fA V/ c~ ^ ^SfS| v \ A* v /A >" i ? " — ^ ^ e>f \rElt?CDnu mi j£ -' učt>na^tx ampah{ pp^prqstn^t ^ pa^iiriičv! zmik^mm NUMBER 12 DECEMBER, 1989 VOLUME 61 ON THE COVER ZARJA - THE DAWN (ISSN 0044-1848) Postmaster: Send all changes of address to: ZARJA -THE DAWN, 4851 S. Drexel Blvd., Chicago, IL 60615 NO. 12 DECEMBER, 1989 VOLUME 61 Member, Illinois Fraternal Congress Official Publication of the Slovenian Women’s Union of America — Uradno glasilo Slovenske Ženske Zveze. Published monthly except January, June & August — izhaja vsak mesec razen januar, junij in avgust. Annual Subscription for non-members, $10.00 — naročnina $10.00 letno za ne-članice. Publisher: SLOVENIAN WOMEN'S UNION OF AMERICA 431 No. Chicago St., Joliet, IL 60432 Telephone (815) 727-1926 Second Class Postage paid at Chicago, IL All communications for the next issue of publication must be in the hands of the Editor by the first week of the month — vsi dopisi za naslednjo izdajo mesečnika morajo biti v rokah urednice do I. v mesecu. Editor, CORINNE LESKOVAR Editorial Office: 4S51 S. Drexel Blvd., Chicago, IL 60615 Telephone: (312) 548-8878 Slovenian Design Christmas Cards at, cu “POTREBNA MI JE - NE UČENOST, AMPAK PREPROSTOST PASTIRJEV!” “I do not need wisdom, but the simplicity of the shepherds!” Thanks to Lilijana Cepon of Br. 20, Joliet, IL for her Christmas cover design. HAPPY BIRTHDAY IN DECEMBER Presidents: Dec. 14 Dec. 28 Dec. 28 Dec. 31 Dec. 31 Secretaries: Josephine Mohorčič, Br. 25, Cleveland, OH Marie Gombach, Br. 10, Cleveland, OH Agnes Tomazic, Br. 40, Lorain, OH Josephine Kapla, Br. 81, Keewatin, MN Frances Vidmar, Br. 83, Crosby, MN Dec. 9 - Elizabeth Birk, Br. 84, New York, NY Dec. 25 - Jennie Mayasich, Br. 65, Virginia, MN Dec. 29 - Marge Church, Br. 42, Maple Hgts., OH HAPPY BIRTHDAY IN JANUARY National Officer: 6 cards with envelopes, $5.00 Please add $1.00 for postage and handling per order. SLOVENIAN WOMEN’S UNION 431 NO. CHICAGO ST. JOLIET, IL 60432 Jan. 6 Jan. 29 Presidents: Jan. 2 - Jan. 11 -Jan. 11 -Jan. 23 - Secretaries: Jan. 5 Jan. 12 Jan. 14 Jan. 24 Irene Odorizzi, Cultural Heritage Officer, Re-ston, VA Joan Yaklich, Regional President, Wisconsin, West Allis, WI Kay Yuratovac, Br. 73, Warrcnsville Hgts., OH Frances Corel, Br. 93, Brooklyn, NY Kathleen Podobnik, Br. 96, Universal, PA Mary Mundson, Br. 47, Garfield Hgts., OH Mary Jackovich, Br. 28, Calumet, MI Mary Krall, Br. 37, Greaney, MN Virginia Zevkovich, Br. 57, Niles, OH Mary Slaney, Br. 26, Pittsburgh, PA POTS & PANS COOKBOOK a Treasury of Kitchen — tested Recipes (See back cover for details on ordering) JNDEPENDENT AVINGS BANK 1515 E. 260th, Euclid, Ohio 44132 731-8865 920 E. 185th, Cleveland, Ohio 44119 486-4100 2765 SOM Center Rd., Willoughby Hills, Ohio 44094 944-3400 27100 Chardon Road, Richmond Hts., Ohio 44143 944-5500 6650 Pearl Road, Parma Hts., Ohio 44130 845-8200 <^VatLonaL ‘U-'xs.iicls.nt '± ^i-lsnaan ‘Woppy.^oppy ORiuAtMOA 115 4/? I returned from the Duluth Clinic this evening with a splint on my arthritic right hand which I must wear continuously for two weeks plus explicit orders to follow. Immediately the thought of not being able to type or write came to mind. Reports are due—now what shall I do? Stopping at a restaurant en route to our home, I also realized I had to eat with my left hand—a first for me! There is a lesson to be learned from this experience. We tend to take our health and God-given abilities for granted, as though it is a natural part of our existence. How often do we overlook the handicapped, mentally retarded, and those who are ill and bed-ridden because of our daily routine responsibilities which we think are so important and time consuming. During this Advent' season let us fill our lives with kindness and love. Do something special for a friend or neighbor who needs help. We will feel a great sense of satisfaction and will become a compassionate and better person as a result of our actions. December is the last month for election of officers among our branches. Your attendance is vital and your input is supremely important. If asked to accept an office, please do so. When capable members decline an office, there should be no excuse for criticism in the areas that have less than stimulating branches. Remember, our branches are only as good as we, the membership, make it! Attended the S.W.U. 60th Anniversary celebrations of Branch 34, Tower-Soudan and Branch 35, Aurora; very impressive and both super examples of good organization and cooperation among their members. Many thanks to both branches! As we prepare for the beautiful traditions of Christmas, decorating the tree, singing carols, giving gifts, and preparing Christmas dinner, let us be mindful of the most important part of this celebration - the birth of our Lord, Jesus Christ. May our homes be filled with great joy and beauty this Christmas season! Victoria “Tory” Bobence VESELE BOŽIČNE PRAZNIKE — SREČNO NOVO LETO December 19th marks the 63rd anniversary of our beloved Slovenian Women’s Union. In those early days joining Zveza was top priority for women and very special. Through the years there were many accomplishments involving countless dedicated women. In today’s world there are many distractions and distances, yet our heritage ought to rate highly today before it becomes a thing of the past or is lost. It is hoped that you will add a flower-member to Tory’s Greenhouse — enroll at least one new member — daughter, son, other relative and friend — no matter where they live. Each of us should be responsible for enrolling a new member, especially the young, thus enriching and beautifying our organization. Warm and special thanks are extended to the dedicated branch officers and members for their hard work and sacrifices through the year. “May the beauty, the blessings and the joy of this Holiday Season be yours to share with the people you love. ” Olga Ancel, Sylvia Vukodinovich, National Secretary National Treasurer .afrfrsj FROM THE EDITOR the m: The next time you pick up a copy of ZARJA, we will be in the 1990’s - a time that is predicted to rival any past decade in technology, in ecology, in science of all dimensions and in communication. Are we ready for it? You bet your boots we are! We’re ready for the challenges and promise that the 90’s bring and, as my grandson says: “I’m excited!” As we approach the new year, our television sets will be graphically describing the changes and improvements we can expect, but what about us? Are we going to sit back and let it all happen around us? Are we going to be passive participants - waiting for others to do it and then push us ahead? That’s one way, because eventually, we will all get there - where the world places us. But, wouldn’t it be better to be a “mover” and “shaker” yourself? See where, in your life, you can make a difference, the little corner of the world where you can make a special contribution to progress. Start with yourself. Those New Year resolutions may be old-hat, but just think of one thing that will take you out of your chair - your complacency - and make you MOVE! That too hard? Then, open your mind to a new way of doing - or thinking. Take a course in a subject you’ve always liked - reach out and help someone - join something! Aha! Now we've hit it! Join something or be a better member in what you have already joined! Get the drift? Yes, I’m sure you have. I don’t think you realize what a powerful tool you have in your own presence, your own input into the activities of our Slovenian Women’s Union. If you don’t believe me, just look for a moment into the ways your officers make a difference! Look at your president - she’s concerned that the meetings are held and plans carried out! Look at the secretary - who is always flipping those ledger pages, figuring and counting, to improve your financial situation -Look at the recording secretary - who is making sure all the activities of your branch are written down for the future -and look at your reporter - who is trying so hard to keep you abrest of the news on a regular basis in ZARJA. Now look at you! Do you know something? YOU ARE THE ONE VITAL PERSON WE NEED IN THE 90’S! You are the one who can make the difference! Bring the S.W.U. into your life and put yourself into it. You can be a lady of the 90’s right in your own back yard! And, it is so easy. Start with love - what you have for others and they have for you. It’s there - the basis for all things good and true. Love is in Every S-LOVE-nian Women’s Union Member, too. Then pick up ZARJA and read all the messages our good officers have prepared for you. When that light begins to shine, follow thru and make a New Year’s Resolution that includes the S.W.U. Now we only looking ahead. When the 90’s begin, we begin! Right? HOW DOES ZARJA GET DONE? Bet you wonder sometimes about the production of our monthly ZARJA. It takes a lot of scheduling, lots of different procedures and ultimately, the printed page forms must be gathered, stitched and trimmed. This process sometimes needs a few extra hands and our good members of Chicago did just that recently -bringing their energetic hands along to help get ZARJA done! On this photo we see Mary Muller, Ann Bunetta, editor Corinne, Ann Mladic, Elsie Ciszek and Mamie Fabian, all of Br. 2. The Croatian Franciscan Press which prints our ZARJA is very grateful to anyone who wants to help and adds their appreciation to this group. No doubt, the Editor feels the same! NO. 1, SHEBOYGAN, WI Our Christmas party is scheduled for Dec. 19th at Rupp’s Lodge at 6 p.m. This is our annual meeting where many important decisions will be made. Call Aggie at 452-8808 for reservations. Many of our members are in Nursing Homes in the Sheboygan area. We are planning holiday visits to them. Please contact us if you have a member of your family in a Home or if she is homebound, and we will visit her. Call Dorothy Brezonik, 457-9371. Deepest sympathy to Sophie Casper and family on the death of her husband. Our prayers are with you. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all members of the Slovenian Women’s Union. Hope to see our members at the Christmas Party Dec. 19th. It is also our anniversary date, 63 years ago. Thanks to all members who paid their 1989 dues. AGGIE GRUENKE NO. 2, CHICAGO, IL The colors of fall are upon us, October was a very good month to get out and see what nature has prepared for us. You can see a true “Artist” at work. We had an early visit from old man Frost; our vegetable gardens are gone for this year as well as the delicate flowers, only the more hardy flowers remain. Now we have time to prepare the earth for next year. The forests are putting on a show of reds, yellows, oranges and the fields are also beautiful. Our October meeting was in that setting, Terry put us in a cornfield with pumpkins, cornstalks, pretty falling leaves and even our placemats were different colored leaves with Mary Foys Fauretrig’s centerpieces of beautifull fall flowers. Our President, Fran Morison began the meeting with a prayer; she also reminded us all that October was the month of the Rosary, that we should try to pray the Rosary. The officers gave their reports which were approved. Fran reported on the following: State Convention: It was a big success. She thanked all the members who worked very hard for two days to pull this convention together, and also to all the branches for participating and members for attending. Mary Ann Oblak reported there were 8 delegates and 4 National Officers in attendance, and members from the branches. One of the issues that was brought up at the convention: How long should an officer hold office? Branch 2 feels that each branch should regulate their own officers’ terms. Next year the convention will the hosted by South Chicago, keep the date open. Mike Morison was our keynote speaker. Donations were given to the Scholarship Fund $1,000.00 and the Heritage Museum $1,000.00 by our branch. St. Francis Statue - Good News!!! Father Vendelin reported the statue has arrived and will be installed shortly. More later... Baraga - We will begin the 3rd year with Mass at St. Mary’s in Lem-ont for the Bishop Baraga Cause. Hope many of you will be able to attend this year. Remember it’s the last Saturday of the month - 5:30 p.m. and afterwards we have a little social with Mary Ann Oblak keeping us informed on the life of Bishop Baraga. More will be reported on the Baraga Days week-end which will be held at St. Stephens over the Labor Day week end in 1990. Christmas Party - December 15, Friday Night - Tickets to be obtained from Jean Hraster - Members $4.00 and guests $7.00. Childrens’ Christmas Party -Mickey Mouse - December 2. Election - The same officers were re-elected with exception of one auditor. They are: President - Frances Morison; Treasurer - Sharon Naud-ziunas; Secretary - Delores Puhek; Recording Secretary - Gloria Nusko; VicePresident - Mary Foys Lauretig; Sentinel - Luba Troha; Kitchen -Catherine Srabarnek; Auditors - Jean Hraster, Mary Ann Oblak and Agnes Wroblewski; Reporter - Jean Železnikar. ADVENT TEA - December 3 after all Masses. Please try to attend, it is a lovely way to start the Christmas holidays. Cheer Basket - Please try to remember to bring items for the Christmas time, it can be especially lonely at this time of year. Whatever you bring will be appreciated and could make a big difference in a person’s life. Shut-Ins - Remember to drop a card or make a telephone call to someone who is at home and cannot go out very well. It will make them very happy and you will feel very good. If you know a member who needs help please tell one of the officers so help can be arranged. God Bless Father Chemazar, who is the new pastor of St. Stephen’s Church. We hope he will be happy here and that God will grant him many years of good health. We sure enjoy his talks at our meetings. Congratulations to Mike and Susan (Rowe) Morison on their marriage in Connecticut, October 7; officiating at the wedding was Father Fortunat of Lemont. Also, good luck, Mike, on your new position with NASA. Our condolences to Helen Fitzgerald and Josie Lukas on the loss of their brother, John Kryzwanos; and also to Alma Trinko and the Trinko family on the loss of Mary Trinko. Please remember them in yopr prayers, that they may rest in peace. Father Kalist is off to New York to help out at St. Cyril’s while Father Robert is recovering from his operation. We hope that he will get well soon. The Slovenian School is on hold while Father Kalist is away; if you are interested in enrolling, it will resume later. Belated birthday wishes to Mrs. Mary Ovnik who celebrated her 90th birthday on Saturday, September 16th. To mark this joyous occasion, Mrs. Ovnik enjoyed an evening out to dinner with her family, daughters, Marie, Elsie Piszczor, Dolores Nauheimer, Judy, Lorraine, son John and their families. Our wishes to Mrs. Ovnik that God will grant her many more years of good health. Congratulations to great-grandma Frances Zibert and Josie Squok, to grandma Frances Schultz and to the parents Bill and Therese Schultz on the birth of Matthew Joseph Schultz, bom 10/1/89, 8 lb. 10 oz. To great grandma Anne Bunetta on the arrival of little Megan Suzanne Bunetta, October 6, 1989. To grandma Agnes Wroblewski (daughter Suzanne) on the birth of Steven Matthew Perez, born September 15, 1989, 8 lb. And to grandma Rose Mary Litwin (Densa) and parents, Lori and George Britt on the birth of Zachery Michael, September 24, 1989, 7 lb. 5-1/2 oz. We are all very happy for you and for us - more members for S.W.U. Please remember all our sick members in your prayers (molite za naše bolnike): Lillian Seibert, Elsa An-toniolli. Pearl Guzunskas, Adrienne McCormick, Stella Gorka, Frances Kozel, Jennie Puhek, Sally Kavcic, John Blatnik. Joe Worth works with Misericordia in a program called “Labels for Education" to obtain audio/visual tools, atheltic equipment, teaching aids and possibly a van to transport the students. They need your help by saving the following Campbell Soup products: Campbell soups. Beans, V-8 Franco-American, Peppridge Farm Products, Vlasic pickles, Swanson canned and frozen products, Prego, Mrs. Paul’s frozen foods and Campbell’s Juice Bowl juices. Please bring the labels to the meeting, if you live out and do not attend the monthly meetings please mail them to St. Stephen's Church marked for Slovenian Women’s Union so Jean Hraster will know. Susie Rigler has had a very busy summer. At the Illinois State Fair she performed in her Slovenian narodna noša attire with Mojca and Mike Magayna, her brother, Vince and wife Tina provided the music. She also helped her mother, Mary, surprise her grandparents, Mr. & Mrs. Stražišar for their “60th Wedding Anniversary”. We all wish them many more years of good health and happiness. Congratulations to the Slovene Radio Program on their 39th year (since Ludwig Leskovar began it) and with the Slovenian Day Festival. It was great. We all enjoyed the young children and teen dancers from Canada and Sheboygan, Wisconsin. Ann Sam returned from her trip to Slovenia. She had a great time, met many of her relatives for the first time from both her mom's and dad’s side. It was a very joyous reunion with many tears, much emotion; they were so glad to see her. Ann speaks perfect Slovenian, and everyone there was surprised. She was very thankful that Father Potočnik took the time to take her around so she could see some of the sights. She had such a good time that she plans on returning soon. Jennie Kovacic is off to New York for a stageshow week end. A very special “Thank you” to Terry Morison from all the members of Branch 2 for all the beautiful decorations he puts up for us each month; this takes so much time. It really makes us feel good when we come to the meetings and are surprised and thrilled to see what he has done for us. We really appreciate it, Terry even tho we don’t say it to you too often. In your prayers please remember those people who lost so much in the earthquake of California and also the hurricane off our east coast of the Carolina’s. As you are reading this, you all would have had your Thanksgiving Day - hope your families were with you, and everyone had a nice time. Our holidays come so fast, it seems each year gets shorter. While you are getting ready for the Christmas holidays, let’s not forget whose day it is. In the spirit of the Lord’s day, may we remember those members who have gone on ahead of us. God so loved the animals, He chose to have His only Son to be bom among them. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. PLEASE NOTE The lucky family with the twins that I reported last month were: The Turner family - Frank Sr. & Frank Jr. - arrived were a boy and girl -Samantha & Frankie. We were all happy to see them at the Honey Picnic; they are beautiful. Congratulations to the family. Želim vsem blagoslovljen božič in zdravo srečno novo leto. Love, DAISY NO. 3, PUEBLO, CO We had 17 members present at our November meeting. It’s a pleasure to see so many because it is quite an improvement over our past attendance. Anne Spelich opened the meeting with prayers and reports were given and approved. We had two members in the hospital, Pauline Jamnick and Lillian Germ. Pauline is still there but Lillian is at home now. Our prayers are with them. The Christmas party was discussed and it was unanimously approved to have it catered with a cost to each member of $5.50. There will be more information out on this. There will be a gift exchange and some door prizes. We are hoping to have a good attendance. Rolls for our meeting were furnished by Agnes Cvar, Gertrude Jordan and Rose Zupančič. Coffee and tea were also served. “B” was enjoyed by those present. Happy Holidays to all and let’s don't forget our sick, homebound and those in rest homes. PAULINE PAUCHICK NO. 10 CLEVELAND, OH On Wednesday, Sept. 20th, the meeting was called to order by pres. Marie Gombach. Prayers were said for our sick and deceased members. Correspondence was read; treasurer’s report on our bake sale that was in August, at the SND on Holmes Ave. for the Homecoming. We thank all ladies who helped to prepare, baked and helped in any way to make it a success. Discussed was our Christmas Party which will be on Wed. Jan. 17th. Keep this date in mind. The place will be announced later. Please check your policies, if there is to be any change in beneficiaries. Call the secretary when a member dies so that our banner can be put on display and we can pay our respects. The first prize for our money-making project was a hand crocheted af-ghan which was won by Terry Vait-kosky. The second prize went to Helen Strumble and third to Toni Alic; fourth prize to Joe Tomsick and fifth to Helen Suhy. We thank all who bought tickets and espccailly to Steffie Segulin who sold the most tickets. The meeting was adjourned, refreshments were served. Hope you will remember to pay your dues for 1990 at the next meeting. It will be appreciated. Congratulations! Michel Bokausek, a member of Br. 10 has won a S.W.U. scholarshipp. He is the grandson of our member, Faye Moro and his parents are Marion and Frank Bokausek of Mentor, Ohio. He is attending the University of Dayton and will be majoring in English. His goals are to have a career in writing, plays, novels or for the movies. We wish him well in his chosen career. ANN STEFANČIČ Rev. Athanasius Lovrenčič, OFM Christmas joy It seems that at Christmas time all troubles cease, all anxieties and worries disappear. Our attention is focused on the Crib and the tiny baby in it. We become more relaxed, yes, even happy tunes are heard around the house as we try to get ready for Christmas. And rightfully so, because Christ brings us the good news, that God did not forget us, that He sent His Son to be with us always. Christmas brings us so much good news, that not only the earth is rejoicing but heaven as well. "Suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host, praising God,” we read in the Gospel. Yes, Christmas is a time of rejoicing. But then, one would say, this does not help much, as we have to return to our daily lives which brings us so many disappointments and suffering. Here we all make a big mistake; we work hard so that everything would be prepared at Christmas for people around us and we forget about ourselves. At Christmas time Christ would like to tell us that He came for us not just for one or two days, but to stay with us. Christ came to break the power of sin and make us children of God. Therefore we have all reason to rejoice and be glad in spite of difficulties, realizing that “God is with us,” as we read in the liturgy. Jesus came to lead us not only to everlasting joy, but to bring joy to this dismal world as well and be our strength as we contemplate His infinite love in the Crib. Let us open our hearts and minds to the joy of Christmas like children. After all, we became children of God again because of the Baby of Bethlehem. May this Christmas bring joy and peace to your hearts and your families and may the Dear Lord walk with you through the New Year islinayou the special\jorj that only (Christmas brings. 1990 SLOVENIAN WOMEN’S UNION SCHOLARSHIP AWARDS Dear Graduating High School Students: The time has come to apply for a Slovenian Women's Union $1000 scholarship. To be eligible for a scholarship you are to be a member of the S.W.U. for at least three years before graduation. While good grades are very important, the seven member Scholarship Committee also considers the follow- ing in their evaluation: community, church and school involvement besides financial need and branch participation. To receive the scholarship brochure giving all the necessary information to apply, please mail the form below. Sincerely, Hermine Dicke, chairman S.W.U. Scholarship Committee f Request for Scholarship Application I am considering applying for one of the S.W.U. scholarships which will be awarded to members who will be 1990 high school graduates. Please send me the official application form which must be completed by March 31, 1990. □ I am a high school senior planning to attend an accredited college or university. NAME STRF.F.T CITY STATF. & ZIP CODE Mail to: Hermine Dicke, 3717 Council Crest, Madison, WI 53711 V y FOUR GENERATIONS OF MEMBERS! We love to hear from our members and especially when they are families of members! Mary Tushar has enrolled all her family in Br. 32 and proudly posed for the above photo (right) with her darling daughter, Marilyn Valentine (left), granddaughter Maribeth Dottore (standing in back) and great granddaughter, Karen Elizabeth, sitting on grandma’s lap. Marilyn was living in Lyndhurst for a while and then moved to Kalamazoo, Michigan. Maribeth lives in Hockessin, Delaware. Baby Karen is 1-1/2 years old on this picture. Many good wishes and congratulations! NO. 12, MILWAUKEE, WI October meeting was well-at-tended, starting with prayers led by Stavia. We miss the Slovenian prayers by Frances Plesko and do hope she’s doing o.k. at St. Ann’s Rest Home and I’m sure she would like a visit; and the thought occurs to me that our other older folks would probably appreciate visits, too. Reports were all read and accepted with a few suggestions for a better way of handling prizes. Stavia thanked all who helped with the various jobs, as well as the wonderful bak- ery donated and sold, also the coffee and sandwiches. All help was greatly appreciated and to everyone who attended and sold tickets that made it a successful money-maker, thanks. Remember the elections were in November so that everyone would have a free evening for the Christmas party in December. It will be held at Mayer’s Restaurant at 6015 W. Forest Home Ave. on Dec. 21st, the regular meeting date. More information can be given by calling either Stavia or me. We will want to know who is coming and the dinner selection. Presents will be exchanged with those who so desire and our usual entertainment will follow. Mary Evanish took the minutes as Chris B. was very sick with the Flu and its miserable symptoms. She’s doing fine now. Mary Kiel was back from her four weeks visit to Slovenia and we will have to wait for another time to hear about her wonderful trip as we were too busy with the business discussions that night. The meeting ended with prayers. Lunch was enjoyable served by the birthday girls, Evelyn Laurich, Rose Lueble, and Rose Mary Spiedel. Happy birthday was sung for them and our games followed. Marie Drekkan could use your prayers. M.D. SAN FRANCISCO REPORTER TELLS OF EARTHQUAKE NO. 13, SAN FRANCISCO, CA I have tried to write this article many times in the last few days and I cannot seem to collect my thoughts long enough to get them on paper. It is just one week after the San Francisco Earthquake of 1989 and even last night, as I was having coffee at the Shopping Center, we had another 4.5 aftershock at 5:30 p.m. But, the Big quake hit us at 5:04 p.m. on Tuesday, October 17th. Thousands of people were at Candlestick Park for Game 3 of the World Series and thousands more were on their way home from work. I was driving on an off-ramp near my home and I thought all four of my brand new tires had blown at once! I was home in ten minutes to find a lot of broken glass - many of my beautiful collectibles shattered on the floor - but my home was intact. The power and phone lines were out so I couldn’t call any of my family. I had a transistor radio and began listening to the news. At this time, I could not believe nor comprehend the devastation that they were describing. Without TV, the radio descriptions were scary, telling of collapsed freeways, a portion of the Bay Bridge down and the beautiful Marina District in flames. By 11:00 p.m. the power came back on so 1 could watch the city on TV. We saw sections of our beautiful city leveled and in flames. I can’t describe the emotions. It has been a week of many emotions. First and foremost, fear! Then, shock, sorrow, anticipation and pride. I was born and raised in S.F. on the "Slovenian Hill” and even now, live only a few minutes away. To watch the love and sharing that people have for one another is something to see. All this heartache is comforted by so much caring and giving -stranger to stranger. As 1 write this there is another aftershock, the 76th! So much of San Francisco is gone. It is difficult to get anywhere because of closed freeways and streets. Homes are being leveled every day because they are unstable. Unfortunately, there is devastation in many communities - as far as 70 miles from the city. In Watsonville 800 people are living in tents. The beautiful beach city of Santa Cruz was almost totally leveled. There are 14,000 homeless to far. But the most devastating story is the collapse of Freeway 880 in Oakland. This is a two tier highway and the upper level came down on the lower portion that is used for commuting traffic. There is still no final death count as they cannot continue rescue efforts because of the continuing aftershocks. The highest point between the tiers is only 36 inches wide and still after 4 days, they have just found a survivor. The cheers as they brought him down were tremendous and everyone had tears in their eyes at the sight. I thank God that all my loved ones and friends are safe with no major damage. My beautiful broken decanters seem very trivial losses now. There are so many stories. It has touched everyone differently. I personally feel great sorrow to see our beautiful Bay Bridge so heavily damaged. My late husband was a motorcycle officer with the California (We were so glad to hear from our San Francisco Reporter after the earthquake. Our thoughts and prayers were with all of our members and their families here. We wish you all a speedy return to normalcy and a stable atmosphere. We're very proud of you and your courage. Ed.) Photos: San Francisco Chronicle San Francisco — A Miracle of Courage Highway Patrol and worked "his bridge” for 18 years. It was always a special place in our lives. Rudy Troya, Sophie’s husband tells about the 1906 quake. His mother dragged all their belongings out and Rudy, who was only 18 days old at the time was brought to safety on Pot-rero Hill. The houses built there are on solid rock. It is fondly called “Kranjski Hrib” where so many of our people reside. Also, our Slovenian Hall is there. After 83 years now, on almost the same spot, Rudy survived the second earthquake of his life. And, San Francisco is a survivor! She is proud of that and has proved it. Our hearts and help go out to all those who so desparately need it now. I have seen lines of people giving blankets, clothes, food, money and love. The strength from this love will raise San Francisco again like the Phoenix, from the ashes. BEVERLY JACKSON NO. 16, CHICAGO, IL September meeting was opened with prayer by Pres. Marge Prebil. All welcomed after the summer. Mary Gorenz was hospitalized and Mary Sasek had cataract surgery. Fr. Sashek had bypass surgery. Alvina Sreboth was also on the sick list. We also hear that Polly Klobučar was in Michigan. We miss you Polly. Prayers to all of you. Dolores O’Brien will be our delegate for the Convention Oct. 1 at St. Stephen’s Parish. A “thank you” for the 80th Anniversary gift to Franciscan Sisters of Christ the King was read. Marge Prebil won first prize at St. George’s. Dolores O’Brien entertained us with a report of her wonderful trip to Europe this Summer. October 12th meeting was opened-with a prayer at 7:45 by Pres. Marge Prebil. There were 21 members present. In the absence of Secretary Phyllis Perko minutes were read by Fran Zupančič. Seventeen Br. 16 members and 22 Br. 95 members traveled by bus together to St. Stephen’s Parish for the annual 111.-Ind. Convention. Members were thanked by Pres. Marge Prebil. A memorial prayer was said for deceased member Stephanie Musich who passed away Monday Oct. 9th. Our sympathies are extended to her family. We also extend sympathies to A call to San Francisco was made after the quake and the editor talked to Moreen Spencer, secretary of Br. 13. She described the courage and helpfulness of all the people and that even now there are continuing aftershocks daily. People of San Francisco are making the best of a very hard situation that entails long hours on the outlying roads and over the Bay getting to and from work, dealing with inconveniences of all kinds and accepting the fact that almost every house has cracks in the walls and people have lost precious things that shattered during the quake. She said, “It shook so hard, even the water splashed out of the toilet bowl! We caught the grandfather’s clock in time and everyone we know has broken china, glasses, windows. Our cabinets unloaded, but thanks to God our house is still standing. As they say people get “Sea Legs”; we’re getting “Quake Legs”. We only had a 4.4 after quake last night. Rocking ’n Rollin.” At the Church of the Nativity where our Slovenian people attend mass, Fr. Tina Martin and family in the death of her son, Larry. A letter from Dolores O’Brien was read with an apology for not being in attendance but also gave a report of the Convention as our Delegate and her pride in being a Slovene on her mother’s side. Her European trip and her heritage were recalled by the wearing of her new Slovene garments. Branch 16 will be hosts to the 111.-Ind. Convention in 1990. Election of officers will take place in January 1990. As of that time Marge Prebil will resign to give someone else a challenge. Our Christmas party will be December 14 (meeting night) at the Crow Bar Inn at 6:30 p.m. at acostof $10. Motion was made by Mary Puterko and seconded by Elaine Strubel to close the meeting. Same was done with a prayer. Goodies were donated by birthday celebrants Dorothy and Phyllis Perko, Edna Winters and Fran Zupančič. Coffee was served by Mary Krznaric and Sylvia Spretnjak. “B” was played. The four vases of beautiful silver dollar flowers supplied by Marge and Sylvia Spretnjak were John Mihovilovich, led his elderly housekeeper out into the street, his first fearful reaction. He didn’t know it was more dangerous than staying indoors! Moreen’s aunt Jo (Jo Aiuto is our Br. 13 president) thought her husband fell own the stairs or something when she heard and felt a “crash” as she was putting soup on the table for dinner. She scolded him for being clumsy! He looked at her and said, “I’m right here!” The husband of another aunt, Virginia Sustaric, just missed the collapse of the 880 bridge which he normally takes home because he hurt his thumb at work and left his job an hour earlier. So the people of Kranski Hrib rode out the earthquake rather well. The 15 seconds of quaking seemed to them 15 hours but they are all o.k. There were a lot of miracles that day. The statues at Nativity Church all remained standing during the quake and not a window was broken, altho a collapsed freeway is right next to it. Again, God bless all of you in San Francisco. Ed. truly beautiful. Everyone won something. CONGRATULATIONS! to Dale and Pat (Lustig) Schwer who celebrated their 25th Wedding Anniversary on Saturday Oct. 21st with their three children, Dale, Valerie and Stephen and their families. Pat is the daughter of former III.-Ind. Regional President, Anna Lustig. CONGRATULATIONS to our member Sean Monahan on receiving the Eagle Award, the highest in Scouting. He also worked for and received an unusual amount of Merit badges (56) plus 12 Skill badges. Sean is the son of our member Kathy Monahan and grandson of our President Marge Prebil. You may remember Sean as the youngster who entertained us with his singing at several of our parties about nine years ago. Sean was honored at a banquet on November 3rd in Jacksonville, III., his former home town. His family, grandma Prebil, aunties and cousins were there to share in his joy. Our best wishes to you, Sean, for many more years in scouting. FRAN ZUPANČIČ Dolores O’Brien finds her roots! Here I am, a little more than a month home from the “trip of a lifetime”! My dream trip! It was like being suspended in air! All those little stars shooting off all around me, like you see in Disney's Magical Kingdom! 1 couldn’t believe it was really happening to me. My first visit to my mother’s dear Slovenia! It all started on August IOth when 1 left Chicago for Zagreb, but I arrived there finally, on August 11th. That’s another story! My cousin, Vlado and wife, Marička met me and then the fun and journey really began. We drove first to his home in Krško along the Sava River. After a “little lunch” and short nap we were off to the village of Globoko, to his father’s farm, where I would meet our uncle, Jože Dimbeck. I was really stunned when our car arrived in that little farmyard surrounded by beautiful forests and hills. People were everywhere. They had traveled from many parts to see me arrive. A very heartfelt “dobrodošli” was accorded me. Jože, who is 85 years young and in frail health, was the main person for whom this trip was intended. And, he could not take his eyes off me. Tears were streaming down his face and he was petting my face, saying over and over again, “Moja Dolores!” What I remembered in those first moments was a lifetime of stories told by my mother of "Slovenija, moja dežela", of hardworking people, dedicated, industrious, education-minded, a people who can laugh and sing, eat and drink with gusto, in spite of the hardships they endure. And, here I was with my own cousins, aunts, uncles I had never known existed, and we were all crying together and happy to see each other. It was like the forests, rivers and mountains all came together and sang to me, "Slovenia, Slovenia!" This picture tells it all! Dolores and her uncle Jože Dirnbeck embraced upon their first meeting in the village of Globoko, near Brežice in Slovenia where Dolores visited this summer. She was the first in the family to make this “pilgrimage” and the older folks were especially thrilled to meet their American relative. Uncle Jože just cried and cried, says Dolores. In the ensuing days ahead, I was taken to see many beautiful places, sight-seeing the caves, waterfalls, lakes, churches, and castles which make up this beautiful land. When I would wake up in the morning, or view the sunset at night, I would always see from all angles the beautiful lush hills with the church on top, it's golden dome shining, hugging its highest peak. I will forever carry this picture in my memory. My visit took me also to my mother's birthplace. Sent Janž near the Austrian border. When I stood on the moun-taintop across from the village and looked down into it, I felt as time stood still. I had a picture which was sent to my mother almost 70 years ago, and as I looked at it now, and compared it to the real thing, all my emotions ran rampant. It was the same. I walked the narrow road and viewed the church, now closed. 1 could not believe I was in the same place where my mother had been born and lived as a child, that far away place that was so precious Just at presstime, Dolores received word by telephone that her uncle Jože passed away on Saturday, Nov. 11th, at almost the same moment she and her family were at Mass in observance of the anniversary of her mother’s death that same date. She is now expecting a letter he wrote to her one day before, a letter that his relatives say was the last thing he did before losing consciousness on Friday. We have often heard that a parent or grandparent seems to subconsciously wait to see a special loved one before dying, and Dolores has that feeling about her Uncle Jože. May he rest in peace. The village of Sent Janž near Slovenj Gradec, in the background of this picture is the birthplace of Dolores’ mother. We hope Dolores will share more of her trip with us in the coming issues. to her. It was a very special time for me, made possible by my cousins, Vlado "and Tonči. I have always known what the words "Slovenian hospitality” meant. I grew up with it! It always left my American friends in awe! When I made my visits now to each of my relatives , I was constantly reminded of it. How could one eat so many meals in an evening? I thought I would never eat again! All those delicious soups, meats, salads, vegetables, poticas, strudels! Oh, my! And, of course, wine, wine, wine with everything! I’m glad a few of those meals were spread over several days! But, the days came and went too quickly. The magic was ending, too. Nothing like it will ever be possible in my life! It is all forever locked in my memory... memory touched with love. These people not only welcomed me wholeheartedly into their homes and activities, but mostly, and more importantly, they welcomed me into their hearts. I came as a stranger, but left as a dear friend, one locked into their hearts forever, too! "Jaz sem Slovenska dekle!” Dolores O’Brien Branch 16, Chicago, IL Dolores visited the famed Plitvice Lakes area, one of the most beautiful natural wonders! This place was named in the National Geographic publication NATURE’S WONDERLANDS - NATIONAL PARKS OF THE WORLD. HERMINE PRISLAND DICKE 3717 COUNCIL CREST MADISON, Wl 53711 Editor’s note: Corrections of last month’s recipes: BREAD STUFFING change 3-3/4 lbs. white bread to 3/4 lb. white bread PUMPKIN CAKE ROLL change 2/4 cup pumpkin to 2/3 cup pumpkin ROAST BEEF AU JUS pounds standing prime rib roast Salt Pepper The meat man did remove the bones for easier carving then tied them to the roast for added flavor; optional. Four hours before serving time remove meat from refrigerator and let stand at room temperature for an hour before roasting. Preheat oven to 375°. Rub meat well with salt; sprinkle with pepper. Place meat fat side up in a shallow roasting pan. DO NOT COVER; DO NOT ADD WATER. Roast in 375° oven for just one hour. Turn off heat; leave door closed; do not remove meat. 30 to 40 minutes before serving time, turn oven on again to 375°. Roast meat for those remaining 30 to 40 minutes (in 40 minutes the meat is pink in the center and fairly well done in end pieces). Remove roast to serving platter; garnish with parsley. Serves 8 to 10. r PISTACHIO SALAD can (20 ounces) crushed pineapple package (serves 4) sugar-free Pistachio JELL-O instant pudding 2 cups thawed Cool Whip l'i cup chopped walnuts Pour pineapple with juice and pudding in bowl. Beat with wire whisk or electric mixer at low speed for two minutes. Fold in Cool Whip and nuts. Refrigerate several hours or overnight. Yields 4 cups. Accent with red candied cherries for Christmas. As pudding, can be served five minutes after mixing, in dessert dishes; soft set. r' BLUEBERRY CHEESE CAKE Crust: 2 cups graham cracker crumbs, (reserve cup for topping) lU cup sugar '* cup Imperial margarine or butter Mix and pat lightly in greased 9 x 13-inch pan; bake in low oven, 325°, for 5 minutes. Filling: 2 1 packages (8 ounces each) Phil. 4 cream cheese, softened 1 cup sugar 1 beaten eggs teaspoon vanilla can (21 ounces) Blueberry pie filling Beat cream cheese and sugar; add eggs and vanilla. Beat until creamy and spread over crust. In 375° oven, bake 15 to 20 minutes. When cooled, spread with blueberry pie filling. Top with whipped rream or Cool Whip. Sprinkle reserved graham cracker crumbs over all. Refrigerate. (I use Cool Whip). HOLIDAY PINEAPPLE SLICES 1 can sliced pineapple (8 or 20 ounces), drained, reservejuice package (8 ounces) whipped cream cheese Small red candy balls Parsley sprigs Add a little juice to whipped cheese. Mix until smooth. Spread each pineapple slice with the cheese mixture. At three different places, cluster three red candies and arrange sprigs of parsley around them. NUT BARS Bottom layer: l,i cup margarine, softened l1^ cups white flour ll2 teaspoon salt 3,t cup powdered sugar Heat oven to 350°. Mix ingredients and press into well greased 9 x 13-inch pan. Bake 10 minutes at 350°. Glaze: 1 can (12 ounces) Fischers mixed nuts cup white corn syrup 2 tablespoons margarine 1 package (6 ounces) butterscotch chips Spread nuts over baked crust. Melt com syrup, margarine and butterscotch chips and pour carefully over nuts. Bake 5 minutes at 350°. Cut into small squares. NO. 17, WEST ALLIS, VVI Our beautiful fall season with its colorful scenery regretably has come to an end. The winter season is here and we hope Mother Nature will be kind and reasonable as we go about shopping and preparing for the busy Christmas holidays. This brings me to mention our annual business meeting and Christmas social on Sunday, Dec. 17th at 2 p.m. There will be the distribution of gifts to the children and a $2.50 gift exchange among the members. Refreshments will be served with an assortment of bakery and goodies. Here I go begging again, ladies, for bakery which will be very much appreciated. Thanks in advance for your generosity. Received word that Mitzie Marolt has not been feeling well lately. Mitzie, hurry and get well - we miss you! We miss you especially at our meetings. Also our auditor, Pauline Gudec is not in the best of health. Get better soon, Pauline as we miss you, too. “The more we prepare for Christmas with loving thoughts, good deeds and kindness for our loved ones", says our parish priest, “the greater will be our joy on Christmas Day.” I wish you all a Merry and Blessed Christmas. A few holiday dishes are: succulent ROAST BEEF AU JUS and PIS* TACHIO SALAD from my daughter, Kathy Gorton, of Br. 1, Sheboygan, WI; terrific NUT BARS and CHEESE BALL by Christy Mesojedec of Br. 31, Gilbert, MN and delicious BLUEBERRY CHEESE CAKE by Helen Milanovich of Br. 16, Chicago, IL. An attractive plate of PINEAPPLE WREATHS garnished the table last year at a Christmas buffet dinner I attended which the guests enjoyed. Love, Hermine CHEESE BALL 2 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened 1 cup crushed pineapple, well drained cup finely chopped green pepper 1 tablespoon Lawry’s seasoning salt 11;4 cups finely chopped walnuts, usingin ingredients; other S to roll ball in Mix ingredients; form ball, roll into 1/2 crushed walnuts; chill at least 2 hours. Serve with cocktail crackers. Julia Omahne is now a resident at a health care center in West Bend, Wis. and is adjusting very well to her new environment. Keep in mind our splendid cookbooks as Christmas gifts and the poetry book "Flowers from my gardens.” These books will be treasured for years to come. A very blessed and Happy Christmas season to all our members and friends! "Vam vsem želimo vesele božične praznike and srečno novo leto". FRAN PIWONI ^Wintzx (Iccze. of c^foUizjiLanti, Treating your houseplants with tender, loving care during the winter months is especially demanding since changes occur that are critical to plant growth, namely: light, temperature, water, humidity, fertilizer and soil. By carefully observing their changing needs in your environment and learning the basic care of your plants, you can grow houseplants successfully. LIGHT. Most plants need as much winter light as possible. Filtered light (sheer curtains or blinds) may provide adequate light for summer but will not suffice in the winter. A plant with variegated leaves requires good light in order to maintain their color pattern. The north side of the house provides very little growth light during the winter months, therefore switching plants to an east window exposure will provide a cool morning light. Many plants can remain in an eastern exposure all year long. The west is the warmest location during the summer months but becomes cool in winter. Placing plants too close to the window can cause serious damage, so be very careful. Growing houseplants under fluorescent lights can be especially beneficial for continuous blooming of African violets and other specialty plants. HUMIDITY. Our homes do not provide adequate humidity during the winter. Forced air and wood burning heat robs the humidity from the air. Grouping your houseplants closely together creates their own microclimate. A cold water humidifier is helpful in keeping the humidity level normal resulting in healthier plants. WATERING. More plants are killed by over-watering than by any other cause. Again, water very carefully and learn the specific needs of your plant. The plant will rot when there is too much water and slowed growth. Always use room temperature water; if you have chlorine water, let the water stand overnight in an open container. Avoid splashing on leaves as spotting may occur. TEMPERATURE. A ten degree fluctuation in temperature between daytime to nightime is preferred for most plants. Keep away from heat ducts and window sills. Keep draperies open. If plants are kept on a window sill, a cardboard should be placed between the plants and windowpane during cold winter nights. SOIL. It would be advisable NOT to re-pot during the winter months as it causes a shock to the root system. If soil salts accumulate, gently run warm water through the pot. Then when plants reawaken and start to grow, usually in March, it is time to re-pot. FERTILIZER. From November through February refrain from fertilizing as a build-up of fertilizer during short winter days can cause problems. With continued heavy feedings growth will be small, soft and unhealthy. INSECTS do not create as great a problem as one would believe. About ten percent of houseplant problems are due to insects. Spider mites are the most prevalent indoor pest. If you notice a fine webbing on the underside of the leaf, wash these plants every 7 to 10 days with soapy water; it’s as effective as using an insecticide. Mealybugs form cottony blobs, especially on African violets and succulents. Remove with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol. Scale insects can only be eradicated by a systemic insecticide rated for household use—Di-syston. Their egg stage is covered with a waxy shell causing difficulty in eradicating them. In their crawling stage they suck plant juices. Repeat treatment with systemic every six weeks. A systemic insecticide can also be used for aphids. They are small, puffy creatures, which come in many colors. They cling along a stem and under leaves, excreting a sticky substance. ) To keep your plants healthy throughout the winter, keep a close watch. Learn what to expect from the plants you grow, know their basic requirements and treat them well. COMMON PROBLEMS. Remember that each plant may show a slightly different reaction but the following guide may help you diagnose some of the common problems: Burned appearing margins or browned tips Soft, blackish leaves Mold on surface Wilting Sudden loss of leaves Yellowing lower leaves — Over fertilizing, hot and dry dry air, uneven watering patterns. — Over-watering Over-watering; poor air circulation, potting in unsterilized soil Over-watering, underwatering, excessive fertilizer. Exposure to cold; in hot or cold draft. Changes in light levels or even being turned around to face light differently will cause loss of leaves. Ficus family especially affected. In tree-type plants such as dieffenbachia, this often occurs as the plant grows tall. Overall yellowing Small stunted leaves-long stems between leaf axils White, powdery growth on leaves Lack of regular fertilizing is sometimes the cause. Poor humidity or uneven watering habits. The plant may be in need of repotting. Advanced over-watering and root rot. Often occurs in planters without drainage holes. Too little light along with over-fertilizing in decreased light. Good air circulation and removing damaged leaves will help. Keep foliage dry. Begonias are prime targets to this mildew. You may need Benlatc fungicide. Happy Gardening! SLOVENIANS! STAND, AND BE COUNTED! Dear Fellow Slovenes, For the past two years I have been researching Slovene Americans and have encountered the same problem time after time. No source gives an accurate accounting of our group. The reason lies in the fact that Slovenians have been misclassified ever since the first Slovenian immigrant set foot on American soil. American officials called them Austrians, Hungarians, Germans or Slovaks. In 1970, the government attempted to count the number of people belonging to the various ethnic groups in the National Census by asking the language spoken at home during childhood. From this information Slovenians were inaccurately listed as Serbo Croatian, Polish, Slovak or “Other Balto-Slavonic.” In 1980 the National Census again tried to classify persons on the basis of national origin but the question was posed differently. People were asked if they were of “single ancestry” or “multiple ancestry.” “Single ancestry” denotes that both parents were of the same ethnic group. For example, they were both Slovenian. “Multiple ancestry” indicates that each parent belonged to a different ethnic group or groups. One could be Slovenian and the other Polish, etc. No formal study has been done of the 1980 data but it appears to again misclassify and undercount Slovenians. In 1990 the National Census will again be conducted. This is an excellent opportunity for all those of Slovenian heritage to stand up and be counted. We are concerned with reporting our national origin or descent as Slovenian and not Yugoslav, Serbo-Croatian, Slavic or Slovak. Please share this information with your friends and acquaintances. Živio, Dr. Sylvia O’Kicki NO. 20, JOLIET, IL And what were you doing the night the earth shook in San Francisco?? Getting ready to watch the world series?-instantaneous coverage left little to be imagined. Branch 20 was in meeting and it was at least two hours later that we became aware of what had happneed, when, upon returning home, turned on the TV and were stunned at what we saw. We deeply regret any misfortune that may have occurred to you, your family or friends and extend great hopes and prayers for full and fast recovery. We have a few members who have not been able to enjoy the Indian Summer like days we have been having because of ill health. Some are ill at home and others are recovering from recent surgery; remember them in your prayers. Return to good health to: Josephine Muster, Margaret Pol-niasek, Evelyn Gregory, Marla Mae Allen and Carol Doczak. To Jennie Kochevar, we extend sincere sympathy on the death of her husband, Tony. Congratulations to the bride and groom, Mary and Robert Robinette, who were recently married--the bride is the daughter of Loretta Fuchs. The Nominating Committee presented the slate of officers to be voted on for the coming year-we’ll report the results of the election in the next issue. Christmas Season is upon us once again, funny how it happens every year around this time!! Our Christmas party will take place on Dec. 17, at D’Amico’s. Cocktails at 11:30 a.m. Dinner at 12 noon. The charge will be $14.00, which includes tax and tip. There will be entertainment, cash bar, but no gift exchange. We will be served family style; if you’ve eaten there, you already know how delicious the food is and what a lovely setting it is. Make your reservations with Diane Kalcic who is in charge. Bring along a guest or two, we’ll all have a great time. With Christmas in mind, have you seen the new series of Slovenian Christmas cards available at the Home Office? The new design was done by Lucille Dragovan; it is lovely. They are available in red and green; $1.00 per card or 6 for $5.00. The face of the card has a Slovenian motif and the sentiment inside is in English. We have lots of other Slovenian Heritage articles for sale also; T-shirts — now with the Slovenian Woman’s Union logo along with "it’s in every sLOVE-nian”, Pots and Pans Cookbooks, Music; records, 8-track and cassettes, books; historical, grammar, dictionaries, poetry and even note paper and envelopes. Maybe you can in- elude one or more items in your Christmas list. This year, again, the Joliet American Legion Band will present a Christmas Concert which will take place the afternoon of our Christmas Party, Dec. 17, at the Rialto Theatre. The admission is the donation of canned goods. These canned goods will then be used to stock the Joliet Food Pantry, who, in turn, will present the foods to those in need. The Food Pantry has been in existence for several years, is non-denominational, includes the generosity of many people and organizations working together to lend a helping hand. The number of needy has increased tremendously and the cupboards are bare. Maybe you would like to "make it a day” on Dec. 17, and attend the concert also, which you will thoroughly enjoy, or stop by just to donate a bag of canned goods. Our next meeting will be held on Sunday, Jan. 21, 1990, at I p.m., at which time we will have installation of officers. Hope you have your Advent Wreath all set for Dec. 3, the first Sunday of Advent, and don’t forget St. Nicholas on Dec. 6. Hope I don’t find any coal in my bowl, 1 think 1 was a good kid. Have a happy holiday season and the best New Year. HELEN PLUT NO. 22, BRADLEY, IL WELCOME to a new member! Anne Smole Zorbas of Melrose, MA had attended the September Slovenian picnic and decided she should be associated with the branch her mother had founded in 1928. Anne is a native of Bradley, was in service during WWII when she met Arthur Zorbas, married and settled in the East. Now widowed and her family grown, Anne is retracing her steps, joining her sisters Rose Barothy and the late Marie Vandenhout as members. We are sure their mother in heaven is as pleased as we are! Our October 17 meeting was unusual in that our eyes were stealing glances at the TV to see the damage the SF quake had wrought while our ears were tuning in on the affairs at hand. Our Christmas dinner will be at Davidson’s Rt. 17W (in the countryside), weather permitting, on the second Sunday of December. Also, we thought it fitting at this time to make a donation to the Baraga Association. Our thanks to Mollie McIntyre and Mayme Drassler for the great time. Had a nice conversation with Anthony Jamnik, cousin to member Anne Richards, about his recent trip to Slovenia. To Tony, the highlight was to see the homes in Boršt where his parents were bom. A school teacher-cousin, serving as interpreter and guide for him and his brother Elmer of Joliet, had made earlier contacts with relatives in Boršt (via the only phone in this village of 12 houses), informing them of the day and time the Americans would arrive. The road to the village was primitive indeed but the welcome the Jamniks received was overwhelming. Everything had been prepared for them. Tony was thrilled to literally touch his late parents through the experience of clasping hands with these village folk, to view the river his mother talked about as the place where she washed clothes. He came across names that are familiar in Bradley--Stefanich, Starasinich and Krizan. Travel is truly a priceless education! Christmas is here! May each of you possess this Feast’s gifts of Peace and Joy, now and forever!! EMMA LUSTIG NO. 23, ELY, MN Pres. Anne Sarri opened the meeting with prayers for ill and deceased members. Mary Skufsca read a verse "Don't let failures hold you down." Sec’y Chris Cadari gave a report of last month’s meeting. Treas. Helen Stukel gave her report. Next year’s Jugoslav Day Picnic at Chisholm, MN was discussed. They would like volunteers to work at SWU booth. Also would like baked goods, crafts, and hope a lot of members and friends attend. It will be held in July ’90. Our branch thought number of delegates should be larger for us, as we have a larger membership than others. Hope this gets passed. Our parish had a visiting priest from Pa. Had a Saturday evening Mass. KSKJ Lodges in Ely invited people to attend and also served coffee and after mass in church hall. Mass was well-attended and we all thought his sermon was very interesting. Anne Sarri would like members to look if they have any old pictures or articles to do with SWU that you can bring to her. Katherine Merhar on sick list. Hope she’s feeling much better. Am sure her volunteer piano playing is missed. Anne Sarri read article about Centennial next year. Thought our branch should have our own project. Something to think about. 36 members were present. Kris Garni won the door prize. Lunch committee: Kris Garni, Fran Zavodnik, Dorothy Popesh, Ann Stupnik, Julie Russ. Served dessert and nice Halloween decorations were on table. Guest was Anne Grahek from Florida. “B" played. Dawn Club “Alternating Gardens" read by Pres. Angela Mobilia. Secy. D. Popesh read May Minutes, as no meeting in Aug. or Sept. Treas. Sally Davidson gave report. All bills for dinner were paid. Lunch committee: Helen Strukel, Chris Cadari, Dorothy Popesh, Fran Pengal and Ann Stupnik. 28 members present. No new business. Coffee and donuts served. D. Popesh won door prize. “B". Still enjoying our Lovely Indian Summer and beautiful colored forests. Hope it lasts until Halloween. Have a painted pumpkin on my front porch. A real one, bought at a roadside stand. All passerbys stop and look and comment. A joyful Holiday Season! KRIS GARNI NO. 24, LA SALLE, IL We had a nice attenance at our October meeting and a very enjoyable evening. Delegate Jo Foley was unable to attend the meeting but she wrote a very good report on the State Convention and it was read by Alternate Agnes Ostrowski, who added some of her own observations. They commented on the wonderful hospitality ol Br. 2 and said they had a great time. There was no report on the Fall Project as Treasurer, Anna Serri was out of town. We hope all members will participate. Two members will receive 50 year membership pins this year. Olga Fritz was present at the meeting to receive hers and her aunt, Antonia Jakse, who is confined to her home will receive hers too. Apple strudel and apple cider were served after the meeting. I neglected to mention that Betty Stack’s son, Tom, presented the program at our September meeting. He told us of his recent trip to Germany MINUTES FROM THE OHIO-MICHIGAN STATE CONVENTION Oct. 1st 1989, Euclid, Ohio Mass was held at St. Christine's Church, conceleb-rated by our own Bishop Edward Pevec, assisted by Fr. Francis Sterk, Pastor of St. Christine Church on Oct. 1st at 12:00 noon. Cadets from Br. 50 and Honor Guards of Br. 32 marched in, followed by members of branches. The offertory was presented by Pres., of Br. 32 Dorothy Lamm and Reg. Pres., Ann Tercek. The Choir was beautiful. Meeting opened with prayer in church gym at 1:20 p.m. followed with the memoriam for the deceased members of all branches of Zveza with Cadets, and the Honor Guards assisting. There were 9 branches present and 1 18 total present. Br. 40, Lorain, OH, Br. 68, Fairport, and 105, Detroit, MI came. Glad to see you. Branch reports were brief, Br. 42 & 47 were not present, they sent cards. Combined Branch Vice Pres. Lavona Avitt read letters from Tory Bobence and Corinne Leskovar. Ann Tercek spoke on articles for ZARJA and encourages selling cook books Pots and Pans to help defray National Convention expenses for delegates. Chairlady of National Convention to be held on May 17, 18, 19, 1991 is Evelyn Majercik from Br. 73, War-rensville Hts., gave her report. Plans are still sketchy but the most important dates are set, such as Hotel, Dinner, and Mass on Sunday. Meeting adjourned at 3:05 p.m. followed by a sit down dinner catered by Mary Ster and her wonderful crew, with a short program following with singers, Doug and his wonderful wife Barbara Elersich from ZARJA Singing Society. It was just beautiful. Our State Representative Ron. Sustar made a short speech also, as a guest speaker. Dancing followed with music by Chuck Krivec and his Band. Respectfully submitted by Josephine Comenshek, Rec. Sec’y ■I CHRISTMAS PARTIES & ANNUAL MEETINGS Dec. 2 - Br. 2, Chicago, IL, Juniors Dec. 2 - Br. 56, Hibbing, MN Dec. 3 - Br. 2, Chicago, IL, Advent Tea Dec. 3 - Br. 47, Garfield Hts., OH Dec. 6 - Br. 38, Chisholm, MN Dec. 6 - Br.52, Kitzville,MN Dec. 9 - Br. 1, Sheboygan, WI Dec. 9 - Br. 105, Detroit, MI Dec. 10 - Br. 22, Bradley, IL Dec. 12 - Br. 40, Lorain, OH Dec. 12 - Br. 42, Maple Hts., OH Dec. 12 - Br. 57, Niles, OH Dec. 12 - Br. 91, Oakmont, PA Dec. 12 - Br. 95, So. Chicago, IL Dec. 14 - Br. 16, So. Chicago, IL Dec. 15 - Br. 2, Chicago, IL Dec. 17 - Br. 17, West Allis, WI Dec. 17 - Br. 20, Joliet, IL Dec. 20 - Br. 54, Warren, OH Dec. 21 - Br. 12, Milwaukee, WI Dec. 27 - Br. 43, Milwaukee, WI Jan. 17 - Br. 10, Cleveland, OH and Austria and had a large collection of pictures which he took and passed those around for all to see. Tom is a freshman at Illinois Valley Community College and was recently awarded the Sam Me Cartney History Scholarship Grant. The members enjoyed Tom’s talk and Betty’s Apple Cake which she served afterwards. Congratulations to Theresa Wellner and husband, Henry who recently celebrated their 35th wedding anniversary. Plans for the Christmas Party will be made at the November meeting so watch the local paper and church bulletins for details. Plan to join us-we always have a good time at these special outings. We won’t meet until March so I’d like to wish each and everyone of you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy, Healthy New Year. ANNE M. WANGLER, Reporter NO. 32, EUCLID, OH Thanks to all the members who came to our St. Christine's church for the celebration in October, that took place before the meeting. It was a Mass for all our living and departed members. We had a very nice attendance for the event. Pres. Dorothy Lamm opened the meeting and prayers were led by our vice-pres., Ceal Znidar. Veronica Dalton read two poems: "Do you remember things” and “Once upon a time." Veronica really expresses herself very well when she reads these poems. Discussion at the meeting was about the 60th anniversary and State Convention. A lot of hard work and time was put into this affair by all the committees and members who helped. Br. 32 thanks you all and all the branches , and members who attended the Mass, the meeting and the dinner-dance. Thanks to everyone who sent us congratulations on the 60th anniversary. There were many good wishes sent. To everyone who helped in any way for this affair, a BIG THANK YOU TO ALL! Vicky Holny’s granddaughter Terri Sullain, presented her with a great grandson, Robert. Congratulations to all and hope that you are all doing well. Members who have been doing some traveling are Hermine Strainer to France, Belgium, Spain and Canada; traveling with Fr. James Roach of St. Christine’s to Rome, Italy were Mary Drobnick, Lavona Avitt, Alma Eppick and Mary Zakrajšek. Hope everyone had a wonderful time on their trips - very educational. CADETS AND HONOR GUARDS TOOK PART IN THE ANNIVERSARY MASS AT ST. CHRISTINE’S. 60th Anniversary of Br. 32, Euclid, Ohio Ohio-Michigan State Convention October I, 1989 Mass at noon at St. Christine’s Church, concelebrated by our own Bishop A. Edward Pevec, assisted by Father Francis Sterk, Pastor of St. Christine's Euclid, Ohio. Lector Lavona Avitt, Eucharistic Ministers, Dorothy Ulepic and Alma Eppick. Cadets from Branch 50, marched up first followed by our 4 honor guards, Mary Drobnick, Ann Urban, Frances Ogoreuc and Valerie Traska. Pres. Dorothy Lamm and Regional Pres. Ann Tercek took up the Offertory. After Mass, Orange Juice, Coffee and Danish was served in the Gym. Father Francis Sterk welcomed the ladies. Ann Tercek conducted the meeting of the combined branches. Cadets and our honor guards marched down and lit candles for the deceased members. Pledge of Allegiance was said. Representatives from Branches 10 - 14 - 15-21 -25 - 32 - 40 Lorain, Ohio 50 - 58 - 73 Warrensville, Ohio and 105 Detroit, Michigan read their reports of activities they did during the past year. The Branches that could not attend, sent letters. Vice Pres, of the Combined Branches, Lavona Avitt and Corresponding Sec’y, Josephine Comenshek spoke. After the meeting at 3:30 p.m. the ladies went to the Lower School Hall at St. Christine’s for dinner, cooked by Mary Ster. 209 Dinners were served. Father Sterk gave the blessing before the meal. Pres. Dorothy Lamm gave a short history of Branch 32. It was organized on August 25th, 1929 at St. Christine's by 20 ladies. We have I living charter member, Caroline Kaliope. Our Twirlettes were unable to attend. Regional Pres. Ann Tercek welcomed everyone. Barbara and Doug Elersich lead us in singing the National Anthem and Slovenian Anthem. At the Main table were Pres. Dorothy Lamm and her husband; Father Sterk; Ann Tercek and her husband; Ron Suster and his wife, Pat; Alma Eppick, and Lavona Avitt. There were 3 Musical selections from Barbara and Doug Elersich. Ron Suster, our Ohio State Representative, spoke. Pres. Dorothy Lamm introduced her officers of Branch 32, Vice Pres. Ceai Znidar, Treasurer Ann Cooke, Financial Sec’y Josephine Comenshek, Recording Sec’y Rose Hahn. Historian Mary Drobnick, Sargeant-at-Arms Caroline Lokar, Auditors Lavona Avitt and Josephine Skabar. Corsages and Floral arrangements were by Karen Mansi, artwork by Anna Brown. There were tickets sold for a $60.00 Money tree and Stan Laurich won it. Margaret Sas and Mary Zakrajšek sold the tickets. There were 2 bottles of wine on each table (donated by Lavona Avitt, Alma Eppich, Hermine Strainer and Dorothy Lamm). The ladies at each table started counting and #3 and #6 won them. Dancing followed with music by Chuck Krivec and his band. Helen Kovačevič and Jean McNulty took care of the Guest Book. Vicky Holny, Veronica Dalton and Rose Brancely served the punch. Rose Hahn, Recording Sec'y too. Caroline Lokar is going to Salem, North Carolina with daughter and sister for her grandson's birthday. Caroline will be attending her first real live football game to see the Browns with her son and this will be a treat for her. To all our sick members, a speedy recovery. Hope that good health will be with you soon. Happy Birthday to all this month, especially to Mary Zakrajšek and Betty Perme who were at the meeting. Thanks to our hostesses Agnes Ward and Jo Koss for the refreshments they served: apple cider, tea, coffee, doughnuts and Halloween candy to celebrate Halloween. We played games after the party. We planned elections for the November meeting and in December will have our Christmas party. Please try to attend the meetings. FRANCES OGOREUC TIMELESS Old friends, I’ve heard it said, are best, Which seems unfair to all the rest. For instance, friends I’ve met just now And all these years have missed somehow. I couldn’t help it, nor could they, We didn’t meet until today. Friends old or new I find so great I never check the starting date. Submitted by Vera Šebenik REPORT OF THE REGIONAL MEETING _ IN MINNESOTA Couple dressed in Slovenian costumes took part in the celebration of Minnesota Day and State Convention held in Duluth. They are Sharon Bucar and Joe Zupancich seen here with Nat'l Vice-Pres. Cirila Kermavner of Cleveland. The guests at Minnesota Zveza Day enjoyed hearing the main speaker, U.S. Congressman Jim Oberstar. Kr. Stanley Dolsina officiated at Mass that began the day’s proceedings. The Minnesota Regional Convention, which was on Sept. 10, 1989 was held in Duluth, MN. The meeting was opened by all singing “Our Home” and prayer was led by Joe Zupančič in Slovenian. Meeting was called to order by Emily Skull. Introduction of our National Vice President, Cirila Kermavner and also a letter was read from our National President, Tory Bobence. She could not be here because of another commitment. We had roll call of Branches of which 12 attended. Minutes of the last meeting were read and approved. It was decided that we should keep a record of all expenditures. A Slovenian Flag and banner will be made for next year’s convention. It was brought up by one of the members how we can get our Junior Members interested in attending meetings and participating. This was tabled until the next convention, where they can come up with ideas. Plans were made to have a booth at the All Slav Picnic, being held in Chisholm, July 22, 1990. All branches are to particiapte. Cirila Kermavner spoke on the importance of keeping the Slovenian Women’s Union active. It is up to all of us on how active we all are. Next Regional Convention to be held in Tower, MN. Meeting adjourned. The Mass was held in St. Elizabeth Church. It opened with a procession, Joe Zupančič carrying the Slovenian Flag and placing it on the altar. The Celebrants were, Fathers Stanley Dolsina, Rudolph Faith and John Golobich. Slovenian hymns were sung by the KSKJ chorus. After mass, we all went downstairs to the Church hall for a delicious dinner. We opened our program. Cyrilla Collard, our Mistress of Ceremonies introduced our Mayor, John Fedo. He gave a welcoming address. Our Regional President spoke on keeping our heritage and pushing the Slovenian Women’s Union to all the people. Cirila Kermavner was introduced; she said a few words in Slovenian. Our guest speaker was Congressman Janies Oberstar. He gave a beautiful speech on the heritage, culture, arts and music of Slovenians. Mother of the Year was recognized and gifts were given, being that it is Br. 33's 60th anniversary, the relatives of the Charter Members were asked to stand. We also had an introduction of one of our SO year members, Elizabeth Smolnikar. Father Stanley Dolsina gave the benediction. We also had entertainment. The KSKJ singers sang a few songs. Father and daughters played the ac-cordians, Frank Bucar and Barb and Brenda. Also accordian was played by Krista Smolnikar. Drawing of many door prizes. I wish to thank all of the ladies of Branch 33 for such a wonderful job, well done. Without all of you, this convention wouldn’t have been a success. Hvala lepa!! Emily Skull, Regional President of Minnesota NO. 34, SOUDAN, MN CELEBRATES 60! Branch 34, Tower-Soudan, MN celebrated their 60th anniversary on Wednesday, October 18, at 5:30 p.m. at St. Martin’s Catholic Church. The celebration began with an Ethnic Mass with Fr. Gerald LaPatka as celebrant. Tom and Tony Poderzay accompanied the singing of the hymns on their accordions. Flowers at the altar were pots of geraniums, provided by Fred Pahula of Soudan. Fred was a recipient of one of the first scholarships given by the SWU and is also the son of Mary Pahula, who had served as secretary-treasurer of our local branch for over 50 years. Participating in the Offertory Procession were our National President, Victoria Bobence; Mary Gomick of Tower, our charter member and Sr. Boniface Dragavon, who was present at the first meeting of r>"r branch nn rwrihor ^ IQ29, and named our reporter. Sister was May me Dragavon at the time, and entered the Order of St. Benedict in Duluth also in 1929. These ladies were each presented with a carnation corsage. I was the lector during Mass, which included special prayers for our members and our founders, both national and local. After Mass, we had a dinner served in the parish hall. The ham dinner was prepared by our members and it was delicious. An anniversary cake was also enjoyed. Following the dinner, a short history of our branch, written by me, was presented, this history will be sent to the national office as our contribution to the histories of all the branches that is being made up. Our history was translated by Sophie Spollar in 1979, and I just added to the history since then, so we give Sophie a thank you for her help at that time. Mary Pahula kept a beautiful secretarial book so we do have things written down for most of the years, some years we did not. Special guests that evening were ladies who had once belonged to the SWU and we enjoyed having them with us. Those who were able to attend were Margaret Erchul, Molly Morcom, Kay Vaida and Vida Popesh. Others invited but were unable to attend were Kay Berglund, Helen Klun, Pauline Erchul, Ann Spollar, and Catherine Cvetan. Betty Spreitzer Murphy of Duluth graciously gave Sr. Boniface a ride to the “Range” — she is a former member of Br. 34 but has membership in Duluth now. Helen Dragavon ofMt. Iron, a sister of Sr. Boniface, also was a guest. Emily Skul, Regional President, sent a message of congratulations and informed us that she was unable to attend because of her health. Victoria Bobence, National President, was asked to say a few words during the program. Our members were thanked for their wonderful cooperation in preparing the food. The table decorations were done by Emma Betourne, who used a blue and white motif, with blue candles and napkins, with bouquets of mums from Helen Adkisson’s garden. Our members decided that this celebration would be our “Founder’s Day" so in November we would just have our regular meeting on Wednesday, November 15, with Lorraine Berg and Angeline Grahek as hostesses, the door prize provided by Adeline Mustonen. Those winning prizes donated by Emma Betourne which were lovely prisms were: Adeline Mustonen, Agnes Tekautz and Helen Chiabotti. The door prize brought by Angeline Morin was won by Victoria Bobence. I think we all agreed that we had a most enjoyable anniversary. I wish you all a most blessed Christmas and many blessings in the New Year 1990! Adeline Mustonen .........................................................• •IIMMMIHMMIHIIIHIHIIMIIIII nillHIIIHII(l)IIMIIIHIMHIIHIIHHUIHHIMHIHHmMHHIIIHMIMHHHHIIMIIIIHMIMMHHMMHIMIIIIIM|ll|l||M|MMHH •„*. «"* •- V. L GRAPE FESTIVAL IN AURORA IS AN ANNUAL EVENT! The citizens of Aurora, Minnesota look forward each year to the Slovenian presentation of the Grape Festival, or Vinska Trgatev. A story by Anne Orazem tells us more about it. On this photo are some of the participants, left to right: Betty Orazem, Matt Anzelc, Anna Rose Smolich, Katherine Hanka, Anita Vovk (our LEARN SLOVENIAN co-author), Louis Turk, Mary Kaski, Olga Berdice, Tony and Anne Orazem, Dorothy Jamnik, Al Korochec, Martha Gunderson and in the front, Mary Nosan. Looks like they had fun! (Photo courtesy MKSABI DAILY NEWS) NO. 38, CHISHOLM, MN Hello from Chisholm, Minnesota. Just to let you know about our weather — we had 80 degrees on Sunday, Oct. 1st, and — snow flurries on Monday, Oct. 2nd! Any place in the nation who can beat that? Our meeting was on Wednesday, Oct. 4th...a rather nice day. Some of our members attended the “Ice Capades” in Duluth, but we had 15 at our meeting and we did our best. We wish to thank Peregrina Hod-nick of Buhl for her monetary contribution to Br. 38. She cannot attend our meetings, but wishes to help our branch. Your help is greatly appreciated! Our Beef Goulash Luncheon and Bake Sale took place on Thursday, Nov. 2nd, from 11:00 to 3:00 p.m. Hopefully, ALL members took part in this endeavor. We planned to have a game with home-made delicacies for prizes, thanks to Rose Niemi, Jennie Samsa, Fran Zalec, and Jo Zupuncich, who were also involved in cooking, serving, etc. at the luncheon. A million thanks to all members who contributed delicious home-made baked goods for this money-making project. Branch 38 is blessed with so many wonderful members who are so very generous with their time and talents! We had two volunteers for the nominating committee: Rose Faras and Norma Salvini. Please accept a nomination if you are contacted. We are making tentative plans for the Christmas party. The date is December 6th. The exact time, place, and cost will be worked out by the Nov. 1st meeting. Our condolences to Bill Zallar who$e wife, SWU member Tena Zallar, died last week. We had one birthday in October, Anne Polichnik. The travelling prize went to Fran Verant. Drawing prizes to Norma Salvini, Fran Techar, Teresa Gerzin. LUNCHEON AND BAKE SALE NEWS!!! We had a most successful day! The goulash and žgance luncheon was delicious. And the luscious desserts!!! Every kind of pie, strudels, cakes, bars, also noodles, poticas, etc. etc. The bake sale couldn't have been better. Anne Polichnik was the chairperson for the bake sale. And the many people who came made us all so happy. It was a very snowy day, but everyone around this area knows of the cooking prowess of Jennie Samsa and her crew, so a little snow did not stop them from coming! I would like to name those who worked so hard to make this such a wonderful day. Besides Jennie Samsa there were the following: Fran Zalec, Jo Zupan-cich, Florence Fryckman, Carmen Cardini, Rose Niemi, Charlotte Laurich, Mildred Bashel, Jennie Briski, Anne Polichnik, and Edith Dolinar. Ann Walach, Shirley Nosan, and Ann Techar handled the money. I hope I have not missed anyone. If 1 did, please advise me and I’ll rectify the matter. All these women worked so hard, before and after! And they wish to thank all members who contributed to the bake sale. This is what we call COOPERATION!! Our first snow fall with icy street's, but our members showed up and enjoyed a lively meeting and the they stayed to set up tables for the luncheon and bake sale, an event of the following day, Nov. 2. At the meeting, correspondence was read concerning the campaign to enroll new members. An excellent Christmas gift idea -- enroll someone by paying for 1 or 2 years dues. That's a good idea - very practical...and helpful to the recipient, and to the SWU!! The date of our Christmas party is tentatively set for Wednesday, Dec. 6 at Valentini's Supper Club. Members want to wrap up gifts and present them to the nursing homes to be used for games, prizes at Christmas. Member Frances Setina celebrated her 101st birthday on November 6th, so our president was to present her with a carnation arrangement as a Happy Birthday wish from Branch 38. Jennie Samsa reminded us to begin planning for our 60th Anniversary which is this spring. A committee will begin working on this big celebration. Suggestions are welcome! Only one member has a November birthday, other than Mrs. Setina...Ann Walach. And the travelling prize was won by Rose Niemi. After this meeting, the members set all the tables for which the officers thank you sincerely. The next meeting is the Christmas party, Dec. 6th. Be seeing you. ANN NUSICH, Reporter The officers wish all of you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. NO. 40, LORAIN, OH Agnes, our Pres., brought our meeting to order with prayer. Glad to see 18 members come and help us plan our holiday festivities. Our Genevieve Wenzel who is back from a visit with her son and family in Colorado, was awarded the door prize. Welcome back, we missed you. After our reports were read, our Pres, gave us a report on the Ohio-Mich. Convention. The “hosts” this year were members of Br. 32, Euclid, Ohio. They were celebrating their 60th anniversary in conjunction with this event. Our lodge was well-represented with Agnes Tomazine, Agatha Donges, Mary Ferlic, Fran-cine Pavlovčič and myself. We also caught a glimpse of Milo Uehlein and daughter, Lainie, at the dinner following the convention meeting. We completed plans for our Christmas dinner. It will be on Tuesday, Dec. 12th at 5:30 p.m. at the German Villa in Vermilion, Ohio. Please make your reservations by called 245-3919. As I mentioned in a previous issue we ANOTHER REASON TO BE PROUD Elaine Drstvensek Edgar earned her Ph.D. degree from The Ohio State University on June 9, 1989 in Family Relations and Human Development from the College of Home Economics. She is a 1972 Admiral King High School graduate. She completed her B.S. in Home Economics, Education from Bowling Green State University in 1976 and her M.S. degree in Family Relations and Human Development from The Ohio State University in 1978. Dr. Elaine Edgar While completing her doctorate degree at Ohio State, she worked for the Provost for Evaluation in the Office of Academic Affairs. Dr. Elaine Edgar's research area is gerontology and she studied widows between the ages of 65 - 98 years old. Her dissertation is entitled “Factors Which Impact on Older Widow's Loneliness: A Comparison of Childless Widows and Widows with Children.” Dr. Edgar recently accepted a new position as Administrator, Program Authorization with the Ohio Board of Regents in Columbus, Ohio, where she and her husband. Paul R. Edgar, an attorney, reside. Elaine's proud parents are John and Agnes (nee Tomazin) Drstvensek of Lorain, Ohio. Agnes is a 50 year plus member of Branch 40. She is a charter member of the Drill Team and served as a reporter for the ZARJA for many years. Elaine's material grandmother, Agnes Tomazin, was a charter member of Branch 40 and her paternal grandmother, Mary Drstvensek, was a long time member of the Johnstown, Pennsylvania Branch. Their other child, John, is an Emergency Room Doctor at Mount Carmel Hospital East in Columbus, Ohio. He is also the Director of The Emergency Room at Mount Carmel. Just recently, he was appointed as the State Director of Emergency Room Medicine of the State of Ohio. He also resides in Powell, Ohio with his wife, Bridget, and their two sons, Kurt and Joseph. will have a photographer come to take a group picture. So, come on and let’s make a good showing. Our birthday girls who brought refreshments and prizes were: Alice Rutar,Agnes Mroski, Agnes Tomazine. Our Mary Ploszaj who has been ill for some time also had a birthday in October and she still remembers to celebrate with us by sending us gifts for our raffle. Others who made donations were Rose Jancar, Sophie Pogacherand Agatha Donges. Thanks to all of you. Mr. & Mrs. Joseph F. Glavan of Amherst, Ohio announce the engagement of their daughter. Dawn Marie to David J. Skalarek. They plan a June 30, 1990 wedding. If you recall, Dawn Marie was pictured on the cover page of the May, 1982 issue of ZARJA. That was the year her grandma, Molly Glavan was our Mother of the Year. Dawn was also picked as a princess to represent the Slovenian nationality at the International Festival in Lorain in 1986. Grandma, Sophie Pogacher handed me this clipping telling about her grandson, Mark Pogacher, a sophomore at Lorain Catholic, who is on the soccer team, had a “hat trick" against Mansfield Madison and two more goals and an assist against Southview recently. The Lorain Catholic Soccer team advance to AA-A sectional semi-finals with a 3-2 come-from-behind overtime victory over Open Door recently. Mark provided the extra point for a game winner. Congratulations to all. Molly handed me this poem, too. It reads: Recipe for a New Day Cream a little tolerance With each thought today. Whip that smile into a laugh. And fold in tenderly. Add lots of soothing syrup, A little foolishness, Garnish well with hits of love, Ser\'e warm with thoughtfulness. Hope to see you at our Christmas Dinner on Dec. 12th. Wishes to all for a Merry Christmas. MARY MATOS NO. 42, MAPLE HTS., OH Hello Ladies! Another year has passed and. again, it went too fast! We've just celebrated Thanksgiving which was a time to prayerfully give thanks to God for all the blessings he has bestowed on us throughout the year. And now that we are nearing Christmas, we reflect on the love we have shared with our friends and family. We pray now to the Christ Child to watch and protect us always. The Vinska Trgatev Bake Sale on October 1st was a huge success. As part of the festivity, our chairperson, Ann Perko, along with Anne Keglovic and Helen Prudic were featured on that evening's Channel 43 news! Special thanks to those gals and to Vida Ver-cek who worked the bake sale throughout the day. Also thanks to Marge Lipnos and Niki Lerchbacher. Many ladies contributed baked goods and donations which accounted for the best bake sale Branch 42 ever had. Special acknowledgement to Olga Ponikvar for her creative hand-crafted items which were also sold at our table. They were beautifully done and we appreciate her contributions. Congratulations and thank you ladies! At our October meeting, we made plans for a Christmas Tour of various places decorated for the Holidays as well as a Christmas lunch at the Winesburg Inn, Clyde, Ohio on November 13th. We also discussed plans for our 60th Anniversary which will be in May of 1990. There will be a lot of details to cover and hope you will assist when called upon. After the meeting, we celebrated halloween with (what else?) cider and donuts; and the table decoration, a ceramic pumpkin planter, was won by Ann Perko. Incidentally, ladies, it is so nice of you to bring those beautifully wrapped gifts to the meetings to be used as giveaways during our social hour. Thank you. It makes the meetings extra special. At our November meeting, we finalized our Christmas dinner arrangements. Ivanhoe Caterers will serve dinner at 7:00 p.m. (come early for a mini-cocktail hour) on Tuesday, December 12th at the Maple Heights Slovenian National Home. All reservations must be made no later than Tuesday, December 5th. Cost is $4.50 for members, $8.50 for spouse or guest. Call Marge Church 467-0696 and leave a message, or call Millie Lipnos at 662-2252 or 662-9731. We will have a $3.00 gift exchange if you wish to bring a gift. There will also be a game for three (or more) beautiful prizes, proceeds of which will go to one of our charities as designated by the membership. All members were reminded to clear up their dues for 1989 and that dues for 1990 are now due. Happy Birthday and best wishes to members who are celebrating their birthdays in December and January. December: Donna Stubljer, Julia Lipnos, Beth Harr, Mary Yemec, Ellie Lipnos, Yong Hui Shega, Jennifer Lockard, Fran Wenckus, Susan Shega, Frances Zakrajšek, Marge Church and Chris Hajek. January: Kelly Gaines, Elizabeth Shega, Leigh Ann Buchner, Pat Wenckus, Karen Lockard, and Camille Lao. I have not heard from those who have been travelling lately, but a few did not escape me. We failed to mention our summertime traveller, Mary Lou Phrne who visited her cousin, Louise Toth, in California. Together they toured parts of southern California, Yosemite National Park and Las Vegas. Mary Lou reported she had a wonderful and exciting vacation. Lil Sadowski and Frances Tomsic spent a couple of weeks in Canada around the first of October. I don’t know if they went fishing or hunting, but I’m sure the fall color was beautiful. Lou and Mitzi Champa spent a few days in Atlantic City and Olga and Bill Ponikvar spent a couple of weeks in Boston visiting their son Ron and his family. Get well wishes to Mary Fink, Fran Wenckus, Betty Kosak and our friend from branch 73, Alouise Epley. May you all feel better and recover quickly. We send our love and prayers. During the holidays, please remember our shut-ins with cards or visits. Over the past three years, Jamie Wilk has developed into being quite an equestrian and during the last weekend in October, she won first place in all categories of jumping. This is quite an accomplishment and we commend her on her skills and talent. Donna Wilk’s son, Chris, was recently hired as assistant hockey coach at St. Ignatius. Congratulations Chris, and much success to you and your team! For the past 55 years, Mitzi and Lou Champa have been married...to each other! They celebrated with an Anniversary Mass at St. Weneeslas on November 5th. We wish you continued happiness for many more years together. Well, that wraps it up for this month. Merry Christmas to the members who live in other parts of our beautiful country. We think of you. As for the rest, I hope to see you soon. May the peace that is Christmas, the hope that is Christmas, and the love that is Christmas be yours! MARGE CHURCH NO. 43, MILWAUKEE, WI The October meeting was a surprise as the National President, Tory Bo-bence and Vice President, Cirila Kermavner were our guests. Indeed it was a great surprise, but it would have been better if we knew they were coming. The meeting opened with prayer by our president, Sandy, roll call of officers, last month’s minutes were read, secretary's report and treasurer’s reports given. All were approved as read. The National President, Tory spoke on membership and a few other items, Cirila, the National Vice-Pres-ident also spoke on membership. The Card Party was discussed and finalized. The November meeting was changed from November 22 to (he 29th. The Christmas luncheon was discussed. It will be held on Wednesday, December 27th 1989 at 12:30 p.m. at Old Country Buffet, 4902 So. 74th St. Please call in your reservation at your earliest convenience, 481-7357. Congratulations to Michael Widemsek and his fiance Marilyn. Michael is the son of Frank and Louise' Widemsek of West Milwaukee and Marilyn from Pittsburgh, Pa. They were married on October 7th. It was a beautiful outdoor ceremony in Me-quon. She had four of her girlfriends as bridesmaids and their honeymoon was spent in Mexico. We have several sick members, namely Mary Pugel, Olga Lonkner, Matilda Simcic, Fran Widemsek who had surgery. Rose Hribar is leaving for Florida for the winter. Enjoy the weather, Rosie. We lost a very active member, Jennie Pugel, who suffered very much during her illness. To her family our sincerest condolence. May her soul rest in peace. Anne Reber-nishek and Mary Tutin lost their brother, Mr. Pincolic. To Ann and Mary and their families our deepest sympathies; may his soul rest in peace. To all our shut-ins, a speedy recovery. Try to attend the meetings. They are held on the 4th Wednesday of each month, except June, July and August. We need new ideas, as we will be celebrating, our 60th anniversary in combination with Wisconsin State Convention on September, 1990. The meeting closed with prayer. Our celebrant. Rose Vodnik treated us to apple strudel, and it was delicious. If you are a December celebrant come to the meeting with your favorite treat. Merry Christmas to all, and a very happy and healthy New Year. R.K. NO. 47, GARFIELD HTS., OH By the time this article will be published in the ZARJA, we will already have had our Big Thanksgiving Dinner with the oh, so good and luscious turkey, pumpkin pie and all the trimmings that go with it. Before we know it, the ground will be covered with snow and our holiday season will slowly be crawling upon us and we will be shaking hands and wishing each other a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! Another year gone by! It seems that as we grow older the days, months and years are just flying by. Congratulations are in order to Br. 32 of Euclid, OH on their 60th anniversary held in conjunction with the Ohio-Michigan State Convention on October 1st. Mass was at St. Christ- ine’s church with Bishop Pevec officiating. To Mary Lavrenčič, first time Great Grandmother, Dorothy Squire, Grandmother and Elsie Lavrenčič, Great Aunt, a bouncing baby boy named Michael Austin; to Ethel and Tom Praznik, a bundle of joy named Lauren, to Craig Kemmerling, son of James and Virginia Kemmerling who last summer received his Eagle Scout Badge and this summer was one of the 34,000 leaders and boy scouts who attended the National Scout Jamboree at Fort A.P. Hill in Virginia, (Craig, grandma and grandpa Taucher are so proud of you), our sincere congratulations! Welcome new B member, Virginia Kemmerling (Ginger). Travelers on the go: Olga Dorehak and husband, Al, vacationed in sunny Florida and made a few stops on their way back visiting Olga's cousin, Stanley Russian at Ft. Lauderdale. Mary and Casey Mundson flew to Missouri to spend some time with daughter, Judy Freeman and husband. Julie Mezgec spent 5 days with Valley View seniors in Canada. Birthday wishes to our November and December birthday girls: Val Mervar, Angela Zakrajšek, Josephine Korman, Mary Vidakovich, Marge Bizjak, Ann Harsh, Delores Hrovat, Stella Mahnic, Pauline Rohal, Caroline Stare, Jennie Gerk, Vickie Hočevar, Jennie Zupančič, Jennie Mezgec. Sick list: Julie Mezgec had eye surgery and is doing better each day. Jennie Praznik is not up to par. Elsie Spellacy had leg vein by-pass surgery. Mrs. Jesenko had a misfortune, spilled some hot roast beef gravy on her leg. Frances Persin was at Bed-lord Hospital and is back at the Sisters of the Poor. Katherine Gasparič is at Franklin County Nursing Home. Talked to Agnes Zagar's daughter and she mentioned that her mother would be happy to receive some cards to cheer her up. Ladies, remember all our members who are sick, call them, visit them, send them a cheery card sometime. I am sure they would all like to hear from you. Our sincere sympathy to John Fabjančič, son of Mary Fabjančič who passed away Aug. 5th. May perpetual light shine upon her. Pot Luck, and Christmas Party is Dec. 3rd at I o’clock at the SND in Maple Hts. Wishing you all a Blessed and Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Vesele božične praznike in srečno novo leto želim vsem. A Christinas Wish May all the days of all the year Thai God may have in store, Be filled with Joy and Peace, To hi ess you more and more. May the happiness of Christmas Be in your heart to stay, And to brighten all \our moments Long after Christmas Daw MARY TAUCHER NO. 50, CLEVELAND, OH The most beautiful Indian Summer I can remember is about over. No wind, just warm weather and if the tree is in youryard, you got the leaves! They fell straight to the ground and piled up as there was no wind to blow them away to your neighbor’s (as of this writing). Tomorrow will be another story! Cold! Our trip to Pittsburgh University was a colorful ride with autumn colors to view and warm enough for students to study outdoors as we passed by them to see the University Chapel given by the Heinz Family. The Con-nick stained glass windows of 1/4 million pieces depicting 310 people in historical and religious backgrounds are 93 ft. high. It would cost $40 million to duplicate this 50 year structure today. Steeple is 250 ft. high in all, equivalent to 42 stories. Beautiful carved wood in the Chapel with a console organ of 900 pipes and used by all denominations. Over 350 marriages are performed there in a year. Crossing the campus we went to see the 21 Nationality Classrooms used today and found them austere but impressive with beautiful, artfully carved walls emphasizing different cultures of the nations of the world. The Yugoslavian classroom doesn’t have to take a back seat. Sturdy chairs and intricately carved wood walls and hand crafts were what you would expect from our people and culture. Their huge conference room of gothic style adjoining the classrooms is built of stone using no steel and took 62 men 13 years to build. We thought it could use more windows for students to have more light while reading and writing. St. Anthony’s Chapel, a Shrine on the Hill, a little hard to find by our coach driver, was worthwhile to see. BRANCH 50’S GOOD DEEDS! CHRISTMAS GIFT IDEAS: A pleasant visit was made by Carole Traven, Beatrice Tome, Anne Ryavec and Ann Tercek to Louise Mlakar on her 90th Birthday on Sept. 8th. Louise is a Br. 50 member for 58 years. She resides at the St. Joseph & St. Mark Nursing Home located on 21800 Chardon Road, Euclid, OH 44117. We celebrated her day with a delicious cakc, sang "Happy Birthday" and presented her with a gift and corsage. Knowing what a lovely soprano voice she always had we sang two songs in Slovenian - this topped it off as she can still sing and knew the songs very well. A "Thank You” was received from Louise saying, "This day was the highlight of my life.” God Bless this lovely lady, and I’m sure cards would be appreciated, as it gets quite lonely with no other Slovenians nearby. One other member, Josephine Gerbic, age 85, is also at this home. We made a visit to her also in the same manner in the month of August. Jo is well remembered by all the beautiful dresses she donated over the years for our Br. 50 Card Parties from her place of employment. * * * On September 16th we visited our dear Josephine Seelye, a Charter Member of 58 years. We still have 7 Charter Members living. Arrangements were made for a “surprise visit" with cake, flowers, gift and corsage as it was Jo’s 88th birthday for all seven of us including yours truly. Carole Traven has submitted news about our Jo in this issue of ZARJA. * * * On Oct. 22nd a visit was made by Anne Ryavec, Carole Traven and your’s truly to our ever lovable member, Eleanore Karlinger, 1086 Addison Road, Cleve., OH 44103. What a pleasant, heart-warming, interesting lady she is. It is a pleasure to listen to her hours on end and be with her. Even though she has been house-bound for twenty years, she's always happy to have friends visit. Eleanore is a member of branch 50 for 55 years. POTS and PANS cookbook $9.00 “It’s in Every Slovenian": Butcher apron 12.50 Cap 6.00 T-shirts S. 00 Books: From Slovenia to America Softbound 3.50 Hardbound 5.00 Footsteps Through Time 6.00 Flowers from My Carden S.50 Membership in Zveza - Class A 9.60 Class B 12.60 Junior 2.40 Slo ven inn - English Christmas Cards 6 for 5.00 Single Card 1.00 (Postage and handling $1.50) SLOVENIAN WOMEN’S UNION, 431 No. Chicago St., Joliet, IL 60432 Our last visit was to our lovely member, Agnes Bradek whom we do not see anymore. She is an 18 year member. Agnes owned Marquette Coal Company in her younger years and was very successful and a joy to know. In her latter years, she has been very unfortunate and has had extensive surgeries of all kinds. Agnes lives at 8167 Mentor Ave., Mentor, OH 44060. Cards would be most welcome. * * * All of these ladies and others whom we hope to visit in the near future are always in our thoughts and prayers. “God Bless All of You Lovely Ladies and May He Watch Over You in His Loving Care.” Ann Tercek Built in 1883 with priceless life-size wooden Stations of the Cross and thousands of authenticated relics of the Saints, a splinter of the True Cross, a thorn from the Crown of Thorns and also a piece of stone from the Holy Sepulchre, all in reliquaries with a repository. Truly, it gave us all a profound feeling toward aspects of our faith. Most of us remarked, “Why go to Europe! We have beautiful chapels, churches, universities and works of art to be seen here!” Thank you, Ann Ryavec, for a beautiful, educational trip and the excellent dinner at Bobby Rubino's topping it off later. This, plus a substantial repast on the bus, made it a joyous and fun-filled ride to Pittsburgh, City of Hills. Get well wishes to our ailing and convalescing members, namely, Mary Okicki, Frances Hrovat, Virginia Mlack, Marian Walsh, Sophie Japel, Josephine Stmisa (two new knees!), Jo Trunk, Jean Tomsick and Eleanore Femic (heart attack). Ladies, do take care. Our sympathy to Marian Urankar, she lost her brother, Joseph Lustrik who also was the brother of deceased Vera Matejka, the reporter before me. Marian Walsh also lost her brother and Josephine Mole lost her sister, Alice Pavlic. Louise Plemel will be missed by her sister, Josephine Sieworek. "Rest in Peace” — our wish to them. Welcome to three new members, Ann Zitel, Angela Hutar and Mary Blanchar, mother and daughter, and a welcome back to Cleveland for Theresa Vegh who moved from Lem-ont, II. Let’s see all of you at our meetings and you’ll get to know us all. Mary Petrie, again for the second time, became a great grandmother to 7 lbs 2 oz. Michael E. Petrie and Ann Cern, who has 13 grandchildren is a first time great grandmother as Marie Karel was born. Frances Hrovat was happy to see her great grandson for the first time when he came with his father to visit her in the hospital. Congratulations. A grateful lady was Josephine Seelye (charter member) when Pres. Ann Tercek and 6 charter members visited her on the west side of Cleve- JO SEELYE! SHE’S ONE IN A MILLION! Our lovely member, Jo Seelye When Branch 50 was being organized, back in 1931, Albina Novak called upon one of the best persons to help recruit new members. She was Jo Seelye, a young, intelligent and vibrant woman who enthusiastically added her input into the new, young organization. Jo Seelye participated in all their events, the meetings, drill team activities, and hesides this, she enrolled some 100 members over the years. land at her home — she was 88 years young that day! She missed our celebration at the meeting. Charter members are Mary, Frances and Josephine Bencin, Carole Traven, Antoinette Celesnik and Sophie Posch who was our first president and leader of the drill team. Pictures were taken and we hope to see them in Zarja. (Thanks to the Bencin sisters for sending the one of Jo seen above.) Our Sunshine Ladies, Pres. Ann Tercek, Vice-Pres. Anne Ryavec, Carole Traven, and Beatrice Tome visited our shut-ins with Birthday cakes, flowers and gifts and made Louse Mlakar, a resident of St. Joseph-St. Mark Nursing Home, also Josephine Gerbec, Eleanore Karlinger and Agnes Bradek, very happy to be remembered. Congratulations to Dr. Margaret Gorensek, much needed at the new Cleveland Clinic in Florida. She is an Internist, Pediatrist and also works in the dept, for Infectuous Diseases for Adults and Children. Many members especially remember Jo because of the time she took on a new "character,” becoming “Urna Než’ka”! Urna Nei’ka was a popular cartoon character in ZARJA beginning in 1934. The “character Nei’ka” wrote a humorous column in ZARJA - was a “Slovenian Ann Landers" known to give good advice to the lovelorn and smart come-backs to gossipy friends Josephine Smith related to 54 ladies present at the meeting, the good times our members had in 1971 for very little money. They had great ideas for fun and to enhance their treasury. Our secretary, Evelyn Pipoly, in less than one year took to her position like a duck to water and had all the dues paid from all members by the month of September. So, Evelyn deserves our praise and applause. Our by-laws state that dues are to be paid by the first three months of the year, so please, abide by the rules and make things less costly and simpler for Evelyn. Also, there is a winner each year for free dues. Hope to see you at the Christmas Party and then at the January meeting. Reminder — Put your dime out on the window sill before the New Year begins and have financial luck all year! Tis the year end, so remember your friends and have a Happy and Prosperous New Year. Your Reporter, VERA ŠEBENIK and anxious suitors! Her language was a mixture we now call "half & pol”! One day, Mrs. Prisland and Mrs. Novak came to Jo, asking her to become Urna Než’ka as a special humorous act, to entertain the members at a convention. Jo donned a fancy hat, put on boots and carried a basket, just like the pictures of Uma Než’ka seen in ZARJA (see below) and delighted the convention assembly. Jo was asked to perform in her role many times afterward, and always with a lot of fun and hilarity. As we remember Urna Než’ka, we can’t forget that Jo brought her to life! Is it too late to say “Thanks, Jo!”? Jo was born on Sept. 28th, 1901, so this year she became 88 years young! She has three children, 23 grandchildren and 17 greai grandchildren with three more on the way! We know she enjoys her wonderful family. By the way, her children, when small, accompanied Jo on all her excursions around town, on Zveza business, getting new members forSWU! Those are the kind of people that made our Zveza grow by leaps and bounds! She has a very nice hobby, collecting cancclled stamps for Catholic missions. Her spirit is wonderful and she’s still a lovely lady! Much love and many good wishes to you, Jo! And, Thanks, again for being you! (We appreciate hearing from Carole Traven of Br. 50 with information on Jo and would love to hear from members with interesting stories of those "good ole’ days”! Ed.) NO. 52, KITZVILLE, MN Meeting was held on Nov. 1st. Rose Trombly, our president, led us in prayer. We had two faithful members that had surgery, Theresa Montcalm and Mildred Barbato. They are both doing very well and were able to attend our meeting. Plans were made for our Christmas Party to be held on our regular meeting night in December. Terri Oberstar was chosen as our Mother of the Year, a very good choice. Our group is growing smaller and older — we therefore decided to meet only six months of the year. Our hostesses, Gen Zidarich, Alice Baratto, Mildred Barbato and Theresa Montcalm serve a very nice lunch. We ended the evening playing cards — winners were Terri Oberstar, Margaret Kochevar, Mildred Barbato, Julia Mancuso and Celia Politano. Door prize was won by Ann Mansfield. Merry Christmas! JENNIE CREA NO. 54, WARREN, OH Our Christmas Luncheon will be on Wednesday, Dec. 20th at the Elks Club Room on Rt. 422 at 1:00 p.m. You shall be called for reservations. We will have a gift exchange and please bring a door prize, canned foods for the games and cookies to sell and share. We will have some type of entertainment so come and enjoy an afternoon before the holidays with your sister members. We always enjoy ourselves. Our son, Tom was married to Cathrine Moore in October and we had a lovely day. The weather was summerlike and to help them celebrate their happiness, many of our friends and relatives were in attendance. It was a wonderful weekend and the newlyweds, while we all recuperated from the festivities, flew to Maui, Hawaii for a week of sun, fun and relaxation. We wish all the best to them in the future. I hope they will be truly blessed in the years to come. It was nice to have Harry’s cousin, Paul J. Hribar and family from Cleveland and Frank and Josie Godic and Marion and Marie Belle, all my cousins, also from Cleveland, with us. Merry Christmas to all and Happy New Year. May the coming year of 1990 fill you all with peace and God’s blessings. JOANNE PONIKVAR NO. 56, HIBBING, MN We had 21 members at our Oct. meeting. Liz Spolar called the Roll and everyone was present. She also read the Nat’l President’s message from ZARJA which was very thought-provoking and she hopes we will all absorb the ideas in this message. Julie Znidar quoted a message that Fr. O’Donnell from Blessed Sacrament church in Hibbing gave at the Foresters’ meeting which was also well-received. The following celebrated birthdays in October: Edith Janes, Katherine Marino and Mary Sporer. Our Memorial Mass was on Sunday, Nov. 26th at St. Leo’s Church. Our Christmas Party plans were finalized and will be held on Dec. 2nd at the VFW. Jackpot was won by our President, Ann Selvo. We again had the pleasure of Anne Pintar and Barbara Dosen’s company. They reside in a nursing home. We hope you all have a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. MILENA KOEHLER NO. 57, NILES, OH We were happy to see so many faces at the meeting on a rainy October evening. Of course, we always welcome our regular members but at the October meeting we were happy to have special guests, Frances Mollis of Wyoming and her daughter, Sister Marie Michael from Denver, Colorado. Also, Frances Racher from Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio was there — as she often comes to see us. We had a lovely luncheon served by Ann Gunther and Mary Young. We really enjoy having our meal first and then to go on with our meeting. It was opened with our president welcoming everyone. Our minutes of the previous meeting were read as were our secretary’s and treasurer’s reports. All were approved. At our meeting we discussed our Christmas plans. We decided to have it at Apple wood Gardens on 422 at 1 p.m. on our regular meeting day, Dec. 12th. It is the same place we had our party last year and enjoyed it very much. Please call Ann Pease at 652-2101 for reservations. We honored our birthday members by singing Happy Birthday to them. As there was no other business to discuss we played a few games of “B" and received prizes brought in by our lunch committee. Don’t forget, members, our dues will be coming up again and each member is to pay an extra dollar to help our treasury for the year. Our lunch committee for November was Phyllis Muccio and Mary De Capua. Take care, God Bless us, each and everyone. FRANCES STANEC There are many ways to say “thank you" hut sometimes a smile says it best! NO. 73, WARRENSVILLE, OH December, already!! And just where did October and November disappear to-they were here! The leaves are gone, the trees are bare, a light covering of snow is on the ground, and here and there a Christmas light is seen. Time to get those cards addressed, dust off the decorations that have been packed away, finish the handmade gifts we’ve started, bake the cookies, shop and wrap! It will be a busy month, so just a gentle reminder to all of you. Work at a slow and easy pace, keep yourselves well, that you may enjoy the holidays with family and friends. October 1st was a real treat for a lot of us in the Cleveland area when we attended the State Convention at St. Christines, coupled with the Sixtieth Anniversary celebration of Branch No. 32. It was nice to see so many familiar faces, to renew acquaintances and to share in the activities of the day. I appreciated the opportunity to address the gathering. The day was warm to start, finished on the cool side, but was enjoyable from beginning to end. Branch 32 did an excellent job in their planning. We will eagerly be looking forward to sharing with them again. CONGRATULATIONS: To Janet and Scott Carter who were married recently. Janet is the daughter of Julie Koltz (South Carolina) and a sister to Jean Epley, members of No. 73. Belated best wishes to everyone. We are given to understand tht Joanne French also had a wedding in Anna L. Hodnik and Anita Vovk: Leam Slovenian! The season of Advent reminds us powerfully that Jesus, the Christ who came in history, who continues to come in mystery, is finally to come in majesty. At this holy time, then, we are yearning, calling to the Lord, to come and in his own person heal all divisions, set all things right, banish evil, give strength and establish justice as only he can do. The above explanation of Advent was taken from the Saint Andrew Bible Missal. We hope it will be helpful in setting our minds and hearts in the proper spirit to prepare ourselves for the great event-the birthday of our King, Jesus Christ. Vesele božične praznike in srečno in mirno novo leto! season-letni čas advent-prihod remind-spomniti powerfully-močno history-zgodovina continues-nadaljevati mystery-skrivnost finally~končno majesty-veličanstvo yeaming-hrepeneje divisions-deljenje banish-pregnati evil-hudoben strength-moč establish—utemeljiti justice-pravica Sing to the tune of Kum Ba Ya Pridi k nam, Gospod duhovna I Pri-di knam, Go-spod, pri- di k nam, pri-di f G c El_ S knam,Gospod,pri-di knam, pri-di k nam,Gospod,pridi C F C k nam, pri- di, Go- spod,naš Bog! Come to us Lord 1. Come(be) with us, Lord, come with us, Come(be) with us, Lord, come with us, Come(be) with us, Lord, come with us, Come, Lord, our God. 2. Everyone is waiting for you, come(be) with us, Everyone is waiting for you, come(be) with us, Everyone is waiting for you, come(be) with us, Come Lord, our God. 1. Pridi k nam, Gospod, pridi k nam, pridi k nam, Gospod, pridi k nam, pridi k nam, Gospod, pridi k nam, pridi, Gospod, naš Bog! 2. Vsi tc čakamo, pridi k nam, vsi te čakamo, pridi k nam, vsi te čakamo, pridi k nam, pridi, Gospod, naš Bog! 3. Vsi te prosimo, pridi, k nam, vsi te prosimo, pridi k nam, vsi te prosimo, pridi k nam, pridi, Gospod, naš Bog! 3. Everyone is asking (begging) you, come (be) with us, Everyone is asking (begging) you, come (be) with us,’ Everyone is asking (begging) you, come (be) with us. Come, Lord, our God Anita and I thought this would be a nice easy song for the children to learn and sing for Jesus’ Birthday this year. A.H. the family. The celebration was dimmed somewhat with the death of Joanne's mother. So, while we offer congratulations to the newlyweds, we also offer our condolences to the French family on the loss of a loved one. Prayers are with you. GET WELL WISHES: To Rose Zbaznik who spent time in the hospital battling a bout of pneumonia. We hope you have recovered well. Rose. It is a nasty illness to have. Along the same note, our daughter (Mary Lax) is spending time again at Cleveland Clinic where she is undergoing treat- ment to arrest a fungal pneumonia. And, we would like to thank all of the members of No. 73, and sister-lodges in the area, that took time to attend a Mass celebrated for Mary on October 17th. About 200 people were in attendance. It was a spiritual uplifting that Mary needed, and that we (her family and friends) all benefited from. Thank you, and keep those prayers coming, for all of'our afflicted members. It’s the best medicine we can offer. Rose Spremulli has been a member of No. 73 for a long time, and we want to recognize achievement that her daughter, Mary, has attained in Porta Gorda, Florida. Mary is a certified speech language pathologist at the Medical Center in Porta Gorda, where she will be developing a program for the treatment of communicative and swallowing disorders in adults and children in that community. She received her training at Mt. Sinai Medical Center University Hospital, Cleveland, Ohio. She also instructed at Case Western Reserve Medical School. With her knowledge and help, patients with progressive diseases will be able to use sophisticated technol- ogy to help them communicate-aid-ing them in overcoming disabilities. The Spremulli's have every reason to be proud of their daughter’s accomplishments, we are happy to be associated with her in some small way. Our best wishes for her success in future endeavors. Have yourselves a very MERRY CHRISTMAS, stay warm and well. Respectfully submitted, EVELYN A. MAJERCIK NO. 85, DEPUE, IL Greetings to all members. I would like to congratulate my cousin, Joe Sterle on receiving the commendation from Governor of Illinois Jim Thompson for his generosity and kindness shown to the people of Auburn. Joe certainly is a very kind and generous person who goes out of his way to do things for people besides doing a lot for his church. I keep hoping we will win the lottery some day, Joe. It is with pleasure and sadness that I report the closing of Planton's store in Depue. A1 and Mary are retiring after 38.years of running the grocery store. I am very happy for both as they surely deserve to be able to come and go as they please, do some traveling and just enjoy relaxing a little. Al is the famous sausage maker and Mary, a delicious potica and strudel baker. Al will still continue to make some sausage and Mary will do her poticas. Mary is a good member of our lodge. Our best wishes for many years of happy retirement. Enjoy! Father Bernard had the Slovenian litany and the "Slovenska Pesem” chorus of Lemont gave a program of Slovenian sacred music in Resurrection Church in LaSalle. After that, there was a delicious Slovenian pot luck dinner at St. Roch’s Hall. I would like to say “thank you" to Father Bernard, to Jo Foley and her helpers who do such a great job of putting it all together. It is a lot of work for them. Everything was delicious including the cheese and apple strudels. Again, it is a pleasure to report that our member Pearl Drennan is home from the hospital. Pearl had been in the hospital for about 3 months after suffering a stroke and having some surgery for by-pass and valve replacement. I was so happy to see Pearl looking so good and doing so well. Pearl has had a lot of sickness in the last few years so we’re hoping that this is all behind her and only "blue skies” ahead. We will probably be having a meeting soon, so please stay in touch. My best wishes to everyone for a happy and healthy holiday season. May God bless everyone. MARY JERMENC NO. 89, OGLESBY, IL A short business meeting was held. Br. 89 extended their condolences and heartfelt sympathy to Terry Essl, past president, whose grandfather passed away, also to Josie Argubright and Marilyn Argubright on his death. He was their brother-in-law, Edward Argubright. We are saddened at his passing. A thank you note was read from Olga Ancel, National Secretary, for the branch record books which were sent to the Heritage Museum. Angie Nico, delegate to the State Convention, was absent so notes were read on the business discussed at the convention and Angie will give a full report at the Nov. meeting. No new business was taken up. Following the refreshments served by Fran Gorišek and Betty Hamilton we were privileged to have Betty Stack, financial secretary of Br. 24, as a guest and her son, Tom Stack who is a student at Illinois Valley Community College in Oglesby. He was the recipient of three awards when in High school. He received the American History Award, the Bertusi Award, State Scholar and two years in Who’s Who in American High Schools. He is majoring in history. He also received the Sam McCartney Award. This summer, twelve students and two chaperones toured East and West Germany and also parts of Austria including Salzburg and Innsbruck. Pictures of the beautiful castles were magnificient. Really unbelieveable! He gave a picturesque description of all of their travels. Of all of the places visited, he had a preference for Munich, Germany. It is a very modern city and very clean. Transportation was no problem there. It was very thoughtful of Tom and his mother to spend such a lovely evening with our branch. Congratulations, Tom, on your awards and I’m certain we’ll be hearing about more of your endeavors and keep up the good record. A very enjoyable evening was en- joyed. Oct. birthdays were Rose Ann Prey, Emma Folty and Eunice Koma-ter. Josephine Morrison and Eunice Komater were to be hostesses for the Nov. 13th meeting. Respectfully submitted, EUNICE KOMATER NO. 91, OAKMONT, PA Ladies, it’s about time for our December meeting. It will be held on the second Tuesday of December on the 12th. We would like all who attend to bring a five dollar ($5) gift for exchanging. We will also have some new ladies, they are from Br. 96 in Universal. We also want to welcome the ladies from the Northside Pittsburgh Branch, no. 77. Welcome to all of you ladies. We hope you can attend our next meeting. It will be nice to get to know all of you. So, ladies from Br. 91, Please try to be at the meeting of the 12th of December. It would be nice to have our sisters there to welcome our new members. Hope to see you all soon. Don’t forget — Dec. 12th! ANNA MAE President NO. 95, SO. CHICAGO, IL It is the time of year for all Branches to consider the slate of officers for next year. The same is true for Branch 95 and hopefully, we’ll have volunteers to carry on the work of our predecessors. We will have our regular meeting Dec. 6 and our Christmas party Dec. 12 at Mr. D’s on Indianapolis Blvd. Our genial hostesses were: Helen Price, Dolores Hennelley, Mary Nuzda, Marge Simunic, Bernice Mor-risson and Evelyn Driscoll. Member Rose Sajatovic is in Munster Med Inn and we wish her the best. Give it hell, aunt Rose! Split-the-Pot winners were Anne Cavlovic and Marcie Kress. Additional game winners were Helen Santy, Anne Starcevic, Marcie Kress, Virginia Kwiatkowski, Helen Ciechomski, Charlotte Fryza, Marge Simunic and Emma Yergovich. MARIE MARAS A WONDERFUL PERSON TO KNOW LUCIJA DRAGOVAN Lucija Dragovan, Joliet, III., watercolorist, won “Best of Show” and “First Place” awards in the “Art in the Park” show in Norway, Michigan. This past summer has been a an especially eventful time for artist, Lucija Dragovan. She and her family spent the summer at their summer home on Lake Louise in Loretto, which is in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. Being a multimedia artist for many years, she entered Art Fair competition in the area. Artists from the Upper Peninsula nad throughout the Midwest participated. On August 1, 1989, Lucija received the Olive Craig Best of Show award for watercolors, colorgraphs, woodcuts and hand-pulled lithographs at the Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan Summer Art Festival. Lucija received Best of Show Award and First Place Award on August 12th at the “Art in the Park” show in Norway, Michigan, Returning to her home in Joliet at the end of August, Lucija was awarded first place in the exhibit “River Life: Contemporary Views Along Illinois Waterways”, at the Illinois State Museum’s Lockport Gallery. Twenty artists had been selected for the competition. The “River Life” exhibit depicts life on the Illinois Waterways. Lucija’s “Sur Le Pont”, a watercolor of a bridge on the Illinois Waterway was the First Place winner. On September 10th, she was awarded First Place at the Ravenswood Art Fair in Chicago, Illinois, for watercolors and prints. She was also awarded two purchase prizes. Lucija studied at the Art Institute in Chicago, the Chicago Academy of Fine Art and majored in painting and printmaking, graduating with a degree in Fine Art. She has taught at several Illinois schools including Montessori, St. Rose in Wilmington, III., Joliet Junior College and Lewis University. Her works have been exhibited at the Park Forest Gallery, Park Forest, Illinois, Back Drop Gallery, Arlington Heights, Illinois, The Art Gallery in Lake Forest, Illinois, The Chicago Civic Center, Cankarjev Dom in Ljubljana, Slovenia, in Minneapolis, Minn., as well as at the Joliet Junior College and Lewis University in Romeoville, III., and at our own Slovenian Women’s Union Heritage Museum. Lucija designs the lovely Slovenian Christmas Cards for our Heritage Museum each year. Her Joliet Branch is very proud of her accomplishments. Reporter NO. 96, UNIVERSAL, PA Attended meeting of Oakmont Branch 91 on Tuesday, October 10, and turned all records to their officers, as our branch will merge with their branch as of January 1, 1990. All dues from now on are to be sent to their secretary—Mrs. Jennie Flisek, 721 Third Street, Oakmont, PA 15139. It is sad that, after 50 years, branch 96 will no longer be in existence. But, I am sure, our members have many wonderful memories of meetings and affairs held, as well as hard-working officers (deceased Mary Klemenčič and Pauline Kokai, for example). 1 know I enjoyed all my years being an officer (taking minutes) and helping in any way I could. ‘ Wish a speedy recovery to our sick members-and especially Mrs. Podobnik who fell recently, and Jean Oswalt who is in the Oakmont Residence. Our Lodge is donating $100 toward the Scholarship Fund. We wish Branch 91 with whom we will be associated, success and happiness in the coming years. MARY SACSEK NO. 102, WILLARD, WI Greetings everyone! This article is being written in Colorado Springs, Colorado, where my husband and I are enjoying a week with our daughter and son-in-law, Mary Anne and Mike Friedman and our granddaughter, Jodi, who is an aspiring ice-skater. We are enjoying the beautiful Rocky Mountains and surrounding area of Pike's Peak. Since Mike is a football coach, we will attend their first Play-Off Game this afternoon. After a super busy year we treated ourselves to a week of R & R (rest and relaxation). I must refer back to our last State Convention with some belated thank-Yous. The Sheboygan ladies made a special effort to dress in Slovenian costumes. We certainly appreciated that and wish more would do. so for these special occasions. Thank you also to all those members of our Br. 102 who dressed in costume. This all makes any event more special. Thank you, Joan Yaklich, for the additional door prizes. A sincere apology to Mr. & Mrs. Rudy Kotar of Milwaukee, the other grandparents of our Scholarship win- ner, Aimee Staut, who are also very, very proud of her. It was my forget-fullness at the banquet that is to blame for my not mentioning them as they also were there at the Convention in Willard. I am truly sorry for this oversight, Rozi and Rudy. Aimee has just completed a semester of college in Australia as an exchange student from LaCrosse University which she attends here. She is now spending a few weeks visiting a nephew of Grandma Kotar in Sydney before returning home in mid-November. We are all very anxious to see her again and hear about all her experiences in another country! 1 hope eventually she will write an article for Zarja about her adventure. Our October Strudel Sale was a real success and hope our Hunters Bake Sale on Nov. 18th was even better. Thanks much, ladies, for all your baking efforts. We didn’t have an October meeting but will have one in early December, the date not yet decided as I write. We will also have our Pot Luck Christmas Party and gift exchange along with our favorite game for entertainment. I’m sure we will have many things to discuss. Hope we will have a good attendance. The garden produce and fruit are all stored away for the winter and the pretty, colored leaves that make our fall sc beautiful in central Wisconsin are all down now and we’ll be getting our winter snow soon. This also makes the countryside quite pretty and makes good tracking for all the deer hunters. Good luck to them. By the time this is in print, Thanksgiving Day will already be past. I hope everyone had a good day with a delicious dinner. We all have so much to be thankful to the Lord for. Christmas is just around the corner and our thoughts and efforts will be busy with preparations for the holidays. A very Merry Christmas to all and a Happy, Prosperous New Year and especially good health to all the shut-ins. MARY STAUT, Recording Secretary NO. 105, DETROIT, MI Our branch was saddened by the passing of sister Theresa Smoltz in September. Theresa and her husband, John were generous to our branch BRANCH 103 MOURNS MEMBER C, Mary Ausich on her 90th birthday. She passed away in August. Žalostni božič Božič - božič - bliža se Zima pritiska - da nam pove, Kje si bratec - in kje so sestre Kje so mamice - da se vidite. Oh preljuba naša domovina Ko si nas tako razškropila, Kje ste zdaj - in kje so vsi Spomin na vse - še tu živi. Ja preljubi božič - kje si ti Ko včasih smo, tak lušni bli, Smo sladko vince pili vsi Tako samo tudi lepo prepevali. Zdaj samo so še spomini Ko premišljujemo v dolgi zimi, Kam le kam - so vsi odšli, Ni jih tu - ko so pervo bli. Ja prav žalostno je vse to Ko jemlejo od nas slovo, Ker že malo nas je vseh bilo Slovenco naših bo zmankalo. especially each Easter season by donating chocolate bunnies to be sold for fund-raising. Four of our members, Kathleen Emerson, Patricia Adamic, Norren Roel and Yola Roel attended theOhio-Michigan State Convention on the weekend of Sept. 30-0ct. 1st. Reports from them indicate it was a beautiful event. Our president, Kathleen Emerson had an unfortunate accident while NO. 103, WASHINGTON, D.C. Deepest sympathy! The members of the Slovenian Women’s Union, Branch 103. Washington, D.C. wish to extend to Miss Matilda Ausich, our Recording Secry., our deepest sympathy on the death of her mother, Mrs. Mary Ausich on August 18, 1989, at Mt. Vernon Hospital in Alexandria, VA. She died of a heart ailment. Preceding her in death were her husband and two sons. In 1978, she moved from her home and the town she loved so much, Woodward, Iowa to live with her daughter, Amalya Johnson in Alexandria, Virginia. Funeral services were held in Woodward, Iowa where many friends and relatives came to pay their final respects. She came to America in October 1912 and was married to Anton Ausich (who came to America in 1907) at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Des Moines, Iowa. In 1920, they moved to Woodward where their four children attended school. Survivors include her two daughters — Amalya (Mollie) Johnson ol Alexandria, VA and Matilda Ausich (Tillie) of Arlington, VA. Also surviving are nine grandchildren and 17 great grandchildren. We remember Mrs. Ausich as a lovely lady with a sense of humor and a twinkle in her eyes. She was our member for a short period. We send a photo taken of her at age 90 years. She loved to write poetry and we thank Tillie for sending her poem “Žalostni Božič" for all to enjoy. Sincerely, FREDA H. MICHELITCH cleaning out her cupboards. A fall resulted in a severely cut leg and this occured on the morning of our October meeting and planned trip to an apple farm. However, the meeting was held and the trip continued. We missed having you there, Kathleen. Our Christmas luncheon wil be held on Dec. 9th. No selection has been made at this time as to the restaurant and time. VICKI DOHERTY MATIEVICH otara leamctw KA7SEVUM ZVl PhSIlkČIKI ULJTt KfiJ JTl/flLI t * ... daj nam mir in tisto srečo, ki si jo pastirjem dal! (božična pesem) Resnično, kar stoje betlehemske poljane in se boči nad njimi nebo božje, še niso videle take radosti kakor v tisti čudežni noči. Komaj so izginili angeli v višavi in so potihnili njih spevi, ki so lili v srca preprostih pastirjev, kakor bi padala v srca najslajša sreča, so hoteli vsi hiteti gori na višavo, da bi videli tam čudo, naznanjeno jim po poslanikih nebeških. Komaj, komaj so pregovorili dvoje bolehnih, nadušljivih starcev, naj ostaneta pri živini. In mali Efrem je moral ostati pri njima. Ostati je moral, ker je bil slep in bi druge le zadrževal pri jadrni, hrepeneči hoji. Že je prihajala iz puščave, kjer je spala čez noč, jutranja zora, ko so se pastirji vrnili. Vrnili so se vsi radostni in srečni, tako polni tistega čudežnega, kar so videli gori ob Betlehemu, da niso mogli govoriti o ničemer drugem kot o malem detetu, ki so ga videli gori v hlevu. Najbolj blagoslovljeni, najbolj srečni pa so se vrnili s tega pohoda otroci. Slepi Efrem je poslušal njih srečo, ki je zvenela iz vsake besede, iz vsake kretnje, iz slednjega diha - kako čudežno je sijala iz blestečih se oči, ni mogel videti. Poslušal je in poslušal, večje in večje hrepenenje se mu je budilo v srcu, da bi tudi videl to čudežno dete. Pa je potegnil prijatelja malega Benjamina v stran od drugih in ga je prosil: »Benjamin, bratec, povedi me gori k temu prelepemu detetu.«-» Saj ga ne moreš videti, « se je branil Benjamin. - »A vendar, povedi me, prosim te.« - »Ne vem, če bi bilo v redu.« - »Za pisano piščalko, ki mi jo je dal stari Simon, si me prosil zadnjič. To ti dam, če me povedeš,« je silil mali Efrem, ves vznemirjen, da prijatelja morda vendar ne bo mogel omehčati in pregovoriti. - »Pa bodi!« se je krat- kem premisleku odločil Benjamin. - »Dober si, Benjamin, « se je vzradostil Efrem. »Zdaj res vem, da si mi prijatelj in brat. Brat hočem ostati tudi jaz tebi vse življenje.« - “Pa pojdiva!« -»Čaj, Benjamin. Kaj misliš, ne bi li kazalo, da vzameva moje malo jagnje s seboj in ga poneseva detetu v hlecvu? Da so tako ubogi, ste pravili.« - Benjamin je tlesknil z malimi rokami. »Da, ponesiva mu! Takoj ga vjamem. Ti ga neseš, jaz pa te bom vodil.« Jagnje sta kmalu dobila in sta šla. Pač je držal Benjamin še manjšega slepega Efrema za roko, a Efrem je stopal vedno nagleje nego Benjamin, skoro vedno korak pred Benjaminom, tako veliko je bilo njegovo hrepenenje. Kakor bi videl pot pred seboj in bi se oklepal roke prijateljeve le iz dobrote, je stopal hitro in varno. Da sama nista vedela kdaj, sta prispela v hlev. »Tukaj, Efrem, pred jaslicami sva, poklekni!« je šepetaje opominjal Benjamin. Oba sta pokleknila. »Tukaj, Efrem, poljubi detetu rokico; naproti ti jo moli.« Efrem jo je pobožno poljubil. »Tukaj, prelepo detece, sem ti prinesel svoje jagnje. Skoro tako rad sem ga imel kakor mamico. A ga rad dam tebi.« »Ko bi ga ti videl, Efrem, kako se smehlja,« je šepetaje govoril Benjamin. »Še nikoli nisem videl takega smehljaja. A kaj, ko ne vidiš, siromak!« »Saj vidim!« je kriknil Efrem in je naglas zajokal. Toliko radosti in sreče je bilo v njegovem vzkliku in v njegovem joku, da je, ko se je zbudil iz prvega začudenja, zajokal z njim še Benjamin... Z nebeškim smehljajem ju je blagoslavljal iz jaslic Jezušček... Ksaver Meško MAXSIM GASPARI: Slovenske jaslice ANTON DERMOTA c72w€ m/ e/i/ oečer Greš z menoj v Salzburg? Prve vloge, prve premire Potem ko mi je ravnatelj Kerber slovesno izročil pogodbo, me je mimogrede vprašal: »Kaj boš počel poleti?« Ko sem mu odvrnil, da nimam nobenih načrtov, je še vprašal: »Greš z menoj v Salzburg?« Kerber namreč ni bil samo soustanovitelj, temveč že več let tudi vodja salzburškega festivala, ki se mu je takoj po koncu sezone v dunajski državni operi posvetil z vsemi močmi. Zame je bila njegova ponudba kot dar z nebes, saj sem komaj verjel, da bom kdaj sodeloval pri salzburških prireditvah, še preden bi začel delati v državni opri. Nadvse srečen sem torej pristal. Tedaj je iz žepa izvlekel staro tramvajsko karto in nanjo načečkal pogoje moje pogodbe. Vlogo, ki bi jo moral prevzeti - bila je vloga Zorna v »Mojstrih pevcih« pod vodstvom Toscaninija, potem trajanje mojega bivanja v Salzburgu, namreč od začetka julija do konca avgusta, število predstav, pri katerih bi sodeloval - vse skupaj štiri, in honorar, ki naj bi ga prejel - za vsako predstavo čistih 300 šilingov. To je bilo tedaj veliko denarja, toliko, kolikor bi moral prejeti v operi na mesec. Še nikoli prej nisem bil v Salzburgu in tam nisem poznal žive duše. Seveda nisem vedel, kje bom stanoval. Zato sem se hitro odločil in odšel k »stricu« Kerberju v Festspielhaus. Uradoval je v mali nizki kamrici, kjer si se lahko z roko dotaknil stropa. Skozi okno se je videlo na trg pred starim poslopjem. Kakor da bi bil slutil, kaj bodo za mene pozneje pomenili barok, gotika in likovna umetnost sploh, mi je najprej rekel, naj pogledam skozi okno. Razložil mi je: »To je frančiškanska cerkev s slovito Pacherjevo Madono, zraven pa je velika stolnica s čudovitmi orglami in z neprecenljivimi cerkvenimi zakladi. To si moraš vse ogledati!« Ubogal sem njegov nasvet in kmalu sem samostojno raziskoval, z vso dušo iskal, pa tudi našel lepote tega neprimerljivega mesta, njegovo umetnost in njegove naravne lepote. Iz tega se je rodila notranja vez med menoj in Salzburgom, ki se ni nikoli pretrgala. Kerber me je nato napotil v pisarno, kjer so sodelujočim pomagali, da so si našli stanovanje. Že naslednjega dne sem se vselil v zasebno sobo v starem mestu, ki jo je oddajala skromna, zgrbljena ženica. Dobra starka je skrbela zame kakor mati in mi postregla vsako jutro z odličnim zajtrkom. Pri tem pa je to še sodilo v ceno sobe! Nenadoma se mi je zdelo vse tako poceni. S svojim honorarjem sem lahko udobno živel, pa sem si lahko še kaj prihranil. Salzburg je bil moj prvi korak v veliki svet, toda v primerjavi s tem, kar sem pozneje doživel na potovanjih, je bilo tu kar prijetno domače. Z umetniškim dogodkom se je družila zunanja slovesnost, družbeni sijaj. Obiskovalce tedanjega festivala težko primerjamo današnjim. Leta 1936 so prišli v Salzburg res vsi, ki so v tujini in v domovini pomenili vrh tedanje družbe, od najpomembnejšjih umetnikov, kronanih glav in pripadnikov angleških plemenitaških družin, do finančnih velikašev in prekomorskih dežel. Mogoče, da, prav verjetno je, da niso vsi sodelujoči občutili veličine dogodka kakor jaz, ki sem prišle z »dežele« in za katerega je bilo vse to razburljiva novost. Toda ta nedoločljiva salzburška zmes umetniškega in družbenega čara je bila zame doživetje in skoraj omamljen sem odšel domov. Kljub svoji majhni in skromni vlogi sem čutil, da je bilo sodelovanje na tem večeru velika odlika. Po četrti izvedbi 22. avgusta sem se moral težkega srca posloviti od Salzburga. Lahko pa sem se tolažil in upravičeno pričakoval, da se bom prihodnje leto spet vrnil, zakaj že je bilo določeno, da bodo »Mojstri pevci« s Toscaninijem leta 1937 spet na sporedu. 1. septembra 1936 sem plaho vstopil v zvišeno hišo na opernem Ringu, kjer so mi takoj izplačali mojo prvo plačo. S tem mi je samozavest močno zrastla. Novo, pomembno obdobje v mojem do tedaj precej negotovem življenju se je začelo. Že isti večer sem stal na odru v vlogi prvega obroženca v meni že znani repertoarni predstavi »Čarobna piščal«, s katero je Josef Krips začel novo sezono. Na sporedih je bilo moje ime prvikrat tiskano brez pristavka k.g. (kot gost). Nad vsem kar se je dogajalo v operni hisi, je bedel ravnatelj Kerber zelo preudarno, toda tiho in neopazno. Bil je vzoren primer avstrijskega uradnika na umetnostnem področju, zraven tega pa rojen organizator. Pri njem sem se počutil kar najbolj varnega, v vsaki zadevi sem se lahko zatekel k njemu in vedno sem olajšan zapustil njegovo sobo, kakor da bi ta ravnatelj čutil do mene očetovsko odgovornost. To se je pokazalo tudi v tem, da mi je po možnost dajal vedno nove vloge v predstavah, ki jih je sam režiral. Tako na primer vlogo ljubimca Silvaina v Maillartovi operi »Eremitov zvonček«, ki ga je z menoj temeljito predelal; vlogo Janka v »Prodani nevesti« in Alfreda v »Netopirju«. Pri govorjenih odstavkih mu je bila nadvse pomembna odrska nemščina tako, da so se glasbene skušnje dostikrat sprevrgle v govorne vaje. Pa tudi kot režiser ni bil noben diktator, temveč prijazni svetovalec. Preden mi je svetoval kako gesto ali okret, je prej kolegialno vprašal: »Misliš, da bo to zate primerno?« Kako dobro je znal ravnati s četico svojih umetnikov, kaže tale dogodek: v dunajski operi je bila (in je še) umetnikom na voljo loža, kamor sem smel kot član hiše. To sem do dobrega uporabljal in bil tam stalni gost. Nekoč sem spet sedel spredaj ob naslonjalu, ko se odpro vrata in v ložo vstopi slavni Alfred Piccaver. Takoj sem skočil pokonci in mu odstopil sedež. Nisem pa si ga upal nagovoriti. a a iV . - - ... Sv. Andrej, Sv. Lucija, poleg pa še nekaj božičnih običajev .... Cerknica p. Athanazij Lovrenčič, OFM: Skrivnost božične noči Skrivnostna tišina pride nad vse stvari, ko se bliža božič. Ljudje pustijo svoje delo in se skušajo zbrati okoli svoje družine. Na ta sveti dan prepiri so pozabljeni in radost je na obrazih ljudi. Kakšna sprememba med vsakdanjim življenjem, ki je povezano s tolikim trpljenjem in božičem, ki nam prinaša veselje in novo upanje. Ni praznika na katerega bi se toliko pripravljali kot na božič. Potem pa božič pride in zopet gre mimo nas, ne da bi imeli kaj duhovne koristi od tega praznovanja. Prav je da se veselimo ob božiču. A to veselje bi moralo biti pri nas vsak dan, kajti Jezus ni prišel, da ostane pri nas za en ali dva dni, On je prišel, da ostane pri nas za vedno. Ali se spomniš, s kakšno otroško vero smo molili kot otroci pred jaslicami v svoji farni cerkvi. Ista vera bi naj bila v naših srcih tudi sedaj. Reči moramo, še posebno sedaj, ko smo starejši in rabimo še bolj božje zagotovilo, da nas Bog ljubi. Življenje ti prinaša razočaranje in trpljenje, a božični dan ti je prinesel Dete, ki je odvzelo ostrino našemu trpljenju in nam dalo novo upanje. Ko boš pred jaslicami, pomni, daje Kristus prišel tudi zate, da ti da novo moč za vsakdanje življenje in še posebno, da nas prepriča, da nikoli nismo sami. Naj vam božično Dete podari mir in napolni vaša srca in domove s pravim veseljem, veseljem, ki ga danes tako zelo pogrešamo in naj vas Bog ohrani v svoji milosti skozi novo leto. Drugega dne me je poklical k sebi Kerber in mi dejal: »Kaj si pa spet storil? Pravkar je bil gospod Kammersanger pri meni in se pritožil, da se mu nisi predstavil.« Bilo mi je, kakor da bi me nekdo udaril po glavi. Toda Kerber me je pomiril: »Nič se nikar ne razburjaj! Piccaverju sem rekel, da si po naravi plah in da se preprosto nisi upal pred tako velikim umetnikom odpreti usta. To je z velikim zadovoljstvom vzel na znanje.« Spomladi leti 1937 sem pel svojo prvo veliko vlogo v državni operi, ki je dirigiral Josef Krips, in sicer vlogo Alfreda v Verdijevi Traviati. Moja naloga pa je bila toliko težja, ker sta bila moja partnerja dva zelo slovita pevca: Jarmila Novotna kot Violetta in Aleksander Sved kot oče Germont. Novotna, rojena Parižarlka, je bila pravi pojem dive: lepa, elegantna, privlačna, kratko malo vzor odrske pojave, s prav tako vzornim glasom. Njene vrhunske vloge so bile Marinka v »Prodani nevesti«, Pamina v »Čarobni piščali«, ko je dirigiral Toscanini, in Giuditta z Richardom Tauberjem pri prvi izvedbi te Leharjeve operete da Dunaju, katere naslovna vloga je kakor nalašč zanjo napisana. — Se bo nadaljevalo — Na Andrejevo (30. nov.) so šli fantki zjutraj zgodaj “spodlazovat”’. Šli so od hiše do hiše po vasi in pred vsako hišo zapeli: Dobro jutro sv. Andrej, dajte, dajte, da se vam ne bodo kulca polomila. To je bila prošnja k sv. Andreju, da se kmetom med letom ne bi polomili vozovi - “kulca”. Več jim je kmet dal, bolj “gvišno" ga bo sv. Andrej uslišal. Sv. Lucija (13. dec.) (12. dec.) so napovedovali vreme za naslednje leto. Prerezali so par čebul na polovice. Iz teh polovic so pobrali plasti čebule v obliki skledice. Moralo jih je biti 12, za 12 mesecev v letu. V te čebulne skledice so nalili vodo, iz katerih je voda najprej izginila v tistih mesecih bo suša, v ostalih bo pa dosti mokrote. Sveti večer -Ob A ve Mariji je gospodinja položila na lepo pogrnjeno mizo velik kolač. Testo tega kolgča je bilo kot za potice. Ta kolač se je imenoval “župnik" na Notranjskem. Na vrhu so ga pokrili s posebno lepo poštikanim prtom, na to so potem položili še rožni venec, otroci pa še “pildke” naokrog. Ta “župnik” je ostal tam na mizi vse tja do svetih treh Kraljev. Na ta dan so ga pa razrezali in vsakdo v hiši je dobil po en kos, pa najsi je bil človek ali žival. Pravijo, da “župnik” je bil tam pripravljen za sveto Družino, če bi se slučajno ustavila v njihovi hiši. Oče so nato šli pokaditi, mati so pa škropili z blagoslovljeno vodo. Najprej po hiši, nato pa še okrog hiše in po hlevih. Začenši s kajenjem so začeli tudi moliti vero in rožni venec. Po kajenju in blagoslovitvi so se vrnili v hišo, pokleknili pred jaslice in zmolili do konca vse tri dele rožnega venca. Za tem je bila večerja, ki je bila že pripravljena preje. Skleda mlečne kaše in “škundri" krhlji. Po večerji so igrali domine, fižoločkali in peli božične pesmi. Ob 11 tih pa so odšli k polnočnici. Preskočimo k “koledvanju”...Pri koledvanju so fantje že malo srednje starosti. Eden se je namazal s sajami in nato so si iz “popenedkla” naredili krone. Odšli so po vasi od hiše do hiše pojač: Prišli so prišli kralji trije, Gašper, Miha, Boltežar. Eden je črn pa je še mlad, ves je oportan, ves je zlat. Ena zvezda gori gre proti Betlehemu, če pa ne verjamete, poj’te gledat’. Gremo, gremo tja k štalici tam kjer Jerzušček not' leži. Te svete tri Kralje so ljudje obdarovali, ko so peli mimo njihovih hiš. Najlepša hvala za podatke običajev - Mimi Yavornik, Danici Chemas in Amaliji Kosnik. CIRILA KERMAVNER DOPISI ŠT. 68, FAIRPORT HRB., OH Hladna jesen že prihaja, po dolincah slanca pada, ali rožic nam ni še pomorila pred hišami in po vrtovih, še krasno cvetijo. Posebno še Marijine solzice, v starem kraju smo jih tako imenovale, tukaj pa jim pravimo inpejšenc; kaj pa še astre na dolgih pecljih so ven pririnile iz gostih obrabljenih sosednih rož v lepih vinskorudečih, plavih in belih barvah. Od teh sem seme dobila iz stare domovine od nečakinj. Zelo se jim prilaga ameriška zemlja. In prav tako tudi belagonije v ospredju hiše pri oknih v cvetljičnih posodah v roza barvi, da jih je res lepo videti s tako bogatimi cvetovi. Še mimo idoči se vanje ozirajo. Le škoda, da nam na T.V. napovedujejo, da se bo vreme spremenilo. In danes na nedeljo, ko to pišem, to je 15. oktobra smo imeli kar pravo poletno vročino — toplomer je skočil na 81°F. Nakatere ptice selivke so že odletele v južne kraje in Vam ponesle pozdrave is našega lepega “Ohaja”. Kako nam z brzino minevajo letni časi. Včasih se nam zdi, da kar lete mimo nas in še malo pa se bomo pripravljali za lepe božične praznike in v pričakovanju našega Odrešenika. Za našo mladost so bili to najlepši prazniki. Lepa je bila mladost, a mladost ne pride več nazaj. Ob teh besedah nas kar pri srcu nekaj stisne. V septembru smo imeli obisk iz Slovenije, iz Cerknice, mladi prijazni Zvonko Mele je bil tukaj en mesec. Spoznal se je z vsemi sorodniki, posebno z mojim možem, — je bilo prvo svidenje. Zvonko je sin Tilke in Toneta Mele (na Vagi). Oba že pokjojna. Zelo lušten je pogovor z njim. Pravil nam je, da je vsem dobro; kdor hoče delati in prav gospodariti. Seveda inflacija — draginja pa velika. Udeležile smo se iz naše podružnice št. 68. praznovanja ustanovitve društva št. 32, ob 60-let-nici, katera je bila ustanovljena 25. avgusta 1929 pri cerkvi St. Kristine v Euclid, Cleveland. Obema je bila tudi federacija Ohio-Michigan — združena s tem številnim društvom. Začetek je bil s sv. mašo ob pol dvanajsti uri. Maševal je škof Most Rev. Edward Pevec, somaševala sta še dva duhovnika. Škof Pevec je v govoru opisal ves potek sodelovanja 60-letne pod- ružnice; zelo lep govor. Zapeli smo Marijino pesem, Angelsko češ-čenje in nazadnje še slovensko himno — Hej Slovenci—. Potem po maši smo v spodnjih prostorih imeli odlično kosilo, katerega pripravljajo samo slovenske kuharice. Vse to je vodila Mary Ster. Najlepša Vam hvala, prav tako tudi postrežljivim vašim pomočnicam. Da bi le še dolgo kuhale po Slovenskih domovih. Bog naj Vas ohrani pri dobrem zdravju še mnogo let. Prav lepa hvala, naši predsednici ljubeznivi Rose BradaCk in prav tako tudi Jean Žnidaršič, ki sta mi omogočili in me pobrale v auto, da sem se tudi jaz lahko udeležila in pridružila temu pomembnemu dogodku. Članice, katere praznujete rojstne dneve v mesecu oktobru: Cathy Bajc, Rose Bradack, Mary Gyure in Velma Zalar v novembru: Emma Guch, Mary Mik-laučič, Fannie Škrabec, Jean Žnidaršič, v decembru: Barbara Hambor in Ann Zatorski. Za Božične praznike pa so naše iskrene želje od članic št. 68, katere se udeležujemo naših sestankov in tudi tistim, ki se ne udeležujete: naj Vam bo božično razpoloženje kot vesela božična pesem, ki naj vas spremlja skozi vse leto 1990. Pridite v našo družbo! Zelo bomo vesele po dolgem času Vašega svidenja; vsi potrebujemo družbe, ne dopustite, da se naša podružnica razpusti. Naš obiskovalec Zvonko iz Cerknice nama je prinesel kaseto slovenskih pesmi in tudi miniaturo kolovrata z melodijo: Le predi dekle, predi, ki jo prilagam spodaj. Starejše gospe se boste spominjale te pesmice. Le predi, dekle predi prav lepo nit naredi, da se ne bo krotičila, in tud’ ne tkalcu trgala, dr. dr. dr. dr. Poštena je predica in stara je resnica, da tisto dekle kaj velja, ki obleko vso domačo ima. dr. dr. dr. dr. Le predi prav vesela, boš lepe pesmi pela, kolovrat pojde rad okrog, bo tekjla lepša nit od rok. dr. dr.... Boš tanko nit storila, da ne bi pozabila, kako življenje nežno je, ki kakor ni pretrga se dr. dr. dr.... Ob koncu tega dopisa za to leto 1989 želim vsem, ki sodelujejo pri našem mesečniku - ZARJA - kakor tudi vsem bralkam in bralcem prav vesele in zadovoljne Božične praznike ter srečno in zdravo Novo Leto 1990. JULKA KLAMMER ANA GABER: ŠT. 2, CHICAGO, IL ^ /z stolpa sem mi zvon doni, ko lega mrak se po vasi. Le zvoni zvon iz temnih lin, le vzbujaj mi na dom spomin. žsa Slovenska PRIMORSKA STARA ZGODBA 0 NOVIH ZVONOVIH Dr. Ivan Pregelj “To pa rečem: Ne oženim se, preden ne zapojo novi!” ZVON DVIGAJO V ZVONIK — NADALJEVANJE IN KONEC — Tako se je začelo zbiranje. Prvo leto so nabrali polovico, drugo in tretje leto je bilo manj. Bile so slabe letine. Četrto leto je bilo še slabše, zato pa peto boljše. In tedaj so oznanili gospod Lužnik takole: "Farani! Denar za zvonove imamo. Hvala Vam, da ste po svojih skromnih močeh v tako kratkem času,” — po dolgem ko večnost, je menil Zlatoper — “da ste v tako kratkem času nabrali. Včeraj zvečer je manjkalo še sto goldinarjev. Pa je prišel eden izmed vas, ki noče biti imenovan in je položil še zadnjih sto goldinarjev. In zdaj je že pismo na potu, da se začno ulivati zvonovi!" Hentaj, je imelo ljudi, kdo da je dal zadnji stotak. Eni so mislili na gospoda samega, še drugi na Tomaževo, ki je bila zelo radodarna deklica, eni celo na domačina profesorja v Gorici. "Prej jaz, kakor tisti,” je dejal Cvetrežnik in je prav imel. Samo Tini se je zdelo, da nekaj sluti in je skočila zvečer k Zlatoperju, ker je vedela, da ni Toneta doma. Našla je Zlatoperko samo. “Oh, Tina,” se je razveselila dekleta Zlatoperova mati, “kaj pa tebe prinese?” “Obiskat sem vas prišla, mati," je odvrnila Tina in lagala, da jo je oče poslal po Toneta. “Glej ga, kaj ga ni pri vas?" je vprašala žena. Tina je mencala, da ga najbrže ni videla, ali pa da sta se zgrešila. Zlatoperka je položila pred dekle kos domačega hleba in je rekla, da ji bi še kave skuhala, pa se je Tina hudo branila. “Kaj se boš branila," je odvrnila žena, “kadar pridem jaz k vam, jo boš pa ti meni!" In ji je skuhala kave in Tina je kavo zelo hvalila in se močno prikupila ženi. Potem sta ženi pokramljali o zvonovih, od zvonov sta zašle na domačega sina in njegovo zdravje. “Oh,” je potožila mati, “naš Tone je nekam čuden postal. Malo j6, pa molčeč je postal in še na ženitev nič ne misli." Tina si je dala opraviti s predpasnikom, tam kjer je bil najbolj trden, da se li ne pregloje. In še prehlajenje je hlinila in silila kašelj. “Kašljaš!” se je ustrašila Zlatoperka, ki se je za ves svet bala, da ji je sin bolan in je moral fant piti slednji večer najrazličnejše čaje, bezgov, lipov in grenki mahov. KAPELICA NA FARI - STARA LOKA Zvonovi zvonite na delo budite, ker prazno je delo brez sreče z neba. "Vi mladi ljudje se nič ne varujete," je dejala, “naš Tone je prav tak. Nič več prida ni zadnja leta. Prej je pel, zdaj se mu še govoriti ne ljubi več. Bolan je, bolan!" Ženica, suha ko trs, je bila gotovo manj zdrava nego Tone, ki je bil rdeč in trd ko jeklo. Zato se Tina ni nič kaj ustrašila in je dejala: “Če ne poje, bo že pel!" “Bog ve," je odvrnila žena in dostavila plaho in skrivnostno: “Se mi je sanjalo, da smo že imeli nove zvonove. Pa prav našemu Tonetu so zapeli prvikrat.” “Sanje nič ne pomenijo,” se je zdaj Tina vendarle ustrašila. “Ne pomenijo, ne," je dejala neverno Zlatoperka in vzdihnila. In po nekaj hipih molka je vprašala: “Kaj pa pri vas? Mati so slabi!" “Slabi!” “Dolgčas jim je, ker radi kaj slišijo.” “O, zdaj jim ni," je odvrnila Tina. "Kacafura iz Bače jim dela kratek čas. Pa je dedec ves hinavski, jaz vem!" “Glej jo no, pa pravijo, da ga vzameš!” “Jaz pa Kacafuro!” se je zasmejalo dekle, “preje Kramarja iz Mosta." “I, no, naš mi je pravil,” je skomiznila Zlatoperka. “Tone ne ve nič!" je rekla Tina. In tako sta se ženi ločili. Zvečer pa je rekla mati sinu, ki je prišle kmalu za Tino: “Ti, ne vem, kje kvante pobiraš. Petačevo si ob-rekel, da vzame Kacafuro, pa ga mara dedca, prav kakor Kramarja iz Mosta." “Kaj res?” se je začudil Tone. In še tistega večera ga je slišala mati smejati se in peti tisto prešerno o klančku, vrančku in vozniku, in na Sveto goro se je obljubila, da mu le prvemu ne bodo zvonili novi zvonovi. Prav tiste hipe, ko se je Tina mudila pri Zlatoperki, je zabaval pri Petaču Kacafura staro Petačko. Bil je danes izredno bogat najgrozovitejših novic o ciklonih, potresnih, požarih in o novih duhovnih in strahovih. Povedal je o skopuhu, ki je hodil nazaj denar štet, in so potem našli, ko so grob prekopali, polna usta zlata. Kaj da so s tem zlatom naredili, da-li ga niso dali za maše, je hotela vedeti Petačka. Da ne, je dejal Kacafura, ker ni bilo pravo zlato, nego oglje. “Oglje!" je kriknila tako čudno Petačka, da se je Kacafura iz čudnega vzroka strašno vznemiril. Šele čez par hipov se je zavedel in začel pripovedovati o nekem drugem skopuhu, ki pa da se je svojega skopuštva še pred smrtjo skesal in tako rešil in bil obsojen samo v veliko število let vicanja. “En hrib je. Vsako leto prileti drobna ptička in odnese en kamenček. Kadar bo ves hrib raznosila, bo rešen!" je zaključil, in ona ga je prijela za roko. In tedaj se je mož raznežil in dejal: “Oh, mati, kako se midva tako lepo razumeva!" “Kakor brat pa sestra!” je odvrnila Petačka vsa ginjena. In zaupno je nastavila: “Pa ne le jaz, tudi moja hči Tina vas spoštuje in zelo časti in je vsa srečna." “Ali je res? Ali je to mogoče?” je igral mož na odru z vso darovitostjo skromnega snubca. “Vprašajte jo, boste videli, gospod Kacafura,” je rekla žena, “saj to tudi ni, da bi tak gospod ostal samec.” “Čakam,” je dejal on, “ni vsaka zame!” “O, ni ne,” je odvrnila, “redkokateraje vas vredna." In mati je začela nato hvaliti svojo Tino, kako da je skrbna in pridna, in postrani je omenila, da je edina in da pri Petaču tudi nekaj premorejo. Kacafuri so se začele oči svetiti od samega začudenja in sreče in zdaj se je tudi on osokolil in dejal, da je on sicer preprost trgovec ali da bo, če se bo kdaj ženil, gledal predvsem na to, da dobi pridno in pošteno ženo, in da mu za denar ni. “To se reče,” se je popravil čez hip, da mu sicer res ni za denar, da pa je seveda denar v trgovini dobra reč, kjer je treba plačati zdaj sto, zdaj dvesto, zdaj petsto naenkrat, in da on pozna trgovce, ki so milijonarji, pa včasih nimajo doma, da bi si pipo tobaka kupili. Kaj da bi o tem govorili, je odvrnila Petačka, da ona dobro ve, kako je to. In tako ga je opogumila, da ji je zaupal, da on že davno misli na Tino, in da je zdaj dozorel v njem sklep, in da jo bo poprosil roke. Ginjena je objela Petačka trgovca in rekla: “Vidiš, zdaj ti še ‘vi’ ne rečem več, moj sin!” V tem razpoloženju sta vzela slovo, preden je prišla Tina. Drugi dan pa je dobila Tina v rožnatem ovitku droben in dišeč list, na katerem je prosil Kacafura, ali bi hotela zaupati “svoj brod njegovemu krmila vajenemu vodstvu,” ali bi hotela . bodoče biti gospa Kacafura, in dalje, da ji poljubuje roko tako vroče, tako prisrčno. Vpričo matere se je Tina zasmejala, vrgla ovitek in list v ogenj in celo roko je skrila pod predpasnik kakor da se boji, da ji je ne poljubi v resnici Kacafura tako vroče, tako prisrčno. Na velikih parizarjih so bili pripeljali iz Gorice nove zvonove in jih dvignili raz vozove, da jih potegnejo v višino, odkoder naj oznanjajo čast božjo in farno vsem tujcem, Trebušarjem in zavidnim Mostarjem. Tistega leta je bilo, ko je delil nadškof po gorenji tolminski dolini zakrament sv. birme. Gospod Lužnik so sicer bili trd gospod, pa so hoteli svojim faranom napraviti posebno slavje. Pred domačo cerkvijo naj bi sam visoki gospod nadškof krstili in blagoslovili zvonove. Zlatoper je vozil največji zvon iz Gorice in pozdravljal z vestjo: “Pogana peljem, v soboto ga bomo krstili, v ned-jeljo bo že pel.” Na predvečer slavja pa je dejal župnik Lužnik svoji kuharici: “Tisti evangelij jutri pri krstu poslušaj!" In Marta je obljubila in še pohvaljena se je čutila, ker ni vedela, da se v istem evangeliju bere o skrbni Marti in sestri Mariji, ki je izvolila boljši del. Čudovito lep poletni dan je bil. Po dolini se je le bleščalo od svetlobe. Kot srebrnozelen pas je objemala Idrijca pokošene travnike in polja zlatega žita. Lahek jutranji veter je vel od Trebuše doli in poigraval v zastavah in zelenju, ki se je dičila z njim cerkev in slednja hiša. Rano zgodaj, ko se še niso bili oglasili zadnji petelini, so počili topiči, da se je razleglo po dolini in tja gori proti “Občnarju” na Vratih in sem doli proti Mostu, Modreju in Logu. Nešteto seje zgrinjalo ljudstva od vseh strani. Prišli so Šebrejci v svojih okovanih čevljih, z visokimi petami, prišli Trebušarji z upognjenimi koleni, ker so bili vajeni lesti v hrib, prišli so Poličani od Šentviške gore, oni isti, ki gre glas o njih, da so povsod znani. Prišli so previdni Mostarji in ponosni Bačarji in Modrejani, ki še svojih vislic tujcem ne privoščijo, z njimi so prišli Ložani in Lomnjani, ki na oslih na Most v mlin nosijo, celo Benečanji so prišli, oni isti, ki kostanj na Tolminsko nosijo prodajat. Med vsemi temi pa samo enega ni bilo — trgovca Kacafura iz Bače, da bi se bil pobahal s svojo zlato uro, zlato verižico in zlatimi prstani. Nekaj so gnali Bačarji, da je pred nekaj dnevi zaprl prodajalno in izginil, in da zdaj orožniki po njem povprašujejo. Toda te vesti so jedva slišno udarjale na površje vpričo slovesnega pomenka o zvonovih. Ob osmih se je strnila množica ob cerkvi. Med gromom topičev je prišel nadškof v spremstvu duhovnikov pred cerkev, kjer je viselo na mogočnih vrveh in vergah troje ogromnih zvonov. Čudovito je bilo ljudem pri srcu vpričo nepojmovanih molitev in pesmi. Zdelo se je, ko da orjaški zvonovi niso mrtev bron, nego živa bitja, otroci, in kakor deca so krščeni in še slovesneje. Kakor troje orjaških poveznjenih src so bila ta telesa, žareča v ognju sonca. In res so bila srca, krščena na imena farnih svetnikov, srca, ki naj oznanjajo bol in radost cele srenje, ki naj plakajo s plakajočim in se vesele z veselim. Skrivnostno mehko je zvenel vladiki glas, ko je molil: Bog, ki si ukazal po Mojzesu, postavonoscu, Tvojemu služabniku, napraviti srebrne trombe, da s sladkostjo njih glasu pripravljajo, Tvojo sveto službo opravljajoči s večen ki, ljudstvo za Tvoje počaščen je in ga zbirajo k praznovanju božje službe in ga opominjaju k boju, da zlomi naskok sovragov, prosimo Te, daj, da bo ta Tvoji sveti Cerkvi vliti zvon blagoslovljen po Svetem Duhu in da bo s svojim glasom vabil vern ke k molitvi. Kadar koli bi se razlegala pesem zvonov v njih ušesih, naj raste v ljudstvu ponižnost vere. Beže naj daleč vse sovražnosti, sovragi, šiba toče, vihar vrtincev, naval neviht, ublaži naj se grom, vetrov sunki naj se poležejo in umirijo. Čudovita ginjenost se je polastila ljudi. Mnogi so plakali. Mnogi, ki so zanje zbirali, jih niso učakali. Razmaknile so se množice in zastrmele v nebeško diven prizor. Zakričali so škripci, zarožljale verige, vzbrnele vrvi in se napele. Votlo je jeknilo in trepetalo in zvon za zvonom se je dvignil in plaval vse više, vse više, in izginil od krepkih in vajenih zvonarjevih rok dvignjen v cerkvene line. “Saj ne bo še nič danes z zvonenjem,” je šepetnil Cvetrežnik. “Bo, bo," je odvrnil Zlatoper. In Močilar ga je sunil pod rame: “Si jih le dočakal, Tone!” “Sem," je zardel Zlatoperju obraz. Tisti hip je tam gori sinila bela zastava, topiči so počili. Iz lin doli je jeknilo prvikrat jeklo ob bron, ne še polnoglasno ali ubrano. In potem so jeknili zvonovi. In ko je razširil vladika roke in pel: “Te Deum laudamus!” tedaj so zazveneli zvonovi v čudovito pesem, kakor bi jokalo troje orjaških src od sreče in miline. Par ur pozneje so sedeli s škofom za obedno mizo v župnišču Petač, ki je naravnost govoril in brez ovinkov, in ki zdaj sploh ni govoril, in ob njem je sedel Močilar, še vedno ključar, in četrti je sedel Anton Zlatoper. Tedaj so se dvignili domači gospod župnik, in so rekli, da čast komur čast, pa da gre predvsem pohvala Antonu Zlatoperju, ki daje dal zadnji stotak. “Saj ga je lahko, če s mu je pa za poroko mudilo!" je pripomnil Močilar, ne pomislivši na dvoumnost izgovorjenega. “Kako to?" so prišli gospod Lužnik vpričo škofa v veliko zadrego. “Tako,” je razlagal Močilar, “ker je obljubil, da se ne bo ženil, dokler ne zapoje novi zvon.” “Ali se zdaj bo?" je vprašal župnik. “Če me bo marala,” je dejal skromno Tone in zatajil Tino, ki mu je po maši rekla, da naj pride snubit. Tedaj so se gospod Lužnik zasmejali in tudi vsi drugi so se smejali. Edini vladika se je samo dostojanstveno nasmehnil in pripomnil: "Zlatoper, kako čudno ime, toda lepo!” In kaj je bilo potem? Ali je vredno da povem, da sta se Tina in Tone vzela in da se je celo mati Petačka končno sprijaznila z mislijo na Zlatoperja, ki ji je kupil debele bukve od samih strahov. Tudi Kacafuro je pozabila in še huda je bila nanj, češ da ni prišel po slovo. Petač — Urban Kozorog — pa je povedal naravnost in brez ovinkov, kakor je mislil: “Potep je hotel, da bi mu tudi jaz za dva tisoč menico podpisal, kakor bi bil jaz na glavo padel. Saj nisem naša mati, ki vsaki čenči veruje!" Idrijski zvonovi pa pojo, pojo čudovito. Idrijčani niso zastonj ponosni nanje. Pa so jim Mostarji še vedno zavidni in jih dražijo: “Zvonove imate, ker vam jih je pol plačal Zlatoper. Kdo vam bo zdaj orgle kupil?” Idrijčani so mnenja, da imajo zaenkrat njihova dekleta dober glas in da lahko pojo brez orgel, moški sami pa, da v cerkvi sploh raje molijo nego bi peli. Zlatoper pa še vedno vozi v Gorico. Sicer manj, odkar teče mimo železnica, zato pa vozi s seboj debelušnega fantiča, katerega mati vedno težko pogreši, in ki očetu bič drži in kratek čas dela. “FOR THE YOUNG AT HEART” | , DAVY'S COLUMN L==ll =ll =II==L Memories The best part of Christmas, to me, is the memories. The best memories, I have, are those with my family. To me, that’s what Christmas is all about. One of my most fondest memories is the time before each Christmas, when my two sisters and I got to help decorate the Christmas cookies. The kitchen would be toasty warm from the oven being on. It didn’t matter if it was snowing, raining or both. The air would be filled with delicious aromas. My sisters and I would gather around the table, each with our own container of sprinkles. Just as we would finish decorating, dad would come into the kitchen and declare himself "Official Taster." (Naturally, no one aruged.) I remember one Christmas, when mom found a recipe for cookie ornaments ot be hung on the tree. The recipe called for flour, water, and a lot of salt. We cut the ornaments out with my mother’s cookie cutters. We had a star, a Christmas tree and Santa Claus. Once the cookies cooled we painted them. Well, just as the cookies came out of the oven and placed on the wooden board to cool, right on cue, dad came into the kitchen and proclaimed himself “Official Taster.” Simultaneously, we all screamed at my dad to stop. I think the fact that everyone protested was the reason he stopped. It went against...tradition. Whatever reason he stopped and we were all glad he did. (He would have broken his teeth!) After we explained that the cookies weren’t edible, we all had a good laugh. Each Christmas, we still hang those ornaments up on our Christmas tree and each Christmas we laugh when someone says, “Remember when dad tried to eat one these.” I hope this Christmas is filled with many happy and joyful memories for you and yours to share in the following years. Merry Christmas and God Bless. 'Til Next Year DAVY RIDDLES & SAYINGS by Paul Nusko, age 9 and Raelyn Nusko, age 7, members of Br. 2, Chicago, IL. They love their school -St. Stephen’s. SANTA CLAUS IS ON HIS WAY SOON HE WILL BE HERE TO SAY, MERRY CHRISTMAS TO YOU AND HAPPY NEW YEAR, TOO! (Paul) 1. Which planet is like a circus? Saturn, because it has 3 rings. 2. What do computers eat as a snack? Microchips. 3. Who leads the popcorn? The kernel (colonel). 4. Why did the boy put his father in the freezer? He wanted to get a popcicle. 5. Where does a fish sleep? In a waterbed. I LOVE YOU. (Raelyn) What do we have in December and not in any other month? The letter D. The big chimney said to the little one: You are too small to smoke. Did you hear about the fight on the bus last night? The driver punched the transfer. MARK NUSKO BR. 2 - CHICAGO Holy Santa Claus 1. White cap, long beard, warm fur coat, heaped basket. Oh, already he is among us good, dear holy Santa Claus. 2. Be happy, children but Santa Claus likes to have us Just have courage and tell him what we have learned. 3. Promising you, that good we always want to be, Dad, Mommy, we love you and want to make you happy. 3 Varieties: Old World Strudel Bread • Apple • Cream Cheese • Original English Walnut VARIETY PACKAGE 3 mini 4 oz. loaves of each filling Lg. Povotica 24 oz. of your choice Oflly $12.95 Per pack loaf Please send: □ Variety Package Lg. 24 oz. □ English Walnut □ Cream Cheese D Apple Total S_____________________________________ Payment type: □ Check/Money Order Exp. ____ D Visa □ MC □ Discovery Card H I r? & tk & ZAK FUNERAL HOME ZACHARY A. ZAK Funeral Director “OVER 100 YEARS OF DEDICATED SERVICE” 6016 ST. CLAIR AVENUE CLEVELAND, OHIO 44103 (216) 361-3112 361-3113 Video Cassettes New Publications in English Language Slovenian Records Books * Publications Slovenian Mementos in glass, ceramic, wood TIVOLI ENTERPRISES 6419 St. Clair Ave. Cleveland, OH 44103 (216) 431-5296 Our Sincerest, Warmest, Best Wishes from the officers and members of Branch 50, Cleveland, Ohio to all members and out-of-towners, too, for a Happy and Blessed Holiday Season and a Healthy, New Year, 1990! g\lerry (JJirislmas ! 'jlappy jVew ‘•Year! 2ND CLASS POSTAGE PAID CHICAGO ILLINOIS (T Ermenc-McLeod Funeral Home 5325 W. Greenfield Ave. Phone: 327-4500 Milwaukee, Wisconsin ZEFRAN FUNERAL HOME Louis Ron Zefran Frank J Zefran Marilyn E. Zefran Lois M. Zefran 1941 West Cermak Road Chicago, IL 60608 847-6688 TEZAK FUNERAL 459 North Ottawa Street HOME Joliet, IL 60432 First in service since 1908 Phone 722-0524 5= i HABERMANN Funeral Home 805 N. 6th Street Sheboygan, WI 53081 / International Laser Graphic* 4851 South Drexel Boulevard Chicago, Illinois 60615 (312) 373-0500 Fast, efficient computer communication, typesetting & interface FirSt Siji Midwest '^jjjjr Bank Illinois National Association 50 W. Jefferson Street Member F.D.I.C. Joliet, Illinois 60431 815-727-5222 ^ —# Slovenian-International Cookbook POTS & PANS $9.00 Books on Slovenian Immigrants and Pioneers FROM SLOVENIA TO AMERICA $5.00 hardbound — $3.50 soft bound FOOTSTEPS THROUGH TIME $6.00 ROŽE Z MOJIH VRTOV (FLOWERS FROM MY GARDENS) $8.50 Add $1.50postage A handling per book Make checks payable to and send order to: Slovenian Women’s Union, 431 No. Chicago St., Joliet, IL 60432 IT S ,N CANVAS TOTEBAGS! EVERY ------------------------- STCsOjNlfiN sfwpi $7.00 plus $1.50 p & h Send your order to: Slovenian Women’s Union 431 NO. Chicago St., Joliet, ILL. 60432 ZELE FUNERAL HOMES, INC. TWO COMPLETE FUNERAL HOMES 452 East 152nd St. 6502 St. Clair Ave. Office 481-3118 Cleveland, Ohio 361-0583 GRDINA FUNERAL HOMES CLEVELAND, OHIO 17010 Lake Shore Blvd. 531-6300 1053 East 62nd St. 431-2088