SLOVENIAN WOMEN'S UNION OF AMERICA
ZARJA - THE DA WN DATES TO REMEMBER
(ISSN 0044-184«)
Postmaster: Send all changes of address to : ZARJA — THE DAWN, 2032 W. Cermak Rd., Chicago, IL 60608
NO. 10	DECEMBER,	1987	VOLUME	59
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:SLO V ENI A N WOMEN'S UNION OF AMERICA 431 No. Chicago St., Joliet, I L 60432 Telephone (815) 727-1936
Second Class Postage paid at Chicago, IL AII 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 1. v mesecu.
Editor, CORINNE LESKOVAR Editorial Office, 2032 W. Cermak Rd., Chicago, IL 60608 Telephone (3J2J 841-6679
■INHIIIIMHHIHIIUaill
tlMMMMHM*MMNIMMIHIHIHI»«nilltHHIIM4IMUHftllHH*NMIW«ni
HAPPY BIRTHDAY IN JANUARY
National Officer:
Jan. 6 - Irene Odorizzi, Cultural Heritage Officer, Reston, VA
Presidents:
Jan. 2 - Kay Yuratovac, Br. 73, Warrensville Hgts., OH
Jan. 4 - Elizabeth Kinder, Br. 22, Bradley, IL Jan. 11 - Frances Corel, Br. 93, Brooklyn, NY Jan. 11 - Kathleen Podobnik, Br. 96, Universal, PA Jan. 19 - Martina Michals, Br. 19, Eveleth, MN Jan. 23 - Mary Mundson, Br. 47, Garfield Hgts., OH
Secretaries:
Jan. 5 - Mary Jackovich, Br. 28, Calumet, Ml Jan. 12 - Mary Krall, Br. 37, Greaney, MN Jan. 14 - Virginia Zevkovich, Br. 57, Niles, OH Jan. 18 - Mary Swaggard, Br. 6, Barberton, OH Jan. 20 - Angela Mobilia, Br. 23, Ely, MN Jan. 24 - Mary Slaney, Br. 26, Pittsburgh, PA
Dec. 3- Br. 2, Chicago, IL, Mass for Ailing Members, 8 a.m. St. Stephen’s Church Dec. 13 - Br. 35, Aurora, MN, Heritage Day - Bake Sale
Dec. 15 - Br. 50, Cleveland, OH, “Christmas Lights” Tour
Dec. 17 - BUS-THEATRETRIP,Br. 33, Duluth, MN Dec. 29 - Br. 42, Maple Hgts., OH, Christmas Tour
BRANCHES’ CHRISTMAS PARTIES
Br. 38, Chisholm, MN Br. 52, KitzviUe, MN Br. 13, San Francisco, CA Br. 2, Chicago, IL CHILDREN’S PARTY Br. 47, Garfield Hgts., OH Br. 40, Lorain, OH Br. 55, Girard, OH Br. 95, So. Chicago, IL Combined Branches of Cleveland, OH Br. 2, Chicago, IL ADULT PARTY Br. 16, So. Chicago, IL Br. 22, Bradley, IL Br. 35, Aurora, MN Br. 50, Cleveland, OH Br. 1, Sheboygan, WI Br. 43, Milwaukee, WI Br. 54, Warren, OH Br. 32, Euclid, OH Twirlettes of Cleveland, OH Br. 17, West Allis, WI Br. 20, Joliet, IL
HAPPY BIRTHDAY IN DECEMBER
Presidents:
Dec.	5	-	Rose Marie Streckel,	Br. 26, Pittsburgh, PA
Dec.	14	-	Josephine Mohorčič,	Br. 25, Cleveland, OH
Dec. 15 - Victoria Volk, Br. 99, Elmhurst, IL Dec. 21 - Mary Mihelich, Br. 79, Enumclaw, WA Dec. 28 - Agnes Tomazic, Br. 40, Lorain, OH Dec. 30 - Jennie Gerk, Br. 47, Garfield Hts., OH Dec.	31	-	Josephine Kapla, Br.	81, Keewatin, MN
Dec.	31	-	Frances Vidmar, Br.	83, Crosby, MN
Secretaries:
Dec. 9 - Elizabeth Birk, Br. 84, New York, NY Dec. 9 - Julia Trowbridge, Br. 100, Fontana, CA Dec. 25 - Jennie Mayasich, Br. 65, Virginia, MN Dec. 29 - Marge Church, Br. 42, Maple Hgts., OH
Dec.	2
Dec.	2
Dec.	3
Dec.	6
Dec.	6
Dec.	8
Dec.	9
Dec.	9
Dec.	9
Dec.	10
Dec.	10
Dec.	13
Dec.	13
Dec.	13
Dec.	15
Dec.	15
Dec.	15
Dec.	16
Dec.	18
Dec.	18
Dec.	20
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
II5 4 7 5 8
A TIME FOR GIVING
After attending four of the Regional Conventions of the Slovenian Women’s Union this fall, I have evaluated the strengths and weaknesses of the business meetings. These are general guidelines which should be implemented: 1) The branch president or delegate should be seated up front near the presiding officer. 2) Branch reports should be informative but brief. 3) Each branch president must be prepared to submit a detailed written report to the Regional President. 4) The Regional President in turn must submit a condensed report of the combined branches’ yearly activities plus the minutes of the business meeting and the festivities of the day of the convention. Three copies should be made; one copy to the National President, one copy to the National Secretary for her files, and one copy to the Editor of ZARJA for publication within two weeks of your convention. 5) Always sign your name to your report. 6) The importance of attending the business meetings must be stressed in your pre-convention correspondence. This is the “nuts and bolts” of any organization and it will only be as good as YOU, the members, make it. 7) Membership should be stressed at the conventions as it is one of the Regional President’s prime responsibilities. 8) Compilation of the Constitution and By-law revisions and important business from the National Convention or National Board meetings should be reported; e.g., Class B - changed between the ages of 56 - 65 years inclusive. (Was 56 - 60 years). Social - 66 years of age
or older beginning January 1, 1988. (Was 61 years of age or older).
At this time congratulations are in order to the seven SWU Scholarship winners. May God bless you in your future endeavors in whatever fields of education you may pursue. Scholarships should be an incentive for membership; our five yearly $1000.00 scholarships plus special scholarships are given and now we have added the $500.00 Vo-tech scholarship. The Illinois Fraternal Congress will be giving a $1,000.00 scholarship which our Junior members shall be entitled to apply for as this is a newly created scholarship for all fratemals. Details will be forthcoming at a later date. Secondly, the prizes for the new members enrolled are super incentives! Thirdly, the enjoyment of common goals and the friendships of our people is another incentive. And last but not least is the promotion of our culture and rich heritage in customs, recipes and experiences.
The holiday season is here — a time for prayer, preparation, parties and programs. Christmas is the giving of yourself, helping the poor and the hungry, and visiting the sick and the lonely. Give the gift of TIME; a visit means more than any gift of monetary value. If we’d only remember, God made us to know Him, to love Him, to serve Him and to serve others. Best wishes for a most blessed and joyous Christmas! May God love you!
Victoria “Tory” Bobence
Vesele Božične Praznike—Merry Christmas!
December 19 marks the sixty-first birthday of our Zveza. Throughout the past year, there were a variety of celebrations marking the six decades of loving friendships, dedication and accomplishments. Our exciting and memorable 20th national convention held in May was the highpoint of our festivities.
Tory’s Garden is being readied for a crop of new members, enriching our present-day membership. Help our president cultivate a beautiful prize-winning floral garden with your daughters, relatives and friends.
At the close of another year we extend our deepest appreciation to the hard-working and precious officers and members.
Christmas is for remembering all those at a distance,
Greeting all those who are near, and
Fraying for the Lord’s special blessing upon you each day of the year.
SREČNO NOVO LETO HAPPY NEW YEAR!
Olga Ancel, National Secretary Sylvia Vukodinovich, National Treasurer
Close up of Staut’s Slovenian Christmas tree ornaments.
Wisconsin State Convention Report
Wisconsin State Convention and 60th Anniversary was held on Oct. 11th at St. John’s Evangelist Church. The Slovenian Women’s Union of Br. 12,. officers and members, did a terrific job hosting the convention!
Coffee and doughnuts were served with the aid of our kitchen help.
Meeting was called to order at 9:30 a.m. by Stavia Dobersek, Regional President. Introductions of officers followed. Tory Bobence, National President, Hermine Dicke, Scholarship Fund Chairman and Marion Marolt, National Auditor were present. Joan Yaklich of Br. 17 read the Minutes of the last convention in Sheboygan and also took the Minutes of this convention.
Delegates from Br. 1, Br. 12, Br. 17, Br. 43, read their questionnaires. Br. 102 of Willard sent a report that was read by Stavia. We were sorry they could not attend. Discussions were open and Tory Bobence did a good job of handling the questions.
Elections were held for State President. Elected was Joan Yaklich, secretary of Br. 17. As Vice-President, we elected Mary Kiel of Br. 12.
Br. 17 of West Allis will be hosts for the 1988 convention. Thanks to Ruth Sheck, President of Br. 1, Aggie Gruenke, Rec. Secretary and Pat Slapnik of Sheboygan, for being dressed in their Slovenian costumes for this occasion.
Mass was at 11:00 a.m. given by Fr. Thaddeus Trpin. The church choir sang Slovenian songs.
Dinner was served at 1:00 p.m. and homemade poticas and strudels were our dessert. Many members baked and we thank them for their generosity. Toastmaster, John Frangesh greeted everyone and did a great job of handling the events that followed.
Our 60 year members, Mary Bucovnik, Veronica
itdaxd’i. dfizLi-tmai. is. cSHovznLan!
Mary Staut, our fine officer of Br. 102 in Willard, Wisconsin and delegate to the recent National Convention (Her photos of convention and Willard activities, taken by husband Vitko, graced several issues of ZARJA. — Thank you!), likes to share her town’s Christmas with us this month. She says:
“Willard is really very heritage-mined and we are trying very much to preserve the Slovenian language, customs and traditions, by getting the younger generations to participate. Hopefully, this will not all be forgotten.
Our Br. 102 has a smaller tree with similar Slovenian articles displayed each year at the December meeting, hopefully again this year.”
We can see that the townsfolk of Willard are going to have a wonderful Christmas!
Visek and 50 year member, Ann Kostanjevic were honored. Jean Jelenc of Br. 12 was honored as Fratemalist of the Year. Jean was always on hand, donating and giving of herself in helping our Br. 12.
The USPEH Chorus, under the direction of Delores Ivanchich sang our favorite Slovenian songs which everyone enjoyed.
It was a day well spent and I’m sure everyone had a good time. I also want to thank those who helped me during my four years as State President which I truly enjoyed.
Stavia Dobersek
I	was sorry to learn of the passing of Mary Ermenc. Not only was she a patron of the arts and the Slovenian tradition, Mary generously supported higher education for several organizations as well. Since 1969, Mayme and her husband, Frank (deceased in 1978), contributed generously to the Slovenian Women's Union Scholarship Fund. According to my records both she and her husband donated an outstanding total of $1,760.
Marion Marolt, President of Branch No. 17, informed me that Branch No. 17 of Milwaukee, in 1978, recognized Mary as an honorary member for her active and continued interest in preserving the Slovenian culture. Mayme died at the age of 85 on August 27, 1987.
We extend our sympathy to her sister, Fran Widemsek, and four brothers: Louis, Anton, James and Frank Verbick.
Sincerely,
Hermine Dicke, Director S.W.U. Scholarship Fund
ayme IP laneno
New members like Ann Dolgan will receive medals at the Christmas SWU Twirlettes parade van shows Joy Lewin’s sash is bedecked with Party.	some	of	their trophies.	medals	she	has	earned.
SWU TWIRLETTES END OF SEASON REPORT
The last time we told a little about the SWU Twirlettes of Euclid, Ohio, it was mid-way through marching season. Since then, the girls stepped and twirled in 13 more parades, capturing first place in 12 of them. The SWU Twirlettes and Color Guard marched in parades of Eastlake Community Days, Highland Heights Family Fun Days, Canal Fulton Old Canal Days, Mayfield Village Days, Strongsville Homecoming, Amherst Potato Festival, Madison Old Fashioned Days, North Royalton Festival, Mentor-on-the Lake Labor Day, Willoughby Frontier Days, Better Mentor Days, Geneva Grape Jamboree, and Kent State University Homecoming. There is only one parade left on the 1987 agenda, the Cleveland Christmas Parade.
The culmination of the year’s activities will be the Christmas Dinner, December 18 at Slovenian Society Home. The girls will receive awards based on the number of parades they marched in that the Corps won. In other
words, for each 1st place, she will receive a medal. In addition, Tim Mathis, director, and Mary Gentile, baton instructor, will put their heads together and select outstanding members to receive trophies.
The number of first places awarded to the SWU Twirlettes in parades this year was outstanding. The leaders are to be commended for teaching, and organizing the schedule. The young girls and boys of the color guard are to be complimented for their baton twirling abilities and marching talents. The amount of time spent practicing still makes the difference in doing one's best.
Some other projects the Twirlettes participated in were selling candy and a Spaghetti Dinner. The proceeds will go toward new uniforms (first in 14 years). The new practice location is Lakeland Community College, on Monday nights.
Cecilia Dolgan
Member, Branch 50
Getting the Twirlettes “warmed up" before a parade is the job of Mary Gentile, baton instructor (in shorts). Tammie Mathis is on the left.
TWIRLETTES %
ILLINOIS-INDIANA STATE CONVENTION SUNDAY, OCTOBER 4, 1987 Br. 95, South Chicago, Illinois, Hostess
IHIIIimilllHIIIHHIIIIIItHIIHHIIIIIHMIIIIIIIIMIIHHIItlllllllMIIIMIHHIIIIIimmiHIMHHHHIIIIIIMmMIMHIIIIIIIIIItlHHHIMIIHMIIMiHHIIIItlMIMmillllHIHIMIHIIItllllllllHIIHHHIIIHIIIIIIIIMIIItllllMIMIIIIimiHHIIIIIimillMIIIIHIIIIimill
A beautiful sunny day was made just for us on our yearly State Convention on Sunday, October 4, 1987.
Beginning with coffee hour from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at the Sacred Heart Church Hall, ladies then assembled in a body and entered into the Sacred Heart Croatian Church, led by our National President Victoria Bobence, National Treasurer Sylvia Vukodinovich, Illinois-Indiana Regional President Angela Nico and our Branch 95 President, Mary Brozynski.
Celebrant was Father Paul Maslach, OFM. The reader was Mildred James. Ministers of the Cup were Charlotte Fryza and Lottie Brklajacic. The Gift Bearers were: Victoria Bobence, Angela Nico, Sylvia Vukodinovich and Mary Brozynski. The organist was Sister Deanne (daughter of Phyllis and John Tumpich); we also had an adult choir.
During Father’s sermon he wished all the ladies well and to continue the work they are doing to preserve our heritage and culture, just like St. Francis of Assisi, who is a patron saint of the worker. "Bless all the ladies of this organization for all their work.”
Hymn sung at the presentation of the gifts was the traditional Slovenian hymn "Angelsko Češčenje”, for the Communion the lovely Croatian hymn “Ljepa, Si Ljepa” and the recessional hymn, our even-beautiful hymn “How Great Thou Art”. The entire congregation joined in singing all the hymns; it sounded so beautiful. Our closing prayer included “Hail Holy Queen” and Our Lady of Bistrika, Pray For Us.
All the officers, delegates, members and friends then assembled at the Jovial Club (A Croatian Restaurant), owned by Joe and Helen Spelich. Helen is one of our members. A delicious meal was enjoyed by all.
Before the dinner was served, our Chairlady Amelia Cuzella extended a cordial welcome to all officers, members and guests for spending a Sunday afternoon with us. “We hope you will find this convention interesting and enjoyable." The officers at the head table were introduced. Our President of Branch 95 gave her welcoming speech; “As we the members of Branch 95 of the Slovenian Women’s Union welcome you to our annual Illinois-Indiana Convention, we hope you have a pleasant visit with old friends and find many new ones. We sincerely hope we have a successful and productive convention. Thank you for being here.”
Father was asked to give the invocation: “The way I hear it, you are doing a wonderful job. So congratulations. God bless you and I hope you continue to do this work for your Union and for your people. Now, let us say a short prayer. Our Heavenly Father we ask you to Bless all who are present here today and as we reflect, we thank you for the good members you have given us in the past, those good members who are not with us today, for they have given us all their effort, their talent and their resources. We are here to work for the best interest of one another and our Union. We ask you to bless our Union. Bless all the leaders of our Union and delegates who are present that they wisely lead us in the right direction. Bless all the people who have prepared and have worked on it well. Bless the food that we are to
partake, we ask this thru Christ your Son who lives and reigns on you for ever and ever. Amen. God Bless you all and have a good dinner and a good afternoon.”
Father Maslach excused himself as he was unable to have dinner with us; he was leaving for Lemont to visit the Sisters as today was the “Feast of St. Francis of Assisi” (founder of the “Order of Friars Minor” — O.F.M.) Pledge to the Flag was then recited by all.
At 2:45 p.m. the business meeting was called to order by Angela Nico. Angela greeted all the officers, delegates, members and friends and stated hope for a smooth convention; also “Dober Dan” to all. Corinne Leskovar, Editor of the ZARJA, led us in prayer “Hail Mary” in Slovenian. Being that many of the ladies did not know the words, Angela will try and get a copy of the prayer in Slovenian for all our members. A big hand was given to Branch 95 for hosting this wonderful convention.
Newly elected National President gave her warm greetings and said she was happy to attend our yearly convention to be here with all women and men. And knew it will be an interesting convention.
National Secretary, Olga Ancel; “Hello to all” and thanked Branch 95 for hosting this convention.
National Treasurer Sylvia Vukodinovich also thanked Branch 95 for doing a marvelous job hosting the convention, and as for the Treasurer’s report said we are stable in our finances.
Directory of Women’s Activities, Frances Morison, stated we are fortunate and blessed to have a museum in Joliet. “Let us support it financially and with artifacts which are always appreciated. You are always welcome to visit the Heritage Museum, so do come and see us. “She also thanked all for being here, stated her husband is in the hospital (sends his love to all). Interesting activities are in the planning for the youth. Also, “Let us try to preserve our heritage with unity and faith. Let us sustain love and friends to keep ourS.W.U.God Bless every one.”
Angela Nico, Regional President for Illinois-Indiana, presided at the recent State Convention in South Chicago. Nat’l President, Victoria Bobence and Mildred Cuzella of Br. 95 are seen in the rear; in front are Angie, Mary Briznski, president of hostess Branch 95, and Frances Benkovich, Convention Recording Secretary.
Mary Muller, our National Auditor has moved here from Arizona. She is also our past National President. Mary stated we should all help our new President Victoria as she is a fantastic person.
National Editor of the ZARJA, Corinne Leskovar, said a few words of greeting in Chinese as she just returned from a trip from China and Japan. She thanked Branch 95 for the smooth operation done on arranging this convention. “We came here because we like to see each other. Occasionally we revive ourselves by being among friends. We read about each other in the ZARJA.” While in Japan and China she noticed that the children are certainly adored by their parents and grown ups. And “We are all God’s children regardless where we live.”
Old Business:
Angela Nico stated that the minutes of the 1986 Convention were published in the ZARJA in the March
1986	issue. Asked if there were any omissions, additions or corrections. Hearing none, a motion was made by Frances Puetz, Branch 24 to accept the minutes as published, seconded by Olga Ancel, Branch 20. Motion carried.
The delegates then gave their yearly reports.
There are 9 branches in the Illinois-Indiana Region.
7	branches were present with delegates.
2	branches were absent and 1 branch had no report sent in.
At this time a recess was called and gifts were distributed.
Angela Nico reported:
1. Glad to hear that the branches are honoring the members by going out for lunch or breakfast.
2. Good gesture of the branches by paying dues for the elderly members.
3. Members suggested that the Slovenian stories should be translated in the English language. Angela said may be we should go the other way and we should learn the Slovenian language.
New Business:
Nominations were open for the office of President of the Illinois-Indiana Region. Sharon Naudziunas from Branch 2 nominated herself. There being no other nominations she was unanimously elected as the President. Mildred Pucel Branch 20 made a motion to accept her nomination, second by Mary Ann Starcevich from Branch 16.
Nominations were open for a Vice President. Mary Muller nominated Gladys Buck from Branch 16 — she declined. Mary Muller then nominated Mary Ann Starcevich from Branch 16 — she declined. Mary Muller then nominated Mary Lauretig from Branch 2 — she accepted the nomination.
Victoria Bobence our National President then installed the two newly elected officers for the ensuing 4 years to resume their office beginning January 1, 1988.
Victoria then opened the subject pertaining to our Scholarship Fund and how the students should be selected for scholarships which are $1,000.00 each, paid out in two payments. There were many ideas and suggestions from the members from the floor. This is what she wanted to know feed-back from the members. The National Board
meeting is in March 1988 and decisions will have to be made at this time. Victoria also suggested that the branches bring up ideas and programs at their meeting, and mail their suggestions to the head office, as they are always open for new ideas.
For the year 1987-1988 there were 7 applicants for college scholarships and 2 for vocational scholarships. A college scholarship is $1,000.00, and a vocational scholarship is $500.00. There are 7 members on the scholarship board.
The 1988 convention will be hosted by Branch 20 of Joliet, III. It will also be their 60th anniversary celebration.
Angela Nico mentioned that they are anticipating Bishop Baraga to be beatified in the near future. She also said that she and few friends have made a pilgrimage to Wisconsin including the Sault Ste. Marie and the Holy Hill.
Sharon Naudziunas then presented a check from Br.
2,	Chicago, in the amount of $500.00 for Scholarship Fund and $500.00 towards the Heritage Museum.
Mention was also made of the “Miracle at Medjugorje” which took place in a small village in Yugoslavia, where it is claimed that the Blessed Virgin Mary has been making almost daily appearances since 1981. (I wish to thank Mary Rittmanic from Branch 22 in Bradley, Illinois for sending me literature of this Miracle, which I will pass out to our members at our next meeting.)
A total of 140 members attended this convention, and I personally wish to thank all of the members for being here, it was our pleasure to be the host branch.
There being no further business to come before this convention meeting adjourned at 5:40 p.m. Closing prayer was recited by our outgoing President, Angela Nico.
Sincerely yours,
Frances E. Benkovič
Recording Secretary, Branch 95, So. Chicago, IL
Illinois-Indiana Officers
Mary Foys Lauretig (Br. 2), State Vice-President-elect, Sharon Naudziunas (Br. 2), President-elect and Angela Nico (89), Regional President at the Convention.
Irene M. Odorizzi 2362 Paddock I.ane Reston. Va. 22091
THE IMMIGRANT
Mary and Joseph Erchul on their wedding day, Oct. 14, 1907.
MARY FROM VAS SELA PRI HINJE
Vas Sela pri Hinje Slovenia was my birthplace on March 22, 1867. My parents, Martin Breznik and Marija Grandovec were married only a short while but during that interim, four children were born. Unfortunately, my mother died when I was only two years old. Father then re-married. Our stepmother was Marjeta Prijatelj and eight more children were bom to this second union.
Most of my childhood was spent in the fields tending to the animals or in the home caring for the younger children. However, the peace and quietness of the countryside was my favorite place because there I could study my catechism and spend time meditating on the mysteries of creation. 1 became very close to the Lord during those private moments.
We also had a garden and after hilling the potatoes and picking the potato bugs off the leaves, it was only natural to make the sign of the cross over the crops and say, “Naj bo v božjo čast.” (All for the honor and glory of God.) With this blessing came the faith and trust that God would take further care of those potatoes and give us a good crop. It has been said that one is close to God in a garden. By the time I had reached my twentieth year I was the only surviving child of my father’s first marriage. Helena, my stepsister, and the oldest child of his second marriage, decided to go to America, specifically the small mining town of Soudan, located on Minnesota’s Vermilion Range, about seventy-five miles northwest of Duluth.
©Irene M. Planinšek Odorizzi, 1987
On September 2, 1907, we left our beloved Slovenia on the French liner “La Lorina” and arrived in New York on September 21, 1907. From here we traveled on to the home of Rosa and Leopold Erchul who lived in Ely, Minnesota arriving on September 25. But our journey was not yet complete. After one day, we traveled farther along to the home of Anton and Josephine (Zaffa) Erchul, in Soudan, reaching there on September 26. It was here that I began my first job in America working for one month, in a boarding house.
My life would change very quickly because within a month, I would be a married lady. The Slovenian gentleman whom I would wed was Joseph Erchul, who left his home in Zagorice, Dobropolje at the age of fourteen, for Vienna, Austria where he remained for three years. He often spoke of selling roasted chestnuts on the street in front of the Schoenbrunn Palace, summer home of the Hapsburg dynasty. Joseph had sailed to America from Bremen, Germany, on the “Kaiser Wilhelm, der Gros” and arrived in Baltimore, Maryland, on June 13, 1906.
We had very few pictures of our early life in Soudan. Our neighbor, Joe Korpi, had a camera and took the only picture of all of us, about 1921. The occasion was the First Communion of the three eldest daughters. Mother made all the communion outfits as well as the “Sunday best” clothes for the whole family picture.
Left to right, front, Frances, Olga, Rose, Julia, mother Mary holding Margaret and behind, Mary, Joseph and father Joseph.
From here he too, traveled to Minnesota and arrived in Soudan on June 16, 1906 or one year prior to my arrival in Soudan.
Two days after he arrived, he began work at the Soudan Mine operated by U.S. Steel Co., then Oliver Mining Co. He labored as a barman for the next forty-seven years.
Joseph and I met through relatives and were married on October 14, 1907, at St. Martin’s Catholic Church in Tower, Minnesota. Rev. Joseph Ferjančič officiated and the attendants were Josephine and Anton Erchul who lived in Soudan their entire lifetimes.
Our life was a series of happy times and some sad ones as we went about our daily lives much like all the other Slovene families in Soudan. Times were hard, and living conditions difficult on the Iron Range, for women who cared for the needs of a large family with food, clothing and all the other necessities of life. But we were all a big happy family and together we bore these hardships knowing that God would take care of us and ultimately our physical needs.
We were blessed with eleven children: Mary — (Sr. Antonia), Julia — (Sr. Maxine), Rose — (Sr. Gervase), Olga Nykanen, Frances Bizal, Joseph, Margaret Schmidi, Agnes Mattson, Victoria Bobence, Benedict and Daniel. Fortunately, our children enjoyed school and five of them continued on to higher learning, receiving college degrees. Three of my girls turned to the Lord and became His bride as Benedictine nuns, taking their vows and becoming teachers in the parochial schools of the Diocese of Duluth.
Both of my sons served in World War II, Joseph with the Navy and Benedict with the Marines. The prayers of our family brought them home to us safely.
Those of my children who have married are fine parents and have presented us with fourteen grandchildren.
My husband and I have much for which to be grateful when we see our family flourishing so well.
In August of 1957, Joseph and I celebrated our Golden Wedding Anniversary with Father Michael Popesh as celebrant. A reception for friends and relatives was held at our home in Soudan. Six years later, Joseph died of cancer and was buried in Lakeview Cemetery in Tower, Minn. That was a difficult time of adjustment for me, but again God and Our Lady of Brezje were close to me, helping me survive the great loss.
While the majority of my lifetime was spent in raising my family in the Christian tradition. I tried to become a part of the church, civic and charitable organizations within our area, joining the Soudan Altar Society, the KSKJ Lodge, the Croatian Fraternal Union and the Slovenian Women’s Union.
In 1953, I was bestowed with a very special honor and named as the State of Minnesota’s Outstanding Slovenian Mother for that year. My name was submitted by Mrs. Mary Pahula, secretary of the SWU Branch #34. She felt that my work as president and a charter member who reactivated the membership from 19 to 49 members by a house-to-house canvass, was a very special accomplishment. My motivation in performing this task was to preserve a part of our cultural heritage which we brought with us from Slovenia and which we could not let fall by
On the hill behind our house, about 1922, are Frances Joseph and Olga. Poor we were! People still talk about it but here's the proof!
the wayside. It would have been so sad to see our organization which at that time provided women their social life, the sisterly strength and the bond of our roots during a very important period in our early lives here in America decrease through loss of membership. The reception and banquet was beautiful and touching, because my friends were there to share this occasion with me and they felt that I was worthy of such a distinguished honor. It was a complete surprise to hear my name announced.
Now that my children are all independent there is time to “retire” with the hobbies which make the later years in life so pleasant. I have continued gardening and rug-making as well as my work with the various organizations who need occasional help with their projects.
I have been asked many times what my philosophy of life was and perhaps I can sum it up in English, with this short poem:
MY TASK
To love someone dearly every day To help a wandering child to find his way,
To ponder o’er a noble thought, and pray and smile, when evening falls;
This is my task
To follow truth as blind who long for light,
To do my best from dawn of day till night,
To keep my soul fit for His holy sight and answer when He calls:
This is my task.
The End
NOTE: Thank you, Frances Bizal of Chisholm, for introducing us to your mother. We are especially proud to honor her as the mother of a wonderful, large family that includes our own National President, Victoria Bobence.
Bernadette J. Kovačič
GREETINGS FROM THE CO-DIRECTOR OF YOUTH
NEWS FROM S.W.U YOUTH MEMBERS--------------------
Allyson Ferris, age 10 from Branch #35 in Aurora, Minnesota wrote me about her summer Girl Scout camping experience. Allyson’s days at camp were filled with fun activities, like volleyball, swimming and arts and craft projects. She liked her camp counselors and friends, but she didn’t like the food. Allyson wrote, “If my mom was the cook, I would have liked it better.” Now that this Slovenian Girl Scout is an experienced camper, she looks forward to going again next summer.
Thanks for your letter, Allyson, write again soon!
Nancy Terselic, age 15 from Branch 103, Washington, D.C. personally told me all about her trip this past July to Medjugorje, Yugoslavia. 1 had the opportunity to interview her, and would like to share my questions and her thoughts and answers with you.
Briefly tell me what has been happening in Medjugorje, Yugoslavia
In Medjugorje, Yugoslavia, for about the past six years the Virgin Mary has been appearing to a group of young people who are now in their late teens and early twenties. She has been appearing on a daily basis to these people whom she is giving secrets pertaining to their personal lives and to the fate of the world which include chastisements for the Earth for people’s sins. The Virgin Mary is telling them to spread the message to the world to change their lives because this is supposedly the last time she is appearing before the end of the world.
First of all, the apparitions began on a hill near the visionaries’ homes and after that many pilgrims began to amass in Medjugorje. The government authorities who are atheistic closed off the mountain and told the community that nobody could go up the mountain. The apparitions then began happening inside the church of St. James in Medjugorje. The Bishop than decreed that the apparitions could not take place inside the church, so now they’re happening inside the rectory near the church. The pilgrims are still coming in great numbers daily.
Several weeks ago you actually had the opportunity to visit Medjugorje with your mother. What do you feel left the biggest impression on you now that you returned from this trip?
I can’t say anything in part left a big impression - its everything combined. The residents of the area just radiated with the peace that the Virgin is telling us to have in our lives. They take in visitors regularly and my group stayed with one of the families. The great out-pouring of faith that I felt and experienced while I was there made a big impression on me, as well as the large turnout of younger people, which I didn’t expect. The feeling of peace and a sense of total faith and fellowship and community — all the feelings that I experienced while there just touched me inside.
This is Vicka Ivankovič, one of the visionaries who is now 23 years and old and Nancy Terselic (right) who visited with her in July.
Did you experience anything unusual during your visit, such as the sun dancing or your rosary turning gold, or a strong feeling of the Virgin’s presence?
All of those things! The sun I believe I saw did dance. It happens everyday and most people do see it at about the same time. It’s during the hour of 6:00 p.m., while the Virgin Mary is appearing to the visionaries. There is a grey mass that seems to cover the sun, so that people can look at it directly. Many people have stared at the sun for 15 minutes to a half hour or more and then after an eye exam have been found to have no eye damage. I saw the sun seeming to jump around behind this great area and the grey area itself seemed to spin. I don’t know how, but I could tell that it was spinning. I believe that what was covering the sun was a host and although I didn’t see, other people have seen doves, chalices, Christ and silouet-tes behind the sun.
We have three rosaries that turned to gold. I don’t know if they actually turned to gold, but the links of the rosary turned to a golden color. The only part that didn’t change was the crucifix and the middle medallion of the rosary. These three we had brought along with a large group of other rosaries to be blessed. They were in a plastic bag which we carried with us one day with the other articles to be blessed at the church. It wasn’t until we got home that we looked at the rosaries and saw that they had changed and two rosaries that we were using on a daily basis in Medjugorje seemed to have changed to a golden color. I know people whose sacred medallions changed to a very bright golden color.
The general feeling of the entire area was very holy and that there was a presence of someone or something, that could only have been the Virgin Mary. I also felt the presence of Jesus in the church.
What impression did you have of the other visitors? You mentioned that you met some Irish and Italian people on the tour. Was there a large mix of people, such as handicapped, sick, older and younger people? What was your overall impression of the kinds of people that visited while you were there?
The people that visited were a very diversified group. There wasn’t a large number of sick and ailing people as you might find at the shrines of Lourdes and Fatima coming to be miraculously cured. It was just a mix of all races and ages coming together to witness this historical, faithful event. It was interesting to see the younger people going to mass; in my experience, people in their teens, twenties and even thirties are very reluctant to go to mass, and have to have someone behind them urging them along. The people that I saw were just regular people you might meet in any city, such as guys with their girlfriends. It didn’t appear that parents were telling them to go to mass for three hours everyday. They just feel faith!
I think people in this area have fallen away from strong beliefs and practice of faith that these people practice.
One incident that happened to a member of the Irish tour left an impression on me. A young man who was on the tour with his sister went for a walk near a waterfall with several other members of his group. During the walk, he had an accident which caused a fatal injury. At the same time his sister was on the mountain of apparitions praying in front of the crucifix. She heard a voice, and it was the crucifix speaking to her. She new at that moment that her brother was dead. Later, while she was praying in front of the crucifix again, she heard a voice that assured her that her brother was in heaven and not to worry about him. She was filled with an incredible deep peace before leaving for Ireland. I heard her speak at mass once; her acceptance of the death and her firm belief that her brother was in heaven just left a deep impression on me.
Do you think the fact that the Virgin is appearing to young people has had an influence in drawing more youth and young adults to this extraordinary place in Yugoslavia?
Personally, I don’t think that because she has chosen to appear to young people has caused younger people to come visit Medjugorje. I think she chose the young people because they are receptive to her. They aren’t mature and doubting and they won’t immediately be suspicious. As in previous apparitions, the children believed and accepted what they saw. Children are also very believable!
For example, it would be hard to imagine that the youngest visionary, Jacov could sit through mass for three hours daily and say the rosary just to pretend. He is obviously a normal child and would not want to pretend apparitions every day.
The Virgin appearing to young people is a fact of interest. I don’t think that’s a drawing course; the Virgin herself is drawing people. The visionaries are just the means she uses to tell people of her message.
I’ve head that the primary messages the Virgin is sending through her apparitions are peace, fasting, conversion and respect for life. Do you think these are her main messages?
Peace as far as I know is her most important message for all of us, but she’s telling us to convert and return to faith through fasting, sacrifice and the Eucharist. Respect for life is not one of her direct messages, but it’s basically implied. She’s telling us these things because we’re falling away from this in our materialistic world. How many people do you know who take time every Friday and Wednesday to fast or go to mass daily? Most people think Sunday is the day of obligation and stop there. I know
now that I want to go to mass more often. I want to fast, sacrifice, pray and receive the Eucharist. These are the Virgin’s main messages.
What do you sacrifice when you fast?
When I fast, I pray. I like food; when it’s deprived of me I don’t like it. I would rather be eating roast beef, turkey, other rich foods and drinking hot chocolate than just bread and water. While I’m doing this I know I’m giving up something very difficult to give up. I tell the Lord to accept this sacrifice because it’s hard for me and let it be used for the purposes that He feels it should be. If I have a very special intention, I offer it for that. It’s just the feeling that I’m doing this voluntarily; I’m giving up something that I do like and I’m doing it for the Lord.
People have said that by fasting you help the world, is this true?
When I fast I offer my fasting for whatever purposes the Lord deems it most useful. He may take the sacrifice and a soul in purgatory could merit heaven. My sacrifice could be used to bring a country on the brink of war back to peace. It doesn’t matter what it’s used for, I’m giving it to the Lord for whatever purpose he feels necessary.
Nancy enjoyed her trip so much that she would like to visit again. She said it was like an escape from her daily routine. The simple life of faith and peace was natural and very strengthening to her personally. Nancy was deeply touched by this experience in Medjugorje and the Catholic traditions she learned in her childhood seem to fit together and make more sense now than before her visit.
I’d like to thank Nancy once again for sharing her experiences and photo album with me and allowing me to have this printed. In sharing these personal thoughts with you, she is spreading the message of PEACE through her own perspective in a very special way.
The cross erected in 1933 on the peak of the mountain Križevac, next to the Mount of Apparitions.
NO. 1, SHEBOYGAN, WI
Congratulations to our new State Officers, Joan Yaklich, President and Mary Kiel, Vice-President and to Stavia Dobersek, our past President, on a job well done.
Our sympathy and prayers to the family of Frances Ribich, our charter member, who passed away during the month of October.
The Annual Christmas Party will be December 15th at Rupp’s Lodge in Sheboygan at 6 p.m. Call Ruth Sheck at 452-8251 for reservations by Dec. 10th. Our meeting and election of officers will be after the dinner.
Congratulations to Molly and Joe Sterk on their 50th Wedding Anniversary and to Annie and Tom Gruenke on their 25th Anniversary.
We wish to thank all the ladies who baked and in any way helped us at the International Festival. We will try again next year. Thanks, again.
Our Spiritual Director, Father Richard Fale, has been ill. Our prayers are with you. Father.
Ladies, don’t forget the Christmas meeting and dinner. Remember your
1987	dues! See you all there.
AGGIE GRUENKE
NO. 2, CHICAGO, IL
The theme of our October meeting was “Germany’s Fest”. The hall was nicely decorated as always and well attended by members and friends. Meeting was called to order, a prayer was said and the business on hand taken care of.
Plans for the upcoming holidays were set. Nov. 29th was scheduled for the annual Advent Tea to be held after all the Sunday masses. Dec. 6th was set for the children’s Christmas Party to be chaired by Irma and Louie fasderetz, Gloria and Ray Nusko and all their helpers. Gifts for children from one year to 10 years of age, providing their yearly dues are paid. Come and enjoy!
Dec. 10th is the adult Christmas party to be held in the church hall. Mass will be at 6:30 which is our anniversary mass. Price of the tickets for dinner will be $3.00 for members and $6.00 for guests.
Jean Hraster is in charge of the ticket sales and sicne only 175 tickets will be available, we suggest you hurry to make your reservations. The meal will be catered but no grab bags. The hostess for the evening will be Sharon Naudziunas and all her elf helpers.
Baraga Mass in October was attended by 19 members and 2 guests. Our lovely hostess, Ann Sam, served a nice snack with coffee after mass. Baraga Masses are held on the last Saturday of each month at 5:00 p.m. in Lemont. Try to attend.
Br. 2’s Christmas donation to the church will be $250.00 and also a sum of $250 will be given to Lemont.
Election of officers was held and the same officers agreed to stay in. A new auditor was voted in to replace Lil Siebert. She is Jean Hraster. Also, a new reporter for the new year will be Jean Železnikar. Congratulations to all. Keep up the good work.
Congratulations to Mike Morison who was selected as an outstanding young man of America for 1987.
Congrats also to Agnes and hubby, Louie Kovacic, who celebrated their 50th anniversary on Oct. 8th.
Patty Zubek Zeleznak and her hubby, Randy, are proud parents of a baby girl. Congratulations also to the proud grandparents. John Hozzian got engaged to Debbie Summers. It couldn’t happen to two nicer people. Congratulations!
Mass for the sick and ailing is on Dec. 3rd at 8:00 a.m. at St. Stephen’s. On the sick list are Luba Troha, Mary Ann Slaby, Frances Wright, Jeffry Nusko, Stephanie Osterman, Julia Erickson, Percy Morison and Fr. Thaddeus. Let’s remember them all in our prayers.
Our sympathy to the families of Anna Kosmach (nee Simec) and Mary Tomse. and also to Agnes Wroblewski on the passing of her husband, Bernard. Let us remember them all in our prayers. Our president, Fran Morison, offered a eulogy and the members prayed for our sisters at the last meeting.
Welcome back to our vacationers. Irene Carter was on a cruise ship and spent a week in Florida. Angie Benedict visited her mother in Kansas for a month. Rose Zielinski spent the summer in Oregon and on a cruise and in Hawaii. Lucky people.
December is the last month of the year 1987. Have a fun time at all your Christmas doings but stay healthy and take care. May the Christ Child “bless you”. See you at the January meeting.
ANN SCIESZKA
NO. 3, PUEBLO, CO.
Our first meeting after the summer vacation was held Sept. 2 with a fair attendance. We do wish more members would come to our meetings.
Meeting was opened with prayers by Anne Spelich, Pres.
Reports were given and approved.
Anne Spelich gave a report on the National Convention held in Joliet. We, as delegates, were treated royally and it is an experience that everyone should have! We enjoyed it very much and the ladies in Joliet are to be commended for the way they handled it.
Frances Simonich reminded the members present of the State Convention coming up in 1988. There will be more discussion at future meetings.
Prayers were said for deceased member, Antonia Zupančič. We give our condolences to her family.
Meeting was adjourned and “B” was played.
* * *
Our October meeting was opened with prayers by our Pres., Anne Spelich.
Reports were given and approved as read.
A new member was reported. Anthony Perko, son of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Perko, Jr. is our new member. His brother, Charles, as well as his mother, Ursula, and his grandmothers, Anna Knific and Josephine Perko are members.
The State Convention in 1988 was discussed. There will be more on this later.
We thank Angela Meglen for donating a blanket, a gift that goes to some lucky member after Christmas.
There being no other business, the meeting was adjourned and “B” was played.
PAULINE PAUCHICK
NO. 12, MILWAUKEE, WI
October’s meeting was very well attended except for Chris Boyance, our recording secretary being absent due to her recuperating from sudden surgery. We were sorry to hear that one of our oldest and long-time members, who also is Chris’ mother, Angeline Pipan, fell in her home and ended up at St. Joseph’s Hospital with a broken hip. That didn’t help her arthritic arms or fingers, so she is now at St. Mary’s Nursing Home where she receives therapy as well. Prayers and speedy recovery are wished to both as well as all our older members who are not feeling so well and can no longer enjoy the meetings.
After all reports were read and accepted, we discussed the State Convention but because all bills were not turned in, a complete accounting was not possible. So, the bills remaining were tabled.
The Convention was well attended by our group as well as the West Allis and Br. 43. No one came from Willard and a few of the officers from Sheboygan came dressed in their Slovenian national costumes. They were rewarded with a surprise!
Tory Bobence, the new National President, honored us with her message and dedicated spirit. We all enjoyed meeting her. The Pots and Pans lady, Hermine Dicke was also there along with National Auditor, Marion Marolt. It is good to see her getting about so well.
We thank the USPEH Chorus for their splendid singing and thanks to all who worked and attended.
M.D.
NO. 13, SAN FRANCISCO, CA
There isn’t much news to report this month. Many of our members did go on a Reno Bus Trip. It was planned by our President, Jo Aiuto. It was my first trip with the lodge and it was marvelous. We played games on the bus and stopped half way at Auburn for a delicious breakfast, arriving at Reno, Nevada 5 hours later for 2 days and a night of gambling, eating, and much fun. On the bus ride home, each of us received a baggie filled with homemade cookies from Michele Twers (Jo’s daughter). I know personally how grateful our members are to have Josephine as President. We’ll
never let her out of office!!
On our meeting December 3, we will have a Christmas Party. If you would like to receive an exchange gift, please bring one. Details will be discussed at the November Meeting. Hope to see many members because we do have a good time.
It is very hard to believe it is Christmas time already. We had a very good year in Zveza and many enjoyable gatherings. I would like to wish all our members very happy holidays.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to all our sick members.
The polite part of speaking with God is to be still long enough to listen...
BEVERLY JACKSON, Reporter
NO. 14, EUCLID, OH
Winter is approaching much too quickly this year. Though fall leaves are a riot of lovely colors, we are preparing for a wicked winter.
Highlight of this month was the combined branches dinner and meeting preceded by a mass for living and deceased members celebrated by the Rev. Victor Tome held at Euclid Park Clubhouse. His inspirational homily likened us members to prophets, giving us much food for thought. We’re proud of our members for their large attendance at this delightful function presided over by Ann Tercek, the ever perfect hostess. Honored also were reporters from each local branch, a perfect opportunity to meet our sister editors. Thanks to all for a great day!
News that member Laurie Minnick has graduated from basic training at Fort Dix, N.J. The entire family proudly attended the ceremony consisting of Marilyn and Jim Fitzthum, aunt and uncle, parents Diane and Larry and proud grandma, Jennie Fitzthum. Keep up the good work Laurie!
Our Oct. meeting had a nice attendance which included all 5 new members, Sharon Kobal, Emily LaPorte, Ruth Korelec, Jackie Ulle, and Pat Stanic. Welcome to all! Big topic of the evening was our Christmas in November Dinner. Tickets are going like hotcakes and we’re just delighted! More news next month.
World travelers Ileene and Jay Collins are off for a 2-week trip to Hawaii. We can envy their lovely tans upon their return and hear about their exciting adventures.
Fortunately we have a healthy group of members this month, much to all our delight!
May you enjoy a Blessed Christmas and a Happy New Year filled with joy and peace of mind.
ALICE KUHAR
NO. 16, CHICAGO, IL
October 8,	1987	meeting was
opened with a prayer for living and deceased members.
The minutes were read and approved. There were 23 members in attendance. Through the suggestion of Steffie Golob — Phyllis Perko went to her files and selected the minutes from Oct. 8, 1970 (17 years ago) to read at our meeting. What a wonderful idea. Thank you, ladies.
To add a little humor, Marge Prebil read a poem on “Retardment” (retirement) inspired by a conversation with a 6 year old and his grandparents.
We have a new member, Daniel M. Seradin, grandson of Gloria (Triller) Seraden. Welcome!
Get-well wishes are sent to Mary Cmakrak, Catherine Anderson and Mary Putzell. Hope you are all well again.
We wish to thank Branch no. 95 for the knowledgeable and enjoyable convention — all 26 of us.
Katie Triller had a friend whose husband was a Slovenian artist. He lived in Chicago in 1922 but moved to Cleveland, O., where he died in 1940. Katie was godmother to one of the daughters.
Edna Winters, Katie’s niece, found several of his paintings among her Aunt’s possessions. She generously donated them to our Heritage Museum in Joliet.
Helen Gomick became a grandmother for the first time. Matthew Albert Gomick III was bom on 10-8-87 at 4:22 PM. Helen was so excited she missed our meeting. She is expecting another grandchild in December. Congratulations!
Our annual games party will take place April 27, 1988 at 2:00 pm in the Church Hasll.
Our birthday celebrants were Dolores O’Brien, Dorothy and Phyllis Perko, Mary Ann Starcevich and Fran Zupančič.
Our Christmas Party will be at St. John’s in Whiting. The fee is $10 and reservations can be made with Dolores O’Brien 596-3499. Beginning
at 6:00 pm ’til! — come and join the fun of gifts and entertainment on our December meeting night.
Congratulations to Judy Jarkovich on her marriage to Neal Ottenfeld. May they have a happy and long life together.
We’ll all be so busy for the holidays that I want to say, “God Bless Us All During These Times and May The Coming Year Bring Health and Happiness.”
FRAN B. ZUPANČIČ 9757 Avenue "M” Chicago, IL 60617 721-1905
NO. 17, WEST ALLIS, WI
Hope many of you had a happy Thanksgiving with relatives and friends. Now we turn to the Christmas holidays and our annual meeting to be held Sunday, Dec. 20th at 2 p.m. A Christmas social will follow after the close of the meeting. A mistake was made in the November issue. A $2.50 gift exchange, not $2.00 as reported. The distribution of a $2.00 gift to the children will also take place.
The October meeting was well-attended as we held our annual fund raiser event with many happy winners of prizes. Secretary, Joan Yaklich gave a brief report on the state convention Oct. 11th hosted by Br. 12. The meeting went on very well and many issues were discussed and resolved. The church, the mass, the banquet, were all very nice. The program and the Uspeh Chorus was great! and very entertaining. Joan Yaklich is our new Regional President for Wisconsin and Mary Kiel was elected as Vice-president. Out-going President, Stavia Dobersek, was thanked for a job well done. Our branch will host the state convention in 1988 and the tentative date set is Sunday, Sept. 18th.
I was just informed that Nellie Ermen had a mishap recently and broke her shoulder bone in a fall. She also shattered her elbow which required surgery. She will be laid up for a while; hopefully, she will mend quickly and resume attending our meetings. I understand that Terry (Rose] Mershnik is not feeling to well these days, along with our list of sick members, Julia Omahne, Frances Potochar, Josephine Paucek, Lucille Kozleauchar and Mary Mum. May God grant them return of good health real soon.
My suggestion for Christmas gifts? Give the cookbook, Pots and Pans and the poetry book, Flowers from my Gardens.
A very Merry Christmas to all our members and friends and in Slovenian:
Želimo Vam Vsem,
Vesele Božične Praznike in srečno novo leto.
FRAN PIWONI
NO. 20, JOLIET, IL
Sunday, October 4th, 20 members attended the Illinois State Convention. We travelled by bus and enjoyed the beautiful day with the colorful scenes of changing colors along the way. Sacred Heart Church is a lovely church; the mass, the singing. Father Paul’s homily, and the hospitality of the ladies serving coffee upon our arrival, set the tone for the day — happy. It was nice to see so many “familiar” faces again — those having attended the National Convention in May. We enjoyed the meal at the Jovial Club before the Convention was convened by Angela Nico, Regional President. Several of the National Officers were in attendance too: Tory Bobence, President, Sylvia Vukodinovich, Treasurer, Olga Ancel, Secretary, Corinne Leskovar, Editor, and former president, Mary Muller. The minutes will tell you all about the convention; we all enjoyed being in South Chicago, and want to say “Thank You” to the ladies in charge for a job well done.
Our last meeting was well-attended and members enjoyed the videotapes of the National Convention Mass and the Shrine of Medjugorja. The nominating Committee presented the slate of officers for election. President: Mildred Pucel, Vice President: Joyce Vicich, Recording Secretary: Helen Plut, Financial Secretary: Ardis Gregorash, Treasurer: Diane Kalcic, 1st Auditor: Virginia Duvall, 2nd Auditor, Jo Lustik, 3rd Auditor: Betty Burkhardt, Sgt. at Arms: Marie Mal-narick, Spiritual Director: Father David Stalzer. Installation of Officers will take place at our January meeting, Sunday afternoon, 1 PM., on the 17th.
We have two members ill this past month; Dolores Zbačnik and Mary Mavec. Hopefully they are well enough to enjoy the coming Christmas season.
In October we had the passing of
another member, Julia Petrie. Julie was a long time member and her daughter, Marge, was a member of the Cadet Drill Team. Our sympathy to Marge and her family.
Fortieth anniversary congratulations are in order for John and Mary Anzelc. They are part of the backbone of Branch 20 — here’s to many more!
The “Polish Prince” Bobby Vinton made his yearly appearance at the Rialto Theatre, for the performances. This is his third return engagement, and as is the past, packed the theatre. His shows are so energetic.
Adding more “ethnicity” to Joliet was the Don Lipovic orchestra from Kansas City. They were at St. Mary Nativity Church helping celebrate the church’s 80th anniversary. Father David Stalzer, our branch spiritual advisor, is Pastor. From all reports, that, too, was a most enjoyable time.
December 20, is the day for our Christmas Brunch. We will meet at the Champagne Room in Shorewood at 12 noon. The charge for members will be $8.00—guests, $11.00. There will be an optional $3.00 gift exchange. Make your reservations with Kathy Harvey who is in charge.
The Christmas season has begun; last Sunday was the first Sunday of Advent and the beginning of the lighting of your Advent wreath. The whole house takes on a new atmosphere and will carry us through the remaining days until the 25th. The decorations will be put up, shopping and baking are done whenever possible between regular duties and, as always, everything gets done on time; the house smells sooo good from the baked cookies, bread, potica and smokies. Midnight mass on Christmas Eve is traditional, Slovenian hymns are emotional, and love and happiness pours out from all of us without any effort. May Christmas bring you the joy of giving, receiving, loving and Peace.
And, Happy New Year!
HELEN PLUT
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all our friends Slovenians, too!
Lou and Mary Lou Prhne Englewood, Florida
's
Mr. & Mrs. Andrew Ancel
It was twenty-three years ago that the Junior columnist “For the Young at Heart”, namely Regina, wrote of her baby. “The youngest will be celebrating his first birthday. He is a somewhat spoiled little fellow of perpetual motion, a noisemaker deluxe, an attention getter, a ‘character’ enjoying every type of mischief and a source of joy. During his tenth month his walking took him into greater realms of adventure. He too (like his older brother) enjoys the outdoors and his special love is daddy.”
Four years later Regina wrote of the language of “our youngest which was both comical and entertaining. Have you ever played ghost house filled with ‘keletons and ‘pooks? And did you ever have a ‘cary dream? After the important purchase of a parakeet, it was his suggestion of ‘ky Blue for a name that was accepted by all.
“And if a dog named ‘potty came to live at our house, a ‘quare box would be found to keep him in. Then our little boy and his dog would be busy chasing ‘quirrels around the yard. For exciting fun our son enjoys riding with his older brother, who ‘peeds along the highway. And just about now I should say ‘Enough already’ — ‘top.” At St. Joseph grade school he was a basketball player, a tuba player in the band, a science fair participant and an altar boy. He also was a carrier for the local paper, a dancer in the branch’s Slovenian dancing group and a drummer in Joliet’s only Kazoo band. Graduation from Joliet Catholic High and Northern Illinois University in DeKalb followed and earning a BS degree in Marketing. It was during his summer job at the Northrup company in Rolling Meadows that he met his future bride, another summertime employee. She graduated from Eastern Illinois University in Charleston with a BA degree in communications.
“An old wooden pier —
A walk in the woods Soft summer breezes —
Winter’s wind Dreams unfold —
Two hearts touch Life forever shared.”
This poetic verse appearing on the wedding invitations was composed by the bride’s mother.
October 17 was the day chosen by Pamela Metz and Andrew Ancel for their wedding, which took place in St. Joseph Church in Joliet. Officiating at the ceremony and Mass were the Rev. Bernard Karmanocky, Deacon Frank Bertagnoli and Monsignor M.J. Butala.
The parents are Don and Barbara Metz of Niceville, FL and Edward and Olga Ancel. Matron of Honor was Theresa Johnson, sister of the bride. Bridesmaids were Suzanne Metz, sister of the bride, Mary Metz, sister-in-law of the bride and Brenda Barr.
Bestman was Kevin McNamara. Groomsmen were Joseph Ancel, brother of the groom, Victor Pucel, cousin of the groom and Paul Mantovani. The reception took
place at St. Joseph Park Hall. The couple honeymooned in St. John of the US Virgin Islands and reside in Lombard.
The bride wore her mother’s bridal gown of twenty-seven years ago.
For the two families it was a grand reunion time, as Pam and Andy’s immediate families were able to come from various distances to take part in the happy and loving event. Pam’s family consists of three brothers, two sisters, their spouses, four nieces, one nephew and three grandparents. Andy’s family comprised of 1 brother, four sisters, their spouses, one nephew and one niece.
Brothers and sisters of the bridal couple took part as lectors, a flutist, ushers, gift bearers and reception hall decorators. There were cousins who trumpeted in church and second cousins who served. There were other relatives and friends who played or sang in church or at the reception. There were aunts, uncles, cousins and friends wishing the bridal couple their “Congratulations.”
For the closing in church the lector read “The Keys to Love” which are keys to understanding, forgiveness, trust, sharing, giving and respect, living inside each of us...“And you are the key to me.”
Our family was not decreased but increased and enriched by a daughter-in-law and her family. My husband Ed and I pray that God grants our newlyweds His choicest blessings. And may the peace of Christ dwell always in their hearts and in their home.
Your friend,
REGINA (alias Olga Ancel)
The Strategic Consumer:	By Bernadette J. Kovačič I	
A GUIDE TO FOOD LABELS	* r*	
Consumers are bombarded daily with food ads and labels about which foods taste the best and which foods are the most nutritious. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requires all manufacturers to include on the package, the name of product; weight; and name of distributor. Any other information provided by the manufacturer is voluntary. In understanding food labels you have access to the food’s nutritional makeup, its ingredients, how long it’s been on the shelf, and the date by which it must be sold.
INFORMATION PROVIDED ON FOOD LABELS
INGREDIENTS — The main ingredient in the food is listed first, followed by others in descending order. Artificial food colors and flavors may be used in general terms, except for Yellow No. 5 which can cause allergic reactions in some individuals.
The addition of nutrients to certain foods corrects dietary deficiencies, such as Vitamin D to milk to prevent rickets in children. Additionally, they are added to foods which lose nutrients through processing and storage, such as white flour, and canned fruits and vegetables. FDA’s guidelines support the addition of vitamins and minerals to margarine to make its nutritional content similar to butter. Also, any diet foods meant to serve as meal replacements contain added vitamins and minerals coinciding with caloric content and portion size.
NUTRITION INFORMATION — It is required if a manufacturer adds protein or vitamins. Also, any “nutritional claim” such as, this product contains fewer calories is required by law to be accompanied by nutrition information; however, most manufacturers include such information even if it is not required by the FDA.
The nutrition label lists number of calories, amount of protein, carbohydrates, fat and sodium in relation to one serving size and amount. Listing cholesterol, fatty acid and potassium content is optional. The familiar phrase “US. RDA’s”, meaning Percentage of Recommended Daily Allowances lists the amounts of protein and seven essential vitamins and minerals for each serving of the product.
Since summer 1986 FDA requires all manufacturers to include sodium content information. Increasing evidence suggests the relationship between sodium intake and high blood pressure, therefore, FDA declared the regulation to help consumers become aware of high sodium levels in some foods which have salt added. The following terminology is presently used:
• Sodium free — means the product contains less than five milligrams per serving
• Very low sodium — 35 milligrams or less per serving.
• Low sodium— 140milligramsorlessperserving.
• Reduced sodium — foods that have the usual level of sodium reduced by at least 75% per serving.
Note that unsalted or no salt added foods probably contain some sodium. Salt is made up of 40% sodium and is the primary source of sodium in the diet.
METRIC UNITS — Since metric units allow a precise unit of measurement for small amounts of food, nutrition labels show grams rather than ounces.
1 pound = 454 grams
1 ounce = 28 grams
1 gram = 1,000 milligrams
1 milligram = 1,000 micrograms FOUR PRODUCT DATES LISTED ON LABELS
PACK DATE — Gives the day food was manufactured, processed or packaged. This date is not a big concern to consumers if it is on canned foods which have a long shelf life when stored under dry, cool conditions.
PULL OR SELL DATE — This is the last date on which the product should be sold, depending upon if it has been stored and handled right.
EXPIRATION DATE — This is the last date on which the food should be eaten or used.
FRESHNESS DATE — Usually given on baked goods; they can be eaten a short time after date, but will not taste as good.
SYMBOLS USED
Several symbols that you may not be familiar with are:
“R” — trademark used on the label is registered with the U.S. Patent Office.
“C” — The literary and artistic work on the label has a copyright and is protected against any infringement.
The letter “U” inside a circle — Foods which comply with Jewish dietary laws by the Union of Orthodox Jewish Congregations of America carry this symbol.
The letter “K” inside a circle — indicates that food has been processed under the direction of a Rabbi and complies with Jewish dietary laws.
UNIVERSAL PRODUCT CODE — The small block parallel lines with numbers and the UPC symbol is the Universal Product Code, displaying a unique pattern of lines and numbers for each product.
Stores equipped with computerized checkouts read the code automatically and ring up the sale. It also functions as an inventory system so management can easily find out how much of a certain product is available, how quickly it is selling and when and in what quantity to place new orders.
NO. 21, CLEVELAND, OH
NO. 22, BRADLEY, IL
I recently had the pleasure to attend a regional conference of representatives of many branches in the company of Marie Pivik. It was hosted by Anne Tercek of Branch 50, President of Ohio-Michigan groups. It was gathered on a warm sunny fall afternoon at Euclid Park beginning with liturgy by Fr. Tome and a mini choir of ladies. There were three uniformed groups. Branch 50 drill team later stood in a candlelite memorial prayer remembering our late officers and all deceased members. The hymns were sung so full-heartedly the melody rang through-out the park area by the total group as one voice. A joy to God. A gift by Him.
Fr. Tome congratulated the S.W. Union of Women for their perseverance and cultural works. President Victoria Bobence, guest of honor, spoke briefly urging us to promote the continuation of our unity and strength in membership with young ladies to uphold our traditions. Speaker, Frances Tanny Babic, author and professor, extended her promotion of more history of our traditions for our children to uphold on sacred holidays and other prominent occasions.
All reporters were acknowledged for their news reports keeping readers informed in ZARJA.
Lunch was welcomed and delicious, allowing time to acquaint ourselves with members from suburbs and outlying areas. What lovely ladies they are!
Nominations were all declined to overwhelm Anne Tercek after much deliberation. Shame on us. Anne has made many sacrifices. We applaud her. Let us all cooperate to lighten her burden.
At our branch meeting Wednesday, Oct. 14, sixteen members attended to make a major decision. It is not a sec-
ret that President, Rose Kosko and Sec.-Treas., Stella Dancul are resigning. They have good reasons for health and self-preservation. All of us are naturally concerned and grateful to both Rose and Stella for their years of service. Who else would have done it all for as long? We are saddened because it means we must make every effort toward the continuation of Branch #21. Meantime, Marie Pivik will take office of President. Helen Konkoy promises to review the total business of sec. treas. operation before the November meeting.
We regret the loss of two members recently. Mrs. Pultz, a widow, and transferred member of Branch #53 and Jacqueline Vidmar Škufca, daughter of the late Anna Vidmar. May they rest in peaceful bliss in the arms of our Lord.
We are not in touch with the following members household or otherwise. Anna Pischel, who is always so gracious and generous, Ella Prisel, Margaret Borek, Pauline Tratnik, And Anna Kosak. We heard of Christine Sustersic and her surgery. She is recuperating at her sister, Anne’s. We wish her a pleasant convalescence as her sister nourishes her to wellness. Mary Stevens had also been hospitalized this summer painfully anticipating a pre-planned trip to Calif, with her family. Her doctor arranged that she was able to improve to make the trip in time. On behalf of all ill or incapacitated members, we have you in our prayers and in our hearts. May you all enjoy better health, comfort and warmth; that you are never completely forsaken and that each of us in some way or another is striving to maintain our strength and capacity for reasonable good health. Wishing you many of God’s abundant blessings.
Respectfully,
HELEN L. KONKOY
Relax, Br. 95, your stint in hosting the State Convention is over and the hard work rewarded — a happy day for members and guests! Personally, it also meant a new acquaintance in Frances Benkovich and a chance to greet an old Chicago friend, Mary Krapenc. Bradley was thrice blessed, too, in prize winners Mary Rittmanic, Ann Richards, and yours truly. Again, our thanks!
Locally, a few weeks later, we met again, this time at Mayme Drassler’s, with Helen Sebastiani helping to give us a lively evening. Our heartfelt thanks to both of you for the warm hospitality. We all chimed in as Mayme played Češčena Marija on the piano (the same piano my sister Toni and I played, using one finger, when we went “across the street” to have fun with Mollie D.; that was a very long time ago.)
President Libby Kinder announced that the annual Mass for deceased members will be offered the first Tuesday in May at St. Joseph’s in Bradley. Nice to think of beautiful May but we must hurdle Winter first. That means Christmas, and of course a party! Mary Rittmanic and sister Marge Platon will host the meeting on Dec. 13 following a dinner at South China Restaurant. Going to “South China” will be just a walk for Mary and Marge; they had gone to California in September to attend a nephew’s wedding. It was a family reunion of sorts, only one sister not attending; I believe seven were present.
A happy event on the day of this meeting! A fifth great grandchild (boy) for Mollie McIntyre! A long, good life to the wee one!
A Little Child shall lead us. He came on Christmas Day. May all of us walk in the path of His Guiding Light this Christmas and throughout the New Year. Blessed Peace to all!
EMMA LUSTIG
AMERICAN
SLOVENIAN
CATHOLIC
UNION
m
LIFE INSURANCE FOR THE FAMILY
HOME OFFICE: 2439 GLENWOOD AVENUE • JOLIET, IL 60435 (815) 741-2001
NO. 23, ELY, MN
Meeting Oct. 5th was opened with a prayer by Vice-President, A.Mobilia as President Ann Sarri is still on the sick list. Secretary’s report was made by M. Folio. Treasurer’s report by H. Strukel. Both reports were accepted. Nominating Committee, Mary Petritz, Fran Pengal and Angie Godec had a report at the November meeting. Mary Folio and Angie Mobilia would check with caterer for the Christmas Party. All agreed to leave Dawn Club as a separate night to meet. We would add an amount to dues and use it for projects. 37 members present. Rose Novak won the door prize. Nice lunch served. After adjournment we played B.
On Oct. 12th, the Dawn Club met with Marcy Zupec leading the prayer. Rose Novak read the secretary’s report for D. Poppesh who was ill. Treasurer’s report was by Sally Davidson. All agreed with leaving Dawn Club on a separate night. Thank yous were read from the Lunka family. 36 were present. Lunch committee served a nice lunch with the Halloween theme. Nice decorations. B was played.
KRIS GARNI
NO. 24, LA SALLE, IL
We had a nice attendance at our October meeting and a very enjoyable evening.
Frances Puetz, delegate to the State Convention in South Chicago, gave an excellent report on the activities of the day. Mary Gramce brought her Convention Mass program and song sheet and the printed newsletter from Br. 2, Chicago for all to see. This material was then placed in our convention file. Those who attended the Convention reported that they had a good time and enjoyed the hospitality of Br. 95.
The report on our fund-raising project showed that 52 members have responded to date in answer to the 75 letters sent to our members. We thank these members for their generous donations and the many nice comments regarding this project.
After the business meeting, Frances Baznik was presented her 50 year membership- pin. Frances has always been a faithful supporter of S.W.U. and until her illness last year, a regular attendant at the meetings and ac-
tivities. We enjoy her company now whenever she can make our meetings. We hope her health will continue to improve so she can be with us for a long time. Agnes Bartley also received her 50 year pin. She is a resident of Heritage Manor Nursing Home and is no longer active. In honor of this special occasion, Anne Wangler and Frances Puetz served Apple Strudel and Apple Cider after the meeting.
Our Christmas Party plans are indefinite at this writing but will be announced in the local paper and Church bulletin. We won’t have a business meeting until March 1988 so to all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy, Healthy 1988.
ANNE M. WANGLER, Reporter
NO. 23, CLEVELAND, OH
Congratulations to our first time great grandmother, Jennie Strumbel.
Happy birthday to my godchild, Derek Chrzanowski, and to all good ladies who are celebrating their great day this month.
May your holidays be full of glorious happenings with the celebration of Christ’s birth! Many blessings in the coming New Year!
CIRILA KERMAVNER
NO. 32, EUCLID, OH
October meeting was a busy one. The mass for the living and deceased was at 7 p.m. at St. Christine’s. Everyone went to our usual meeting place where our meeting was held and after it was adjourned, we had an Avon demonstration and donuts and cider as refreshments. A blind auction was also held.
Tim Mathis, director of the Twirlet-tes and instructor, Mary Gentile, came to thank our branch again for the donation given to them. They told us of the activities that are planned to earn money for new uniforms and equipment. They won 20 times of 25 entries. They also appreciate any donations to their cause. We are very proud of these girls.
They had a spaghetti dinner in November and another dinner is planned for Christmas and party on December 18th at Rechar Lower Hall. Everyone is welcome to come and cost
is only $6.50. Tickets can be reserved with a call to 531-7899
Members who celebrated their 50th Wedding Anniversaries were Joseph and Rose Jenko in August, Agnes and Tino Modic of Cape Coral, Florida in October. Jean McNulty’s parents celebrated their 70th on Nov. 7th at Uniontown, PA. There was a big celebration.
Vicky Holney’s granddaughter, Anne Marie, married Tim Kelly on Nov. 7th. Ann Rossman’s grandson, John Foster, married Judy on Oct. 17th.
Mary Zakrajšek became a grandmother for the third time as her son, Jim and wife, June became proud parents on July 7th of a boy named Andrew James. I also became a grandmother again on June 29th. My son, Kenneth and wife, Paula Baron had a boy, Richard Kenneth. All three have birthdays on the 29th of their months. Paula’s is in Sept., Ken in Nov. My son, Tom and wife, Vivian Baron had a girl on July 13th.. She was named Kara. That makes 6 grandchildren for me.
Pres. Dorothy Lamm and husband. Bob, drove to Allentown, PA near Cooks Forest and they enjoyed nature in its fall splendor. The leaves and hills were a sight to see.
We also have two new members, Sharon Beck was installed and Mary Drobnick’s grandson’s wife, Nancy will be sworn in next month.
Hope to see everyone at the Christmas Party on Dec. 16th.
Best wishes for a Happy Holiday to everyone.
JOHANNA WEGLARZ
NO. 33, DULUTH, MN
Agnes Galleberg entertained by playing her accordian after short meeting on Oct. 7.
Prayers of sympathy on death of Dorothy Brula, 86, our 53 year member. Also to Marie Garafolo on death of her father.
Remember sick members and families:	Katherine Aldridge and
Mary Chivotti’s husband, John.
Congratulations for new granddaughters to Ann Menart and Ruth Boben. Ann traveled to Colorado to visit with her daughter and grandchildren and was present at the baptism.
Ruth had visited two sons and families in Rhode Island and Virginia. She returned to Newport News, VA.
REPORT Of! MINNESOTA DAY - BIU/RBIK, MN
On Sunday, September 13, Biwabik Branch #39 hosted “Zveza Day”—Minnesota Day, 1987.
Registration and coffee ’an began at 9:00 a.m. at the Biwabik Park Pavilion. It was nice to visit with friends and renew acquaintances.
The meeting was called to order by our State President, Rose Maras at 10:00 a.m. Reports were given by all branches represented. Jean Korsman gave the annual Biwabik report. New officers were nominated and elected. Our new Minnesota State President is Emily Skull of Duluth and Vice President is Kathryn Knuth of Chisholm.
After the meeting, a short walk took us to St. John’s Church for a Polka Mass with Father Perkovich of Gilbert and Joe Cvek and his Polka-Mass-ters which was held at noon. The Slovenian Women’s Union banner was again on the altar and the Mass was in honor of all the members. The Mothers of the Year from all the visiting branches were presented a corsage, as well as other dignitaries attending.
Fr. Hayden, pastor of St. John’s in Biwabik, gave the blessing before the dinner served in St. John’s church parlor. A delicious turkey dinner and all the trimmings was served by the young members of St. John’s Youth Group and prepared by Range Catering. PotiCa and krofe was also served. David LaZella, grandson of our member Fran Anzelc, entertained us with accordian music during dinner.
Mayor Robert Woods of Biwabik welcomed the 270 members to our city. A letter of welcome was also read from Mrs. Rudy Perpich, wife of our Governor. Victoria Bobence, our National President, gave an interesting account of writing our own stories. Lonna Minne, Minnesota State Representative, gave an interesting talk on a recent trip to Finland with a delegation from the United States to develop a sisterhood with women from that country. She made a terrific suggestion about the possibility of developing the same type of project with women of Slovenia. If anyone is interested in forming a delegation, she will be willing to help get it started.
A group of entertainers called the “Looney Tunes” from Virginia entertained the group with singing and dancing the rest of the afternoon. And entertain they did—so much so that they had to beg to leave after three encores.
Many prizes were awarded. Donations of gifts were from members and local businesses, such as, a basket of groceries, $100 and $50 bonds, afghan, beaded basket and candle holder set and a knitted vest.
It was decided that next year Minnesota Day will be hosted by our neighboring community, Aurora, MN.
ROSEMARY RIBICH, Reporter
in October to welcome her first granddaughter.
I pass on greetings from Gertrude (Liz) Puglisi from St. Paul to all members were sent with her Dollar for Funeral Fund.
We extend best wishes for the holiday season to all members of Zveza.
LOIS PELANDER, Reporter
NO. 34, SOUDAN, MN
Our meeting on October 21, 1987, was another well-attended meeting, with Fr. LaPatka joining us for coffee afterward.
We again approved a donation to the Tower-Soudan Chamber of Commerce, to publicize our branch. We are going to add in the directory that we sell the Pots and Pans Cookbook, in the hope that we may get some sales.
To do something different this year, we planned to have our Founder’s Day Mass on November 18, our regular meeting day. Mass will start at 7:30 a.m., followed by a breakfast, and then our meeting, which will include the election of new officers. Hostesses chosen for the breakfast were Angela Jamnick, Marcella Rooney, Ann Stefanich, and Frances Tanko. Jean
Zupanich furnishes the door prize.
Plans are made to celebrate our parish’s patron saint, St. Martin of Tours, feast day with the traditional stew dinner following the mass in the evening. Helen Adkisson and Emma Betoume head the direction of this get-together which has proven so successful ever since it started.
Helen Adkisson has shown her video tapes of her travel to Yugoslavia and Rome, she got some fantastic shots in all places, to hear the people speaking and seeing them and the beautiful scenery was something else. I also talked with Rose Planton, who went to Yugoslavia with some of her late husband’s relatives and she said the same things, the scenery is beautiful, as are the people. Helen’s video on Medugorje is something we should all see.
As I am writing this, my sister, Mary Inzerello, is in the hospital in Elk Grove, IL and is seriously ill and Lucille Svatos’ husband, Charles, is also very ill. We send our best to them that they will improve.
For our meeting, Mary Vollendorf and Agnes Tekautz were hostesses; the door prize was brought by Sophie Zavodnick and won by Sophie Spol-lar. Social hour winners were Adeline Mustonen, Mary Frances Jamnick,
Angela Tekautz and Helen Chiabotti.
My wish for all of you at Christmas--may you have a wonderful Christmas with your loved ones. God bless all of you!
ADELINE MUSTONEN, Reporter
NO. 35, AURORA, MN
We had a busy fall beginning with our Minnesota State Convention in Biwabik on Sept. 13th.
Many of our members and their husbands helped to make our 9th annual Grape Festival a success. Our Festival Singers and our local musicians led a sing-a-long which everyone enjoyed. Our cops, A1 Yerich and Pat Chisholm, from Kitzville, along with other volunteers, kept a close eye on the grape arbor. They made many ‘ ‘arrests’’ which kept our jail filled with prisoners all evening and kept our judges. Matt Urick and Tony Ahlin busy. Thanks to everyone who worked and helped in any way, and to our guests who came from near and far.
At the Oct. meeting we welcomed our Spiritual Leader, Fr. John Šušteršič. He led us in prayers and said he was happy that we were preserving our Slovenian Heritage. Fr. John said
WOMAN-A Call To Beauty
III.
And the lines of inner beauty, Jesus drew up in the Sermon on the Mount:
Beuuliful is the woman who is poor
She is like a rose in full bloom-generous in the ways she gives encouragement, skillful in hiding the thorns that would harm or discourage another, neglecting nothing that would bring others to happiness.
Beautiful is (he woman who knows her own limitations and accepts them. Like a growing plant, she, too, is fragile but tenaciously strong because she depends upon SOMEONE greater than herself. And in this faith, brings color out of the blackness — hope out of failure.
Beautiful is the woman who knows how lo cry
Who can be caught up in the sorrows, the troubles, and who identifies with the pain of others. Like a relay station, she extends strong arms heavenward, and outward
receiving - interpreting - and transmitting messages in all directions.
Woman is that kind of transformation center
who finds God in prayer — and through this relationship balances all things.
Submitted by Victoria "Tory” Bobence with permission from NCCW
The Cover Picture, the beautiful face of the Blessed Mother, is part of the statue showing the seated Madonna and Child, from the year 1470 and now located at Vrtovina, in the Vipava area of Slovenia.
Photo courtesy Ognjišče, Koper, 1986, LEPOTE SLOVENSKIH CERKVA
he will try to attend our meetings and to guide us in our spiritual development.
Plans were made for the mass for our deceased members held in Nov. The Slovenian choir was to sing and the gift bearers would be Betty Turk, Betty Orazem and Mrs. EliSmolich.
All future meetings of our branch will be held at the Holy Rosary Church hall. The next big meeting and Christmas Party will be held on Dec. 13th at 3 p.m. Instead of a gift exchange a monetary gift will be made to the White Community Board and Care Unit. Hostesses will be Anna Rose Smolich, Jennie Klune, Ann (Frank) Mismash, Delta Zabroski, Kris Klan-dar, Bemie Ceglar and Florence Holland.
Heritage Day in Aurora will be held on Dec. 13th and our Branch will have a Bake Sale Table at the Sr. Citizen’s
Center. Members will be contacted by our calling committee.
Committee for the Minnesota State Convention to be held in Aurora in September of 1988 will be chosen at the Dec. meeting. Ladies, it isn’t too early to be thinking of crafts, entertainment and speakers, etc.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to everyone.
ANNE M. ORAZEM
NO. 39, BIWABIK, MN
The members of Biwabik hope you all enjoyed your summer. Fall is upon us and we don’t know where the summer went.
Our Mother of the Year dinner was held in May at the hour Season Supper Club in Virginia. Thirty-eight mem-"bers attended. Our Mother of the
Year, Anne Purkat of McKinley, was presented with a corsage and a gift from the branch. All members attending who were 80 years of age or more, received their dinner with compliments of the branch. The membership attended Mass together and the Slovenian Women’s Union banner was displayed at the altar.
Angie Karish was nominated as an alternate delegate to the National Convention in Joliet in May. A meeting was scheduled in August to finalize plans for Zveza Day which was hosted by our branch on Sept. 13th. Husbands of members offered to help set up. Thank you.
It was noted that Br. 39 has been in existence since 1931. Let’s keep it going, ladies, and increase our membership.
Sincerely,
ROSEMARY RIBICH
BISHOP FREDERIC BACKERS HEAR GOOD NEWS
By Mary Anne Barothy
Over 500 enthusiastic Bishop Baraga backers from around the country gathered during the Labor Day weekend in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan at the invitation of Father Theodore Brodeur, pastor of Holy Name of Mary Church (where Bishop Baraga spent several years) to help celebrate the fifteenth year that the followers of Bishop Baraga’s Cause have been gathering on a large scale. The life of Bishop Baraga and his legacy follows along with the lives of other missionaries to the land including Father Isaac Jacques who said his first Mass in 1641 on the site of the Holy Name of Mary Church.
Bishop Baraga, a great missionary figure in the history of the American Catholic Church, was bom in Slovenia, now part of Yugoslavia, on June 29, 1797. He gave up the wealth of his family in his homeland and came to the United States in 1830 to devote his life to ministering to the American Indians of the Upper Great Lakes. Two of the most commonly known books about him are ‘The Apostle of the Lakelands’ and ‘The Snow Shoe Priest’. The Upper Great Lakes is landmarked with numerous Baraga monuments and his life is intricately woven into the history of the land.
Totally devoted to the Indians, Baraga spent over 37 years and covered over 80,000 square miles of Michigan, Wisconsin, Minnesota and Canada bringing the word of God to them. He spoke fluently the language of the Ottawa and Chippewa Indians, as well as Latin, German, French, Italian, English and his native tongue, Slovenian. Baraga, a fearless missionary and a sensitive and cultured priest, went from village to village seeking to help, bringing God’s word to the Indians. He died on January 19, 1868 after a life filled with exalted heroism and undiminished zeal for souls. Revered in his own day, his reputation for sanctity has increased enormously since his death.
The Baraga Backers who gathered at Lake Superior College on September 6th were greeted with GOOD news about the cause at the annual meeting.
Archivist Reverend Dan Rupp, Vice Postulator on the cause reported, “Usually you hear the expression - I have good news and bad news, but tonight I have good news and better news.
“The good news is that the Baraga diary that we have been working on for many years is now ready for publication. It was written in seven languages and part in old German gothic which very few can translate. It also included many of Baraga’s own notes with abbreviations which had to be interpreted.
“The better news is that after nearly 60 years of translating and compiling information, the Historical Commission is happy to announce that the biography of Bishop Baraga is now complete!”
The updated biography was compiled during the official diocesan hearings in 1972. The present biography has reconstructed Baraga's life including his difficulties and trials defending the Indians caring for the immigrants and struggling to establish Catholic schools and organizing a new diocese. This completed historical biography consists of 13 full binders, each approximately 250 pages which makes over 3,000 pages of information. During the summer, Father Bruno Korošak, OFM, has begun the next
step of translating the material which still needs to be put into Italian. He hopes to have this completed in the spring of 1989. Thus, the Marquette research in the life of Bishop Baraga is completed and the Baraga Cause is now in Rome.
As part of Michigan’s sesquicentennial celebration, Father Brodeur introduced a representative for the Mayor of Sault Ste. Marie, Mr. Bill Musel, who read the official announcement proclaiming BISHOP BARAGA DAYS in Sault St. Marie.
Proclamation
WHEREAS, Bishop Frederic Baraga played an important role in shaping Michigan’s early history and his many accomplishments and contributions will be highlighted during the Bishop Baraga Days celebration and,
WHEREAS, the purposes of Bishop Baraga Days, which is sponsored by the Bishop Baraga Association and are held each year in a different parish, is to keep his memory alive to celebrate his works and the fruits of his labor which are being expressed today and to pray for the success of his cause for canonization, and,
WHEREAS, one of the events of the Bishop Baraga Days will be the dedication of the Baraga House in its new location among the historical homes on Water Street, threfore, BE IT RESOLVED that I, James Alford, Mayor of the City of Sault Ste. Marie, in honor of this auspicious occasion, deem it an honor to proclaim September 5 & 6th, 1987 as BARAGA DAYS in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, and urge residents of the community and surrounding area to attend all Baraga Days activities.
Following Father Rupp’s presentation, Reverend Charles J. Strelick, Executive Director of the Bishop Baraga Association, had the pleasure of announcing the BARAGA MAN OF THE YEAR Award. Prior to making the announcement, Father Strelik said, “The Man of the Year is a man who has always been very dedicated to the cause of Bishop Baraga since he was ordained a priest in the diocese of Marquette, MI. He’s a man who during the past several years has delivered many homilies about Bishop Baraga and a man who has been most generous in his financial support of the Baraga cause. Even before he knew he was going to be the recipient of this award, he presented the Association with a check for $2,500. I am very happy to announce that the 1987 Baraga Man of the Year is Archbishop Edmund Szoka, Archbishop of Detroit, Michigan.
In accepting the award, Archbishop Szoka said, “I amd very happy to be able to join you and to be a part of this celebration. I knew about Bishop Baraga many years ago, but especially since I was ordained a priest 33 years ago. It is certainly my hope and prayer that he will someday be canonized a saint. I can assure you that once all of the documentation gets to Rome that maybe I can help. It’s hard to do much pushing until all of the documentation is finished. When it is, we’ll have many opportunities to promote the cause in Rome, and even directly to the Holy Father.”
His closing remarks reflected on the upcoming trip of the Holy Father to the United States and to his city of Detroit. He urged the faithful to pray that the Holy Father will have a successful trip and be able to inspire our Catholic people to have a deeper faith and to inspire everybody to come together in a spirit of faith for the common good of all.
The convention closed with a letter written by Archbishop Aloysius Šuster, Metropolitan of Ljubljana, Yugoslavia being read.
“We in Slovenia feel that today we are one with you in spirit and in prayers on behalf of the cause of Bishop Baraga. On Sunday, September 20, 1987, we in Slovenia will observe our annual Baraga Day in the city of Kamnik and again on that occasion we shall remember you and feel that we are one family in faith. May God grant us in this Marian Year that we may, through the intercession of the Mother of God, learn to imitate our great missioanry Bishop Frederic Baraga in his faithful following of Jesus Christ and the zealous endeavors for our people of God, and may God bless you all with best wishes - September 1, 1987 - Ljubljana.”
The Bishop Baraga Association convention ended on a very enthusiastic note as Archbishop Szoka said, “1 think that the Cause is progressing very well and that you can be pleased and hopeful. 1 am certainly very hopeful that we will all live to see that day - at least the beatification, and there is a good chance that we will live to see the canonization of bishop Baraga!”
A growing number of people throughout the country are becoming more aware of the cause of Bishop Baraga and his heroic life in our early Church history. History cannot be written without giving a great deal of credit to the tireless, brave missionaries, of which Bishop Frederic Baraga was one, who came to spread God's word in the land of the Indians.
In a day when there seem to be few, if any, people to admire and emulate, the life of Bishop Baraga stands out as a shining example for the young and old. He was a man of courage and faith and compassion for his fellow man. His was by no means an easy life. He faced more difficulties in one week than most of us face in one year. Did he complain? No! He had faith in God to take care of all of his needs and he went day by day working to spread God’s word to all.
For more information, or to become a member of the Bishop Baraga Association, contact:
The Cause of Bishop Baraga Diocese of Marquette 239 Baraga Avenue Marquette, MI 49855 or phone: (906) 226-7372
Membership in the Association is as follows:
Annual	5.00
Sustaining	10.00
Life (individual or family)	50.00
Life/Institutional	100.00
New members are always welcome. A quarterly bulletin is mailed out to members with the latest news on the Cause of Bishop Baraga.
^zominnEiota
Our State Convention has come and gone and now it’s time for me to write my last report as Regional President of Minnesota.
I cannot thank the lovely ladies of the Minnesota Branches enough for the honor they bestowed upon me, by electing me their Regional President 4 years ago. They are and will continue to be a vital link in our SWU organizations.
Our meeting was held at the Biwabik Pavilion. Mary Gotchnik of Ely, got things rolling early in the day by entertaining the ladies with music on her button box before the meeting.
The Zveza members of Minnesota were pleased that one of our members, Tory Bobence of the Tower-Soudan Branch #34 was elected National President at the National Convention held this past May.
Tory told the ladies that they hope to have the by-laws revisions sent to the printers by the end of this year, as they want to get them to the Branches as soon as possible.
Minnesota SWU wants to go on record as being opposed to the change in the Scholarship application. A letter has been sent to the National President, Editor, National Secretary and Treasurer, requesting that the application for membership qualifications be amended completely.
A lot of grandmothers have enrolled their grandchildren for various reasons; proud that their grandchildren are enrolled in an ethnic group. Perhaps the parents of the child are divorced or perhaps the mother is deceased. Whatever the reasons, and with all the questions being asked it only goes to prove that more time and input should have been given this resolution at the National Convention. I hope this issue is resolved and amended as quickly as possible. Let us not penalize our youth for problems they did not create.
We hope that the Slovenian Heritage Camp Tory spoke about will become a reality in the near future and will help the youth realize that there is a need to preserve and promote their heritage.
With the prizes that are offered in the upcoming membership campaign we certainly hope that "TORY’S GARDEN” grows by leaps and bounds. It would be nice if the ladies of Minnesota were the first to sow seeds of membership in this garden. Ladies, please promote memberships at your branch meetings!
The main business on our agenda was the election of a new president (Minnesota Regional). Congratulations to Emily Skull of Duluth Branch #33. May she have a happy and productive term of office. Our Vice President is none other than my past secretary, KATHY KNUTH. Good luck and best wishes.
To the Ladies of Branch #39: Thank you for hosting such a successful and wonderful Minnesota State Convention! Have it again real soon. We will he there. At this convention we had lots of food and superb entertainment, and such a festive atmosphere! Thanks again, Ladies.
Our next convention will he in Aurora on September
II,	1988. Ladies, we will see you all there.
God’s Love To You All!
Rose Maras
Your Minnesota Regional State President
NO. 38, CHISHOLM, MN
On Sunday, Nov. 1st, SWU Br. 38 sponsored an All Card Party, and for the first time, held a Silent Auction. Anne Nickovich and Rose Niemi were the auctioneers.
Jenny Samsa and crew served a taste-tempting chicken casserole for the luncheon. 84 women were in attendance. Prizes were awarded for card playing and many additional prizes were given in drawings. What a lovely party, with the same loyal members doing all the work! You can bet that you are appreciated! Hopefully, others will come forth to help at future doings.
Wednesday, November 4th, was our regular meeting night. The nominating committee presented a slate of officers for 1988. As there were no nominations from the floor, a unanimous ballot was cast by the secretary, and the following will be officers again for this coming year: President: Charlotte Laurich; Vice-President: Jennie Briski; Financial Secretary: Kathy Knuth; Recording Secretary: Ann Nusich, Auditors: Fran Lucas and Jo Zupancich. These officers will be installed in December. The officers wish to thank all of you for your confidence in them, and will serve you to the best of their ability.
Our annual Christmas party is scheduled for Wednesday, Dec. 2, at Valentini’s Supper Club. Many prizes will be awarded during the evening. A musical program will be presented, and, if Jennie and Annie don’t ranege, we’ll have a “half in pol” skit. The officers have a month in which to find talent for the program. So we think it will be a fun night.
At this meeting prizes were won by: travelling prize, Rosemary Tanko (incidentally her son, Steven, drew her name!) Door prize was won by Anne Walach.
Norma Salvini, Rose Faras, and Carmen Cardini served a lovely coffee and... Copies of “Slovenia” the magazine published in Ljubljana, were distributed to all present.
Wishing all a very Merry Christmas!
ANN NUSICH, Reporter
Sharing Memories With “Slava Sue”
Dear Slava Sue:
While studying abroad last January in Bath, England, one thing my friends and I looked forward to was receiving mail from home.
One day I got a note from my mom that I’ll never forget. It was a postcard of the Chicago skyline and her message was one I’d like to share. She asked me how I was doing and if I
Vote to [Refwrtm!
Our monthly deadline for articles is the first of the month previous to publication and I am anxious to remind you that this deadline is very important. The printing schedule allows me a few days of grace, but material received after the 5th of the month will be held for the following month’s issue. In the past I have tried to accommodate those who are a little late, but it is really difficult to continue this practice.
Your cooperation will be greatly appreciated.
JANUARY		
S	M	T W T F S
[1 2		
3	4	5] 6 7 8 9
10	11	Ifl3 14 15 16
17	18	19 20 21 22 23
24	25	26 27 28 29 30
31		
I know that when your articles are held for a month, it seems like a very long time until you see your messages in print. That is because we work on a one-month advance basis. Our schedule takes a full three weeks to get around the schedule from receipt of material until mailing. In order for
was also “keeping a log or dairy of my travels.”
What was so funny is that the same day I picked up some snapshots that I had developed of my new college surroundings at Bath. One of the pictures showed a typical farm scene right next to my dorm.
So I wrote home and told my mom that, yes, I am “keeping a log of my travels and also, I’m keeping a dairy, too!” with my note I sent her this picture!
Kati Gaber
Br. 2, Chicago, IL
ZARJA to reach you the first week of the month, it must be ready for delivery by the 25th. Each process takes its time, from copying, to setting, to printing, folding, gathering, stitching, trimming and then addressing. Each process has its own routine.
It is also very important that we have the correct mailing addresses and I urge all members to notify our office in advance, if possible. Each address change must be checked with our records in the Home Office first, then sent to the printery for plate-making. Our record-keeping is very tedious, but necessary.
At this time I would like to thank all the reporters, secretaries, columnists, those who work in any way to make ZARJA your welcome monthly news-messenger.
Other reminders: No ZARJA is printed in January, June or August. Photos are welcome and if possible, in black and while - if in color, please make sure the color contrasts are good, not too dark or too light, with distinctive focus on subjects, etc. Please send $5 for each photo you wish to have published, other than branch activity photo.
Advertisements are always welcome and rates may be obtained from the Editor.	Corinne Leskovar
FROM THE EDITOR:
MHIHIIinMIMIHIMIIIIIIIIIIHMHIHIIHIHMHIHIMHIIIIinilHIMIHIIIIIIIIIHIIinHIHMItlllHIHHIIMIIIIHIItMllllimilllllMIIIIHIIIIMIIIIIIHIIIItlHIHIIIHHinitlHIIIIIIIIIIMIHMHIIIHIIIHHIMHIHIIHHHIIMHMIHmiHllllinilimilMIIHHMMIIIIMII
My China Diary
The trip from Hong Kong to Shanghai, along the coastline of China, took several days. We were on the open sea and enjoyed balmy weather, blue skies and lively, deep blue water as it foamed behind our large and modem ship. We approached the strait between the mainland and Taiwan at night and there it was that we saw Chinese junks, some large with two or three masts, some smaller, as the fishermen worked the waters for the fish that provide their main diet.
One of the most unexpected sights and a little scary, too, for a moment, was seeing a brightly lighted “apparition” on the horizon one evening at twilight. I was sitting in the lounge with a friend and noticed this as 1 glanced out the window. I couldn’t believe it could be a boat, as it looked so immense and the lights were so bright. In fact, I couldn’t distinguish any boat at all, just a bank of powerful lights. I thought it was a UFO! My friend calmed me by saying, “It’s just a fishing boat!” Still, it was quite a sight!
We entered the port of Shanghai in the morning and debarked soon after. The Chinese representatives of the bank came on board with the early light and set up a money exchange for us. We also had a postal box brought on and stamps sold right here. What a convenience for someone who likes to write postcards! We knew that exchanging money would be a problem, too, so it was quite a good idea to have it all so convenient.
When I asked the sweet looking Chinese girl for 100 stamps (Rudy and I planned to share them) she looked at me and began twittering something in Chinese, first to herself, then to the two men who were nearby. She kept smiling and counting and really seemed all-flustered. I guess it was the biggest single order she had ever gotten!
It cost 90 yuan for single postcard postage to the US, which is about 28 cents US.
So now we were in Shanghai, in the land of fish and rice! We were part of the new wave of visitors to China, many thousands who are now traveling there and visiting the major cities, such as the port of Shanghai. Queen Elizabeth was here last year, maintaining good relations between the UK and China. History has recorded the bitter Opium War between these two countries over one hundred years ago. No matter what was done and who was wronged, the fact remains that China was open to the western world
and trade thereafter. In modern times, that is since World War II, and China’s liberation in 1949, things in China have moved slowly but our economic lecturer aboard the ship told us that once the sleeping giant that is China, with her massive labor force, awakens, there will be tremendous competition on all commercial fronts including the US.
Shanghai is a city of tree-lined streets, volumnous bicycle traffic - all the time and everywhere - and contrasts between old and new in architecture. Along the “Bund”, the Huangpu River-front boulevard that reminds one of Paris or Vienna, are beautiful structures, that were used for western trade offices and banks in the early part of this century. Now these buildings are used by the government. Old hotels are lovely, too, and this part of the city is very European in flavor. On the outskirts of the city, there is a growth of high-rises and modem hotels, some put up by international chains such as Sheraton, which are totally up to par with the best in the west.
But Old Shanghai is another story. The 12 million people residents live in very old structures, and the typical Chinese family lives in a very small area, either a room in an apartment, in a larger 2 to 12 story building (the newer, the taller), or behind a walled grouping of barracks that have an inner courtyard. It is all very grey and dismal to the eye, - with all uniform-sized windows (nine panes of glass in a square format). The older parts of town have a mixture of commercial and residential, and the newer parts have apartment complexes off the road several feet. We were told that there are elevators in the buildings 6 floors high or more. One thing is the same no matter what style of house they live in - every dwelling has at least one bamboo pole sticking out from a window, balcony, railing, etc. and on it are hanging all kinds of clothing, bedding, and the like. Where there is a crowded area and dense population, they even hang their sheets between trees on the roadway. Families are outdoors a lot - they live and cook and sit and walk and stand and talk and do everything outdoors. Cooking on the sidewalk is very common and they use small round bricks of coke to cook on, each one costing about 10 cents and lasting just one day. So, each day they have to buy another one. Since there is no open flame this cooking is possible anyplace. We saw many steaming pots of food set right on the sidewalks
where people could line up to get some lunch in their own dishes... the Chinese version of fast food!
There were so many bicycles that we wondered how traffic can be maintained without accidents. Everyone is very nonchalant, riding their bikes in crowded streams -maybe ten deep. The bicycles, besides people and babies, carry all kinds of commerce, too. All over China you see a variety of carts, trailers, all loaded with material being transported. Some of it was funny. We saw one driver manuevering thru the crowd with a flat trailer attached to his bike, on which was a long sofa and sitting at one end was a lady holding a parasol!
There are only 5000 private automobiles in all of China, but many government cars, trucks, taxis and buses! They are packed with so much humanity that one cannot see any light thru the windows!
There are 5 million bicycles in Shanghai alone. Each one has to be registered and since they all look alike, especially if you see them by the thousands parked in one area, near, perhaps, a railroad station or factory, you really wonder. Fixing bicycles is also a big business - you can find any number of little repair places anywhere along the street. They do it right on the sidewalk where the repairman displays all his old and new parts. They repair shoes that way, too.
The agrarian reform of the past ten years has changed the way Chinese farmers work. Now the best product in any one market area is selected by the farmers’ syndicate and any surplus is put on the open market. In September it was apples and we saw tons of yellow apples being sold from all kinds of stands, in baskets, in sidewalk stalls. They cost about 30 cents for a kilogram.
Let me return for a moment to our first welcome to Shanghai. It was announced to us that we could expect to see a lovely welcome on the dock and sure enough, about
8	a.m. we heard music playing and an invitation to look out. On the dock, along the edge, were these little children, 80 of them, some dressed as pandas and others just in colorful little outfits, all alike, and all holding little flowers or colored scarves. They danced and did certain movements, all very graceful and in time with the music. Not for one moment in the entire hour they were there did the music or the children hesitate. It was all non-stop movement and smiling faces! There were some teachers or chaperones nearby, but the children did their act without any supervision. We just couldn’t believe it! It was remarkable and most appealing to all of us on board. Buses were parked nearby and we boarded them for our sightseeing in the city - meanwhile the children were invited to have some refreshments on the ship and I’m sure that this was the best incentive for the performance. jn f,e continued...
UREDNICA
Moj dnevnik — Kitajska
Vse od Hong Konga pa do Shanghai-ja nas je vodila morska pot, pot ob obali velike Kitajske, dežele znamenite preteklosti in predvsem bogate kulture. Lepo je biti na morju, predvsem, če tam v daljavi vidiš obalo, ali jo vsaj čutiš, potem je vse bolj prijazno, potem je modro nebo še bolj privlačno, potem je ladja varno prebivališče, potem so vse ribiške ladje kot oaze želja, nebo kot hrepenenje, prostrano morje kot večnost, sončni zahod kot sanje, ki si jih še želim.... in tu je Shanghai, ves blesteč v prijaznem jutru. Vsepovsod prijetni obrazi polni pričakovanja, ljudje, ki se znajo veseliti vsake najmanjše stvari, ki znajo biti presenečeni in znajo presenetiti. Je morda v tem skrivnost njihove sreče? Prav gotovo! V pristanišču kjer mi ponujajo znamke in kartice, da bom lahko poslala pozdrave na drugi konec sveta, me občudujoče spremljajo oči majhne deklice, ki prodaja znamke, pa kako tudi ne bi, saj jih z Rudi naročiva kar sto -ne more verjeti če je res, zato sprašuje če je res prav razumela. Draga moja deklica, deklica kitajske mladosti, nikoli ne bom pozabila tvojih nasmejanih in razprtih oči in ko se ponovno vidiva, bom naročila dvesto znamk, da boš srečnejsa...
Dežela rib in riža, vsepovsod je ta dežela prepletena s tem znamenjem in prizadevam si, da bi tudi jaz postala del tega, da bi se uvrstila med velika imena, saj je celo kraljica Elizabeta bila tu pred letom dni, pa saj nimam nobene želje po kraljevski kroni, le mir in sožitje iščem, kot ga je iskala ona, rada bi bila kot drobna, še vsa prezebla ptica lastovica, ki še ne naznanja pomladi, pa vendar je tu, rada bi spleti drobno nit med zahodom in vzhodom... vse v upanju, da bo nekoč tu vzcvetela večna pomlad. Je to mogoče? Je mogoče vzgojiti cvetlico, ki bo uspevala v Parizu, Londonu, Chicagu in Shanghai-u, bo mogoče povezati barake Shanghai-a z modernimi mesti zahoda, ne samo trgovsko in politično, temveč splesti niti srca?
Mislim, da je vse mogoče saj je končno vseno ali živiš v stolpnici s tridesetimi, pedesetimi nadstropji, ali pa v leseni ali z blata narejeni koči. Ni pomembno kaj in kako kdo kuha, kaj in kako kdo je, kako se oblači, nadvse pomembno pa je, kaj čuti srce; niti ni važno ali se voziš s biciklom, prevoznim sredstvom vzhoda, ali bogato limuzino zahoda, važno je da dosežeš zaželjeni cilj. In na koncu koncev so vsi bicikli registrirani na podoben način kot so naši avtomobili in čigava zamisel je to, kaj res ne moremo brez številk in mrtvih črk?
Pa kultura, ples, glasba, ki nas prebuja vsako jutro, otroška srca. ..(Se nadaljuje).
Rev. Athanasius Lovrenčič, O.F.M.
<144; nzzct č^zzisbnas
In our daily lives we meet all kinds of things. We all know that for happy days when things are running smoothly we do not need special help. But these days we do need help. Today, not only individuals but all the nations are looking for solutions, looking for someone to bring us new hope again. It is sad that nations do not accept the One sent by God Himself who is the tiny Babe of Bethlehem. Statesmen are meeting, discussing and solving the problems that beset the human race. There is only one who can solve our problems if we accept Him — Christ.
We feel so helpless today because we do not want to accept the helping hand that our Heavenly Father is offering us in Christ. As we kneel before the crib we see how this Divine Child is stretching His little hands towards us, toward the whole human race and begs to be accepted, to be loved.
So, let us open our homes and our hearts and tell Him that He is most welcome in our home and beg Him to stay with us, to bless us because only in Him do we have hope. Through the centuries the Divine Child of Bethlehem brought to millions new hope and courage, new strength and vision. Let us accept Him regardless what the world does, because we need Him.
A blessed and joyous Christmas to all!
ADORATION OF THE SHEPHERDS
A. Van Dyck
Kunsthalle, Hamburg, West Germany
p. Atanazij Lovrenčič, ofm.
Soy rriEcl nami.
Pred božičem so naše trgovine podobne čebeljnaku; vse brenči in išče darov za božič, kot čebele med. A na božično vigilijo se vrata trgovine zapro. Ulice postanejo prazne, kajti ljudje se vračajo domov, da so s svojo družino. Lahko rečemo, da je božič dan, ki zbliža razne člane družin bolj kot kak drugi praznik. In ni čudno. Na božični dan je Nebeški Oče sprejel nas vse v svojo nebeško družino, ko je poslal svojega Sina, daje postal človek. S tem da nas je posinovil, smo postali deležni neštetih nebeških darov. Ni čudno, da na božič dajemo darove svojim dragim, ko nam je Bog dal največji dar, svojega Sina. A na žalost veliko ljudi ne sprejme to bethlehemsko Dete. A mi ga sprejmemo in zato imamo vzrok do pravega veselja ko praznujemo njegov rojstni dan. Prav je, da so naša srca vesela, da se navžijemo pravega veselja, ki bo naša moč v časih preizkušenj. Z veselimi srci postavljamo jaslice po svojih domovih in občudujemo božjo ljubezen, ki je šla tako daleč, da je Bog sam prišel med nas. Dokler bo to božje Dete med nami, ne bomo sami in ni se nam treba bati kajti On je veliki Bog in Knez miru.
Naj to nebeško Dete napolni vaša srca in vaše domove s svojim mirom in blagoslovom.
Cirila Kermavner:
<zAfsJzaj !IB>oziani(z oljLcaj&j
Novo cerkveno leto se prične z adventom in tako stopimo v božično dobo. Na Slovenskem ozemlju, pa naj bo Gorenjska, Dolenjska, Bela krajina, Štajerska, Primorska, Prekmurje, se je začel v advent z molitvijo rožnega venca in z mašo "zornice” ter postom. Zornice- pomeni zgodnja maša. Ponekod so imenovali te maše zlate maše.
Pričeti se je morala zgodaj, ker so ljudje imeli doma živino za (nafutrati) nakrmiti.
Sreda in sobota sta bili imenovani “kvaterna”. Te dni se ni smelo najesti do sitega. Petek je bil že itak post, a v adventu je bil še strožji.
Tako se je slovenska družina začela dušno in telesno pripravljati na božične praznike.
Ko se je stelja pospravljala in listje grabilo so že gledali kje bodo dobili lepi mah. Kak mesec pred božičem, ko so začutili sneg so se odpravili v gmajno nabirati mah. Doma so ga razgrnili ali na podu, izbi (podstrešju) ali na skednju. Tam se je sušil do dneva pred božičem. Postrgali so pa tudi smolo s smrek, za kajenje.
Gospodinja z dekleti je začela pospravljati po hiši, gospodar s fanti pa okoli hiše, pode, hleve.
Par dni pred božičem so naredile dekleta preste in obročke iz sladkorja; kakor tudi piškote za na drevešček. Zavili so tudi bonbone v lep bel svilen papirček. Papirček so narezali na štirikotne pole in ga na drobno narezali na dveh nasprotnih straneh in v to so zavili bonbon. Nekateri pa niso imeli niti denarja za bonbone so pa v papirček zavijali " virfel cuker”. V mestu pa so kupili male svečke s ščipalkami, ki so jih potem pripeli na smrekove vejice. To so bili kar precej običajni okraski slovenskega dreveščka. Seveda so imeli še kake druge okraske, a za to je bilo treba denarja, katerega pa takrat ni bilo v izobilju. Na Gorenjskem so si ponekod fantje med seboj sposojali lepe kipce pastirčkov in ovc, katere so potem položili v kit, da so dobili lep vtis figure in nato so to pa vlili v gibs.
Večina slovenskih domov pa je imela štalco iz lubja ali lesa — lipovega. Sv. Družina, pastirčki in ovce so bile ponavadi kupljene na veliki trdi poli, kjer je bilo vse to lepo naslikano. Nato je bilo treba vse to izrezati, na nenaslikani strani so naredili podstavke iz lesa ali so pa nalimali palčice, da so jih nato lahko zataknili v mah. Ponekod so pa rezljali celotne jaslice iz lipovega lesa. Lipov les je bil zelo dober za rezljanje svetih stvari.
Dan pred svetim dnevom so skoro vsepovsodi gospodinje začele s peko potic — orehovih, rozinovih, rožičevih. Kjer niso imeli denarja so rabili rožičevo moko za nadev.
Na Dolenjskem so spekli male ptičice iz moke. Vsak otrok je dobil po eno. Velikost ptičic je bila odvisna od: koliko moke je še ostalo od peke.
Pred prazniki so tudi klali prašiče in pitali kure, v Beli krajini pa purane. Hiša in okoli	nje	vse
je	bilo ze lepo pospravljeno in s poticami v krušni peči je že vse dišalo po praznikih.
Dan pred božičem je bil strogi post. Na Gorenjskem je trajal do zvonjenja Ave Marije in potem je bila večerja. Krvavice, pečenice in kisle zelje. V Beli Krajini in na Dolenjskem je bil post pa vse tja	do polnoči. Za večerjo so skuhali nekaj mlečnega in malo suhega sadja.
Dopoldne pred svetim večerom so se odpravili fantje v gozd po malo smrečko in	palce za
bakle. Te palce so na koncu drobno nasekali in pustili skupaj. Po peki so jih dali v peč sušiti, da bodo ravno prav za zvečer.
Popoldne so začeli z jaslicami. Lepo so razložili mah ali v bohkov kot ali pa za to pripravljeno mizo, V ozadju so ponekod postavili malo smrekico in pod njo štalico in okrog so nato po mahu potaknili pastirčke in ovce.
V	mraku po zvonjenju Zdrave Marije se je začelo kropljenje hišnih prostorov, hleva, podov in polja. Gospodar je šel naprej in molil rožni venec in kropil. Eden od otrok je nesel posodo z žegnano vodo kamor je gospodar pomakal smrekovo vejico. Drugi pa je nesel posodo z žerjavico, na kateri je bila smrekova smola, da je lepše dišalo in to je bilo kajenje.
Po kropljenju so vsi pokleknili okrog mize in zmolili še tri rožne vence ter litanije. Potem so posedli pred jaslice in peli božične pesmi.
Medtem so ponavadi prišli bližnji sosedje v vas, voščiti praznike, pogledati jaslice in nato so se odpravili k polnočnici.
Farna cerkev je bila ponavadi oddaljena od vasi — vsaj eno uro, če ne več. Ljudje so si nažgali bakle, da so si svetili v temni noči. Včasih kadar je sneg zapadel visoko so morali stopati po stopinjah eden za drugim.
Vsi polni hrepenenja so hiteli v svetišče počastiti novorojeno Detece. In res vstopili so v božji hram, ki je bil tako lep, da jih je le tanka tenčica ločila od nebes.
Polnočnica — maša veselja in radosti. Rojen nam je Rešenik!
Med slovesnostjo so si trkali čevlje, ker je ljudi zeblo v noge, ker je bila pot tako naporna in dolga.
Kljub mrazu so se vračali domov polni veselja in radosti, saj so prisostvovali pri polnočnici; rojstvu Jezusa.
Doma so otroci splezali na krušno peč in kar tam zaspali, Starejši so se pa posedli okoli peči. Popili malo lipovega čaja in odšli spat.
Po polnočnici je ponekod tudi Jezušček obiskal po hišah otroke. Prinesel jim je kako kapo, rokavice, nogavice.
Sveti Dan. Ta dan je moral iti vsak kristjan k trem mašam - na čast Noverojenemu Detetu.
Popoldne so šli k nauku, večernicam in ponekod so šli kar od nauka naprej voščiti praznike bližnjim sosedom in žlahti. Zvečer po rožnemu vencu pa spat.
26. dec. Sv. Štefan je bil še vedno praznik. Zjutraj so odšli podružno-svojo cerkev v vasi. Na Štefanovo je bilo praznično, a vse bolj sproščeno.
Na Dolenjskem so že ob peti uri zjutraj začeli fantje nahjati s konji po vasi in jih razkazovati kdo ima lepšega konja. Včasih so jih vso noč krtačili in štrglali, da so se zjutraj lahko postavili. 27. dec. St. Janž - Sv. Janez še vedno praznično razpoloženje inseveda zjutraj k sv. maši. Na Gorenjskem so se ponavadi premenjavali posli na ta dan. Nekateri so ostali še pri istemu gospodarju in se zmenili za plačo za prihodnje leto in prejeli plačo od preteklega leta. Drugi so odšli k novemu gospodarju.
28. dec. Nedolžni otroci-tepežni dan. Za ta dan so na Dolenjskem spletli šibe iz brezovih vej. Otroci so šli po vasi od hiše do hiše in govorili: “Rešite se, rešite se, še za drugo leto," in se vsakega dotaknili s šibo. Ljudje so jim potem darovali ali suho sadje ali prešce ali pa kak krajcar
—	dinar. To je spomin na otroke pomorjene od Heroda.
31. dec. Staro leto — drugi sv. večer. Zopet se je kropilo in molilo kot	ob	prvemu	sv.	večeru.
V	spominu na preteklo leto in v molitvi se je pričakalo novo leto.
1. jan. Novo leto se je obhajalo skoro z isto slovesnostjo kot božič.
6. jan. Sv. Trije Kralji. Na večer pred praznikom je bil tretji sv. večer. Kropilo se je isto kot ob božiču, le na vsaka vrata so napisali s kredo začetne črke G. + M. + B. Gašper, Miha, Boltežar. To so bili sv. Trije Kralji — popotniki za katere je bil namenjen kruh poprtnik, ki so ga pekli na Dolenjskem in še nekaterih drugih krajih po Sloveniji.
Po Sv. Treh Kraljih so se tudi fantje hodili ženiti.
2. feb. Svečnica — še vedno velik praznik ob konca božične dobe. Sv. Janez	Krstnik	—	prva
luč	pot k svetlobi. Blagoslovili so sveče: za zadnjo uro, za hudo uro itd.
Ob svečnici so se podrle tudi jaslice.
Tako se je slovenski človek pripravljal na prihod božjega Deteta z dušo ih telesom.
Prisrčna hvala sledečim, ki so mi pomagale sestavit mali delček slovenskih običajev v božični dobi: Pavla Dolinar, Marija Cugelj, Danica Chemas in Alojzija Jurkovič.
PS;
?L
I
čzA^emousa oj- cSHouzman GfiuitrnoA č!uiionzi
The new Church Year has just begun - with the first Sunday of Advent, November 29th.
In Slovenia, whether it be in Gorenjsko, Dolenjsko, Primorsko, Prekmurje, Bela krajina or Štajersko, Advent began in the old days with the praying of the Rosary and early morning mass called “zomica” or “golden mass” because it was very, very early in the morning. It had to be early so that the peasants could take care of their livestock at the usual time.
On the two weekdays of Wednesday and Saturday, people fasted. Fasting was much more strict in Advent than in Lent.
With these customs the people began their Christmas preparations. First, the family got to work, clearing the farms of leaves and debris. There they searched for green moss that could be preserved in the bams and attics till it dried and would be ready for Christmas. Pinetar was also gathered for the special ceremony of blessing the fields.
The housekeepers and young girls would use this time to tidy their homes and the menfolk cleaned around the house and bams.
A few days before Christmas was the time for baking ornaments for a little Christmas tree. They were similar to pretzels and cookies. Candy was also wrapped in little papers fringed at the ends to make them pretty. Families too poor to buy candy used little pakets of sugar instead. Tiny candles could be bought to clip onto the tree. They were a favorite. These were the common decorations and fancier ones were usually available only in the stores - bought by people who could afford to spend hard currency.
In Gorenjnsko, up in the hills, some of the young men borrowed from each other, figures of shepherds and sheep, casting their own copies in plaster. A Christmas creche was in every home. The stable was ususlly made of linden-wood in which the Holy Family, shepherds and sheep were placed. The figures were usually cut out of cardboard with colorful pictures pasted on. The cut outs had to have little braces fixed on them to make them stand; sometimes these were sticks placed into the moss for balance. The entire creche could also be made of one piece of wood, usually linden-wood which was easy to cut.
On the day before Christmas, almost everywhere, the homemakers began baking poticas with favorite fillings of walnuts and raisins — St. John’s Bread flour for the filling was used by the poorer families who couldn’t buy things in the store. In Dolenjsko, mama would make little birds from the excess dough left-over from the poticas, and each child would get one. The left over flour determined how big the birds could be.
Before the holidays was also the time for slaughtering a pig or killing a chicken tho in Bela krajina they preferred turkeys.
All around the house was order and beauty, and within, the wonderful smells of cooking and baking in the tile stoves. That is what gave the holidays its special enchantment.
But, on the day before Christmas, everyone observed strict fast. In Gorenjslko it lasted until the church bells rang the Ave Maria. After that, a big dinner was served with all the best things prepared the days before... sausages, roasts of pork and sauer kraut.
In Bela krajina they fasted until midnight and then ate only some cooked dairy foods and a little cooked fruit.
On that morning, the young men went out into the woods and brought home small fir trees and sticks that would be used for torches. The sticks had to be chopped up at the ends and tied together. After the ovens were used for baking, the sticks were put into them for a few hours to dry.
In the afternoon, it was time for setting up the nativity scene. The dried moss would be placed either on a little table or in the “God’s comer’’ and a small tree or pine branches would go behind it and around. The moss provided the setting for the shepherds and sheep figures. At dusk, after they heard the Ave Maria bells rung in the village, it was time for the ceremony of blessing their house, barn and fields. Father led the way, praying the rosary and blessing with a sprig of pine and behind him, one of the children carried a dish of holy water into which father would dip the pine branch from time to time. Another child carried a container of hot coals onto which was placed a bit of the pinetar and this aroma filled the air. After blessing all the interior and exterior, the family gathered around the table and prayed three rosaries and the litanies. They sat in front of the creche and sang Christmas songs.
Oftentimes, neighbors would drop during this part of the day to visit, see the decorations and extend holiday greetings.
Midnight mass was the highlight of Christmas. Usually, the village church was some distance, at least an hour away by foot. Almost every one carried a lighted torch to light their way in the dark night. Sometimes deep snow would make this walk difficult so one would follow another along the path, each stepping into footsteps before him. Full of expectation, the people hurried into the beautifully decorated
church to pray before the Christ Child. It seemed they really stepped into the blessed stable that was so beautiful, so holy... just a thread apart from heaven.
Midnight mass — happiness and joy —The Savior is bom!
During the ceremonies the sound of the feet pounding on the wooden floors could be heard as the people warmed their frozen feet after their long and arduous journey. But, even tho they were cold and tired, the way home from church was full of enchantment for everyone for hadn’t they just been witnesses to the birth of Christ?
Once home, the children climbed onto the tile stove and fell asleep and the elders sat around the stove resting and drinking linden tea and warming themselves. They, too, went to bed soon after.
Sometimes, the baby Jesus visited the homes and left little gifts for the children, such as caps, mittens or stockings.
And now, the Holy Day of Christmas. This day it was an obligation that every Christian went to three masses, in honor of the new-born Babe. In the afternoon, the children went to their catechism lesson, then to the afternoon church service and finally, to visit their neighbors and relatives to extend greetings of the season. That evening, after the rosary, they went to bed.
Another blessed and happy day followed... the feast of St. Stephen, Dec. 26th. This was the day people visited their closest church (usually there were branch churches closer to where the farmers lived while the main church, where Christmas Midnight Mass was celebrated, was a distance away.). St. Stephen's day was a day for fun and enjoyment.
In Dolenjsko, it was a custom that the boys rode their horses early in the morning and showed them off in the village. It was not unusual that they spend the whole night beforehand currying the horses to make them look their best.
Then came St. John’s Day, Dec. 27th. St. John’s was another holiday that began with mass but it was special in that it was the day when workers could change their jobs. Some men negotiated better pay for the same job and some found new employers. It was the day for paying off the year’s wages and beginning a new “contact” for different or new work.
The following day, Dec. 28th it was the day the children looked forward to — it was the Day of the Innocents and the custom was quite strict. That day, the children ran all over the village, from house to house, and called out: “Save yourselves, save yourselves for the new year!” and with this they could hit anyone they saw. In Dolenjsko, the children used whips they made of birch branches. Everyone who wanted to be saved from the whip or stick had to come up with a bribe and/or payment such as a piece of dried fruit or pretzel or a cookie, perhaps even a "dinar” (coin). This custom was in observance of the time when King Herod had all the babies killed.
As the week progressed, the family looked forward to the last day of the year, Dec. 31st, the feast of St. Sylvester. Again the farm buildings were blessed and the family prayed as they did on Christmas Eve. They prayed in thanksgiving for the past year and in anticipation of the new year. The next day, Jan. 1st, was spent like Christmas Day with visiting and family prayers.
A week later, on the eve of the feast of the Three Kings, Jan. 6th, families observed the third holy evening. The house blessing was done again and was different only in that they marked the entrance of each of their buildings with the symbols G + M + B, honoring the Three Wisemen, Gasper, Miha and Boltezar, who traveled the farthest to see the Christ Child. From the word “popotniki”, travelers, is taken the name "poprtnik” for the Christmas bread baked in Dolenjsko and some other places in Slovenia.
(Another custom is known, that of placing this bread, covered with a white cloth, on the main table and then shared on Christmas Day by the family. As mother tore off a piece of the bread, she held it high up and made each child jump to reach it. If he or she found a coin or some other symbol that had been baked into the bread, it meant special luck for the year ahead. Ed. note.)
This was also a day selected by the boys to visit their girls with the intent to set up marriage plans!
We come now to Feb. 2nd, Candlemas Day. This is another big holiday for Slovenians, at the end of Christmas-tide, celebrating St. John the Baptist, the first "light” on the path of brightness. The blessing of the candles was done, as protection against danger, disaster, death. On this day the nativity scene was dismantled.
So, this is the way Slovenians prepared for and celebrated the coming of the Blessed Babe — with their souls and their bodies.
My thanks to the following for their help combining some of these customs for you: Pavla Dolinar, Marija Cugelj, Danica Chemas and Alojzia Jurkovič.
(Editor’s note: In translating this piece, some phrases are transposed into typical English phrases to make them better understood but most of the article is literally translated from the Slovenian, to give students of the language a better comparison.)
POTS & PANS Holiday Recipes!
After the Slovenian meat market in Sheboygan closed where my mother purchased deliciously seasoned rolled pork roast, she developed a recipe which I found in her file - pork roast was one of her favorite meat dishes. Since some of the amounts of seasoning were not given, I estimated the measurements (you may want to adjust seasoning according to your taste).
At the October Wisconsin Regional Meeting in Milwaukee, 1 requested Christmas recipes some of which are: an attractive RASPBERRY CAROUSEL SALAD from Ruth Sheck, President of Branch No. 1, Sheboygan, delicious CHEESE SQUARES by Shirley Schulta, Br. No. 43, Milwaukee, and a super RICH CHEESECAKE by Rose Larek of Br. No. 12, Milwaukee.
A Merry and Blessed Christmas to all,
ROAST PORK
3-4 pounds pork roast, boneless	1	teaspoon salt
or with bone	1	teaspoon poultry seasoning
1	tablespoon flour	!/<	teaspoon paprika
1;j teaspoon cloves	teaspoon cinnamon
Pre-heat oven to 500°. Combine the ingredients and rub into the meat. Roast meat uncovered at 500° for 10 minutes. Turn heat down to 300°. Add 1 cup hot water to meat. Cover and roast 2 hours or until tender.
GRAVY: Keep meat warm. Pour drippings from pan into bowl, leaving brown particles in pan. Skim off fat. Add 2 tablespoons of fat to pan; add 2 tablespoons flour and cook until thickened, stirring. Remove from heat. Stir in 1 cup liquid (ungreased drippings 1/2 cup milk and water to make one cup). Boil 1 minute, stirring. Season with salt and pepper.
RASPBERRY CAROUSEL SALAD
1	package (3 ounces) Raspberry	lU	cup chopped walnuts
Flavor Jell-0	1	package (3 ounces)
2	cups boiling water	Lemon Flavor Jell-0
3/< cup cranberry juice cocktail	1	carton Cool Whip (4-1/2 ounces),
1	cup diced apple	thawed
1I;4 cup sliced celery	x'i	cup real mayonnaise
Dissolve Raspberry Jell-O in 1 cup boiling water. Add cranberry juice cocktail and chill until thickened, about 1 hour. Fold in apple, celery and nuts; spoon into 6-cup ring mold and chill until set. Dissolve Lemon Jell-O in remaining 1 cup boiling water. Chill until slightly thickened, about 20 to 25 minutes. Combine whipped topping and mayonnaise; fold into Jello-O. Spoon into mold. Chill until firm, at least 4 hours. Unmold. Garnish with crisp salad greens and sliced apples, if desired.
CHEESE SQUARES
2	packages (8 ounces each) cream
cheese, room temperature
2	packages (8 ounces each) crescent
refrigerated rolls
2	eggs
3	cup sugar
!/3	cup sugar
l'i	cup chopped nuts
In an ungreased 10 x 15-inch pan stretch 1 package crescent rolls dough to fit pan. Cream 2 packages cream cheese and 2 egg yolks with 2/3 cups sugar. Spread over dough. Cover with second package of crescent rolls, stretching carefully.
Beat egg whites until frothy. Spread over dough and sprinkle with 1/3 cup sugar and 1/2 cup chopped nuts. Bake at 350° for 30 minutes.
Cut in squares when cooled.
NO. 40, LORAIN, OH
It’s October, the days are getting shorter and the leaves are turning color and in a few weeks we will be turning our clocks back one hour. You guessed it, it’s autumn and winter is not too far off.
Thanksgiving and Christmas will be here, and before you realize it we will be making our resolutions for the new year. Time marches on and there is no stopping it.
Sixteen members were present at our Oct. 14th meeting.
Missing were three familiar faces, Sec. & Treas. Angie Kozjan, Mary Ploszaj and Sophie Pogacher who are
ill. We wish you all a speedy recovery.
Angie Voytko took over for her mom and read the secretary’s report. Angie is a leader, just like her mother. Thanks, Angie, for a job well done.
Our door prize winner was Theresa Rajher.
Due to circumstances the day for our Christmas Tureen was changed to Tuesday Dec. 8th.
RICH CHEESECAKE
Crust:
l3/4	cups graham cracker crumbs	x'i	cup butter or margarine,
(about 11 double crackers)	melted
f/4	cup granulated sugar	l,i	teaspoon cinnamon
Mix all ingredients in small bowl. Press on bottom and side of a 9 x 10-inch springform pan (without center hole).
Filling:
3	packages (8 ounces each)	\	teaspoon sail
cream cheese, room temperature 4	large eggs
l1^	cups granulated sugar	1	teaspoon vanilla
Preheat oven to 350". Beat cream cheese, sugar and salt in large bowl until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time beating well after each addition. Beat in vanilla. Pour into crust. Bake on third rack from bottom of oven at 350" for 30 minutes and at 325" for 25 minutes. Remove from oven; let stand 15 minutes. Reset oven to 450".
Topping:
1	carton (16 ounces)	1	teaspoon vanilla
sour cream (2 cups) f/4	cup granulated sugar
As cake cools for 15 minutes, mix sour cream, sugar and vanilla. Spread evenly overcake. Bake 10 minutes. Cool 45 minutes; then chill.
If you haven’t signed up, please call either Mary at 288-8002 or Agnes at 245-3919.
Voluntary donations to the Slovenian Folk Dancers under the direction of our Angie Voytko are welcome. And, by the way, they performed at the Octoberfest held at the German Villa recently.
Our hostesses were Theresa Rajher, Agnes Tomazin and Mary Ploszaj’s daughter who brought refreshments, since Mary was unable to attend.
Others who made donations were Frances Tilosanec, Jean Yelenc and Mary Matos. Thanks to all.
Angie Voytko and 1 made a report on the Ohio-Mich. convention. Between the two of us, what I forgot Angie remembered.
We got to meet many lovely ladies and we felt it was a day well spent.
Our happy travelers are Jean and husband George.
Jean said it feels so good to be able to pick up and go since George retired from work. They just returned from Indian Town Gap, PA, where they went for the 28th Division Army reunion.
A couple of days later they left for
a four day trip to Nashville, Tenn. to see Opryland U.S.A.
Watch for the next issue of the ZARJA for details of their next trip on Dec. 16th. They also attended their 45th class reunion recently. They graduated with the Clearview Class of 1942. They had a happy time.
Laurie Lynn Cappas and Lt. Kenneth A. Septaric were married Sept. 12th in St. Columbkille Catholic Church in Seven Hills, Ohio. They will reside in England. Kenneth is the grandson of our Annette Septaric. Congratulations.
It was two years on Dec 5th that God called our beloved “Binnie” to her eternal reward in heaven.
We sadly miss her lovely smile and her interesting articles which she sent to the ZARJA every month even though she was gravely ill.
She may be gone, but her memory will linger on.
May God grant her peace.
Hope to see you at our Christmas Tureen on Dec. 8th.
Happy Thanksgiving and Merry Christmas to all.
Love,
MARY MATOS
NO. 42, MAPLE HGTS., OH
Greetings from Br. 42. The days are getting shorter and old man winter is just around the comer.
Happy birthday to the November birthday ladies, Cilka Hočevar, Betty Gawor, Teresa Gorup, Josephine Stolz, Louise Toth and Jenifer Kosak. Happy birthday to those celebrating in December, Frances Wenckus, Marge Church, Chris Hajek, Eleanor Lipnos, Yong Hui, Donna Stubljer, Susan Shega, Julia Lipnos, Anne Tomsic, Frances Zakrajšek and Mary Yemec. Since there will not be a January issue, here are greetings to the January birthday ladies, too: Lao Camille, Pat Wenckus, Kelly Gaines, Elizabeth Shega, Beth Ann Harr, Karen Lockhart, Anna Resin and Ann Marie Buehner.
To our sick members, especially Mary Stimetz, our prayers are with you, and Jean Offut’s husband, Joe. We wish you well.
Sympathy goes out to Lillian Sadowski and family on the loss of her husband. May he rest in peace. He was Frances Tomsic’s brother in law.
Granddaughter of yours truly, Cynthia Piechowski, will become a lay minister at St. Martin of Tours. Jamie Wilk, daughter of Donna Wilk and granddaughter of Mitzi Champa, won first place in the equestrian horse show, plus two more ribbons in a different category. Congratulations, Jamie!
Betty Gawer was honored with twin baby great granddaughters. Her granddaughter, Diane is the proud mother. Congratulations! Betty spent one month with Diane in North Carolina, then she was in Maryland for three weeks. Betty is getting ready to go to North Carolina to stay the winter with her daughter, Betty.
Mary Ann Filip’s cousin, Virginia Mikrut, from Duluth, Minnestoa paid her a visit. She was on her way with a party of twenty-five SWU members to Jugoslavia for two weeks. On her way back, she paid Mary Ann another visit. Josie Gruden took a trip to West Virginia to visit her sister-in-law, Josephine Gruden, then went on to visit Mary Merrifies and Jennie Gruden. Sorry to hear that Olga Ponik-var’s sister, Rose Kifly is in the hospital. May God give her a good recovery.
CONTEST
MY SPECIAL SLOVENIAN CHRISTMAS EXPERIENCE
This is to announce the first annual “SLOVENIAN CHRISTMAS CONTEST”! Write a short essay, from 75-150 words about how unique your Christmas holiday is since you are of Slovenian heritage. You are encouraged to send a photo, sketch or example along with your essay.
Write about any Christmas topic you wish, such as St. Nicholas Parties and how you’ve participated in this Slovenian custom; Christmas tree decorating, midnight mass; hand made gifts; delicious homemade pastries and cakes; etc. Write about how your Christmas holiday is EXTRA SPECIAL since you have an interesting Slovenian tradition in your family. You can send as many essays as you want, but write about only one custom per essay. It may be written in either English or Slovenian.
The contest will be divided into two age categories:
1) Any youth,	regardless of membership between the ages of 7 — 17 may participate.	All	participants	will
receive a reward or	prize, and the two best essays will be printed in ZARJA.
2) Any young	adult, regardless of membership between the ages of 18-30	may participate.	The two	best
essay winners will receive a reward and their essays will be printed in ZARJA.
All essays will be judged on a) originality
b) creativity
c) novelty
d) organization
Your essay on “MY SPECIAL SLOVENIAN CHRISTMAS EXPERIENCE” must be printed or typed, and sent to Ms. Bernadette Kovacic, 235 Hannes Street, Silver Spring, MD 20901
DEADLINE DATE - JANUARY 10, 1988 Please include your address, phone number, age and branch number if you are a SWU member.
SREČNE BOŽIČNE PRAZNIKE VSEM MLADIM KI BEREJO ZARJO!
MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL THE YOUNG WHO READ ZARJA!
A big Thank You to Ann Keglovic, Helen Prudic and Frances Wenckus for helping out at the Bake Sale, it was a big success. On Nov., 10th we had a Stanley Party at the National Home. Our Christmas Tour is set for Dec. 29th. Twenty dollars per person is the cost and this includes a dinner. Just a reminder, ladies, that it’s time to pay the 1988 dues. We will have election of officers in December. Happy Holidays to all!
DONNA STUBLJER
NO. 43, MILWAUKEE, WI
Since the weather in October was still nice the attendance was also nice. Our president, Sandy, was absent as she is vacationing in Las Vegas with her son and family and her daughter. The climate is very favorable for Sandy, as she has arthritis so badly.
Hope you will feel much better when you come back. The delegate, Fran Sagadin, (for our branch) gave us a report of the state convention meeting. All final arrangments for the Card Party Sunday were made. Several prizes were donated by our ever-giving donors. We decided to purchase a splasher cloth in traditional Slovenian stitchery, which is stamped and ready for embroidery, framing size 16” x 20”. It is very pretty. If you can’t attend the luncheon at least purchase a ticket; you n. be lucky and win it.
The Christmas luncheon is to be held on Tuesday, December 15, 1987 at 12 noon, at the Packing House on 900 E. Layton Ave. You must call in your reservation as soon as possible. The luncheon completes our 1987 activities.
Lucille Gangel was honored as a 50-year member at St. John’s K.S.K.J. lodge. Congratulations
Lucille, and congratulations to Mr. & Mrs. John and Ann Rebemisek who are the grandparents and to Mr. & Mrs. Louis Rebemisek parents of Jon Rebernisek who was married to Heidi Nuetzi. Heidi is the daughter of Dorothy Nuetzi, Tucson, Arizona. They were married at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in So. Milwaukee.
Jenny Pugel is vacationing in New Mexico visiting her grandchildren. Penny Tratnik is very ill and at St. Luke’s Hospital.
Last but not least, remit your dues if you are in arrears for 1987.
Luncheon — Tuesday Dec. 15th at 12 noon.
R K.
Season's Greetings and best wishes for the New Year
NO. 50, CLEVELAND, OH
Spooks! That’s what we had at our meeting in October. While the meeting was in session our decorations on the front wall behind the officers were gradually falling off in random for no apparent reason, but our officers never blinked and left the pumpkins and black cats do their thing! Halloween, that’s why, and no glue! Over 70 members attended and our very generous bakers brought a variety of goodies, enough to fill our plates aplenty, even Pumpkin Squares and strudel.
We have some ailing members, namely, Mary Hrovat, pacer, Carolyn Budan, Paula Suhay, who got sick in California on a trip to Reno, Ann Kosten of Willoughby, arthritis and surgery, Rose Zaller fell and fractured her wrist, Angela Aversano, foot infection and Frances Drenik of Florida. Hoping you will be up and around soon.
Combined Branches will have a Christmas dinner at the Hofbrau House on Dec. 9th, at 1:00. Make reservations and bring a gift.
Our Branch will have their Christmas party on Dec. 13th, the second
Sunday, Slovene Home on Holmes Ave. as usual in the downstairs hall so no high steps to climb, ladies. Full dinner from soup to dessert and it starts at 1:30 p.m. cooked by Julie Zalar. Come — the more the merrier
—	friends and husbands invited. Make reservations.
Ella Skoda, Mary Cesnik and Ellen Tofant really enjoyed their trip to Europe, Slovenia, Croatia and Italy, etc., over 2000 miles in a van and with a driver who knew each area. After coming home, the Skodas left for New Jersey to “Teensy sit” their grandchildren. Fanny Kaltenbach enjoyed her trip to Toronto but said the prices of everything were high. Sounds like the Japanese economy: $50.00 steaks. We better enjoy our steaks and fruit at home, eh?
Olga Skodlar travelled out west to visit her daughter, Christine Eakins who is a manager of a State Farm Insurance Agency in Seattle, Wash, and then she flew down to Van Nuys, Cal. to visit a grandson. Had nice weather and enjoyed the family reunions.
Christine and Adolph Leskovec travelled in another direction -straight south to Atlanta, where they visited their granddaughter, Linda Myers who is a manager of the cloth-
ing store, Limited, Inc. Linda graduated from Georgia State College and liked Georgia, so got herself a good position there and enjoys the warmer weather, too. Ann and Charlie Tercek flew to Long Island, N.Y. to visit a grandson and great grandson, Jeffrey, who recently moved there and then, for a change in transportation, they took the Amtrak home.
Theresa Clements went to Las Vegas and did beat the one-armed bandits. Don’t go again or they’ll take it from you. Ann Orlikowski and Paula Suhay were in California with Milan Rakonovic, sightseeing and visiting Lake Tahoe and Reno where Paula got sick and had to stay over in the hospital. Recovering nicely, now. Stella Kostick took her son and daughter to Paris, Lourdes, Rome and Poland where she met cousins for the first time. Everyone enjoyed their visits. It’s nice to go and nice to come home safely.
Ann Ryavec had another successful trip for our branch members and friends to New Castle, PA. Visited Airways Luggage factory and the ladies received super buys in luggage, then to Apple Castle, a farmer’s market in Amish country and to Sotus Candy Co. with samples, and also had
STATEMENT OF OWNERSHIP} MANAGEMENT AND CIRCULATION
rjBBFCTTi MAiiiNO aooxuso«
4 31 N. Chicago Avei
1987 Convention Hostess greets you on this 61st Anniversary!
Branch 20, Joliet, Illinois
and extends greetings for a Happy Holiday!
Officers & Members Br. 73, Warrensville Hgts., OH
FORTUNA FUNERAL HOME
5316 Fleet Ave. Cleveland, Ohio 641-0046
a great lunch at the Holiday Inn. After a rainy start, it turned out to be a nice day. The next trip will be “Christmas Lights” on Dec. 15th from 1:30 to 9:30 p.m. Details at the meeting or call Ann.
At this time we would like to congratulate Br. 14 on their 60th Anniversary.
Many of our members attended the-Euclid Octoberfest honoring Mr. & Mrs. Guinta’s 89th and 91st birthdays, given by our Mayor where almost 1200 people attended. Sure met many friends.
Another civic, cultural affair where our ladies always attend are the concerts given by the choruses, Zarja, Jadran and Glasbena Matica, who always have a full house. Everyone enjoys our Slovene songs rendered by them and such beautiful voices! We are fortunate to have so many cultural societies and doings in our vicinity.
Sympathy to Charles Tercek whose brother, Joseph passed away and to Vi Zak whose brother, Herman Radina died and to Fr. Tome and Katie Slaper whose sister, Agnes Tome also passed away. May they rest in peace.
Do hope it was a nice Thanksgiving Day holiday for you and we hope to see you all at our Christmas Party at the Slovene Nat’l Home on Holmes on Dec. 13th where we can all wish each other a Happy New Year. We will not have a January issue of ZARJA. So — Happy Holidays.
New Year Resolutions:
If you owe a debt, pay it; if you owe a grudge, forget it!
Sympathy is never wasted except when you give it to yourself.
Be not simply good, be good for something.
Your reporter,
VERA ŠEBENIK
NO. 52, KITZVILLE, MN
We had a nice turn out again for the meeting. A discussion was held on the upcoming Christmas party.
The meeting was brief and Rose Trombley led the closing prayer. We then commenced with the social of the evening at which time our sisters, hostesses, Mildred Barbatto, Theresa Montcalm and Genevieve Zidarich served a delicious lunch. We played cards with honors going to sisters, Julia Mancuso and Celia Politano in Bridge and to sisters, Rose Trombley, Jenny Crea, Terry Oberstar and Ann
\--------------------------------
I Departed Members
|	1 - Frances Ribich (93)
j	61-yr member
■	Charter of branch
‘	2 - Cecilia Horwath (86)
!	38-yr member
*	10 - Josephine Vergos (86)
|	51-yr member
I 20 - Julia Petrie (79) j	52-yr	member
|	23 - Ann Merrill (83)
|	36-yr	member
i 25 - Josephine Perpar (86)
58-yr member
50 - Agnes Tome (58)
"	17-yr	member
®	73 - Martha Herak (85)
|	47-yr	member
I 77 - Elizabeth Conway (73) j	51 -yr	member
t.	Charter branch
Branch secretary ,	88 - Josephine Butara (68)
“	33-yr	member
®	105 - Johanna Bole (70)
3	21-yr	member
Roberts in Smear. A delightful evening was had by all.
* * *
It is a great pleasure to write and congratulate our treasurer and husband Jenny and Dominic Crea, who observed their 50th Wedding Anniversary at our Community Center. The party with over 200 persons present was catered by their children and relatives. It was held Oct. 10th. We all pray that this anniversary will be a memorable one for Jenny and Dominic and that God will bless you both with many more of life’s pleasures and all that you both hold dear. In short, a Happy Anniversary and many more happy years!
In all the good times there are also sad times. We have to offer Jenny Bunetto our deepest sympathy on the loss of her dearly beloved brother. John Russ, who has departed from our midst. To all his family and friends we all feel the loss of our dearly beloved brother. We hope and pray that this message in some way will sustain the family in the sorrow they feel. God bless you all. May this soul and all the souls of our faithful departed rest in peace. Please remember him in your prayers.
Our meeting was again held at the Community Center building on the first of the month. There was a nice
turn out. Sister Genevieve Zidarich, our Vice-President, was in charge as our president was in Florida. But the weather was great and business of the evening was brief. Discussion of our Christmas party was held. It will be held at the Center with catering done by the women. You are all invited, but please give your name in so the cooks can prepare sufficient food. Anyone who signs up will be responsible for the price of the dinner. Also, if you would like to bring a guest, please do so. We always say the more the merrier. The date is Dec. 2nd, 1987 and the time, 6:30 p.m.
Sister Genevieve Zidarich led us in prayer and we commenced the social of the evening. Our hostesses were sisters, Florence Techar, Mary Techar, Frances Rapovich and Shirley Spinelli. Cards were also played and honors in Bridge went to Mildred Barbatto and Julia Mancuso, Smear, Margaret Kochevar, Gertrude Kochevar, Jenny Crea, Terry Oberstar, Door prize, Mildred Barbatto. A delicious lunch was served. God bless you all and keep you in the best of health. Wishes to all sick members for a speedy recovery. See you on the first Wednesday of the month.
GERTRUDE KOCHEVAR
NO. 54, WARREN, OH
Season’s Greetings to all! Our Christmas Party will be held on Dec. 15th , a Tuesday, at 1:00 p.m. It will be a luncheon at the Elks on Rt. 422 and you will enjoy yourself immensely if you come. We have a program planned and prizes, etc.
We had to cancel our Halloween covered dish party because our dear president, Jo Kassan had major' surgery that day. She is doing well and we all prayed for her to have a good and speedy recovery. I went to see her in the hospital and she set a record on her floor for having so many floral arrangements sent to her. It looked like a florist’s! Josie is a very kind and thoughtful person to all and her friends remembered this.
My father-in-law, Frank Ponikvar, is very ill and has had some rough times these past few weeks. We pray that he doesn’t suffer. His prognosis is very poor.
Merry Christmas to all and a prosperous, healthy New Year. No meeting in January.
JOANNE PONIKVAR
FIVE $1,000 SCHOLARSHIPS FOR HIGH SCHOOL SENIORS IN 1988
The Slovenian Women’s Union takes pleasure in announcing that $1,000 scholarships will be awarded in 1988 to five high school graduating seniors who have been members of the organization at least three years before graduation and plan to attend an accredited college or university in the fall. Awards will be based on scholastic achievement, extracurricular activities, participation in the Slovenian Women’s Union and financial need.
We encourage high school seniors to apply for a scholarship to further their educational opportunities. Please fill out the coupon below and mail to Hermine Dicke, 3717 Council Crest, Madison, WI 53711 for application information.
Sincerely,
Hermine Dicke, chairman S.W.U. Scholarship Committee
NO. 55, GIRARD, OH
At our Oct. meeting we made arrangements for our Christmas Party, it will be Dec. 9 at Alberini’s Rest, on the strip in Niles, Ohio. The time will be 5:30 p.m. We will be calling you to get your reservations; if by some reason we miss you, and you would like to come, please call Mary Selak at her home. Her number is 545-3569 or you can call me at 545-2156
I will be glad to take your reservation. We will have a good time, we will have a gift exchange, play some games and sing to the music of Dolores Depitro playing her Button Box. If anyone needs a ride to the party just give me a call and I’ll see that you get picked up.
The ladies having birthdays in Dec. are Helen Dagate, Gala Jhoss, Rosemary Juvančič and Ivanka Florjančič. Happy Birthday to all.
Here is a nice poem that I read and would like to share with you.
OLD FASHIONED CHRISTMAS Let’s have an old-fashioned Christmas,
Like when Mother and Daddy were young.
A wonderful old-fashioned Christmas,
Filled with laughter and holiday fun.
Let’s cut a tree in the forest,
Bring it home in a sleigh,
And string it with popcorn and candy
To be eaten on Christmas day. We’ll sit by the crackling fireside, Where stockings are hung in a row. And listen to carolers singing Outside in the new fallen snow. Let’s make this Christmas together The very best Christmas yet,
Let’s have an old-fashioned Christmas
One that we’ll never forget.
By Glenna Whiteaker Wilding
MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL!
ROSEMARY GORDON
NO. 56, HIBBING, MN
Winter is here and we had a nice turn out at our meeting. We opened with a prayer.
We are planning visits as usual and entertainment at our nursing homes.
Birthday songs are sung for members. The Jackpot was won by Sophie Garmaker.
We said prayers for social member Katherine Philipich; John Russ-brother of Agnes Barkis, Mr. Putzel whose wife belonged to the SWU and died in July.
Hostesses were Mary Sporar, Katherine Marino and Mary Mar-tinich.
Games were played and prizes were won by Mary Sikich, Dorothy Oberstar and Rose Vukich.
R.M.
		"
	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 1988 high school graduates. Please send me the official application form which must be completed by March 31.
	□ I am a high school senior planning to attend an accredited college or university	
NAME		
STREET		
CITY		STATE & ZIP CODE
Mail to: Hermine Dicke, 3717 Council Crest, Madison, WI 53711 J		
□HIO-MlGHIGflM STATE MEUJS
Here it is winter already, our summer goes by just too swiftly, so now we are back to our meetings.
Our National Convention held in May in Joliet, 111., was most successful, with much accomplished. The newly elected National President is the very capable Victoria “Tory” Bobence of Ely, Minn.
The Combined Branch meetings are very well-attended, usually nine to ten branches are represented.
I	keep in touch and try to visit most of the Cleveland branches - all are doing well. We do have one branch. No. 41, in the Waterloo area that will merge with Br. No.
10	on Holmes Ave, the reason being no officers due to illnesses. At this time I want to “thank” President Justine Girod and Secretary Justine Prhne for the wonderful job they did holding their branch together for as long as they did.
On Nov. 3rd I attended Br. No. 14’s 60th Anniversary dinner. It was a happy occasion. Congratulations to Pres. Marty Koren and member Vera Bajec, and the committee for a very nice affair.
The Annual Ohio-Michigan State Convention took place on Sept. 27th at the Euclid Park Clubhouse in Euclid. In the morning at 10:30, a Mass was celebrated by our own Rev. Father Victor Tome, with 136 ladies at attendance. The choir of ten ladies from five S.W.U. branches did the singing of the favorite Slovenian Hymns. Many compliments were received as there is not too much Slovenian singing heard in some of our churches today. A luncheon immediately followed the Mass and the meeting came to order at 1 p.m.
The guest speaker was Frances “Tanny” Babic who is very well-versed on our Slovenian Culture and Heritage, as this was her topic.
All branch reports were given, I hope that some of the branches were able to hear some very good ideas brought forth from others to benefit their group. The In Memoriam service where our Deceased Members and our founder, Mrs. Marie Prisland were honored was taken care of by the Br. No. 50 Marie Prisland Cadets. Branch No. 32 Honor Guards also participated. Thank you, ladies!
At this time, 12 Dawn (ZARJA) reporters were honored. Keep up the good work ladies! We need you. You are great contributors to this beautifu1 magazine, that is read by so many people throughout the United States by not only women but men also enjoy reading it too. It is a great “asset” to our organization.
We were also honored to have with us the National President, Tory Bobence. In her speech she encouraged all the branches to do their very best and complimented all of the ladies for their participation to make it a successful convention.
The next State Convention will take place on Sept. 25, 1988. Please mark your calendars now. On December 9th, there will be a Combined Branches Christmas Dinner at 1:00 p.m. at the Hofbrau House located on E. 55th St. Everyone is asked to please bring an exchange gift.
Closing for this year, wishing all of you a “Merry, Blessed Christmas and a Healthy, Happy New Year 1988.”
With Love and Prayers,
Ann J. Tercek,
Ohio-Mich. State President
Top: Fr. Vic Tome prepares for Holy Mass — Ann Tercek at the mike. Bottom: Marie Prisland Cadets of Branches 50 and 32 at Memorial Service.
NO. 57, NILES, OH
Here it is October; our meeting was held at the home of our President with
11	members present. Our Treasurer and Secretary were away on a trip but our Recording Secretary gave her report on the last meeting. There was no old business to discuss so we started to make plans for our Christmas Party to be held at Applewood Gardens. Menu and time will be discussed and all members notified.
We played B and later were served a wonderful lunch by our members, Mary Lukz and Elizabeth Havaich. We sang Happy Birthday to our members celebrating in October: Elizabeth Havaich, Mary Visnosky, Catherine Groffins, Mary De Capua, Louise Matejko and Carolyn Fabjance.
We are looking forward to having a new social member join us next month. Come on, girls, come out and be with us for an afternoon of fun with other members.
The weather has been very nice so far and we hope it continues for some time.
Our prayers go out to all our sick members and may they all have speedy recoveries.
Mary Ann Leonard and Viola Logar
were to be hostesses in November.
If you see somebody without a smile, give him yours!
FRANCES STANEC
NO. 73, WARRENSVILLE, OH
HOLIDAY GREETINGS to all of you. The first snowfall of the season (Oct. 21) is upon us as I write this article. The leaves that we have not raked as yet are covered. Time is quickly passing us by—1988 is just around the comer. Enjoy all the fun-filled days ahead.
Our trip to Washington, D.C. is now a thing of the past. What a great time we had. If we repeat it in 1988, we hope that many more will join us from the Cleveland area. This column will not allow me to tell you all that we did, all that we saw. Our bus driver was terrific, our accordian player was great, the weather was beautiful, just nothing went wrong. Thank you to Branch 103 for their hospitality. Chatting with Sen. Lausche was a real treat (at 93 he is still as eloquent as always). A real treat of the entire trip was having in our own little company the pleasure of meeting and being with Lieut. Col. Robert Jevec. Ernestine, you have so much to be proud of and the glint in your eyes said it all. Lt. Jevec
was so helpful on the tours with explanations of the sights we took in and as our Cleveland Southeastern coach pulled away from the Shrine—we all remarked how much we would miss the new friends we made, especially “Bob.” THANK YOU to everyone who participated in the tour!
CONGRATULATIONS to Jeanne Francisco on the birth of her new son, Jeremie Michael, bom on Sept. 28th (already a new member of No. 73). And the Majerciks have a new granddaughter to love-Stephanie Joann weighed in at 71 lbs., 7 ozs. on Oct. 15th (great grandma Walter’s birthday). Daddy is our son, Tom, and she joins a family which includes Mommy Janet and brother “T.J.” who celebrates birthday No. 2 on the 24th. Like Jeremie Michael Francisco, she is a member of No. 73.
CONDOLENCES: Just as we rejoice in the birth of new babies, we are saddened by the deaths of young children. Our deepest sympathies are extended to Frances Gliha and her family on the recent, tragic death of her great grandson in Reston, Virginia. The nine year old (grandson of daughter, Christina Ita) had just returned to his home after spending vacation time in the Bedford area with the Gliha family. Our prayers and thoughts are with all of you. And to
w<//i.
3 Varieties:
Only $12.95 Per pack, loaf
(Each additional order to same shipping address S9.95)
Please send: HJ Variety Package
Lg. 24 oz. □ English Walnut EZI Cream Cheese d Apple Total $___________________________
Payment type: □ Check/Money Order Exp. ____ U	Visa □ MC' □ Discovery
S3
Sips)
Card #
2 Day Delivery Freshness Guaranteed
Signature
Price includes handling, crush-proof packaging and UPS shipping charges. List additional orders on a separate sheet of paper.
Old World Strudel Bread
• Apple • Cream Cheese • Original English Walnut
VARIETY PACKAGE
3 mini 4 oz. loaves of each Tilling Gift wrapping incl.
or
Lg. Povotica
24 oz. of your choice Gift wrapping incl.
Phone & Order DIRECT from Bernice. OR MAIL your order.
YOUR NAME:_________________________________________________________
Street ____________________________________________________________
City/State/Zip_____________________________________________________
Phone (	)	________________________________________
SHIP TO: ______________________________________________________
Street   __________________________________________________________
City/State/Zip_____________________________________________________
Gift Message ______________________________________________________
Mail order to:
Bernice’s Old World Bakery 3744 N. 67 • Kansas City, KS 66104 • KS Residents phone: 913/299-8283 * Call Toll Free l-800-BERNICE (1-800-237-6423)
Senator Frank J. Lausche, our Zveza friend, chatted Lt. Col. Robert Jevec and his mom, Ernestine Jevec, one with Evelyn Majercik during the SWU group visit to DC	of the Cleveland tourists, had a nice reunion, too.
the family of Martha Herak, No. 73 member for forty-seven years, we likewise extend our sympathy and our prayers. God keep all of you in his care.
GET WELL WISHES: To Vera Kozak and Betty Bay us. We hope that you are feeling better now. With the onset of colder weather, keep warm and, if you are not feeling well, please, please get medical attention. We love all of you. We worry about you. We concern ourselves with each and everyone of you.
ANNIVERSARY GREETINGS: To Mr. and Mrs. Frank Cazin who marked No. 47 up this year. (Your grandson, Joey, was a real special addition to our D.C. trip).
“Hello” to everyone was relayed from Nettie Kainec who was in town to attend her granddaughter’s wedding. Wonder if she left town before the snow fell? Nettie resides in Florida.
I failed to mention in my last article that our summer cookout was again a big success, over forty people in attendance, food was terrific. Joe Fortuna brightened the evening with his accor-dian music, yours truly tried to keep up with his nimble fingers. It was nice to see all the members who cannot attend meetings during the year. We hope you will include our meetings on the list of your 1988 resolutions of things to do- along with paying your dues.
If you like to see your name in print, please call Louise Epley (662-5310) or myself (439-1825). We are always looking for news.
See you in 1988. A VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS AND THE VERY BEST OF NEW YEARS to all of you.
EVELYN A. MAJERCIK
NO. 79, ENUMCLAW, WA
Good attendance was present at our meeting of October 11th at the home of Mary Bratovich in Auburn. Slides of the National Convention were shown by Mike Bratovich and brought back lots of good memories and fun times.
All members are asked to reserve December 6th for our annual Christmas party and all are urged to bring friends to this party. Our secretary, Anna Mae Anderson, will be mailing out flyers with all the needed information ahead of time. A potluck will be served, music and lots of good times for everyone. The Osceola Clubhouse has been reserved for the event. Get those calendars marked!!
What a different weather year for our Northwest! Where you usually “rust” not tan, we have had one sprinkle of rain since the 4th of July
-	what a summer! The larger cities are experiencing some water problems, such as no lawn sprinkling, no private car washing, very unusual for us.
MARY BRATOVICH, Reporter
NO. 89, OGLESBY, IL
The October meeting of Branch 89 was held on the 12th at Dickinson House with Rose Ann Prey, president, opening the meeting with prayers offered for all sick members and the deceased members of Br. 89. A pledge of allegiance was also recited. Minutes of the August and September meetings were read and accepted.
Roll call was taken with two officers absent. Helen Komater gave her Sunshine Report with October birthdays being celebrated. Cards were sent to Rev. Denis Mackessy, our spiritual advisor, Rose Ann Prey, President, Emma Folty, Treasurer and yours truly Eunice Komater, secretary and reporter.
Frances Gorišek and Anna Krancic were sent get well cards. Anna Krancic is confined in Care Inn Nursing Home. Frances, our chaplain, is on the sick list and is at home. Thank you notes were read from Marilyn Ar-gubright and her daughter Lynn for the plants sent them in appreciation from the branch for showing us the slides of Jugoslavia.
Also read was a “thank you” from Jo Schmidt who manages Starved Rock Lodge. She was so pleased to have us at the Lodge. The food was excellent as was the capable way the waitress served us. A thank you wasn’t necessary, Jo. We are the ones who should thank you for your gracious hospitality. You and your staff should be commended.
Angie Nico was our “You Are Special” for November. Report was found in ZARJA. Congratulations, Angie, it is well deserved and our best wishes and prayers go with you. Angie also gave a report on the state convention.
Our congratulations go to Sharon Naudziunis, our new Regional President. A congratulation card was also sent to Rev. Bernard Horzen for being selected as one of the nine top teachers in Illinois. We are so proud of you!
Father Horzen held Slovenian Litany services at Resurrection Church, La Salle, II. on Oct. 18th. The October committee which had
charge of the luncheon was Betty Hamilton and Katherine Golick. A Halloween theme was used as the centerpiece. It was very nice, girls. Frances Gorišek, one of the committee members absent, really missed a lovely evening. Hurry back, Frances. A round of “Happy Birthday” was sung for the October birthday celebrants.
Our November 9th meeting had Ann Batty, Rose Kellett and Pam Skoporc as our committee. Closing prayers were led by Rose Ann Prey and a social time followed.
Respectfully submitted,
EUNICE KOMATER
NO. 95, SO. CHICAGO, IL
Highlight of December will be our Christmas Party, which will be held at the Golden Shell restaurant on December 9th. Cocktails at 6, Dinner at 7p.m. Grab bag for whoever wishes to participate.
The October meeting was hostessed by Mary A. Perkovich, Millie James, Charlotte Fryza, Lottie Brkljacic and Marie Maras.
In preparation for the election of new officers, the nominating committee was selected. They are Dolores Hennelly, Millie James and Mary Nuzda.
Get well wishes to Marge Simunich who was hospitalized for a few days.
Millie Poropat is again reminding jnembers to pay dues, so that she can close the books for 1987. What am I saying? Where did 1987 go?
MARIE MARAS, Reporter
NO. 100, FONTANA, CA
Greetings from Fontana, CA. After a busy summer for most of our members we met at Rosemary Mlaker’s lovely home. She was recently appointed Western States Regional Pres. We are very proud of her. Elvie Blasich so graciously demonstrated her culinary skills by making a delectable strudel. It looked so easy when she did it and so flaky. Will give it a try when I get the nerve.
After a short meeting, Rosemary and Ann Kopel, our pres. gave a report and showed us a video of the Joliet Convention and the impressive mass. A job well done, ladies.
Now down to business for us. We decided to have a few fund raisers. The first was a polochenki brunch on Nov. 8th. Our chef was Frank Vid-egar, husband of Mary Lou, the vice pres, of our branch. We also featured a cake walk and raffle of a Thanksgiving basket of goodies. A few of our members have been ill and get well wishes were sent. We wish speedy recovery to Elizabeth Morinovich and Pauline Bade and her husband. Marie Ameson has moved to the Slovene Rest Home. Several of our ladies were fortunate enough to see the Pope when he was in CA. They gave a graphic report. All reported it was a very rewarding experience.
Respectfully submitted.
HENRIETTA BLEDSOE
■ MIMIIIIIIIttMMMIIHIIIIMMIMMMMHIIIIIHIIMHHIIHIMIMIHIIIIMIIttMIIMUl
S.W.U. INVITES YOU
Membership open to all members of the family.
Write to:	SWU Home Office
431 N. Chicago St., Joliet, IL 60432
NO. 102, WILLARD, WI
Recent Activities of Branch 102!
Mary Staut gave a detailed account of the Convention at our Oct. 11th meeting. Of special interest was the information that Branches 28 and 105 were combined with our Br. 102 here in order to provide one delegate to the convention.
The Annual Strudel Day was a success with a variety of strudels being donated.
Ann Boh won the door prize that was donated by Agnes Leser.
Thursday, Oct. 29th, was the date of our annual dinner held at the County Park Inn at Greenwood with 24 members and guests present. One long table accommodated all and the conversation was as good as the food. Mary Staut attended as our Mother of the Year.
Our Christmas Party will be on Dec. 6th at the Parish Center Hall at 12:30 p.m. starting with a pot-luck meal, followed by a gift-exchange, games and a social hours.
Also worthy of note is that the Slovenian costume owned by Vitko Staut’s mother, Marica Staut, has been donated to the Heritage Museum of the S.W.U. at Joliet.
Respectfully submitted,
BETTY SCHARENBROCK, Secretary
NO. 105, DETROIT, MI
As I write this - it is November -and 75° outside. Lovely sunny Indian Summer day...Michigan’s best.
The Holy Father was in our city in September. We went to see him in the enclave of Hamtramck - a unique little town entirely surrounded by Detroit and populated mostly by Poles, Yugoslavs and Arabs. It is just about a mile from our home - so we simply walked there that Saturday morning. Amidst the crowd, my home-made banner proclaiming: “Thank God I’m Slovenian” caught the attention of the media and I was interviewed on Lansing, Michigan video. This may see print during the holidays -so -
Vesele Božične Praznike ter Srečno Novo Leto!
It is hard to think of the Christmas holidays being so near.
Nevertheless — Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all!
MARIE BOMBACH DYE
DR. M. JOSEPH CHRZANOWSKI DR. MARTIN H. TELICH
Family Dentistry
782 East 185th St.,
Cleveland, Ohio 44119 692-2010
6402 St. Clair Ave., Cleveland, Ohio 44103 431-4114
LOUIS SLAPNIK & SON FLORIST
Flowers for all occasions Cards & Gifts, city and suburb deliveries
6102 St. Clair Ave.	Cleveland,	OH	44103
431-1126 and 391-2134
ZAK FUNERAL HOME (Zakrajšek)
Zachary A. Zak - Licensed
4	Generations of Service, Since 1890	361-3112	361-3113
SHELIGA DRUG INC.
6025St. Clair Ave., Cleveland, OH 44103 (216) 431-1035
Serving our neighborhoods’ daily needs
Frank Sterle Country House
Slovenska kuhinja Slovenian Home Cooking 1401 E. 55th St. Cleveland, Ohio 44103 For Reservations: 881-4181
Anzlovar Department Store 6214 St. Clair Ave., Cleveland, Ohio
Korporacija BARAGOV DOM
6304 St. Clair Ave.
Cleveland, Ohio 44103 \  _____________________________________________
TIVOLI ENTERPRISES
6419 St. Clair Ave., Cleveland, OH 44103 (216) 431-5296 “Imports from Slovenia”
ATLAS SLOVENIJE - $38.00, (p & h $2.50)
Our thanks to Cirila Kermavner and Alouise Epley for securing the Cleveland Christmas ads ^___________________________________________ J
(3izitbna\!	Mary	Muller,	National	Auditor
zaz!	14523 South Union Avenue
^	Riverdale, Illinois 60627
ŽALOSTNA MATI BOŽJA
Frank, Ohio - Vsako jesen roma na stotine Slovencev k Žalostni Materi Božji. Ponavadi je to celodnevno romanje. Zjutraj avtobusi poberejo romarje na že v naprej določenih krajih. Po približno enourni vožnji se prispe tja v Bellevue - Frank, OH.
Pred mašo se romarji razkropijo po širnemu, lahko bi imenovali romarskemu parku. Oni stopijo najprej v cerkvico da se priporočijo Žalostni Materi Božji. Ti potožijo svoje gorje in težave in seveda tudi prižgejo lučke Njej v čast. Drugi se odpravijo v trgovino, da nakupijo nekaj spominčkov za svoje drage, da bi jih varvali pred vsemi nadlogami. Spominčki so popoldne blagoslovljeni in zato imaju čudežno moč.
Čas je tu, že zvoni poldne in pozvanja k maši. Mašo sedaj zadnja leta daruje prezvišeni škof Edward Pevec, z njim pa somašujeta ponavadi p. Fortunat Zorman in gospod Pavel Krajnik iz Lorain, OH. P. Fortunat pride za to priliko prav iz ameriških Brezij-Lemonta.
Po maši se vsak malo pokrepča - telesno. Imajo lepo jedilnico, da vam lahko postrežejo v nji.
Popoldne pa se skozi park kjer je križev pot vije procesija in se moli peti križev pot. Vsako leto se tudi spomnijo vseh žrtev vojne in komunizma, ki so dali svoja mlada življenja za dobrobit življenja nas vseh. Ali znamo upoštevati njih žrtve?
Vsi prenovljeni in napolnjeni z milostjo božjo se vrača ljudstvo domov, v trdnemu sklepu, da se drugo leto zopet vrne, ako je tako božja volja.
Ana Gaber, Št. 2:
MARIJI POMAGAJ NA BREZJAH
Najlepši del tega sveta so naši dedje naselili, molili radi so Boga,
O Marija naša mati, tvoji smo in tvoji hočemo ostati.
Ko majhen narod sred planin, smo v vojnih vihrah krvaveli, bila si upanje vseh bolečin, v zahvalo smo ti vedno peli.
O Marija, naša mati, tvoji smo in tvoji hočemo ostati.
Na Brezjah dom ti lep stoji, zavetje vsi lahko dobimo, podoba tvoja vedno govori: pridite, se pogovorimo.
O	Marija, naša mati, tvoji smo in tvoji hočemo ostati.
Ko daleč proč od tod živim, se spomnim nate, ljuba mati, v zavetje tvoje pohitim, te prosim, daj mi pomagati.
O	Marija, naša mati, tvoji smo in tvoji hočemo ostati.
Prišli smo k tebi, mladi rod, želimo tvoji biti, sveta mati, ljubezni svoje daj na pot, da vero utrdimo med brati.
O	Marija, naša mati, tvoji smo in tvoji hočemo ostati.
Izidor Rejc,
Ljubljana, 30. aprila 1984
Anton Dermota
Su&oo //v e/v oečer
To je naslov knjige, ki jo je napisal slovenski umetnik - pevec tenorist, kako je s svojim talentom za glazbo in z občudovanja vredno voljo dosegel častno mesto v operni hiši na Dunaju. Rojen je bil leta 1910 od preprostih staršev - žebljarjev v Kropi na Gorenjskem. V knjigi pripoveduje o svoji revni težki mladosti
-	kljub vsemu lepi - o svoji delavni verni družini, o dobrotnikih, ki so mu odprli pot v visoki svet petja in glazbe. Naša Zarja bo priobčila nekaj odlomkov iz te knjige, ki nam prikazujejo splošno družabno in versko življenje tiste dobe.
Čas okrog Božiča
Tedaj smo živeli s cerkvenim letom. Božič, velika noč, binkošti — “sveti časi" — to so bili pač nepozabni vrhunci leta. S tem se je družilo slovesno zvonjenje, pritrkavanje, kar je popolnoma svojevrsten in za našo deželo značilen običaj, ki ga sedaj po dolgem času spet gojijo. To je namreč ritmično-harmonično pozvanjanje vseh zvonov, ki jih ne poganjajo z vrvjo, temveč udarjajo nanje s kembljem v roki in sicer v natančnem, večkrat zelo zapletenem, toda prosto improviziranem zaporedju. Ali pa zvonijo z največjim zvonom s potegovanjem kot navadno, med njegovimi počasnimi, mogočnimi glasovi pa se olgašajo drugi pozvan-jači z ritmičnimi udarci kembljev. Ker ležijo vasi precej blizu druga drugi in se pri ugodnem vetru sliši tudi sosednje pozvanjanje, so poskušali zvonove v bližnjih vaseh med seboj skladno uglasiti. Ob posebnih priložnostih so potem zvonili vsi naenkrat, to pa je doživetje s silnim, mogočnim vtisom.
Božični praznik se je začel z velikim pospravljanjem in čiščenjem in s peko prazničnih potic. Že vonj po poticah je bil del praznovanja. Za božič smo smeli obleči najboljšo obleko. Kdor je imel srečo in je bil na vrsti, je dobil tudi kaj novega. Sicer pa ni bilo nobenih daril. Za obdarovanje je veljala boljša jed, predvsem pa praznično razpoloženje polno pričakovanja. Delo je počivalo. Oče in mati sta bila doma in končno vendar le za nas otroke. To je bilo najlepše.
Na sveti večer je oče na čelu vse družine z glasno molitvijo nosil po hiši kadilo. Preden smo sedli za mizo k skromni večerji, smo prižgali luči pri jaslicah. Božičnega drevesca tedaj še nismo poznali, to ni bilo v navadi. Pojem božiča so bile jaslice, ki smo jih vsako leto na novo postavili. Sicer so bile z roko umetno izrezljane osebe vedno iste, toda grič, po katerem so pastirci s številnimi ovcami romali k hlevčku, smo vsakič posebej zgradili. To je bila očetova naloga, pri tem pa smo mu smeli pomagati in mu znositi potrebno gradivo: les, lepenko, predvsem pa veliko mahu za betlehemske pašnike in travnike. Iskat smo ga šli v
gozd in večkrat ga je bilo treba izkopati izpod debele snežne odeje, pa tudi to je sodilo k radostim božičnih priprav.
Po večerji smo peli božične pesmi, potem smo šli “gledat jaslice”. Ne da bi se napovedali, smo pri sosedovih potrkali in, kakor se spodobi, občudovali njihove jaslice. Tako smo obhodili ves kraj, ki je bil ta večer kakor ena družina. Nato smo živahno razpravljali, katere jaslice so najlepše, dokler nas niso farni zvonovi poklicali k polnočnici. Z vseh strani, večkrat iz zelo oddaljenih zaselkov, so prihajali verniki s baklami v rokah slavit rojstvo Gospodovo. Prelepo je bilo videti, kako so luči po zasneženih bregovin omahovale, se majale navzdol in se zgrinjale k farni cerkvi, ki je bila kmalu natlačeno polna.
Kakor je naš kraj majhen in reven, ima vendarle dve cerkvi. Poleg farne, posvečene sv. Lenartu, zavetniku ujtenikov in živali — nastanek te cerkve sega še v gotski čas, a je od gotskega sloga zaradi pogostnih prezidov komaj še kaj opaziti — je v kraju še podružnica, baročna Marijina romarska cerkev, ki stoji na griču nad Kropo. V mežnariji tam zraven, cerkovnikovi hiši, je družina Dermota dvakrat dobila stanovanje. Oče je opravljal službo cerkovnika in skrbel za vse potrebno v cerkvi, mati pa je snažila in krasila s cvetlicami oltarje.
Marijina cerkev je imela — drugače kot farna z mehaničnimi orglami — pnevmatično glasbilo, na katerem sem si pozneje v počitnicah kot gojenec orglarske šole v Ljubljani prvič upal preizkusiti se v igri na orglah. Oče, včasih pa tudi kateri od bratov, so gonili meh. Oče je to rad storil in ne brez ponosa nad bodočim organistom. Če pa sem se predolgo zasanjal v igri ali če sem povlekel preveč registrov naenkrat, se je lahko zgodilo, da je utrujen prenehal z mehom in naenkrat mu je pošla vsa sapa. Nato je stopil k meni in kratko pa odločno velel: “Dovolj za danes!”
Oba starša sta v mežnariji tudi umrla. Če obiščem domači kraj, je ta stara hiša pri Marijini cerkvi moj najljubši cilj. Stari spomini se zbudijo in pomembno je zame, da so to le lepi spomini.
Toda vrnimo se k božičnemu času mojih otroških let. Na dan starega leta se je začelo novoletno in trikraljevsko koledovanje, trajalo pa je do 7. januarja. Gašper, Miha in Boltežar so za praznike hodili po Kropi, v delavnikih pa tudi po sosednjih vaseh od hiše do hiše. Trikraljevska koleda je bila pravica ministrantov, tudi jaz sem bil med njimi. Tedaj smo nosili ministrantske obleke, na glavo smo si posadili pisane papirnate krone, na njih so bili nalepljeni božični prizori iz prozornega barvastega papirja. Znotraj je to krasoto osvetljevala goreča sveča. Ni nas motilo, da nam je vroč vosek kapljal na glavo. Zvečer pa se je mati trudila, da nas je očistila.
V	znak kraljevske časti smo si opasali krive sablje, nemara še kot spomin na turške čase. Zamorca je predstavljal vselej najmlajši izmed nas. Trpeti je moral, da smo mu obraz namazali s sajami. Z leti je potem napredoval v Miho in nazadnje v Gašperja, ki je bil od vseh treh najbolj imeniten, saj je prinašal Jezusu zlata. Kralje je spremljal nekakšen zaščitnik, eden od dosluženih ministrantov, ki je sprejemal tudi darove v varstvo. Ko so se na trkanje odprla hišna vrata, se je zvrstil tak prizor: najprej smo skupaj zapeli pesem, nato se je vsak predstavil s kakim izrekom, ki je bil tako sestavljen, kakor da bi se trije kralji pravkar po naključju srečali.
Na vprašanje "od kod prihajajo vaša kraljevska visokost" je prvi odgovoril: “Tam sem doma, kjer sonce zjutraj gori gre, in Gašper mi pravijo."
Nazadnje tretji: “Tam se doma, kjer sonce po božji milosti zahaja, in pravijo mi Boltežar,”
Ta prizor je nedvomno ostanek stare ljudske igre, ki je pozabljena. Na koncu smo uprizorili še prepir med nami tremi. Ta se je sklenil tako, da so sveti trije kralji — vročekrvni, kakor smo si predstavljali Jut-rovce, in prav nič več sveti — potegnili svoje krive sablje. Pogled na zvezdo nad nami pa nas je kamlu pomiril in četrti spremljevalec je končno lahko vzel darilo, ki je bilo v Kropi le skromen novčič. Po praznikih so trije kralji odromali h kmetom v bližnjo okolico, kjer so včasih zapeli tudi kako manj pobožno pesmico, da bi poslušalce zabavali in da bi ti bili bolj darežljivi. Tam so nas obdarovali ponajveč s suhim sadjem, s pecivom, s sivnjskimi uhlji, krvavicami in kar je še takih dobrot. Zvečer smo se vrnili domov z bogatim plenom, ki smo ga strogo in pravično med seboj raz-
dplili
Rekel sem, da je bila trikraljevska koleda pravica ministrantov. Ne glede na to pa so se združile številne “divje" skupine otrok, ki so na svoje pest hodili od hiše do hiše. Tudi marsikateri starec je porabil priložnost in odšel na pot, da bi napolnil svojo malho. Zato je pred hišami dostikrat v gneči nastalo prerivanje z majhnimi bitkami, tako da je radodarni gospodar nazadnje le za hip odprl vrata in odkimal: “Danes ne bo nič” Vse ima končno svoje meje.
(Iz knjige “Tisoč in en večer”, Mohorjeva, Celje 1986)
“Povila gaje v plenice in položili v jasli...”
Na poti v Bethlehem
Jožef in Marija sta se napotila proti Jeruzalemu. Zelo dolgi so se morali zdeti obema štirje dnevi v najhujši deževni dobi, posebno še zaradi stanja, v katerem se je nahajala Marija.
Jeruzalem ni od Betlehema oddaljen dosti več kot deset kilometrov. Za hip sta mogla romarja opazovati obe mesti z vrha griča, ki jo loči. Za njunim hrbtom je razkazovalo glavno mesto čudovitost svojih novih zgradb: templja s svojo zlato streho, ki je žarela pod sončnimi žarki, dolgih stebrišč ob straneh in dalje razkošne Herodove palače, obdane od visokih stolpov.
Pred njima so pa čepele ponižne betlehemske bajte vzdolž vzpetine, ki se začenja v osrednjem masivu judovskih gora. Zrak je tukaj tako prosojen, da se človeku zdi, da se bo mogle z rokami dotakniti Betlehema; vendar je treba, preden dospeš v Betlehem, preiti dve globoki soteski. Bila je zima. A zima v teh krajih ne pomeni smrti narave. Sneg, kadar pade
—	kar je redko, obleži zelo malo časa. Vendar občuti revno ljudstvo v svojih kočah mraz zimskih noči zelo v živo.
V	Betlehemu pa zanju ni bilo prenočišča.
V	votlini
Tedaj sta odkrila eno tistih naravnih votlin, tako pogostih v terenu Judeje, v katerih iščejo domačini zavetje za svojo živino in za sebe. Vsa oprema v votlini so bile prenosne jasli, ki so sprejemale krmo. Ko sta bila tam, se ji je doplnil čas poroda. In porodila je sina prvorojenca, ga povila v plenice in položila v jasli.
Pastirji na poljani so zaslišali pesem angelov: “Slava Bogu na višavah in mir ljudem na zemlji, ki so Bogu po volji..."	43
BOŽIČNO IN NOVOLETNO VOŠČILO
Vsem bralkam slovenskega kotička v Zarji - lepoto in blagoslov božičnih praznikov ter mir in uspehov
polno novo leto 1988 želi.
Uredništvo
ŠT. 13, SAN FRANCISCO, CA
POPRAVEK Mojega dopisa v Zarji za mesec november 1. 1987
Podpisana sem nehote naredila napako v zadnjem novemberskem dopisu, ko sem imenovala Kate Lampe namesto Agnes Lampe, katere mož je bil Victor Lampe, ki smo ga klicali slovenski župan. Še v svoji kopiji sem napisala Agnes, v poročilu pa Kate. Vidite, kaj so stara leta, ko spomin ni več tako svež. Kate Lampe in njen mož sta oba še živa in jaz nisem imela namena narediti ju za pokojna. Oprostite!”
POLDICA PODGORNIK
Vreme imamo lepo sončno in kristalno čisto. Le malo dežja smo imeli; upam pa da bomo imeli več dežja, ki ga kmet tako potrebuje.
V	Jugoslaviji se godijo čudne reči, posebno pri vladi. Mislim, ko bi imeli več Slovencev v Beogradu, bi ne imeli take krize, ker Slovenec je najbolj izobražen v Jugoslaviji, je varčen, preprost, pošten in razviden človek v vseh panogah življenja. Bodočnost bo seveda pokazala, kaj se bo razvilo iz te strašne draginje, ki se množi iz dneva v dan. Saj je po vsem svetu kaj narobe. Tudi tu v United States. Vendar tu se človek sprosti od hladne despotične Evrope. Tu vsak dobi človeško dostojanstvo, bodisi da je bel, črn, rdeč ali rumen.
Tončka Simčič piše v Prosveti dopis od Franka Plut. Je tenorist in predsednik direktorija v slovenskem narodnem domu v Clevelandu. Frank Plut je doma v Suhorju pri Metliki. Odličen Belokranjec s pojočo slovensko dušo, ki zasluži trajen spomin od nas, vseh Belokrancev.
Čestitke talentirani pianistiki, novi Miss S.N.P.G. iz Johnstowna, Ohio. Miss (gospodična) Gretchen Buday je izvrstna glasbena umetnica, ki vse očara s
svojo umetnostjo in lepoto. Tako se je izrazil predsednik Edward R. Hribar z imenom “blesteča zvezda." V Jugoslaviji kličejo 80 letnega Antona Ingoliča “naš najplodnejši pisatelj vseh časov" (Dolenjski list). Naša mlada pevka Diana Fir je dobila v konservatoriju v San Franciscu štipendijo ali Scholarship za petje. Častitke njej od vseh članov zbora, ker še vedno poje v slovenski cerkvi in tudi od vseh tukajšnjih Slovencev. Vsi smo ponosni nanjo. F. Viktor Tomc, župnik pri Mariji Vnebovzeti v Clevelandu je stopil v pokoj. Pred več leti, ko je bil tukaj, so ga tudi naši ljudje vzljubili. Želimo mu srečno in zdravo bodočnost!
Končno vsem sosestram -posebno bolnim-Bog z vami!
POLDICA PODGORNIK, poročevalka
ŠT. 25, CLEVELAND, OH
Pripravimo se kot otroci na prihod novorojenega, Jezuščka... Z zvezdami v naših očeh, z upanjem v naših srcih, in v vsaki želji naj odseva ljubezen do brata, sestre.
Blagoslovljene božične pr \z-nike in milosti polno novo leto želim vsem!
CIRILA KERMAVNER
ŠT. 68, F AIRPORT HRB, OH
Nastopili smo v jesensko dobo, zadnje četrletje tega leta. Bliža se nam zima, ptički se zbirajo po drevju, da bodo odleteli v tople kraje in vam prinesli pozdrave iz Ohia, vsem tistim, katere ste po južnih krajih.
Danes na 24. oktobra ob pol noči bomo ure premaknili za eno uro nazaj, tako je zakon tukaj v Ohaio. To je menda dobro za športnike. Letošnje leto smo imeli čudno vreme, julija in še do polovice avgusta strašna vročina in ki je dolgo držalo do 90 stopinj Fer., in tudi več. Druga leta smo
Miklavževa
Ob dveh ponoč, potrkal je sv. Miklavž na okence.
En koš daril prinesel je, za me, za sestrice.
Od zadaj žvenketaje, peklenšček čakal je na hudobneže poredne, jih v pekel odvedel je.
Oj ljubi, ljubi sv. Miklavž!
Zahvalim se za vse, za darila, ki si dal za me, za otroke vse.
Molili Tebi bomo še, od danes v naprej, da sv. Miklavž prihajal bo, med nas in verne vse.
Jana Bevec
dosti zunaj po vrtovih počivali v senci, letos pa prav nič. Po gredah je zalenjava kar dobro uspevala. Vsakdanja velika jutranja rosa, ki je bila res potrebna, je v noči vse lepo osvežila. Tako, da na naši gredi je bil res blagoslov od zgoraj, da je krompir odlično obrodil; kar dosti ga je bilo in lepo videti, ko sva ga z možem skopala. Po en funt je komad tehtal in dosti takih je bilo kot štruce.
To pretečeno poletje je pa res nezarensko hitro šlo skozi. Menda zato, ker smo imeli vsake vrste novice. Prvo žalostno in nepričakovano, kot sem že v septem-berski Zarji omenila, o smrti moje sestrične Pepce v Floridi. Potem pa veselo novico o svidenju naših nečakinj, ki sta prišli na obisk iz Ljubljane; Marta Pogačnik iz Dolenje vasi pri Cerknici, pa Marica Urbas. Po 43 letih sta se prvič srečali z stricom Jožetom (mojim možem) in stricem Ruditom tukaj v naši novi Domovini. Tako sva imela dosti zabave in družbe. Povedale sta njih življenje, o njih delovanju, kako imajo življenje tam urejeno. In tukaj sta pa tudi dosti lepega in zanimivega videli. Zelo sta obe uživali po trgovinah, koliko izbere.
Kaj pa še po restavrantih kakor je Ponderosa, ko včasih navrže sladoled-lce Cream-; to je nekaj odličnega, in kolikor ga hočeš. Zelo se jima je dopadlo, ko sta povsod videli veliko Slovencev. Ko sta se vrnile nazaj v Domovino, je bila naša hiša kar prazna. Zdi se mi, kot, da bi bile vse to resnične sanje. Po telefonu so se nama takoj oglasile, ko sta prišli domov, srečno k svojim družinam. Tudi tam imajo telefon in še vse drugo, kot tukaj v Ameriki; dobro življenje imajo. Tudi tisti, ki gredo tja na obisk, ne vidijo nobene revščine. Ravno nasprotno je. Kakšna sprememba v zadnjih 40 tih letih. Prav na višku je tam sedaj življenski standart. Če se kake stvari ne dobi v trgovinah doma, gredo pa v Trst ali v Avstrijo. Avtomobilov so povsod polne ceste, čeprav je bencin drag. Draginja pa velika. Pa stari milijoni, ki jih po nepotrebnem izgovarjajo, tisto draginjo povzdignejo, saj vendar imajo že dolga leta nove dinarje.
Ko sem bila na zadnji oktoberski seji, je Fanny Ulle pravila o potresu, ker njena hčerka živi z družino v Kaliforniji. Kakšen strah so imeli prav tam, kjer hčerka živi. Pri hiši jim je več škode naredilo, po zidovju razpoke, in še drugo škodo. Pa sem ravno čitala v angleški knjigi, da bo čas prišel, da bo človek lahko kontroliral z vodo potres pa pravi za male potrese. V knjigi je zdraven slika, da bodo "pumpali” v tisto globino, kjer bodo aparati pokazali nevarnost za potres. No, pa pustimo to za študirane ljudi.
V	pretečenem poletju nisem imela dosti prilike se udeležiti sestankov, radi obiskov iz Slovenije.
V	septembru je praznovala 83 rojstni dan Frances Pillar. Lepo so jo počastile, ji napravile Party; so-sestre skupno z dobrosrčno njeno snaho (Daughter-in-law) Velmo Zalar. Mrs. Fany Skrabec je tudi še v privatnem oskrbovališču, hčerka Fanny Ulle jo dnevno obiskuje in še tudi dve mlajši hčerki.
Sedaj pa še o konvenciji v Clevelandu, Imela sem tudi jaz priliko se udeležiti. Mrs. Josephine Gornik mi je dala priliko in me pobrala. Iskrena Ti hvala. Bili sta še iz naše podružnice, Kristina Ludvik in predsednica Rozi Bradač. Res je bilo zanimivo in hvale vredno se tega dogodka udeležiti. Začetek z
sveto mašo: častiti Rev. Father Tomc je maševal. Lepo vse po redu, kot v cerkvi je potekalo. Father Tomc je bil zelo dobre volje in med drugim povedal, da mu je nekdo rekel, "da sedaj si pa res blažen med ženami”.
Po končani maši je Mrs. Frances Babic, imela lep pomemben ovor, kaj nam pomeni naše Slov, enska Zveza. 150 članic je bilo udeleženih. Spegovorila je tudi na kratko podpredsednica Mrs. Cirila Kermavner, o skupnosti in složnosti te organizacije.
Mrs. Ann Trček je predlagala, da bi njeno vlogo prevzela katera druga, radi njenega bolehnega moža, ker ona je itak že preveč zaposlena z drugimi dolžnostmi. Na žalost ni uspela; z solznimi očmi je pristala še za naprej. Malo sem površno opisala po mojem spominu.
Ves spored tega dogodka so krasile v ospredju lepe mladostne gospe — kadetke — v uniformah. Le žal, da nisem imela seboj fotoaparata, da bi posnela nekaj slik. No pa mogoče bom imela še katerikrat priliko se tega udeležiti.
Sedaj pa še o našem poletnim balincanju. Tudi letos je bilo priglašenih 16 skupin. Lepo, v veselem razpoloženju vse poletje: štiri dni v tednu, ponedeljek, torek, sreda in četrtek in to ob večernih, urah začetek ob pol osmih pri našem Slov. klubu v Fairportu, le parkrat je dež ponagajal. Jaz to poletje se nisem dosti udeleževala, smo imeli kar druga pota in obiske. To leto je pa zopet zmagala italijanska grupa Tonita Bartony. Zaklučili smo z banketom, odlično, zunaj z pečenim Steakom, ženske so pa tudi napekle vsake vrste peciva.
Še eno novico bom prav na tiho povedala, da sva z možem praznovala 50-to obletnico poroke in to na nedeljo 30. avgusta. Te so bolj redke, to pa moram zato povedati, ker so nakateri mislili, da je bilo to že lansko leto. Pravijo, da o sebi se ne piše, pa včasih je potrebno.
Še to, da smo v letošnjem avgustu na klubovih prostorih napravili razprodajo rabljenih stvari. To se pravi — Yard Sale — in da se je kar dobro obeneslo, se je kar preko tisočaka nabralo. To bo velika pomoč, da bodo sedaj lahko tlakovali prostor za parkiranje autov, ker to je bilo zelo potrebno.
Nove članice so cvetlice...
na vrtu nas nove glavne predsednice!
IIIIIIIIIIIIMIIIMIMIIIIIIIIIIIIHIIIIIHIIIIHHIIHMIIIMMIMIHHHIIIHIIIHIIIIHH
V	spomin naj bo priljubljena pesmica S. Avsenika:
Bila sva mlada oba, ko preko mosta sva šla: maj je dehtel in mak je cvetel, jaz pa od sreče bi ves svet objel.
Se še spominjaš nazaj, daleč je tisti maj, so leta minula, vsa siva sva že, jaz pa spominjam se še.
Ko v mraku zrem v vodo, vidim leta, da teko, mladost je za nama, že bliža se noč:
Bila sva mlada oba, ko preko mosta sva šla, zdaj pa drhteče mi stiskaš roko vendar je obema lepo.
Ta čas, ko boste to čitale bo že Božič v bližini.
Želim glavnemu uradu dosti uspeha, posebno urednici našega mesečnika ZARJA gospej Corini Leskovar.
Naj Vam bo božično razpoloženje, kot vesela božična pesem, ki naj Vas spremlja skozi vse leto.
Prihodnja ZARJA bo izšla v februarju 1988.
Na svidenje v ZARJI, do prihodnjega dopisa.
JULKA KLAMMER (Najlepša hvala za tako lep in dolg dopis, Julka! Prosimo še za naprej! Želimo, da bi tudi druge Slovenke imele tako korajžo! Ured.)
JOSIP JURIČIČ:
ILUSTRIRAL MAXIM GASPARI
DESETI BRAT
Tjc v kamro, tje v kamro 2e sije prebeli dan, Pomenek, pogovor
SEDEMNAJSTO POGLAVJE	Se	ni	dokončan.
Narodna pesem
o	je deseti brat začutil, da je Krjavelj s Kvasom v hišo stopil, obrnil se je od stene. Videlo se je, da mu vsako gibanje veliko težave in bolečine dela. Lovre je ostrmel, ko je videl, kako zelo se je Martinek od sinoči spremenil. Z rjavega lica je bila kri zginila in vseh tistih značajnih prog ni bilo po obrazu.
»Ali ste prišli? Prav je, da ste prišli. Krjavelj! Primekni gospodu tisti panj, naj se usede,« pravi deseti brat.
Lovre je zapazil, da se Martinku ni samo način govorjenja sploh (poprej ga je, kakor skoro vse ljudi, tikal), temveč tudi glas spremenil.
»Krjavelj! Idi ven, midva imava svoje pomenke,« pravi Martin nadalje.
Dasi ne posebno rad, pobral se je hišni gospodar Krjavelj vendar iz hiše, popred pak je pol skrivaj namežikal Kvasu in dejal: «Kaj sem pravil, da bo testament!«
»Martin,« reče Lovre, »jaz vidim, da si zelo bolan; pošlji po zdravnika. Če ti kaj manjka, nič na skrbi, bo se že dobilo. Zdravje je draga reč, pa nikdar predraga.«
»Za take ljudi, ko ste vi, zame ne! Meni noben zdravnik ne pomaga. Moje ure so se stekle.«
»Te misli ne smeš imeti. Ti si nisi dal sam življenja, tedaj nisi gospodar svoj in ne veš, doklej imaš živeti. Kaj ne, da privoliš, da pošljem po Venclja. Na Slemenicah je zdaj, koj bo tukaj,« pravi Lovre.
»Če povem, da imam svinec v sebi, mislim, da boš tiho — prosim, ne zameri, da te tičem in govorim kakor v dnevih svoje neumnosti. Jaz že vem, zakaj te tičem.«
»Svinec?« vprašal je Lovre.
»Cel strel! Pa ne vprašuj dalje, odgovora ne boš dobil. Kar sem steknil, to je zasluženo. Rad grem gori k svoji materi. Upam, da mi bo Bog milostljiv,« pravi Martinek.
»Ali bi ti ne bilo veliko tolažbe, ko bi po duhovnika poslal?«
»To bom že oskrbel,« pravi Martinek. — »Tebe bom pa nekaj drugega prosil. Veliko ljudi je, ki so me radi videli in marsikoga sem tudi jaz rad imel, zaupal
pa nisem nikomur. Tebe bi bil lehko sovražil zaradi tvojega imena in rodu, ki me na nekoga domišlja. Toda ko sem te prvič videl, spoznal sem te, da nisi še drugemu svetu podoben, zlasti pa enemu človeku ne, ki ti je v rodu, katerega sem pa jaz sovražil žive dni, Bog mi odpusti ta greh! Zato sem te rad imel in zato sem te prosil, da si prišel zdaj k meni, ko mi je treba človeka, kateremu moram nekaj zaupati. Ali smem tebi?«
»Če ti jaz morem kaj storiti, storim ti z veseljem. Vendar če imaš kaj posebnega povedati, premisli, komu poveš. Jaz sem ti še skoro na pol tujec.«
»To ni res! Ti si med dvema eden, ki ni verjel, da sem jaz to, kar sem bil na videz. Eden je vedel, ti si pa mislil. Rad bi šel s sveta, da bi to med vama ostalo.
—	Posezi tu v zglavje!«
Lovre poseže v zglavje in dobi nekaj v ruto zavitih listin. Martinek se stegne in je vzame v roke, nekoliko razvije, oko se mu zasveti in poljubi je: »Prijatelj! Samo ena duša je bila na širokem svetu, ki je mene ljubila, kakor bolj ne more, in to je bila — moja mati. Ona je te črke pisala. Smrt imajo v sebi, zakaj enega človeka lehko pogub6. In vendar je je pisala ljubezen, ljubezen do sina!«
Pri teh besedah desetega brata je Lovre videl, da se mu je solza utrnila iz očesa.
»Ali tvoja mati še živi?« vpraša Martinek.
»Še,« odgovori Lovre.
»Kaj pa oče?«
»Tudi oče še živš.«
»Ali pa ti ljubiš tudi svojega očeta?« pravi deseti brat. — »Da, gotovo ga ljubiš. Srečen človek si, zakaj nobena reč ne žge in ne peče bolj človeka, kakor če ima očeta in ga mora sovražiti.«
»Martin! Ti si zelo bolan, nikar svojega zdravja še bolj ne kvari s tem, da si enake reči domišljaš,« dejal je Lovre.
»Domišljaš? Vprašam te, prijatelj, ali si je treba domišljati, če je človek vse življenje take misli in skušnje imel. Ti boš dejal, da takega ni, pa pogledi ga, ki pred teboj leži, in videl boš takega človeka. — Zdi se mi, da sem ti več povedal, kakor sem bil namenjen. Tukaj vzemi to pisanje in nesi ga na Polesek. Tam poišči starega gospodarja in daj mu vse to. Reci
mu, da sem ga pred svojo smrtjo prosil, naj mi odpusti. Tam gori bom žnjo vred — tako mu povedi — prosil Boga, da mu bo tudi on odpustil. Pa zarotim te na tvoje poštenje in na ljubezen do matere, katera te je rodila in te s trudom, skrbjo in potrpljivostjo odgojila, pomni, da ne pokažeš te reči živemu človeku razen njemu. Tudi sam je ne smeš pogledati.«
Lovre je mislil že šop spraviti, ko se je Martinek še v drugo stegnil in rekel: »Daj, še enkrat daj edini žalostni spomin moje matere. Kedar sem imel to-le v roki, spomnil sem se nje, kako je na smrtni postelji slovo od mene jemala z jokom in težkim srcem. Tačas sem zapisegel, da se bom maščeval. Da se nisem, zahvaliti se imam samo njej, njenemu dobremu srcu. Deseti brat bi bil lehko premožen mož, ali zaradi nje ni hotel biti, ki je v revščini in nadlogi živela.«
Vse, kar je Lovre danes slišal in videl, vse to se mu je tako čudno in posebno zdelo, da vsega ni mogel razmotati. Pač že prej ni veroval, da bi bil Martinek v istini deseti brat z vsemi lastnostmi, katere mu je kakor takemu ljudstvo prisojalo in katere si je sam tako dobro prisvajal. Ali zraven vsega tega ni nikdar mislil, da bi bil ta človek kaj več kakor bistroglav in lokav mož, ki je znal nekaj morda iz samopridnosti ali pa iz posebnega veselja vlastito in čudovito živeti ter radovedne ljudi varati. Dasi bi mu bilo ta ali oni prigodek, kdajšnje Martinkovo govorjenje in vedenje lehko misel zbudilo, katere seje ta dan prepričal, vendar ni prišel do tega, bodisi da mu ni bilo mar ali pa da je z lastnimi rečmi imel preudarka dovolj. Nehote mu je tedaj vstala človeštvu sploh znana slabost zvedavosti in pozabivši, da je deseti brat bolan, dejal je: »Martinek! Do danes te nisem poznal natanko. Iz tega pak, kar si zdaj govoril, posnemam, da si drugačno življenje preživel, kakor sem jaz mislil. Za vse to te ne vprašam, že veš, zakaj si reč zakrival. Samo to bi rad vedel, ali ti je resnica, kar si prej dejal, da bi namreč mene lehko sovražil zaradi mojega imena in rodu.«
»Ti si Kvas« — odgovori Martinek — »Kvas se pa lehko spremeni v besedo Kaves. Ti si iz kraja doma, kjer je neki Kaves doma.«
»Na imenu in domu pač ni nič ležeče, Martinek!«
»Vem, da ne, prijatelj, vem, da ne; če je človek pošten in dober, ostane pošten in časti vreden, naj ima kazno ali nekazno ime. Po imenu in po licu jaz ne sodim ljudi. Pa to pravijo ljudje, da na lesniki jabolko ne zraste.«
»Po tem takem ti je kdo iz moje rodovine kaj žalega storil?«
»Meni ne, meni ne!« odgovori deseti brat ter naenkrat nekaj bolj resen postane. Lovre je mislil, da mu njegovo vprašanje ni ljubo, zato je obmolknil. Ko tudi Martinek nekaj trenotkov ne reče nobene besede, vstane Kvas in pravi: »To pisanje bom že izročil, kakor želiš, ne skrbi. Sicer pa bo prišel zdravnik k tebi, če dovoliš ali ne dovoliš.«
Martin je med tem v okajeni leseni strop gledal in ni poslušal, kaj pravi Lovre. Šele ko je ta mislil oditi, poklical ga je nazaj in dejal: »Usedi se na panj nazaj!«
Lovre se je domislil, da ne utegne muditi se, da ga bodo v gradu pogrešali, vendar se ni mogel izgovarjati. Nekaj mu je dejalo, da naj ostane in ustreže možu, kateri je imel pač nekaj zanimljivosti zanj, dasi do
današnjega dne ne več kot tolike, kakor mika vsak original mislečega človeka, ki hoče poznavati čudno kodrčijo tega sveta, v katerem je on sam en del, čeravno neznanljivo manjiši, kakor si v svojem egoizmu včasih domišlja.
»Odkod si doma in kaj je tvoj oče, to sem vedel popred, preden sem te videl« — dejal je Martinek. — »Zdaj te pa vprašam, ali ne moreš vedeti, če je kdo iz tvoje sorodovine kdaj šolal se?«
»Pač!« dejal je Lovre. In kakor bi mu nekaj na um padlo, pogleda desetemu bratu v obraz. Pa daši je bil poslednji postaren na videz in nagrban, toliko let, kakor bi jih bilo za potrdilo njegove hitre misli treba, ni mogel Martinku prisoditi.
»Koliko je že tega in kdo bi bil to?« vpraša Martinek. — »Jaz sem vedel, da se ne motim.«
»To je kakih štirideset ali še več let, kar se ne v6 zanj. Mislimo, da je umrl. Mojega očeta brat je bil.«
Ko je Martinek to slišal, uprl se je z levo roko v zglavje, napol usedel se in s čudnim, strmečim glasom dejal: »On je tvoj stric!«
Koj po teh besedah pa se zgrudi na posteljo nazaj. Iz tega, kako je usta razvlekel in oči zatisnil, videlo se je, da ga je rana hudo zabolela, ko je nanagloma sklonil se pokoncu.
»Da, res je, lehko je tako« — govoril je potlej Martinek kakor sam se seboj. — »Mislil sem za gotovo, da je kaj takega. Da bi bilo pa tako, stric, stric — tega nisem vedel. Da, v enem pismu sem našel Kvas, drugod je Kaves. Ali pa veš, da ni še kdo drugi tvojih prednikov šel od doma?«
»Nobeden. Tudi za tega so doma pozabili. Le dvakrat sem slišal o njem praviti. Sicer so bili vsi kmetje. Moj oče je bil osem let star, ko je šel oni od doma. Potem se ni več oglasil. Pa kakor vidim, ti nekaj več veš o njem.«
»Vem, vem, še preveč vem!« — pravi Martin nekako zamolklo. — »Ker te zdaj še bolj poznam, moram ti zgodbo povedati, katere nisem drugemu ko sam sebi še nikoli pravil, da boš tudi ti vedel, kdo sem jaz.«
Ker je povest Martinkova precejšnje dolga, stavimo jo blagovoljnemu bravcu v naslednji odstavek.
—	Nadaljevanje —
Anna L. Hodnik
SLOVEnifin st. nicHOLfls
According to the Roman Catholic calendar, St. Nicholas Day comes on December the 6th. That is the start of the Christmas season and the Feast of St. Nicholas. This is celebrated on the first Sunday of Advent by all Catholic Middle European cultures.
Historically, St. Nicholas was a Bishop in the City of Smyrna in Asia Minor in the Fourth Century. Legend tells how he helped three young maidens, whose poor father could not afford doweries, by throwing money through the window into the house during the night. He was especially good to the youngsters and known for his gifts to the children.
Naturally, this legend was adopted and combined with local flavor of folklore in other nations.
Slovenians have a special admiration for good old St. Nicholas or “Sveti Miklavž”, and so he became one of the most popular saints. He is traditionally pictured dressed as a Bishop. In one hand is a Bishop’s Cane, in the other the Golden Apples. This symbolized the book of all the names of children, who have been good throughout the whole year, and eligible for gifts.
Learn Slovenian!
My good friend, Anita Vovk, found these two Christmas songs that we will use for our lesson this month. Maybe some of our junior members who play piano or other instruments could learn to play them for their branch Christmas party and some of the grandma’s could help them learn the verses in Slovenian.
I want to wish all of you, Vesele Božične Praznike (Happy Christmas Holidays)
Sveti Miklavž
Be- la
ka- pa, Ool-aa bra- da, to-pel
kc- 2uM, zvr-han koš.
On St. Nicholas Eve, children placed containers such as straw baskets, plates and even boots to hold the gifts he brought. But, before his arrival, Lucifer and his company of devils would go from house to house rattling chains and making other horrible sounds scaring the children who were bad for the year. Parents told the children for days before St. Nicholas’ arrival to be good or else the devils would take them away.
To equalize the effect of their medieval devilish appearance, there are always angels with St. Nicholas. They are his helpers and reassure the children that everything is alright.
Meanwhile, the tradition of celebrating St. Nicholas Day is also popular with the Greater Cleveland Slovenian Community. The pupils of both the Slovenian parish Schools — St. Vitus and St. Mary’s — usually present a short play with dancing and music in Slovenian preceding his arrival.
And so, this centuries—old tradition, with its origin in medieval passion plays, is still alive here, among children of the Slovenian community.
August B. Pust
Chrislmas of Many Nations Exhibit
Cleveland State University, 1979
IHIHIMimMIIIMIHIMHHIHIMUMIIMIHHHIIIIMHIHIIMIIHIIIMNmilMMMMHIMIMMMMIIIIIIMMIIMIIMIHIIIIIIHIMItlM
Marija se veseli
božična
E- naj-sta je
ur- ca te no- ci,
ri- ja ve- se- li, ko se Ma- ri- ja ve- se-
Oo- bri, lju- bi svet’Mi- klavž.
sve-te no- či.
/
Enajsta je urca te noči, ko se Marija veseli, ko se Marija veseli svete noči.
Dvanajsta jc urca te noči, ko sc Marija veseli, ko se Marija veseli,
Dete rodi.
J/Sl- Jezus je majhen, a je svet; -S* Sr— On je odrešil celi svet,
' ^	On je odrešil celi svet
na križu razpet.
L
1. Bela kapa, dolga brada, topel kožuh, zvrhan koš. Oj, že prišel je med nas dobri, ljubi svet’ Miklavž.
2. Veselimo se, otroci, saj Miklavž nas rad ima. Le korajžno mu povejmo, kar se naučili smo.
3.
Obljubimo ti, da pridni biti vedno hočemo, atka, mamico ljubiti, jim veselje delati.
DAVY’S COLUMN
HEAVEN SENT
Michael, the Archangel looked towards the Almighty to see a single tear roll down His cheek.
“The Lord is crying,” Michael said to Gabriel in a whisper.
“Have you looked to Earth, lately? It’s no wonder with all the abortions, rapes, murders, stealing, or what-have-you. Frankly, I’m surprised He doesn’t cry more often,” whispered Gabriel.
However, whisper or shout, the Lord hears all.
“This tear upon My cheek is because My heart has been touched. From the chaotic sounds of earth, one small voice has been heard. One lost lamb cries from the heart for help. She doesn’t realize her true worth.
I must send someone to let her know all is forgiven. She must know I consider her to be priceless, like all my works. But who shall I send?”
The archangels and guardian angels exchanged looks. Seraphim stopped singing, and for a moment the heavens were silent.
“I’ll go, if You want me to. Lord.”
From the choir of cherubs the tiny voice came and a tiny little cherub walked towards the throne of the Almighty. Despite the fact that she held her gown up, bunched in her arms, she still managed to get her toes stuck in the hem, landing at the feet of the Lord.
What I Think
The Lord picked up the little angel and sat her on His knee.
“It will be scary at times,” He tested.
“But Lord, you promised to be with the people of earth ‘til the end of time.”
“So, I did.”
He hugged the little angel.
Michael stepped forward and knelt on one knee.
“As your warrior against all that is evil, I am aware that despair and lack of self-esteem are two of Satan’s greatest weapons. No disrespect intended but how is this “little one” to accomplish such a tremendous task?
The cherub looked up at the Lord, who smiled; and winked at her. Turning back to Michael she said, “That’s easy. I’ll just call her mommy.”
’Til Next Month.
DAVY
Christmas Memories
Silently, silently, the white snow covers all with its soft cloak — every little house, every shack is like a palace hewn out of alabaster; every path, an avenue in some enchanted land.
The pale light of the lamps, reflected from the fluttering snowflakes, glistens as a thousand Bethlehem stars.
A hurrying and scurrying city has quieted, and the streets are empty and deserted. All is hushed, just as the elevation, the sinful world again, prayerfully awaits the sacred hour of Christ's hirth.
In the small house, love, which warms the hearts as fire in the heart warms and disperses winter's cold, reigns; the pine fills every nook with its welcome perfume.
In front of the decorated tree stands the crib where Mary again rocks the Infant, and heavenly angels are singing.
Around are the little ones who can hardly wait to see what Santa will bring. Their eyes are glowing like candles, their young voices singing like the happy Christmas bells.
"Silent Night, Holy Night..."
The curtain parts - the years melt into nothingness - for one joyful moment we are, on this holy eve, children again. Silently, we wipe away a tear that has slipped down the cheek.
Marie Bombach Dye No. 105, Detroit, MI
CHRISTMAS PRAYER
Mother Mary, Mother Mild,
May / take Thy Little Child from His manger bed of hay —
May I hold Him, press Him to my heart today?
May / take the Precious One Mother Mary, Thy Newborn Son, Cuddle Him and sing a while,
Love Him, watch Him smile?
I shall be gentle with the Treasure, My joy no one can measure As I hold Thy Little Child —
May I Mother, Mother mild?
Marie Bombach Dye No. 105, Detroit, Ml
When I go to bed at night I get a wonderful feeling.
As my thoughts go everywhere my eyes glanoe at the celling.
What do I think of late at night while Uelng in my bed?
My life in the future or the next word to be said?
What is the next fear I may have in 20 years to come?
What will my favorite food be, an apple or a plum?
The only one who knows these things is God up in the sky.
For he knew when I was to be born and knows when I will die.
My eyes are getting heavier every breath I take.
And my motions are getting weaker every move I make.
All the stuff that I think axe in a giant heap.
Now all my thoughts are sorted out and It’s time to go to sleep.
by Daniel Gordon
Thanks, Daniel for the poem you wrotefor our Junior Page this Christmas! Your grandma, Rosemary Gordon of Hr. 55, Girard, Ohio tells us that you have your own typewriter and do all your own writing on it. That's wonderful!
We hope to hearfrom you often! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Editor
2ND CLASS
POSTAGE
PAID
CHICAGO
ILLINOIS
Ermenc Funeral Home
5325 W. Greenfield Ave.	Phone: 327-4500
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
ZELE FUNERAL HOMES, INC.
TWO COMPLETE FUNERAL HOMES 452 East 152nd St.	6502	St.	Clair	Ave.
Office
481-3118	Cleveland,	Ohio	361-0583
ZEFRAN FUNERAL HOME
1941-43 WEST CERMAK ROAD
LOUIS J. ZEFRAN	ELIZABETH	L.	ZEFRAN
(1907 -1981)	(1912-1987)
LOUIS R. ZEFRAN	MARILYN	E.	ZEFRAN
Funeral Directors and Embalmers
CHICAGO, IL. 60608	847-6688
GEREND HABERMANN Funeral Home
SHEBOYGAN, WI 53081
FREDC. DAMES
FUNERAL HOME
Joel L. Dames	Mark	L.	Dames
Jon P. Dames
251 N. CENTER AT CAMPBELL JOLIET, ILLINOIS 60435 PHONE AREA CODE 815/726-5211 A Name to Remember
First
SS-i:--------- Midwest
Bank
Joliet
National Association
50 W. Jefferson Street	Member	F.D.I.C.
Joliet, Illinois 60431	815*727-5222
New edition available October, 1986! Revised, enlarged! Slovenian-International Cookbook
POTS & PANS
$9.00
Books on Slovenian Immigrants and Pioneers
FROM SLOVENIA TO AMERICA $5.00 hardbound — $3.50 softbound
FOOTSTEPS THROUGH TIME $6.00
For orders, send remittance plus $1 postage per book to: SLOVENIAN WOMEN’S UNION 431 NO. CHICAGO ST.,
JOLIET, ILL. 60432
TEZAK	
FUNERAL	459 North Ottawa Street
HOME	Joliet, IL 60435
First in service since 1908 Phone 772-0534	
GRDINA FUNERAL HOMES
CLEVELAND, OHIO
17010 Lake Shore Blvd.	531-6300
1053 East 62nd St.	431-2088
I	1
I
|	Poems	of	laughter,	love	and tears!
I
ROŽE Z MOJIH VRTOV FLOWERS FROM MY GARDENS
|	by	Mary	Štangelj	Murn
I
|	Please send me_____copies at $8.50	each
plus $l .00 for postage and	handling per book.
NAME
| Address ______________________________________________
City	State	Zipcode
I	Make checks payable to and send order to:
Slovenian Women’s Union, 431 No. Chicago St., Joliet, IL60432.