POLISH NATIONAL ALLIANCE OF BROOKLYN
MERGES WITH OUR ORGANIZATION

Chicago, Illinois - As of July 1, 2007, the Polish National Alliance of Brooklyn, a patriotic and charitable organization with 104 years of tradition in the state of New York, merged with the PNA, and has become a part of our PNA Family.

The Polish National Alliance with great anticipation welcomes all new members from the PNA of Brooklyn. After a long period of administrative and legal scrutiny, the New York State Department of Insurance approved the merger on June 28, 2007.

Christine J. McMullan, lifetime activist and officer of the PNA of Brooklyn, and recent President for the past 14 years, stated that the current merger is "the best thing that could happen to both of our fraternals, in New York and Chicago".

From all the activist and officers of the Polish National Alliance, we extend a friendly "Welcome" to the members and officers of the PNA of Brooklyn.

The very first official date of what was to become the PNA of Brooklyn is the day of February 10, 1903 when an organizing meeting of a group of Polish immigrants was held at 237 Kent Avenue, Brooklyn. The immediate success of this initiative is manifested by the following "impressive" figures: 227 members, and a capital of exactly $249.70; in 1910 there were already 2,243 members; in 1920 - 8,642; in 1930 - 11,328; in 1940 - 16,112l in 1950 - 18.700 and in 1953 - 19,979. There was a corresponding growth in funds which now mount to almost 5,5 million dollars with a total life insurance in force of $16,831.00.

Throughout its existence, the Alliance has been true to its avowed objectives and aims, beautifully and touchingly stated in the Constitution and By-Laws extending to the members "moral and material assistance in tome of misfortune; to foster among them love and devotion for their adopted country, and to assist them in familiarizing themselves with the laws and customs of their adopted country; to propagate Christian charity and to foster unity among its members; to foster and preserve the faith and language of the motherland of its members; to familiarize their neighborhoods and friends with the rich culture, traditions and customs of Poland; to encourage them to become citizens of the United States and to faithfully perform their duties as such citizens."

This program, harmoniously fusing attachments to the heritage and ideals of the "old country" with love and devotion for the great American democracy, "the land of the free and the home of the brave", has been carried out zealously and conscientiously.

During World War II, the PNA of Brooklyn transmitted considerable sums for the relief of Polish exiles, donated a station-wagon to the Polish armed units being formed in Canada, however never neglecting the obligations of American citizenship. The purchase of U.S. defense bonds in the amount of $1,125,000.00 is an eloquent proof of this patriotic attitude.

The twenty second PNA of Brooklyn convention held in Hempstead, New York in September 1942, expressed the attachment of Polish Americans to the United States and their pride in belonging to this great democracy.

The Convention of 1950 outlined a program of action which reflects the PNA's deep concern and accurate evaluation of the world's situation. Of particular importance is the work of the specially established Committee to Fight Communism organized to "combat the danger which threatens to undermine the foundations on which our entire system and our whole life are based."

Another phase of the PNA of Brooklyn's activity is a well developed educational and youth program which gained impetus when the Alliance acquired the magnificent estate of Oak Ridge, New Jersey. Their summer camp for boys and girls were set up under expert guidance which instilled in the youngsters love for America and appreciation for their Polish Heritage.

The PNA of Brooklyn according to the National Fraternal Congress of America is maintaining currently 11 active lodges with 4,126 benefit members. Their Home Office located at 144 Noble Street in Brooklyn, (Green Point) New York, will provide space for a satellite office for the PNA and provide room for the opening of a "PNA Bank" in the upcoming months.

To View Full Size Version of Photo Click on Thumbnail Below

(l-r) Casimir Musielak, Christine McMullan, Frank Spula, Z. John Ordon

Story and Photo: taken from August 1, 2007 Zgoda