Dr. Obertynski opened the program by welcoming the New Ambassadors, honoring all Ambassadors, and thanking everyone who provided support, consideration, and advocacy for Orchard Lake. In an endearing moment, Dr. Obertynski shared with the guests her nervousness and unfamiliarity with speaking before such a large group. Dr. Obertynski mentioned that, "I am not a speech-giver," which lightened the atmosphere and brought smiles and chuckles to many faces.
Dr. Obertynski mentioned that someone advised her to tell a joke during a speech, that a joke will entertain the audience and calm the speaker as well. So, Dr. Obertynski proceeded to share a joke about the well-known detectives, Dr. Watson and Sherlock Holmes, who were on a camping trip. Waking in the middle of the night seeing the stars and planets in the sky, Holmes asked Watson, "What do you make of this?" Watson replied after a lengthy dissertation, "I would have to conclude by the number of stars, there must be other life in the universe." Holmes retorted, "No, you idiot, somebody stole our tent!"
Dr. Obertynski commented that "neither am I a joke-teller." The gathering laughed at the joke and the speaker laughed as well in a merry moment. Mission accomplished. Dr. Obertynski encouraged everyone to be "ambassadors" everyday for Orchard Lake and let their love flow for all good things to come.
Dr. Obertynski then presented Rev. Timothy F. Whalen, Orchard Lake Schools Chancellor, who then shared his thoughts on this event. "Liken yourself to St. Paul, the Apostle, where in all days, all ways, keep the love of Jesus Christ at the center of your lives." Rev. Whalen commented how "blessed" he is and how "fortunate" he felt being a part of this joyous event where so many are gathered with a focused vision, full of determination and unending strength.
Rev. Whalen thanked all supporters and the 297 Ambassadors – the largest amount of supporters yet – "for remaining committed to Orchard Lake Schools goals and for preparing the future—that love and prayers of family make us whole."
To reflect this point, Rev. Whalen shared this story of Tomasz, a young man in Poland who was considering whether to become a priest in Poland or the U.S. It was a critical decision because if he would arrive in the U.S., he could not return to the seminary in Poland. As Tomasz was reading Pope John Paul II’s Apostolic Millennium Letter, a theme of "Come Out Into The Deep" was contemplated. Tomasz could be a priest in Poland but would always "be on the shore" and knew God was calling him to come to the U.S. to become a priest.
"By your support," Rev. Whalen shared, "you ‘are the open arms’ waiting to welcome those seminarians wishing to attend the seminary at Orchard Lake. Through you, God has blessed us. Bog zaplac."
Rev. Whalen then introduced Mr. Wallace Ozog, National President of the Polish Roman Catholic Union of America (PRCUA), "no greater friend of Orchard Lake." The PRUCA exceeded its extent of donations collected and presented a generous sum in excess of $50,000 to a most appreciative Rev. Whalen.
Rev. Whalen then presented Rev. Msgr. Francis B. Koper, who has spent 25 years as rector of SS. Cyril and Methodius Seminary, the longest amount of time as rector in the U.S. Rev. Msgr. Koper will retire at the end of 2002.
In his invocation, Msgr. Koper shared in part the following sentiments, " that we live in a radiant land, full of gratitude for the mystery of life—its majesty, glory and creation – of the sun, moon and stars. We walk by their light – this light that illuminates all of creation, the gifts of all its elements – the sun, moon and stars. The Light of Lights, Your Son, Jesus Christ, the Light of the World, illuminates all sisters and brothers and your Children of Light. We are grateful for shadows and nightfall, feelings and sufferings. Your Divine Light penetrates and radiates outward as a shining star in the midst of gloom. You are the eternal source of all light and energy."
Rev. Koper recited the traditional blessing with all guests in unison at the invocation’s conclusion immediately before the meal was served.
This narrative would not be complete without identifying the absolutely fabulous meal that was presented to guests. The meal included borscht (beet root consommé) with vegetables, with dill and sour cream Chardonnay Sterling Vintners Collection 2000, salad consisting of frizze, oak leaf, and arugula with lemon balm, and poached scallop and bacon dressed with aged balsamic vinegar. Filet mignon sat on a bed of braised savoy cabbage placed atop horseradish, mashed potatoes with wild mushroom ragout, and baby carrots. Meridian Cabernet Sauvignon was served next. For dessert, white chocolate torte filled with cranberry mousse and served with orange-cranberry chutney came next.
Michael Mainguth, Phil Cole and Joe Czapski provided great musical entertainment for the guests’ listening and dancing pleasure as well. Only Orchard Lake can do it this good. God bless and all the best. Wszystkiego najlepszego!

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