Friday, September 26, 2003
Krakusy Hall has been a South Side fixture since 1903.
By ROGER G. SMITH
CITY HALL REPORTER
YOUNGSTOWN -- A year ago, Joseph Magielski wasn't sure how much longer Krakusy Hall and the group that runs the building would last.
But Saturday, the Free Polish Krakusy Society, Polish National Alliance Lodge 827, celebrates its 100th anniversary. The party will be at Krakusy Hall, which the group expects to operate for years to come.
An influx of new, younger officers who pressed to book the hall more often and increase membership has stabilized the society's finances, said Magielski, a Krakusy trustee.
"It looks better than it did a year ago," he said.
New officers
Hall rentals and membership are up thanks to the hard work of the half-dozen new officers, Magielski said.
The new officers are in their 40s and 50s, replacing members in their 80s who weren't able to be as active.
Membership rose to about 1,000 people, up 60 compared with a year ago. Hall rentals increased more than 10 percent in that period, Magielski said.
"As long as it's an increase, not a decrease," he said.
Declining bookings had left the society staring at a financial problem serious enough to consider selling the hall. That's not something the membership wanted to think about, he said.
"We definitely want to stay there," Magielski said.
Krakusy Hall has been a South Side fixture for a century.
The first Krakusy Hall was established in 1903 on Franklin Avenue. The hall has been on South Avenue since 1939.
Renovations
Last year, volunteers renovated the top-floor ballroom. Restrooms and the kitchen were improved, and carpet and paint were updated.
Members can rest easier now knowing the hall will remain with the society for the near future, Magielski said.
He expects 100 to 125 people to attend the anniversary celebration, which is at 6 p.m. Saturday at the hall.
The dinner is at 6 p.m., with dancing afterward.
Also, a Polish dance troupe from Cleveland is to perform, and speakers are to include officials from the Polish National Alliance main office in Chicago and U.S. Rep. Tim Ryan of Niles, D-17th.
The event is open to the public. Tickets are $35 and can be reserved until Friday by calling Krakusy Hall at (330) 746-9907.
rgsmith@vindy.com