocacy, collaboration, and dedication to the mission and Members of our organization. Through their respective roles, Tim and Trish have helped shape Polish Falcons of America, guided its growth, and left a lasting mark on the Members and colleagues they served alongside. As they step away from their leadership roles, each took a moment to reflect on their years, the people and experiences that shaped their journeys, and what this organization has meant to them. We are honored to share their retirement messages, the reflections of two leaders whose dedication will remain an important part of our organization’s legacy.

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A Letter From Timothy Kuzma, National President It’s difficult to put more than four decades into a few pages. However, on August 31, I will retire from Polish Falcons of America after more than 41 years with PFA, including 18 of them as National President. I have known for quite some time that this day was coming, but knowing that and actually reaching it are two different things. PFA has been part of my life longer than my employment. I first became involved as a young Falcon through my home Nest in Ambridge. At that time, I certainly never imagined that PFA would become such an important part of my life, or that someday I would have the privilege of serving as its National President. I began working for PFA on February 20, 1985. Like most people starting a new job, I focused on what was immediately in front of me. I wasn’t thinking about where I would be 10 years later, much less more than 40 years later. Over those years, I had the opportunity to work in different areas of the organization, learn from many people, and eventually take on greater responsibility. When I became President, I understood that the position came with an obligation that went well beyond a title. The decisions made by a President affect our Members, our employees, our Nests and, ultimately, the future of the organization. There's been many good years and many accomplishments, but there's also been difficult times and difficult decisions. That’s part of leadership. Not every decision is popular, and not every problem has an easy solution. I’ve always tried to approach those decisions by asking one basic question: What’s in the best interest of Polish Falcons of America and its Members? I’m sure there were times when people disagreed with my answer. That comes with the position. But I can say that I never took the responsibility lightly. PFA has changed considerably during my years here. The world around us has changed as well. Fraternal organizations face challenges today that would have been difficult to imagine when I started in 1985. The insurance industry has changed. Technology has changed. Our communities have changed. The way people volunteer and participate in organizations has changed. Through all of that, we have tried to keep PFA moving forward while remaining true to what makes us Polish Falcons. There are many accomplishments that I could list, but I don’t want this article to become a résumé of my years as President. Almost everything we accomplished was the result of many people working together. Presidents receive a great deal of attention, but organizations don't succeed because of one person. 4

I’ve been fortunate to work with dedicated officers, employees, Nest and District leaders, Boards, volunteers, and Members throughout the country. Some of those relationships lasted for decades. Others came along more recently. All of them contributed in some way to my experience at PFA. I especially want to acknowledge our employees. I’ve always believed that PFA has been fortunate to have people who cared about this organization and were willing to do more than simply perform a job. During some of our most challenging periods, our staff continued to work, adapt, and do what was necessary. I’ve also been fortunate to work with several dedicated executive officers during my years as President—John Kuzmirek, Robert Gorny, Dan Michalak, and, most recently, Ryan Gregg. Each served PFA in important executive leadership roles and brought their own experience and perspective to the organization. I appreciated their service, their counsel, and their willingness to share in the responsibility that comes with leading PFA. Likewise, I want to recognize our Legal Counsel, Richard “Joe” Federowicz, who served three PFA Presidents, including me. During my years as President, Joe was an invaluable resource and a trusted adviser. His knowledge of PFA, its history, and its governance proved a tremendous help to me on many occasions. He’s also a student of Polish history and culture, which brought an added dimension to his understanding of our organization and its mission. I always appreciated his willingness to offer thoughtful counsel, explain legal issues clearly, and, when necessary, tell me what I needed to hear. I’m grateful for his many years of service to PFA and for the support he provided to me throughout my presidency. There is one person, however, who has been there every step of the way. Trish Del Busse and I have worked together for 26 years. During all 18 years of my presidency, she has been the constant I could always rely on. She has been my Vice President, my colleague, my sounding board, and my friend. There were countless times when she carried responsibilities that few people outside the office ever saw and stepped in whenever and wherever she was needed. Through the good times and the difficult ones, her support of me as President never wavered. Having someone beside you whom you trust completely is something you can’t put a value on, and I’ll always be grateful to Trish for everything she has done for PFA and for me personally. There are many others I could name, and inevitably I would leave someone out. I hope everyone whom I had the pleasure of working with understands how much I appreciate what they contributed to the organization over the years.


Former Institute of National Remembrance President, Dr. Karol Nawrocki, presents President Kuzma with the Custodian of National Memory award in 2023.

Tim, Trish, and John Kuzmirek at the 2024 National Bowling Tournament in Ambridge, Pa.

One of the most rewarding parts of my presidency has been the opportunity to strengthen our relationship with Poland and with organizations that share our heritage and values.

For more than 41 years, there has always been something next. Another Board meeting. Another report. Another convention. Another project. Another problem to solve. Another trip to plan. Another deadline. For the first time, there really isn't. That will take some getting used to.

My visits to Poland, building our relationship with the Institute of National Remembrance, our friendships with Falcons in Poland, and our involvement with the worldwide Sokol movement have all taken on special meaning for me. Our Youth Tour to Poland this past June was a particularly appropriate experience near the end of my presidency. I enjoyed traveling with our young people and watching them experience Poland together. Our goal was not simply to take them sightseeing. We wanted them to gain a new understanding of their heritage and of the history that connects them to those who came before them. They were a great group of young people, and I believe we accomplished that mission. Watching them experience Poland brought back memories of my own first visits to Poland in the 1980s. Poland was a much different place then than it is today. Those early experiences gave me a new perspective on my heritage and a deeper appreciation for the Polish Falcons, which may be one of the most important responsibilities PFA has going forward. As I look back, I also recognize how much PFA has given me. It gave me opportunities I never expected by allowing me to travel, meet extraordinary people, and develop friendships throughout the United States and Poland. It strengthened my connection to my Polish heritage. It allowed me to serve an organization and community that’s been a part of my life since I was young. Most importantly, it brought countless people into my life who otherwise never would have been there. When you spend this many years with an organization, it becomes difficult to separate your professional life from your personal history. Board meetings, conventions, tournaments, Nest visits, trips to Poland, staff meetings, celebrations all become part of the story.

PFA itself, however, will continue. Leadership changes. Employees retire. Organizations move into new chapters. I’m fortunate to help with the transition. That’s the natural course of things. I wish our new leadership every success. They will face challenges, as every generation of PFA leadership has, but they will also inherit an organization with a long history, dedicated employees, and Members who care deeply about its future. I hope that those who lead PFA in the years ahead will respect what previous generations built while also having the courage to make the changes necessary for PFA to remain strong and relevant. Those two ideas are not in conflict. In fact, I believe both are necessary. I've never believed that PFA belonged to any President or any particular group of leaders. It belongs to its Members. We’re simply entrusted with it for a period of time and have an obligation to leave it in the best position we can for those who follow. My period of stewardship is now coming to an end, but there is something about this transition that I find particularly meaningful. Long before I was an employee, an officer, or National President, I was simply a Member of Polish Falcons of America. After August 31, the titles and responsibilities will change, but this will still be true: I’ll still be a Falcon. For everything PFA has given me, for all of the friendships, experiences, and memories, and for the privilege of serving as National President for the past 18 years, I simply want to say thank you. It’s been an extraordinary journey. Czołem! 5


A Letter From Patricia Del Busse, Vice President Life sure does surprise us in many ways; things we do along the way often take us down a path we’ve never considered. When we were kids, my brothers joined the Falcons because our neighbors (the Pawlowskis) were always having fun going to Falcon events. At the time, I was taking dance lessons at Mamie Barth School of Dance (where my Mother had attended as a child). One night as we left the studio, I was angry with my instructor and told my Mom that I wanted to quit. She then said I could go to the Falcons instead. (That was back before parents asked their children what they wanted to do!) On March 1, 1965, I became a PFA Member and began taking classes with Nest 118. My first District IV Zlot was that July. I was a Member just long enough to participate. That 4th of July weekend was spent at Falcon Park in New Kensington, Nest 41! Wearing my black leotard with a hole under the arm since it was actually too small, I came in first place in free-ex with an 8.2! I can still remember most of that routine (doubt I can do it though!). My memories of that weekend are quite vivid considering it was over 60 years ago. There were so many people there. The competitions were held outside, even all of the gymnastics. My brother Brad was 5 and got stung by a bee that flew up the white T-shirt of his uniform. My other brother, Bud, caught a fish in a jar from their creek flowing through the grounds.

From the age of 10, the Falcons were a major part of my life! At that time, the Districts were very active, and I participated in events like volleyball tournaments and Zlots (where I heard a starter gun for the first time and nearly had a heart attack!) I also played in one basketball tournament at the Nest 182, Ambridge gym—even though I didn’t like basketball and wasn’t very good. I was fouled, much to my chagrin. But I made a foul shot and leapt into the air because I was so happy!

In 1968, eight Nest 118 girls and several Nest 8 boys boarded a bus and headed to New Haven, CT, for a National Zlot held at Quinnipiac College! Again, so many of us! When I went to high school that year wearing my Quinnipiac jacket, my biology teacher was in shock, as she was a Quinnipiac graduate. The next National Zlot in 1972 was held at Notre Dame in South Bend. Hundreds of us performed the ball drill where Nest 118 placed in the top three. The exhibitions were amazing, as there were so many Falcon Members competing, doing drills, and making friends.

I got married the first time in 1973 and wasn’t as active, but I still participated in the District IV Volleyball tournaments. My sons, Jim and Greg, were born in 1976 & 1977. It wasn’t long, and I was divorced—this is important to the story! In the meantime, all of my friends had joined the Nest 118 Bowling League. I was put on the waiting list (yes, back then, it took time to join). I was finally able to join and bowled every Wednesday night for years. Of course, that led to me bowling in District and National Bowling Tournaments with way too many stories to share here. So many new friends, too much fun! Our Falcon league moved to early Tuesday evenings. While bowling, I bumped into an old friend of my Dad’s, Rick Del Busse. Fast forward, Rick and I got married in 1990. For a wedding gift, I received golf clubs! At the time, I didn’t golf! In 1994, I went to the bowling tournament and was asked to go to the National Golf Tournament. I came home and asked Rick about it. He said sure and told me to ask Bill Eveland to get another person for a foursome. I paid $75.00 for golf lessons and learned to enjoy the game! In Batavia, Bill Eveland and Rich Young from Nest 52 golfed with us.

Trish presents Tim with a few gifts at their joint retirement party.

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The next year, in Erie, we golfed in a mixed foursome again. Well, then holy hell broke loose because the boys weren’t allowed to play with the girls! It was brought up with the Golf Commissioners, and I wasn’t permitted to golf with Rick. I said, well, then I’ll start going to Nest meetings and go to the National Convention (which was being held in 1996 in Pittsburgh).


Quarterly Board of Directors Meetings, Executive Meetings, Special Meetings, FSGP Meetings, PA Fraternal Alliance Meetings, American Fraternal Alliance Meetings, Nest Meetings, District Meetings, District Conventions, Instructor Clinics, Instructor Meetings, National Conventions, too many funerals… Of course, the absolute best moments were my interactions with the Membership. Phone calls and emails regarding events, both good and bad, at the Nests. Processing awards was usually a fun experience. My favorite committee was the Scholarship committee because I was dealing with the younger (not always) Members. My first official visit was the Installation of Officers at Nest 52, Rochester, NY. While visiting the Nests, here are a few examples of the fun I had with so many of you: • Nest 6 – Ladies' Day luncheon to benefit Breast Cancer Awareness • Nest 8 – Christmas Parties and picnics Tim and Trish receive presentations from Courtney Caughey-Stambul at their joint retirement party.

I started attending Nest 118 meetings, became Vice President, and then President. I attended the 1996 Convention as a Delegate (of course, the golf rule didn’t get changed there) and got more involved with the PFA by attending District IV events other than golf and bowling. During this time, Dutch Surman called me (while I was preparing to attend the Bal Polonaise) and suggested that I run for National Secretary/Treasurer as Ted Kokoski had to retire due to Constitution rules. I found this humorous and mentioned it to Rick. He wasn’t amused and told me to think about it. So in the fall of 1998, I registered with some accounting classes.

• • • • • • • • • • •

Nest 36 – Celebrating May Rabovsky’s 100th Birthday Nest 68 – eating steamed hamburgers Nest 88 – freezing to death to get there but dancing all night Nest 123 – St. Casimir’s Day Mass and lunch (men and women sat on opposite sides of the church!) Nest 146 – National Bowling tournament with us staying at the Shenango Inn Nest 163 – Lunch after golf Nest 307 – working the Southington Apple Festivals Nest 519 – jumping (not actually) in the lake for Special Olympics, talent night Nest 580 – stood inside a money machine to catch money for the scholarship fund Nest 610 – award banquets in the fall Nest 652 – Swiezonka

The first year of National Youth Camp was held in Angola, NY, in 1998; volunteers were needed, so of course, I went. The first year, I had the little girls! The next year, I had teenage girls, which I had in my cabin every year until I no longer went to camp.

These are a very small group of memories; I have many more!

At the National Golf Tournament in Saginaw, Michigan (1998), I won first place, Peoria division. But more importantly, Bobby Joe Gorny came over and suggested that I run for a National Office in 2000. Bob intended to run for second VP. Again, at another National Golf Tournament in Rochester, NY (1999), Bob Wienczkowski proposed that I run for a National Office. That was three men of different ages who lived in different places who thought I belonged here in the National Office.

In 2008, Rick retired and moved to Myrtle Beach. The entire time we were married, I said I was not going. He went; I did not. We divorced. I met John Nicpon at a bowling tournament in the early 90s, and we became good friends. Now John and I are married (in our minds). It’s better to be married to a Falcon because he gets it—volunteering at events, serving as an Officer, and being very supportive of all I do with and for the Polish Falcons of America. John attends a lot of events with me and helps out with anything that needs to be done. He rarely needs to be asked! There are so many more highlights; I can’t even begin to list them all.

In 1999, I was elected as District IV President, but only served one year, as the Constitution didn’t allow one to hold a District and a National Office at the same time. This incredible ride began at the National Convention held in Chicago, IL, in 2000. I was elected National Vice President. Fortunately for me, Tim Kuzma had decided that he no longer wanted to be VP but Secretary/Treasurer. My first day of work was Tuesday, August 1, 2000. These 26 years have been so full!

Serving as National Convention Chair was a blast for me. My first one was via Zoom back in 2020 due to the pandemic. In 2022, we held a special Convention at SNPJ mainly for Constitutional revisions. Then in 2024, I once again served. 7


In 2000, when I first became Vice President, Wally Zielinski was President, Bobby Joe Gorny was second Vice President, and Tim was Secretary/Treasurer. Joe Federowicz was and is Legal Counsel; Joe is a very special person who has helped so many of us personally. Joe has a heart of gold and is a very dedicated Falcon Member. Our staff is always a determined, hard-working group of individuals. We’ve lost a few along the way, but the work ethic of those who work for the PFA is always one of dedication and commitment to the PFA Members.

What a learning experience; Falcons is not all fun and games. Fortunately for me, I got to deal mostly with the fun stuff! Once Tim became President, I was encouraged to become a stronger, valued Member of the Executive Team. Tim and I have a great working relationship and complement each other’s personalities. Tim always asked my opinion and listened to me. He didn’t always take my suggestions, but he listened, and we discussed them. I appreciate the responsibilities he entrusted to me, his support, and his confidence in me to do what was needed. Tim is also my friend, and I cherish this friendship! For me, I will continue to be the National Golf Commissioner, so I will be involved in golf. John and I will still go to the National Bowling tournaments and other Falcon events. I’ve said this several times, and it remains the same. I believe in the Polish Falcons of America. I integrated the Falcon Member that I was before I held this Office with the expectations and faith of the Delegates who elected me to this position.

Tim receives his Gold Legion of Honor medal.

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To put my own stamp on the Office of National First Vice President, I’ve been visible and accessible to the variety of Falcon Nests and Districts that comprise our organization. While actively participating in what our wonderful organization has to offer across a broad spectrum of activities, I have utilized the contacts I have made to communicate and better understand our diverse Membership and what they expect of the National Office. I’ve appreciated the advice of our seasoned Members, while listening to the hopes and ideas of our younger Members. While my style may not be suited to everyone, my diligence, integrity, commitment, and enthusiasm for the Office of First National Vice President entrusted to me have not wavered. Thank you for the memories, the friendships, the education, and the support. I have worked with so many Board Members and Executive Officers. Working with Bobby Joe, Dan, John Kuzmirek, and all the other Board Members has etched memories in my mind. So many stories, but we have all been dedicated to the Membership of the PFA!

My confidence in the new administration is very high; I look forward to their commitment and dedication to the PFA. Courtney will now sit in my chair, and I’m positive that Courtney will put her mark on this position in her own unique way! Czołem!


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Polish Falcons 87th National Bowling Tournament St. Louis, Missouri April 22-25, 2027 | Drury Hotel • RECONNECT WITH OLD FRIENDS • MAKE NEW MEMORIES • ENJOY COMPETITIVE BOWLING • LIVE BANDS BOTH FRIDAY & SATURDAY • FUN FOR BOWLERS & SPECTATORS

Book Your Room Now! Reservation Method: Individual Call-In Online Reservations: druryhotels.com Phone: 1-800-325-0720 Reference Group #: 10172674 Whether you’re bowling or cheering, join us for an unforgettable weekend! 10


Hands in Action: PFA’s Youth Service Program PFA encourages Youth Members to be active in their schools, clubs, and communities through acts of service. New in 2026, Youth Members meeting a minimum of community service hours will be recognized for their charitable contributions.

Minimums • College students: 60 hours annually • High School students: 50 hours annually • Grades 5-8 students: 10 hours annually Youth Members who submit their hours to PFA National Headquarters will receive a Certificate of Recognition, and those with the most hours in each age group will receive a prize. Hours should be submitted to Elizabeth Schaefer, National Physical Education Director, at eschaefer@polishfalcons.org by December 31, 2026.

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A Trip to Remember: The 2026 PFA Youth Poland Tour What started as an idea in the summer of 2025 came to fruition on June 20, 2026. President Kuzma approached newly appointed Physical Education Director Beth Schaefer about the possibility of a Youth trip to Poland in the summer of 2026. After multiple meetings, the details were finalized, and the trip was ready to be announced to the organization. by elizabeth schaefer, national physical education director

February 16, 2026, was the day registration opened for the trip. At noon, registrations started coming in from both youth Members and chaperones. We quickly reached twenty Members and had enough chaperones to make the trip run smoothly. Many Zoom meetings and e-mails with all participants followed. Those attending the trip were all set to meet at JFK Terminal 1 for our departure to Warsaw, Poland, on June 20, 2026. Early on June 20, a group of travelers met at Pittsburgh International Airport to begin their journey to JFK. Once everyone gathered at Terminal 1, we proceeded to check in for our flight. Some grabbed dinner, others walked around, and others charged their devices for the long flight to Poland. When it was time to board, the trip that seemed so far away was actually happening. We found our seats, and we were ready for departure.

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In Warsaw, we gathered our belongings, cleared customs, and met Adam, our tour guide. At the hotel, we freshened up and went for a walk to explore Warsaw before dinner. Warsaw was a beautiful city to explore, with history all around us. Some buildings still stand as reminders of how far the Polish people have come from the days of Communism. We toured the IPN building, where our archives are stored, and got to see the steps taken to preserve an artifact. Warsaw is the capital city of Poland and is home to the residence of the President and the Parliament building. We also explored Czestochowa, a small town home to Our Lady of Czestochowa. We got to see the various dignitaries buried within the walls and the majestic altar of the Black Madonna. Lunch that day ended with a "how many pierogi can you eat" contest—there was not a pierogi left on any of the plates!

Later on, we visited Krakow, which has a vast history to explore, from its buildings to Wawel Castle. At the castle, we climbed to the top of the bell tower and enjoyed a breathtaking view of the city that pictures simply don’t do justice. We viewed the Underground Museum, which depicts the city's history and how Krakow became what it is today. We then took a short drive to the Wieliczka Salt Mine and went two hundred meters underground. Everything in the mine is carved from salt, and even the walls are made from salt! Inside the mine sits St. Mark's Chapel, where Mass is celebrated every Sunday morning. We all spent the night in the mine as one big, happy Polish Falcons of America family—and survived being in a room together. Auschwitz-Birkenau was our next stop—a somber one. We toured Auschwitz and saw what people endured when they arrived at the gates. Unfortunately, our tour of this area was shortened due to a heatwave.


We then traveled to Rzeszow and participated in the grand opening of the Sokol exhibit. There we met Damian Malecki, President of the World Sokol Foundation, who spoke briefly with our group. We also met a group of Sokol youth at their building and watched them perform gymnastics. We spent an afternoon with them along the river; you would’ve never known there was a language barrier between the two groups of youth. Nowy Sacz was our next stop and another opportunity to meet with a local Sokol. We toured an open-air museum, learned how to make a local roll (and sample it!), and relaxed with games, and time spent enjoying each other's company. Zakopane was our final stop on the tour of Poland. We hiked in the Tatra Mountains to take in the landscape. The Sokols in Zakopane were excited to see us and to tell us about their history.

Throughout the trip, we had Polish lessons to help us communicate with the local people. The Youth Members didn’t seem to have much trouble with the language barrier. They were engaged in the lessons and occasionally tried to speak to one another in Polish. To be immersed in Polish culture and heritage for twelve days was an amazing experience. We got to see where our ancestors came from and what their lives may have looked like in Poland. Yes, we may eat Polish food here in America, but the food we ate in Poland was so delicate and flavorful. We had many types of pierogi, zupa, kielbasa, breaded pork chops, quartered potatoes, and desserts. If anyone went hungry on the trip, it wasn't because there was a lack of food. Because our visit coincided with a European heatwave, our group also consumed plenty of lody (ice cream).

Was it a lot to take twenty-four Youth Members to Poland? Yes. Is it something I would do again? Maybe in the future. Hearing the conversations and laughter, and seeing their smiles every day, made the trip worthwhile. We may have walked twenty thousand steps per day, but they always had smiles on their faces. Would they complain about seeing another church or historical building? Yes, but they enjoyed it at the end of the day. This group will have a bond unlike any other in the organization. They can say they went to Poland together and shared the experience of a lifetime. The pictures may show what happened on the trip, but the memories in our hearts and the stories of those pictures will remain with us forever. Czołem! 13


, e d fa y a m d le ve a tr e w s The mile d e n e th g n re st e w s ip sh d n ie fr but the e d a m e w s ie or m e m g in and the last will stay with us forever.

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The Best of the Journey by timothy l. kuzma , national president

The 2026 Polish Falcons of America Youth Tour to Poland was about much more than visiting historic places. For me, its greatest value was seeing our young Members experience Poland firsthand—its history, culture, traditions, and, perhaps most importantly, the connections that still exist between Polish Falcons of America and the broader Sokol community. I also genuinely enjoyed traveling with this group of young Falcons. From the beginning, one of our primary goals was to give them a new, deeper insight into their Polish heritage—not simply through books, photographs, or stories, but by allowing them to experience Poland for themselves. They were a great group to travel with, and it was rewarding to watch their reactions as they visited historic sites, met young people in Poland, and became more comfortable with the culture around them. I believe we accomplished the mission we set for the tour. Moreover, one of the most meaningful moments of the trip was our visit to the Institute of National Remembrance (IPN) Archive in Warsaw. Over the past several years, PFA has entrusted a significant portion of our historical archives and artifacts to IPN for preservation. Seeing our young Falcons walk through the archival facilities, learn how these materials are conserved and digitized, and understand that the history of Polish Falcons of America is being preserved as part of the history of Poland was particularly meaningful to me.

Another highlight was the opportunity to meet with our fellow Falcons in Poland. In Rzeszów, we participated in the opening of a Sokol exhibition and spent time with Dr. Damian Małecki, President of the World Sokol Federation, as well as members of the Polish Sokol movement. Our young people also had opportunities throughout the trip to meet and interact with Sokol youth and members in Rzeszów, Nowy Sącz and Zakopane. Those meetings reinforced something I have come to appreciate more and more: although an ocean separates us and we may speak different languages, we share a common history, traditions, and Sokol spirit. Watching young Falcons from America and Poland play sports, talk, laugh, and simply enjoy being together was one of the best parts of the entire trip. We wanted this tour to give our young Members memories that would last long after they returned home. More importantly, we wanted them to come away with a stronger understanding of where they came from and what their Polish heritage means. Based on what I saw throughout those twelve days, I believe we accomplished that— for me, that was the real success of the trip.

The visit also allowed me to recognize two people who’ve played an important role in preserving our history. I had the privilege of presenting Marzena Kruk, Director of the IPN Archive, with the Gold Cross of the Legion of Honor of the Sokol, and Grzegorz Trzyna with the Silver Cross of the Legion of Honor of the Sokol. Neither Marzena nor Grzegorz knew the presentations were coming, and their complete surprise made the moment even more special. We were also honored to have Dr. Karol Polejowski, President of the Institute of National Remembrance, join us. During the visit, he presented me with a commemorative medal honoring the Battle of Monte Cassino. I was deeply honored by the gesture and by the continuing friendship that has developed between IPN and Polish Falcons of America. 15


Our Sincerest Thanks by timothy l. kuzma and elizabeth schaefer

The success of the 2026 Polish Falcons of America Youth Tour to Poland was the result of the efforts and support of many people, and I want to express my sincere appreciation to everyone who helped make this experience possible. First, I want to thank the Polish Falcons of America Board of Directors for its support of the tour and for recognizing the importance of giving our young Members an opportunity to experience Poland, their heritage, and the international Sokol community firsthand. A special thank you to Beth Schaefer, PFA National Physical Education Director, whose work, planning, and attention to the countless details involved in organizing an international youth tour were essential to its success. What began as an idea became a reality because of many months of preparation. Thank you as well to our PFA staff, chaperones, parents and families, and to the Nests, Districts, Members and individuals who supported the tour and our young travelers. Every contribution— whether financial, organizational, or simply offering encouragement— helped make the trip possible. Our sincere gratitude also goes to our many friends and hosts in Poland. The Institute of National Remembrance, especially Marzena Kruk, Grzegorz Trzyna, and the staff of the IPN Archive, once again welcomed Polish Falcons of America with extraordinary hospitality. We also thank Damian Małecki and our fellow Sokols in Poland, along with the local Sokol organizations and young people who welcomed our group and shared their time, traditions, and friendship with us.

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Moreover, thank you to our tour guides from Genealogy Tours, Adam Zalewski and Tom Szymkowiak, and to everyone who helped coordinate our travels throughout Poland. Finally, thank you to our young Falcons. You represented Polish Falcons of America extremely well. Your enthusiasm, curiosity, willingness to try something new, and the friendships you developed made all of the planning worthwhile. A trip such as this doesn’t happen because of one person. It happens because an organization believes in its young people, and many individuals are willing to work together to give them an experience they will always remember. To everyone who played a part in the 2026 Youth Tour to Poland—Dziękuję. Thank you.


Sauerkraut Soup kapuśniak recipe by the late robert strybel, the polish chef

Ingredients: • • • • • •

½–¾ lb meaty pork bones or ribs

• • • • • • •

1 bay leaf

8 cups water 1 tablespoon salt, plus more to taste 2 carrots 2 stalks celery 1 onion, plus 1 additional onion for the bacon mixture 5 peppercorns 1 quart sauerkraut 4 slices thick-cut bacon, diced 1 heaping tablespoon flour 1 teaspoon sugar, optional 1 teaspoon caraway seeds or ½ teaspoon ground caraway (optional)

• Black pepper, to taste • Reserved sauerkraut juice, as needed

Directions: 1. Make the pork stock. Place the pork bones or ribs in a large pot with 8 cups of water. Bring to a boil and cook for about 1 hour, skimming off any foam or scum that rises to the surface. Add 1 tablespoon salt, the carrots, 2 stalks of celery, 1 onion, bay leaf, and peppercorns. Continue cooking until the meat is very tender and easily pulls away from the bones. 2. Prepare the sauerkraut. While the stock cooks, drain the sauerkraut, reserving the liquid. Rinse the sauerkraut under cold water and drain well, pressing out as much excess moisture as possible. Chop the sauerkraut if the pieces are large. 3. Strain the stock and cook the sauerkraut. Remove the pork and strain the stock, discarding the vegetables and seasonings. Return the strained stock to the pot. Add the sauerkraut and cook uncovered over medium heat for about 30 minutes. 4. Add the pork. Remove the meat from the bones, discard the bones and any unwanted pieces of fat, and cut or shred the meat into bite-sized pieces. Add the meat to the soup. Reduce the heat, cover the pot, and continue cooking until the sauerkraut is very tender.

5. Prepare the bacon and onion. While the soup cooks, fry the diced bacon in a skillet. Add the chopped onion and cook, stirring frequently, until the bacon is browned and the onion is softened and lightly browned. 6. Thicken the soup. Ladle about 1 cup of hot soup into a bowl. Whisk in the heaping tablespoon of flour until completely smooth and free of lumps. Slowly stir this mixture back into the soup. Add the browned bacon and onion, including the flavorful drippings from the skillet. 7. Finish cooking. Stir well and simmer gently over low heat for another 15 minutes. Turn off the heat, cover the pot, and let the soup stand for at least 15 minutes so the flavors can blend. 8. Adjust the seasoning. Taste the soup. If you prefer it more tart, add some of the reserved sauerkraut juice, a little at a time. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste. If desired, add 1 teaspoon sugar and 1 teaspoon caraway seeds (or ½ teaspoon ground caraway). Serve hot.

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130 Years of Connecting Falcons: The Anniversary of the Sokol Polski For 130 years, Sokol Polski has been a voice for the Polish Falcons of America. It has been a way to share news, recognize Members, report on the activities of Nests and, perhaps most importantly, keep Falcons connected. From its beginnings as a modest monthly publication in Chicago to today's combination of print and digital issues, Sokol Polski has continually evolved with the organization and the generations of Members it serves. Its pages have chronicled PFA's history, but they’ve also become part of that history themselves. by courtney caughey-stambul, communications director

A Voice for a Growing Organization The story begins on September 1, 1896, when the first monthly issue of Sokol was published in Chicago. Its editor, Stefan Barszczewski, agreed to take on the work without compensation. An annual subscription cost $1, while Falcons Alliance Members could subscribe for 50 cents. The publication continued on for nine years, providing an early means of communication for an expanding Polish-American movement. In January 1908, a new monthly publication, the Sokol Gymnastic Guide, appeared in Chicago under the editorship of Stanislaw Osada. Unlike the earlier Sokol, this publication focused primarily on physical culture and education, including gymnastics, educational issues, and reports from individual PFA Nests. At the time, the Polish Falcons were affiliated with the Polish National Alliance (PNA), and organizational news and official matters were published separately in the PNA newspaper, Zgoda. That arrangement, however, would soon change. 18

By 1909, differences within the Polish Falcons led to a division in the organization. Eighteen Nests organized a movement separate from the Polish National Alliance. While continuing to use the name Alliance of Polish Falcons, this group established its headquarters in New York. Meanwhile, another group of Falcons remained in Chicago and continued its affiliation with the PNA. It was during this period of division that a new Sokol Polski emerged. On August 1, 1909, the first issue of Sokol Polski was published in New York under the editorship of 22-year-old Wladyslaw Nalecz-Koniuszewski. The publication became the voice of the New York-based Alliance of Polish Falcons during this pivotal period in the organization's history. The division between the two groups was temporary. In December 1912, the two wings reunited at a convention in Pittsburgh, restoring the Polish Falcons as an independent national organization. The following year, Sokol Polski moved to Pittsburgh and became a weekly publication. Its relocation coincided with the establishment of Pittsburgh as the Polish Falcons of America's National Headquarters, beginning a new chapter for both the organization and its official publication.


The publication was becoming more than just a newsletter­—it was becoming the written connection between Falcons separated by geography.

A Publication That Recorded History and Made History As the decades passed, Sokol Polski documented far more than meetings and organizational announcements. Its pages reflected the interests, concerns, and activities of Polish Falcons and the broader Polish-American community, including some of the most consequential moments in the struggle for Poland's independence. In 1917, as the United States entered World War I, renowned Polish pianist, statesman, and patriot Ignacy Jan Paderewski addressed a special convention of the Polish Falcons in Pittsburgh. He called upon the organization to support the creation of a “Kosciuszko Army” that would fight for Poland's liberation. The Polish Falcons had long emphasized physical fitness and military preparedness, and Paderewski's appeal resonated deeply with the organization and the Polish-American community. Thousands of Polish Americans ultimately volunteered to fight for Poland's independence, including many Members of the Polish Falcons who joined the Polish Army in France, later known as General Józef Haller's Blue Army. The events surrounding World War I represented one of the most significant chapters in the history of the Polish Falcons—and the pages of Sokol Polski helped preserve the organization's story during this defining era. The publication would continue to connect its Members with events affecting Poland in the decades that followed. One example from the 1940s demonstrates the publication's importance particularly well. Following World War II, Poland faced enormous humanitarian needs. CARE began sending food packages to Poland in 1946. Between May 1946 and December 1949, CARE ultimately delivered more than 200,000 packages to Poland. Polish Americans and other members of the Polish diaspora participated in the effort by sending packages to relatives and others in need. The October 24, 1946, issue of Sokol Polski carried a story about the CARE effort, including an article titled “CARE Food Packages are Welcome Gifts in Poland.” The issue has since become a historical source itself; the Wilson Center used the Sokol Polski article, preserved in the Polish Falcons of America collection at the Institute of National Remembrance Archives in Warsaw, Poland, when documenting CARE's early relief mission to Poland. It’s a fitting example of the publication's enduring role. Sokol Polski was helping Members understand what was happening in Poland and how Polish Americans were responding. Decades later, its pages were helping historians understand that history.

Behind the Pages Producing Sokol Polski was once a very different process from the one we know today. For numerous years, the publication was produced in the Falcons' own printery at then National Headquarters on Pittsburgh's South Side. Under the supervision of Mieczyslaw J. Wasilewski, numerous individuals worked to produce Sokol Polski as well as other publications dealing with the organization. Among them was Thaddeus Ruszala, who served as an assistant to Wasilewski and worked as a linotyper in the Falcons' printery for an extraordinary 53 years, retiring in 1985. The printery relied on a large Heidelberg Press, which remained the primary equipment for this work into the early 1970s. Falcons Press also produced publications for other organizations within Polonia, including Glos Polek, the newspaper of the Polish Women's Alliance. Eventually, however, the Heidelberg became increasingly difficult to repair. When it was no longer possible to readily obtain the necessary repairs, the printery closed, and Sokol Polski was sent to outside printing shops. The change marked the end of an era. For decades, the Falcons had not only published their own newspaper, but they had also operated the machinery and employed the people necessary to put it into the hands of their Members.

The Editors Who Carried It Forward Behind every issue are people who’ve devoted their time and talent to keeping the publication moving forward. Mieczyslaw J. Wasilewski served as editor until his death in 1979. Following his death, Bernard Rogalski served as acting editor, followed by Regina Gorzkowska. In 1985, Timothy Kuzma assumed the editorship. Kuzma's tenure as editor continued until 1996, but his connection to Sokol Polski represents only one part of an extraordinary career with the Polish Falcons of America. Over more than 40 years of service to PFA, Tim has served the organization in virtually every major leadership capacity: Editor, Communications Director, First Vice President, National Secretary/Treasurer, and National President. As he prepares to retire from PFA this year, his career provides a remarkable example of how service in one area of the organization can grow into a lifetime of leadership.

For 130 years, Sokol Polski simultaneously recorded history while blending into the historical record. Tim Kuzma (left) and Jimmy Orkwis (right) with Bob Uccellino (back)

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Tim's years with Sokol Polski also connect the publication's editorial work with the people who physically produced it. His assistant in printing the publication was James Orkwis, who began working with Wasilewski and the Falcons in 1967.

A New Chapter

The publication was also adapting to new technology. In 1986, Robert Uccellino joined the staff, taking responsibility for typesetting editorial copy using a modern computerized typesetter. The change represented another step in the long transition from the hands-on production methods of the Falcons' printery to the computerized publishing processes that would eventually make today's digital edition possible.

The first Sokol appeared in Chicago in 1896 at a time when a printed publication was one of the most effective ways to connect Members separated by distance. One hundred thirty years later, digital publishing offers an entirely new way to accomplish that same goal. But going digital does not mean leaving print behind.

After Kuzma's tenure ended in 1996, Thomas Suski served as editor until 2003, followed by Frank Winters until March 2008. Connie Smail served through the end of 2008, and David Motak served until June 2013. In June 2013, the responsibility for Sokol Polski passed to me. Over the past 13 years, eight of them with my assistant and graphic designer, Tiarra McGinnis, I’ve had the privilege of editing more than 60 issues of Sokol Polski. Like the editors who came before me, I’ve inherited a publication with a long history and an important responsibility: to tell the stories of our Members, highlight the work of our Nests, preserve our traditions, and help Falcons remain connected.

From Newspaper to Magazine The physical publication has changed dramatically over the years. During David Motak's tenure, in 2011, Sokol Polski underwent one of its most significant transformations when the newspaper became a full-color magazine. For the next 14 years, the publication was printed by Knepper Press in Clinton, Pennsylvania.

On June 18, 2026, Sokol Polski entered another new era with the publication of its first fully digital issue. It was an especially appropriate milestone in the publication's 130th year.

Sokol Polski will continue to be published quarterly, with two print issues and two digital issues each year. The format may continue to evolve, but the commitment to providing Members with a publication they can read, share, and preserve remains.

130 Years and Counting When the first Sokol appeared on September 1, 1896, no one could have imagined the many forms the publication would take over the next 130 years. They could not have envisioned the weekly Sokol Polski of Pittsburgh, the linotype machines and Heidelberg Press at Falcons Press, the transition to outside commercial printing, the full-color magazine, or a digital edition delivered electronically to Members. But they understood something that remains true today: an organization spread across communities and states needs a way to stay connected.

In 2025, printing moved to Gazette Printers in Indiana, Pennsylvania, where the magazine continues to be produced today. The transformation from newspaper to full-color magazine was more than a change in appearance. It reflected the changing ways Members consumed information and the changing role of a member publication in an increasingly visual and digital world. Yet the purpose remained familiar: to share the accomplishments of our Members, tell the stories of our Nests and preserve the history of the Polish Falcons. That history is preserved not only in the memories of generations of Members, but also in the pages of Sokol Polski itself. Today, the publication's complete hard-copy archive is housed at the Institute of National Remembrance (IPN) Archives in Warsaw, Poland. The collection preserves more than a century of issues, providing an invaluable historical record of the Polish Falcons of America, its Members, and the Polish-American community. In this way, Sokol Polski continues to serve two purposes: connecting Members in the present while preserving the history of the Polish Falcons for the future. Heidelberg Press

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For 130 years, Sokol Polski has provided that connection. Its pages have carried the voices of Falcons across generations. They have reported on the organization's challenges and accomplishments, celebrated the work of Members, connected Polish Americans to events in Poland, and preserved countless stories that otherwise might have been lost. The people who produced those pages have changed. The technology has changed. The publication's size, frequency, design, and format have changed. The mission has not. From Stefan Barszczewski's first issue in Chicago in 1896 to the first fully digital issue in 2026, Sokol Polski has remained what it was created to be: a way for Falcons to know what their fellow Members are doing, to understand where their organization has been, and to remain connected to one another.

After 130 years, the story continues. And the next chapter is ours to write.

First edition of the Sokol Polski at the Institute of National Remembrance Archives in Warsaw

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usps statement of ownership

1. Publication Title

Statement of Ownership, Management, and Circulation (All Periodicals Publications Except Requester Publications) 2. Publication Number

Sokol Polski (Polish Falcon)

3. Filing Date

500-640 500-640 _

4. Issue Frequency

5. Number of Issues Published Annually

Quarterly

4

09/09/2026

1016 Greentree Rd., Suite 201, Pittsburgh, PA 15220

Contact Person

Courtney C. Stambul Telephone (Include area code)

(412) 922-2244

8. Complete Mailing Address of Headquarters or General Business Office of Publisher (Not printer)

Polish Falcons of America, 1016 Greentree Rd., Suite 201, Pittsburgh, PA 15220

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15. Extent and Nature of Circulation

a. Total Number of Copies (Net press run) (1) Mailed Outside-County Paid Subscriptions Stated on PS Form 3541 (Include paid distribution above nominal rate, advertiser’s proof copies, and exchange copies) b. Paid Circulation (2) Mailed In-County Paid Subscriptions Stated on PS Form 3541 (Include paid distribution above nominal rate, advertiser’s proof copies, and exchange copies) (By Mail and Outside Paid Distribution Outside the Mails Including Sales Through Dealers and Carriers, (3) the Mail) Street Vendors, Counter Sales, and Other Paid Distribution Outside USPS® (4)

Paid Distribution by Other Classes of Mail Through the USPS (e.g., First-Class Mail®)

d. Free or (1) Nominal Rate Distribution (2) (By Mail and Outside (3) the Mail)

Managing Editor (Name and complete mailing address)

Courtney C. Stambul, 1016 Greentree Rd., Suite 201, Pittsburgh, PA 15220

10. Owner (Do not leave blank. If the publication is owned by a corporation, give the name and address of the corporation immediately followed by the names and addresses of all stockholders owning or holding 1 percent or more of the total amount of stock. If not owned by a corporation, give the names and addresses of the individual owners. If owned by a partnership or other unincorporated firm, give its name and address as well as those of each individual owner. If the publication is published by a nonprofit organization, give its name and address.) Full Name Complete Mailing Address

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1016 Greentree Rd., Suite 201, Pittsburgh, PA 15220

Full Name

16. Electronic Copy Circulation

Average No. Copies No. Copies of Single Each Issue During Issue Published Preceding 12 Months Nearest to Filing Date

a. Paid Electronic Copies

15,000

13,736

13,703

0

0

0

0

b. Total Paid Print Copies (Line 15c) + Paid Electronic Copies (Line 16a)

13.736 0

0

c. Total Print Distribution (Line 15f) + Paid Electronic Copies (Line 16a)

13.736 0

13.703 0

0

0

d. Percent Paid (Both Print & Electronic Copies) (16b divided by 16c Í 100)

0

0

0

0 13.703

Free or Nominal Rate Outside-County Copies included on PS Form 3541

0

0

Free or Nominal Rate In-County Copies Included on PS Form 3541

0

0

Free or Nominal Rate Copies Mailed at Other Classes Through the USPS (e.g., First-Class Mail)

0

0

(4) Free or Nominal Rate Distribution Outside the Mail (Carriers or other means) e. Total Free or Nominal Rate Distribution (Sum of 15d (1), (2), (3) and (4))

f. Total Distribution (Sum of 15c and 15e)

0

0

0

0

13,736

13,703

g. Copies not Distributed (See Instructions to Publishers #4 (page #3))

1,264

1,297

h. Total (Sum of 15f and g)

15,000 15

15,000 15

100

100

i. Percent Paid (15c divided by 15f times 100) 11. Known Bondholders, Mortgagees, and Other Security Holders Owning or Holding 1 Percent or More of Total Amount of Bonds, Mortgages, or None Other Securities. If none, check box

15,000

13.736

c. Total Paid Distribution [Sum of 15b (1), (2), (3), and (4)]

Courtney C. Stambul, 1016 Greentree Rd., Suite 201, Pittsburgh, PA 15220

03/13/2026 Average No. Copies No. Copies of Single Each Issue During Issue Published Preceding 12 Months Nearest to Filing Date

I certify that 50% of all my distributed copies (electronic and print) are paid above a nominal price.

Polish Falcons of America, 1016 Greentree Rd., Suite 201, Pittsburgh, PA 15220

Editor (Name and complete mailing address)

Statement of Ownership, Management, and Circulation (All Periodicals Publications Except Requester Publications)

14. Issue Date for Circulation Data Below

Sokol Polski (Polish Falcon)

6. Annual Subscription Price

Free to Members

7. Complete Mailing Address of Known Office of Publication (Not printer) (Street, city, county, state, and ZIP+4 ®)

13. Publication Title

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10/1/26 in the ________________________ issue of this publication. 18. Signature and Title of Editor, Publisher, Business Manager, or Owner

Date

09/09/2026 I certify that all information furnished on this form is true and complete. I understand that anyone who furnishes false or misleading information on this form or who omits material or information requested on the form may be subject to criminal sanctions (including fines and imprisonment) and/or civil sanctions (including civil penalties).

* If you are claiming electronic copies, go to line 16 on page 3. If you are not claiming electronic copies, skip to line 17 on page 3.

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PS Form 3526, July 2014 (Page 2 of 4)

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March 2026 – May 2026 In Memory of Deceased Nest 118 & Nest 41 Members $100.00 – PFA District IV Falconettes DONATIONS OF $100 OR MORE

Eugenia Krzyzanski Mary Vasek Jamie Kelly Matthew Kucharski William Koziara Elizabeth Schaefer Walter Kucharski Mark Bielski Dorothy Pawlowski Robert Michalak Jerry Pencak Christine Oldham Margaret Faris Daniel Kucharski Donna Skobodzinski Paul Karpinski Kayoko Opalacz James Bielanski Robert Juskowiak Ronald Senkow Deborah Minkebige Karen Patterson Thomas Bulthaupt Edward Fronczek Christopher Kokoczka Charlotte Luczkowski Margaret Mroczka Thomas Dziubinski Kathryn Soleski Janet Boyers Genevieve Borovicka Genevieve Borovicka Genevieve Borovicka

3 42 804 182 580 176 182 159 36 80 86 430 276 182 123 74 519 907 88 176 336 86 104 74 336 80 336 176 68 182 97 97 97

$2,500.00 $1,494.00 $500.00 $500.00 $500.00 $446.00 $250.00 $200.00 $200.00 $200.00 $200.00 $100.00 $100.00 $100.00 $100.00 $100.00 $100.00 $100.00 $100.00 $100.00 $100.00 $100.00 $100.00 $100.00 $100.00 $100.00 $100.00 $100.00 $100.00 $100.00 $10.00 (380th) $10.00 (381th) $10.00 (382th)

DONATIONS OF $50 OR MORE

Eugenia Krzyzanski Mary Vasek PFA Nest 17 Richard Federowicz Jessica Starowitz John Crishock William Fronczek Jerry Pencak Deborah Minkebige Nancy Capozoli Patricia Capozoli Trish Del Busse Christopher Kokoczka Christopher Magiera Margaret Faris Joseph Makuch Dennis Dobrowolski Robert Wozny Leonard Sobota Betty Wroblewski Ruth Ristaino Edward Borkowski Emily Darkowski Karen Buczek Mihalsky Daniel Julius Eric Denny Sharon Wood Susan Gronert Carol Troth Keith Kovac Thomas Aleksa Michael Nicpon Sharon Caldwell

3 42 — 8 804 610 — 86 336 118 118 8 336 80 276 519 8 80 86 146 77 176 118 15 68 519 276 493 42 159 610 74 123

$2,500.00 $1,494.00 $1,000.00 $1,000.00 $500.00 $500.00 $200.00 $183.00 $100.00 $100.00 $100.00 $100.00 $68.00 $58.00 $50.00 $50.00 $50.00 $50.00 $50.00 $50.00 $50.00 $50.00 $50.00 $50.00 $50.00 $50.00 $50.00 $50.00 $50.00 $50.00 $50.00 $50.00 $50.00

More donations will be listed in our next issue

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PFA PRIVACY POLICY STATEMENT Privacy of Personal Financial and Medical Information Protecting the privacy of your personal financial and medical information has always been and will continue to be a matter of top priority for us. This privacy policy explains how we collect, use, and disclose information we receive through our cybersecurity services and web portal. Assigned Responsibility. Senior management of Polish Falcons of America is responsible to designate a qualified individual to manage data privacy, enforce this policy and evaluate its effectiveness periodically. Any user (agent, employee, third-party affiliate, or subsidiary) of Polish Falcons of America is responsible to review, acknowledge, and comply with this Privacy Policy prior to accessing any sensitive or confidential information. The PFA National Board of Directors (Board) shall review and adopt this policy on an annual basis. Any changes to this policy shall be approved by the Board before implementation. When used in this notice, the following terms have the meaning shown. * Public Information means information that is lawfully available to the general public from: Federal, State or local government records; widely distributed media; or, disclosures to the general public that are required to be made by Federal, State or local law. * Non-Public Information means personally identifiable financial and medical information. It also means any list, description or other grouping of individuals, and publicly available information pertaining to them, that is derived from any personally identifiable information that is not publicly available. * A Consumer Reporting Agency refers to an entity which regularly provides reports (Consumer Reports) including any information regarding an individual’s: general reputation, character, personal characteristics or mode of living and financial status. The information may be obtained through interviews with the individual or third parties such as the individual’s business associates, their family members, friends, neighbors, acquaintances, or financial sources.

MYTH A life insurance policy through work is enough.

FACT Life insurance at work is a nice benefit, but it typically is not enough to protect your family. Plus, if you change jobs, it doesn't move with you.

Have peace of mind with a life insurance policy from Polish Falcons of America. To learn more, contact John Denning at24800-535-2071 or by email at jdenning@polishfalcons.org.

We obtain information about you from the following sources: the information that you provided to us in an application or other form; information about your transactions with us (such as premium payments, loans, claims, etc.), or others; and any information that we may receive from a Consumer Reporting Agency or medical information received from a doctor or a medical services bureau. We will not disclose personal or non-public information about you to anyone, except as permitted or required by law or as you may authorize. We may disclose information to third parties in the following circumstances: • With your consent • To comply with legal requirements, such as a court order or subpoena • To protect our rights and property We restrict access to your personal, insurance and medical information to those of our employees who need to know that information in order to provide insurance or services to you. We are, and will continue to be, vigilant in the safeguarding of your personal financial and medical information. We will maintain all physical, electronic and procedural safeguards to comply with Federal and State regulations regarding the safeguarding of non-public information. We store all sensitive information on servers located within the United States of America. We take appropriate security measures to protect against unauthorized access, alteration, disclosure, or destruction of the information we collect and store It is our sincere desire to maintain complete, accurate and up-to-date records. You may contact us to access, as provided by law, information in–cluded in your file. We will promptly correct any error in our information. To protect your privacy, you will need to identify yourself by providing us with your name, date of birth and social security number. Additional identity verification may be required at the discretion of PFA and its staff. If we make any material changes to this Privacy Policy, we will notify you through our website or through other means. We will enforce this policy internally through the implementation of a Data Disclosure Policy and require all employees to read and sign acknowledgement of that policy prior to having access to your data. We will require all our employees to update their privacy skills each year, and we will evaluate our privacy training program each year to make it better and better.


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