$ 3.99 U.S./$ 8.99 International Zarja Official Publication Slovenian Union of America Uradno Glasilo Slovenske Zveze v Ameriki Volume 84 Issue 4 August/September/October 2012 The Dawn Jimmy Bernard and John Zakelj Festival Of Nations: Twin Cities Slovenians Slovenian Union Of America Zarja - The Dawn EDITOR: Debbie Pohar DIRECTOR OF DESIGN: Bonnie Pohar Prokup EDITORIAL OFFICE: 1696 Illinois St. LaSalle, IL 61301 TELEPHONE: 815.223.9596 FAX: 815.224.1074 WEB SITE: slovenianunion.org PUBLISHER: Slovenian Union of America (Formerly Slovenian Women’s Union of America) TELEPHONE: 815.727.1926 Vol. 84, No 4, August/September/October 2012 Published bimonthly Periodicals Postage paid at Joliet, IL and additional mailing offices. (ISSN 0044-1848) Postmaster: Send all changes of address to: SLOVENIAN UNION OF AMERICA (Formerly Slovenian Women’s Union of America) 431 N. Chicago St., Joliet, IL 60432-1703 Communications for the next issue of publication Do you have something SUA-related you would like to share with readers, like an event you want to let people know about or an idea for an article? We would love to hear from you! Please e-mail the editor at pohar4@aol.com. We reserve the right to edit any article submitted. It is preferable that you submit your idea for discussion prior to writing an article. Articles must be related to SUA events or members. The deadline for articles is the 15th day of the month, 2 months preceding the issue. For example, articles for the November/ December issue must be received by September 15th. Thank you. Submission Guidelines Tell us how to reach you: Include your name, daytime phone number, e-mail address and mailing address with each submission, including e-mailed submissions. Go Digital: We regret that we can no longer return submitted materials. It is best to e-mail your photos. Use a 3.2-megapixal (or better) camera set for the highest picture quality, and attach your photos as jpeg files. If you have an old photo that is irreplaceable, please make a good-quality copy to share with us. (Scanned copies must be a resolution of 300 or higher.) By submitting material for publication, you grant the Slovenian Union of America (formerly the Slovenian Women’s Union of America) the use of the material, including your name, hometown and state. We may modify, reproduce, and distribute it in any SUA authorized medium and in any manner or appropriate place. Junior Member in the News A manda Kinney, Branch 1 – Sheboygan, Wisconsin, of Girl Scout Troop 8465 is the recipient of the Girl Scout Silver Award. She is the daughter of Julie and Todd Kinney. While the project and award were finalized in August 2011, the troop recently held a ceremony honoring the newest Silver Award recipient. Amanda, 16, is a sophomore at Sheboygan North High School. Amanda’s Silver Award project involved making 15 quilts for Morningside Nursing Home. As the project leader, Amanda organized a team of experienced and novice sewers from amongst her family, friends, Girl Scout troop, and church (Ebenezer UCC). She led the group as they planned, assembled, and pieced the fabric. As she says, “Together we learned to sew. We also learned how to ‘un-sew’ our mistakes. Some people found they were best suited for ironing. But, we had a lot of fun together.” After hundreds of volunteer hours, the creative crew produced a total of 31 quilt tops. Amanda later worked with a select group of sewers to finish quilting the 15 quilts that were delivered to Morningside Nursing Home. Amanda’s mentor for the project was Teresa Gonering. After completing the Silver Award project and delivering the quilts, Amanda worked with another team of volunteers and friends to complete the remaining 16 quilts. Those quilts were delivered to the Salvation Army. Nearly all the supplies for the quilts were generously donated by Amanda’s community. In most cases, the quilts were composed of scrap fabric with repurposed blankets, and quilted material used for the quilt batting. President’s Message Greetings: I hope everyone had a wonderful summer filled with family and friends. Mine was perfect, as it included a fabulous vacation. My sister, Debbie Pohar, and I took a small group including our niece, Julia, my daughter, Barbi, and some friends to London and Slovenia. We spent three nights in an apartment in Piran. This was our first time spending more than a few hours on any coastal town in Slovenia; it was amazing! The highlight was chartering a private boat for nine of us for five hours. We swam in the Adriatic Sea and had the most fantastic meal ever. Our boat took us to the mussel farm on the sea where a couple of fishermen were harvesting mussels. Our captain purchased a huge bag of mussels for our group. We estimate a minimum of twelve dozen fresh mussels were prepared in garlic and butter with toasted bread. That alone was worth the price of the charter! And the meal only got better; it included prosciutto, olives, cheeses, breads, fish, polenta, wine, and soda for the teenagers. What a memory! On November 10, 2012, we are hosting an event at the SUA Museum in Joliet, IL. Please join us! You can read more about it in this issue. If you feel that you have some free time to spare and can volunteer in any way, please send me an e-mail. We are especially looking for someone to help with membership campaigns. Best wishes for success with all your branch meetings coming up this fall. I look forward to hearing from you. We had the opportunity to visit with some of our friends, a wonderful picnic in Laze, sightseeing, and thoroughly enjoying our evenings in Ljubljana which, I can honestly say, is my favorite city in the world. It gets better every time I go back. Enough of my travels, let’s get to SUA business. Are we searching for new members? Did we try a fun Slovenian picnic over the summer? Any plans for an exciting event this fall? Please share with our readers. As you can see many are trying the successful events that have helped other branches. Sincerely, Bonnie Pohar Prokup National President wprokup@aol.com Slovenian Union of America Welcome to Our New Members! Richter, Jo Anne Marie, 1 Rojina, Kathy, 2 Lambert, Paul, 5 Palmer, Barbara, 10 Behrman, Ryne Robert, 16 Bannon, Margaret, 20 Fonck, Sharon, 20 Hicks, Sharon, 20 Jandura, Ann, 20 Kimento, Claire, 20 Manning, Marcia, 20 Meyers, Lewis, 20 Olznoi, Joanie, 20 Pascoe, Sara, 20 Progress, Michael, 20 Smolich, Richard, 20 Stonitsch, Aloysius, 20 Gabbert, Austin, 30 Gabbert, Marcus, 30 Gabbert, Melissa, 30 Gabbert, Michelle, 30 Gabbert, Nicole, 30 Gray, Scott, 30 Kusar, Andrea, 30 McIlvene, Gabriel, 30 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012 McIlvene, Isabella, 30 Palcich, Thomas, 35 Jones, Aubrey, 42 Broucek, Lynda Marie, 43 Jacobs, Joan, 43 Marinello, Beverly, 43 Vogeler-Wunsch, Jesse, 43 Winkleski, Joan, 43 Selak, William Patrick, 55 Ebner, Michael, 89 Gunderson, Mike, 89 Kamnikar, Johnathan, 89 Kamnikar, Steve, 89 Sodac, David, 89 Wroblewski, Mark, 89 Slavinec, Doris Jereb, 93 Vershay Konkel, Lori, 93 Ast, Laurel, 100 Govednik, John, 100 Govednik, Valerie, 100 Looney, Courtney, 100 Plautz, Gloria, 102 Grahek, Robert, 109 Wegerson, Frank, 110 1 Ryba’s Reminders Bank Charges for Returned Checks Our bank charges $4.50 for each returned check because of insufficient funds or because a member closes their bank account before their check clears. We can no longer absorb this loss. Therefore effective immediately, we will require reimbursement for this fee. Thank you for your cooperation! The Wheels of Government Turn Slowly! Unfortunately, our application for non-profit status is still pending. Check out the following website: www.irs.gov (Where is my application?). Per this website on July 18, 2012, the IRS was processing November 2011 applications. Our application was submitted in December 2011. Therefore, we believe the IRS will probably start reviewing December applications this August or September. Hopefully we will be notified prior to the end of the year. With regard to the burial insurance, we still are waiting for guidance and approval from the Illinois Department of Insurance. Letters will be sent to all insured members once we receive information. s n o i t a n ou o y f D nk all o ade tha ave m . e W ho h ions w onat it! d e t a eci r p ap y l tru e W Annual Dues for 2012 We thank all of you who have paid your dues on time. Even though we have sent reminder invoices, as of July 15, we still have about 400 members who have not paid. Often we are told that an invoice was not received. Remember that you do not need an invoice to pay dues. You can always use the form which is printed in every issue of Zarja. Change of Address Please advise us immediately when you have a new address. Send to: Jana Hlade, either by e-mail to swuamembers@live.com or via U.S. mail to SUA, 431 N. Chicago St, Joliet, IL 60432-1703. Financial Reports for 2011 In the past we published Financial Reports in the Zarja, but at last year’s convention we voted that this will be discontinued because publishing reports in the magazine is too expensive. Members are entitled to review the finances. Therefore, we are posting copies of these reports on the website: www.slovenianunion.org which can be downloaded and printed. We recommend that all branches download copies for their files so that members who cannot access the website can review reports if it is requested. Copies of these reports are also filed in the home office. 2 ZARJA THE DAWN Fresh Evergreen Holiday Decorations These Great Gifts Are Again Available Through SUA/SWUA SUA must receive orders by November 14 Products shipped direct to the recipient via FedEx or SpeeDee at no extra cost 25” Victorian Wreath $33.00 25” Wintergreen Wreath $34.00 25” Cranberry Splash Wreath $34.00 Candlelit Centerpiece $31.00 (18” wide) Living Tree with Ornament $30.00 (20” tall) Cut Here 25” Classic Wreath $30.00 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER EACH HOLIDAY GIFT2012 WREATH INCLUDES A WREATH HANGER 3 Fresh Evergreen Christmas Decorations Available Through SUA/SWUA We are again conducting a holiday season fundraiser to support the Slovenian Union of America. These beautiful Christmas items are made from fresh evergreens, and each wreath comes with a door hanger. Orders will arrive at your door via Fed Ex or SpeeDee (Minnesota and Illinois recipients) between November 26 and December 12. If you order as a gift, a tree seedling will be planted in the recipient’s honor in one of Minnesota’s forests. Anyone who has ever visited Slovenia knows how Slovenians love their beautiful green forests. In addition to purchasing a decoration, you will be helping SUA/SWUA meet their financial endeavors. Simply fill in your message on the order blank and a card will be enclosed with your gift. There is no extra cost for this. Also, remember there are no additional shipping costs added to your order, which makes this an excellent price, especially for those who live on the West Coast. For more information on the products, check out Mickman Brothers’ website www.mickman.com. We know you will not be disappointed with these lovely Christmas decorations. Orders must be received by SUA no later than NOVEMBER 14 so that we have time to finalize the paper work. Please make check payable to SUA/SWUA , and send payment to Carol Ryba at the address listed on the form. Holiday Gift Order Form Orders Must be Received by November 14 To order one of these Holiday Decorations, please complete the information requested below: Classic Gift Wreath $30.00 Cranberry Splash Wreath $34.00 Victorian Gift Wreath $33.00 Candlelit Centerpiece $31.00 Wintergreen Wreath $34.00 Living Tree $30.00 Name - Please print clearly Cut Here We would like to order one of the following: Street Address 48 contiguous States only - No P.O. Boxes PLEASE City State Zip Code Sender’s Last Name Sender’s Phone Number Make checks payable to SUA/SWUA - Send to: Holiday Message SUA c/o Carol Ryba 3305 Glenshane Way Ormond Beach, FL 32174 Provide E-mail address so we can send you a receipt. ______________________________________________ If you do NOT have an E-mail address and want a receipt, please send STAMPED self-addressed envelope. Thank you. 4 From: ZARJA THE DAWN Slovenian Union of America Donations Thank you for the following donations! $100 Donation Gregorich, Nancy, 20, +Rose Mary and William Gregorich Marinelli, Anne Marie, 16, Honor of Rosemary Petrich $75 Donation Burger, Mariana, 93, Zarja $50 Donation Zuga, Karen, 54, +Victoria Zuga Teitelbaum, Mary Ann, 40, +Mary and George Ferlic Freiberg, Therese, 43, +Catherine Lesatz and Mary Christianson Paulson, Kathleen Nemanich, 23, Zarja VanGunten, Patricia, 54, +Rose Racher and Mary Ponikvar $30 Donation Gorton, Katherine, 1, +Hermine Dicke $25 Donation Marubio, Carol, 2, +Mayme Fabian Chiodo, Barbara, 13, +Frances Chiode, mother Grisham, Linda, 20, Zarja Burke, Cheryl, 1, +Kasha Hermatz Hall Oviyach, Raymond, 20, Zarja Veit, Alice, 102, +John and Mary Potisk Ribich, Rosemary, 35, +Johanna Ribich Sever Gaber, Agnes, 2, Zarja Wanthal, Mary, 20, +Rev. David Stalzer and Margaret Stalzer Stimach, Sonja, 13, Zarja Ferguson, Leslie, 20, Zarja Mikulich, Arlette, 35, +Agnes Mikulich Spring Federko, Jennie, 108, +Eveline Lawrence Plut, Victoria Ann, 20, +Sgt William Plut Smith, Judith Monshau, 108, +Mary Mutz, grandmother Secora, Linda, 3, +Christine Stupnik Kashman, Terri, 5, +Rosie Dugar Cummings, Dorothy Govednik, 13, +John and Gertrude Govednik Selke, Diane, 43, Zarja Rogers, Mary, 3, Zarja Schroeder, Kathleen, 1, +Dorothy Brezonik Jex, Erin, 43, +Ann Grambow Vlasic, Maria, 99, +Mary Pecharich, mother Mohner, Albina, 42, Zarja Link, Trudy, 93, +Anna Jonke Lauritzen, Mary, 24, Zarja Holden, Kathleen, 20,+Bernice Suski Roche, Jane, 3, +Jacque A Simms Sunkel, Arlene, 20, +John E Lokar, father Ryczek, Karen, 30, +Marie Prince Kovalik Freeman, Judith, 47, +Mary Mundson and Jennie Praznik Argubright, Peggy, 100, Zarja Laskowski, Paula Uremovic, 20, +Mary Rose Uremovic Tarizzo, Marilyn, 20, Zarja Shaw, Dorothy, 3, +John and Rose Pavlin Midman, Josie, 43, +Josephine Mulej, mother Povsic, Maria, 30, Zarja Tomasich, Rose, 16, Deceased members of Tomasich Family Gorenc, M.Lillian, 43, Zarja Behrman, Helene, 16, Zarja Oldenburg, Frances, 20, Zarja Oldenburg, Frances, 20, +Mary Rojic Voelk, Tom, 23, Honor of Mary Lou Voelk Considine, Arlene, 109, +Martin Teshak and Appolonia Muren Simenz, Susan Marie, 1, +Anna Jeruc Mata, Menky, 20, Zarja McDonald, Carol, 35, Zarja Speler, Madison, 30, +Margaret Speler Vidergar, Mary Lou, 100, +Mary Lipovec Glad and Mary Vidergar Sr. $20 Donation Fitzsimmons, Bernadette, 108, Zarja Partyka, Mary Ann, 99, +Frances M Schultz Lardi, Ann, 99, +Fran Jerse, sister Savol, Rosanne, 20, +Ann Ramuta Savol and Josephine Ramuta Sumic Nemanich, Carolyn, 99, +Sophie Nemanich Pigat, Jessie, 47, +Pauline Pigat Yakos, Jacqueline, 24, +Mary Yakos Gabbert, Michelle, 30, Zarja $5 Donation Dovnik, Danielle, 43, Zarja Dovnik, Karl Jr., 43, Zarja Mlakar-Miller, Angela Rose, 100, Zarja Tate, Alyssa, 3, Zarja Polutnik, Stephanie, 40, +Mary Turk and Mary, Josie, and Vera Fooy, Dori Kregar, 55, Honor of Milka Kregar Nord, Trevor, 43, Zarja Weber, Jeanette, 50, Zarja Hiti, Mary Jane, 50, Zarja Jorstad, Evan James, 109, Zarja Plese, Eileen, 20, +Rose Hrvatin, mother Fon, Phyllis, 5, Zarja $15 Donation Kalfas, Rosemary, 50, +Christine Basca Duche Kovacic, Nika, 108, +Eric A Kovacic Golf, Mary Lou, 20, +Mary Barbic $10 Donation Hendricks, Marilyn, 1, +Dale Hendricks Hendricks, Marilyn, 1, +Martha Kotnick Koncar, William, 20, Zarja Ryba, Michael, 30, +Val Grantham Gravelie, Mayda, 5, Zarja Krebs, Janice, 50, +Michael Krebs AUGUST/SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012 Heritage Museum Donations $10 Donation Branch 43, +Doris Frahm Branch 43, +Anne Konczal Branch 43, +Agnes Sagadin Branch 43, +Mary Martino Branch 43, +Josef Janezic 5 Paula’s ‘Triglav or Bust’ fund-raiser for the Slovenian Union of America $1,000 Donation Erika Hodnik, 35 $250 Donation Branch 99 $200 Donation Martha Pecharich, 99 Nadi Bajda, 109 Branch 23 $50 Donation Bernadine Medved, 109 Margaret Stratton, 35 Mary Ann Setnicker, 109 Patricia Gavin Frances Maxwell, 99 Miro Medved, 109 John Rems, 20 $46.96 Donation Lynn Zalokar, 93 $126 Donation Members of Branch 23 $25 Donation Louise Vett, 54 $100 Donation Frances Pavlovcic, 40 Jana Hlade, 99 Mary Lou Voelk, 23 Debbie Pohar, 24 John Hlade, 99 Vicki Hodgman, 99 Branch 43 Julie LaJoie, 99 Jacquelyn Smith, 43 $75 Donation Janie Carter Joe A. Mavec Michele Grimmer Joyce Vicich, 20 $70 Donation Denise P. Bartlett, 43 Please help Paula reach her goal! 6 $20 Donation Carol Ryba, 20 Jenny Skull, 20 Nandi Puc, 99 Nancy Steyer Estelle Zorman, 108 Judy Harazin, 99 Maria Breszach, 99 Ann Levar, 23 Frank Shober Dennis Cohil, 20 Barbara Bruch, 89 Mary Mavec, 99 Joe P. Mavec Julie Kaluza, 99 $3,407.96 TOTAL Goal $4,696 $10 Donation Sharon Gillen, 50 Megan Hlade, 99 Corinne Leskovar, 99 Mary Palcic, 93 Pat Figurowski, 20 $5 Donation Kyle Hlade, 99 Sarah Hlade, 99 To make a pledge for Paula’s ‘Triglav or Bust’ adventure which supports the Slovenian Union of America: Visit www.slovenianunion.org or mail your check to: Slovenian Union of America 431 N. Chicago St. Joliet, IL 60432-1703 ZARJA THE DAWN SWU Scholarship Foundation Donations $10,000 Donation Branch 2 - Chicago, Illinois, has graciously and generously provided the SWU Scholarship Foundation with a wonderful gift of $10,000. Their benevolence is in honor and memory of all Branch 2 - Chicago members, truly the first branch of the Slovenian Women’s Union of America formed on October 26, 1926, by an aspiring, young immigrant lady, Marie Prisland. The sole purpose of this new organization was to uplift Slovenian women in America and to broaden their outlook on life, educate themselves domestically and socially, and adapt themselves as better citizens of the United States while still maintaining Slovenian spirit in their hearts. Branch 2 members have done an outstanding job of carrying on those goals set in 1926 to this very day. The SWU Scholarship Foundation Officers and Trustees are honored to have been chosen to receive this large contribution and want to assure all scholarship donors that each dollar received is carefully managed with very minimal overheard expense, and all are tax exempt. We thank you Branch 2 - Chicago, Illinois, members living today, and those who live on in our memory, for your support and confidence in our endeavor to financially assist young Slovenian students for years into the future. $2,000 Donation Frances Kurilich Reichelderfer to fund two 2012 Scholarships in honor of her mother, Jean Kurilich. (Biography of Jean Kurilich appears in this issue of Zarja - The Dawn.) $500 Donation Branch 23, Ely, MN $350 Donation *Rae Anna Krasovic Tucker and Sean Tucker $300 Donation * Dr. Donald J. Carek $200 Donation *Dr. Michael S. Francis, +Stanza Skok Francis $100 Donation Branch 1, Sheboygan, WI *Robert and Mary Sever, +Brother Luke Sever Family of Hermine K. Strainer, deceased – death benefit to SWU Scholarship Foundation $75 Donation Grams and Gramps in celebration of Elizabeth Gonzalez’s graduation $50 Donation Olga Dorchak,+Elsie Spellacy, sister Frank and Debbie Duris, +Elsie Spellacy Milena Gobetz *Dr. Anita Kraus Lane, +Mr. Richard Cambic *Thomas J. Rzatkowski Branch 1, Sheboygan, WI, in honor of their pastor Fr. Glenn Powers $30 Donation *Charlene Herrick, +Marion and Robert Herrick $25 Donation Mark and Joanne Green, +Elsie Spellacy Roland and Joan Kopecky, +Elsie Spellacy Karen E. Kljun, +Elsie Spellacy Karen M. Tolhurst, +Elsie Specllacy Sandra M. Boysen, +Elsie Spellacy Sandra Farrell, +Edward Kurnick Sandra Farrell, +Edythe Ansel *Miriam Leskovar Burkland *Janice Singletary, in honor of her mother, Jonita Ruth’s 78th birthday October 11 *Anna Fon, in honor of Mary Fon Ray and Agnes Zabak, +Lausche/Zabak family AUGUST/SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012 $20 Donation Marge Church, +Elsie Spellacy Ana Jertic Ivanka Matic, +Angela Shine Janet Davis, +Elsie Spellacy Ginger Taucher Kemmerling, +Mary Taucher $15 Donation Newburgh Maple Hts. Pensioners Club, +Elsie Spellacy Rudolph B. Rusian, +Elsie Spellacy $10 Donation Branch 1, Sheboygan, WI, +Olga Maynard Maria Dimitrijevec, +Emilee Jenko Maria Dimitrijevec, +Anne Tomsick Maria Dimitrijevec, +Anika Zulic Branch 50, Euclid, OH, +Frances Vidmar Branch 50, Euclid, OH, +Angie Znidarsic Branch 50, Euclid, OH, +Mary Sirna Branch 50, Euclid, OH, +Frances Ogorenc Branch 50, Euclid, OH, +Emilee Jenko Branch 50, Euclid, OH, +Angela Shine Denise Dipio, +Elsie Spellacy Carolyn Mingione, +Elsie Spellacy Ellen Godfrey, +Elsie Spellacy Carol Tokarski, +Elsie Spellacy Malys Andre, +Elsie Spellacy Laurie Boldin, +Elsie Spellacy Jane A. Spellacy, +Elsie Spellacy, mother Lynn McKittrick, +Elsie Spellacy Lou and Kathy Ferrante, +Elsie Spellacy Branch 1, Sheboygan, WI, +Frances Mahler Ginger Taucher Kemmerling, +Elsie Spellacy Kay Yuratovac, +Elsie Spellacy *represents a past SWU Scholarship recipient 7 SWU Scholarship Foundation Celebrating 63 years of financially assisting students Mission: To generate funding to financially assist young students with hope that they will promote and preserve Slovenian culture. SWU Scholarship Foundation Announces Scholarship Recipients Of 2012 Frances Morison Scholarship 2012 - $2,000 MARGARET KONCAR, Branch 20 Daughter of Raymond and Annette Koncar, Joliet, Illinois, Margaret has just completed her first year majoring in occupational therapy at Xavier University in Cincinnati, Ohio. She hopes to specialize in either pediatric or geriatric therapies and eventually obtain a master’s degree. During her first year of college she has participated in a SK Race for Hunger, a freshman retreat, two Christian Community groups, and has been asked to play club softball next year. She plays the flute in the Symphonic Winds Orchestra and has had part time jobs as a lifeguard, Phone-a Thon caller, and child care worker at a nearby church during services. Margaret has been active in St. Joseph Church functions, and participates in various Slovenian cultural activities. She and her brother volunteered last summer to reorganize files and archival materials at the Slovenian Union of America Home Office in Joliet, Illinois Frances Barman Scholarship 2012 - $1,000 ELIZABETH ANCEL, Branch 20 Daughter of Andrew and Pamela Ancel, Brownsburg, Indiana, Elizabeth is graduating this spring from Brownsburg High School and plans to attend Purdue University in fall. She has been an honors student the past four years of high school, and has been involved with the Key Club, National Honor Society, YEP(Youth Encouraging Philanthropy), DECCA, and was a 4-year letter winner on the swim team, as well as serving as captain during the past year. Elizabeth plans on entering the honors engineering program at Purdue University this fall. 8 Frances Barman Scholarship 2012 - $1,000 KYLE LOREK, Branch 14-50 Son of Michael and Carol Lorek, Mentor, Ohio, Kyle has just completed his freshmen year at the University of Akron, where he is majoring in music. Kyle has received the Chopin Award, participated in a musical with the Akron Symphony Orchestra at the University of Akron, was the featured soloist in the OMEA Recital in January Lake Bled in Slovenia 2012, and will participate Tom in theatOpera/Lyric Theatre in fall 2012. He holds a 3.88 GPA, with the potential to become a premier vocal student in the School of Music at Akron University; all this while holding a shift coordinator job for Starbucks. SWU Scholarship Foundation Scholarship memorial cards are available for the asking. Contact Marge Church at yemec1@windstream.net or 1028 Skyland Drive Macedonia, OH 44056 ZARJA THE DAWN Jean Kurilich Scholarship 2012 - $1,000 TOM KLUN, Branch 23 Son of Judith and Lawrence (deceased) Klun, Ely, Minnesota, Tom is in his third year studying at the Carlson School of Finance, University of Minnesota, carrying a 3.9 GPA. He was privileged to attend classes in the Vienna University of Economics and Business during the 2011 fall semester. A review of that experience was featured in the March 2012 edition of Zarja-The Dawn. Tom will graduate from the Carlson School of Finance and will pursue employment in the consulting field. Jean Kurilich Scholarship 2012 - $1,000 MAYA VOELK, Branch 23 Daughter of Tom and Mariko Voelk, Seattle, Maya will graduate from Ballard High School this spring and attend a college, yet to be determined, majoring in marketing and/ or public relations. Maya is very interested and knowledgeable of her Slovenian heritage due to her Grandmother, Mary Lou Voelk, National Vice President of Culture and Heritage of the Slovenian Union of America. Maya holds a 3.97 GPA, served as senior class president this year, and has been a member of the National Honor Society for four years. She and a friend produced a video on symptoms and genetic causes of diabetes which was presented at the Student Bio Exposition. Maya has organized and participated in Earth Service Corps, Model UN, and in the field of sports, served as captain of the tennis and cross county high school teams. AUGUST/SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012 $100 SWU Merit Awards KATHERINE ANCEL, Branch 20, daughter of Andrew and Pamela Ancel, Brownsburg, Indiana. ANTHONY EDGETON, Branch 35, son of Tom and Mary Edgeton, Ramsey, Minnesota. MEGAN JOHNSON, Branch 102. daughter of Steve and Candy Johnson, Eau Claire, Wisconsin. ARIANA SHANK, Branch 1, daughter of Kevin and Laura Shank, Sheboygan, Wisconsin. Rose Marie Princ Graduate School Scholarship LINDSEY J. STRATTON, Menomonie, Wisconsin, earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Wisconsin-LaCrosse in 2009 and is currently majoring in School Counseling at the University of Wisconsin- Stout. During this academic year she is focusing on studies related to academic career and personal/social domains. She believes that teaching self-efficiency is important because she can only guide students for a few years before they face “the world” on their own. Lindsey has had years of experience in the service fields such as classroom rehabilitation and recreation. She has been working with the elderly, the young, and people with altered abilities (mental illnesses, cognitive disabilities, physical impairments and addictions), working in nursing homes, a facilitator of Craft Nights (a safe space for those with mental illnesses), and Special Olympic events as well. Lindsey received a 2005 SWU Scholarship and at that time had already been volunteering at Alzheimer’s wards and caring for her Down’s Syndrome sister. In more recent years she has volunteered at animal shelters and worked as an “Occupaws” dog trainer to teach dogs to relate and help those with disabilities. She will begin practice-teaching this year and will receive her master’s degree in school counseling in May 2013. Lindsey’s maternal great-grandparents are Leopold Kukar, and his wife, Margaret Mantle Kukar, both born in Slovenia and immigrated to Ely, Minnesota, in the early l900’s. Her grandmother, Phyllis Lopp Kukar, was born in Gilbert, Minnesota. Phyllis’s parents were Anton I. Lopp and Pauline Chernoff Lopp, both born in Slovenia and immigrated to the United States in l903. SPECIAL THANKS to the SWU Scholarship Committee who spent many hours evaluating all of this years applicants. Their careful evaluation using the required criteria makes the SWU Scholarship Foundation program a continued success. 9 SWU SCHOLARSHIP FOUNDATION SPONSORS of 2012 FRANCES MORISON SCHOLARSHIP The family of Frances Morison, long-time president and officer of Branch 2 - Chicago, Illinois, has made a contribution to SWU Scholarship Foundation in the amount of $2,500. This spring a $2,000 Frances Morison Scholarship was awarded to a highly qualified SUA member, Margaret Koncar. Terry Morison, son of Frances Morison, has submitted the following biography upon request. “Branch 2 of Chicago, Illinois, wishes to congratulate Fran Morison for thirty (30) years of dedicated service as our Branch President. Thank you, Fran, for the many kindnesses you have shown us. It is with the greatest pride to have this Scholarship Award on your behalf. Fran Morison knew nothing of God’s plan for her! In October 1979, on the occasion of Fran and Percy’s 28th wedding anniversary, they attended the Mass given by His Holiness John Paul II, at Holy Name Cathedral in Chicago. “Divine Intervention” happened as this event brought together Mary (Maymee) Muller (National President), Ann Mladic, and Lill Seibert, members of Branch 2 who encouraged her to become a member before the night was through. She met and worked with many women from Branch 2, however, Mary Foys Lauretig and Fran struck up a great friendship. It was Mary who recognized Fran’s leadership qualities and encouraged her to run for president. Fran would only agree if Mary agreed to be vice-president. A great partnership was forged that Branch 2 still benefits from, to this day. Fran conducted meetings according to the bylaws and added time for socializing. Meetings were carefully planned with themes, food, raffles, entertainment, speakers, and more. Fran focused on family participation so Percy, Mike, and Terry pooled whatever resources were needed to achieve this goal. When men were welcomed as members, we joined as well. Fran and Mary took into account that many of the members of Branch 2 were not Slovenian. Fran remembers what was instilled into both her and her brother Charlie - people will not have to ask where you come from (heritage), they will know by your behavior, civic mindedness, charitable acts, compassion, kindness, willingness, and demeanor towards others, and your character - people will know you are a Slovenian. This set the stage for her tenure. The membership worked together to achieve many goals, including a new marble statue of St. Francis at the entrance of St. Mary’s Seminary in Lemont, Illinois, a boardroom table and chairs for the home office, library shelves for the book collection, baskets for the elderly of the parish to 10 help with medications, restoration of both St. Stephen’s (Slovenian) parish and at St. Mary’s (seminary) the chapel and the bell tower on the grounds, and refurbishing the Grotto, and many more endeavors over these 30 years. Not only did we have goals, but field trips to the museum and to Regional Conventions, sharing the coach ride with neighboring branches (20 and 99) at times. Even on the bus, we had fun - games, singing, and a prayer for safe keeping. Some have said of Fran, she was “a breath of fresh air,” others said “a jewel in the bunch of us.” And if you ask Fran herself, her response will be “I am only doing the duties entrusted to me by my Ladies.” Fran also served on the National Board as Youth Director, Heritage Museum Board, and as an Auditor. She is an ardent supporter of education; both of her sons have university degrees, becoming professionals in their own right. Therefore, it could be no more befitting than to say “Thank you, Fran.” We wish this year’s recipient God’s speed and inspiration. JEAN KURILICH SCHOLARSHIP Mrs. Jean Kurilich’s daughter, Frances Kurilich Reichelderfer, has provided $2,000 for two SWU Scholarships for 2012. Recipients are Tom Klun and Maya Voelk. Education was of prime importance to Mrs. Kurilich. Daughter, Frances, received her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from UCLA and taught English at Santa Monica Community College for many years. She initiated a remedial English, Math program for college students with below level reading skills; a program that has continued to expand to the present at Santa Monica College. Daughter, Frances, has written the following memory of her Mother. “It is difficult to summarize the life of someone as precious to me as my Mom. Family and friends were her major focus. Her apple strudels were legendary, her gardens well stocked with flowers and vegetables, and the smells from her kitchen simply mouth-watering. When we lived in Cleveland, Ohio, we were unable to have pets, but she promised that when we got to Fontana, California, where my Dad would work at Kaiser Steel, we would have lots of pets. Did we ever! There were dogs, cats, chickens, pigs, a goat, and lots of land to play on. That move happened in l951, and for more than 50 years, Mom made her house our home. A good part of our family’s life was spent with Slovenian organizations, specifically the KSKJ Lodge and the Slovenian Women’s Union. Mom worked hard within these groups, whether cooking for dinners, planning events, or holding a variety of offices. She was very proud of her Slovenian heritage.” ZARJA THE DAWN “Mom was born in Hudikonec, Slovenia, then a part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, and she came to the United States in l937. Because of family circumstances and events of history, she was unable to get the formal education she desired. However, she always encouraged me to study hard, so that I could go on to college. Many other women of her generation believed that college was a waste of time for females, because marriage was the traditional goal. Whatever was needed for my studies, whether private time or materials, my Mom and my Dad made sure I had it. Education was a passion in my Mom’s life, whether on a large or a small scale. I know that she would love the idea that a scholarship bears her name.” For a more detailed biography of Frances Kurilich see the May-June l999 issue of Zarja. FRANCES BARMAN SCHOLARSHIP Mr. and Mrs. Anthony Colnar have provided $2,000 to fund two 2012 Frances Barman Scholarships, in honor of Anthony’s mother, Frances Barman. Recipients of these awards are Kyle Lorek and Elizabeth Ancel. Frances came to Cleveland as a young widow with her son, Anthony, after her soldier husband was killed during World War I. Her work as a seamstress and love of gardening, all skills she learned in Slovenia, helped her to make a good adjustment to the American way of life. In l925, she married Joseph Barman. Frances was a dedicated worker and supporter of the Slovenian Women’s Union of America. The Colnars have been funding SWU Scholarships annually for more than twenty years. JOSEF PRINC AND ROSE MARIE PRINC GRADUATE SCHOOL SCHOLARSHIPS This is the first year of the Princ Graduate Scholarships, and both were awarded to a most deserving graduate student in honor of both Rose Marie Princ and Josef Princ. Lindsey Stratton received the Rose Marie and Josef Princ Graduate School Scholarships in the amount of $4,000. Rose Marie Princ has been one of SWU Scholarship Foundation’s most benevolent supporters for a number of years. Her life has been devoted to education of young people. A native of Chicago, Rose Marie is a life-long member of St. Stephen’s Church, Branch 2 met. She graduated from St. Mary’s High School and Rosary College with degrees in History and English. She continued her studies at Loyola, DePaul, and Northwestern Universities, and earned advanced degrees at the University of Chicago and Northern Illinois University. She taught at Nazareth Academy, and J. Sterling Morton High School for 27 years, and also served as its administrator for 14 years. Upon retirement Rose Marie served on the Executive Board, as well as Treasurer and President of the Retired Teachers Association. Rose Marie, now residing in Las Vegas, AUGUST/SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012 Nevada, continues to teach adult classes and is active in numerous organizations. Josef Princ, husband of Rose Marie Princ, was a native of Velika, Bukovca, Illirska Bistrica, Slovenia, and graduated with an Engineering Degree from the University of Ljubljana. He continued his studies in Germany. After immigrating to the United States in l957, he continued his studies and worked for Nichols Home Shield as their chief designer and acquired a number of patents. He also designed for Anderson Window Company. Josef loved being an American, although he was also very proud of his heritage. Josef, now deceased, was a devoted supporter of the Slovenian Cultural Center in Lemont, Illinois. On April 24, 2012, a SWU Scholarship Foundation Board meeting was held at the St. Vitus Retirement Village, Cleveland, OH. The church and its surrounding gardens and buildings are all maintained in pristine condition. Marge Church brought me to a meeting of the Slovenian Pensioners held at the Slovenian National Home in Newburgh the next day. The warmth and friendliness of the pensioners was felt as soon as we entered the building. An oil painting of Piran, by artist Enika Zulec, was the main focus of the entrance; it varied in brilliant hues of Adriatic blues and greens which were enhanced by the glass block lighting shining on it from the front entrance. We visited the large kitchen run by the most efficient cooks one could ask for. It was a wonderful experience for me from Upper Michigan (full of great Swedes and Finish people) to be surrounded by my Slovene countrymen. We met some wonderful people there, all with interesting stories to share, and had a wonderful time. VP Millie Stautihar was presiding as President of the Pensioners that day in place of Art Vanutic. Olga Dorchak, always bright and shining, did her treasurer’s job before leaving for a surgical appointment the next morning. We wish her a speedy recovery. Students and Educators! May you have a most productive 2012-2013 academic year! May all of Slovenian Union of America members have an enjoyable and meaningful fall and holiday season! For further information on the SWU Scholarship Foundation awards program or to send a most appreciated and needed contribution, please contact: Mary Turvey, Director, 4 Lawrence Drive, Marquette, Michigan 49855, mturvey@aol.com or Marge Church, 1028 Sklyand Drive, Macedonia, Ohio 44056, yemec1@windstream.net. Checks should be addressed to: SWU Scholarship Foundation, 4 Lawrence Drive, Marquette, Michigan 49855. 11 Festival Of Nations: Twin Cities Slovenians Slovenian Union Of America By Norm Setnicker Photos: John Zakelj M innesota’s largest ethnic celebration, the Festival of Nations, concluded their 80th anniversary with a record attendance of over 80,000 people. The fourday celebration (May 3-6) consisted of over 50 cultural exhibits, 28 folk art demonstrations, 50 countries in an international bazaar area, 55 ethnic dance groups, and 35 ethnic café menus which also included a “Wines of the World” area and an international candies booth. The Slovenian Union of America’s Branch 109 - Twin Cities (TC) Slovenians centered its activities on the themerelated cultural exhibit: “World Festivals and Celebrations.” A planning committee consisting of Sue Rademacher, Mike Koski, John Zakelj, Frank Medved, and Norm Setnicker picked the Festival stare trte or Old Vine Festival as a celebration of the Slovenian culture. The Festival is held in Maribor, Slovenia the last two weeks of September each year when it honors the 400-year-old grape vine (oldest living grape vine in the world). It just so happened that Sue and Dave Rademacher along with Norm and Mary Ann Setnicker had attended the Festival in Maribor this past September. The Slovenian culture is steeped in a rich tradition of festivals, celebrations, and holidays. This rich tradition reflects, not only the cycle of seasons, but the diversity of its people and their surroundings. The Festival of the Old Vine is one of the most important festivals in Slovenia and is directly linked to the native traditions of wine making, cuisine, organic farming, song, dance, and beekeeping. Research about the Festival traces its roots back centuries ago when in 1335 the wine trade in the then Hapsburg Empire was concentrated in Maribor in present day Slovenia. 12 The most important event of the Festival is the grape gathering ceremony, which occurs on the final day (day seven) of the Festival. The mayor of Maribor, considered the “ceremonial” master of the old vine, determines that the grapes are ripe and he orders the grape harvest to begin. Grape gatherers from Sampetra, near Maribor, collect, weigh, measure the sugar content, grind, press, pour the juice into containers, and hand over the ingredients to the care of the Meranovo Estate. Near the site of the Old Vine (Lent-The Old Vine House) and at the end of the grape harvest, the last wooden tub of grapes symbolically meets with the first tub of manure or as one writer stated, “we have to return to the Old Vine that which with the grapes we took away.” The youngest Sidney Setnicker and Marge Pryately ZARJA THE DAWN Please note the pictures of our exhibit featuring the backdrop for the Old Vine, a cutout of Kranjska Sivka (a popular photo shoot), a “cebelnjak (bee house)” with the traditional folk art fronts depicting historical events, Bible stories and everyday village life; along with a display of honeybee products donated by one of the largest beekeepers from Polhov Gradec. Two young students Chloe Samec and Sydney Setnicker Wood are pictured in a homemade “Kranjska Sivka” costume made by Jean Rolsted. Rich and Chloe Samec grape gatherer puts a grape on a vine shoot so that the vine will drink its own juice. Grafts of the Old Vine have been given to different dignitaries from around the world. Pope John Paul II was given one of the first grafts and it is bearing fruit in Rome. Other scions have been planted in such places as the Wine Museum of Paris and in neighboring countries surrounding Slovenia. This year’s scion is planted in the Bled Castle in Slovenia itself. Receiving a bottle of this noble wine, “modra kavcina”, were such people as Milan Kucan, first President of Slovenia; Bill Clinton, former President of the United States; and Japanese Emperor Akihito. Part of the Festival of the Old Vine is the celebration of beekeeping. Beekeeping has for many years been a significant part of the life style and cultural heritage of Slovenian people and goes back to the days when people still had no refined sugar; there was hardly a farm in Slovenia that did not keep bees in addition to other domestic animals. Slovenia is the homeland of the Carniolan grey bee or “Kranjska Sivka.” It is known for being hard working, gentle and having an excellent sense of orientation. This bee “race” has spent hundreds of years adapting to Slovenia’s climate and forage conditions. In fact, Slovenia is the only European Union member state that has protected its indigenous bee race, which means no other bee race is allowed to be bred there. There is a saying that it is “Slovenian” to be a beekeeper. In fact there are four beekeepers for every thousand Slovenians, which is a world record. And even though there is no direct connection of the honeybee pollinating grapes (grapes tend to be wind pollinated), the Slovenian culture values beekeeping as a balance in nature. Bees in Slovenia were kept in low wooden hives, which were stacked close together in several long rows. These were known as Carniolan hives. A little wooden house was built for them in a protected part of the orchard where all the bee colonies were kept under the same roof, protected from snow and cold in the winter and scorching heat in the summer. John Medved, a member of the TC Slovenians, built a table, which served as the base of our exhibit beehive and then added the beehive fronts, which have become unique folk art of Slovenia today. Probably no other nation in the world is as emotionally attached to bees as the Slovenians. Even though our exhibit at the Festival of Nations could not depict the singing, dancing, and Slovenian cuisine, the Festival of the Old Vine truly reflects the rich culture of Slovenia and shares this culture with its neighboring countries of Austria, Croatia, Hungary, and Italy. The nine-day program includes International Organic Farm Day, Wine and Food routes of neighboring countries, the Old Vine for children, Gala Day on the river Drava, and Raftsman’s Baptism, along with concerts and popular music events. Mike Koski, Sue Rademacher, Sidney and Kranjska Sivka AUGUST/SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012 13 Death of a Surname By George Plautz, Zarja Staff Writer A Record of Immigration We continue with the pioneers who came to Stearns County, Minnesota; some immigrated due to the efforts of missionary, Father Pierz, to settle and farm in the area and some came to establish businesses. As in all Slovenian immigrant communities, many of the families that came to America were related and later intermarried others in the community, so for Stearns County and St. Louis County in Minnesota, many of the families can be traced through different lines going back to Slovenia. This also happened in Willard, Wisconsin, and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, and eventually, Cleveland, Ohio. 1862-During this year Joseph Kraker arrived in the United States from Jerneja Vas, Dragatus Parish, in Slovenia. He was first employed in a store in Hancock, Michigan, and then he became a trader to the Indians and settlers in northern Michigan and northern Wisconsin. Joseph lived in Chicago for a while and then he and his brother John engaged in the mercantile business in Shannon, Carroll County, Illinois. In 1870 he sold his interest in the business and went to Minnesota. He married Maria Bohmer on September 15, 1874. Joseph was born on November 1, 1843 and he died October 6, 1907; Maria Bohmer was born in September of 1857 and died on August 29, 1923. Joseph’s father was named Mathias. The following children were born to Joseph and Maria in Albany, Stearns County, Minnesota: John J. (1875-1908); Frank (1877); William Frederick (1879-1953); Joseph (1881-1956); Anton (1883); Rose (1885-1967) married Edward Henry; Leo M. (1887); Alphonse H. (1889-1966); Veronica A. (1892-1952) married Frank Mathis; Christine (1894); Mary Katherine (18961977); and Bernard (1899-1969). In the 1930 U.S. Census, Anton and Leo are living with their mother. I cannot locate them after that. Joseph was prominent in business and in banking. First, he lived in Albany, then moving to Melrose. Some of the history written in The History of Stearns County is the same as that written for his son, but his business interests were shared with his sons, John, Joseph, and Anthony (Anton). He owned several businesses and one of them was a prune orchard in California where he spent several months each year. John J. attended college at St. John’s College in Collegeville. In 1893 he entered into business with his father; he bought the Dowes Hardware store in Melrose. The new enterprise was known as Kraker & Son. After selling and buying the business, it ended up the interest of John Kraker and W. Bohmer and was known as Kraker & Bohmer. In addition, the partnership bought the Farmer’s Lumber Company. After selling this concern they opened “The Big Store”, the first real department store in Melrose. In 1902 the partnership was dissolved and John J. Kraker became the sole owner, moving the store across the street to the Kraker block. He continued the business until June 14 Slovenian Pioneers to America 1840-1879 of 1908 when he sold to his brothers, Joseph and Anthony Kraker. Other activities he participated in were as a cashier of the Bank of North America, a stockholder in the Scandinavian State Bank, secretary of the Commercial Club, and in 1897 he was elected as city treasurer. He held that position until 1907 when his health began to decline. John J. Kraker died on November 29, 1908. He was married at that time to Margaret Slavin of St. Paul. In 1916, A.E. (Anton) Kraker and Joseph Kraker purchased the Melrose telephone company, selling it in 1928. Much of this information came from The History of Stearns County. The surname was known as Krakar in Slovenia. 1864-During this year Jacob Peternell arrived in St. Stephen, (Brockway Township), Minnesota. He was born July 13, 1841, in Grabce, south of Jesenice, Slovenia, the son of Simon Peternell. Later, several other sons of Simon also immigrated to Minnesota. Jacob married Helen Urbashish in St. Stephen. They had the following children: Gertrude, who married Peter Zupan; John, died in a farm accident in North Dakota; Joseph, born about 1877, died May 30, 1926; Mary, born June 17, 1879, died June 16, 1957, married Paul Blenkush in 1901, the son of Paul Blenkush and Mary Smoley; Johana, born May 8, 1881, died January 13, 1970, married Michael Blenkush, the son of Paul Blenkush and Mary Smoley; and Louis, born September 29, 1883, died July 14, 1956, married Agnes Peternell. Jacob died on April 10, 1926. Jacob was a farmer, and his family intermarried with others who came to Minnesota from the same region of Slovenia. He and his family, with the exception of John, all lived and died in St. Stephen. 1866-During this year, Gregor Peternell, arrived in St. Stephen, Minnesota. Gregor born February 25, 1839, in Grabce, Slovenia, was the son of Simon Peternell, also the father of Jacob Peternell, previously mentioned. Gregor married Helena G. Cherne on January 21, 1875, in St. Stephen. Gregor and Helena had the following children: Frank Gregor, born December 8, 1875, died July 8, 1961; Andrew, born October 8, 1878, died May 20, 1970, married Anna Bier; Mary, born April 9, 1885, died July 27, 1964, married Charles Laurich; Helen, born May 15, 1893, died February 8, 1976, married Andrew Robich, Gregor died on December 9, 1917. He was also a farmer and his family also lived in St. Stephen (Brockway Township), Minnesota. 1866-During this year, Andrew Blenkush, arrived in St. Stephen, Minnesota. Andrew was born October 31, 1843 in Kranjska Gora, Slovenia, and died June 8, 1924, in St. Stephen. He married three times: first to Maria Urbas, born November 21, 1871; Frances Uvevc, May 9, 1892; and Frances Oretz, marriage unknown. The children born to Andrew and Maria were: Mary, born about 1872, married ZARJA THE DAWN February 29, 1892, to George Herzing; Joseph, born April 10, 1874, died about 1965; Ana Maria, born December 8, 1875, died September 1, 1962, married John G Herzing; Regina Elizabeth, born November 19, 1880, died April 20, 1953, married Adolf Fisher on October 2, 1889; Johana, born about 1880, died about 1970, married May 18, 1896, to Bernard Kirmeier; Anton, born January 16, 1882, died September 24, 1962; Andrew Paul, born February 4, 1884, died April 7, 1971; Agnes Mary, born December 8, 1885, died June 18, 1983; and Eleanor, born about 1885. 1866-During this year, Mathias Dobrantz, born about 1827 in Slovenia, died before 1895 in Stearns County, Minnesota, and his wife arrived in Brockway Township, Stearns County, Minnesota. His wife, Appolonia, was born about 1826 and died April 16, 1909, in Brockway Township, Stearns County. Recently, I retrieved the results of my DNA analysis. I found my haplogroup to be R1a1, M17, which designates the pathway my ancestors came to Slovenia. All Europeans came from the cradle of civilization in Africa, my pathway included the Middle East, Hindi, India, eastern Iran, and Czechoslovakia before our ancestor adventurers finally settled in the region of Slovenia. The different branches settled in the various locations due to it being impassable during periods of the Ice Age. Settlers with the haplogroup R1a1 were an agrarian society; believed in burial of the dead, lived on the land. Meanwhile settlers with R1b1 came from the south and were more aggressive. With the assistance of Gary Gorsha, a fellow member of Slovenian Genealogy Society International, Inc. - SGSI, I found that those with Y DNA with haplogroups of R1a1, R1b1, and I “eye” generally indicate residence in Slovenia. Females with Mitochondrial DNA (MTDNA) studies that have roots in Slovenia are H and U. Men can request both a Y and MTDNA kit, although it takes two kits to get the results. This is because men have a chromosome of XY. Women can only request the MTDNA kit as their chromosome is XX. To have family members take the same test, you can only trace the paternal line through the man, the female line traces mother to grandmother to great grandmother and so on. The National Geographic Society (NGS) study only traces 12 DNA markers instead of the 46 of the Sorenson Molecular Genealogy Foundation (SMGF), recently purchased by Genetree and now Ancestry. In the past, SGSI members were asked to participate for free as part of a Slovenia project. According to fellow member, Rich Terselic, who sent me an article from the Wall Street Journal, there are now three websites that offer DNA analysis: Ancestry, Family Tree DNA (FTDNA), and 23andMe, Inc. Ancestry requires a reservation to obtain a kit. There is no mention of the National Geographic genealogy project. Here is the URL to request a kit: https:/ /genographic.nationalgeographic.com/genographic/lan/en/ participate.html. Both NGS and Ancestry will cost 99 dollars plus tax to obtain the kit and for NGS the results are only posted online. They include a key (pin) in order to track the kit so you have to remember where you put it. Ancestry maps 700,000 markers, while NGS only tracks 12 markers. All of these depend on the size of their databases to determine if matches can be received. Gary Gorsha, AUGUST/SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012 August 4, 1866-On this date, Anton Gogala immigrated to Krain, Stearns County, Minnesota. Anton was born about 1814 and died about 1895. He was a blacksmith and farmer. He married Agnes and they had a daughter, Agnes, who married Anton Kapus (mentioned in a previous article), and a son, Anton, born about 1842. Anton married Gertrude Slivnick about 1869 in Krain, Minnesota. Anton and Gertrude had the following children: Anton, born about 1869, died before 1891; Johanna, born March 29, 1876, died February 19, 1965; Anna, born about 1877; John, born May 3, 1882, died November 5, 1897, married Frances Geisenhof; Michael, born September 29, 1886; died May 3, 1969; and Anton, born December 19, 1891, died June 23, 1964. All lived in Stearns County, Minnesota. Descendants remain in Minnesota and several have family trees on the web. previously mentioned, had created a project on the FTDNA website to track those who are interested in establishing a database of Slovenians and their descendants. Thus far there are 59 entries (combining both Y and MTDNA results) on the website database for Slovenia, I am not sure how you transfer results of other DNA research but there is a link on the NGS web page that allows you to upload the results to FTDNA https:// www.familytreedna.com/login.aspx With a couple of emails and assist from Gary, I finally got my results transferred. Gary sent me some electronic references to DNA studies, which enabled me to interpret my pathway to Slovenia. These references can be found at http:// www.veneti.info/prispevki/multilingua/english/380-newunderstanding-of-western-eurasia-in-prehistoric-times and http://aklyosov.home.comcast.net/~aklyosov/52%202012.pdf At first I did not know that R1a1 was one of the usual results of DNA analysis for the people of Slovenia, so I was somewhat surprised to find I was genetically presumed to have come from the country. My Plavec (Plautz) line in Doblice goes back to 1720, so I knew that my family had been there awhile. However, I suspected that perhaps my results would reveal that I had Germanic roots, since where we come from in Slovenia is right next door to the settlement of Gottscheers who came sometime in the 14th Century. Knowing my haplogroup allowed me to find my DNA on SMGF. The initial test did not provide the results back to the participants. I was surprised to learn that in both the Slovenia project on FTDNA and SMGF, Rich Terselic matched on 11 markers out of 12. While this does not indicate we are related through close kinship, we both come from different areas of Slovenia. It indicates that with additional participants that more will be known about the early evolution of the Slovenian DNA prototype. Megan Smolenyak, author of Trace Your Roots with DNA, provides additional assistance in defining the different markers and I hope to continue my research of the results of my DNA analysis. My next article continues with the immigrants to Stearns County, Minnesota, and Clinton County, Iowa. To contact me by mail: George Plautz, 1307 Dragon Head Drive, Valrico, FL 33594, or by e-mail at doblice@gmail.com 15 JOE KOVACH STORY by Mary Lou Deyak Voelk © Joseph Kovach was born in 1904 in Ely, Minnesota. At this time in history, swarms of people were immigrating to this northern region in search of jobs. The richest of iron ore had been discovered just a few years earlier. In the next decades, Joe and Ely would “grow up” together; their “lives” would experience forces of time and change. Joe was the Slovenian presence in Ely. His research and writings on the Slovenian Library (^italnica) and the Jugoslav National Home are forever preserved. His support in assisting early Ely immigrants and the community remains most honorable. This document is dedicated to the memory of Joseph Kovach. The Life of Joseph Kovach, Ely, Minnesota Jozef Kova~ was born (1883) in Gric, District of Crnomelj, Slovenia. Marija Lovsin (Loushin) was born (1883) in Susje, District of Metlika, Slovenia. They were married on January 19, 1904, in St. Anthony Catholic Church, Ely, Minnesota. Joseph (Joe), born on November 22, 1904, was their first-born. Jozef was employed as a horse handler for the mining company. On July 31, 1915, Jozef was tragically killed in an accident involving the horse and wagon. Marija (Mary) became a widow with four young children. At the time of his father’s death Joe was not quite 11 years old. Mary turned their home into a boarding house. She and the children slept in the attic while the boarders took their former rooms. They ate whatever was left of the meals their mother provided to the boarders. One of the boarders was John Logar (born December 18, 1886, in Radovic, District of Metlika, Slovenia) Mary and John were married on January 26, 1919. Three more children were born of this union. 16 A copy of the original sketch by Bob Cary, then Editor of the Ely Echo, as part of the Citizen of the Northland series for the Echo as published during the 1980-1990 years. (Printed with permission from the Ely Echo.) Young Joe left school in the seventh grade, and worked at any jobs he could find. At age 18, he found employment as an ironworker at the new power plant and dam site on Fall Lake, located a few miles from Ely, in Winton, Minnesota. Today the Winton Hydro Electric Dam continues to supply electricity to the surrounding area. Joseph Kovach* and Anna Ursula Owen (born 1907) were married on June 10, 1928, in St. Anthony de Padua Church in Ely. Anna, one of nine children, was the daughter of Mary Dormish and Frank Oven (Owen), recent immigrants from Slovenia. Joe and Anna had experienced mining tragedies first hand. Both of their fathers were victims of mining accidents. Joe’s father lost his life and Anna’s father lost an arm. Three children were born to this union: Maxine Ann Kovach Jacks (born 1931), Barbara Jean Kovach Poyneer (born 1936), and JoAnne Kovach (born 1940). *Immigrant people often changed the spelling of their last names to make pronunciation easier in America - the ~ was often changed to ch. ZARJA THE DAWN The 1920’s were unique years, a time that “embodied America.” It was the roaring twenties; progress and change was all around. It was the five-dollar workday, the Model T car, a radio in every home, the Charleston dance, flagpole sitting, “flapper” women with bobbed hair and makeup, and distinguished writers such as Sinclair Lewis, Carl Sandburg, Ernest Hemingway, and F. Scott Fitzgerald. A number of historical changes were about to occur; the good times were not to last. Ely and its people would not be spared - the Great Depression, rationing, and the supermarket. Mary Kovach and children, 1915-1916 Front row: Mathias, Mary (Mimi), Mary Lovsin Kovach, John (Breezy); Back row: Joseph In the 1920‘s, Joe and his brother, John (Breezy), opened Kovach Brothers. The store had been the former Smrekar’s Food Market. Founded by Jacob Smrekar, it served the community from 1912-1923. After Jacob died, his wife lost the store. The 1930 Census documents Joe, age 25, as a grocery store proprietor. Historically, it would seem most probable the Kovach Brothers opened prior to Joe’s and Anna’s wedding and prior to the financial market crash of 1929. Left to right: Breezy and Joseph When I was asked to write a few words about my father, Joseph Kovach, I had to think back to retrieve my earliest memory of him. Dad owned a grocery store in Ely. It was New Year’s Day and he was taking inventory for tax purposes. My older sister, Maxine, and I were with him at the store, playing with the dolls we had received as Christmas gifts. Perhaps I lost interest in the doll? The hand-cranked, lunchmeat-slicing machine looked more intriguing. It sure did cut! I cut off the first two fingers of my right hand. Dad scooped the fingers, wrapped everything in a butcher’s apron, and rushed us to the Shipman Hospital. It was probably Dr. Sutherland who was able to save my entire second finger and all but the tip of my index finger. From then on, my Dad could do no wrong. He was my hero. I must have been just short of my 4th birthday. - Barbara Kovach Poyneer, Renton, Washington AUGUST/SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012 17 *The Depression had a massive impact on the Iron Range. By the time President Franklin Roosevelt took office in March 1933, the people of the Iron Range were facing desperate poverty. Unemployment had reached 70%. The Red Cross was distributing free government surplus flour. Despite relief funds from federal, state, charitable organizations, and mutual aid benefit societies, suffering from the problems of the unemployed remained acute. It took the combined impact of New Deal programs to lift the burden in northern Minnesota. “President Roosevelt believed the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) could bring together two wasted resources, the young men and the land, in an attempt to save both.” The National Industrial Recovery Act, through production codes negotiated between the Roosevelt Administration and the steel industry, resulted in miners being called back to work for higher rates of pay for an eighthour day. This came to pass in July 1933. Late in 1933, the Civil Works Administration employed men on public works projects in their home communities across the Iron Range. *Political Culture in Microcosm: Minnesota’s Iron Range by Pamela A. Brunfelt Store During World War II, “food” was a complex subject for both storeowners and families. Ration stamps became a type of currency. Each member of the family was issued ration books. Families were challenged to pool the stamps and plan family meals using what was available. For the grocer, having a sustainable and available stock for the customer proved unpredictable, and less stock meant less profit. Grocers also had families that needed to eat. These were the days when the grocer stopped by, sat at the kitchen table, wrote up the family food order, and delivered the following day. Perhaps a bill was submitted once a month, or pay when you can? The first stamps in War Ration Book One were for the purchase of sugar, rationed from 1942-1947. When the book was issued, one was asked how much sugar was owned on that date. While you could keep the sugar, stamps representing this quantity were torn from your group. Rationed for almost four years were coffee, processed foods, meats, canned fish, milk, cheese, and fats. Supermarkets: It began in the 1930’s, a new breed of larger, cash only, non-delivery, self-service grocery stores. After WWII, this format took off. Food stores decreased and supermarkets increased. During the 1930-1940’s and into the 1950’s there were over fourteen small-town grocers in Ely. Competition was Proprietor Location Stores in the same building, in order of their existence Bernie’s Store *Kovach Brother’s Market Smrekar’s Food Store City Meat and Grocery Co-op Corner Store Economy Cash Market Ely Table Supply Finnish Stock Blue Ribbon Market Minnesota Market Gambles Skogmo Grahek’s Store Harri’s Store Klun’s Meat and Grocery Kobe’s Store National Tea (1st cash & carry in Ely) Pengal’s Seme’s Market Skala’s Store Piggly Wiggly Zupancich Brothers 18 Bernie Hutar Joe and Breezy Kovach Jack, John, Matt, Steve Smrekar John Buccowich Carl Baraga, Mgr. Tony Bubash Joe Pucel Sr. (future IGA) Anton Lozar Eddie Porthan, Mgr. Dominic Elioff, Mgr. Dominic Elioff, Mgr. Dominic Elioff, Mgr. Steve Grahek Tom Harri Joseph Klun Sr. Matt Kobe Dominic Elioff, Mgr. Frank Pengal Tony and Frank Seme Frank Skala Bill Rikhus, Mgr. Zup’s Store East Sheridan Street East Sheridan Street East Sheridan Street 1st Avenue South East Chapman Street East Conan Street East Sheridan Street East Sheridan Street East Sheridan Street East Chapman Street East Chapman Street East Chapman Street East Sheridan Street North Central Avenue 117 North Central Avenue East Sheridan Street East Sheridan Street East Sheridan Street West Sheridan Street East Sheridan Street East Sheridan Street East Sheridan Street ZARJA THE DAWN fierce. Another force was occurring; Ely’s population was waning. After WWII, and 20+ years in the grocery business, Kovach Brothers was sold to brothers Jack (Smuk), John, and Matt Smrekar, and cousin Steve Smrekar. The Smrekar name was back on the storefront. Joe headed east to Hartford, Connecticut, where he studied the insurance business. In 1946, at the age of 40, Joe began a new career. He opened an insurance agency located above the Ely Theater on Chapman Street. One entered through a side door of the building, with a direct stairway to the office located on the second floor. In the early 1950’s a mining company opened a largescale taconite processing plant in Babbitt, about 15 miles from Ely. Low-grade iron ore was crushed, the iron extracted, and made into pellets. It was the first of its kind in the world. This new industry revived the old town of Babbitt. New homes and streets appeared. Joe became the local insurance agent for mining operations and for the community of Babbitt. Maxine, with newly acquired typing skills, became the secretary. Barbara was next in line. Her corporate typing skills were learned in Miss McIver’s typing class. Barbara clearly recalls typing long policies and amendments, seven copies each. Then she would lay them out on the floor where she would paste them together in long documents. Throughout his adult life, Joe served the Ely community in civic, fraternal, religious, and economic development roles. He was especially proud of his more than 20 years of service on the Ely Draft Board. Joe was appointed to the first hospital governing board of the new Ely-Bloomenson Hospital. He was a life-long member of St. Anthony Catholic Church and served for many years as a church trustee. Joe’s dedication and long involvement with the American Fraternal Union (AFU)* was in keeping with his Slovenian heritage. *The fraternal lodge was originally established in 1898, by a group of Ely miners of Slovene descent and of Roman Catholic denomination; its official name, Jugoslovenska katoliška jednota (JSKJ) - South Slovenian Catholic Union. It offered life insurance and some sick benefits. Headquartered in Ely, it served lodges throughout the United States. The small town of Ely had seven lodges affiliated with the JSKJ - Lodge No. 1 - Sts. Cyril and Methodius, Lodge No. 2 Sacred Heart of Jesus, Lodge No. 114 Slovenec, Lodge No. 120 - Immaculate Conception, Lodge No. 129 - not known, Lodge AUGUST/SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012 No. 184 - Arrowhead, and Lodge No. 200 - St. Barbara. All but St. Barbara were members, with representation, of the Jugoslav National Home in Ely. The Nova Doba was the official Slovenian publication, later replaced with the English version, The New Era. The name AFU was adopted in 1941. In September 2011, the AFU merged with Catholic United Financial (CUF) with corporate headquarters in St. Paul, Minnesota. The present magazine publication is Our Catholic Journey. In the late 1920’s and early 1930’s, Joe served as the secretary of Lodge No. 1 - St Cyril and Methodius, and later served as the president. He was their representative to the Jugoslav National Home (JNH) and served as the JNH board secretary. Joe served as president in the 1970’s and 1980’s. He was on the finance committee and planning/building committee during the construction of the new JNH building on Chapman Street. Joe moved his insurance agency into a rented office of the new building when it was completed. Joe could speak, read, and write in Slovenian. He also spoke Croatian, Serbian, and could get along with Bulgarians. His linguistic talents served as a support system for early Slovenian immigrants and those from Eastern Europe. Joe served as an interpreter at legal appointments and/or government agencies. Social Security was an important issue, and birth certificates were needed from Jugoslavia. There were long arduous issues with inheritances of family land in Slovenia. Joe interpreted long-awaited family letters from the old country, and through his involvement, kept the families in touch. He was especially sensitive to the plight and welfare of new widows. These women were a constant reminder of his own mother who was left with four small children. Many Ely residents were the recipients of his quiet acts of assistance and support throughout the years. Joe referred to his cabin on Farm Lake as his work farm. He and his family shared their love of this lake place; swarms of relatives and close friends gathered each summer. After swimming and boating there was Joe’s famous hamburgers grilled on his homemade fireplace, with a stove griddle on top. Blueberry picking was his passion. He swam regularly until his death at the age of 93 years. The Farm Lake cabin remains in the family and is currently owned by Maxine Kovach Jacks and her four children. Swarms of people continue to gather each summer, but not to the extent of those early days. 19 Jugoslav National Home, where John Marolt, mama’s uncle, worked as a bartender. It was an outing I have never forgotten. Uncle gave me a handful of dimes for the slot machine. Watching the cherries and lemons roll was magic to my eyes. The dimes used up, I climbed the stairs to the second floor and walked into a large hall. I saw a door. The scene behind that door remains vivid in my mind, even after many years. I was four years old and there I stood. Little did I know that before me were the books of the “old Slovenian Library!” There were several more visits to the National Home, and each time I would scale the steps and look upon those books. Strange as it may seem, I never touched them! I just stood, and fixated on the shelves of books. It must be mentioned that Joe was an ardent Pinocle player. Every Friday evening card players gathered at the National Home for some diligent card playing. Slovenian was the language of the evening. On December 1, 1965, Frank Shusta of Ely bought the insurance agency. It became official on January 1, 1966. Joe stayed on as an advisor for the 1966 year. Frank describes Joe as their birddog. In the following years, Joe was always willing to help out and to share his wealth of information. Joe always had concern for the success of the agency. During his 32 years of retirement, Joe devoted many hours in researching Slovenian history, the heritage of the Ely area, and that of his family. He and Anna made several trips to Slovenia. He was a prolific contributor to the Slovenian Research Center of America, which honored him for his significant contributions to Slovenian history. His articles appeared in The Nova Doba/ The New Era and the local Ely paper, The Ely Miner, and later The Ely Echo. Joe died on February 10, 1998, at age 93. His wife Anna died May 28, 2011, at age 102. They had celebrated 69 years together. Joe and Anna on their 60th wedding anniversary. Where else but at Farm Lake. Cyril Logar was playing his squeezebox. It happened about 10 years ago; imagine opening a book and finding the name Joe Kovach, Ely, Minnesota, penned inside the front cover. Joe was known to have a very distinctive signature; he scripted a very large letter J. How did these books come to our library in Joliet? I had heard of an Ely Slovenian Library of old and of library books being stored at the AFU office in Ely. A call to Irene Odorizzi gave me the answer. And then a flashback! It was summer. It was daddy, mama, each holding my hand, as I skipped along between them. My sister, Judy, was not yet with us, I had to be four years old. We were on our way to the 20 For the last several years I have slowly accumulated historical pieces of information, all with the aid of so many enthusiastic people. Joe’s historic research published over 30 years ago in the New Era and the Ely Echo are most informative. In our museum archives, is correspondence between Joe Kovach and Irene Odorizzi as to the shipment of books to Joliet! The books were shared between the University of Minnesota and the Slovenian Women’s Union of America. Gracious thanks to the following people; without them, Joe’s Biography and the History of the Slovenian Library could not have been written: Lovsin Family Genealogy, by Laura Michel Poyneer Barbara Kovach Poyneer, Renton, Washington Leona Janezic and Liz Sever, former AFU employees Frank Shusta, Joann Stupnik Keranen, Bernie and Gerry Petrich, Dolly Kastelec Shober, and Beverly Lobe, all of Ely Dolores Mikolich Faas, Diamondhead, Mississippi Chuck Mikolich, Minneapolis, Minnesota Dominic Elioff, Virginia, Minnesota Kathleen Bergan, Iron Range Historical Society, Gilbert, MN Ely Echo ZARJA THE DAWN ^ITALNICA History of the Slovenska ^italnica and the Jugoslavanski Narodni Dom Ely, Minnesota It had been passed down through the years. A group of Slovenians in Ely organized a Slovenska ~italnica (library or reading room). Sadly, no written records were kept until June, 1911. To understand why such a desire and need for a Slovenian library, one must peer back into the ages of history. The Slovenes were suppressed for centuries by foreign powers, yet they held onto their language. In 1550, Primoz Trubar published the first two books in Slovene, Katekizem and Abecednik. Fifty more books in Slovene, including the first grammar book and a translation of the Bible by Dalmatin, followed. The Enlightenment, the notion of human rights, became an attractive and powerful notion to the oppressed. It hastened the rise of the Slovene middle class. In 1774, compulsory education and primary education in the Slovene language was introduced. During the “Spring of Nations” in March and April of 1848, Slovenes demanded that all lands inhabited by the Slovenes be united into a province, called Slovenia. In that province, Slovene would be the official language. Now in America, English was the language of the land. An intense flame of identity was now burning in the hearts of those in Ely, Minnesota. by Mary Lou Deyak Voelk © Publishing Company Inc. of Duluth, Minnesota. The first issue of Narodni Vestnik made its appearance on April 13, 1911. It began as a weekly newspaper and ended as a biweekly in 1917, and had operated under at least six different editors. The paper and the firm were apparently the brainchild of George L. Brozich, Ely banker and the firm’s president. According to the Duluth Business Directories of 1911-1912 and 1912-1913, the printing company was located at 31 E. Michigan Street in downtown Duluth with G. L. Brozich as president. The following made up the ^italnica staff: Joseph Mantel, Director, John Zupan, Secretary and Editor, George Brozich, President, Joseph Gerzin Sr. Vice President, and John Koschak, Treasurer. From, “They Chose Minnesota: A Survey of the State’s Ethnic Groups”; Minnesota Historical Society Press, Dec. 1, 2003; June D. Holmquist. The first ^italnica was located in the Mantel Building, just south of the present day Zupancic Grocery parking lot on Sheridan Street. The building is still standing today. Library patrons could check out books; newspapers were available The group forged ahead using the necessary procedures in forming and establishing the Slovenska ^italnica. Monthly dues were twenty-five cents. Prevailing rumors at the time talked of the ^italnica members as having socialistic, anti-church, and anti-clergy leanings. Consequently, it was a smaller group. Individual members donated a considerable amount of books; monetary donations were used in purchasing new books. One member, it was said, added a new book to the ^italnica collection each time he paid his dues. The twentyfive cent dues assessment was used in purchasing newspapers. Newspapers available at the ^italnica during the years 1908-1919 were the following: Amerikanski Slovence, Glas Naroda, Glas Svoboda, Enakopravnost, Klevelandska Amerika, Narodni Vestnik* (National Herald), Proletarec, and Prosveta. The Narodni Vestnik* (National Herald) was financed by Elyites and published by the Slovenian Printing and AUGUST/SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012 The home of Joseph Mantel, Ely, MN; built around 1915 at a cost of $15,000. Today,the cost would be about $450,000. The ^italnica was kept in the glass casement bookshelves in the living room. Photo: Jean Stueland, granddaughter of Joseph Mantel 21 for reading at the library. After Mr. Mantel opened his hardware store, the ^italnica was relocated to a building on the southern part of the lot of the Ely Speed Wash. In 1913, notice was served that the building they occupied had been sold and was to be moved off the lot. The group decided to construct their own frame building on the northern half of a lot owned by John Teran. John Seliskar was in charge of construction with ^italnica members supplying many hours of free labor. Cost of materials and labor was $601.75. This building was much larger than any of the former quarters. Space enabled the ^italnica to generate additional revenue through rental fees and social activities. Various fraternal lodges began holding their monthly meetings at the ^italnica; the town of Ely used the building as a polling place. Ice cream, candy, cigars, cigarettes, and postal cards were sold on Saturday and Sunday. Each summer at least two outdoor picnics were held. Raffles and other games of chance were another source of income. Mrs. John Teran did the weekly cleaning for $1.50 per month. In July 1915, the ^italnica purchased the lot from John Teran for the sum of $500. To do this, they borrowed $400 from Joseph Kalan, with the understanding that if or when the lot and building were ever sold, Joseph Kalan would have the first chance to purchase it. The ^italnica sponsored a dramatic club called “Preseren,” that performed productions of Slovenian plays, and most probably, poetry readings. In July 1915, they sponsored the Singing Society Bell. By this time, the ^italnica was also receiving several English-speaking newspapers, the Duluth News Tribune and the Milwaukee Leader. At the March 1917 meeting, Joe Pishler, George L. Brozich, and others talked of the need of a Slovenian Home. George Brozich, Joe Pishler, Fred Vider, Jack Kunstelj, and Ivanka Somrock were appointed to make personal contacts with all Slovenian lodges, in high hopes they would join in with the ^italnica for the purpose of building a Slovenian Dom (home). Interest was strong. The ^italncia purchased two vacant lots from Matt Ogolin on the southeastern corner of Sixth Avenue and Sheridan Street. This site later served for many years as the Slogar Service Station. In the summer of 1918, Frank Veranth Sr. (not listed as a member), informed the group of the new two-story brick building owned by George and Thomas Hoskins of England that was for sale. At an early spring meeting in 1919, the Slovenska ^italnica, appointed a committee to investigate the Hoskins Building. At the January, February, March, and April meetings of 1919, the main topic discussed was 22 how to go about organizing all the fraternal lodges in Ely and Tower. At the April meeting it was decided that two members of each lodge would meet for that purpose. In June and July of 1919, a mass meeting was held. The president and secretary were instructed to contact Louis White at the First National Bank and make the necessary arrangements for the purchase of the Hoskins Building. An organization meeting was held on August 24, 1919, chaired by Frank Pecek, with Louis Buchar acting secretary. A total of $1,954.85 in cash and pledges was collected. At the time, officers of the ^italnica promised to donate their assets, including the income from the sale of the vacant lots at Sheridan Street and Sixth Avenue, providing that space in the building would be reserved for the library. Eight fraternal lodges, along with the ^italnica, agreed to sponsor the purchase of the Hoskin Building. The motion to form the organization was passed and the Jugoslavanska Narodni Dom, Jugoslav National Home (JNH) became a reality. The first officers were: John Judnich - President, Fred Vider - Vice President, Anton Bolka – Secretary, Louis Buchar - Recording Secretary, John Teren – Treasurer, Matt Poljner - Chairman, and Frank Martinjak and John Zaitz - Trustees. The JNH was incorporated without shares on August 25, 1919, with the management under the control of the various fraternal organizations. At the October 1919 meeting, lodge representatives from Sokol, Prvi Majnik, Jutrdjina Zora, and Ruda Societies were also present. These groups were members of the Slovene National Benefit Society. Also present were Srce Jezus, Slovenci of the South Slavonic Catholic Union, St. Anthony of the American Slovenian Catholic Union, and St. Barbara - a local unaffiliated society. Monthly dues were set at fifty cents per person. The last payment on the mortgage was made on August 31, 1921. In 1938, a total of seventeen societies or lodges were a part of the JNH. An on-sale liquor license was obtained in 1940. Expansion became a topic for discussion. In 1945, property across the street from the Ely Hardware (Merhar’s) was purchased. Joseph Kovach was delegated to negotiate with J. C. Penny Co. regarding rental on the main floor. The old Dom on Sheridan Street was sold in 1956 and the new Dom was ready for occupancy in January, 1957. Total cost of the building was approximately $200,000. Although the library was no longer open in the new Dom, about 500 library books were stored in their vault. The ZARJA THE DAWN books were later moved to the AFU building. Books from the Slovenska ^italnica, eventually, were placed at the University of Minnesota and the Slovenian Women’s Union of America. Correspondence between Irene Odorizzi and Joseph Kovach are filed in the SUA archives in Joliet, Illinois. In 1963, the University of Minnesota, Iron Range Project, recorded the early records of the Dom on microfilm; the film now is in the library of the Minnesota Historical Society (Immigrant Archives). Archived at the Immigration History Research Center, University of Minnesota, are the 1915-1917 minutes of the ^italnica .The collection consists of 58 pages of minutes. All are in Slovenian. The script, written by various secretaries, is a precursor of the Palmer Method and can be difficult to read. Mirjam Hladnik, from Slovenia, translated several paragraphs. Mirjam writes: It is the minutes of a meeting where they decided that on February 13, 1915, they will organize a ball in masks - maskarada , as a moneymaker for the Book Reading Room. This is Pust, the holiday that marks the approaching end of winter and when kurenti (in Slovenia) come out and people wear masks and krofi are fried. Scanned page of the minutes from 1918 In the minutes it is said that it will be in Seliskar Hall. The waiters were elected, John Seliskar and Justin Zajc. The musicians were “proposed and elected”: the son of Seliskar and Ignac Praznik. It was approved that the drinks will be “taken” from the Gostilna Gerzina and the cigars from Seliskar. The ticket seller was also elected; it was Vida. So, as you can see, this Seliskar guy was really something in the community! Thank you to the following: Kathleen Bergan, Curator Iron Range Historical Society, Gilbert, Minnesota Leona Janezic, Liz Sever, Frank Deyak, and Joann Keranen of Ely, Minnesota Jean Stueland, granddaughter of Joseph Mantel Ely Echo, New Era WANTED: Persons with advanced Slovenian skill in reading and writing to translate these 58 pages. It is not necessary to translate word for word. Most important is to record the facts, such as dates and names. Please contact: Mary Lou Deyak Voelk at ottolou@gulftel.com AUGUST/SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012 23 Student Teaching in Ljubljana, Slovenia Slovenia is an excellent teaching site for our students By James Sersha, Director, Education Department, Field Experiences Office, University of Minnesota-Duluth On a recent visit to the University of Minnesota-Duluth, I met up with Jim Sersha, a former neighbor, teacher colleague, and a fellow Slovenian! Several days later I called Jim and suggested he write an article on student teaching in the Danila Kumar Elementary School in Ljubljana, Slovenija. To Zarja readers: I know you will find student teaching in Slovenia most interesting. - Mary Lou Deyak Voelk nternational student teaching has always been a high priority at the University of Minnesota-Duluth (UMD). Our education faculty and students have continually supported the global student teaching experience. As director of the University of Minnesota-Duluth’s Field Experiences Office, it was my task to locate some schools abroad for student teaching. Because I am a Slovenian and have visited relatives there, I decided that Slovenia could be an excellent teaching site for our students. Even though Slovenia is not well known among college students, I knew that once they experienced Slovenia’s beauty, strong commitment to education, friendly people, and safe environment, it would interest some students. I UMD education students must have sixteen weeks of student teaching. International student teachers are required to teach eight weeks in Minnesota and eight weeks abroad. Our first group of three student teachers arrived in Slovenia in the Spring of 2011. I had concerns and anxieties, since this was a new international student teaching site. I soon realized that my concerns were unfounded. Student emails related their superb teaching experiences. Slovenia was safe, affordable, and very beautiful. This quelled my concerns regarding safety. Later that spring, I visited Slovenia and found that the placement of UMD student teachers at Danila Kumar School in Ljubljana, Slovenia, had been an excellent decision. After many inquiring emails to various Slovenian educators during the spring of 2010, I established contact with Irena Steblaj, headmistress of Danila Kumar International School, (preschool through grade eight) in Ljubljana. In August 2010, I met Ms. Steblaj and visited the school. I was impressed with the school and the professionalism of the faculty and staff. An agreement, establishing a partnership between Danila Kumar and the University of MinnesotaDuluth, was finalized. Irena Steblaj now supervises our students and acts as our contact in Slovenia. The first group arrived in Ljubljana in March of 2011; eight more students left for Slovenia in the Fall of 2011. Four arrived the first eight weeks and four the second eight weeks. Because of the high interest to student teach in Slovenia, a somewhat pleasant problem had developed. Danila Kumar School can only accommodate four to five student teachers every eight weeks. Therefore, a lottery was set up for the Spring 2012 session. We will now be sending two groups of five student teachers to Slovenia every eight weeks. The remaining students have decided to do their student teaching in Ireland, another country with much beauty and culture. The Danila Kumar Elementary School is a state-owned school. It provides international elementary and secondary programs for expatriated children living in Slovenia. The Slovenian Ministry of Education financially supports this school, covering more than half of the operational costs, making the tuition fees at Danila Kumar considerably lower than at other international schools. There are twelve to eighteen students in each class, which makes an excellent teacher-pupil ratio. A range of afternoon activities are also offered, most at no extra cost. The school retains the services of a dentist, a speech therapist, an educational psychologist, and a school counselor. 24 Our international student teaching program is quite different from other programs. Our students must receive UMD faculty approval to student teach outside of the area. They must have affordable and safe housing. In Ljubljana we found just that. Irena was hired to supervise our students. UMD also sends a faculty member to visit/assess our students in the field. Outside of airfare, there are no additional costs to the students. UMD tuition and fees are the same, and room and board are usually comparable or less than what they might pay in Duluth. ZARJA THE DAWN I knew our students would enjoy living and teaching in Slovenia, but their comments below show that they have fallen in love with the country. The following are comments from the fall of 2011 UMD student teachers: “Danila Kumar is a wonderful school with wonderful staff members. From day one, I have felt extremely comfortable and welcome at the school. At staff meetings, one of the things the teachers discuss is how to welcome new teachers, and they do a great job at this. There are three buildings and I have been in the PYP (Primary Years Programmed) building. It’s very up-to-date and welcoming. Everyone in the school is always greeting you and helping out however they can. I really enjoy the outside grounds of the school. There is a lot of nature and plenty of room for children to play and explore.” “Irena has been so helpful. She picked us up from the train station and showed us the bus route we would take to school. She took us out to dinner to welcome us to Ljubljana. She also told us about places around Ljubljana to investigate and visit. Irena has been extremely helpful at the school, as well as introducing us to everyone and meeting with us twice a week to make sure everything is going well. The faculty and staff also are very willing to assist us with places to visit.” “I love sLOVEnia! Ljubljana is so beautiful and full of life and excitement. There is a lot to see and do in the City Center. There are many places about one hour from Ljubljana that we plan to visit. These places include a lake, caves, and hiking hills. There is so much nature, surrounding and in the city.” “All the people here are so friendly and helpful whenever you need anything. I have never felt so safe. Each person I have talked with says there is no crime here, and if there is, it is a very rare occurrence. People leave their bikes unlocked and their belongings out in the open.” “The food is delicious! We have found lots of Italian food, such as amazing pizza. They also have traditional Slovenian dishes. There are many types of pastries, which are DELICIOUS! You can pretty much find any kind of food in the City Center, and it’s all great.” “I highly recommend coming to student teach in Slovenia. The culture is so great, and we’ve had an amazing time exploring and visiting the surrounding countries. Anyone should be very excited to come because the experience is absolutely amazing!” AUGUST/SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012 “The weather has been beautiful, but maybe a little too hot. In the mornings, when waiting for the bus, it is very mild and feels great. Then, as the day goes on, the sun comes out and it gets in the 80’s. At night, it also cools off and is very nice. On some clear mornings, you can see the bright, beautiful Alps.” Clearly, these are experiences and impressions that will be with them forever. The returning student teachers are eager to share their teaching experiences at Danila Kumar School, as well as Slovenia’s beauty, and its friendly people. International student teaching in Slovenia continues to be in high demand at the University of Minnesota-Duluth. In a recent Zarja, the book, Home Town Heroes, St. Louis County WWII Project. was mentioned. The book is a compilation of over 4,400 men and women from St. Louis County, Minnesota who served in various branches of the United States armed forces during World War II. This is the heaviest book I have ever held in my hands. I believe I was holding the atrocities of war, the emotions and horrors of the prison camps, and the dreams of those who never returned to their earthly home. There have been many inquires about how to acquire this book. Thanks to Ann Orazem who volunteered her time and energy to hunt down the source! Just goes to show one doesn’t have to leave home to volunteer! Would anyone care to donate a copy of this book to the museum library in Joliet? Please contact me. - Mary Lou Deyak Voelk, ottolou@gulftel.com Book Information: Pages: 368 with photographs Release Date: 2004 Price: $21.32 + S&H: $5 for a total of $26.32 Make checks payable to: St. Louis County Auditor To Order: Northland Office Building County Veteran’s Service Room 110 307 1st St. South Room 110 Virginia, MN 55792 25 The Slovenian Heritage Museum is proud to announce the arrival of books from the personal library of Bogdan Grom of New Jersey. by Mary Lou Deyak Voelk The volumes are being donated in memory of and in honor of Mr. Grom’s grandmother, Ma{a Grom. The books will be housed in a special area in the library, a plaque will be placed in her honor. Mr. Grom is a world-famous Slovenian painter, sculptor, printmaker, book illustrator, designer, author, and educator. His website: www.bogdangrom.com presents a snapshot through decades of his life dedicated to art from the 1930’s to the present day. Ma{a was born to Jacob Dolenc, cafe owner, and Francesca Kariz Dolenc on February 27, 1872, in Sezana, Slovenia. Ma{a completed early public school in Sezana. As a young adult she became a dedicated member of the Cyril and Method Association (CMD)*. She served as secretary of the Sezana branch (CMD) from 1895-1900. In 1898, she married customs administrator, Ante Grom. After their move to Trieste/Trst, Ma{a served the association as secretary and bookkeeper. Eventually, she became the Vice President of CMD in Trieste/Trst under the dynamism of Marija Skrinjar. It was a role she held until 1915. *The Cyril and Method Association was established in 1892, in response to the German - Austrian political system. It was an adamant political machine, denying the rights of the Slovenian people, their culture, and their language. It was announced that German would be the language of army, civic services, universities, and high schools. Elementary schools would be Germanized. Ma{a Grom was a champion in the cause for women and children. In 1898, Ma{a established, launched, and managed the St. Nicolas Home in Trieste/Trst, a project that cared for and supported women working as domestic help. She hired teachers and organized classes for the unemployed, and for women working and striving for better employment. Ma{a also served as secretary and bookkeeper for a number of Slovenian organizations in Trieste/Trst. During World War I, Ma{a retreated to Ljubljana where she became involved in national, educational, and social efforts. She was the co-organizer of the Club of Slovenian Women of Primorksa, and served as a board member and later as the organization’s president. She was a board member of Kolo of Yugoslavian Sisters, the Women’s Association, and the CMD in Ljubljana. Ma{a’s love for the poor and for illegitimate children was legendary. She believed in youth and their need for an education and she supported their academic efforts emotionally and financially. She encouraged many to continue their studies beyond high school. Notable among these is national hero, Mara Husova, from Sezana. 26 Although Ma{a herself did not have the opportunity for higher education, she persistently pursued learning and achieved an admirable high level of self-education. She was fluent in Italian, German, and Serbo-Croatian; she was an avid reader and was familiar with world literature. For her efforts in helping others, and for her public service to the Kingdom of Yugoslavia, King Alexander I awarded The Order of St. Sava 1V Class to Ma{a in 1932. A large celebration was held in Ljubljana, jointly planned by the organizations, many in which she was a leader. There was an outpouring of greetings in recognition of her love, tireless care, and her concern for the well being of others. This event was described in the book, Ma{a Gromova, by author Marija Lamut. Lamut also wrote magazine articles in tribute to Ma{a, such as Obrazi in du{e (Faces and Souls) in @enski svet (Women’s World). Unfortunately, these publications are all in Slovenian. Ma{a Grom was a woman with high moral standards. She was of steel character, yet she was kind and gentle. She displayed unlimited energy and a strong will. She was a rarity; a character laced together with golden threads. She helped in any crisis and assisted all who turned to her without prejudice. Her endeavors emitted bright rays of great love for other human beings. Ma{a Grom was a person actively engaged in community service, in human welfare, and social reforms. Ma{a Grom was a true humanitarian. Many gracious thanks to Bogdan Grom for his input and suggestions, and to Marija (Ria) Whitmire of Branch 93 New York, who translated the Ma{a Grom biography from the Lexicon of Slovenian Primorska Region, Part 6 Grocer, Jofner; published in 1979 by Mohorjeva Druzba in Gorica. The compilation of information was edited, written, and arranged for publication by Mary Lou Deyak Voelk. Photograph: Wikipedia The Order of St. Sava was a decoration instituted by the order King Milan I of Serbia in 1883. The Order of Saint Sava originally was established to recognize civilians for meritorious achievements in the arts and sciences. ZARJA THE DAWN Membership Application Slovenian Union of America (Formerly known as Slovenian Women’s Union of America) slovenianunion.org swuhome@sbcglobal.net 815.727.1926 For RENEWALS use form at BOTTOM of this page Adult Dues $25.00 Adult Dues (International Address) $35.00 Junior Dues (Birth to 18) $5.00 If this is a gift and you agree to continue paying for this membership next year, please advise us of billing address: _________________________________________________________________________________________________ Dues are for January through December If you join after August 31 you will not be billed in January of the next calendar year Invoices are sent annually in January Please print the requested information below and send this application form with a check payable to: Slovenian Union of America, 431 North Chicago Street, Joliet, IL 60432-1703 Last Name________________________________ First Name_______________________ M___ F_____ Street Address_____________________________ City/State/Zip________________________________ Phone____________________________________ E-Mail______________________________________ Date of Birth_________________ Branch Affiliation Number (if known)/Location_______/______________ Maiden Name______________________________ Do you speak Slovenian? _____________________ Please describe your Slovenian ancestry and provide SLOVENIAN SURNAMES ___________________________________________________________________________________ How did you hear about us? SUA Member___ Newspaper___ Website___ Other_____________________ I would like to volunteer for the SUA. My area of interest or expertise is______________________________ Applicant’s Signature__________________________________________ Date______________________ Tell a Friend! If you wish SUA to send information to a friend or relative, please provide us with their name and address: Name _____________________________________________________________________________________________________ Address ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ MEMBERSHIP RENEWAL Name ___________________________________________________ Member ID No.__________________ (located on back cover) Address ______________________________________________________________________________________________________ Phone _________________ E-mail______________________________ Dues Amount______________ Donation_________________ Mail to: SUA/SWUA, 431 N. Chicago Street, Joliet, IL 60432-1703 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012 27 ALICE KUHAR Tribute to Long Time Members Alice Kuhar is one of the unsung members of the Cleveland Slovenian community. Most people know her for her weekly feature, Carousel of Recipes and Traditions, on Tony Petkovsek’s polka radio broadcasts, but few know of the remarkable achievements and extensive volunteer work she has done behind the scenes, anonymously. Alice was born in 1931 and still resides in the East 185th Street neighborhood of Cleveland. The youngest of seven children of Florian and Ana Kuhar, who came from the Kamnik area of Slovenia, she has living sisters, Helen Morel and Ann Sraj, and deceased siblings, Pete, Frank, Fred, and Mary. Alice attended St. Christine’s School in Euclid, and then Collinwood High School, where her English teacher encouraged her to pursue a career in radio. The Cleveland Board of Education radio station, WBOE, used her as a student announcer, and then after graduation hired and trained her as a Radio Technician. After nineteen years, she transferred to the Cleveland Public School’s Superintendent’s Office as the Secretary/Receptionist. She was given the opportunity by the Board to work in educational television on a WKYC TV show, Young World, produced by a fellow Slovene, Ed Potokar. This program showcased young student talent, and a radio offshoot produced by Alice, The World of the Young, originated from the soundtrack of the show and was heard on five different area radio stations. During the 1970s, Alice was appointed for four years, by then Governor John Gilligan, to the Ohio State Educational Television Network in Columbus, Ohio. Because of her involvement in broadcasting, Alice became Chapter Administrator for the National Academy of Arts and Sciences (NATAS), and worked on their local Emmy Awards. Alice’s first visit to Slovenia was in 1968, and over the years, she visited many times, always impressed by the beauty of the country, its people, and her relatives and friends. After she retired from the Cleveland School Board in 1988, Alice devoted her life to all things Slovenian and furthered her activities in numerous Slovene organizations. Since 1969, Alice assisted Tony Petkovsek as a volunteer secretary of the Cleveland Slovenian Radio Club. The Radio Club sponsored the Thanksgiving Polka Festivals in Cleveland, which directly supported Tony’s daily radio programs. She also helped with many fundraiser “radiothons,” which raised more than $200,000 over several 28 years, helping to establish the Slovene Home for the Aged in Cleveland, and supporting the beginnings of an independent Slovenia in the early 1990s. The National Cleveland Style Polka Hall of Fame counts her as one of its 1987 founders and since that time she has served in many capacities, including as a Trustee. Until she retired in 2012, Alice served continuously as the Corresponding Secretary, and also as Membership Chairperson, a position requiring much time and responsibility, as there are nearly 1,500 members. The Hall of Fame honored Alice by electing her to their Trustee’s Honor Roll. Many Slovenian organizations count Alice as a member, including SNPJ Lodge Mirni Raj 142, Our Lady of Fatima KSKJ, and SUA Branch 14 (now merged with Branch 50), where she served as their Zarja reporter for many years. Alice was the first Recording Secretary of the United Slovenian Society and the U.S.S. Band. The recipes which Alice had presented on Tony Petkovsek’s radio program, over a period of forty years, have proved so popular, that the Polka Hall of Fame is in the process of compiling a book of them. Alice was recently honored as the Slovenian Woman of the Year 2012 by the Federation of Slovenian National Homes of Cleveland. She is truly a remarkable member of the SUA. ZARJA THE DAWN Why a Centennial Celebration? Reclaiming Our Slovene Heritage Older Members are Sharing Pictures and Memories with Younger Members Our family is in the process of reclaiming our Slovene heritage. The older members are sharing pictures and memories with younger members. As part of our Centennial Celebration, we have been researching Slovene culture and history. Some of us have an interest in the Slovenian language, especially learning phrases, etc., and visiting Slovenia. Mass. The public schools asked that only English be spoken at home. The houses were “row homes” - small, close together, and with little greenery. The Slovene community was close to the Delaware River commercial port. Merchant marine workers from Slovenia were not uncommon in the area. Our grandparents, and other families, had several Slovene boarders at a time. SNPJ Lodge #284 was an active contact point for socialization and community support. The arrival of our grandparents in America was a lifechanging event for our In our younger years, we had family. Our Hoboken pier location where the ship arrived from Bremen, Germany: Five of the Kozole grandchildren who wanted to be exposure to Slovene music, grandparent’s marriage “at the place” - on the actual date of arrival. dancing, food, and people. has blossomed into a th However, we are now spread many miles apart and no family with over 50 direct descendants. The 100 anniversary provided a meaningful, point-in-time to bring longer live near active Slovene communities. So, we have our family together. We wanted to honor, celebrate, and been identifying Slovene communities like SUA to connect appreciate our grandparent’s contributions to our lives. with. Also, we wanted to share memories and heritage with our own children and grandchildren. Jo`ef Kozole, our grandfather, was a custom tailor who opened his shop in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (Port Richmond section). Our grandmother, Marija, worked in the shop doing repairs, hemming, pressing, etc., from 1912 through 1924. They had six children. The Slovene population in Philadelphia was not large, but was somewhat clustered. Their neighborhood was mixed with Polish, Italian, and Croatian immigrants. There were no Slovene parishes, so attendance was at Polish or English Tribute to Long Time Members Note: Please notify me if you would like to suggest a SUA/SWUA member to be profiled in this feature. Remember - they must have been active for many years, and are probably in their 80s. My e-mail is pbudzilek@oh.rr.com. AUGUST/SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012 Historic (1907) Hoboken train station where immigrants continued their trip via rail or ferry. In total, we had 24 folks over the weekend celebration with thousands of miles traveled. Some folks could only come for a day or two; children had to be back for school by Monday. There was a group dinner Sunday night, but the venue didn’t lend itself to taking group pictures. - Kathy Clime 29 Branch Reports Poro~~ila Podru``nic BRANCH 1 - Sheboygan, Wisconsin In April, we Tom Gruenke made history by naming Tom Gruenke our Member of the Year. Tom is the first man of our Branch to be honored! Congratulations, Tom, you deserve it! Members of our Branch enjoyed a wonderful dinner with Tom and his family at the Knights of Columbus Hall in Sheboygan. Entertainment was provided by a great group of hearing-impaired children who sang and danced to music. A beautiful program! In May, Father Richard Cerpich celebrated his 50th Anniversary as a priest. Over 500 guests attended the gala, and thanks to several of our Branch 1 members, homemade potica was served. Congratulations, Father Cerpich, for your lengthy and loyal service to the church! Hope to see everyone at all our events and until next time - Na Svidenje! CHERYL LOPOUR BRANCH 2 - Chicago, Illinois God Bless America; as of July 4, 2012 she is 236 years old. Records were broken across the county with high temperatures during spring and summer. At our May meeting, Father Gartland celebrated Mass for Branch 2. This will be the last Mass at St. Stephens. Gen Buol led us in several beautiful Slovenian songs. Father Gartland always enjoys it when the ladies are singing hymns. Father Jim is leaving for Boston, where he will be in charge of seminarians. He told us that the new priest had instructions to take care of the Slovenian ladies of Branch 2. Our June Meeting was a picnic with a Flag Day theme of red, white and blue. 30 Sorry to report that we lost another member. Irma Pasdertz passed on and we send our condolences to her husband, Louie, daughter Patsy, and the rest of her family. Irma was always active in the affairs of Branch 2. Please remember her in your prayers. Zveza picnic was July 15th; we had fine Slovenian food and Vince Rigler provided great music. Thanks to everyone who attended and those who volunteered and provided food. Dates to remember: September 16th and October 21st at Christa Rey’s dining room. November 18th we will have a Penny Social at Christa Rey High School. Keep our troops and their safe return in your prayers. Enjoy the fall colors. DAISY BRANCH 3 - Pueblo, Colorado Contact Information: 719.696.8583 amtcharron@yahoo.com The April meeting was held in St. Mary’s Church hall, and Angela Mock was the hostess. Angela served delicious chocolate cookies along with tasty lemon cookies that her sister, Barbara Greenwood, made. Vice President Eileen Kaplan discussed Easter in Slovenia and the technique for making Slovenian Easter eggs. Eileen made some sample eggs for the members to see. This folk art may date back to the 17th century. Each area in Slovenia has its own style for Easter egg dyeing. In lieu of a May business meeting, Branch 3 hosted a luncheon on May 1st to celebrate Mother’s Day and to honor our SUA Member of the year, Madeline Khosla. Madeline was very lucky on this day because she won the main door prize and the game, which involved fitting names of flowers into a description of a wedding. Since all attendees brought hostess gifts, members left with prizes such as lotion, candles, and gift certificates. The most popular surprise gifts are always anything made in Slovenia. Displays at the Slovenian/Croatian Heritage Celebration at Pueblo Community College ZARJA THE DAWN the many Slovenian clubs here. They are greatly missed by their family and friends. Mark your calendars for our annual “Koffee and Krofi” meeting after our memorial mass on October 21 st , immediately following the 10:00 a.m. Sunday Mass at Holy Trinity. It will be held at the Slovenian National Home. We hope you can join us! Please keep our sick and elderly members, along with their families and caregivers, in your prayers! Wishing all a safe and healthy summer! KAREN, MARY & PHYLLIS The Okalitza Tamburitzans performing at Pueblo Community College Branch 3 was involved in the Slovenian/Croatian Heritage celebration at Pueblo Community College (PCC). Branch members, Annette Charron and Barbara Karlinger, served on the planning committee for the event along with members of PCC’s Diversity Committee. The celebration included displays from the Slovenian Heritage Museum and performances by the Preseren Glee Club and the Okalitza Tamuritzans, who provided music and dances from various Baltic regions. PCC served kolbase, potica, and pohanje to students and individuals from the community. Rocky Mountain Potica gave demonstrations on making potica and provided delicious samples. PCC staff and students led the arts and crafts activities, which included decorating honey bread cutouts. The event was a tremendous success and plans are underway to add to next year’s heritage celebration. ANNETTE SABO CHARRON & BARBARA KARLINGER BRANCH 5 - Indianapolis, Indiana Contact: Phyllis Fon: phyllisswu5@aol.com Greetings Branch 5 members! A small, but very enjoyable group of members, met for our Member of the Year luncheon honoring Betsy Fon Walker. Thanks to all those who attended on what was a very busy weekend, especially Helen Zupancic Smith who traveled all the way from Morgantown, IN! Her snicker doodles and bowl of blackberries, including Sara Cline’s chocolate éclair dessert, made for a great ending to our lunch! Long time Secretary of Branch 5, Dolores Konechnik, passed away right before Mother’s Day. She was a wonderful secretary, keeping meticulous notes about each meeting in spiral notebooks that she always carried in her huge purses! Dolores seldom missed a meeting, even though she did not drive. Her cranberry Jell-O was always a welcome addition to our luncheons, along with a plate of sliced sausage made by her husband, Louie, who passed away a few years ago. Dolores and Louie were always strong supporters of Holy Trinity Slovenian Church, and AUGUST/SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012 BRANCH 16 - South Chicago, Illinois Contact: Marjorie Mitchell: 773.646.4392 Dolores60617@yahoo.com In March, the Duquesne University Tamburitzans performed at their annual show. This traveling group entertained us at the Munster High School in Munster, IN, with dancing and singing many Eastern European songs – Slovenian included. It was an afternoon well spent. Eleven members, plus two guests, attended our May meeting, which was held at Small World Restaurant on the Calumet River. It was our treat to all in honor of Mother’s Day. Only a few attended due to school graduations and other commitments. On Sunday, May 20th, the traditional devotion to Our Lady of Brezje was held at St. George Church in conjunction with KSKJ St. Florian Lodge 44. The picture of Maria Pomagaj was displayed and adorned with red carnations. Many thanks to all who continue this tradition. We have been informed that three members have died – Mary Brozovich, Lena Amicarelli, and Vicky Krcmaric. May they rest in peace. Vicky may be remembered as Betty Krcmaric’s sister-in-law and an active member for five years. She once worked at Helen’s House of Fashion in Hegewisch. Get-well prayers and wishes continue to be sent to Rose Tomasich. Note – I recently had the opportunity to enjoy a good book. I’m a mystery fan and was surprised to hear that Pascal Marco, the son of our good member, Gen Marco, is a published author. Needless to say, the book is entertaining, using late ‘70’s Chicago as its locale. Look 31 for it – “Identity: Lost” by Pascal Marco. I gave it four stars (****)! Reminder – Bob Kuhel will entertain us with a slide presentation on Slovenian Carnolian bees at our September 8th meeting. This presentation should prove to be very interesting and something to look forward to. At a recent Bowen High School reunion Bob met up with his former English teacher, Jacqueline Kompare Soltysinski. He mentioned his upcoming presentation and extended an invitation to her to join her fellow Slovenians for this event. New Member – A junior membership application was received for Ryne Robert Behrman. Welcome!! DOLORES KRAL FRANKO BRANCH 20 - Joliet, Illinois Contact Information: patricia.schager@att.net Our new year begins with one of the most important and fun events that takes place each September – the annual Grape Harvest Fest. Our Branch has been welcoming members and guests for 31 years. Please read this issue for more information on this exciting and family- oriented event. Another time-honored tradition, and close to the hearts of every Slovenian in and around Joliet, are the summer picnics and baseball fields at St. Joseph Park. Recently, the family of past Branch 20 member, Father George Klepec, was presented with a plaque and sign naming a field in his honor. Father George died in March. He was a local boy who never lost his love for the area. He attended St. Joseph grade school and Joliet Catholic High School and became pastor at St. Joseph Church in Joliet. Member Barbara DeLaney became a “Dancing With Our Local Stars” contestant. Barbara took part in a dance contest, like the TV show. The event was a fundraiser for a local service group dedicated to helping families and children. Barbara says her show biz experience was a lot of hard work, but fun. Members, Jo Lustik and husband Wally, welcomed cousins, Joan and Richard Jacobs, of Grafton, WI, for their first-time visit to the Heritage Museum in Joliet. It was also a first-time meeting for the cousins. Keeping the heritage alive, Joan is a SUA member of Branch 43 in Milwaukee. Branch 20 member, Jonita Ruth, coordinated the meeting. Monthly meetings begin in September. We always have a guest speaker, lots of homemade goodies, and lots and lots of information for the membership. Plans are discussed for upcoming events, and we always have door prizes for those in attendance. It’s a good night out and the business part of the night is aptly kept “to the point” by president Char Kobe. Bless her! It is with sadness to report on the passing of member Gloria Goebel. She will be remembered in our prayers. PATRICIA SCHAGER 32 BRANCH 24 - LaSalle, Illinois Contact Information: 815.223.9596 wprokup@aol.com In April, we met at the home of Debbie Pohar. Everyone was asked to bring perennial plants for a “Plant Swap”. Debbie had it very organized. I am sure everyone’s yard/ gardens have expanded from this. In May, members met at the Maples for our Mother’s Day luncheon. In June, we celebrated with our end-of-the-year picnic at Pulaski Park, located next to St. Roch’s Church, which was closed down in the late 70’s. We had a nice turnout, including our friends from Branch 89 - Oglesby, which is across the river. Every guest was asked to bring a Slovenian dish to pass. As you can imagine, the meal was outstanding! BRANCH 35 - Aurora, Minnesota Contact Information: 218.229.3202 anitam1@frontier.com On April 22nd, for the first time in many months, the ballroom doors were open to the Slovenian National Home in Chisholm for the overwhelming, powerful, musical concert presentation of dynamic song and nostalgic music by the internationally known TRUBADORI of Slovenia. As the crowd gathered to meet and welcome Mr. Marjan Zgonc and Mr. Toma` Vrhovnik, both from Slovenia’s Slovenian Trubadors Left to Right: Marjan Zgonc and Toma``Vrhovnik capital city of Ljubljana, the audience became thrilled with anticipation. This was no ordinary event, this being their first U.S.A. destination while on concert tour of the U.S.A. and Canada. Two renowned tenors were in America and in a town that honored and welcomed the early Slovenian settlers. The two tenors in duet, both soloists in their own right, were thrilled to present a powerful program of Slovenian folk and pop selections with a bit of operatic. In their musical careers they have concertized throughout various European countries and Canada. Mr. Zgonc has also ZARJA THE DAWN Left to Right: Radio Personality and Emcee, Violet Ruparcich of Pittsburg, PA, Toma`` Vrhovnik, Anita Vovk, and Marjan Zgonc, at concert sight performed in Australia. Mr. Vrhovnik began singing at the age of seven and urged his father to buy him a synthesizer. Singing came naturally for him, giving he came from a musical family - father, mother, and uncle. His formal study followed. The synthesizer then enabled him to be a “One Man Band.” Rosemary Ribich and Mr. John Postudensek (100 years old) of Mountain Iron, MN: Old friends, reminiscing at the concert, John even danced a bit. Mr. Zgonc began his career a bit later in life, with numerous appearances on Slovenian television. Eventually this led to recordings and he now boasts of at least a half dozen CD’s. Together with Vrhovnik, the latest CD recording in duet-styling was just released prior to this current tour. The superb blend of their voices captured an audience beyond belief and the scheduled two-hour performance extended into three hours. No one moved as the two harmonious voices continued the interpretation of each selection. Generally speaking, all Slovenian folk and pop songs, through their lyrics, tell a story. The vocalists reflected the feeling and the meaning of each selection with emotion AUGUST/SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012 and pride. The audience, overwhelmed and grateful, responded with heart-warming applause and further accolades as the unforgettable program was about to conclude. Footnote: Mr. Terry Rupar of Chisholm and Anita Vovk of Aurora were responsible for advertising and ticket sales. Mr. And Mrs. Terry Rupar hosted a dinner at their home after the concert for the artists and guests. Violet Ruparcich’s Slovenian Radio Program is on the Internet: vruparcich.WEDO810.com. VEDA PONIKVAR, VIOLET RUPARICH & ANITA VOVK BRANCH 40 - Lorain, Ohio Contact Information: step@windstream.net It grieves me deeply to even report on all that has befallen on our small group in the last few months. First, Angeline “Babe” Grayson is still recovering from a fall in which she sustained a broken leg, and is now in assisted living at Anchor Lodge. Then, Agnes Serazin, our president, suffered a massive stroke. Aggie is now in Amherst Manor undergoing intensive therapy. Recently, Mary Gradisek, fell and sustained a broken hip and other injuries. She is at Mercy Hospital. Our love and our prayers go out to Babe, Aggie, and Mary at this most difficult time. On April 28th, Amelia “Molly” Glavan died. Molly was born in Begunje, Slovenia, and in 1921, at the age of three, arrived in Lorain. At age 94, she was our oldest member. She was active in all things Slovenian, and enjoyed gardening, fishing, and playing cards until illness confined her to a nursing home for the last several years. To her son, Joseph Glavan, his family, her brother, Robert Skapin, and her sister, Danielle Jere, we extend our heartfelt sympathy. Members prayed at her wake. May she rest in peace! Our luncheon this month was at Moss’s in Elyria; a place recently featured on the TV program where they work on restaurants needing up-grades. Nice job! But, mostly we just enjoyed getting together. Congratulations to my daughter, Elaine Barthelemy, a member of Branch 109, on her retirement after 45 years of teaching. She had a very rewarding career, which she loved dearly. During that time she taught five years at the International School in Hong Kong, and since her return to Minnesota, she has been teaching gifted children. She has recently been given an Outstanding Service Award from Independent School District 196, consisting of Rosemount, Apple Valley, and Egan Public schools. Our best to you, Elaine, on your well-earned retirement. Again, remember our luncheons are on the 2nd Wednesday of each month. If you are in the need of a ride, just call me – 440.324.2024. I’ll be happy to pick you up and deliver you back home, and I can promise you a fun time. STEPHANIE POLUTNIK 33 BRANCH 43 - Milwaukee, Wisconsin Contact Information: Jan Gehm 414.321.1413 twogames@wi.rr.com The topic of conversation these past few weeks is the weather, yet there is nothing we can do about it. We are all, especially in the Midwest, in the midst of a severe drought and lots of heat. I missed our June meeting, but understand it was a good one. Our special guest was Mr. Yul Yost from Branch 109 in Minnesota. His talk on Bishop Baraga and other Slovenian-related topics was well received. Mr. Yost Left to Right: Jan Gehm (Branch President), Fannie Smole, and Denise P. Bartlett Yul Yost and one of his exhibits donated a beautiful, beech wood chair to our Branch, stamped “Made in Slovenia”, that had been exhibited at the Festival of Nations, held in St. Paul, Minnesota. He is also trying to locate the artist of an oil painting of Lake Bled that he has had in his possession since 1992. It came from Milwaukee and he is also very much interested in learning about the original owner and its history. Many thanks to all who helped prepare the meal and served it before this meeting. 34 May 12, 2012, was a big day for Fannie Smole as her family and friends assembled to pay tribute to her as Branch 43’s Member of the Year. The meal was delicious and episodes in her life, as related by her children and grandchildren, proved to be very interesting. Congratulations and Best Wishes, Fannie! Mark your calendar for November 6, 2012. That’s Election Day and our branch will have a bake sale at the South 88th St. School. Since a large turnout of voters is expected, we will need LOTS of bakery and LOTS of help at the school. Please volunteer your help and your baking talents. Our next regularly scheduled meeting is on Wednesday, September 26th, at the West Allis Library at noon. As usual, a delicious lunch will be served prior to the meeting and a special program is being planned. Enjoy and have a safe remaining summer. MICI BREGANT BRANCH 47 – Garfield Heights, Ohio Contact Information: Olga Dorchak 330.468.7989 webblekatt@hotmail.com Hi everyone! And a very happy, belated Mother’s Day and Father’s Day to everyone. May all your days be blessed. Eleven members and guests attended our Member of the Year Celebration. We met at Dino’s restaurant in Solon and had a very good time. Get Well wishes go out to Olga Dorchak, Vice President, and to Dorothy Cabot. They are both recovering from surgery. We hope you ladies get well soon. We miss you both. Branch 47 is sending condolences to the family of our former Recording Secretary-Treasurer, Elsie Spellacy. She passed away April 18th. She will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her. Our next meeting will be in September. KATHERINE WALLACE ZARJA THE DAWN BRANCH 50 - Euclid, Ohio Contact Information: 440.655.6735….ricktomsick@gmail.com GREETINGS FROM THE “FIVE-O” on America’s North Coast! As I write this report from high atop the Terminal Tower, Cleveland is seeing the grand opening of the Horseshoe Casino; the very first casino in Ohio, in the historic Higbee building downtown. On May 1st, Branch 50 hosted its annual Mother’s dinner, and there were many in attendance, including our member, Joey Tomsick, who entertained the dinner guests on his button box accordion. Joe was recently named CEO of the Lake County (Ohio) Council on Aging, continuing on an exemplary career path in which his respect for, and hard work on behalf of, our elder population has been a primary focus. hard-working and talented youth who promise to carry on the important cultural traditions of our heritage. It is wonderful to welcome new members to Branch 50, including Joan Cabel, Josephine Markatos, Barbara Meadows, and Mary Ann Hozjan. I am sad to report on the recent death of our members, Frances (Urankar) Vidmar, Angie Znidarsic, Mary Sirna, Frances Ogoreuc (age 88), Emilee Jenko (age 86), and Angie Shine (age 94, and a member for 51 years). Angie was a friend to so many and will be dearly missed. Emilee’s lifelong contributions to SUA and the Slovenian community were highlighted recently in an article in the March-April 2012 Zarja. Emily was a prolific and selfless writer. She had a column in several local Slovenian papers for many years, maintaining a friendly and lively compilation of Slovenian activities, birthdays, anniversaries, get well wishes, condolences, and invitations to the activities she chronicled. Many thanks go out to Pat Budzilek for her fine authorship of Emilee’s tribute article, which appeared, miraculously, just prior to Emilee’s passing. Plans are already in the works for our Christmas party. I am especially grateful to our recording secretary, Jo Wutchiett, who maintains our minutes with clarity. Please email me at ricktomsick@gmail.com with any news, updates, accolades, upcoming events, and the like, but keep in mind that we have about a two-month publication lag in reporting upcoming events. RICK TOMSICK BRANCH 55 - Girard, Ohio Hello from Girard! In Branch news, member Anka Krakora, retired this past spring after 34 years of teaching in the Girard School System. She touched the lives of many in the community and will certainly be missed in the schools. Congratulations on your retirement, Anka! If members have information they would like to share in future articles, please contact Maria Selak. That’s all the news for now. In closing, a haiku by author Reihaisha: “Summer fades to fall pulling up the blanket to ward off night’s chill.” MONICA SELAK Zarja’s Unforgettable Journey Congratulations to our young member, Kyle Lorek, upon receiving the 2012 Frances Barman Award of $1,000 from the SWU Scholarship Foundation. Kyle is a student at the University of Akron and is a 4th generation legacy in SUA (joining his mother, Carol Lorek, grandmother Mitzi Globokar, and great-grandmother, a founding member of SWUA, Frances Globokar). We are very proud of our AUGUST/SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012 Travel through Slovenia October 19-29, 2012 Sponsored by Zarja - The Dawn See the SUA website for details: http://slovenianunion.org or call 1.800.800.5981 35 BRANCH 89 - Oglesby, Illinois Contact Information: 815.883.3268 deadendbluff@yahoo.com Branch 89’s Closing Dinner was held Sunday, April 29th, at Pete’s Paramount in LaSalle, IL. All enjoyed a delicious buffet meal. We also met on June 12th at Holy Family Church, Oglesby, for Mass for the living and deceased members of Branch 89. Breakfast was held at Delaney’s Family Restaurant. We look forward to some enjoyable events this summer, perhaps a road trip to Triglav Park for one of their famous “chicken roasted over an open wood fire /polka band specials”, or a food event at Lemont. Our own Oglesby Summer Fest featured a Patriotic Program June 30th, followed by a Polka Mass. On July 1st, we listened to Polka music by Lenny Zielinski and the D-Street Band. JIM EBNER BRANCH 93 - New York, New York Contact Information: 718.335.8459 lgross@tstnyc.org Branch members kicked up their heels in May at a dance party at the Ukrainian East Village Restaurant with the Cleveland-based Tran Carpathian band Harmonia, with instruction by recently deceased dance master Roman Lewkowicz. It was a chance for all of us to honor Lynn Zalokar (who cuts a pretty mean rug herself!) for revitalizing the branch and her ten years of leadership. And other opportunities of a Slovenian flavor for our members - a program at The Center for Architecture, entitled Small and SMART, presented by the Museum of Architecture and Design (MAO, Ljubljana), explored six recent Slovenian architectural projects, each presented by a film and short lectures by Dr. Petra Ceferin and Vaso Perovi~, reflecting current developments and practices by Slovenia’s best younger architects. Music lovers had a chance to hear the European Union Youth Orchestra at Carnegie Hall. Slovenian members of the orchestra are Irena Rovtar (flute), Klemen Glas (French horn), and Jo`e Ro{er (also French horn). Thousands of young musicians compete to play in this orchestra, which is made up from all 27 EU countries. They also performed in Chapel Hill, NC, Boston, MA, Bloomington, IN, Evanston, IL, and Washington, D.C. where I hope more of you had a chance the enjoy their talents. It premiered in New York, but be on the lookout for it hopefully it will be shown in a local film festival - Vlado [kafar’s O^A (Dad). It tells the story of a father and son who meet again and spend an afternoon together after a long time living apart. Viewers reported that issues were handled with sensitivity and understanding, and were sorry that with only one showing here, not more people would be seeing a very good film. Before going on to the embassy in Washington, members had a chance to view the sculptures of Lu~ka Ko{~ak at 36 St. Cyril’s Gallery. The show, entitled ANGELS, featured small figures in terra cotta, bronze, colored clay, which radiated an incredible sense of calmness and peace. Her works are in many private collections and public places across Europe. After watching her on You Tube, it was a special treat to meet her in person! ELIZABETH GROSS BRANCH 99 - Lemont, Illinois Contact Information: jmhlade@hotmail.com Our branch has had lots of activities. Included is a photo from the butara class that was held at the end of March. The kids and adults had fun learning how to make these spring greenery bundles to bring to church on Palm Sunday. Also included is a photo from the Member Celebration in May. We had a lot of fun with Slovenian foods, Slovenian bingo, and the hat game. Congratulations to Sarah Hlade on her school presentation about Slovenia. She completed a research paper, a collage, decorated a paper doll in the National costume, shared potica with her classmates, and presented an eight-minute speech about the country. She received a perfect score on all the projects. Great job! ZARJA THE DAWN In May, VicePresident Paula Mavec was invited to demonstrate apple strudel-making at the Slovenian Embassy in Washington, D.C. as part of EU Embassies’ Open House Day. This annual event offers a rare opportunity for the public to experience the international culture of embassies of the European Union. Paula, along with her two sisters, Rosie Anttila and Nadi Bajda, explained how to prepare strudel and offered samples to the visitors. They were also invited for coffee Sarah Hlade with the Slovenian Ambassador, Roman Kirn, and his wife, Jovana. Paula and her sisters were invited to come back next year for the same event. BRANCH 100 - Southern California Contact Information: ajkoci@cox.net Branch 100 members and friends enjoyed a Saturday luncheon on April 28th, honoring our 2012 Member of the Year, Jean Turnbull. The banquet room at Napoli’s Italian Restaurant, once more, was the comfortable setting for our gathering where we enjoyed the company of each other, and many of the nice menu choices offered to us. Mary Lou Jensen conducted a short meeting and we were able to welcome a new member, John Govednik, and his wife, Patty. She also announced another new member, Anne Yakos, who transferred from Wisconsin. Anne was not able to attend this time, but looks forward to meeting with us soon. John’s daughter, Valerie, is a new junior member and two Lomshek girls have been enrolled recently as new junior members. It is so nice to have these young families joining our Branch and we welcome them warmly. Cards were signed and sent to several members/friends who were not able to be with us for this event - Pauline Buzan, Martha Nagy, Pat Vidergar, Virginia Zajc Johnson, and Kay Nowjack. We wish them well and miss their presence very much. Her sister, Linda Costell, read Jean Turnbull’s life story. Jean had an interesting life with Slovenian roots in Ohio and many years of nursing experience and devotion to her profession in San Bernardino County, California. She hopes to visit Slovenia again soon and get reacquainted with her family there. We enjoyed hearing Jean speak of her life and her hopes for the future. Congratulations, Jean Turnbull, from your SUA family! We wish our members and friends a wonderful summer of exploration and relaxation. May your gardens grow beautiful flowers and tasty vegetables, and most of all, may your families be close to one another with love and thoughtfulness. Na svidenje! JEAN KOCI Also in May, the Prime Minister of Slovenia, Janez Jan{a, was in Chicago for the NATO summit and spoke at the Slovenian Catholic Center in Lemont. In June, we held our meeting at 3 Corners Grill and Tap, and discussed several topics, including the National Convention for 2015. JANA HLADE Jean Turnbull, Linda Costell, and Mary Lou Jensen AUGUST/SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012 37 BRANCH 102 - Willard, Wisconsin Contact: kleespires@comcast.net Karen Hribar-Spires, Branch Reporter tombrierton@gmail.com Bonnie Brierton, Branch President Greetings from Willard! It has been a very quiet time for our branch since we met here in the Zarja last. We have been fortunate to celebrate with our young people. Michael Brierton celebrated his First Holy Communion at St. Francis Xavier Church in Knowlton, WI in May. Erik Spires graduated from Chippewa Valley Technical College also in May. Summer birthday greetings are sent to branch members, Dorothy Petkovsek, MaryAnne Friedman, Dorothy Gregorich, Charlene Broda, George Plautz, Sophie Staut, Ann Boh, Gigi Plautz, and Pat Sixel. Welcome to new member Barbara Ziegenweide. Many of Branch 102’s members do not live near the Willard area, so Barbara, we are hoping you will drive over and get to know us. We are very sad to announce (especially to our Wisconsin branches) the passing of our Vice President Agnes “Aggie” Debevec on March 29, 2012. Aggie had been Branch 102 Vice President for many years. She was always an eager volunteer for any activity that supported the Slovenian community at Willard and Holy Family Agnes E. Debevec Church. She will be dearly missed by January 11, 1929 all of us Until next time.... March 29, 2012 KAREN HRIBAR-SPIRES BRANCH 103 - Washington, D.C. Following a long-standing tradition, the Branch prepared candy-filled plastic eggs for distribution to children attending the Easter food blessing held on Holy Saturday 38 at the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception. Gift baskets were also prepared for the priests, Fr. Ray Wadas and Fr. Peter Rozic, who minister to the Washington Slovenian community. Prayers are invited for recently departed, long-standing Branch members, Mara Chokel and Alenka Richardson. Kevin Mangold, Branch member and grandson of Treasurer Mary Mejac, who works at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), attended an international working group meeting held in Phuket, Thailand. He had previously visited Sweden and Japan as a NIST international liaison. On the agenda are future trips to France, Germany and England. Kevin was the recipient of an SWU scholarship. His brother, Tony, is now pursuing studies in marine biology, and sister, Christine, will begin studies toward a veterinary degree this Fall. All are Branch members. BRANCH 108 - Olney, Maryland Contact Information: Bettekfitz@verizon.net Branch 108 met in spring for a potica-making demonstration, led by our native Slovenian members, Tereza Bevec and Nika Kovacic. We had a fun afternoon of exchanging views about various methods of preparing potica handed down through the generations. The demonstration was an interesting experience for the experienced, as well as the inexperienced, bakers of potica. Each person took home a generous sample, and savored the wonderful scent of fresh home-baked potica. Anne Stratton busily took notes on what she learned, and has reported her making of potica a few weeks ago for her family. In addition, we dyed Easter eggs (pisanice) and used the traditional methods of wrapping and tying the eggs in nylons with nature’s herbs, clovers, and grasses, and then boiled them with onionskins. All who were able to make the time to join us for this activity, which included sharing culinary specialties of sauerkraut, sausage, bread, salad, fruit, and wine, had a good time. Many of us in Maryland and vicinity were without power for several days during the July heat wave and violent storm, known as a “derecho”, that swept across the area. We hope everyone in the Midwestern states and our local members and friends have recovered from a record- ZARJA THE DAWN breaking, hot summer, and look forward to the fall days ahead. Our next meeting will be held in September, so keep an eye out for an e-mail from SUA with details. BERNADETTE K. FITZSIMMONS BRANCH 109 - Twin Cities of Minnesota What did the members of Branch 109 - Twin Cities Slovenians do during the hot summer months: lipanj (June), srpanj (July), and kolovos (August)? *Tom Moren painted an outside mural, hung on Yul Yost’s home. See the enclosed picture. The mural depicts the settling of Minnesota and the evolution of agriculture. One of the panels depicts Father Pirc, a Slovenian missionary, who settled in central Minnesota, which led to St. Stephen’s, the first Slovenian community in Minnesota and some would say first in the United States. *Tom Moren also painted and framed “Lake Bled” in beautiful blues and greens. It will be for sale, soon. *Jenny Meyer attended the Perko family reunion held in Biwabik, MN, on the Mesabi Iron Range. Jenny gave each family a genealogy memory book. Well done, Jenny. * John Zakelj, president of Branch 109, hosted a welcoming dinner for Joe Valencic and Dr. Mirjam Hladnik. On July 15th, the two made a presentation at the Roseville Library entitled “A Salute to Slovenian America.” Their presentation of “The Legacy of Slovenian Women Migrants in the U.S.” should be a permanent piece in every Slovenian community. *Rick Pisa and his mother toured Slovenia. Rick also designed our Slovenian calendars, which feature photos taken by our members who recently visited Slovenia. AUGUST/SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012 *Norm Setnicker, Jim Smrekar, Kathy Smrekar, and Jim Kotchevar and his wife, Ethel, attended the Slovenian film festival “A Salute to Slovenian America” held in Ely. Thank you, Mary Lou Voelk, along with Branch 23 and the Ely Historical Society for organizing this excellent event, the Slovenian buffet and the music were excellent and Joe Valencic and Mirjam Hladnik were super! *The Medved’s and Bajda’s had a big family reunion in Slovenia in July. It was coordinated along with Paula Bajda Mavec’s climb of Triglav. *Sue and Dave Rademacher provided a new storage area for all the Festival of Nations sets, along with boxes of documents and records, for the past five years. Norm has a clean garage again. *John Zakelj and the TC Slovenian Board began to outline plans for Branch 109’s monthly meetings starting in September. Jamie Monson, our recording secretary, has worked diligently to provide direction for our upcoming programs. *Yul Yost hosted a garden tour in June for some of our members. Yul certainly has a “green thumb.” *Yul laid out the schedule for the Baraga Day at the Cross planned for September 15th near Schroeder, MN. There will be four speakers: a priest from the local parish of Grand Marais; a second speaker to address Baraga’s Slovenian connection; a representative of Bishop Baraga Association from Marquette; and a speaker who will address Bishop Baraga’s efforts to help and minister to the Natives. *Yul Yost and Jean Smith traveled to Milwaukee for Branch 43’s June dinner meeting where Yul presented a variety of Slovenian topics from identifying a Lake Bled painting, discussing the life of Bishop Baraga, and showing some Slovenian trivia from his garden showings. Thank you to Branch President, Jan Gehm, and Branch 43 for hosting the visit. I know that Yul was really interested in Triglav Park in Wind Lake, WI. *Jim Kotchevar and his wife, Ethel, celebrated 50 years of marriage this past August, in Jim’s hometown of Ely. *Don Palkovich was busy moving into his new town home in Woodbury, MN. Don, who hails from Eveleth, Minnesota, lost his wife, Marlene, a year ago. *Mary Ann Palmer, a past “member of the year,” recording secretary, and our Slovenian music presenter, underwent back surgery this summer. We wish her a full recovery. 39 *Miro Medved celebrated his 70th birthday with a surprise party hosted by his wife, Karen, and their children. I don’t recall being in one house with as much musical talent on display. NORMAN SETNICKER BRANCH 33 – Duluth, Minnesota Contact Information: 218.626.1305 Beverly Ann (Bielen) Menart went to meet out Maker on July 4, 2012. She died peacefully in the hospital with family near her. Beverly was our Branch president for many years. She did much for our Branch and worked very hard for us. We truly appreciated all that she did for us and we hope that she can see our grateful hearts from where she is now. The funeral Mass was beautiful. Honorary pallbearers were Shirley Hoppenyan, Jackie Rukavina, Sharon Bucar, Winifred Ellena, Mary Spehar White, and Ann Menart. Before leaving our sister and the closing of Mass, a prayer was prayed by a member of our Branch. A white carnation was presented to her husband, Anthony, as a tribute to Beverly’s life. We will miss her. On a more joyful note, Pauline Stojevich was blessed with her first great-grandchild; a boy born in the month of July. Congratulations, Polly! In both these events, God gives His blessings; comfort and peace for the one family, and a great and holy future for the new life. May God be with us all in all areas of our lives. ANN MENART SLOVENIAN CHRISTMAS TREE CONTEST 2012 We want to see your Slovenian Christmas tree. When we say Slovenian Christmas tree, that can mean anything. It could be a tree loaded with red carnations, crystal ornaments from Rogaska, pictures of your Slovenian ancestors, wooden collectables from Ribnica, and so much more. Use your imagination and creativity! Include your family and perhaps it will become a family heirloom. Winners will be featured in the November/ December 2012 issue of Zarja. Please send your picture and in 100 words or less, describe your tree. For further information email wprokup@aol.com. Deadline: September 15, 2012 40 A Slovenska Miza, in honor of Statehood Day! Seattle, Woodland Park Saturday, June 23, 2012 It was a few months ago that an article appeared in the Embassy newsletter about the Slovenian Miza being held in Seattle in June. As Gene and I were traveling to Seattle for our granddaughter Maya’s graduation, I inquired about our families attending. June 23 was a typical overcast day in Seattle, and then the rains came. But spirits were not to be dampened. A multitude of generations were under cover at the picnic area at Woodland Park. The Slovenska Miza was set with delicious Slovenian foods. Kids went wild over the cevapcici and potica. And then I met Judy Tabak, who mentioned she knew a Vovk on the Iron Range. I asked her for the spelling of Vovk, to which I responded, “Is that Anita Vovk of Aurora?” And then I met Gloria Barello, who mentioned she had a cousin who lived around Joliet. I asked her name, to which she replied, “Loretta.” I responded and said, “Is it Loretta Story?” What a web we Slovenian-Americans weave! There were solemn moments when John Voelk and son, Connor, played the Slovenian National Anthem on their saxophones. With hands on hearts, and with children stopped in their tracks, the melody of the anthem peeled throughout. It was played for a second time, accompanied by proud voices! Piotre responded, “Another great get-together! Let’s find a pretext for another one soon. Long live Slovenia and the friendship between people.” Thank you to John Voelk and Piotr Horoszowski for the photograph! - Mary Lou Deyak Voelk Left to Right: Gene Voelk, Mary Lou Voelk, and Judy Tabok of Seattle ZARJA THE DAWN Slovenian Union of America Branch 20 Hosts 33rd Annual “Vinska Trgatev” Festival Vinska Trgatev is the Slovenian Grape Harvest Dance Festival that celebrates the annual harvesting of grapes. The tasting and evaluation of the first grapes is an important role, which is carried out by the master or honorary “Mayor” of the event. When ascertained that the grapes are ripe, he or she orders the grape harvest to begin. parade of accordion and button box players in traditional costume will stroll through the “village” playing lively polkas. Past “Mayors” will also join the celebratory parade. Grape gatherers are then chosen by the “Mayor” to collect, weigh, measure the sugar content, grind, press the grapes, and pour the juice into containers, which is a great cause for celebration with polka music and dancing. This year’s Vinska Trgatev “Mayor” is Steve Meisner, accordion extraordinaire. He will entertain guests with his brand of traditional American polka music, sprinkled with a 21st century spark and swing. Meisner has performed nationally and is well known throughout the music world for his many performances in Branson, Missouri; the Life Festival on the Mall, Washington D.C.; and numerous television shows. Each Vinska Trgatev welcomes a new “Mayor” who is entrusted with the duty of presiding over the festivities and welcoming guests to a representation of a Slovenian village square at harvest time. A traditional grape arbor is built over the dance floor with suspended “candy” grape bunches. Attendees are encouraged to “steal the grapes.” However, if caught by the watchful “sheriff”, they may be fined by a “judge” or sent to “jail”, which is all in good fun. A Meisner also performed with top accordionists and polka icons, Myron Floren and Frank Yankovic, and says, “I grew up with the music of my father, Verne, who had a successful music career of his own for over 60 years.” He added that he loves to add his own imagination and feeling to the music. “There is nothing more gratifying than meeting a new fan who has just discovered my music for the first time. When music is good, it’s a good feeling”, he went on to say. Saturday, September 15, 2012 An American rendition of Vinska Trgatev St. Joseph Park Hall, corner of Raynor and Theodore Streets in Joliet Doors open at 3 p.m., festivities begin at 4 p.m. Tickets are $10 and only available at the door; children 10 and under are free. Traditional Slovenian food will be served - cash bar. Proceeds benefit the Slovenian Union of America, Branch 20 - Joliet, Illinois. For more information visit www.slovenianunion.org CONTACT: Jonita Ruth at either 815.727.1926 or 815.546.4396 or Jo Lustick at 815.723.2777 or e-mail: swuhome@sbcglobal.net PERIODICALS POSTAGE PAID LASALLE, IL Slovenian Music - Food - Drink SUA Presents... “Taste of Slovenia” Celebrate St. Martin’s Day Saturday, November 10, 2012 5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. SUA Heritage Museum, 431 North Chicago Street, Joliet, Illinois $25.00 per person - All proceeds benefit SUA’s cultural programs. Sausage - Cheese - Poga~~a - @linkrofi - Potica - Strudel - Flanciti - Chestnuts Wine Tasting - Pivo Tasting - Slivovitz - Blueberry Schnapps - Coffee - Ice Tea Plus Slovenian Culinary Demonstrations Space is Limited To RSVP or for more information contact: Bonnie Prokup at wprokup@aol.com or 815.223.9596