Zarja — The Dawn
URADO GLASILO SLOVENSKE ŽENSKE ZVEZE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION SLOVENIAN WOMEN S UNION
NUMBER 5-6 MAY-JUNE, 1991 VOLUME 63
by Nancy Bukovnik
‘Slovenian Madonna
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ZAflJA - DAWN
(ISSN 0044-1848)
Postmaster: Send all changes of address to: ZARJA -THE DAWN, 4851 S. Drexel Blvd., Chicago, IL 60615
ON THE COVER...
VOL. 63
NO. 5-6	MAY-JUNE,	1991
Member, Illinois Fraternal Congress
-
Official Publication of the Slovenian Women's Union of America — Uradno glasilo Slovenske Ženske Zveze.
Published monthly except January, June & August — izhaja vsak mesec razen januar, junij in avgust.
Annual Subscription for non-members, $10.00 — naročnina $10.00 letno za ne-članice.
Publisher: SLOVENIAN WOMEN’S UNION OF AMERICA 431 No. Chicago St., Joliet, IL 60432 Telephone (815) 727-1926
Second Class Postage paid at Chicago, IL
All communications for the next issue of publication must be in the hands of the Editor by the first week of the month — vsi dopisi za naslednjo izdajo mesečnika morajo biti v rokah urednice do 1. i' mesecu.
Editor, CORINNE LESKOVAR Editorial Office: 4851 S. Drexel Blvd., Chicago, IL 60615 Telephone: (312) 548-8878
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CONVENTION IDEAS
WHAT TO TAKE TO THE CONVENTION:
1. A Smile, a spirit of friendliness.
2. An open, but not empty mind.
3. A will to learn.
4. Ideas to share.
5. Necessary tickets and credentials.
6. Comfortable shoes.
WHAT TO DO AT THE CONVENTION:
1. Attend all meetings and sessions.
2. Be on time.
3. Listen to speakers and learn.
4. Acquaint yourself with other delegates.
5. Take notes.
6. Enjoy yourself.
WHAT TO DO AFTER THE CONVENTION:
1. Write a report of the convention happenings.
2. Give a convention report at your Branch meeting.
3. Try new ideas received at the convention.
4. Be enthisiastic and encourage other branch members to attend National and State Conventions.
From the “Slovenian American Art Series”
Something about the artist
NANCY BUKOVNIK graduated with honors from Monti-cello College in Godfrey, Illinois, where she was art editor of Monticello Times, and from The Cleveland Institute of Art, where she was a finalist for the Gund Award. A self-employed artist, commissioned by individuals and corporations throughout America, she has illustrated numerous publications, ranging from commercial directories for Ohio Bell to children’s books and school texts. She received many prizes and awards, including the Gold Medal Award from the Cleveland Society of Communicating Art, CA Magazine Award for Excellence, and Award of Distinction for Outstanding Achievement in the Field of Graphic Communications at the Chicago I Exhibit. Nancy is granddaughter of Tone Kmet, an immigrant from Slovenia who was immortalized by the noted Slovenian American writer Louis Adamic in his classic short story, “The Old Alien by the Kitchen Window.” Proud of her Slovenian heritage, she still knows Slovenian language and has diversified and enriched her art by incorporating many Slovenian motifs.
Photo courtesy, the Slovenian Research Center of America. Inc.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY IN
MAY & JUNE
National Officer:
from Sylvia May 12 - Barbara Spritzer, Regional President of Col-
orado-Kansas-Missouri, Gunnison, CO
Presidents:
May	11	-	Christine Konte, Br. 66, Canon City,	CO
May	25	-	Frances Yerman, Br. 57, Niles, OH
June	4	-	Ann Heinemann, Br. 28, Calumet, MN
June 24	-	Genevieve Safran, Br. 27, Braddock,	PA
Secretaries:
May 3 -May 6 -May 7 -May 13 -May 14 -May 27 -May 28 -June 1 -June 3 -June 11 -June 19 -June 29 -June 30 -
Anna Anderson, Br. 79, Enumclaw, WA Gladys Buck, Br. 16, So. Chicago, IL Josephine Argubright, Br. 89, Oglesby, IL Helen McFarland, Br. 66, Canon City, CO Mary Pabijan, Br. 15, Cleveland, OH Anka Kregar, Br. 55, Girard, OH Linda Lambright, Br. 6, Barberton, OH Ann Pavelič, Br. 8, Steelton, PA Jane Hudak, Br. 74, Ambridge, PA Betty Stack, Br. 24, LaSalle, IL Dorothy Brezonik, Br. 1, Sheboygan, WI Elizabeth Spolar, Br. 56, Hibbing, MN Rosemary Susel, Br. 10, Cleveland, OH
MANY HAPPY RETURNS OF THE DAY!
NDEPENDENT SAVINGS
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SAVINGS BANK
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WELCOME!	lir	/v-
21 ST NATIONAL CONVENTION!	H
There is an old quote by poet, Robert Frost, which says, "Nature does not complete things. She is chaotic. Man must finish, and he does by making a garden and building a wall.”
Nature was indeed chaotic. Returning home from our Board meeting, we arrived in Minneapolis in rain and fog. The day before we were walking around the mall in Joliet in shirt sleeves as the temperature rose to 70 degrees. What a change! We were grounded in the Twin Cities due to heavy fog in Duluth. Buses were chartered to drive us to Duluth—arriving late that evening, never realizing we were entering into a terrible wind and ice storm-similar to what we experienced in the Ely area in mid-October. The storm intensified after we were comfortably settled at our daughter, Ann’s home in Duluth. Needless to say, we were grateful to be back home after such an ordeal.
On Easter Sunday morning we had a fresh blanket of snow on the ground, felt more like Christmas than Easter. By mid-afternoon the sun came out; we've been enjoying beautiful, warm weather ever since. Most of the snow has melted and my thoughts turn to planting our gardens, i.e., alter finishing all of my S.W.U. commitments.
It has been reported that some branches have not audited their books at the end of the year. It is extremely important that this matter receives attention immediately.
The second Sunday in May is Mother's Day, this special day to honor our living and deceased mothers. Their unselfishness, their wisdom, their strong faith values, their work ethic, and their Christian example shall always remain as constant reminders of their endless sacrifice and love.
Convention 1991 is just a matter of a few weeks away. Please come to the Convention prepared to participate and plan on bringing back a report to your respective branches who elected you as their representative. Yes, there is a responsibility in being a delegate.
Your National President and Secretary have prepared a roster of Committees with the delegate's name listed in this issue of ZARJA. A brief statement of what is expected of each committee member follows:
BY-LAWS COMMITTEE members should study the revisions mailed to them and be prepared by studying the By-laws before the Convention convenes.
CREDENTIALS COMMITTEE will work as the delegates arrive to register prior to the convention. They will check the Credentials which the delegates present with the Credentials which were mailed earlier to the Home
Office. An accurate account of registered delegates and National Officers is required when the Convention opens.
MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE will involve all Regional Presidents. Come prepared with some positive suggestions or innovative ideas.
The NOMINATING COMMITTEE will have the awesome responsibility of presenting a qualified slate of officers who will serve on the Board for the next four years.
CULTURAL & HERITAGE COMMITTEE has a wide range of subjects and ideas to discuss and present ways and means to implement them.
WOMEN'S & YOUTH ACTIVITIES COMMITTEE requires an active and spirited outlook. Let’s come prepared with your ideas and a realistic program.
ZARJA is the official organ which publishes all S.W.U. Board meetings and other business matters pertaining to S.W.U. along with the many other interesting articles. Means of advertising and talents of members who would be willing to share their talents by writing articles for ZARJA, are a few suggestions.
SCHOLARSHIP COMMITTEE depends entirely on our donations. Any ideas that haven’t been proposed, would be helpful.
SALARIES & PER DIEMS requires a judicious study of our financial situation. Do you feel any salaries need to be increased? Per diems and other financial matters should be discussed.
FUND RAISING COMMITTEE is a new committee. Any proposals or ways one could increase funds for various
S.W.U. projects would be helpful.
May we come together during our 21st National Convention united in prayer, sisterhood and dedication to the ideals of this great organization, the Slovenian Women’s Union of America. See you in Cleveland!
Victoria “Tory" Bobe nee
“ZVEZA” CAMPAIGN
New Membership Campaign began April 1st, 1991! Our new campaign is dedicated to “ZVEZA”, the word that is our name, our goal and our symbol.
Can you come up with a slogan using the letters S and W and U as beginning letters? Slogans will be printed in ZARJA!
We are celebrating our 65th Anniversary and invite you to join us in building our membership ranks with new members and with new spirit! Stay With Us! Strong, Warm, Unique!
THURS.-FRI.-SAT.-SUN.
MAY 15-19 NO. RANDALL, OHIO
DAYS INN
4600 Northfield Road North Randall, Ohio 44128 (216) 663-4100
Dear Sister Members of S.W.U.:
They say it is not over “until the fat lady sings," and we are very close to that point of our National Convention. We have accomplished so much as we prepare for the convention, but it is the fruits of the business sessions, the input from the delegates, the suggestions offered and considered and the dedication of everyone present that will truly spell success.
We ask those of you who will be with us in spirit, to add our intentions to our daily prayers. Let this convention strengthen the bonds that have held us together these many years, let us set goals that will firmly establish our future. May the leaders that we choose be strong, devoted and loyal to S.W.U. With those purposes in mind, Slovenska Zenska Zveza will flourish!
To the delegates and officers, best of luck in all your efforts during the convention.
VISITOR INFORMATION
Branch No. 73 is proud to be your host for the 21st National Convention of Slovenian Women’s Union of America. We, along with our sister branches, will try to make your stay in Cleveland, Ohio as pleasant and enjoyable as possible.
Upon your arrival at the Days Inn, if you have not made prior arrangements to attend any of the convention functions, please check at our desk/table to obtain any tickets still available.
Tours for visitors, while delegates are in business sessions, will be arranged as necessary. Again, please check with Branch No. 73 to add your name to the list.
Transportation to!from functions will be furnished (at your cost). Please be sure to advise the Committee (Branch No. 73) if you are in need of such transportation. If transportation can be arranged by private means (member’s cars) cost will be minimal.
Directly across from the Day’s Hotel is the Thistledown Racetrack, home of the Ohio Derby. For an enjoyable day of thoroughbred racing, please see a Branch No. 73 member for a free pass.
Dinner-Dance Tickets $18.00- Alouise Epley, 20294 Emery Road, North Randall, Ohio 44128 - Phone: (216) 662-5310 Sunday Dinner tickets $12.00 - Josephine Mohorčič, 1051 East 61st Street, Cleveland, Ohio 44103 - Phone: (216) 361-0334 Bus Tour (Wednesday, May 15) - $23.00 (only 47 seats available).
Dubrovnik’s - $7.50 Buffet, pay at the door.
CLEVELAND
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Evelyn A. Majercik, Chairman 1991 National Convention Slovenian Women’s Union of America
21st NATIONAL CONVENTION Slovenian Women’s Union of America
North Randall, Ohio May 16 -19,1991
WEDNESDAY - May 15, 1991 (Available for early arrivals)
11:00 AM - 9:00 PM Bus tour of Cleveland, highlighting points of interest, including our new Tower City, Cleveland Indians-Browns Stadium, Severance Center and much more. Includes dinner at Sterle’s Slovenian Country House.
THURSDAY - May 16, 1991
2:00 - 5:00 PM
2:30 PM
6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
FRIDAY - May 17, 1991
7:30 AM 8:30 AM
10:00 AM Noon 1:00 PM
Registration at Day’s Hotel, No. Randall, Ohio
Meeting, Regional Presidents and National Board of Directors
Cocktails, everyone welcome!
Hors d’ouevres and music to enjoy
Late registrations
Opening session of 21st National Convention, National Anthems, Invocation,
Welcoming remarks
Keynote speaker, Edward F. Gobetz, Ph.D. Lunch Break
Business Session continues (conducted as needed)
7:00 PM Depart for dinner at Doubrovnik’s
SATURDAY - May 18, 1991
8:00 AM
9:00 AM Noon 1:00 PM
5:30 PM - 6:00 PM
Assembly for Official Convention Photo
Business session reconvenes
Lunch Break
Business sessions continue (conducted as needed)
Depart for Vincentian Party Center, Dinner-Dance
“Golden Years” - Slide Presentation prior to dinner
SUNDAY - May 19, 1991
Beginning at 10:00 AM
Departure for St. Vitus Church, Solemn High Mass at Twelve Noon, followed by dinner at the Parish Hall.
Installation of Officers will take place at this time.
(Dinner approximately 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM) Closing of Convention.
We are privileged to have as our keynote speaker at the Convention Dr. Edward Gobetz, Professor, Kent State University
We thank Dr. Gobetz for his continued interest in Slovene heritage and in particular the Slovenian Women’s Union of America of which he has been a long, devoted friend.
Dr. Edward Gobetz (or, in Slovenian, Edi Gobec) is professor of sociology and anthropology at Kent State University, and executive director of The Slovenian Research Center of America, Inc. He is an author or editor of fifteen books (with additional volumes now in print) and of scores of articles and book reviews which have been published in American and international scholarly journals and popular magazines. For many years, he was also a contributor to most Slovenian American newspapers and to several papers in other countries. He has lectured widely at scholarly conferences and has been much in demand as speaker for various Slovenian affairs in several American states, as well as in Canada. His exhibits on Slovenian contributions have been presented not only in many Slovenian communities in USA and Canada, but also in several American libraries and museums. He serves on a number of editorial boards and is associate editor of International Journal of Contemporary Sociology. A former vice president of Delta Tau Kappa — The International Social Science Honor Society and current chairman of Education Committee of National Confederation of American Ethnic Groups, Dr. Gobetz has been selected for inclusion in numerous prestigious reference works, including National Register of Prominent Americans. Prof. Gobetz was also selected an Outstanding Educator of America in 1972 and was presented the Achievement Award by the United Inventors and Scientists of America in 1974. He established the Slovenian Studies at Kent State University where he regularly teaches Slovenian as a voluntary overload and without pay, and is a member of numerous Slovenian, American and international societies and institutes, including the Slovenian Theological Academy in Rome.
Convention Banquet at interesting location
On Saturday, May 18, the social highlight of our National Convention will be the dinner-dance held at the Vincentian Hall in Bedford, Ohio. It is not the hall that is significant, but the property on which it is located. The hall, formerly an auditorium for the Vincentian Sisters of Charity, is only one corner of the acreage better known in this area as the “Shrine of Our Lady of Levocha.”
The particular shrine is the only shrine of Our Lady of Levocha outside of Levocha, Slovakia. Consequently, thousands of Slovak-Americans have found part of their roots (home, history, heritage) at her Shrine in Bedford, Ohio.
The original statue of the Virgin Mary was discovered in Levocha in 1698 while town officials were searching for a valuable document. The statue was placed in St. James Cathedral which became the first home of Our Lady of Levocha. Devotion to Our Lady was a focal point of life and this continued strongly until the communist takeover in 1949. Devotions then declined or were kept secret.
In 1928 the Bedford property was donated to the Cleveland Diocese and subsequently offered to the Vincentian Sisters of Charity. The original owner had intended to construct a “Nordic Shrine”—a replica of old Germany.
The Sisters had the carving of a statue out of solid wood, a replica of the original statue, made in Slovakia, carefully packed and shipped to the United States. The statue was blessed in 1930 at the dedication and opening of the first and only American Shrine of Our Lady of Levocha.
The Motherhouse of the Vincentian Sisters of Charity is located near the large outdoor shrine. Numerous statues, memorials, altars are located throughout. Stations of the cross are situated in the wooded area. To those attending the dinner-dance, it will be well worth your time and effort to arrive early and view the beautifully landscaped grounds surrounding this shrine devoted to Our Lady of Levocha.
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On October 5, 1930, Archbishop Joseph Schrembs blessed the statue of Our Lady of Levocha in Bedford, Ohio. Over 40,000 people attended the dedication and opening of this first and only American Shrine of Our Lady of Levocha.
An engaging feature of the Bedford statue is something not directly part of the statue itself, that is, the oval behind it, somewhat larger, around whose edge are hand-carved roses that form the Rosary. Attached to the rosary are long, \> ooden golden rays and eight child-sized angels touching the roses and gazing at Our Lady.
It seems apparent that the entire composition: statue with crown and scepter, rosary, angels and rays emanating from the statue, succeeds in showing Our Lady of Levocha as a replica which had bridged centuries of devotion to the Mother of God.
In the Bedford shrine Our Lady of Levocha is a strikingly beautiful work of art which has combined the historical facts of its existence with the national and artistic instincts of the Slovak people along with the devotional practice of 'he rosary which the people love so dearly.
21ST NATIONAL CONVENTION DELEGATES AND ALTERNATES
Branch	Delegate	Alternate
1. Sheboygan, WI	Hermine Dicke	—
2. Chicago, IL	Gloria Nusko	Mary Ann Oblak
	Mary Foys Lauretig	Catherine Srabarneck
3. Pueblo, CO	Angela Meglen	—
10. Cleveland, OH	Dorothy Zagar	Steffie Segulin
12. Milwaukee, WI	Stavia Dobersek	—
13. San Francisco, CA	Beverly Jackson	—
14. Euclid, OH	Diane Varney Martha Koren	Jennie Fitzhum
16. South Chicago, IL	Dolores O'Brien	Gladys Buck
17. West Allis, WI	Frances Piwoni	Catherine Matzelle
20. Joliet, IL	Joyce Vicich	Ann Dragovan
	Ardis Gregorash	Mildred Pucel
	Josephine Lustik	Helen Plut
23. Ely, MN	Ann Saari	Jane Yadloski
25. Cleveland, OH	Josephine Mohorčič	Janet Krivacic
	Mary Turk	Irene Reiman
26. Pittsburgh, PA	Agnes Widina	Magdaline Burns
32. Euclid, OH	Dorothy Lamm	Josephine Comenshek
33. Duluth, MN	Beverly Menart	Josephine Rzatkowski
34. Soudan, MN	Adeline Mustonen	—
35. Aurora, MN	Dorothy Jamnick	Florence Holland
38. Chisholm, MN	Charlotte Laurich	Frances Zalec
39. Biwabik, MN	Jean Korsman	
42. Maple Heights, OH	Marjorie Church	Mildred Lipnos
43. Milwaukee, WI	Matilda Simcic	—
47. Garfield Heights, OH Mary Taucher		Mary Mundson
50. Cleveland, OH	Mary Jo Rom	Mary Miller Mary Maxim
55. Girard, OH	Anka Kregar	—
56. Hibbing, MN	Mary Massich	Valeria Carlson
73. Warrensville Hts, OHAIouise Epley		Evelyn Majercik
79. Enumclaw, WA	Dorothy Sleigh	Mary Bratovich
81. Keewatin, MN	Josephine Kapla	Ann Michelich
85. DePue, IL	Mary Jermene	—
89. Oglesby, IL	Angie Nico	Marilyn Argubright
95. South Chicago, IL Mary Brozynski
100. Fontana, CA
102. Willard, WI
103. Washington, D.C. 105. Detroit, Ml
Henrietta Bledsoe Ann Collier Nika Kovacic Kathleen Emerson
Ann Kapel Mary Staut Matilda Ausich Lola F. Craig
Convention COMMITTEES
BY-LAWS
Olga Ancel, Chairman—1L Joyce Vicich, IL #20 Charlotte Laurich, MN #38 Dorothy Sleigh, WA #79 Mary Turk, OH #25 Frances Piwoni, WI #17
CULTURE & HERITAGE
Irene Odorizzi, Chairman-DC Jean Korsman, MN #39 Dolores O'Brien, IL #16 Henrietta Bledsoe, CA #100 Stavia Dobersek, WI #12 Diane Varney, OH #14
WOMEN’S & YOUTH ACTIVITIES
Fran Morison, Co-Chm—IL Bernadette Kovacic, Co-Chm—DC Anka Kregar, OH #55 Beverly Jackson, CA #13 Kathleen Emerson, MI #105 Dorothy Zagar, OH #10
SCHOLARSHIPS
Hermine Dicke, Chairman—WI Ardis Gregorash, IL #20 Mary Massich, MN #56 Nika Kovacic, DC #103 Agatha Donges, OH #40
SALARIES & PERDIEMS
Sylvia Vukodinovich, Chm-IL Marge Church, OH #42 Josephine Kapla, MN #81 Angela Meglen, CO #3 Matilda Simcic, WI #43 Angela Nico, IL #89
CREDENTIALS
Marion Marolt, Chairman-WI Mary Jo Rom, OH #50 Mary Taucher, OH #47 Olga Kluser, MN #19 Mary Foys Lauretig, IL #2
MEMBERSHIP
Ann Tercek, Chairman-OH Jennie Flisek, PA Sharon Naudziunas, IL Joan Yaklich, WI Emily Skull, MN Barbara Spritzer, CO Rosemary Mlakar, CA
NOMINATING
Cirila Kermavner, Chairman-OH Louise Epley, OH #79 Beverly Menart, MN #33 Gloria Nusko, IL #2 Ann Collier, WI #102 Agnes Widina, PA #26
ZARJA
Corinne Leskovar, Chairman-IL Dorothy Lamm, OH #32 Anne Saari, MN #23 Josephine Kassan, OH #54 Mary Jermene, IL #85
FUND RAISING COMMITTEE
Mary Muller, Chairman-IL Martha Koren, OH #14 Josephine Lustik, IL #20 Dorothy Jamnick, MN #35 Josephine Mohorčič, OH #25 Mary Brozynski, IL #95
MINUTES OF THE ANNUAL MEETING BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF SWU Home Office, Joliet, Illinois, March 18, 19, 20, 1991
The meeting was called to order at 9:30 a.m. Monday, March 18th, by the President. In her welcoming remarks she thanked all for their concern and supporting thoughts at the time of her husband’s recent surgery. Present were the following Board members:
President, Victoria Bobence, Vice-President, Cirila Kermavner, Secretary, Olga Ancel, Treasurer, Sylvia Vukodinovich, Auditors, Mary Muller and Marion Marolt, Scholarship Committee President, Hermine Dicke, Cultural and Heritage Director, Irene Odorizzi, Youth and Women’s Activities Director, Fran Morison, Editor of ZARJA, Corinne Leskovar.
1991 Convention Chairman, Evelyn Majercik was also present as a guest.
The agenda of the meeting was given with guests noted for the next day, namely, Fr. David Stalzer and Robert Holmes, speaking on the SWU Museum plans.
Minutes of the previous meeting (March, 1990) were dispensed from reading. Moved by Cirila Kermavner, seconded and carried.
Correspondence was received from former National Treasurer, Mary Marolt and former California-Washington-Oregon State President, Rose Scoff.
Secretary asked for travel vouchers and noted that 26c per mile is allowed per auto.
The President called for the reading of reports.
President’s Report Vice-President’s Report Secretary’s Report Treasurer’s Report
(Reports begin on page 10.)
These reports were accepted for file. More reports will be read at a later time.
The Directors attended to the examination of the investment portfolio at the First Midwest Trust Co. in downtown Joliet. The meeting there was attended also by Trust officers, Ronald Erjavec, Joy Gruber and Paul Ganzert. A complete written report was presented for inspection and discussion. The Directors were thorough in their review of the documents and made recommendations that the bank will follow for the coming year and in connection with this, the bank officers will attend another meeting with the Board at a convenient time the next day.
The Directors adjourned for lunch at the Home Office and reconvened the meeting at 1:30 p.m.
Reports of officers continued as follows:
Cultural and Heritage Director's Report Women’s Activities Director’s Report Scholarship Committee President's Report ZARJA Editor’s Report
(Reports begin on page 15.)
All reports were accepted for file. It was noted by the Directors that the resignation of the Scholarship Director would create a vacancy in this position to be appointed by the president. With deep regret, the president
accepted Mr. Dicke’s wish to retire after 25 years of dedicated work. During her tenure, 116 student grants were given by SWU and great progress made in the administration of the fund. The Directors are very appreciative of Mrs. Dicke’s work, commending her and thanking her sincerely. The Director’s discussion of the Scholarship Fund continued. A Resolution from Br. 20, Joliet, Illinois was reviewed as it concerns the Fund and its function. This Resolution will be given to the Scholarship Committee at the Convention. Moved by C. Leskovar that the Scholarship Committee be authorized to recommend restructuring of this committee. Amendment moved by H. Dicke that the Board's recommendations for a new Director and committee members also be given to the convention committee. Amended motion seconded and carried.
New Scholarship requirements flyers will be distributed to all the branches. It was noted that the deadline for 1991-92 grants is March 31, 1991 and five $1,000 scholarships will be given to deserving students.
The Directors recommended that a new version of the popular SWU cookbook, "Pots and Pans” be printed in the near future, since the present supply is dwindling. Mrs. Dicke, the editor of the cookbook was authorized by the Board to begin working on the revision as soon as possible. This will be the fourth edition of this cookbook. New recipes and artwork will be included under the supervision of Mrs. Dicke, intended to create a new market for sales. Moved by C. Kermavner and carried.
Suggestions were given to Mrs. Morison for new women’s activities in the future, such as collection of coupons for new Home Office equipment, contest for a campaign slogan, etc.
Tour of Washington, D.C. and Ellis Island in New York City was presented by Irene Odorizzi. It will be arranged in connection with Baraga Days in September, 1991. All members are encouraged to attend. The Immigrant Wall at Ellis Island, the newly restored and re-opened buildings connected with the immigrant history of our country, the majestic Statue of Liberty and other attractions in New York were planned by Mrs. Odorizzi to bring to life all the immigrant stories that have been printed in ZARJA for the past ten years, under her authorship. The Cause for the Canonization of Bishop Baraga is another of Zveza’s deep interests, therefore, the Directors felt it is appropriate that such a tour, for two such important events, would be interesting for our members to attend. Information will be available through ZARJA and at the Home Office.
The Editcy presented a questionnaire to all the Directors, asking for their personal feelings and comments on the SWU. This questionnaire was reviewed, the answers clearly showing the fact that all of us need to be good public relations officers, promoting the beautiful parts of the organization that mean the most to us as members.
A new membership campaign will begin April 1st, 1991, and continue until the next convention in four years. The Phases 1, II, III and IV will be divisions, one per
year, the same as in the last campaign. The secretary presented the statistical results of each of the last campaigns and it was noted that it takes quite a bit of energy and personal contact to be a winner. Such a person is Jonita Ruth, the Home Office secretary who has enrolled the largest number of new members in the past four year period. This entitles her to the main prize, a week’s vacation at the Clear Lake Resort, Ely, MN. Jonita and her family will take advantage of this prize this summer. The Board is very grateful to John and Tory Bobence for this generous prize and for their gracious acceptance and hospitality.
The new merhbership Campaign will center on the "logo” or symbol of SWU, the wreath surrounding a torch, which is seen on the cover of ZARJA and an all the official material that goes out from the Home Office. Along with the symbol, a slogan will be used that utilizes the first three letters of our name, Slovenian Women’s Union, e.g. Success With Unity! A contest will be held to find more slogans that can be used through the campaign. The word Zveza will be highlighted in this campaign because in many of our branches and their communities, this organization is known as Zveza, as a simpler form of identification. We are now 65 years old, the significance of which will be made at the forthcoming National Convention and in ZARJA. The Directors are hopeful that many good slogans will be coming in, and this will help promote the organization and all it stands for.
Campaign prizes will again be cash for individual workers computed according to the classification of enrollees, such as: $1 for a new Class B member, 0.50 for a new Class A member and 0.25 for every new Junior member, plus a semi-final prize for every top worker per Phase. This prize will be coordinated to the “wreath” symbol, such as a dry flower arrangement, useful and beautiful at the same time.
The campaign structure, prizes, etc. was moved by M. Muller, seconded and carried.
Because of her conscientious work and new member enrollments, Jonita Ruth will be recognized at the National Convention as a special guest and honorary delegate and as a further token of appreciation, have her expenses paid for this trip. Moved by I. Odorizzi, seconded and carried.
Top Campaign worker in the new campaign, with a minimum of 50 new members, will be offered the same invitation for the 1995 National Convention. Moved by M. Marolt, seconded and carried.
The Directors recommended that members living in retirement in Florida should be offered some social activities and unification as members of Zveza. This is a task that will require quite a bit of organizing and the Directors were happy to know that Evelyn Majercik, who lives in Florida for part of the year, will undertake this work. In other communities, such as Arizona and California, members are urged to get together as groups, in the name of Slovenian Women’s Union.
Adjournment at 5:45 p.m.
The meeting was reconvened on Tuesday morning, March 19, 1991, at 9:15 a.m. The president opened the meeting with prayer.
The first order of business was a review of the By-laws of this organization, revisions recommended by the Board as follows:
1. Delete the word [subordinate] when referring to branches beginning with Article 3.04.
2. Change the words [three-fourths majority] to two-
thirds majority in Article 3.04 (two times in this paragraph.).
3. Change [three-fourths] to two-thirds in Article
4.04.
4. Add to listing of committees: k.) Fund-raising; change/.) [Nominations] to nominating in Article 4.07.
5. Change entire Article 4.14 to read: Delegates shall be entitled to reasonable travel and per diem expenses for the National Conventions.
6. Change [eleven official members] to seven official members. Omit last sentence [Scholarship Committee Director, Cultural and Heritage Director, Youth and Women’s Activities Director and Editor of ZARJA.] in Article 5.02.
7. Change [seven official members] to four official members in Article 5.04.
8. Change [deserving candidates] to qualified candidates in first sentence of Article 6.05. In same Article, delete [with high scholastic records who are]; also delete [who are in need of financial assistance] ending the second sentence with the word: institute, in the same article. Delete entire third sentence [Each subordinate branch may be granted one scholarship in a given year.] and substitute: Only one scholarship may be granted to a branch each year in Article 6.05.
In the fourth sentence, delete [Scholarship Committee, considering the status of the scholarship fund] and substitute: status of the fund in Article 6.05.
Slovenian heritage to the end of the fourth sentence in Article 7.01.
10. Delete the words: [understand the Slovenian language and) as follows: second sentence of Articles 7.03, 7.12, 7.14, 7.18.
11. Add to the end of the third sentence: finance and investments in Article 7.12.
12. Delete the first three sentences and last sentence, leaving only the fourth sentence as it is stated in Article 7.24.
13. Change Article 9.07 to read as follows:
Article 9.07 (a) A self-sustaining Scholarship Fund
will provide educational scholarships and cover the expenses of the Scholarship Committee. The Fund will be comprised of monies received from contributions, investments and from activities held for the benefit of the Fund.
Article 9.07 (b) A self-sustaining Heritage Fund will provide for promotion of Slovenian culture, heritage and the Slovenian Heritage Museum of the Slovenian Women’s Union.
14. [Special branch meetings shall require the presence of six members at a branch meeting shall constitute a quorum.] in Article 13.02.
15. AdJ Heritage Officer to Historian to read: Historian/Heritage Officer in listing of branch officers in Article 14.01.
16. Change [Historian] to Historian!Heritage Officer in Article 14.17. All By-law recommendations were approved for presentation to Convention. Moved by C. Leskovar, seconded and carried.
Adjournment for lunch at 12:15.
Call to order at 1 p.m. by the President. Two guests were received, namely, Fr. David Stalzer and Robert Holmes, new Curator of the SWU Heritage Museum. Fr. David spoke on the current needs of the Heritage Museum Committee of which he is a member and Mr. Holmes
presented a thorough study of the programs for structuring the Museum along professional lines. This study was accepted for file on the motion of I. Odorizzi, seconded and carried. The need to include new By-laws pertinent ot the Heritage Museum, and its Committee, was unanimously agreed by the Board and the following new By-laws presented by the Heritage Committee:
New Article 15.01
The association shall operate a museum for the purpose of preserving, protecting, and interpreting the story of the Slovenian woman and the Slovenian people in general, as immigrants to and citizens of the United States.
As part of the operational activity, the museum will provide educational services as a means of increasing and enriching public knowledge about the Slovenian story.
New Article 15.02
Overall direction for the museum will be given by an advisory committee, chaired by the National Cultural and Heritage Director. Day to day activities will be directed by a Curator selected to serve by the Committee. Advisory Committee members will be selected and appointed by action of the National Board of Directors.
New Article 15.03
Funding for museum operations will be encouraged by each branch of the association on an annual basis. The monies received will be administered by the National Board of Directors of the Slovenian Women’s Union.
New Article 15.04
The museum Curator will prepare and submit, with the concurrence of the advisory committee, a report and an annual operating budget to the Board of Directors for approval.
The new Articles 15.01 through 15.04 are to be added to those previously recommended to the Convention. Moved by I. Odorizzi, seconded and carried.
Former Article 15.01 will be re-numbered as Article 16.01. Moved by M. Marolt, seconded and carried.
The 21st National Convention on May 16 thru 19, 1991 was opened for discussion. Hostess Branch is No. 73, Warrensville Hgts., Ohio and Convention Chairman, Evelyn Majercik was invited to share with the Board all the convention activities already planned. For early arrivals to Cleveland, they offer an all day tour of Cleveland, free time for shopping at a nearby mall, recreation facilities at the hotel and visit to a well-known race track facility within walking proximity.
Registration will be opened at the Days Inn in North Randall, Ohio, the Convention location, beginning on Thursday, May 16th. There will be a cocktail party from 6 to 9 p.m. State Presidents will meet on Thursday at 2:30 p.m. to discuss state level activities, and become better acquainted with membership needs and desires.
On Friday, May 17th, the official opening of the Convention will take place at 8:30 a.m. with the opening ceremonies, and call to order at 9:00 a.m. The Credential Committee report will be accepted before seating of the Convention assembly. An address by the Keynote Speaker, Prof. Edi Gobetz of Kent State University and Director of the Slovenian Research Center, will follow. The second convention business session will begin after the noon lunch break and adjourn at approximately 6 p.m. A night out is planned by the hostess committee.
On Saturday, May 18th, the convention delegates will assemble for a photograph at 8:00 a.m. and call to order
is scheduled for 9:00 a.m. The morning and afternoon convention business sessions will be scheduled to give enough time for all business to be accomplished in this day. Adjournment is approximately 5:00 p.m. The Convention Banquet will be held Saturday evening at a nearby hall.
Sunday, May 19 is planned to include a special Solemn High Mass at Cleveland’s St. Vitus Church with Most Rev. Edward Pevec, Auxiliary Bishop of Cleveland as the main celebrant, followed by dinner at the church hall. Installation of the newly elected National Officers will take place after dinner and adjournment of the Convention immediately afterward. Cultural programs will be arranged during the free time on Saturday night and Sunday afternoon.
The Board requested that the Zveza video show be given sometime during the Convention and that a Memorial to departed members and appropriate tribute to out-going officers be included in the program. A craft sale for the benefit of the Scholarship Fund is also to be held, and possibly a benefit bake sale. Cash donations for the Scholarship, Heritage and ZARJA funds will also be invited and accepted with appreciation.
Mrs. Majercik extended wannest welcome to all the officers, the delegates and visitors to Cleveland and the suburbs of No. Randall and Bedford, Ohio. She is very grateful for the excellent cooperation of the Cleveland officers and branches and to all the SWU branches that have cooperated with their appeals for ads, prize ticket sales, etc. The Board extended their gratitude to Mrs. Majercik and wishes for a fine Convention. “See you in Cleveland!”
Adjournment at 6:00 p.m.
The meeting reconvened at 8:30 a.m. for the auditing of the ledgers of the National Secretary, Treasurer, President of the Scholarship Fund, Heritage Fund, Publisher’s Fund, by the National Auditors. This being completed, the president called the meeting to order at 10:30 a.m. for discussion of general business.
Representing the First Midwest Trust Co., Ronald Erjavec, Vice-President and Trust Officer and Ms. Joy Gruber, Vice-President, Asset Management Company and the SWU portfolio manager were in attendance. After discussion, on the motion of S. Vukodinovich and seconded, the Board of Directors agreed that the First Midwest Trust Company be authorized to redirect the lower income federal Treasury investments to higher income corporate bonds gradually as they mature in 1991, increasing equity investments to 10% of total. The Board was grateful to the two Trust Officers for taking the time to study a proposal made by the Board on their previous visit to the Bank and to accept some new directives at this time.
The Auditing Committee’s report was given and statement made that all books were found to be in order. Moved by the Committee that the report be accepted, and carried.
Further discussion was held on the financial reports of the finance officers and agreement was unanimous that the financial standing of SWU is in good condition with the additional assets of owning our own building and museum. In this connection it was moved by C. Kermavner, seconded and carried that we should consider purchasing a small computer unit for the Home Office to simplify record keeping, inventory maintenance, etc. for this office.
The president called for the reading of written reports from the State Presidents. They follow:
Reports of the State Presidents PENNSYLVANIA - NEW YORK - WASHINGTON, D.C. MINNESOTA OHIO-MICHIGAN CALIFORNIA — WASHINGTON — OREGON WISCONSIN
Moved by I. Odorizzi, seconded and carried that all reports from State Presidents be accepted. Reports from Colorado-Kansas-Missouri and Illinois-Indiana were not received.
The following §tate Conventions for 1991 were announced at this time: May 12, CO-KS-MO at Br. 92, Gunnison, Colorado; Sept. 1, CA-WA-OR at Br. 100, Fontana, California; Sept. 8, MN at Br. 23, Ely, Minnesota; Sept. 15, WI at Br. 1, Sheboygan, Wisconsin; Sept. 29, at Br. 50, Cleveland, Ohio and Oct. 6, at Br. 22, Bradley, Illinois. No date was announced for PA-NY-DC Convention.
Correspondence was read. A letter signed by members was received from Br. 17, West Allis, WI regarding the frequency for State Conventions. Their wishes expressed in this letter will be forwarded to the Convention.
Jonita Ruth, Home Office Secretary addressed the Board with her thanks for the honor to be given her, as a special guest at the forthcoming Convention, saying: “Zveza is always tops in our lives! First comes family, then comes Zveza!”
Convention Delegates were announced, a list compiled by the Secretarv from the official branch reports.
There will be 40 delegates, representing 40 branches. Other branches did not elect their representative although the By-laws allow for each branch to elect delegates based on the total number of members as of December 31, 1990. Convention Committees will be appointed by the President and Secretary. It will be the duty of every Convention Committee to discuss and take action on relevant topics brought to their attention before or at the convention. The prime concerns are membership growth and member activities. A new convention committee for Fund-raising, to help branches with ideas in this regard, will be added to the list. Each convention committee chairman will receive a directive on what is the purpose of her committee, what is to be accomplished at the convention by that committee, etc. Delegates will be listed in the May issue of ZARJA.
The Board approved the purchase of some electronic equipment for the Heritage Museum. The Board also approved that repairs and general maintenance be done at the Home Office building as needed.
The date for the next Board of Directors meeting was set. It will be a one day meeting July 20, 1991, at the beginning of the new fiscal year and to welcome and instruct any new National Board members. Zveza Day in Lemont, Illinois is the preceding day.
The meeting was adjourned at 4 p.m. with prayer and a wish expressed by the president for everyone’s safe journey home.
Victoria Bobence,	Corinne Leskovar,
National President	Recording Secretary
REPORTS OF OFFICERS
PRESIDENT’S REPORT
Dear National Officers of the Slovenian Women’s Union: As we gather together for these important meetings, I wish to extend sisterly greetings to each of you. May our 3-day assembly be productive and enjoyable. Since our National Convention is scheduled in May. we have a heavy agenda before us.
Attending Regional Conventions in Washington, D.C., Enumclaw, Washington, Cleveland, Ohio, and Tower, Minnesota provided me with new insights as to each branch’s operation; their cooperative offorts and gracious hospitality revealed a deep sense of pride in their Slovenian heritage. Invitations to functions and celebrations by Branch 23, Ely; Branch 35, Aurora; Branch 34, Tower-Soudan; and Branch 38, Chisholm were pleasurable. Due to prior commitments, it was impossible to accept all invitations.
All aspects of our S.W.U. heritage was stressed when attending these meetings. The increase in printing costs for the ZARJA was addressed. My recomendation has been to assess an additional fee of $1 per member yearly, requesting the members to discuss this matter at their branch meetings. Sales of POTS & PANS cookbooks, tote bags, T-shirts, etc. and donations to the Scholarship Fund and the Heritage Funds were also encouraged.
Concentration on plans for the 21st National Convention of the S.W.U. has been on-going this past year. Convention Chairman, Evelyn Majercik has been
working tirelessly with her group so that all will be running smoothly by the time Convention 1991 convenes.
Writing my monthly President’s messages, correspondence, and telephone calls keep me in close touch with our membership. This has been an enjoyable aspect during my term in office.
Membership is extremely important in attaining
S.W.U. growth. There are branches that work so hard; however, there are others in need of attitude adjustments.
Your expertise, time, talents, and cooperation are valued and gratefully appreciated. May God’s unconditional love and direction give us a renewed spirit, an acknowledgement of our limitations, and discernment in our deliberations... and may God bless our great organization, the Slovenian Women’s Union of America!
Victoria “Tory” Bobence
VICE PRESIDENT’S REPORT
“Dobro, prisrčno jutro želim vsem" - Madam President and to all the members of the National Board of Directors and to Evelyn Majercik, Chairman of our 1991 National Convention.
I hope that the meetings we will have will be fruitful and educational, that they will build us into a pillar of strength and unity which we are always in need of, especially now as our twenty-first National Convention approaches.
Throughout the year I try to promote Slovenian Women’s Union through the sale of cookbooks. I have spoken at family get-togethers and social functions, such as plays, to bring the doings of Slovenian Women’s Union into the thoughts of people. These doings include our scholarship program, our heritage museum and the interesting articles in ZARJA.
As for myself, 1 try to write about our customs and our ancestors and submit these writings to ZARJA-hoping that thru these articles a little spark of interest in S.W.U. will result. We, S.W.U. officers, members, have to take the first step and if we make it interesting enough, the people will follow. The future is bright, we have to make it even brighter. Let us stand in unity, for in unity there is strength.
St. Catherine, patron for a healthy mind, pray for us and for the Slovenian Women’s Union of America.
Bog nas čuvaj, tudi!
Cirila Kermavner
SECRETARY’S REPORT
Dober Dan! Wouldn’t it be a pleasant surprise if I would start my report and state that we had an exceptional year — the membership increased, we have a substantial reserve, and so forth. Sorry, but it is not so.
Again I must report the membership decreased by 135 and our financial gain was only $3,131. 1 cannot advise you how to reverse the trend in falling membership, but
1	must relate our financial condition.
During the year 1990 our Income decreased $3,750 compared with 1989, a decrease of $4,008 in Interest and Dividend income. Disbursements for the year increased $5,808 due primary to the $2,883 increase in officers travel expense and $ 1,071 increase in bank investment fees and a $1,925 in ZARJA publication.
As you know the Illinois Insurance Department regulations state we can use only 65% of the assessment premium to cover operating costs (excluding ZARJA costs). We again violated this regulation this year since our operating expenses (including death benefits) were $400 more than our total assessments collected.
What can we expect in the future? In 1990 Interest and Dividend income was 47% of the total income. With current lower interest rates, our Income from this source will be reduced approximately $6,000.
CONVENTION 1995 — Currently to date (February 28) we have $19,764 in the Convention Fund from the sale of cookbooks. Our anticipated expenses for the 1991 Convention are $22,000 (assuming we pay a maximum 3 days per diems @ $50 per day and actual transportation expense). This would reguire at least $2,000 from SWU expenses, where in the past two Conventions none was paid from Slovenian Women’s Union. This raises the “big” question. What will we do for the 1995 Convention? We will not have a reserve to begin with ($6,200 left over after the 1987 Convention) and we have no cookbooks to sell. Furthermore, we should carefully revise articles 4.10 and 4.14 before the coming Convention so we can limit or reduce our expenses for the 1995 Convention. In my letter to Tory Bobence on July 14, 1990, I explained that situation and also gave her my suggestions.
DIRECT BILLING — As reported at previous meetings, I have been using “Direct Billing” for years, especially for members that dropped from various branches
and placed into our office branch no. 30. In addition to branch 30, there are five branches on Direct Billing. Currently there are approximately 200 members that I bill directly. I have absorbed these extra duties with all other correspondence.
HERITAGE MUSEUM — Analyzing the financial condition of our organization, we are in no position to finance any expansion or modification of the Heritage Museum. The Museum should be self-supporting. I recommend that they should not make plans before making a feasibility study of future source of income. The museum financing report for the year 1990 shows a deficit of $2,305.
MEMBERSHIP — I checked our 90-plus members and found 200 such members. Those who are 100 years and over number 14. They are:
Anna Ahacich (2)	—	104
Anna Jurančič (5)	—	103
Mary Komidar (10)	—	103
Frances Setina (28)	—	103
MaryRosenberger(74)	—	103
Anna Primožič (25)	—	101
Frances Strojan (56)	—	101
Mary Tisel (12)	—100
Vica Curkov (13)	—	100
Joseph. Schlossar( 17)	—	100
Victoria Berglas (25)	—	100
Mary Strand (32)	—	100
Mary Evanic (40)	—	100
Katarina Fush (40)	—	100
CAMPAIGN — Our past membership campaigns were dedicated to our president Tory Bobence, namely, Tory’s Garden, Tory’s Bouquet, Tory’s Greenhouse and Till Tory’s Garden. In the four campaigns one campaign worker is outstanding in her field enrolling a total of 64 members. She is entitled to a week at the National President’s summer resort in Ely, MN. Congratulations! to Jonita Ruth. It would be grand if Zveza had a few more workers like Jonita.
My sincere thanks to everyone for their dedication to Zveza. God bless our future!
Olga Ancel
TREASURER’S REPORT
Madam President and Members of the National Board:
It is my sincere wish that at this meeting, we will be able to establish a firm, successful and productive schedule in 1991. Thinking thoughts of a New Year brings hopes of new faces, new ideas and many new members.
As you know, money has been very tight, and we have been able to show only a gain of $3,130.61 for the year 1990. At this time, I would urge that we show wisdom and prudence as to how we allocate funds during the coming year. The situation in the Mid-East has caused additional decisions to be made in our investments. We have been assured by our investment officers that caution is being used, and they have assured us that we should be comfortable in that our portfolio is well positioned for the long term and is designed to provide attractive and productive returns over the long term.
We are happy to report that our cookbook fund which covers our convention costs is adequate. We are estimating the amount will cover expenses for this years' convetion, and we must then find new ways and means to cover our next convention and future conventions. Prior years always
indicated an available balance for this purpose, however, we do not believe there will be any funds available after this convention. Therefore, we need the full support of all our members in this connection. Any and all suggestions will be taken into consideration.
It is not necessary for me to tell you again that costs have increased in every facet of living. I urge that we discipline our spending through the use of practical and skilfull use of our funds.
With the help of Our Lord and Our Lady, we trust that we will success in our endeavors.
Respectfully submitted, Sylvia Vukodinovich
FINANCIAL REPORT January 1 to December 31, 1990 FINANČNO POROČILO 1. januarja do 31. decembra 1990
Income-Dohodki:
Assessments ............................ $60,722.55
Interest from bonds...................... 56,324.90
Interest from checking and savings.......... 800.48
Rental ................................... 3,600.00
ASSETS
Checking and savings accounts ................. $12,817.11
Investments in bonds .......................... 738,836.14
Furniture and fixtures ...................n... 1,902.58
Real estate .................................... 59,991.93
Song books and Slovenia to America .............. 1,821.00
$815,368.76
AUDIT REPORT
The books of the Secretary, the Treasurer, the Scholarship Committee and ZARJA were audited and found to be in good and proper order. The Heritage Report was also reviewed.
Our visit to the bank was instructive and our account was explained in detail.
Respectfully submitted:
March 20, 1991
Mary Muller, 2nd Auditor Marion M. Marolt, 3rd Auditor
$121,447.93
Expenses-Stroski:
Death Claims - 153 .......................... $20,550.00
Salaries ..................................... 20,950.00
Administrative, travel, perdiems of officers
................................................. 11,545.51
FICA - Social Security ........................ 1,600.19
Unemployment tax ................................ 273.59
Net loss on sale of securities .................. 241.41
Department of Insurance .......................... 25.00
Real estate tax ............................... 1,630.80
ZARJA - THE DAWN:
Printing (less $502 donations)	34,660.00
Postage	5,512.53	40,172.53
Electricity, gas and water .................... 2,596.86
Advertising, printing and stationery .......... 2,197.76
Postage and telephone ......................... 1,928.77
Depreciation - rent ........................... 3,900.00
Insurance and officer bonding ................. 1,282.00
Maintenance ..................................... 701.73
Secretary, Campaign and 50-yr Awards .......... 1,410.84
Bowling and Junior Awards ..................... 119.00
Investment and bank service fees .............. 5,922.43
Monthly bank service charges .................... 212.90
Computer service—State annual reports ........... 350.00
Donations:
Scholarship memoriams	125.00
II	Fraternal Congress (inc Scholar) 75.00 21st Convention - Ad	100.00
Bishop Baraga Association	100.00	400.00
Miscellaneous ................................... 306.00
$118,317.32
Gain for the Year ............................... $3,130.61
Balance December 31, 1989 ...................... 812,238.15
Balance December 31, 1990 ..................... $815,368.76
COOKBOOKS — CONVENTION FUND Report of Income and Disbursements January 1 to December 31, 1990
Cash Balance January 1, 1990 ........... $ 6,731.18
Income:
Cookbook Sales ............. $10,952.71
Interest earned ................ 544.87
Total income— 1990 ................... 11,497.58
Cash Balance December 31, 1990 .......... $18,228.76
Add: Advance for Convention Deposit ....... 3,460.40
Total Net Worth convention Fund
December 31, 1990 .................. $21,689.16
Memo: Cookbooks sold
January and February 1991 .......... $ 1,535.50
SCHOLARSHIP FUND REPORT
BALANCE: January 1, 1990 ...................
RECEIPTS:
Contributions: .......................
Interest:
Anchor Savings Checking Account: Certificate No. 02-03226127 Certificate No. 02-04064945
$20,620.90
$4,695.00
$ 129.67 1,068.22 292.39
1.490.28
6.165.28
TOTAL ........................................ $26,786.18
DISBURSEMENTS: Scholarship Winners: Michael Bokausek Kim Shega Brent Kalar Theresa Rozman James Braidic John Zgonc
5 500.00
500.00
500.00
500.00
500.00 1,000.00
Carrie Pearson	500.00
Diana Fir	500.00
Gina Giuffre	500.00
Tricia Russ	500.00
Scholarship Non-Winners ($50.00 each):
Lance Dobersek, Jr., Kelly Kozar, Carol Lekatz, Jeffrey Martyonowicz, Amy Turk, Kathy Šebenik, and Teresa Yapel.
Hermine Dicke, annual stipend	600.00
Operating expenses	100.00
Service charge	4.00
Printed checks	9.50
TOTAL: .........<................................. $6,563.50
BALANCE: January 1, 1991 ........................ $20,222.68
January 1, 1990	$20,620.90
January 1, 1991	20,222.68
Decrease	398.22
Scholarship Fund Assets, January 1, 1991:
Certificate: 02-03226127	$15,332.08
Certificate: 02-04064945	3,149.03
Anchor Savings Checking Account	1,741.57
TOTAL	$20,222.68
Hermine Dicke
Scholarship Director
2ND AUDITOR REPORT
Greetings to all and best wishes for a productive meeting.
1 was able to attend the Wisconsin State Day and the sixtieth anniversary Branch No. 43 in September and 1 enjoyed it very much. Many subjects were discussed and good reports came from members, especially Branch No. 102 in Willard. 1 hope some of these ladies are delegates to our convention and express their thoughts and desires.
We need more open discussion on some issues. There is too much “po starem”; we need promotional ideas to stay in business, as it were. We must encourage members to inovate ways to stimulate new memberships. One need is for younger members to take the helm — perhaps to put new life into S.W.U.
I am looking forward to working with the Board, hopefully, we can find solutions to our quests.
Sincerely, Mary Muller
3RD AUDITOR REPORT
National Officers of the Slovenian Women’s Union of America:
My sincerest greetings are extended to all gathered here today for the annual meeting and auditing of the financial records of the organization. The books and records of the National Secretary, Treasurer, Zarja Magazine, and Scholarship Fund with the investments and accounts at the First Midwest Trust Co. were all examined. The National Auditing Board has concluded that all the financial records at the office and bank of the SWU are in satisfactory order.
It was a great pleasure for me to attend the Wisconsin Regional Convention hosted by Branch #43 here in Milwaukee, WI. I know these conventions are important for the organization to grow. Due to the fact that many members do not take the time and effort to attend as they should, perhaps the convention should be held every 2 years. I sincerely wish that more members would participate in these affairs. Dear Members: please remember that this is your organization and we do need more new ideas for us to develop and expand to greater achievements.
My best wishes are also extended to all the officers for their untiring work in promoting the organization.
May our deliberations today	be	for the	betterment of
the SWU and members, as we get ready for the	National
Convention in May.
May the good Lord bestow upon all of us His choicest blessings for a healthy and prosperous year.
Marion M. Marolt
HERITAGE MUSEUM FINANCIAL REPORT - Year of 1990
Income:
Memoriams:
Emma Planinšek, Joliet, IL
Home Office  ............................. $25.00
Branch No. 20 Joliet ...................... 20.00
Friends .................................. 435.00
Pauline Adamic, Detroit, MI
A1 and Dorothy Bemick, Anthony Hometz, Rosemarie Hostnik, Audrey Krulic,
Robert and Louise Maisel, Mary Pavlin,
William and Anne Pobanz, Norren and
Yola Roel and John Smaltz .................... 185.00
Ernest Smrekar, Joliet, IL ..................... 105.00
Eric Kovacic, Washington, D.C.
Home Office .................................... 25.00
Irene Odorizzi ................................ 10.00
Olga Ancel and Evelyn Majercik ................ 10.00
Frances Stonitch, Joliet, IL
Rudolph-Mildred Pucel Family, Joliet, IL . 25.00 Fred-Jonita Ruth Family, Joliet, IL ........... 15.00
Members branch no 13, San Francisco, CA Mary Bluth, Helen Jelenich and Dragica Tomich ................................... 30.00
Johanna Janezic, Rockdale, IL
from her family-Gale, Janezic, Brisco .... 15.00
Joseph Travnik, Warrensville Hts., OH
Kay and Peter Yuratovac ....................... 10.00
Alouise Epley ................................... 5.00
Mary Spudich, Warrensville Hts., OH
Kay and Peter Yuratovac ......................... 5.00
Alouise Epley ................................... 5.00
Rose Zbasnik, Warrensville Hts, OH
Branch no 73 .................................. 10.00
Catherine Tomac, Joliet, IL
Braneh no 20 .................................... 5.00
Mary Majercik, Warrensville Hts, OH
Antoinette Janders .............................. 5.00
Dr. Carl Gregorich, Joliet, 1L
Mildred-Rudolph Pucel ......................... 5.00
Margaret Polniaszek, Joliet, IL
Mildred-Rudolph Pucel ......................... 5.00
Donations:
Branch No. 2, Chicago, IL ...................... 500.00
American Slovenian Catholic Union .............. 100.00
Branch No. 50. Cleveland. OH .................... 25.00
Branch No. 103. Washington. DC .................. 10.00
Illinois Heritage Association tour visit ........ 26.00
Pat Drenton, FT Worth. TX ....................... 12.60
Sold articles .................................... 775.40
Christmas card sales ............................. 350.55
Easter card sales ................................. 74.25
Checking account interest ........................ 128.63
Total Income ...................................... 2,957.43
Expenses:
Curators (John $1400 - Bob $707) ............. 2.118.00
Caps and tote bags ............................... 555.52
Aprons (It's in Every Slovenian) ............... 1.112.40
Ads: SWU and KSKJ Conventions .................... 100.00
Dues:	American Slovenian Polka Fund ............... 12.00
Illinois Historical Society ................. 30.00
Slovenian American Heritage Fund	..... 25.00
Subscription SLOVENIJA magazine ................... 15.00
Christmas card expense ...........................  85.00
Postage, telephone, printing ..................... 120.93
Supplies including artifacts storage boxes	... 1,088.48
Total Expenses .................................... 5,262.33
Net loss for year ............................... (2,304.90)
Balance January 1, 1990 (checking account) .. 4,107.17
Balance December 31. 1990
(checking account) ........................... 1.802.27
Money Market ...................................... 6,012.58
Interest ............................................ 347.14
Money Market December 31. 1990 .................... 6,359.72
Total Net Worth December 31. 1990 ................ $8.161.99
Olga Ancel, Nat'I Secretary
HERITAGE REPORT
Greetings to the members of the National Board.
In spring of 1990, we were happy to announce and meet the recently hired, part-time director of the Museum, John Dennison. John was well-liked by the museum volunteers but ended his brief association with us in Fall of 1990. Mr. Dennison's approaching marriage obliged him to seek fulltime employment and his association with the Slovenian Museum came to an end before one year was completed.
Subsequently. I located and submitted three names of available museum professionals who might be interested in the position. The Joliet volunteers selected Mr. Robert Holmes, a recently retired museum professional, who has
been with the museum since being hired in Fall.
Mr. Holmes' credentials are outstanding and he has tackled the position of museum director with vigor, enthusiasm and much creativity. Because of his many years of experience. Bob "knows the ropes" and has been instrumental in securing funds to have a six-fold brochure of our Slovenian Museum printed by the National Park Service. Bob is researching our heritage and preparing the photos and copy for the brochure which will cost the Park Service $1500.00 and be available by summer of 1991. This grant probably covers the cost of Bob's salary thus far.
Another of Bob's accomplishments was to have located a company capable of transferring the Golden Times slide show to videotape, free of charge. Mr. Holmes has recommended the purchase of suitable equipment (VCR and TV) to show the video. Transference of the slides to Video tape was accomplished upon the suggestion of the local heritage committee.
Bob works one day a week and is paid by the hour. He also works with any volunteers that may decide to spend a few hours on various museum projects. Bob feels that our group has a story to tell and that it can be done through this museum. 1 have asked Mr. Holmes to present an overview of his work and his plans for the development of the museum after my report. Father David Stalzer, a long-time advocate of Slovenian Heritage, will also present his view of the Slovenian women's mission in preserving this heritage.
At the 1990. National Board meeting I proposed the printing and sale of two books: a coloring book based on our Slovenian Heritage and a historical book of our organization compiled from information collected from 35 branches thus far. Both of these projects had to be postponed for two reasons: first, lack of funds needed to secure the services of qualified individuals to prepare the copy or the pictures from the information collected and secondly, the printing of both books.
Branches that contributed to the historical book about the SWU:
5,	10,	13.	14, 16, 17, 20.	22, 23, 24,	32,	35,	36,
38.	39.	40,	47,	52. 55, 57, 68,	73, 74, 79,	81.	86,	89,
91, 92.	95,	96,	100. 102, 103. TOTAL 35.
I have	continued to write	the IMMIGRANT	and
SECOND GENERATION stories for the ZARJA along with a HERITAGE NEWS AND VIEWS column. I am told the stories are interesting reading. I continue to request the names of individuals who can contribute Immigrant or the Next Generation stories so that the column may continue. 1 would especially like to take this opportunity to commend Jonita Ruth who has arranged interviews with many Joliet residents and who has helped with the packing and posting of photos to accompany the stories. My appreciation, Jonita.
The museum continues to sell tee shirts, aprons, key chains, Christmas decorations, books, cards, and caps for the benefit of heritage.
Donations to the Heritage Fund continue be made however, much more is needed to accomplish our goals. We encourage branches to have special projects to raise money that can be sent to our heritage fund.
We wish to commend all volunteers who donated time and energy at the museum for the past year especially Molly Grergorich. Helen Plut, Helen Horwath, Mildred Pucel, Ann Dragovan, Margaret Dusa, Lucille Dragovan
and request that more members spend a few hours a week helping Boh Holmes with our museum story.
A special note of appreciation to all the many branches who submitted information for the historical book about our beloved SWU. We are still hoping to achieve our goal.
Respectfully submitted, Irene M. Odorizzi
SCHOLARSHIP REPORT
Dear S.W.U. Board Members:
Greetings and best wishes for a productive meeting which is the final board meeting before the National Convention in. May.
This has been a good year for the Scholarship Program. 304 contributions have been received netting $4,675 compared to $2,948 in 1989 and $2,962 in 1988. Five Sl,00 scholarships are again offered in 1991.
To date, eighteen (18) applications for the scholarships have been received, one of which, will be awarded to honor the memories of Frank and Mary Ermenc, Milwaukee. WI. w'ho as dedicated believers and generous supporters of education, donated $2.110 to our Scholarship Fund from 1966 to 1986.
The POTS AND PANS column continues to be a challenge. Please send me your favorite recipes which are always the ones most appreciated.
1 will continue to write the POTS AND PANS column and update the POTS AND PANS cookbook. However. I don’t feel that I can continue as Director of the Scholarship Program for which 1 began as secretary in 1965, therefore, 1 am submitting my resignation from this position.
Sincerely.
Hermine Dicke
EDITOR’S REPORT
My sincere greetings to you all. The latest project, and one that should interest us from the financial standpoint, is the appeal for funds to help with the publication costs for ZARJA. As you see, the Publisher's Fund is helpful and with it we are able to make a nice contribution to the printing costs. But, member involvement is crucial and we hope that the "Keep the connection" fund drive will awaken in our members some sense of cooperation and generosity. So far approximately $1200 has been received. As you have seen by the Publisher’s Fund report, there is a substantial amount of money coming in for ads and incidental donations. We are grateful that with this money we can help with the publishing costs, at least a little.
We have enjoyed the special features on the Environment, on the canonization proceedings for Bishop Baraga and the Washington tour, the trip to Ellis Island, and all the news on the forthcoming National Convention. Our regular columnists are remarkable. Each month they come up with interesting ideas and suggestions. We all enjoy Pots and Pans, the Immigrant, Learning Slovenian, and in the Slovenian section. Naša Slovenska Dediščina. We are approaching the month of May and its interesting history of our mothers/women who have done so much for us.
1 wish to make special recognition of all the reporters who have brought us branch news and are still very much involved in their branch activities. To each and everyone, my sincere thanks.
Again and again, my attention is drawn to the fact that our Zveza is an organization of family members. On the National Board we are four daughters of pioneer Zveza mothers, Prisland, Erjevec, Novak. Floryan. This is the pattern of our Slovenian Women's Union existence. Many, many such combinations are found in our branches, where mother or grandmother was the example and dutiful daughters are carrying on. I would say that we are sensitive and appreciative of the energy, effort, and most of all love, that our mothers gave for this organization, and are trying to keep their faith in our own hearts.
As a tribute to my mother whose 20th anniversary of death will be observed in just a few weeks, April 6th, I think I would like to comment in this report as if she were here, sitting in my chair, as a present day Board Member.
First of all, she would love everyone here and show respect to all. She might listen more graciously to everyone's chatter than I do. Mother would see in the reports on our financial standing, that there is need for more activity, so that more prospective members could be attracted into our ranks. She would say, "Let’s get organizing! We need to show what we are!"
Mother would undertake any task she thought would help in these organized activities. In the present world sitiation, especially as it is in her homeland, Slovenia, she would be very enthusiastic and suggest a group tour there this summer, or perhaps, travel of some kind by our members. "Show the SWU banner — show them that we are here!” she would say.
Mother would listen attentively to what her coworkers had to say, and bring a lot of enthusiasm into the group. No one could ever say that she held back if an idea struck her. First and foremost, she would try to make us realize that if we are not enthusiastic about our goals, we will never find ways and means to activate others, and certainly never find ways of achieving them.
And, so, with all this in mind. I would like to present to each Board Member here a short questionnaire, which 1 ask you to answer to the best of your ability. Your answers might be the key to what our mothers knew and acted upon.
In our 65th year •— anniversary — we are planning the 21st National Convention where we will have the opportunity to solidify our future and make working for it, a "poem” of joy and love.
I greet you with this wish and gratitude and confidence.
Corinne Leskovar
STATE PRESIDENT’S REPORT Western States
Greetings from Sunny and Dry California!
Another year has passed and I am pleased to report a Western State Convention was held in the state of Washington hosted by Branch #79. The gracious ladies, led by Mary Bratovich, arranged a beautiful polka mass followed by brunch and meeting.
Tory Bobence, ourNational President, Mary Lou Vidergar, our delegate from Branch #100 in Fontana, and I attended this event. Branches #13 of San Francisco and #45 from Portland, Oregon were not represented. An informative talk by our National President presented needs and goals of our Slovenian Women’s Union.
The Washington branch agreed to hold a Western States Convention once every three years as had the Fon-
tana branch and the third year I will try to meet with San Francisco branch.
This year, 1991, the Western Sates Convention will be held here in Fontana. We would be honored to have a national officer attend and at this time I am extending an invitation from Branch #100.
I will be contacting our branches this week and hopefully we will have many members attend. Our last branch meeting was well attended. I hope this trend continues. Our branch has had successful money raisers enabling us to purchase a VCR for the Slovene Rest Home in Fontana. We are now planning for the convention we will host September 1, 1991.
My sincere best wishes and support to all National Board members.
Rosemary Mlakar
Minnesota
The year of 1990 was not a very productive one for me. Thought that 1 would get so much done and would visit many of my branches. But that was not to be, what with deaths in the family and sickness of my husband and myself. I did get to one branch meeting in Biwabik. Meeting with the ladies was a great pleasure. I was invited to so many other branch meetings that I could not get to. Possibly this year will be better. The state convention was held in Tower, MN. Sept. 9, 1990. The meeting took place and many things were discussed. It was brought up about having Slovenian classes being taught. There are ladies looking into it. Jane Yadlosky, Jean Korsman and Ann Orazem. They will report on their findings in April. We had a beautiful mass and many ethnic songs were sung. The dinner was great. The guest speaker was Hermine Dicke, she talked about past years of the Slovenian Women's Union. After closing with prayer, many prizes were drawn. Our next State Convention will be held in Ely, MN. Sept. 8, 1991. Hope to see you all there.
Your State President Emily Skull
Ohio-Michigan
Dear Pres. Tory, all officers and Father Athanasius:
My greetings to you at this annual meeting!
Our Ohio-Miochigan Regional Convention held on Sept. 30th, 1990 was successful. I'd like to express my "Sincere Thanks” to everyone who supported it in any way.
The Mass took place, 10 a.m. at St. Mary’s Church in Collinwood, celebrated by our beloved Pastor, Rev. John Kumse. Slovenian hymns sung by the choir were touching and beautiful. Our thanks to the choir, the church attendance was about 150 members, including Br. 50's Marie Prisland Cadets and Br. 32’s Honor Guards.
Following the Mass, a luncheon was served in the school cafeteria. Father Kumse congratulated our group, wishing us success and growth. Grace was said with his blessing.
At 12:30 p.m. our meeting opened with the Marie Prisland Cadets and Honor Guards reciting the Pledge of Allegiance followed by opening prayer. Introduced officers of the board and also our lovely, friendly, Nat'l. President Tory Bobence from Ely, Minn. We were very honored to have her with us. Next was our Nat’l. Vice Pres. Cirila Kermaver and also Evelyn Majercik. Chairlady of our 1991 Nat'l. Convention.
Minutes read from the last state convention held Sept. 1989 by our Combined Branch Secretary, Josephine Comenshek. Motion to accept minutes made by Anne Ryavec and seconded by Dorothyann Winter. Motion carried.
There were 10 out of a possible 17 branches present. Sorry the more distant ones were unable to attend.
The branch reports were given by either an officer or member. Each was just a little bit different, but interesting. Hope all of you heard some very good and different ideas.
At this time our Nat’l. Pres., Tory was called upon to give us a very informative talk on our S.W.U. organization, its culture and heritage. She also talked on the upcoming Nat’l. Convention which will be held in Cleveland, Ohio.
Nat'l. Vice Pres., Cirila Kermavner gave a good speech — precise and right to the point, in Slovenian.
Evelyn Majercik explained how far along the Convention plans are. There will be 2 tours of the City of Cleveland for the delegates, otherwise all meetings and activities will take place at the Days Inn Party Center located in North Randall, Ohio. The Mass will be at our beautiful and spacious St. Vitus Church on Glass Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio.
At each of these Regional Conventions my plea to everyone is: "Please try a little harder to obtain new members.” Keep promoting and selling our beautiful cookbook, the “Pots and Pans”. ZARJA reporters — keep sending in those articles, as our members do look forward to all the interesting reading, be it in Slovenian or English. It would be nice to have more articles, if possible, in Slovenian too. I’m sure our beloved Editor, Corinne is always happy to receive lots of articles; so ladies, please remember to send your articles in on time — reminder that deadline is the 1st to the 5th of each month, but sooner the better is also good.
Our "Memoriam” for all deceased members from the branches, especially our Founder, Marie Prisland, took place at this time with the Marie Prisland Cadets of Br. 50 along with the Honor Guards from Br. 32 officiating. Each cadet and honor guard were given lighted candles. Prayers were said in their behalf for all the good deeds they did while amongst us, naming only a few: Mary Otonichar, Toni Turek, Frances Seitz, Mary Bostian and Sophie Magayna. May The Perpetual Light Shine Upon Them and May They Rest In Peace.
Last but not least, I want to "Sincerely Thank" the three branches: Br. 73 Warrensville Hts.; Br. 47 Garfield Hts., and Br. 42 Maple Heights that hosted this Regional Convention. Kay Yuratovac was in charge of the kitchen assisted by the ladies from these three branches. I peeked in and was very pleased to see how smoothly everyone worked together preparing the food for us. Everything was very good and there were many beautiful prizes also that the lucky ladies went home with. "Thanks to everyone who attended."
Everyone was surprised to see Mary Lou Prhne, a most dedicated member of Br. 42 Maple Hts., at this convention. Mary Lou resides in Englewood, Fla. — wouldn’t it be nice, Mary Lou, to organize a branch down there!?
Meeting adjourned at 2:10 p.m. with closing prayer and the singing of Angelsko Češčenje.
Next Ohio-Michigan Regional Convention will be Sunday, Sept. 29th, 1991. Please mark your calendars now.
Aside from our Ohio-Michigan Regional meetings, I have kept in touch with 17 branches either by phone or letters. I've attended their meetings, special anniversaries, Mother-of-the-Year and Christmas celebrations.
After the death of Sophie Magayna, I had 2 years of her unexpired term, and 2 terms of 4 years each of my own.
Our next Regional meeting will be held Sept. 29th, 1991 in conjunction with Branch #50’s — 60th Anniversary. At this time a new President will have to be elected. 1 enjoyed being Regional President for 10 years. Also I am in my 21st year as President of Branch; #50.
So	— I have been a very busy lady!
I'm happy to see that our National Convention will take place in Cleveland this year. We sure will try to make it nice and comfortable for everyone who plans on attending. We also hope to have a successful one.
Thank you very much.
Respectfully submitted, Ann J. Tercek
PA-NY-DC
My best wishes to the National Officers at this Board of Directors meeting.
I sincerely hope that you will have a very successful and productive meeting.
Our last State Convention was held on May 6, 1990 and was hosted by Br. #103 of Washington, D.C. We had five branches represented — Br. #26 Pittsburgh, Pa. Br. #27 N. Braddock, Pa.; Br. #74 Ambridge, Pa. Br. #91 Oakmont, Pa.; Br. #103 Washington, D.C.
We were honored to have our National Pres. Victoria Bobence as the guest speaker. She spoke of the need for new members, of our Scholarship program. Pots and Pans cookbook sales, the Heritage Museum and the upcoming National Convention to be held in Cleveland, Ohio in May 1991.
The members of Br. #103, their Pres. Freda Michelitch and Bernadette Kovacic who is Co-Director of Youth and Women's Activities are to be complimented for a job well done.
It was decided to forego having our State Convention in the Spring of 1991 in lieu of the National Convention which will be in May 1991 in Cleveland, Ohio.
In closing, I send my sincerest wishes to all and hope to see you in Cleveland.
God Bless you all Jennie Flisek
Branch #12 — They have great attendance at all of their meetings and play their favorite game after the meeting and plenty of goodies are served after the meeting which are donated by the members. They honored their Mother of the Year in May. They had a good attendance at the State Convention. They had a picnic for Junior and Senior members during the summer. Mass for living and deceased members, visit Nursing Homes at Easter time. Sent Christmas greetings to all in Nursing Homes. They also had a Christmas Party and dinner. They also have a card party each year.
Branch #17 — A Valentine Party was held after the February meeting with treats brought by our members. In May the Mother of the Year was honored with a luncheon at Kegel's Inn. Also a Mass for living and deceased members. Many members attended the State Convention in September. We held a fund raiser in October followed by some goodies. At Christmas time we had a party and gift exchange and also distribution of the children's gifts. We are also involved in Civic Affairs such as USEPH Organization.
Branch #43 — There was Mass for deceased and living members followed by breakfast. Mother of the Year luncheon was held in May. A card party was held in May. A card party was held in November and at Christmas time there was a party and gift exchange. In September Branch #43 hosted the State Convention and did a fine job. They also play their favorite game after their meetings.
Branch #102 — In February they have a Valentine Party. October is Strudel Day which is a big success. Five members attended the State Convention in Milwaukee. They are discussing their 50th Anniversary which will be held this year. They also had a Hunter’s Bake sale in November. They also donated $25.00 toward an addition to a Chapel Room at Memorial Nursing Home and Hospital . A Bake Sale was held on Palm Sunday after the Masses. In May a plant sale was held. In July a Potluck with music and singing and visiting was held. December was their Christmas Party and gift exchange and played their favorite game and visited and ended with Potluck lunch.
I did get to visit some of the Branches in Wisconsin. It is great to see and meet our other members. I am looking forward to the National Convention to be held in May and also to our State Convention which will be hosted by Branch #1 in Sheboygan on September 15, 1991. I hope to see many of our members at each of these conventions.
Good luck at your meeting.
Joan Yaklich
WISCONSIN
I would like to take this opportunity to wish the National Board and all other SWU members a very Happy Easter. I hope you have a successful Board meeting and I hope all the plans are working out well for the National Convention in Cleveland.
Our Branches in Wisconsin have been busy.
Branch #1 — In May Mother of the Year celebration, Mass for deceased and living members, a bake sale was held which was a big success. In December they had a Christmas party and went out to dinner. Also a card party was held during the year. Three of their members attended the State Convention in September in Milwaukee. They also visit the homebound and Nursing Homes at Christmas time.
Success
With
Unity
Membership Campaign is now on!
“TILL TORY’S GARDEN” MEMBERSHIP CAMPAIGN
April 1, 1990 to March 31, 1991
Of our 65 branches, thirty-five participated for a total of 154 members signing up new “flowers” for Tory, the tilling done by 82 members. This was made up of 27 Class A including 7 Junior transferees, 68 Class B including 22 Junior transferees and 59 Juniors. Cash awards mailed amounted to $ 195.50.
Our membership campaigns dedicated to National President Victoria Bo-bence were held in four phases commencing April I, 1987. The four phases were titled:
Tory’s Garden during which 153 were enrolled
Tory’s Bouquet - 224 members
Tory’s Greenhouse - 143 members and
Till Tory’s Garden “grew" 154 members for a grand total of 674.
The high-ranking gardener was Jonita Ruth of Joliet (20) for a total of 70 members. To all the campaign workers-gardeners, a most sincere thank you is extended for beautifying our membership roster and enriching Tory’s membership campaigns. God bless you all!
Olga Ancel, Nat’I Sec’y.
TOP BRANCHES
20, Joliet, IL	29
35, Aurora, MN	14
14, Euclid, OH	10
30, Home Office	10
2, Chicago, IL	7
33, Duluth, MN	6
34, Soudan-Tower, MN	6
38, Chisholm. MN	6
73, Warrensville Hts, OH	6
5, Indianapolis, IN	5
16, South Chicago, IL	5
50, Cleveland, OH	5
13, San Francisco, CA	4
23, Ely, MN	4
42, Maple Heights, OH	4
24, LaSalle, IL	3
31, Gilbert, MN	3
102, Willard, WI	3
3,	Pueblo, CO	2
6,	Barberton, OH	2
10, Cleveland, OH	2
17,	West Allis, WI	2
67,	Bessemer, PA	2
100, Fontana, CA	2
105, Detroit, MI	2
1, Sheboygan, WI	I
26, Pittsburgh, PA	1
39, Biwabik, MN	1
40, Lorain, OH	1
43, Milwaukee, WI
68,	Fairport Harbor. OH 71, Strabane, PA 79, Enumclaw, WA 95, South Chicago, IL
103,	Washington, D.C.
CAMPAIGN WORKERS
Jonita Ruth (20)	24
Olga Ancel (20)	5
Pauline Korpela (35)	5
Gladys Buck (16)	4
Maria Bradach (35)	4
Frances Verant (38)	4
Mary Frances Mohr (5)	3
Frances Prijatel (14)	3
Ardis Gregorash (20)	3
Phyllis Kukar (31)	3
Dorothy Jamnick (35)	3
Marjorie Church (42)	3
Alouise Epley (73)	3
Evelyn Majercik (73)	3
Cynthia Conte (2)	2
Frances Simonich (3)	2
Linda Lambright (5)	2
Faye Moro (10)	2
Louise Petrusich (13)
Mary Louise Globokar (14) Colette Imperl (17) Rosemarie Buckner (23) Betty Stack (24)
Emily Skull (33)
Delores Svitek (33) Angeline Mustonen (34) Mary Percic (67)
Rosemary Mlaker (100) Mary Staut (102)
Dorothy Brezonik (I) Rosemary Litwin (2)
Gloria Nusko (2)
Dolores Puhek (2) Genevieve Scianna (2)
Luba Troha (2)
Jo Ellen Markiewicz (5) Josephine Turk (5)
Marie Fir (13)
Marjorie Schleiger (13) Diane Bregant (14)
Ruth Korelc (14)
Alice Kuhar (14)
Pat Stanic (14)
Alma Tercek (14)
Marge Prebil (16)
Lynette Johnson (20) Dorothy Mahan (20)
Ann Marie Mulvey (20)
Mae Rief (20)
Mary Jane Rougeau (20) Jenny Lou Skul (20)
Mary Ann Lekatz (23)
Mary Niemi (23)
Jane Greenwald (24)
Mary Kabala (26)
Dorothy Swintosky (30) Dorothy Ryklak (33)
Suntina Spehar (33)
Theresa Berg (34)
Victoria Bobence (34) Justine Dragovan (34) Terese Yapel (34)
Mary Nosan (35)
Anne Orazem (35)
Helen Sega (38)
Frances Zalec (38)
Mary Suhadolc (39)
Helen Sekular (40)
Mary Gruden (42)
Rose Kraemer (43)
Bonnie Blatnik (50)
Mary Blatnik (50)
Ruth Kolenc (50)
Josephine Trunk (50) Barbara Zgonc (50)
Mary Miklavčič (68)
Rose Germovsek (71) Margaret Addicott (79) Helen Ciechonski (95)
Mary Djubenski (102)
Mary Lou Terselic (103) Patricia Adamic (105)
Helen Grasser (105)
ANNA HODNIK/ANITA VOVK:
VOCABULARY
Learn Slovenian
The May issue of ZARJA is one of my favorites because we get to recognize and honor some pretty special women, in most cases MOTHERS. It also gives all of us a real look at the backbone of our organization and the values that make it work. In a society that we have today which places so much emphasis on the body beautiful and what is in it for ME, it is refreshing and helpful to know that our emphasis is more on the moral and spiritual values and the work ethic in our society. We are fortunate to have as a model, our Blessed Mother, who is our help, guide and consoler. It is indeed fitting that we use this prayer, “Marija Pomočnica...Na Brezjah na Gorenskem” as our lesson in Slovenian this month.
The pregovore-proverbs are starting to come in with some very interesting comments. We will start publishing some of them in the July/August issue. Thanks to those who took time to send them in and the rest of you can get busy and send us more.
MARIJA POMOČNICA ...NA BREZJAH NA GORENSKEM
MOLITE:
O Devica, Pomočnica bila si in boš nam ti,
Le sladkosti in blagosti tvoje roka nam deli;
Ko cveteča in dišeča si, Marija, rožica.
Sem iz Raja, Svet’ga Kraja viješ cvetje upanja.
Ti nas vodi, z nami hodi, kaži pravi nam stezo; nas obvari, blagodari z roko svojo milostno!
In o smrti raj odprti nam doseči milo daj.
Kjer veseli hvalo peli bomo tebi vekomaj!
O Virgin, you were and shall be a helper to us.
Only sweetness and goodness your hands give to us;
/4.v blossoms and fragrances you are, Mary, a little flower.
Here from Paradise, a Holy Place You weave blossoms of hope.
Guide us, walk with us, show us the right paths;
Protect us, give goodness with your gentle hands!
And at death you open the heavens, you give the gentleness attained for us. Where joyfully we shall sing praises to you forever.. .Amen!
Devica...Virgin Pomočnica.. .Helper
Si	Bila...You were In...And
Ti boš...You shall Nam...to us Le...Only
Sladkosti.. .Sweetness
Blagosti.. .Goodness Tvoje...Your Roka...Hands Deli...Give, Share Ko...As
Cveteča.. .Blossoms Dišeča.. .Fragrances Si...You Are Rožica...Little Flower
Sem...Here Iz...From Raja...Paradise Svet’ga...(the) Holy Kraj...Place
Viješ...Wind, Twist, Weave
Cvetje...Blossoms Ti vodi...You Guide Nas...Us Hodi...Walk Z nami...W7//» us Kaži...(You) show
Pravi...Right
Stezo...Paths
Obvari... Protect
Blagodari...Give your goodness
Svojo... Your
Shrine of “Marija Pomagaj” at Brezje, in Gorenjska, Slovenia.
God bless you
for the love you give to others, day by day... God bless you for the way you always know just what to say...
«Xe)H<Sfe» vGHSfc* V<SH®h> v®HSk»
RETHA MINTON
!ZThis Mother's Day message comes to let you know how much your kindness and special thoughtfulness are appreciated today and every day!
Br. 2, Chicago, IL
J\lay	ax
Slovenian Women’s Union Br. #2 is pleased to have Mary Jagar as our Woman-of-the-Year. Mary was bom on June 23, 1912 in Breezy Hill, Kansas, and has been married for 57 years to her husband, Joseph. To double the pleasure of her birthday, it serves as her anniversary as well. She is the mother of three children, Roberta, Patricia, and Joseph, as well as five grandchildren and seven great grandchildren. As a grandmother she provides a nuturing home type environment as she baby sits for her grandchildren. Over the years Mary has proven her love for her family by many acts of kindness and care for each generation. She is known, among her friends, as a woman of great honesty, reliability, and desire to serve.
Among Mary’s interests are traveling, dancing, dining out, baking, and playing bingo. She has visited nearly every state during her travels over the years. Mary and her family enjoyed traveling throughout the states and learning first hand the history of our nation. As an avid Chicago Cub’s fan it is obvious that baseball is her favorite sport, few people know that as a young lady, she even pitched for a championship softball team which placed second in their league!
We all know Mary’s love for BINGO! She thoroughly enjoys the game, and is known to win occasionally. However, the church and organizations sponsoring these activities are the greatest recipients of her faithful attendance.
Since joining S.W.U. in 1943, Mary has proven to be a valuable contributor to our beloved organization. She has contributed her varied talents for the preservation of our Slovenian 'heritage. In the kitchen or out of it, Mary is always willing to help and to serve others. Her culinary talents include her famous cheesecake which is enjoyed by all. The hallmark of Mary’s love and service is evidenced
by her constant willingness to help when asked — she never says no! Mary is also one of our most faithful and reliable pall bearers. She also finds the time to actively participate in the functions of the St. Stephen’s Altar & Rosary Society and the Senior Women’s Club.
Joseph Jagar, her husband, best characterized the uniqueness of this sincere and exceptionally devoted woman and mother when he said, “She is so good, I don’t know how I deserve her." S.W.U. Br. 2 salutes a lady who loves greatly and serves quietly. We love God and thank Him for the gift of you!
Reporter
Br. 3, Pueblo, CO
on
We are very proud to have chosen Retha Minton as our “Mother of the Year.” She is very worthy of this honor. Retha is sometime called Rita and stands out with her attractiveness, blue eyes, blonde-grey hair and beautiful smile.
Retha has been a member for 11 years, 4 of which she was Vice President. She is a very active member and always offers a helping hand whether she is an officer or an active member.
She was bom in Newport, Arkansas on March 3, 1924 to Esa and Sam Johns, who were farmers. Her dad passed away when she was six weeks old. She attended schools in Arkansas and Pueblo and, after getting out of school, she worked as a waitress for many years and then worked for St. Mary's Church under Father Dan for 15 years and the Salvation Army for a year.
Three children were born of her marriage to John Pavlin, who is deceased. They are George, Lorraine and Dorothy. She is very proud of her nine grandchildren. John Boštjančič, her second husband, passed away in 1969. She has been married to James Robert Minton for 21 years.
MARY JAGAR
God bless you
for the thoughtfulness so typical of you... God bless you with true happiness on Mother's Day and all year through.
Retha says she is not an expert at anything but is good at cake decorating, machine knitting, cooking, jewelry making and sewing. She also plays the organ.
Congratulations, Retha, and may God bless you with good health and continued happiness.
Reporter
Br. 10, Cleveland, OH
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One gets the feeling when you know Helen Suhy, that she is carrying on a tradition - and that her mother who is a spry 97 and living in Pennsylvania is the first generation of a family very dedicated to Home. Helen’s volunteer work, with the Legion of Mary at St. Mary’s church, with the Holmes Ave. Pensioners, baby sitting for her 19 grandchildren and/or 12 great grandchildren are all indications of extreme maternal and sisterly care.
Helen's mother is a long-time widow living on the family homestead where Helen was born in 1914. Helen also attendd school there and started to work at age 16. She says she has constantly worked, at different jobs. While in Penna, she met and married her husband, Steve Suhy, the year was
1935.	She was married for 30 years before becoming a widow herself.
Helen’s five children are Raymond, Mary Louise, Joann, Steven and Ronald. They are all married and have families. The celebrations of this family are frequent and fun. There’s always birthday, it seems!
Helen is very sociable as a member and currently is an auditor of Br. 10. She is a good cook and a good worker
-	both are assets for branch activities in Cleveland.
Selecting Helen was easy, say the members. She's really a marvelous friend to all!
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Br. 12, Milwaukee, WI
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Jean Turk Jelenc was born in Indianapolis. Her father came from Škocjan and mother from Vrhnika in Slovenia. The family consisted of two girls and three boys (now deceased). They moved to Missouri to farm and soon found out that was not the way to go, so they moved to Milwaukee. Jean’s mother was active cooking for herself and Jean after John died at the age of 98.
In grade school, Jean made and won first prize for her graduation dress. She now also was showing her talent and sang a solo for the program. Then she went to Girls Tech and took a dressmaking course. They had to make a dress and hat out of paper. She has a picture from this project. Well, dressmaking was ok, but she switched to a commercial course, which lead her to a job at the Milwaukee Journal at age 16. She stayed 14 years in the travel bureau, when she was told to leave because the boys were coming home from the war and they needed the jobs. At that time, they did not approve of married women working.
In the meantime Jean was very active in singing societies and plays. She sang the lead in an operetta directed by Mr. Matoh at the South Side Turn Hall. She also had the lead in "Peg of My Heart” which was translated into Slovenian by Rado Staut of the Slovenian Hour. John Jelenc, a young mortician saw her in the play and wanted to know who that dream girl was. So, Sophie Stampfel introduced them. John played the doctor (he was a great pianist) and Jean the patient in "Mitzi-treba moža". In 1936 they married and bought the Grunwald Funeral Home on National Ave. They were both active in Planinska Roža and Pevski in Dramatski Zbor. John died in 1961 so Jean operates the Jelenc Funeral Home with help from relatives and friends since then.
Jean always gives a helping hand
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HELEN SUHY
LOUISE PETRUSICH
whenever asked, which shows her humanitarian side. She belongs to St. John the Evangelist Church (she broke ground with Fr. Claude when we built the new church). Christian Women, Lady’s Guild and Socialites. She also belongs to St. Matthew's Church and their Christian Women; also, the Lions Club, Eagles, Elks and the National Ave. Advancement Assoc., Sloga, KSKJ and SWU Br. 12. She sponsors many bowling teams, too.
Br. 13, San Francisco, CA
Br. 14, Euclid, OH
ROSE RODGERS
She and John sponsored many people immigrating from Europe and is happy they are all good American citizens.
She remembers the time she went with Mrs. Prisland. in 1971. to the Dedication of the Slovenian Chapel at the Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, D.C. and the children met them at the door with flow-ers. She loves people for what they are and respects our Triglav Society who perform and keep our ethnic heritage alive.
Her interests run in history, world events and new discoveries. I could write and write about Jean with a big heart and helping hand. I touched the high points of her life and am happy to be included as her friend.
She received a plaque from KSKJ at their Recognition Day Dinner a couple of years back so we honor Jean as our Woman of the Year in May.
Mary Kiel
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It is with pride that we honor our Mother of the Year. Louise Petrusich. Although she has been a member only two years, she has served as Vice-President all this time. Her enthusiasm and smile has been a wonderful asset to our branch.
Louise Pluth was born in San Francisco and raised in the area known as "Kranski Hrib". She did secretarial work until she married John Petrusich in 1946. John was a wholesale meat salesman. They raised two daughters, Denise Shaffer who is an RN and Janet Nagel who is Principal of St. Mel’s School. Louise has four grandchildren, Brian 17, Stephanie, 16, Lynn,
10	and Bradley 7. Brian will graduate from Jesuit High School in June and Bradley will receive the sacrament of Holy Eucharist in May. Stephanie and Lynn are members of Br. 13.
Louise has worked as a volunteer at Holy Family Day Home. She loves doing needlework, plays the piano and enjoys cooking.
In November, 1990 she lost her beloved John after 44 years of marriage. It was a loss for our branch and church because John was always there with support and encouragement.
Louise quotes. “It is a great honor for me to be able to work and socialize with these wonderful people with whom I grew' up. This friendship extends to our parents who traveled to the U.S. from the same region in Slovenia and settled in the area that we lovingly call Kranski Hrib."
It is with love that we honor you. Louise. May God bless you w ith good health so you can keep this enthusiasm that you bring into our lodge!
Beverly Jackson
It is most appropriate that Mother of the Year Rose Rodgers serves on our Sunshine Committee, for that is what she has brought to our shut-ins these past seven years.
Rose, along with her late sister, Frances Erzen, were a team who were part of that committee and who worked side by side for our branch at our special events, cheerfully volunteering their services, especially in the kitchen, whenever needed. Rose has been a member of No. 14 for 23 years, and her mother was a member of No.
10	in Collinwood.
In November. 1913. her parents. Frances and John Grill were married in their village of Moravče in Gorenjsko. Slovenia whereupon they immigrated to this country. Besides Rose, they were blessed by three other daughters, Frances Erzen (deceased), Alma Tercek. and Mary Yence (deceased ).
Rose's life reflects that of utmost importance to her is her family and her church. Born in Cleveland and baptized in the Slovenian parish of St. Vitus. Rose attended Cleveland Schools. Upon graduation she was employed by General Electric.
In 1942 Rose and Frank Rodgers were joined in marriage at St. Mary's Church and moved to Euclid. Ohio. Frank, who passed away in 1981, was employed by the U.S. Post Office for thirty years before his retirement. With the arrival of two handsome sons Tom and John. Rose decided she wanted to spend time at home to enjoy her sons, and when they started to attend school, she took a job with the Euclid School Board in the cafeteria of Euclid Shore School. In this way, she would be home when her children arrived after shool.
Rose reminisces that she started out by washing pots and pans then went on to learn all phases such as preparation of salads, sandwich making, and then finally became baker. Her day started with the baking of about twelve to fifteen pies, ten cakes, bread rolls, cookies and occasionally special desserts such as apple crisp.
Since retirement in 1967, Rose can now enjoy her family and grandchildren. Her son John works in Drafting and Inspection and Tom is an Environmental Chemical Engineer. Tom and
Isn’t it funny
how some special people don’t realize
they’re special at all? They’re thoughtful without even thinking about it. They’re always right there when you call...
They share, not expecting a thing in return,
Yet always seem richer for giving-Isn 't it lovely how those special people can teach us so much about living!
AMANDA BRADLEY «S9H<5>*	«HS)h<3>^ *XSh<5>>> «SS>h<ž>>»
MARGE PREBIL AND FAMILY
wife Nancy have two children Joey,
11	years old and Tonya, 9 years old. who are the apple of grandma's eye.
Rose has traveled to Europe and Slovenia three times and has been fortunate enough to have visited the homeland of her parents. Last year her cousin from Slovenia visited here for five weeks during which time a family celebration was held with about fifteen cousins and their families.
A warm, inviting home filled with bright green plants and an outdoor garden of brilliant flowers and vegetables keeps Rose busy during summer months. Never one to sit still, winter months find her doing intricate embroidery work when she's not busy making her delicious noodles. Another favorite pastime for Rose is bowling and has bowled a couple of 200 games this year and holding a 146 average.
Congratulations to Mother of the Year, Rose Rodgers, truly a person who has brought Sunshine into our lives. God Bless You!
A.K.
Br. 16, So. Chicago, IL
Chosen for 1991 Mother of the Year for Branch No. 16 is Marge Prebil. This honor had been bestowed on Marge 30 years ago in May of 1961, but since it has been necessary for Marge to resign as president on her doctor's orders, the members want to show appreciation for her outstanding performance as our president by honoring her with this title for the second time.
Marge was born on July 12, 1918 on the West Side of Chicago and was a member of St. Stephen’s Parish. She married Anton J. Prebil on October 8, 1938. They operated a grocery store on the West Side from 1941 to 1953, the year they moved to the East Side of Chicago. Marge’s sister, Kate Vidmar, who enrolled Marge in Branch No. 16, operated a craft shop from her home and upon her death. Marge took over the business and operated it for a short time. After her husband Tony passed away in 1975, Marge was employed by the Chicago Police Dept, and remained there until her retirement in 1985. Marge and Tony were blessed with 4 children.
Lois is a Joliet Franciscan Sister and lives in Brookfield, 111. She works as a Coordinator of Social Care at St. James Church in Chicago. This ministry includes a Food Pantry that serves about 1,000 people each month, a special program for people on Public Aid and a Program to assist with the various social, personal and spiritual
needs of senior citizens in the area.
Kathy is married to Timothy Monahan and they have 5 children, Sean 19, Timothy (T.J.) 16. Daniel 13, Ryan 12 and Megan 6. Kathy is Assistant Director at Sarah's Inn. a Domestic Violence Agency. Her husband, Tim is Director of Residential Services at Ada S. McKinley Community Services in Chicago.
Tony was recently married to Sheryl Bullpitt in Springfield, Illinois. He is a Professional Job Recruiter and Sheryl is in Hospital Administration at Weiss Memorial Hospital.
Rose Marie is married to John Nishimura and they have 4 children. Stacy 13, Mike 10, Kristi 7 and Tony is 5. Rose Marie is an R.N. and works at home keeping track of their 4 children. John is a Staff Engineer at Commonwealth Edison's Nuclear Division.
Marge's favorite hobby is gardening and it is evidenced by her yard which is a showplace. Marge truly has a green thumb and everything blooms in profusion under her skillful planting. She has written and acted in many "Half and Pol” skits which always go over great with an audience. She has conducted many successful games parties, lovely dinners and programs honoring our Mothers of the Year in May and fun-filled Christmas Parties which have left us with many happy memories. Marge is an excellent baker and there is always a treat ready and waiting whenever any of her 9 grandchildren drop in. She also loves to play Bunco and twice a month Marge and 7 of her friends met at each others
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MARIE SCHEIDT
JO MOHORČIČ
homes for an evening of fun. In adition to all the above hobbies. Marge also is an avid cross-word puzzle fan, delights in watching all sports and enjoys reading.
One of the highlights of Marge’s life was the surprise party her family gave on her 65th birthday. The party was held in her garden which was ablaze with color in her birthday month of July - a day that I'm sure will remain with Marge forever. Marge has always loved people and the attendance at the party revealed it - the spaciousness of her yard provided the room for the.many persons who came to celebrate this important date with her.
The saddest day of Marge’s life was
Auugst 1, 1975. the day she lost her beloved Tony to whom she was married for 37 years. Theirs was a devoted and loving marriage.
Marge is also a member of the following organizations - Confraternity of Christian Mothers of St. George Church. East Side Seniors, DeSales Senior Center and K.S.K.J. St. Stephens No. I of St. Stephen's Parish.
We look forward to Thursday evening. May 16th when all of Marge's family, members and friends will gather at St. George Church Hall to see Marge crown the Blessed Virgin Mary and to see Mary Brozovich, our
1990	Mother of the Year crown Marge as our 1991 chosen Mother. It will also be an evening to show our appreciation to her for her dedication and untiring efforts during the 12 years she has been our President. We are sorry that she had to resign and we wish all the best to her, especially good health. We love you. Marge, and may you have a very Happy Mother's Day. Congratulations!
Gladys K. Buck
Br. 19, Eveleth, MN
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Mary Vraničar is the chosen Woman of the Year of Br. 19. She is their Vice President and has been a member for many years.
Mary was bom in Eveleth in a family of four boys and two girls. Her parents were Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Vraničar, immigrants from Slovenia. Only a brother and Mary remain from this family.
Mary attended high school in Virginia and started to work in 1937 for Fleck’s Grocery. She remained with them for 25 years. After they ceased operating the store, she worked for Lenort Clinic Pharmacy for 15 years and retired in 1984.
She is very attached to her plants, enjoys them in her home. She also is interested in many kinds of crafts such as knitting and crocheting and spends time reading and listening to semi-classical music.
At the meetings, Mary is very willing to help with the coffee service and to step into the president's duties if needed. She says her parents were her greatest inspiration and is thrilled to have been chosen for this great honor!
Br. 20, Joliet, IL
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The Joliet Branch of Slovenian Women’s Union has bestowed the honored title of Mother of the Year
1991	on Marie “Poppy" Scheidt.
Marie was born in Joliet. IL to Mary and Anton Popek. She was the 4th child in a family of six. School days were spent in St. Joseph Grade School and Joliet Township High School.
Marie's mother, the late Mary Popek was a member of Br. 20 for 48 years. Also holding membership in Br. 20 is a daughter-in-law Pat K and 2 granddaughters Beth and Kay. Marie held the office of auditor for many years and proved to be a loyal and dedicated officer.
She is now retired after 19-1/2 years of employment at DeSoto, Inc. (detergent factory) and presently on a part time basis does collating at print shop, C & E Graphics.
Her special hobbie are Avon bottles and plate collecting.
Marie, known as "Poppy" to her many friends was married to Frank Scheidt on June 28, 1947 at St. Joseph Church with Msgr. M.J. Butala officiating. Frank retired after 20 years of service at St. Patrick's Residence. They both have fun doing things together. They enjoyed polka dancing for many years, but now are avid polka music listeners. They are the parents of 4 sons... Bill and Bob. the twins and Jim and Richard.
There are 6 talented grandchildren; Beth (plays flute, piano and bassoon and plays the organ in St. Joseph Church, Rockdale, IL ). Brian. Kate and Karen (plays flute and piano) and Danny. The grandchildren love to visit the grandparents to play cards and other games and especially enjoy eating at different restaurants on Sunday. Members of the branch are a daughter-in-law Patricia and three granddaughters.
Way back when Marie was a very popular seamstress. Her specialty was wedding dresses and formals.
Marie has been a member for many years. She was also a cadet in the drill team in which she held offices. She also held offices in the local branch and is a member of the Rosarian Club and St. Genevieve KSKJ.
Marie has been a loyal member, working behind the scenes for many of the branch functions, including garage sales, dances-never refusing to
help when asked. Vividly remembered is Marie's participation in a local parade shortly after the birth of her twin sons. That is utmost dedication.
Congratulations and our best wishes to Marie for many more years of good health and happiness. She will be honored on her day Tuesday. May 21st. at 6:30 p.m. dinner at St. Joseph Park. All friends, relatives and members are invited to attend this celebration.
Br. 25, Cleveland, OH
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Josephine Mohorčič was born December 14, 1917 in Cleveland. Ohio in the St. Vitus Parish area. She was bom to Slovenian immigrant parents and had two brothers and two sisters. She attended St. Vitus grade school and Jane Adams vocational school. Josie worked at Richman Brothers for
11	years, Grdina Bridal Shop for 27 years and Society Bank for 8 years. She retired in 1983. Since her retirement she has kept busy participating in SDZ, St. Anna, St. Vitus Christian Mother’s Club. Altar Society, Catholic War Vets Post 1665 of St. Vitus and the St. Clair Pensioners. She is serving as President of the Slovenian Women's Union. Branch No. 25 for the last five years and has been a member for thirty years. Her mother, sisters and nieces have all been members of the Union. Josie never married but dedicated her life to her family and community. Her special talents include cooking, gift wrapping, baking, gardening and holiday home decorating. Her nickname is JoMo.
Speaking for her nieces and nephews: "Our hearts are filled with wonderful memories because Aunt Josie is in our lives.
“She is known throughout the neighborhood (St. Vitus/St. Clair area) for her sense of humor, her kindness and her helpfulness. As a dedicated employee of Grdina Bridal Shop on St. Clair, we would wait for her to come home from work in the front of our grandparent's house. When we'd see this litile figure approaching from the distance - we'd go running for her screaming "Aunt Josieeee!" It seemed as if she was completely selfless. On her only day off. Wednesday, she'd take turns taking each one of her nieces and nephews downtown. We'd get all dressed up and wait at the bus stop with her. Our trip was
always eventful. She would take us to one of her favorite restaurants and inevitably we'd laugh at something hysterically. None of us will ever forget the Valentine's party she held one year, just for us kids. She made special favors, decorated her second floor suite, and made up special games with prizes just for the occasion. Everything was in hearts expressing her love for her family. Aunt Josie made every holiday extra special - from birthdays, to Halloween, to Easter. She had still and movie cameras with w'hich she chronicled each of our lives. She made each one of us feel very special.
“We think she's very special. Thank you. Aunt Josie. We love you!"
Br. 32, Euclid, OH
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If you meet Hermine Strainer, you immediately see a woman who is friendly, personable, one who likes to share her ideas and chat with you. She is smiling, and can tell you about all the places she has been - as traveling is one of her favorite pasttimes. She has been to many countries, all over the world. Another hobby, square dancing and ballroom dancing, brings her into contact with many sociable people, who. like Hermine, look at the sunny side of life.
She is an avid golfer, although recently has limited her activities somewhat. She does volunteer work at St. Joseph's Christian Life Center and at Our Lady of Lourdes Shrine, also at Merida Euclid Hospital for many years. During Lent, she lead a Rosary Group at the branch meetings and often attends religious services at her church and at various shrines. She is a deeply religious person and her strong faith in God leads her on her way in life!
Hermine is a widow for almost 20 years. She was married to Frank Strainer in 1938 when she was just a young girl. She is a Cleveland native, but has lived in Euclid most of her adult life. She was always employed in accounting, and usually in one girl offices. So you see, our Hermine is a very capable lady!
One of Hermine's fondest activities is collecting lead crystal that she is proud to show you when you visit her home.
The members elected her as president of Br. 32 and she was a good president for three years. She is al-
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KRISTINA ZUPANČIČ AND HUSBAND, JOE
ways helpful to the sick and ailing and does her part to keep the membership strong. They are proud of Hermine and very happy to make her "Our Favorite Woman of the Year, 1991!"
Br. 33, Duluth, MN
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Kristina (Ferkulj) Zupancich was born in Strugli. Slovenia. "Tina", the second of 13 children, was bom and raised on a farm. She only went to school through first grade as she was needed on the farm and to help raise the younger children.
Tina and Joe were married in July 1940 and their first three children were born in Slovenia. They were separated for 11 years because of World War
HERMINE STRAINER
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FRANCES PAYTON
II. Joe came to Duluth in November 1949, found a job and set up household for his family who arrived July 1956 and had a fourth child. They live in Gary and are members of St. Elizabeth’s parish.
Joe retired from St. Mary’s Medical Center. Tina worked as cleaning woman at various offices and private homes, and continues to clean one office at present time.
As a supplement to income for her three older children she donated blood once a month and used money to help with clothes or buy something special for birthdays or holidays.
Tina and Joe celebrated their 50th anniversary July 1990 with an open house for their family and friends.
Tina is a marvelous cook. She knits, crochets and does various crafts. She spent many hours making floral centerpieces for Minnesota Day Convention which were used as prizes. She is a member of St. Elizabeth Church Choir and she and Joe also sing with the KSKJ Singers.
Their four children: Joseph II (de-ceased-cancer 1982), Cleveland, OH; Kristina Molek, Cleveland, 2 children; Anton, Lillington, NC, 4 children; and Bernada Saari, Duluth, 1 child. Tina enjoys her family, even though her children, 10 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren are scattered all over the U.S. They see each other as often as possible.
Each grandchild was given an af-ghan made by Tina at birth and another when they married. She is always making stockings, mittens or craft items for Christmas and other occasions.
Tina attributes her mother as having the greatest influence and inspiration in her life. She was a tower of strength and love. “Taught us to be good,
honest and considerate of others. Grew up poor but very rich in heart.
“It is a marvelous feeling to be honored by friends. To be chosen Mother of the Year. I am very proud to be a member of Slovenian Women's Union Branch 33.”
Tina is a 33 year member of our branch and Bernada is also a member. Attends meetings regularly and can always count on Tina to “help”. She serves as honorary pall bearer for deceased members, helps in kitchen after funerals and at various church and branch activities. Goes on trips with the group.
Tina always has a smile. Her hearty laugh is contagious and she is always ready for fun. Tina shares with her family, friends, branch and church. When you think of Tina you think sLOVEnian and the LOVE is really in capital letters.
Lois Pelander, Reporter
Br. 34, Soudan, MN
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I have been writing up our Mother of the Year for twelve years now, and our Mother of the Year for 1991 was one of the most reluctant be in-teviewed, thinking she has no story to tell about her life.
Our Mother of the Year this year is Mary Frances Jamnick, who joined the Slovenian Women’s Union on May 20, 1981.
Mary Frances Deyak Jamnick, known affectionately to her family and close friends as “Mimi”, was bom in Ely on January 23, 1822, the daughter of Mary Kukec of Sodražica, Slovenia, and Frank Deyak of Ribnica. Mary and Frank were married by Fr. Mihelčič in Ely, Frank coming to America in 1914 and Mary coming later. They lived in Chandler Location. Mary was an expert seamstress, having been trained in Slovenia, and Mary Frances said her mother made many, many dresses for the ladies in Ely. I have also been told by others that Mary Deyak made the best apple strudel in Ely! Mary Frances attended school in Ely and went to work in a defense plant during World War II in Milwaukee, along with Molly Železnikar of Ely. Molly is now Molly Wilson of Soudan.
Many of you will agree that many men and women of Ely and Tower-Soudan married in the days of the 40’s and Mary Frances and Louis Edward
Jamnick were among them. Mary Frances and Louis were married on February 7, 1944, in Ely, with Fr. Mihelčič officiating. They had a family wedding and their attendants at their wedding were Frank Železnikar and Louis Železnikar. After their wedding, Mary Frances went back to Milwaukee and Louis went back to his army life, serving in the field artillery. He was a lineman overeas, serving in Germany. In 1946, Louis and Mary Frances came to live in Tower, and rented an apartment upstairs in the Zobitz building; in 1947 they lived in the Jamnick family home in Soudan, and in 1948, they bought their present home from Rose Stupnik of Ely. Their first three children, born prematurely, died, and included a daughter first, then a set of twins, a boy and a girl, the girl living for two months. But then they were blessed with three boys, all of whom have done well.
The oldest, Jim, graduated from Bemidji State College with a degree in teaching, and works as a production truck driver at MinnTac in Mt. Iron; John, graduated from Duluth Tech and is dispatcher for Northern States Power; and Mike, graduated from Eveleth Tech and works at Hibbing Electronics as a tester. Mike and Jim live at home with their mother and John makes his home in Champlin, MN.
Mary Frances’ husband, Louis, worked as a driller in the Soudan Mine and retired from there in 1962, going to work at Kainz Lumber in Ely and then as a guide at the Soudan Underground State Park. Louis was one of six members of the Jamnick family, all are deceased and Louis died of pancreatic cancer in 1978.
Fishing on Lake Vermilion with Louis was a treasured pastime for Mary Frances — she said she learned her expertise in fishing from her father and an uncle when she was growing up in Ely! She had no hestitancy when I asked her what she likes to do — that was — “Play Bingo!” She enjoys going to Fortune Bay on Lake Vermilion with her friends and playing cards, reading, doing cross word puzzles and has a flower garden — she doesn’t enjoy picking berries, tho! Mary Frances belongs to the Soudan Altar Society, the KSKJ Card Club, the VFW Auxiliary and is on the St. Monica’s Circle of St. Martin’s Church. She enjoys cooking and baking, apple strudel and walnut potica are her specialties, learning from her mother. Mary Frances also worked for nineteen sum-
mers at the Underground State Park, doing many things, including ticket selling and working in the gift shop; this she thoroughly enjoyed.
Mary Frances is recovering from a fall on January 19 at' her home which left her with a crushed elbow and three breaks in her left arm. She is recovering well and continues to have a smile on her face, is pleasant to be around, a willing worker and a real homemaker.
Mary Frances, we are happy to have you as our Mother-of-the-Year in 1991!
Adeline Mustonen
Br. 35, Aurora, MN
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When Frances C. Payton of Tacoma, WN was notified that her sisters of br. 35, Aurora, were honoring her as our 1991 Mother of the Year, this was her response:
“I was sure surprised to hear I was chosen Mother of the Year. To all the members, hello and wish them all well. I really miss all my friends in Aurora. I wish I could make a trip there, but I'm not up to traveling any more. I enjoy reading the ZARJA so I keep up with the news.”
Frances lives will her sister, Josephine, in Tacoma. She was born to Mr. & Mrs. Frank Shuster in 1912. She attended school in Aurora up to the 9th grade when her mother died early in her life. She then took over as cook and homemaker for the family. She also worked at the school laundry and Potocnik’s grocery store in Aurora.
Frances became a widow after 3 years. Her son, Eugene was born in Aurora and attended school here. He now resides in Tenino, WN and visits her every two weeks. She has no grandchildren.
When she moved to Tacoma, she became employed at the St. Regis Paper Co. and retired after 23 years.
Frances is a member of Br. 35 for 44 years and though she was not active in the branch, she was always sure her dues were paid on time.
She loves to'cook, it is her hobby. Her friend, Sylvia Kocjancich of Aurora had this to say about her: “Fannie is a dear friend of ours. The kids remember the card games, the stories she told and the baked goods - especially the Date Surprises she often baked at our house. The kids loved
her and called her Teta Fannie! She has a great sense of humor, was very dependable and hard working and always ready to help and pitch in time of need. Fannie was a great companion and I love her dearly.”
All members of Br. 35 who know her agree.
Frances’ brother, Max Shuster, a retired professor from the Univ. of Nebraska at Lincoln, who receives the ZARJA, was thrilled that she is being so honored as he wrote to us: “Frances did much of our cooking since our mother passed away when we were quite young. She is a wonderful cook and from that standpoint performed the function of mother, as il were.”
Max is excited about the SWU Scholarship program and has donated to the Fund and also written an article for ZARJA.
Congratulations, Frances, you are most deserving of the honor. You exemplify the true Slovenian woman and mother.
Submitted by Florence Holland, Pres. Br. 35
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SUSAN TOMAZIC
She worked at the Lorain Products Co., for 21 years and retired 8 years ago. Now she enjoys being a mother and housewife, painting, baking, cooking, dancing and playing cards.
We will help celebrate her day at the German Villa on May 8th at 1 p.m.
May God Bless her and keep her and we wish her a happy reign!
Love,
Mary Matos
Br. 40, Lorain, OH
We wish to introduce our Mother of the Year, Susan Tomazic.
She’s been a member of the S. W.U. for 19 years and served as auditor of our Lodge No. 40 for the past four years. She rarely misses a meeting and is ready to give a helping when needed.
Sue was bom in Colver, Penn, on Jan. 31, 1920, one of 9 children. The family moved to Lorain in April 1920.
She is married to Rudolph Tomazic. They have 4 children, 10 grandchildren and 2 great-grand children.
Sue enjoys taking part in activities connected with her church. She is a member of SS. Cyril & Methodius Church where she is a Eucharistic Minister, teaches P.S.R. and a choir member.
Sue and husband love to travel especially to visit religious shrines and go on retreats. Guadalupe, Fatima, Lourdes, and Medjugorje are a few of the places they have visited. She says that these visits are very uplifting and inspiring.
She is a member of the Slovenian Home Auxiliary Guild at her Church and the Guild at Holy Trinity Church.
Br. 47, Garfield, OH
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I was bom in Cleveland, Ohio on December 29, 1916 to Slovak parents, Joseph and Helen Basa and given the name of Margaret in Baptism. That was that start of my Catholic upbringing. After moving from Cleveland to Bedford, Ohio with its dirt roads, no sidewalks, no movies, our family grew to six children, five girls and one boy. My parents raised chickens and had a big garden. We all had to work in the garden but it all paid off because we ate well. To mention a few things we lived on: chicken, eggs, cabbage, potatoes, home made soup and lots of homemade bread.
I attended grade school in Bedford, in 1934 graduated from Bedford High School in the upper third of the class. Now it was time to go and find a job.
I got a job at the Richman Brothers Factory on 55th Street. This was a long way from Bedford. By taking a bus and two street cars I made it every day, rain or shine, five days a week.
In 1940 I married Peter Bizjak of Vineyard Avenue, Cleveland at St. Mary’s in Bedford. We lived on Vineyard until 1949, then moved to New-
IN LOVING MEMORY ON MOTHER’S DAY
Srama <0-*LanLn5£,(L
Honorary President of Br. 20, Joliet, IL Who passed away March 26, 1990
My heart still aches with sadness And secret tears still flow.
What it meant to lose you No one will ever know.
When I am sad and lonely
And everything goes wrong.
I	seem to hear you whisper Cheer up and carry on.
Each time I see your picture You seem to smile and say,
Don’t cry, I’m only sleeping
Till we meet again someday.
«H9h(^<?^9hG>>5«M£>hS>^«*<S>h(5>^«<<S>h<^	Sadly	missed	by	daughter,	Irene
bury, Ohio in Geauga County. Peter followed in his father's footsteps as a cabinet maker and had his own business until his death in 1978. We were blessed with six children all of whom graduated from high school. Of the six. two were girls and 4 were boys. The two girls went on to college, and all six are employed, married and have children. Raising these six children took a lot of hard work, patience, caring, understanding and most of all, a lot of love. I was chauffeur, referee, counselor and friend.
Of these six children, 17 grandchildren were born, ages ranging from 1 year to 25 years of age. I have done a lot of babysitting, cooking, baking, cleaning and telling them about my childhood living in the country and about their great grandparents, all deceased.
Now to my branch activities. I had very little time to give while 1 was raising these 6 children but now since they are all married and have their own families, it gives me time to do the things that I wanted to do and couldn't before. It’s only since I have been a widow that I took some interest in the branch activities whenever possible. Not being Slovenian it was hard for me to have things in common with the members but 1 have gotten to know some of them better than others and
really enjoy the group.
As far as personality, I can say I am pretty spry, dress well, am generous, talkative and have a great sense of humor. 1 love to make people laugh because it makes me feel that may be in some little way they can forget their troubles for a little while. I am 5 ft. 4 inches tall, have blue eyes, gray hair. I play golf, bowl and work part time at a golf club. I belong to St. Helen in Newbury, president of SFX Mission Circle #11 for 40 years, a member of the Ladies Guild, have served on the church council, sang in the choir and am now a lector.
My mother was the greatest inspiration in my life. Her dedication to the Blessed Mother was what I remember most about her. Every night she sat in her rocker and prayed all fifteen decades of the rosary. Another thing stands out in my mind. When 1 was a child she made me kneel beside her and learn to pray the Angelus in Slovak. I also learned the Our Father, Hail Mary and the Apostle’s Creed, along with many tears.
Being named Mother of the Year by Branch 47 members is a great honor. This feeling will remain w'ith me until I draw my last breath, that the Good Lord Willin' I’ll be reunited with my own "Mother of the Year.” Margaret Bizjak
Br. 43, Milwaukee, WI
Mary was bom in 1911 in West Allis, and never married. She comes from a Croatian background. She graduated from West Allis High School in 1928 and went to Business College for a year in Milwaukee, then worked at General Electric for 45 years in the Accounting Dept. For a while, Mary also lived in Chicago and in 1975 she retired.
She has been a very good officer of the Branch. Accounting is her strong suit. As treasurer and then as auditor, she has served the branch well.
Mary says she feels very honored to have been chosen as Woman of the Year! She is a lovely and generous lady, ready to help anyone in need. She is very friendly to all, and pleasant. She has always worked hard and maintains her own home, does a lot of canning for herself and her own gardening and lawn work. In the winter, you can see her out there shoveling the snow, too!
She loves to travel and has been to Europe and most states in the US.
She is religious and very compassionate and anyone who knows her is glad to have such a friend!
Br. 50, Cleveland, OH
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Our Mother of the Year is our loyal President, Ann Tercek...a very deserving person indeed! Her love, interest and time for S.W.U. has always been a “first" for her. Since Ann has been our President for 20 years, it has brought our meeting attendance way beyond our expectations' Sometimes there are a hundred or more! That alone should speak for itself, how hard she works for the good of S.W.U. Membership has arisen from 240 to 450 -many of these members were enrolled by Ann. Members are very important to her; she tries to please each and every one with her smile and personality! Ann makes sure everyone feels comfortable.
Ann also sees to it that visiting our sick members is a MUST, taking 3 or
4	members with her, to make a visit more pleasant, even taking along a few little surprise gifts.
Ann has three daughters, Nancy, Carol and Joan, six grandchildren and
2	great grandchildren, all members of Br. 50
Ann was first married to Frank Hočevar and after being a widow for 4-1/2 years, she married Charles Terček.
Ann is a member of Br. 50 for 24 years. She was the Regional President of Ohio for 10 years and did an excellent job. With her busy schedule she finds time for many other organizations, too: Church Choir, Volunteer for the Slovenian Home for Aged, St. Mary Altar Society, and with Charlie, the United Slovenian Society.
Kindness, love, understanding and above all a "darn” good President! That’s our Ann! Thanks to her for all she’s given in the name of Slovenian Women's Union!
Now for a few statistics: Ann was bom in Cliff Mine, PA, a Slovenian coal mining town. She came to Cleveland at the age of 20. She has 3 brothers who still live in Pennsylvania.
In Cleveland she worked as a cashier, waitress and hostess and met many friends thru her work. Ann loves dancing and singing. Her hobbies are sewing, crocheting and playing cards.
She is recognized as an excellent cook, and making delicious strudels and poticas.
Traveling is a great joy for Ann and her husband, visiting such places as
Slovenia, Austria, Switzerland, Germany, Italy and recently, Australia!
The clubs she is active in are KSKJ #169, SNPJ #614, Euclid Pensioners, Club Ljubljana, Holy Cross, Married Couples, A.A.R.P., Cleveland Style Polka Hall of Fame and United Slovenian Society and, of course, above all, Slovenian Women’s Union!
Reporter
Br. 52, Kitzville, MN
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Born in Kitzville of Slovenian parents, Frances knows a lot about her community and is a real “family" person. She is the mother of one son, Michael and helped to rear her three grandchildren when she lived with them for 13 years. She also worked as a dental assistant for 15 years before that. She retired in 1988 when the grandchildren, Michele, 24, Patrick, 22 and Jennifer, 20, were grown.
Her mother, Frances Shega, was a charter member. She passed away in 1985 at the age of 88 and is sadly missed.
Mary and her husband, Michael were married in 1942 and will observe their Golden anniversary next year.
She says she is very happy and honored to have been chosen and we know the members are proud and happy, too!
No. 54, Warren, OH
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My mother, Joanne Ponikvar, was born September 2, 1934 in Warren, Ohio, to Frank and Rose Racher of Slovenian descent. She lived on the same street for 22 years until she married Harry Ponikvar, also a Slovenian. Her only brother, Frank Racher, resides in Columbus, Ohio. After attending Warren city schools, working as a nurse’s aide her senior year of high school, she later graduated from St. Elizabeth Hospital School of Nursing, Youngstown, Ohio. Joanne was employed by St. Joseph’s Riverside Hospital, Warren, first as a graduate nurse and then as a Registered Nurse. When her second child, Tom, was born, she took a short leave from nursing to bear two more children, Pat and Paul, who with older brother Phil, kept her busy at home until she returned to nursing when Paul was in
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ANN TERCEK
Kindergarten. She continues to work for Dr. Colombo “Joe” Venetta, a general surgeon in Warren.
My mother loves to cook and experiment with new recipes. One of her best dishes is her wedding soup, a unique combination of vegetables, chicken, and meatballs with an egg fluff. She also collects limited edition prints and plates by renowned artist Pat Buckley Moss. Her husband and my father, Harry shares her enthusiasm for Moss-together they have built an impressive collection of pieces by Moss and usually have a new one to show me each time I visit them.
My mother and father will have
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“My mom. Rose Racher, was the greatest inspiration in my life. She always taught me to love and be proud of my heritage and to strive to do my best in all my undertakings. She left her family, all of them, in Slovenia, when she was 20 years old and came across the ocean to a strange land to work for relatives she had never seen; she learned to read and become a model citizen in our community.
“Her deep love of our Catholic religion has helped me to keep my faith and I have tried to instill these beliefs in my family as well.”
Joanne Ponikvar
been married 35 years on December
1	of this year. My mother describes my father as a "wonderful friend and husband.” To me he certainly is a wonderful father. He graduated from Youngstown State University with an engineering degree and presently is supervisor of programming in data processing for American Welding in Warren. My parents live in a lovely colonial home and enjoy traveling (most often to visit their sons and daughter), outdoor activities, and entertaining friends and neighbors.
Always very attentive to her children, my mother obviously sacrificed much so that we could enjoy the comfort and love she and my father always bestowed upon us. Their example has paid off: my oldest brother Phil, 33, is a metallurgical engineer; Tom. 31, is married with 2 children and works as an accountant in Warren; my youngest brother, Paul, 23. is a student at the University of Akron. As for me, 1 am 26 and work at Provi-
dence Hospital, Columbia, South Carolina, as a Registered Nurse in coronary care. We are a very close-knit family and always enjoy getting our far-flung selves together with our parents for holidays and special family occasions. This past summer we honored and surprised our dad by throwing a party for him on his 60th birthday. My parents are very proud of their step-grandchildren, Jessica, 10, and Brian, 6, both of whom live in Warren with their parents, Tom and Cathy.
My mother and I both are active branch members. She participates in all meetings and special events. As an officer for nearly 30 years, she has continued what my grandmother. Rose Racher, started when she founded Branch 54, with which she was very active until her death in 1984. I rarely get the opportunity to attend meetings these days, but I continue to participate by keeping up with chapter news in the ZARJA.
Along with her branch activities, my mother also is active in the community—she is a member of St. James Altar and Rosary, Circle of Caring, Crafts for Ridgecrest Nursing Home, Town Hall, AMLA, Committee of Warren Civic Music, the YWCA, St. Elizabeth Alumni Association, and the Committee of Trumbull County American Heart Association.
My mother is a wonderful and loving lady who is beautiful both physically and spiritually. She stands 5’7”, has blonde hair and sparkling green eyes to go with her heart of gold. Her kind example has clearly taught me what family and love really mean. Our family always has been and remains very close. My three brothers and 1 all agree that we have the best parents anyone could ask for, and our childhood memories and the years since will always be cherished.
She not only is my mother—I consider her my best friend, too. The two of us have become even closer over the years. Since I live 600 miles away,
1	don’t get to se my parents as often as I would like, but they help shorten the distance by calling me at least once a week to bring me up to date on family happenings. One of the special memories I have is when she flew alone to visit me here in South Carolina. We enjoyed a week of travel, shopping, and mother-daugh-ter companionship that 1 still remember fondly. When we do get together as a family. Mom amazes us
with her abundance of energy and her perky personality. It’s easy to see that a major part of her life revolves around my father, my brothers, and me.
Congratulations, Mom—I love you!
Patricia J. Ponikvar
Br. 55, Girard, OH
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Members of Br. 55, Girard, Ohio, felt that this month they would honor a special person in their lives, Sr. Jeanne Cigolle, the daughter of Matilda Cigolle, Recording Secretary of the Branch.
Sr. Jean is Administrative Coordinator for Windsor House, Inc. a group of 8 nursing homes. She has her Master’s degree in Education from Marquette University (1961) and is a registered nurse and licensed nursing home administrator.
Sr. Jeanne finds great satisfaction in working to help others. She gives her time also to the Ohio Nurses Association and is a Board Member for the Widowed Persons Services.
She says her mother was her greatest inspiration because the faith of her parents was the seed of her vocation to the religious life. "My fondest memory was helping mother celebrate her 80th birthday!” says Sr. Jeanne.
She adds that the honor of being selected as the branch’s Woman of the Year is very special because “these women are truly great and they make me feel that I belong!”
Br. 57, Niles, OH
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Our Mother of the Year was born in 1938 to Italian parents and has a twin sister and an older brother. Growing up in Warren, Ohio, she was cared for by her father, a steelworker and mother, a housewife. Esther is a 1956 graduate of Warren G. Harding High School and later attended Trumbull Business College for a year. She was a typist at the Grinnell Corp. in 1956. After moving to Florida, and worked at Burdine's Dept. Store for 5 years.
After moving back to Ohio, she found employment at Hills Dept. Store and became a playground aide at Bonham Elementary School.
Esther finds enjoyment working with ceramics, crafts, cooking, read-
JOANNE PONIKVAR
ing and crocheting. She enjoys serving a buffet of food to her sister members each year on her assigned month. Her mother-in-law. Jennie Logar, was also a member for about 50 years, serving as one of the founders of Br. 57. Esther, herself, is a member for 26 years.
Esther and her husband. William, were married in 1964 in Niles - they recently celebrated their 25th anniversary. Mr. Logar works as a millwright at Warren Consolidated Industries. They have a son. John of whom they are rightly proud. He graduated from Niles McKinley High School and is currently a finance major at the Univ. of Akron where he serves as VP of finance for a business fraternity and treasurer of a social fraternity. He has been voted for the outstanding College America Aw'ard. He is also a member of the Ohio National Guard currently serving in Operation Desert Storm.
When Esther comes into a group, there is an immediate awareness of the presence of a truly lovely person
-	she is attentive to everyone, has beautiful dark brown eyes and is peppy and talkative. Everyone loves being with her.
Esther recalls that her mother, Mary DiJoseph was the greatest inspiration to her. "She never let anything get her down, facing problems head on. She utilized her faith in God to keep smiling”, says Esther. "I hope that I have been a good model for my son as my mother was for me” she continues. And, Esther also thinks that the honor of being selected as Mother of the Year is a test of how successful her motherhood has been. The members concurr, and that’s w'hy she is their chosen member this year!
Br. 56, Hibbing, MN
SCizaktl "Xiz’SjioCar
Elizabeth was born in Nashwauk to Frank and Anna Rapinac. She was the seventh of the twelve born ot this couple who immigrated from Croatia. They were a very hard working family with income from boarders and hard labor. They always had a garden and baked their own breads. First up was the best dressed.
Elizabeth graduated form Hibbing High School and although she wanted to be a phyusical education teacher most of all, she took a scholarship for business at the Junior College. She
has her advanced degree in parenting and loving her neighbors.
Elizabeth worked as a bookkeeper (Micka Electric) until her children came quickly after marriage. Her car-rer has been one of the supporting role for her two husbands and five children. She has never retired.
She is the best cook in the midwest, but her talents are multiple. She has music in our soul and can plan the organ by ear. Her voice and whistle can chase away the gloom in any soul. Her athletic prowess would have made her a wonderful teacher. And, yes, she is a collector...of everything. Just ask her friends!
Her first marriage was to my father, Leslie Gaige. I always felt we came too quickly for this couple in a mining town and our financial needs grew faster than they could possibly keep up with her second husband, L.W. Spo-lar, it was a whirlwind courtship and an enduring nurturing match which brought Elizabeth much joy. Each marriage had its trials and happiness. Elizabeth and Leskie were married for 22 years and struggled wtih growth of themselves and the teen-age years of the first three children, while emerging two more wee boys. The second relationship with LW was over ten years in duration and in a more secure atmosphere. She is widow for the second time since 1979.
Elizabeth’s children are Gerald, married to Irene; JoAnn Marie, married to John Charles Stark; Susan Louise, married to William Lee Forsmark; Thomas Michael, married to Sally Irene and Patrick Bernard, married to Rhonda. Elizabeth instilled in all of her children the point of view that to become a person means to share oneself and return to the Good Lord all of the gifts given, through service and song.
All of her children have married and remain married to the same person... that is a feat these days.
She has 5 wonderful grandchildren: Julie Stark Goad; Jonie Louis Stark, Michael Gaige, Christofer Gaige and Shannon Forsmark.
Elizabeth is not only active in Br. 56, she takes her responsibility on with ardor. She had heart by-pass three years ago surgery and gave up her duties only briefly, as she want sto continue to be involved in all events that keep the heritage alive. She provides rides when possible and has been a member with her siblings, Mar-
(Continued on page 42)
SR JEAN CIGOLLE
ELIZABETH SPOLAR
MARJORIE VALENČIČ
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CLARISSA COSTELL
Br. 71, Strabane, PA
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Branch 71 of Strabane, PA selected Marjorie Valenčič as Mother of the Year 1991.
Marge was born on May 30th, 1934, in Strabane, the only child of the late James and Jennie (Tershel) Tomsic.
On November 19, 1955, she married Frank Valenčič. They have 4 children; 2 sons, Frank Jr. and Darryl and
2	daughters, Barbara and Jennie. They also have 2 grandsons; Frankie and Eric Valenčič.
The Valenčič Family owns and operates the Tomsic Chrysler—Plymouth Automobile Dealership in Washington, PA.
Marge and Frank enjoy dancing and attend many of the Slovene functions. Their sons are exclusive distributors of the Zupan Accordians and both are avid players, entertaining at various polka affairs. Marge and Frank also enjoy traveling, especially Slovenia, which the family visited last year.
Marge has been a member of Branch 71 for 36 years. Her grandmother, Mary Tomsic, was president of branch 71 for 40 years. She was elected National Vice President and State President for many years, preceding her death in 1988.
Sincere congratulations and love!
Reporter
Br. 73, Warrensville, OH
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Our Mother of the Year, Helen Kainec has been a member of Branch 73 for forty-one years. A grandmother and great grandmother, she came to the Warrensville Heights area in 1941 when she married Anton J. Kainec. She was widowed in 1962.
Helen, who celebrated her eighty-first birthday on February 22nd, attended St. Stanislaus School in Cleveland, Ohio. She later worked at a candy factory and then in the woolen mills. The mills in Cleveland employed hundreds when that industry was flourishing. Eventually Helen started working at Sunny Acres Hospital in Warrensville Heights, and she retired from that facility.
Her marriage to Anton produced two sons, Andrew and Richard. She
now can boast of six grandchildren and three great grandchildren.
Helen enjoys making rugs, especially using her own talents in hooking the designs. And she sports a green thumb when it comes to indoor and outdoor plants. They probably all bloom just because of her tender, loving care.
We congratulate Helen Kainec, we wish her a very Happy Mothers Day, and we are proud to have her as a member of Branch No. 73.
E.M.
Br. 92, Gunnison, CO
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This is a surprise. Frances! You are Br. 92’s Woman of the Year for 1991!
Everyone is pleased with the selection of Frances Somrak who has brought a lot of joy and happiness into the lives of all around her. Starting with her husband, Johnny, they have many interests that they enjoy together, traveling, dancing, (especially polka parties!), family get togethers, and just “enjoying life!”
Since retirement, Frances has been a good member in many groups, such as the Altar & Rosary Society, Secretary for the Gunnison Council on Aging, Senior Citizens, Heritage Club, Senior Exercise class leader and several bowling teams. Frances rates Bowling a her #1 favorite pasttime. She also worked at the Opportunity Shop and pitches in anywhere she is needed.
Let’s go back to Frances' early years. She was born a coal miner’s daughter at Ruby, Colorado. There were nine children of which she is the only one left. Her father moved the family to Aguilar, Colorado where she continued schooling and graduated from high school. She then went to Trinidad Junior College before transferring to Western State College in Gunnison to receive her BA and Master’s degree in Education. She accum-mulated some hours toward her doctorate but never could finish. Even so, that’s not bad for a coal miner’s daughter!
Frances had to work to help finance her education. She began teaching at the age of 19 at a small country school and then at Aguilar High School, Crested Butte, both elementary and high school. She was assistant prin-
FRANCES KAINEC
FRANCES SOMRAK
cipal for a while. The last 7 years before retirement she was at the Junior High in Gunnison teaching English Literature. In August of 1974 she retired after 30 years.
Frances and Johnny Somrak were married in 1948 at Aguilar. They met at an open air dance pavilion on a summer evening in June. "Coal miners' kids they were - and used to a lot of struggle, so they decided to struggle on together! John worked from the age of 14 to help his family. He was a coal miner at CF&F Big Mine at Crested Butte for 20 years and then a forester with the US Forest Service, Dept, of Agriculture at the Gunnison National Forest for 21 years. He retired in 1978 with many awards. Frances and Johnny can look back on a life of achievements and success. She succeeded in her goal to become a school teacher, with a lot of determination, even tho she had many concerns: helping her invalid mother-in-law and caring for her sister Sadie during the last years of her life. Frances also organized the Somrak Family Reunion in 1985, the first in 27 years!
Though she has no children of her own, Frances has been a mother to so many relatives, young ones, students, friends and anyone she feels needs mothering. She is a good friend and helpful neighbor.
She is also our reporter for Br. 92, and we enjoy reading her articles in ZARJA. Someday, we shall all come to Gunnison to say, “How d’you do!” to Frances because we know she'd be someone nice to meet!
Br. 100, Fontana, CA
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Clarissa, known to her relatives and friends as Chris, has been a member of Branch 100 for 3 years and has been an auditor for 2 years. Chris was born in Appalachicola, Florida in 1918, youngest of 5 children. Her father, Charles Schoen was an oyster-man and fisherman. The family moved to Massillon, Ohio when Chris was still an infant. She went to school in Massillon, and graduated from Washington High School there in
1936.	In 1940, she married Frank Cos-tell of Slovenian descent. Chris being of German descent had never heard of Slovenians before she met Frank!
Frank was a salesman for many years. They enjoyed traveling and were able to visit Slovenia twice after Frank retired. Chris worked about 6 years in a garment factory, but “retired” when the family moved to California in 1960. They had 2 daughters: Jean Cos-tell Turnbull lives nearby in Riverside and is an Assistant Superviosr of Nursing at Community Hospital in San Bernardino. Linda Costell is a Financial Interviewer for the County of San Bernardino. The family is very close and see each other often.
Chris and Frank w'ere married 46 years and Frank passed away in 1986. Chris has 2 grandsons, Steve Snow, 26 and Jeff Snow, 21. Neither is married, but they both live in San Bernardino and see their grandmother frequently. They still enjoy Grandma’s good homecooked meals.
Chris is an excellent seamstress. She enjoys cooking and making Slovenian food she learned from her mother-in-law and friends. She also enjoys Slovenian music, and collects crystal and blue glassware. She enjoys attending branch meetings and participate in all their activities. Her daughter, Linda, is also a member of the branch. Chris is now 72 years old, has grey hair, brown eyes and is 5 ft. 6 inches tall. She is hospitable, generous, helpful and easy to talk to. Chris says her greatest inspiration were her husband and children and the Slovenian people and friends she has met over the years. The memories included the 2 trips to Slovenia where she was able to meet her husband’s cousins and families. It gives her great pleasure to be honored as Mother of the Year by her friends in Branch 100.
Reporter
Br. 102, Willard, WI
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Mary is another of our sweet Mothers and Grandmothers of Zveza. She was born in Willard 80 years ago, one of 10 children in a family that lived on a farm when things were really hard. She attended school in Willard through the 8th grade.
She married John Lesar in 1933 and they also lived on a farm. Later, they moved to the village of Willard where she still resides. She became a widow in 1974.
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MARY LESAR
SABINA BARTOL
Mary has four children, all married, all living away from home. One of her boys lives in England. There are also 10 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren. She has attended their weddings, baptisms, graduations, birthdays, and last fall traveled to Ogden. Utah for a grandson’s graduation.
She is a good member, attends most of the meetings and contributes to all the activities. She has a wonderful personality, and was our diligent secretary for seven years. The members are very grateful and proud of Mary.
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DOROTHY BERNICK
Br. 103, Washington, D.C.
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Sabina is a native Marylander and the only child of Thomas and Olive Mattingly, residents of Washington, D.C. She was educated at St. Peter’s Catholic School and St. Patrick’s Academy, taught by the sisters of the Holy Cross of Notre Dame, Indiana. After high school, she found employment in a doctor’s office, where she did many interesting duties, and that continued when she went to the office of Neshian G. Hintlian Oriental Rugs. Another position came later in the Dept, of Commerce, Bureau of Census where she dealt with the vital statistics of many hundreds of citizens of the US. Later still, she was transferred to the Dept, of the Army and became a correspondence writer, answering questions on a variety of subjects pertaining to policies, procedures, and military information. During her 31 years of service she was awarded two outstanding Superior Performance Awards and received numerous commendations. At the time of her retirement she was presented a lovely silver serving tray inscribed with the dates of her service. It was a memorable event.
Sabina married John J. Bartol USN in 1940. He was a native of Slovenia and came to the U.S. at age 6 from Loški potok. They had three lovely
children, Loretta, Mary Elizabeth and Michael. They lost their beloved Mary Elizabeth from cancer in 1983; she left them two darling grandchildren, Elizabeth, 10, and Rachel, 8, who live with their dad, Glenn Gilbert in Virginia. Grannie writes weekly letters and calls them regularly - of course visiting as often as possible.
Sabina says that her parents taught her never to answer when not called by her proper name, Sabina, but she makes an exception when the nickname "Bunnie” is used by her husband! She and John especially enjoy family get-togethers that their daughter, Loretta and son, Michael and his wife, Joyce arrange for birthdays, anniversaries, etc.
Sabina’s feelings are very warm and loving to her sister members of Br. 103. She respects the caring relationships they have. She says it is a great honor to be chosen Mother of the Year and gratifying to know that she has the good wishes of the members.
Br. 105, Detroit, Ml
Dorothy Catherine Karun was the first-born child of Anna Klobučar Karun and Urban Karun, on August 26, 1927 in Detroit, Michigan and was one of the first babies baptized in the newly formed Slovenian Church, St. John Vianney on Geneva Ave. in Highland Park in which her grandparents and parents were very active.
Her mother was a native of the Upper Peninsula Copper Country. The family came to Detroit in 1921.
Her father came to the United States in 1921 at the age of 17. Her Grandpa Karun and Aunt Monica were on the Titanic when it sank, but they were both saved! Aunt Monica came to the U.S. for a visit in 1961 and we were all able to meet her.
She was born into a family that loved polka music. Her father played the Button Box and there are still people today that will remember dancing and singing to his music with a smile on their faces and a tear in their eyes.
She inherited her father’s gift to play music and as a child played the violin and viola in the Detroit Schools All City Orchestra. But by the time she reached adulthood her musical career ended because of so many other interests.
She has only one sister, Angeline,
married to her husband’s brother Edward Bernick. The girls claim they were raised at the Old John R Slovenian Hall. They lived in walking distance and spent every week-end plus a couple nights a week down there. They were proud that their Father was the Manager of the Hall while they were building the new hall and helped raise the money for it.
As a child she was a charter-member and first vice president of Juvenile Circle 29 of the S.N.P.J. and remains a member of the S.N.P.J. Wolverines to this day. She was Circle Director after graduating from High School.
She attended Greenfield Park Grade School in Detroit, Nolan Intermediate and graduated from Pershing High School with Honors in 1945. She regrets not going on to College because of her stubborness. Her father wanted her to go to College and stay home, but all her friends went away to school so she decided to go to work instead.
She really started her working career at age 13 at C.F. Smith and Co. Then, at age 14, on through High School, she was a soda-jerk at the Corner Drug Store. After graduation she went to work at the Plymouth Motor Car Co. in the Filing Dept, and later was in charge of the Car Records Dept., where she worked until she became pregnant with her first child, Cheryl. After that she chose to make her career homemaking.
Mother’s main hobby is children! She loves doing special things for them and takes time to enjoy their accomplishments. Her specialty is Halloween! Her house is always decorated from the front door to the back. She makes special treats for the children that come to visit. Mrs. Bernick’s house is still the favorite stop on Halloween night! She always created hand-sewn costumes from basement relics and continues the tradition - her grandchildren were Mickey and Minnie Mouse this year.
Mother married Joe Albert Bernick in September, 1948. They met at the East-Side Slovenian Hall. Because their wedding reception was so large they held it at the West Side Slovenian Hall with, of course, a Slovenian Polka Band! After they were married they still continued to attend and be active in all functions at the Club. As a result, son, Ronnie and daughter Cheryl were baptized at St. John Vianney Church and belonged to SNPJ Circle 29 and grew up attending the Club Activities, too.
Joe works at the Detroit News in the Mail Room and has been retired for five years, but still continues to work every day! They have lived on Linda in Warren, Michigan for 29 years. Many of the original neighbors still reside there. They have always been grateful that they chose such a nice neighborhood to raise their children, who have remained life-long friends with neighbors.
Dorothy Bernick’s daughter, Cheryl Anne, has a Master's Degree in Education and teaches part-time in the Troy School District. Cheryl is married to Dr. James Megahan, her childhood sweetheart, who has two Dental Offices, one in Warren and the other in Rochester. Cheryl and Jim have one son, Gregory, two years old, and are expecting another baby in July.
Son, Ronald is a Computer Operator at the Detroit News and also has a Dental Lab. He is an accomplished Musician and Vocalist. He has been playing in Slovenian Polka Bands since he was 12 years old! Mother is extremely proud of the fact that he was asked to play with Frankie Yankovic on several occasions! Ronnie also had his own Rock and Roll 50's Band. He is married to Arlene Feil and they have a daughter, Amanda Catherine, 9 months old.
Mother was a Girl Scout leader for
5	years and a Den Mother for the Boy Scouts for 2 years. She carefully planned every ceremony, every cookie sale, and holiday craft. Her home was always a "second" home for all of their friends. From office personnel in Catechism Classes, PTA member, and room mother, to a Parent Chaperone at the Senior High School All-Nite Party, she was always there for us, says Cheryl.
The family always gets together for all holidays and birthdays. Mother makes sure she cooks a favorite meal and has a cake for the celebration. Her pride and joy are her grandchildren, Gregory and Amanda. She sees each of them a couple of times a week, enjoys babysitting, keeps a special room set up - complete with crib and toy box, and showers them with lots of love and spoils them with little “surprises”. She does for them like she did for her children — her life revolves around them!
Dorothy Bernick, daughter-in-law, Arlene, and daughter, Cheryl are all members of Branch 105 and grandma, Anna Karun is an Honorary Member. t There are also three cousins who are
active in the Branch. Mother's grandmother, Anna Klobučar Srebenak was one of the first members and was a member until her death in 1977. Dorothy participates in all outings and fund raisers and encourages her family to do the same.
Words from Mother: The greatest inspiration in my life is my mother. Anna Karun, who at S3 years of age doesn't miss any Slovenian activity if she can help it. be it a dance, a bus trip, a picnic or festival. Many times she comes up with favors for these occasions that she makes and donates, such a crocheted hearts for the Valentine Dance, shamrocks for St. Patrick's Day Dance. Santa Clauses and wreaths for the children's Christmas
parlies. She loves people and fulltimes and people love her. In the Detroit area she is known as "Grandma Ann". Our family is proud to share her with our friends.' She was also the Mother of the Year for our Branch in the 60’s.
My fondest memory is when they placed my first baby. Cheryl, in my arms. I had been married for 7-112 years and hhd just about given up being a mother and now I was staring down at the most beautiful baby in the world and she was mine.
/ am honored to be chosen "Mother of the Year" for our branch. We have such a great group of women, each of them worthy of this title, and I am very proud to represent them!
MY FAVORITE “MOM RECIPE”
INGREDIENTS
I 5’2” Woman I Purpose I pr. Hands
1 Heart
2 Arms
I Wonderful Man 4 Children I Small Neal Home 1 Large Smile I Green Thumb I Knack for Baking As needed:
Hopes, Dreams, Desires Meaningful Words Brown Curls Gray Hairs Flowered Apron Some Pets Equal Amounts of:
Generosity Love Understanding Tenderness
DIRECTIONS
Take one woman of approximately 5’2”. Mix in a pair of generous hands and a generous heart. The hands to teach, to cook, to sew, to bake, to write letters... The heart to love, to understand, to give to others... Add arms to carry groceries, laundry and babies. Fill her life with a wonderful man, four children and some pets. Whip in a smile that shows her generosity and tenderness. Add a green thumb and a knack for baking. Pour in her loved ones' hopes, dreams, and desires. Stir in words that console and enthuse. Slowly sift in, her Purpose, her God, that enables her to accomplish all things. Top with a crop of chestnut brown curls and sprinkle with a few gray hairs. Cover with a flowered apron. Put into a neat little home. Blend well for many years. The number of servings is limitless. Let stand for only a moment and say:
I	LOVE YOU, MOM.
Written by Sr. Lois, O.S.F. for her mother, Mrs. M. Prebil of Br. 16
\
■ \
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Grandma and Tony Nishimura
NO. 1, SHEBOYGAN, WI
Mothers Day Mass is 8:30, May 19th at St. Cyril's followed by Brunch in the church hall. This is our Members of the Year Brunch. We will also have a Bake Sale and Craft Sale Saturday before and after 5p.m. Mass and Sunday before and after masses. We are asking all the ladies to bake for this sale or if you can make any hand made articles we would include them on our craft table.
Our Branch donated $25.00 for the ZARJA; we all do enjoy reading the news from all the other branches and hearing from our Pots and Pans lady, Hermine.
Mary Germaine has moved to Sunny Ridge; please stop in and visit with her and our other members who are out there. Mary Turk is back home in Sheboygan, after spending the winter in Tennessee visiting with her son and family. While there she had cataract surgery. She is doing well now. Millie Mueller had surgery at St. Nicholas Hospital. We wish her a speedy recovery. Carol Persutti is up and about again and appears to be doing well. Good Luck Carol.
Our 65th anniversary will be Sept.
15th. This is also the State Convention day. We welcome all branches to attend.
We will have a meeting after the Mother’s Day Brunch in May. Very important that all be present to discuss the Convention plans.
Each spring, gardens quietly recount the stories of their past and of the people who planted them.
Happy Spring!
AGGIE & DOROTHY
NO. 2, CHICAGO, IL
March 14th, our meeting night, was another cold, windy, snowy night, Mother Nature has really put us through the test this year, but somehow we had a nice turnout for the St. Joseph Table/St. Patrick Party. Ray did a nice job decorating the hall all in red/white & green/white and a special section of the hall is always deco-
rated to remind us of all the service personnel who are still in the Persian Gulf. Each table had a pretty floral arrangements of red carnations donated by Joe Worth, and Mary Foys Lauretig made a beautiful floral center piece. Jo Lukas and Helen Fitzgerald made each member little Bunny Cups filled with candy and the St. Joseph placemats were made by Percy and Fran. This year it was a "pot-luck dinner” and every member brought one of her favorite recipes; they were cooked, baked, steamed, fresh (an assortment of delicious food). Many different kinds of sweets for the sweet table. The aroma of the food filled the hall. It was good to see so many members, our good Sisters of St. Stephen’s, Father Kalist and Father Blase and guests.
We began our meeting with prayers of thanks and President Fran read about St. Joseph. Father Kalist blessed the food. Thanks to all the members who came in the afternoon to help and get everything in order for us. Everyone had a real nice time.
1.) Anna Zorko won the door prize, a beautiful bouquet of flowers.
2.) We voted for the Mother of the Year and this year we will honor Mrs. Mary Jager who has been a member for many years. She has helped our branch whenever and wherever needed. Congratulations, Mary.
3.) PICNIC — July 21, 1991 — Please keep that date open. Bring your families, there will be entertainment and enjoyment for all ages. We hope that many members of other branches will be able to attend. Live music: Heritage Ensemble. Prizes are needed for the picnic. Remember! All roads lead to St. Mary’s — Lemont, Illinois. S.W.U. PICNIC!
4.) Cheer Basket — Try to bring at least one item for the next meeting.
5.) Easter Cards were mailed to our Troops.
Mary Foys Lauretig had her Easter display and she told us what the Easter Basket represented and the meaning of each item in the basket.
We had guests from the “Concerned Citizens of the 25th Ward” — of which St. Stephens is a part. Frankie Zel'ran and Stanley Wozniak told of plans to try to make the neighborhood safe again.
Our Altar Society members wish to thank all those who attended the games party and making it a success.
On March 27, at 4:00 P.M. a tornado came through the Chicago area
— hitting down in the town of Lemont, and destroying over 100 homes, uprooting many big old beautiful trees. St. James Church, the oldest church in the state of Illinois, was in the path of the storm; as yet, they are unsure whether this landmark can be saved. This is the second time in less than a year that we have gone through a terrible tornado but we are happy to say this time that, thanks to God, there were no deaths.
Our condolence to Ann Mladic on the loss of her brother-in-law, Joe Beribak. and to the Beribak family. Joe grew up in the neighborhood and attended St. Stephen’s. Please remember him in your prayers.
Also, remember all our sick members and those that are unable to attend the meetings. We were glad to hear that Mitzi Krapenc is doing better since her stroke; she is now in therapy. We sure miss them all, hope they will all be back soon.
NEW Member is Kerry Frances Marmozewicz; her daddy “Jerry” enrolled her at the last meeting! Also Katie Bual transferred to Class B.
Congratulations to Michael Magajne who received an appointment to prestigious West Point and to his brother, Marko, who now is Sr. A. Magajne of the U.S. Air Force. They have entertained Branch #2 in many shows. Recently Mark put on a
2	hour TV magic show for the children living at the base at South Carolina. Good luck, guys!
Dates to remember:
June I: St. Stephen’s Graduation
— Kindergarten
June 2: St. Stephen’s Graduation
— 8th Grade
June 13: S.W.U. Meeting — MASS 7:00 A.M. for the Ailing Members
June 16: Fathers/Sons Breakfast — by our Ladys Guild.
Hope everyone had a nice Easter. There is still so much conflict in the world, please pray for PEACE, and remember our Troops are still in the Persian Gulf.
Love,
DAISY
Easter came early this year and since warm weather is in the offing I’m sure everyone is busy with gardening, lawn mowing and trip and travel planning. Enjoy!
Prior to our meeting in March, many of our members enjoyed the meatless soup served after the noon mass on Wednesday prepared by our ladies of the parish. Soup was served every Wednesday during lent. The compliments received made the hard work worthwhile.
It is such a pleasure having a meeting with so many present and Anne Spelich. President, does an excellent job conducting the meeting. Due to cataract surgery soon, Mary (Mitzi) Drobnick, Vice-Pres., read the correspondence for Anne.
A "thank you” was received from the Sepesi family for our contribution to a charity in memory of Angie.
A letter was read from Betty Stefanic, Secretary of Branch 92, Gunnison, Co., stating they have scheduled the State Convention in Gunnison May 12, Mothers’ Day, which conflicts with plans here in Pueblo that day. There will be more discussion at our April meeting.
Among our sick are Elsie Barker’s husband, John, who had surgery and is convalescing at home, Helen Kaplan’s husband, Joe, who was ill but is okay now and back to work and Josephine Krasovec’s husband, Raymond, who incurred a broken leg in a fall and is recuperating at home. Frances Simonich, our Sec’y-Treas., had eye surgery and is getting along fairly well. She is still having knee problems. We wish continued improvement for all.
The mystery prize donated by Gertrude Jordan was won by Josephine Poder.
Refreshments were served by the hostesses, Rose Zupančič, Mary Kochevar and Agnes Cvar to 18 members.
"B” was played as usual.
Mary Yanks is looking forward to a visit with her sister Val, husband Chuck and granddaughters who live in Kansas City.
Jessie Koshak was beaming at our meeting and rightly so. She has a new great grandson, Mitchell Girebel.
What a pleasure it is to see some of our older seniors out now and then. Jennie LuKanic, a long time member
and who is unable to attend meetings, comes to church periodically with her daughters Anne and Alice. She is very proud of her grandchildren and great grandchildren. A great grandson was added to the list recently. Mary Kochevar attends our meetings when the weather permits and it is so nice to have her in our midst. Anna Pachak, our Honorary Regional Pres., who is in the Pavilion at the Villa Towers, enjoys visitors very much so if at all possible visit her.
I always stress not forgetting our people in nursing homes or those who are homebound. Our parish has a very active Visitation Ministry that takes Eucharist to these people, visits them and also telephone calls are made. These people need to have some contact with those on the outside. Some have family, some do not.
Happy Mothers' Day!
PAULINE PAUCHICK
NO. 5, INDIANAPOLIS, IN
Josephine (Sophie) Turk resigned this year as our Secretary/Treasurer. Sophie has held this position for the past 27 years. She will be sorely missed as an officer. Branch 5 would like to take this opportunity to thank her for her dedication and service. Sophie and her husband, Joe, worked hard for us, especially when it came to our annual fund raiser, making and selling pork sausage. Sophie not only helped start, but put much of herself into this project. Although she is no longer an officer, Sophie shall remain an integral part of Branch 5. Thank you, Sophie.
Branch 5 will be celebrating Mother's Day with a social meeting. This meeting will be held at the Slovenian National Home on May 9, 1991 at 11:00 a.m. I would like to encourage all members to attend. Each member is asked to bring a covered dish. I hope to see you there.
BARBARA MOHR
NO. 10, CLEVELAND, OH
The meeting was called to order by our new president, Dorothy Zagar on Wed., March 20th. Present were 15 members. Business meeting took place. Discussed and voted upon unanimously was that starting in 1991 dues will be paid by the branch for all members who are over 90 yerars of
age. Membership dues must be paid in the first three months of the year.
Our oldest member, who is 104 years old, is Mary Komidar. She is in residence at the Slovenian Home for the Aged on Neff Road. We have 11 members in nursing homes. Our sunshine ladies, Joyce Le Nassi and Fay Moro visit our members at least twice a year at holiday times. The elderly members are very pleased to be remembered.
Get well greetings to Louise Fabec who is now home from the hospital. Our condolences to the families of Molly Jenko, Mary Ulle, Louise Lauritch. Also to our member, Olga Toni on the loss of her brother. John Toni.
Birthay greetings to Fay Moro and Joyce Le Nassi.
Our delegates to the Convention are President Dorthy Zager and Treasurer Rosemary Susel. Please try to attend.
Discussed were plans for our celebration to be held on June 19th to honor our 50 year members and to honor our "Women of the Year. Helen Suhy. Keep this date in mind. Final plans will be made at our meeting on May 15th. We urge members to attend and help us with our plans. Have a Happy Mother's Day.
ANN STEFANČIČ
NO. 12, MILWAUKEE,WI
We opened our meeting with a prayer and also prayed for the repose of the soul of Veronica Visek. We extended our sincere sympathy to her family. Veronica was one of two charter members with 62 years membership. The other charter member is Mary Bucovnik who attends every meeting.
Member, Mimi Remic was in town from Crivitz and attended our meeting. Stop by more often, Mimi!
We welcomed Mary Fimiano and Christine Kuhs. Christine is a friend of Katie Zalesnik and Mary is a sister of our member. Rose Luebke and Josephine Rozman.
We had a delicious lunch provided by many people. A large casserole was provided by Ann Jelinek and another by Ann Grambow. So we celebrated Katie’s birthday in style, the only celebrant in March.
We were treated to colored eggs by our auxiliary member. Matt Dober-sek, his yearly contribution. Also our candy lady, Agnes Morrow gave each member a home made candy Easter
egg. We are lucky to have such a good friend, who gives us many surprises with her creations.
Members, remember our meetings are at St. Peter's Episcopal Church at 80th and Lincoln Ave.. Meeting in May is changed to May 9 one week earlier and we will start at 12:00 P.M. from now on. Lunch will be served first before all meetings so our clean up crew can participate in meeting activity.
Remember our meeting change is only for the month of May, otherwise they are the 3rd Thursday of the month.
Spring is sprung so enjoy our nice weather. And good health to everyone.
MARY KIEL
NO. 13, SAN FRANCISCO, CA
We had our Annual Buffet Luncheon in March. A wonderful group, delicious food and Mary Wraa took home our famous hand-crocheted af-ghan.
We were looking forward to the Mother of the Year Brunch on April 28. 1991. Our special lady is Louise Petrusich, our Vice President.
Everyone has missed our wonderful cookie lady, Ann Vercelli, who is on the sick list. God Bless you and get well soon. Ann.
I heard through the grapevine that cousins Doreen and Ann Sustarich are taking Tamburiza lessons. When are we going to hear a recital gals?
Rudy Sustarich, husband of Auditor, Virginia, has been in the hospital. Get well quickly, Rudy, and I know you read ZARJA.
It is with much excitement that Ann Sustarich and myself are looking forward to the S.W.U. Convention. We will be sharing all our news from the West Coast and hope to bring home some new and exciting ideas.
If you have any news to share please contact me. I love to hear from all our members.
Wishing all our sister members a beautiful Mother's Day.
BEVERLY JACKSON
NO. 14, EUCLID, OH
These occasional summer-like days which have arrived during the months of February and March have been a special bonus giving us a taste of beauty and wonders of spring.
Reservations are requested for members planning to attend our Mother of the Year dinner Tuesday, May 7 at 6:00 p.m., Slovenian Society Home on Recher Avenue. This year we honor Rose Rodgers with this well-deserved title. Call Vera Bajec at 481 -7473 for a delightful evening. This is one of the occasions in which members are invited to bring their spouses and/or friends to join in these festivities.
Rose Rodgers introduced two prospective members at our March meeting, Josephine Emser and Ann Kosir. Welcome to both of you!
Congratulations to graduate Matthew Fitzthum, son of Marilyn and Jim and grandson of Jennie Fitzthum. Matthew has completed his studies from Cincinnati School of Mortuary Science. Good luck to you and all our graduates with wishes for a successful career.
Greetings were sent to us from Mary Ucman who's laid up with a broken ankle and who hopes to join us at our meetings and functions in the near future. Member Elsie Sedmak has been ill and Marie Hosta has been recuperating at her daughter’s home following a car accident. Speedy recovery wishes to all our ailing members.
Condolences to the family of Josephine Kozlevčar of Chardon, who had transferred to our branch from No. 41; also to the family of Rose Sabec who passed away at the age of 95. May our Dear Lord grant our deceased loved ones eternal Paradise.
Wishing our members a Happy Mother’s Day!
ALICE KUHAR
NO. 16, CHICAGO, IL
Marge Prebil gave her retiring speech after being president for 13 years. She thanked the members for all their help. She especially stressed the beauty and thoughtfulness of all by attending wakes and offering rosary and prayers together. She said that is one tradition she knows will continue.
Installation of new officers took place with Mary Rago taking minutes in the absence of Phyllis Perko. Phyllis has been quite ill this winter. “Get Well" cards were sent along with our prayers for her recovery.
A luncheon was held at a neighboring parish. Our “Lucky Lady" Elaine
Strubel won a most unusual prize. It was a circular cardboard with twenty-five single dollar bills arranged as a pizza and flower ornament.
Our new president was so nervous that she jokingly said: “Maybe someone should call the paramedics before I start.” You know the ice was broken with our laughter. Good Luck and God 31ess you, Edna.
Beverly Matusek. Mary Puterko, Martina Saindon, Julie Vrlich, Bess Ivankovich, Josephine Ogrinc celebrated their birthdays with goodies in March.
Sylvia Spretnjak, Mary Brozovich and Mary Ann Sambol won door prizes.
A senior group in Hammond, Indiana had a St. Patrick’s Day Party. Members were invited to wear costumes. Gladys Buck and Edna Winters wore their Slovenian Costumes and stole the show. They were asked if they were Irish? NO — Slovenian — Oh, Slovenian-Irish? Their picture was also in the Hammond Times. They are great ambassadors for Slovenian Culture in our area.
Last month we congratulated Fran and Rudy Konar on 58 years of marriage. We are sorry to report that Rudy passed away on March 20th. Prayers and sympathies to Fran, children, and grandchildren.
May 17th will be our dinner for Marge Prebil, Mother-of-the-Year. See you then.
FRAN B. ZUPANČIČ
NO. 17, WEST ALLIS, WI
The month of May brings many celebrations, along with the warmer weather, such as Mother’s Day. Woman of the Year, the National Convention, Graduations, Weddings and Veteran’s Day or as we know it, Memorial Day.
A reminder: We will honor our Mother of the Year, Lill. Hartman, on Wed. May 8th at a 1 o’clock luncheon at Kegel’s Inn, 59th and National, West Allis. Please notify president, Marion Marolt at 327-3871 or our Sec., Joan Yaklich at 281-8983 if you intend to attend so that reservations can be made. Let’s make this a great and memorable day for Lill, a day she will long remember.
Members please note - There will be no meetings June, July and August, a time for a bit of vacation.
Oh, yes! Our games event will be held on Sun. June 9th at St. Mary’s
Help of Christians. Please try to attend. if possible.
Just received word that our member, Ollie Yurcich, passed away. Sincere condolences to her husband and families. Also our long time and charter member, Mary Petrich passed away at the age of 86. Mary was a kind and gentle lady always willing to help in any way. She will be sadly missed by all who knew her. Sincere condolences to all her relatives and friends.
May both these dear ladies receive their rewards in Heaven.
Have a safe and enjoyable spring and summer.
FRAN PIWONI
BOWLING “SPORTS” OF JOLIET
NO. 20, JOLIET, IL
The month of May will be a busy time for us with Mother's Day, "Woman of the Year" and Scholarship Award dinner, St. Joseph's Church Centennial and the National Convention.
The National Convention is just around the corner so get your reservations in as soon as possible; the bus trip fare is $60 per person, lodging will be at the Day’s Inn. Contact Joyce Vicich if you need more information.
The National Officers were present along with many members for our St. Joseph Table in March. What a beautiful spread - all members are to be congratulated on the food they prepared. it was a beautiful-bountiful table.
The Nat'l Officers were: Tory Bo-bence, president, Cirila Kermavner, Vice President, Olga Ancel, Secretary, Mary Muller, 2nd Auditor, Marion Marolt, 3rd Auditor, Irene Odorizzi, Culture and Heritage, Hermine Dicke, Scholarship, Fran Mori-son, Women’s Activities, Corinne Leskovar, Zarja Magazine and Evelyn Majercik, Chairperson of the 1991 National Convention.
Marge Grayhack is inviting all members to the St. Joseph’s Altar and Rosary, CCW, Card and Games Party May 19th at St. Joseph’s Park. The church will be celebrating the 100th anniversary on May 12th with Mass and a banquet. Everyone is invited.
Congratulations to Mr. & Mrs. Michael Vella (Jill Sicinski) on their marriage. We all wish you happiness and prosperity.
Hearty wishes to Bertha Hofer, new (Cont’d on pg. 40)
Zveza’s only bowling league was visited the evening of Monday, March 18 at Rivals Bowling Lanes. It was at these same lanes in the fall of 1936 that the Joliet league was founded by the late branch 20 officers, Jennie Benedict and Emnia Planinšek with Jo Sumic responsible for the league’s sanctioning.
Because of dedication and a special love for bowling, the Joliet league is now in its 55th year. If interested in next year’s season, call Pauline at 723-3905.
Picture 1: seated: Michalene Ferguson, standing: Mary Ann Pernot, Rose Costelli, treasurer, Carol Doszak and Donna Thompson.
Picture 2: Dorie Papesh, President, Tory Bobence, Women’s Activities chairladv, Fran Morison and Joliet league's secretary, Pauline Bick.
Picture 3: Marian Jakovic, Patricia Harison, Sharon Homerding, Vickie Bernikus (SWU bowler for 35 years)
Six teams make up the Joliet bowling league.
FOUR GENERATIONS
DATES TO REMEMBER
Rose \laras, our Br. 56 member and former state officer, right, with her great, great grandchildren Nikki Rose and Ryan Frederick Skornshek. Rose’s daughter, Judy Radovich is holding Ryan with granddaughter, Laurie Skornshek, center rear.
A TRIBUTE TO MOM
A mother is not perfect, which troubles her a lot;
She wants only the best for her family.
It causes her great pain
when they are ill,
or when a child has a heartache.
She would gladly take all their problems to herself if she could.
There is no love greater than a mother's -because
her love is spiritual.
How fortunate are those who have a mother until she is old.
You can hold her, comfort her -as she did when you needed love.
But for those whose Mom is gone, get down on your knees
and thank God that you had your special mother -and then blow a kiss heavenward —
She’ll know.
Ann Nusich Rec. Secy., Br. 38, Chisholm, Minn.
May	1 •
May	2 -
May	3 ■
May	4 -
May	5 -
May	5 -
May	5 -
May	6 -
May	7 -
May	8 -
May	8 -
May 13 May 14
May 14 -
May 15 -May 15 -
May 15 -May 19 -
May 16-19 Mav 23 -
June 9 -June 27 -
MOTHER'S DAY DINNER. Br. 95, So. Chicago. IL at Sacred Heart School Hall, 6 p.m.
WOMAN OF THE YEAR. Br. 2, Chicago. IL, Mass 7:00 p.m. followed by party MOTHER S DAY PARTY-Penny Social. Br. 33, Duluth. MN
MOTHER S DAY DINNER. Br. 47. Garfield Hts., OH, Quinn's Restaurant, Solon. OH, 1 p.m. MOTHER'S DAY BRUNCH, Br. 38, Chisholm, MN
50TH ANNIVERSARY. Br. 102. Willard. WI
COLO-KS-MO STATE CONVENTION. Br. 92, Gunnison, CO: Mass at St. Peter's Church, 10:30
a.m.. followed by luncheon and meeting MOTHER'S DAY DINNER. Br. 23, Ely, MN at Church Hall, 4:30 Social Hour, 5:30 Dinner MOTHER OF THE YEAR PARTY. Br. 14, Euclid. OH, 6 p.m. Call Vera Bajec, 481-7473 MOTHER OF THE YEAR. Br. 17, West Allis, WI, Kegel’s Inn, 1 p.m.
MOTHER S DAY DINNER. Br. 40, Lorain. OH, at German Villa, 1 p.m.
MOTHER'S DAY BANQUET. Br. 89, Oglesby. IL at Bek’s Restaurant
MOTHER OF THE YEAR MASS. Br. 42. Maple Hts., OH. at St. Wenceslas Church, 7 p.m. followed by snack at SNH
MOTHER'S DAY DINNER. Br. 57, Niles. OH. Shepherd of the Valley Retirement Center
MOTHER'S DAY DINNER. Br. 32. Euclid. OH MOTHER'S DAY LUNCHEON, Br. 43. Milwaukee, WI, Old Country Buffet, 12:30 p.m. Call Rose 481-7357
MOTHER DAUGHTER LUNCHEON, Br. 54, Warren, OH. Elks Clubroom. Rt. 422, I p.m.
MOTHER'S DAY MASS. Br. I. Sheboygan. WI. St. Cyril & Methodius Church followed by Brunch and Craft & Bake Sale
NATIONAL CONVENTION OF SWU. Days Inn, No. Randall. OH
MOTHER OF THE YEAR PARTY. Br. 50. Cleveland, OH at Sterle's Country House on 55ih St., 1 p.m.
GAMES PARTY. Br. 17. West Allis. WI PICNIC, Br. 12, Milwaukee. WI at Jackson Park
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No. 20, Cont’d:
Village President of Shorewood, Illinois. Joseph Shetina was re-elected to the Joliet City Council.
Get w'ell wishes and a speedy recovery to Helen Horwath, Marge Mar-kelz, Marla Mae Ellen and Ann Ster-nisha.
Condolences to Joseph Petrovič family and friends on the loss of Fr-
ances (Fanny), a 55-year member: to Pauline Puchar on the loss of Robert R. Buchar, Judge of the Circuit Court. Judge Buchar was very active in his community and church. He was highly respected by his peers and used the “wisdom of Solomon" in many of his decisions. He attended the SWU National Convention four years ago in Joliet.
Dates to Remember: May 12th -St. Joseph's Centennial" May 16-19, National Convention in Cleveland, Ohio; May 21st, Tuesday. 6:30 p.m. at St. Joseph’s Park, the Woman of the Year and Scholarship Dinner, also a special tribute to Our Lady of Brezje. See you there.
A.DRAGOVAN
April Fool’s Day fell on our meeting day this month — 37 members present and that’s the truth — no April Fools joke!
Mary Gotchnik did a prayer — reading and everyone was vary attentive; she read it with such feeling!
On the sick list this month is Ann Camaish, who is recuperating from a fall. We all wish you a speedy recovery, Ann.
Mary Petfitz reported on plans for our Mother’s Day Banquet. The committee has been busy. Put this date on your calendar, May 6, 1991 (first Monday) at the Church Hall — Social hour 4:30 p.m.-5:30 p.m. Dinner at 5:30 p.m. We have a choice of chicken or pork dinner. Yes, this should be very nice!
Ely will host the Minnesota Federation days this year — second Sunday of September, Sept. 8, 1991. Cochairpersons are Bev Lobe and Virgie Ivancich, who gave a report on their ideas for this special day. Planning will go from there, getting everyone involved. They have some fresh ideas which everyone thought were great!
Lunch Committee for the night were:	Pauline Polyner, Caroline
Deyak, Marion Kangas, Margaret Deyak and Angie Skala. A wonderful assortment of cakes and coffee were served, and socializing after was “great”!
See you at the banquet in May!
Reporter,
JANE YADLOSKY
NO. 24, LA SALLE, IL
Spring arrived with some awfully stormy weather in the midwest. A late snow storm, followed by extremely warm weather, and then a bad day of tornadoes and high winds. Hopefully the next months will be calmer.
There were only nine members at the March meeting but much was accomplished. We didn’t plan the May dinner but will know more after our April get together.
We were saddened by the death of our beloved Emma Shimkus on March
6.	She had been ill and unable to attend our meetings since February 1987. Emma was an exceptional person, always a great officer. She served in many offices in our branch as well as the other fraternal organizations to
which she belonged, and these were many—K.S.K.J. lodge #5, Sanctuary and Rosary Society of Resurrection parish, American Legion Auxiliary, V.F.W. Auxiliary, La Salle Woman’s Club, Catholic Daughters of America, to name a few. In 1986 she was honored by the Illinois Funeral Directors Association as a licensed funeral director for over 50 years. She was very intelligent and an avid reader, always upbeat and optimistic. She was an outstanding parliamentarian and meetings went smoothly when she was present. We had a nice group of our members present to recite the S.W.U. prayer before her funeral on Saturday March 9th. The Mass was conceleb-rated by Rev. James Swaner and Rev. Bernard Horzen. Her family made a loving and touching presentation at the Mass of the most important things in Emma’s life-God and her faith; her family; her country; fratemalism; and her generosity and love for others. It was a thoughtful tribute for this great lady. Our sincere sympathy to daughter, Wanita Helmer and her husband, George and to grandchildren, Kristen Allen and Karl Helmer and their spouses. The members remembered Emma in prayer at our meeting and made a donation to the SWU Scholarship fund in her memory. May God grant Emma eternal rest!
Minnie Carter had surgery recently and is up and about; Rose Furlan is hospitalized at this time and had surgery. Ann Pieczynski suffered a fractured arm. Theresa Jensen and Shirley Miller have been ill and hospitalized. We hope all are feeling better and will soon be well.
Congratulations to Minnie Carter and Antonia Jakse who have become great grandmothers again.
Watch the church bulletin and local paper for the time and place of our May Dinner and plan to attend, we always have a nice time. A short meeting will follow the dinner.
ANNE M. WANGLER, Reporter
NO. 26, PITTSBURGH, PA
Greetings from Branch 26 Pittsburgh; after hibernation during January and February, we are ready to socialize for a few months.
Our March 18th meeting was attended by 33 women, all happy to see one another and catch up on all the news and happenings.
Last month I inadvertently gave the
SWU LADIES LOVE YOU TOO, JOSIE!
Thank you Josie, for all the good-big, small, cute things you do for all of us. Josephine “Josie” Mohorčič, congratulations on your “Woman of the Year” award. You deserve it! You are one of a kind!
We’ll meet for her celebration at Sterle’s, May 7th, 1991 - 1:15 p.m. Come, and honor Josie with your presence.
CIRILA KERMAVNER
wrong name of our convention delegate; it should be: Agnes Widina, Pres, instead of Mary Slaney. Apologies for this error.
We are still discussing plans for some of the members to attend the convention Dinner-Dance on Saturday May 18th. If we can interest a few more we hope to make it down.
In the past week we were saddened by the news that one of our oldest living charter members passed away in Naples, Florida. She had been visiting her daughter, Mrs. Dorothy LeDonne when she took sick. Mrs. Josephine Jergel, age 91 years, died March 15th. She joined when Branch 26 was originated on December 29, 1928. Our sympathy and prayers go to her son, daughter and grandchildren.
We have had six deaths in our branch the past year.
Letters from headquarters were read by Mary Slaney, our Financial Secretary. We also received word of a substantial donation to our Branch 26 from S.N.P.J. Lodge 665. A special thanks was sent to the donors.
Not much more news on the agenda as our meeting closed with prayer, and all our delicious goodies were enjoyed by all. Next meeting was scheduled for April 22nd.
Happy Springtime to all our shut-ins, active and in-active members.
JANE LYNCH, Recording Secy.
BARAGA DAYS
NO. 32, EUCLID, OH
20TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION OF THE SLOVENIAN CHAPEL
Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, Washington, D.C. LABOR DAY WEEKEND:
AUGUST 31-SEPT. 1, 1991 OPTIONAL TRIP TO NYC; STATUE OF LIBERTY & ELLIS ISLAND SEPT 2-3, 1991
TOUR PACKAGES
PLAN I Washington, DC (Full Package): Chicago $370 Indianapolis $378
Mother Elizabeth Spolar (Cont’d):
garet Skorich and Sophie Carmaker, providing zest at every event, not to mention, song! Her mother, Anna Rapinac was one of our earliest members (1934), Margaret and Sophie, also long-time members as was sister-in-law, Antonia Rapinac. All were Mothers of the Year during their tenures.
If I were to describe "Liz" as she is usually called, I would say she has charisma, has zest and sparkle. She has soft features and the angelic face of a child. She is generous to a fault.
Oh, there is so much more to say. Mother’s able to tell so many details of her memorable youth and rearing of the children, the two marriages and many incidents. For instance, all five children were apart of her second marriage ceremony, with sons and daughters serving as the bridal party.
Duluth $538 Minneapolis $393
And, how the children provided all the caring and devotion to "Poppa" Bill during his illness. But, these are things that we'll save for Elizabeth’s autobiography!
When asked about her greatest inspiration in life, she heself says it’s the Floly Spirit of the Sacred Heart that has guided her all through her life; and her mother who was her first teacher about Catholicism and prayer; her family of origin from which she learned to share and care. And, then, as an adult, maturing with her children, watching them grow up to become fine, Christian, intelligent human beings.
"This honor makes me feel ‘special’ to my family and fraternal friends of the S.W.U., especially Br. 56."
And, we know it is an added crown that she will wear with pride and gratitude.
Pres. Dorothy Lamm, opened the meeting. Treasurer Ann Cooke, lead the group in prayer remembering all our sick members and all our service people especially the ones in the Persian Gulf War. All officers present except our Sgt.-at-Arms, Helen Kovačevič. Thanks to Josephine Skabar, for being Sgt.-at-Arms for the meeting.
Veronica Dalton, read a poem Today & Tomorrow which had a lot of meaning at this time.
Br. 32 is very happy to have Hermine Strainer, to be our Woman of the Year for 1991. May 15 will be our dinner. Mary Ster, will be our cook. She always does a fine job in the kitchen with her helpers. Tickets for the dinner will be a $10.00 donation. We hope that all members will attend this affair to make it very successful. Hermine Strainer is very much deserving of this honor. Bring your family and friends along with you. Josephine Comenshek, is in charge of getting the music. It will be an enjoyable evening for all.
Our fund raising project for this year will be a Chinese Auction, which will be held in Sept. Faye Starman is in charge of the auction. We would like all members to be involved in this project.
Robyn Walker, an exchange high school student is staying with Mary Drobnick’s grandson. She will be our guest speaker at our March meeting to tell us all about her country. New Zealand. It will be very educational. We at Br. 32 are so proud of our clever Fin. Sec’y. Charlotte. At some of the meetings she gives each member a meaningful saying such as; God so loved his son. He died for us with a rusty nail so appropriate at Easter Season. Thanks Charlotte, for being so thoughtful.
Ann Cooke's daughter Christine got married on Valentine's Day to Scott Surovchak, in Appolo Beach, Florida where they now reside. They will be moving to Akin. South Carolina where Scott will be working for a government plant. Congratulations to the newly weds. May they have many healthy and happy years together.
Agnes and Charles Krivec, Hying down to Georgia to spend the Easter holidays with son, Ron and family for a week.
Ann Rossman's grandson Eddie
PLAN II Washington-New York (Full Package):
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*Full Package includes: Roundtrip Airfare; Airport transfers; City Packages.
^Banquet ticket (Saturday night) $35.00, optional.
Washington Landmark Tours,
2362 Paddock Lane, Reston, VA 22091
Foster is moving to Cleveland from Florida. Congratulations to Ann. as she became a great-great grandmother for the fifth time. The new great-great grandson is Jeremy Foster.
Congratulations to John and Ann Telisman, they celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary.
In Feb. Mary Drobnick's granddaughter Sue, went skiing in Boston Hills. She had an accident while skiing and had to have surgery on her knee. She is now getting around with crutches. Some of our members that are on the sick list are Mary Golobic, Helen Kovačevič, Josephine Koss, grandma Godlar, Esther Garbincus and to all our other members that are sick we wish all a speedy recovery to good health.
Thanks to Josephine Gornik and Eleanor Latkovic for being hostesses. We had a very beautiful, decorated Valentine cake.
Our March meeting opened by Pres. Dorothy Lamm. Hermine Strainer and Marge Kovačevič lead the group saying the rosary for Easter.
Marge Sas’, husband had a stroke and was in the hospital. Marge thanked everyone for their prayers to bring him back to good health. Esther Garbincus attended the meeting with a sore back from her surgery. We wish all our sick members and friends a speedy recovery to good health.
A visitor was Robyn Walker, from New Zealand, staying with Mary Drobnick's grandsons family, Nancy and Cliff Drobnick. They live in Concord, Ohio. Robyn, is going to Mentor High School. She will be here for a year and has already been here for 7 1/2 months. Robyn, talked about her homeland while Nancy (her hostess mom) ran a slide projector. The slides showed us that there are three million people and six million sheep there. Beautiful country. We had another visitor, Andrea Pirich, who saw the notice in the paper and came to see the slides. Thanks Robyn and Nancy. It was very interesting and educational.
Faye Starman, has had her ups and downs so far this year. In Jan. she had cataract and eye implant surgery. Faye has new glasses and is doing very well with them. Husband Chuck was rushed to the hospital on New Year’s Day because a virus was dehydrating him; then in February he went into the hospital again, this time for bladder stones and prostrate surgery. They
were not able to go to Florida as they planned. Faye also came down with the flu. In the meantime they found she has developed asthma. As Faye says, one has to live with asthma just to take care of oneself. Faye's grandson John Patrick Clapac graduated from high school in Kentucky. He took a class in welding, came out first in his school and also first in the state of Kentucky. The Board of Education flew him to Tulsa, Oklahoma to compete with winners of 46 states. John came in second in one division and third in another. He came home with ribbons and proclamations which he received for other competitions. He now has a good job where he can pursue his college education in Engineering at some level. Congratulations and the best of luck.
Helen Kovacevic's son will be traveling to Texas and Virginia. Helen's daughter was visiting in London. Helen will also be a Confirmation Sponsor for her granddaughter.
My husband Frank and I were down to Atlanta, Ga. on a bus trip with a senior group. Weather was warm and the flowers were beautiful in bloom. We were about two weeks too early for the dogwood. Six day trip was enjoyable and educational. Thanks to our Fin. sec'y, Charlotte Perdan, for taking the minutes and notes of the meeting and to Sgt. of Arms, Helen Kovačevič, for taking the roll call and reading the Feb. meeting minutes. Thank you so much.
Hostess Esther Garbincus, thanked Josephine Gornik, for taking over while Esther has been ill. The hostesses always do a fine job.
Pres. Dorothy Lamm, donated the decorated cake with a shamrock for dessert in honor of her March birthday. To all members that have birthdays in March and April, "Happy Birthday” with good health and happiness.
Please try to attend our monthly meetings. Plan to attend our dinner
on May 15.
FRANCES OGOREUC
Mrs. Janet Voinovich
wife of Gov. George Voinovich of Ohio is a member of Br. 32, Euclid, enrolled many years ago by Mary Bos-tian. She has many friends among members of Br. 50 and other Cleveland branches.
A donation of $25.00 will be sent by our branch for ZARJA expenses.
Arrangements are made for a trip to Fanny Hill Dinner Theatre. Dec. I in Eau Claire. Wl.
Prayers of sympathy for Sophie Malchow on death of her husband.
Evelyn Adameak is at Nopeming Home following heart surgery.
Attendance prize won by Virginia Mikrut.
May 3 we will honor Mother of the Year; Penny Social.
LOIS PELANDER.
Reporter
NO. 34, SOUDAN, MN
We should be thinking of spring arriving soon, but here we had new snowfalls within the last week, we are in the season of Lent and Easter will not be too far ahead.
Our branch met for our regular monthly meeting on Wednesday. February 20. We are pleased to announce two new members, my grandson, Scott Mustonen, who was born on January 12 and Janet Plankers, daughter of our vice-president, Angeline Morin. We welcome both to our branch and organization.
We received a letter from Emily Skull, Regional President, giving the information about the national convention, stating there are plans being made to fly out of Duluth on May 15 as a group. We hope the convention will be successful.
We are happy to announce that Mary Frances Jamnick will be our Mother of the Year this year. Congratulations, Mary Frances. Our plans for the celebration in May will be made at future meetings. Mary Frances is recovering from a broken arm but she is up and about now and we hope she will be able to use her arm soon again.
Other members w'ho have not been well are Ann Myre, who is recovering nicely after by-pass surgery and Molly Wilson. We hope we see both of you soon!
Our meeting on March 20, had us playing bingo during our social hour, with each lady bringing a prize. This has always been so much fun and interesting to see how clever the ladies are in choosing gifts.
cJ-fzzitacjE <^J\[e.vj?l and O/levji
Irene Planinšek Odorizzi
DONATIONS TO THE HERITAGE MUSEUM
Many thanks to the members of Branch #47, Garfield Heights. Ohio, for their generous donation of $25.00 which was sent in memory of living and deceased members of their branch. We also thank Mary Taucher for sending with this donation, some additional photos for the History Book.
Sympathy is sent to Nika Kovacic, #103, on the death of her mother who passed away at her home in Vrhnika. Slovenia. We are saddened for her by this loss and also by the loss of her husband, Erik. Both of her loved ones succumbed within a year. Her sadness must indeed be great.
Nika has been a loyal charter member of #103, since its inception in 1965, and encouraged me greatly in organizing the branch. At the time her daughter, Bernadette, was just a little tot and now she is co-chairlady for the Women’s and Junior Activities National Office. We extend the same sympathy to Bernadette on the loss of her father and grandmother.
HISTORY BOOK
Mary Lou Vidergar, VP and former recording secretary of Branch #100 in Fontana, CA, sent the information in February. She mentioned that she was encouraged by Rosemary Mlakar to prepare and submit this information.
Rosemary Susel also sent in material for Branch #10 prepared by Ann Kristoff, a charter member of Branch #10 and with Branch #50 for twenty-five years. We thank these ladies for their efforts.
HELP WANTED
Mr. Robert Holmes, director of the Slovenian Museum requests additional volunteers for work in the museum. If any members live in the vicinity to Joliet and would like to travel together and spend a day under Bob's
guidance, please call him at (815) 727-1926 and arrange a time when you can come. There is so much to be done and not enough help. Try something different for a change. See what museum work is all about.
ARTIFACTS
The Convention is soon approaching and if any member wishes to donate artifacts to the museum, a good time would be when your delegate attends the convention.
I am sure she would be very happy to take your donation with her if it is packed securely. Make sure you give details along with the artifact: (I) Title of the artifact (2) Who is donating the article (3) To whom it belonged (4) Information as to when and how it was used (5) Age of article (6) Was it brought from Slovenia (7) Any other information that would be unique and interesting to the public.
MEMBERS AFFECT THE CONVENTION
How do you feel about your heritage? Do you think that it is worthwhile to continue to preserve our heritage with publications and with the Slovenian Museum? Do you have any other ideas about ways in which our Slovene heritage can be protected and preserved? Please let your delegate to the convention know your feelings about this issue so she will respond accordingly at the convention.
Since our organization lacks necessary funds to support heritage endeavors, please share your ideas for moneymaking projects that can assist the heritage committee in furthering heritage goals. Your input is important!
Have you also considered the contemporary purpose of our organization? What should the goals and activities of the SWU focus on in the nineties? There are many good ideas out there waiting to be discovered. Let your delegate know what they are so she can be prepared at the convention to submit practical and intelligent ideas that will direct our organization into the 21st century.
It being Lent, we did not have hostesses at our meeting, but the door prize was brought by Angela Tekautz and won by Barbara Pirjevec. Julie Vogt brought the door prize for the March meeting.
* * *
Something different was added at our meeting in March; we had a chance to have two Junior members, Leah and Gina Pustovar, of Stillwater, MN at our meeting. They happen to be my granddaughters and they learned to say “Zveza” to the surprise of their dad, Tom! "Grandma" happened to be babysitting while Tom and Monica were in Cancun.
We had a nice attendance but we missed some who may have been out of town or ill with bad colds and the
flu. We were informed that our member, Tory Bobence, our national president, was at the National Board meeting—we will be waiting to hear about her trip. We voted to make a donation to St. Martin’s, our parish, to help with the utilities which are so expensive these days. We also made a $25 donation to the ZARJA to help with the publishing of our much appreciated magazine! At our April meeting, we will make definite plans for our Mother of the Year celebration honoring Mary Frances Jamnick. We also plan to view a video on ethnic-cooking and baking that was purchased by Helen Adkisson. Hostesses will be Julie Vogt and Margie Skala, the door prize will be brought by Mary Vollendorf. Our meetine during Lent
did not include lunch, but we played "B” as a money-making project-again it was fun to see the gifts brought by each member. Even my granddaughters each won one time—Gina was so happy with the homemade jelly she won and reluctantly shared it with her sister the next morning! Leah Pustovar was the winner of the door prize, brought by Julie Vogt-I had her draw for the prize and she drew her own name! I’m sure they will never forget their first "Zveza" meeting!
Our weather is warming up and the snow is disappearing, everyone feels a little bit better when we can go out without worrying about slippery sidewalks, roads, etc. Have a nice spring.
ADELINE MUSTONEN
APPLICATIONS ARE NOW BEING ACCEPTED FOR A NEW S.W.U. SCHOLARSHIP DIRECTOR AND FOR OPENINGS ON THE SCHOLARSHIP COMMITTE
At the last National Board Meeting on March 18, 1991, I submitted mv resignation as Director of the Scholarship Program. It is now necessary to solicit a replacement for me. Anyone interested in this position should write President Victoria Bobence at 3587 Highway 169, Ely, MN -55731, by July 1, 1991. If you know of anyone who might be interested in this position, please submit a letter of recommendation to President Bobence by July I, 1991.
There are also several positions on the Scholarship Committee which will be open and should be filled. Recommendations for those replacements are also requested and should be submitted to President Bobence no later than July 1st.
Sincerely,
Hermine Dicke
NO. 35, AURORA, MN
A short report this time as we will be having our meeting on April 14th, too late for a May report.
Congratulations and best wishes to four of our members who will be graduating from high school in May and June. Sarah Kulaczewicz and Cindy Kalar from Mesabi East, Aurora, Sandra Stellmach from Babbitt and Paul Williams from Houghton Lake, Michigan.
Paul Williams received honorable mention to the All-Conference Varsity Basketball team for 1990-1991. All the boys were entertained at dinner once a week in March by the Rotary Club. Congratulations, Paul. He has been preparing for the sacrament of Confirmation which he will receive on May 21st at Our Lady of the Lake Church in Prudenville, ML Congratulations and God’s blessing, Paul.
Five ladies from our branch have made plans to attend the SWU National Convention in Cleveland. We are looking forward to learning more about the SWU and visiting with our sisters from other branches.
Max Shuster sent us a report on a couple of recipes his daughter tried from the "Pots and Pans" cookbook we sent him. His daughter, Anne, served potato dumplings and her husband, who is of German extraction, commented on the "excellent dumplings"! She also made the walnut potica which they all enjoyed. Max said it was a special treat as he hadn't eaten walnut potica for 40 years! Happy to hear your daughter is "making up" the recipes for you to enjoy. Max!
Happy Spring! Our snow is almost all gone and the robins are here - a sure sign thiit spring is here to stay!
ANNE M. ORAZEM
NO. 38, CHISHOLM, MN
The April 3rd meeting of Br. 38 was very well attended. A report of our Spring Card party was given by Kathy Knuth. Fran Zalec thanked all who helped and contributed to make this a success. Everyone had a great time.
On Mother’s Day, Fran Bizal and Lucille Palcich will visit the shut-ins of our branch and present each with a carnation. This is an annual custom.
We are very sorry to hear that Mayme Gazvoda is a patient at the Mesabi Regional Medical Center in Hibbing. She was injured in a fall on April 3rd. Wishing you a speedy recovery, Mayme.
We are saddened by the deaths of Edie Dolinar on March 17, Angeline Paver on March 29, and Frances Ponikvar on April 1st. We offer our condolences to the families with the knowledge that death is a graduation to a higher realm. And God never sends the winter without the joy of spring.
Fran Zalec reminded members to attend wakes and funeral Masses of all our members, and to congregate in a group. She thanked all those who so faithfully attend. Kathy Knuth asked all policy holders to check on their beneficiaries to avoid problems.
Plans have not been finalized for the May 5th Mother’s Day brunch. The calling committee will inform all members just as soon as possible.
Those present who have April birthdays are: Katherine Knuth. Rosemary Benson, Gloria Bonato, Charlotte Laurich. Jennie Samsa, and Fran Bizal.
The traveling prize was won by Charlotte Laurich. Door prizes were awarded to Anne Polichnik, Rose Faras. and Jennie Samsa.
Lunch committee for our May 1st
meeting: Rose Niemi, Jo Zupancich. and Millie Bashel.
Wishing all mothers a Blessed Mother's Day.
ANN NUSICH, Reporter
NO. 39, BIWABIK, MN
One of the main topics of discussion at recent meetings of Branch 39 has been the National Convention of the Slovenian Women's Union. Our president, Jean Korsman, and her mother. Anna Purkat, who will be celebrating her 89th birthday on April 7, will be traveling to Cleveland in May as representatives of our lodge. President Korsman's enthusiasm about being an active participant at the convention has renewed interest in national SWU policies and created an atmosphere of grass roots involvement for all members.
Plans have been made for our Woman-of-the-Year banquet to be held on Sunday, May 5. Member Margaret Berg has been chosen as this year's Woman-of-the-Year. She will be honored at a dinner at the Four Seasons' Restaurant. Members of the Gilbert branch will also be invited. These very generous ladies made a donation to our local scholarship fund. We are very appreciative and hope to enjoy their company at future social gatherings.
Members of our branch were delighted to read an article in our area newspaper about our terrific recording secretary, Bernadette Andreachi. Berna, her father, Nick Riley, and her son. Chris Andreachi, were featured in a story about three generations of a family attending the Biwabik schools.
On a 'personnel' note, Mary Geržina and Fran Anzelc agreed to continue to chair (he funeral committee and Kathy Siskar was selected as in-
terim vice-president. The auditing committee has finished its yearly audit and reported that all is in order.
A top priority of Branch 39 has always been to find ways to encourage a large turn-out at regular meetings. To this end. members have discussed providing rides for those unable to attend on their own.
MARY STRUKEL Reporter
NO. 40, LORAIN, OH
The saying goes, "if March comes in like a lion it will go out like a lamb." If that holds true, spring will be here in full bloom and summer is not too far behind.
March 13th. the day of our meeting, turned out to be a beautiful day; that's what helped us have 24 members in attendance. The 12:30 pm time we find is favorable to the majority of our members. I can't remember when w'e had so many attend. If you have never attended our meetings, do try to come and see us. I assure you will be in good company!
V.Pres.. Francine Pavlovčič, lead us in prayer, after which we w'ere served a delicious lunch by our Birthday girls: Molly Glavan. Helen Seku-lar. Angie Voytko and Angie Zgonc.
(So. be sure to come hungry!)
We hope it will not be too long, before our Pres.. Agnes Tomazine will be well enough to take over.
Several letters from the Home Office were read asking us to recruit at least one new member in this campaign and for donations to help defray the cost of the Zarja.
The profits from the sale of the Cook Books will help pay for the convention which w'ill be held on May 16-19 at the Days Hotel in North Randall. Oh.
We finalized our plans to honor our Mother of the year. Sue Tomazic. We will have a dinner at the German Villa on May 8th at I pm. Reservations are necessary so call 282-5986 or 282-6070.
Tricia Russ and Debbie Schullick were transferred into the adult membership department.
On Dec. ?0, 1990. Myron and Candi Uehlein became the parents of a baby boy. The proud grandfather is our member, Milo Uehlein. Congratulations!
Our Johanna Tomazic is in the Oakhills Nursing Home whose address is 3650 Beavercrest Drive. Lo-
rain. Ohio. She would apppreciate cards.
We will have two grandchildren graduating from Hi school this year. Anthony Mercurio from Lorain Catholic and Kristen Ernst in Scottsdale. Arizona.
Thanks to Olga Love. Helen Secku-lar. Sophie Pogacher. Angie Zgonc. Francine Pavlovič. Angie Voytko and Molly Glavan for their donations to our money-making project.
We wish all the mothers a happy Mother's Day and especially our Sue Tomazic.
Love, MARY MATOS
NO. 42, MAPLE HTS., OH
Hello ladies! Spring and Easter have disappeared and we're working our way towards the beginning of summer and all the activities the season holds in store for us. Our Easter Bakeless Bake Sale was. again, a tremendous success thanks to all who contributed. Theresa Filips made the suggestion to us five years ago and each year it seems to get better. It was. and is. a great idea, Theresa.
Plans fo the SŽZ National Convention. and our participation, are coming along nicely. It's good to know that we will have so many ladies take part in some of the activities as well as assist with the registration for the delegates. A schedule of events is located elsewhere in this issue. Keep in mind, you must make reservations for some of the social activities.
Best wishes for a most blessed and happy birthday in May for Clara Hrovat. Dorothy Mehosky. Vida Shega, Dorothy Ponikvar. Mitzi Champa. Donna and Gretchen Wilk. Melinda Phrne. Mary Filips. Angie Zupanc; and in June for Mary Ann Filips. Dolores Lipnos. Jennie Intihar, Betts Kastelic, Sally Prhne and Katie Gruden.
In the good news department, we're glad to see Ann Perko up and around. She had us worried. Also, good news for Mel Blazy whose daughter. Jan. and son-in-law are moving back to North America after living in Australia for the past ten years. They'll be living in Toronto, but it'll be a lot closer for Mel to visit more often. We received greetings and best wishes to all members from Betty Ann Harr and Betty Kosak who has spent these last few months with Betty Ann in North
Carolina, and Beth Harr is doing well and is happy in veterinarian school.
Please make note of the upcoming events. On May 12th. Planina will sing the Mothers' Day noon mass at St. Wenceslas. On Tuesday. May 14th. our branch will celebrate a mass at St. Wenceslas for all our ladies, also at St. Wenceslas. in conjunction with SWU National's Mother/Woman of the Year. Mass will be at 7:00 p.m. We'd like to see as many attend as possible.
A picnic has been planned for our summertime outing at Marge and Ann Zupancic's cottage near Lake Pyma-tuning for July 25th. We will charter a bus for the trip. Limit is 44 on the bus, so please call as soon as possible. For more info, call Millie Lipnos or Marge Church.
Happy Mother’s Day...
MARGE CHURCH
NO. 43, MILWAUKEE, WI
The March meeting was very well attended. Discussions for the National Convention were on the agenda. Matilda Simcic made notes of what is to be brought up at the meeting, mainly no increase in members' dues, officer’s raises and state convention. The Mass for living and deceased members and breakfast at Meyer's Restaurant has been cancelled, due to too many functions taking place that day. A later date will be announced. The Fall Card Party will be on Sunday. November 3rd at John's Hall starting at 1 p.m. Everyone is invited; bring a friend or relative. John's Hall is at 35th and Lincoln Ave. Donations of raffle prizes, door prizes, bakery and items for the grocery basket. Our members have been very responsive in donating, and we do appreciate and want to thank you. Sometimes, when something is brought, the officers are busy and forget to thank you, but we do appreciate what you bring.
We have some sick members, if you can send them a card, call them on the phone, or even visit them. I'm sure they will be happy. Rose Vodnik is at West Allis Memorial Hospital, Josephine Verbick is recuperating, but is very weak. Stella Pousha is at home, but slowly recuperating. She has been ailing for quite some time. Katie Spende just came home from the hospital. To these members and all other shut-ins a speedy recovery and may God bless you.
The Woman of the Year is Mary Bushnik who really deserves this honor. She never misses a meeting unless she is very ill, and that is seldom. She is a friendly and co-operative individual. We love you. Mary. The Woman of the Year luncheon will he on Wednesday. May 15th at 12:30 p.m. at Old Country Buffet, 4902 So. 74th. You must call in your reservation. Call Rose 481-7357. To all Mothers and Women of the Year, congratulations and best wishes.
To a celebrity, Mickey Cerar, congratulations on her excellent bowling, and her appearance on the television show, "Bowling with the Champs." Keep it up, Mickey, and good luck.
Just received word that Tony Smreker died. Our sincere sympathies to his sister, Anne Pogorelc and family. May his soul rest in peace.
Next meeting will be May 22nd. No meetings in June, July or August. Happy Mother’s Day to all.
R.K.
NO. 47, GARFIELD, OH
Our March meeting was well attended. Important issues were discussed in regards to our coming National Convention, also our 60th Anniversary of Br. 47 which will be celebrated Sept. 17th at S.N.H. Maple Hts. with a dinner at six o'clock. All members are kindly asked to try to attend. For tickets call Secretary Mary Taucher at 663-6957.
We will honor Mother of the Yerar, Margaret Bizjak, with a luncheon on Saturday, May 4th at Quinn's Restaurant in Solon. Don't forget 1.00 gift for our special Mother.
Happy Birthday to all ladies celebrating birthdays in April and May, namely, Esther Boncser. Rose Kočevar. Jennie Praznik, Katherine Gasparič, Eleanor Stražišar. An-tonette Janders, Helen Cuklar, De-lores Hrovat and Katherine Wallace.
To our sick list. May God bless the sick, shut-in members, with good health.
Congratulations to Carol Eversull, daughter of Rev. & Mrs. Robert Eversull of Chicago and Andrew Zagar. son of Mr. & Mrs. William Zagar of Danville, Kentucky and Grandson of Mrs. Ann Tekaucic and the late Agnes Zagar of Cleveland, Ohio. They were married on Nov. 24, 1990 at St. James Catholic Church in Elizabethtown, Ky. with the bride's father and the Rev. Scott Wemsitt officiating. Re-
ception was held at the new Central Harden High School. The bride is employed by Lakeview Rehabilitation Hospital with a degree in physical therapy. The groom is employed by Hardin County Board & Education and is currently the director of choral activities at Central Hardin High School. He has a masters degree in counseling.
Our sincere sympathy to Bill Ponikvar family and to Br. 42 on the loss of their most dedicated member, Olga Ponikvar. She will be greatly missed.
Happy Mother’s Day to all Mothers. Have a safe Summer. No Zarja will be published in June. See you on May 4th.
Thought for the day:
It takes both rain and sun to make a beautiful rainbow.
MARY TAUCHER
NO. 50, EUCLID, OH
Easter came a little early and the weatherman was not too good to us. Oh, we had sunshine all day, but it was nippy and cold and a warm coat felt good; but in spite of the chill. Easter Parades and promenades were on all over the city. A bit of sunshine fools you. I remember (a long time ago) the Art Museum promenades in new clothes and hats and flowers. Don't you? Wasn't it beautiful?
Memorial Day is coming - maybe we’ll be warmer. Euclid always has a big civic parade on that day and it's well attended, too. You are either marching or watching and this year we have reasons to wave our (lags, since our boys are coming back. You sure will know someone.
Our speaker for the March meeting was about the life of a cowboy out in the open range. Dan from the library recited poems with 10 or 12 stanzas, all memorized and said with expression. He said their life was a tiring, hard and exhausting one but if one likes solitude and beautiful natural settings - that life is it!
On the agenda are: how to write a Will which is always timely, and a Hawaiian movie.
Albina and Stanley Ulle became grandparents for the third time. Their son's wife. Celesta gave birth ot a "big” little girl, 9 lb. 1/2 oz. Congratulations!
Bonnie Greener, granddaughter of Josie Arko, is a senior majoring in Radio Productions at Kent State U. She has been active in the campus stu-
dent radio station serving as traffic and promotion director, as well as being on the air regularly and operating for W.A.P.S., Akron.
Our granddaughter, Christine Šebenik is graduating May 1 Ith from Colorado State in Fort Collins, Co. She will intern in Oregon in Occupational Therapy and later in Grand Junction, Co. We hope to see the graduation, it’s top priority with us. May Bonnie and Christine do well in their chosen fields.
Would like to see you all at the Sterle’s on 55th St. on May 23rd at 1:00 p.m. (on a Thursday) to honor our president, Ann Tercek. Let’s attend and let her know we appreciate her dedication as president (and too many other jobs) and this would be a small way to let her know that we do. Honoring her as Mother of the Year, should be fun.
Our sick members or convalescing are Ann Kristoff, knee replacement, Mary Marinko, Ann Zalar, Anne Ryavec. Millie Pike, Jean Miller -knee replacement, Molly Mauer and Mary Klemenčič, also Joseph Matejka in hospital. God willing, we wish you well and hope for the best.
Sorry to announce Rose McHugh’s death and also that of John Budas, husband of Mary. Our sympathy.
On a happier note we found out that their cruise vacation with Recon-ovec’s was very, very good - so say Molly Matt and husband and Mary Zager and husband. Good eating and fun.
Our president will always find a new face or one not seen in a long time and is glad to welcome her back. This month, for whatever the circumstances, why - We Miss You, Emily Unik, Rose Skully, Jean Tomšič, Vi Zak (Vi, try), Eleanore Kar-linger, Carole Traven, Jennie Laurich, Christine Nestor and Jane Vidic. Our prayers and good wishes are for you.
Attend the Nat’l Convention on May 16th to the 19th, any or all of the events. You will be glad you did. It’s something different, doesn't come around often and is interesting. Let’s make a good representation at all affairs. It’s ours - we're the hostess state, so let's do our part. Details in ZARJA by Evelyn Majercik.
The world is so full of a number of things I’m sure we should all be happy as kings.
(Robt. Louis Stevenson)
Z Bogom.
VERA ŠEBENIK
HERMINE PRISLAND DICKE 3717 COUNCIL CREST MADISON, Wl 53711
During the National Board Meeting last March, Fran Morison, President of Branch No. 2, Chicago, shared a recipe that she and her members enjoy: SPINACH CHEDDAR SQUARES. At the Shepherd’s Table pot luck dinner sponsored annually by Br. 20, Joliet, on St. Joseph’s Day which Board members attended, I was delighted to receive recipes for SAUERKRAUT AND RIBS and KNODLES from Marie Scheidt, Branch 20’s Mother of the Year for 1991, and MEAT AND VEGETABLE CASSEROLE from Maryann Gregory.
At the Shepherd's Table dinner, money is collected for a charitable cause. The Branch chose to send the contributions to St. Mary’s Carmelite Church in Joliet for its program to help the homeless.
* * *
Household Hints: Like a browned pie crust? Sprinkle a little sugar on the top and it will brown lightly.
GW Sugar says: "Boil together 1 pound brown sugar and 1 cup water for 10 minutes to make TABLE SYRUP."
See you at the National Convention!
Love,
Hermine
He: “I heard a good one the other day. Do you know the difference between a filet mignon and a hamburger?”
She: “No, I don’t.”
He: “Good. Waiter, bring us a couple of hamburgers.”
—The Correspondent
"The codfish lays ten thousand eggs,
The homely hen lays one.
The codfish never cackles To tell you what she’s done.
And so we scorn the codfish, While the humble hen we prize. Which only goes to show you That it pays to advertise.” - Anon
SPINACH CHEDDAR SQUARES
1	package (10 ounces)	2	eggs, beaten
frozen chopped spinach	1	cup milk
1	cup flour	1	stick margarine,	melted
1 teaspoon salt	l/2 pound Cheddar cheese.
1	teaspoon baking powder	shredded
l;3	cup chopped onion
1. Heat oven to 350°. Have ready ungreased 9 x 13-inch pan.
2. Cook spinach according to package directions. Drain well.
3. Sift together flour, salt and baking powder. Set aside.
4. Beat eggs; add milk and melted margarine; mix.
5. Add flour mixture, cheese, onion and cooked spinach to egg mixture.
6. Spread mixture in ungreased pan; bake at 350° for 30 minutes.
When cooled, cut into bite size pieces. Can be served hot or cold. To reheat, bake in 350° oven for 10 minutes. Serve as hors d'ouvre, snack or side dish.
MEAT AND VEGETABLE CASSEROLE
2	pounds ground beef	5	or 6potatoes, sliced thin
(I use ground round, less	1	package	(8 ounces)
fat and more meat)	shredded Cheddar cheese
1	medium onion, sliced thin	2	cans (10 bounces each)
1 can (16 ounces) green beans,	cream	of	mushroom	soup
drained	No salt
Heat oven to 350°. Brown beef; drain fat. In ungreased casserole, layer1: beef, then onion, beans, potatoes, remaining ground beef and cheese. Top w ith the 2 cans of undiluted cream of mushroom soup; spread evenly. Bake uncovered at 350° for
1	hour or until potatoes are done. 6 to 8 servings.
KNODLES (knadles)
1	package (181'’ounces)	2/.i	cup flour
Earthgrains Six French Rolls, 3 large eggs or 4 at least one day old-4 or 5	small eggs
days old is better, but not hard x'* cup milk
In large soup kettle bring 4 quarts water to boil. In small bowl, pour some cold water. Dip rolls in cold water very briefly; squeeze out water and in bowl break rolls into small pieces as for bread stuffing. Add flour; and top with unbeaten eggs and milk; mix well. Dip your hands in water and then make 2 to 21': inch balls (about 13); drop into boiling water (a must). Boil 15 minutes uncovered. Remove with a slotted spoon to drain.
NOTE: Not finding the French Rolls in Madison, 1 used a one-day old loaf of French Bread (16 ounces); cut it into 2-inch slices before dipping in and squeezing out water. Some people add chopped parsley and salt to knodles and serve them sprinkled with buttered bread crumbs or with roast beef and topped with gravy.
SAUERKRAUT AND RIBS
1	large can (27 ounces)	2	or	3medium onions, sliced
sauerkraut	(a must)
2 to 2 l'i pounds spare ribs	1	can (103/j ounces)
or country-style pork ribs	undiluted tomato soup
Spread evenly one-half can of sauerkraut into a large, ungreased cooking pan or Dutch oven, place ribs on kraut, put sliced onions on or in between the ribs and arrange other half of kraut on top of ribs. Pour tomato soup over kraut; spread evenly. Cover and bring to boil; lower heat and simmer until meat is tender, about 1to 2 hours, or bake in 350° oven for Ito 2 hours. 3 to 4 servings. Serve with Knodles or boiled potatoes.
Pots and Pans
Our first meeting of 1991 was held March 6th with Pres. Rose Trombly presiding. Meeting opened with a prayer. Past three months weather man didn't cooperate, of course again this evening.
We had a nice turnout at our Christmas Party which was held at the Elk's Club. At this time Frances Kanicski was selected as Mother of the Year. She has been a member for many years. Her late Mom. Frances Shega was a charter member.
Communications in regard to the National Convention to be held in Cleveland. Ohio May 15-19.
Those who wish to go bv plane from Duluth to Contact Minn. President. Emily Skull. Bus arrangements information with Scenic Travel of Hibbing.
Rose Trombly is the delegate from Branch #52.
Sunshine Chm. Ann Roberts mailed get well cards to Theresa Montcalm. Ann Tool. Angeline Russ, Angeline Hrvat. Celia Politano and Stella Cal-liguri. From all of us we wish you good health in 1991.
Our sympathy to Lucille Strom and family in the loss of her husband, father and grandfather. May his soul and the souls of the faithful departed rest in peace.
Celia Politano celebrated her 90th birthday. Her children had an Open House for the celebration.
Angeline Russ is a resident of Hill-crest Terrace. She has made many friends there.
With spring and warmer weather, we can concentrate on activities to encourage attendance.
Hope you all had a nice Easter with your families.
Let's not forget to pray for our men and women in Saudi Arabia. Wish them to come home soon.
After the meeting cards were played. Door prize. Theresa Montcalm. Smear High. Julia Man-cuso. Jennie Crea and Margaret Kochevar; Low. Ann Roberts. Alice Baratto. and Dorothy Russo.
Hostesses. Gen Zidarich. Alice Baratto. Theres. Montcalm and Millie Barbato.
MILLIE BARBATO
Reporter
S.W.U. INVITES YOU
Membership open to all
Our plans are completed for our annual Mother-Daughter Luncheon on May 15th at I p.m. at the Elks Club room. Rt 422. Hostesses are Jo Kassan and Millie Pollock. We are hoping for a great attendance. We always have a lovely afternoon together.
We all have the travel bug in us it seems. My husband and I spent Easter at our daughter's in South Carolina. My aunt. Margaret Racher went to Florida for her grandson's wedding. Jo Kassan. Anne Savor and husband. Martin, who will be 90 years young this year, are going by bus to Ellis Island. N.Y. With the Girard Pensioners Club and the Savors also have two grandsons' weddings out of state that they will attend. Back from Las Vegas is Anne Brdek. Haven't heard if she struck it rich!
Get well to Mayme Sporich who had cataract surgery and Frank Kaferle. Angela's husband, who also had eye surgery. Vic Zuga and family visited them. They live 48 miles from Warren and Angela was so happy to see her old friends! Happy and safe traveling to all and God's blessing for our National Convention which our president. Jo Kassan and myself will be attending.
JOANNE PONIKVAR
NO. 56, HIBBING, MN
Meeting of the S.W.U. Branch 56 of Hibbing held March 12, 1991 at First Ave. apt. at 7:30 p.m. Our president. Valeria Carlson opened with prayers.
It was read we have $296.14 in our checking. Pres. Carlson also stated that the women should be thinking about crafts for the Convention.
Correspondence was read by our Financial Secretary, Elizabeth Spolar. Fritzi Furlong wrote a nice letter along with her mother Veronica Schwartz’ dues and a four dollar donation. Liz also read the birthdays for March. “Happy Birthday" was sung to all.
In new business the Mass for deceased members will be at Immaculate Conception Church. November 10, 1991. Following the Mass members were go to Sportsman’s Cafe.
Eizabeth Spolar brought the tickets to the meeting for the prizes at the
convention, many of the members brought tickets.
Lunch Committee for April were Mary Micheletti. Dorothy Oberstar and Sylvia Lattick.
No further business - meeting was closed with prayers.
Lunch was served by Ann Satovich. Amelia Domen and Mary Drobnik. Games were played. Romolae Per-prunner won the door prize. Everyone had a nice time.
Respectfully written by.
EDITH JONES.
Rec. Sec.
NO. 57, NILES, OH
Our March meeting was very well attended as we had a beautiful day. Even our weatherman was nice to us. We had a lovely lunch served to us by Frances Yerman and Ann Pease. It is very nice having lunch before our meetings.
Our meeting was opened with a prayer. After our reports were read and approved we discussed our Mother's Day. Luncheon to be held at the "Shephard of the Valley Retirement Center" on May 14th to honor our Mother of the Year. Esther Logar. Call Ann Pease for reservations.
Our next meeting will be held on April 9th with Elizabeth Havaich and Helen Misel as hostesses.
We later enjoyed a lovely social hour. Hope all our sick members are well on the road to recovery and will be back to attend our meetings.
Our prayers go out to all our boys and girls serving in the services and hope they will all return home soon.
See you all at our next meeting and hope you all had a Happy and Blessed Easter.
FRANCES STANEC
NO. 67, BESSEMER, PA
Meeting was attended by three officers, President, Ann Peterson, Ann Markovich our Treasurer and Secretary. Mary Percic. We all planned to have a Tureen at the Croatian Club in March. The three of us had a nice tureen dinner without our faithful members who said they were coming.
I even told you to mark the date on your calendar.
Clara Simončič is doing well and taking it easy. Ube Vlah had heart surgery and is doing well. Some members I don’t hear from and don’t know
FROM THE HOME OFFICE:
TILL TORY’S GARDEN CAMPAIGN-PHASE IV
As of March 1, .1991 there were 139 enrollees. This included 23 Class A (7 Junior transferees), 60 Class B (22 Junior transferees) and 56 Juniors.
how they are doing. Sure hope someone will tell me. Mary Sepie. Sari Vlah. Louise Serjak. Ann Mamlick and many other members I don't see.
We lost two members in Feb.. Angela Pusnik was 88 years old and died Feb. 19th. Mrs. Pusnik was the daughter of Anton and Frances Škerjanc and birthday was Nov. 19. 1902 in Ely. Minn. She was a member of St. Anthony in Bessemer, SNPJ. GBU. ZARJA. Br. 67 and Bessemer Senior Citizens. Husband. Carlo J. Jr.. died in 1938. She leaves a son. Merko with whom she lived in Mt. Jackson. A sister, also a member, died 5 days later. Feb. 25th. She was 92 years old. She was a resident in Allison Park. PA and was a B member.
Angela had 3 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren. We will miss her. She always sat next to me at our Senior Citizen's meetings.
Remember your mother - give her a hug for me. I lost my mother, also. We who lost our mothers say a prayer for her and the ones in nursing homes. Happy Mother's Day to all.
Don't forget the meeting and dues.
MARY PERCIC
NO. 73, WARRENSVILLE, OH
HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY to all Moms, grandmas, mothers-to-be and all "other" mothers (those women who have had to step in and take the place of someone else). We even wish a special greeting to those fathers who have to take the place of a mother in many instances. Our best wishes for a beautiful Mother's Day to each of you.
I had the privilege of attending the Board of Directors Meeting in Joliet. Illinois lo report on Convention Plans. It was a full week, and we can all be proud of what this group of officers has accomplished and their plans and goals for the future of S.W.U.- I did manage to squeeze in a few days in Cleveland lo spend with my family. It was a most welcome break — since I do miss them during our winter stay in Florida. All too soon, it will be time to close up this house and head north. I am sure the summer will pass quickly, although I try my best to make it last as long as possible.
We had a lovely note from Bernice Blatnik who filled us in on her daughter Anita Gombert. Anita was our 1980 Scholarship winner, she is presently a high-risk prenatal nurse at a
Top workers are:
Jonita Ruth (20)	19
Pauline Korpela (35)	5
Gladys Buck (16)	4
Marie Bradach (35)	4
Frances Verant (38)	4
Mary Frances Mohr (5)	3
Frances Prijatel	3
Olga Ancel (20)	3
clinic. Her husband. Carl, was granted a fellowship at Texas Tech in Lubbock, Texas, and is working towards his Ph.D. in fine arts as he teaches a course in art history. Isn't it great to hear what the younger gernation is doing with their lives'? Their confidence is so uplifting. Bernice also added to her note that they have become first-time grandparents with the arrival of Anton Blatnik III With a name like that, the blonde-blue-eyed little boy has a strong Slovene heritage to live up to, like his granpa and his dad. Congratulations to all the Blat-niks and best of luck to the Gomberts. Thank you. Bernice, for the note. Keep us posted.
Notes received from other members: Frances Kainec from Largo, Florida tells us that her grandson (Paul) will graduate in June, has consistent high grade averages and working towards a medical degree. Terrific! Rose Rapasky and Dorothy Godfrey send their best wishes to everyone; so nice to hear from you.
Junior members William Jones (mother, Kathy Vorisek) and Kathy Blatnik have transferred to our Adult Member Group. Albina (Bea) Trolli has joined us as a social member. Welcome to all of you.
Get well wishes to all our confined members, especially to Louise Bernstine who suffered a slight stroke. At the time of this writing she is confined to Euclid General Hospital. We keep all of you in our prayers and thoughts. It would be nice if other members would send greeting cards to those with health problems, regardless of how serious, it would be something to brighten up their day(s).
Top branches are:
No. 20,	Joliet, IL	22
No. 35,	Aurora, IL	14
Home Office	10
No. 14,	Cleveland, OH	8
No. 2, Chicago, IL
No. 34,	Soudan, MN	6
No. 38,	Chisholm. MN	6
No. 5, Indianapolis, IN	5
No. 16,	South Chicago, IL 5
No. 33, Duluth. MN
No. 50,	Cleveland. OH	5
No. 73, Warrensville Hts., OH 5
I look forward to seeing all of you shortly, I expect to see many of you during Convention days.
Respectfully submitted,
EVELYN A. MAJERCIK
NO. 89, OGLESBY, IL
Our April meeting opened with heavy hearts as the charter was draped for Frances Gorišek who passed away (April 5th) and was put to rest today (April 8th). We will all miss her. Her kind and loving ways make all of us better off for having known her.
Josie Argubright and Marilyn Ar-gubright lost a nephew, James Argubright, who passed away. Jim resided in the Washington, D.C. area with his family. Our heartfelt condolences go out to Frances’ family and to the Ar-gubright's on their loss.
Plans were completed for the Mother's Banquet at Bek's May 13th. Members are inviting friends as guests.
A Short business meeting followed with a talk on the National Convention to take place May 16 thru 19. Angie Nico, our liaison officer will be our delegate. We are very fortunate to be represented by her and are all very grateful for her cooperation and help.
Closing prayers were recited and the committee: Darlene Wasielewski and Eunice Komater served strawberry short cake and coffee. A beautiful vase of flowers for the centerpiece was won as a door prize by Josie Argubright. A social time followed.
Respectfully,
EUNICE KOMATER
KEEP THE CONNECTION...
Generous branches, generous members, generous readers from all parts of the country, are filling our mailbag and to all, a heartfelt note of thanks.
We hope there will be many more of you to follow suit.
It’s not that we have a quota in mind - no! Whatever you feel it is worth, to keep our connection, it is welcome and appreciated!
It gives one food for thought to realize how long it takes for a spirit to be established and how easy it is to knock it down. ZARJA is 63 years in existence. The organization is 65 years old this year - in December - and this represents two generations! We are learning, we are growing...and, we hope, getting stronger. Let’s take one thing at a time and try to build up our resources. ZARJA needs your good will. We need to know that it is all worth the cost and the effort to keep ZARJA going!
The Convention is this month and a time for serious pondering. At this important time, let’s all think ZARJA and think how we can contribute - if not ideas and materials, at least money!
Editor
A SINCERE THANK YOU to "Keep Our Connection Contributors”, which arrived during March. They are listed according to our seven regions:
California-Oregon-Washington	$	40.00
Rose Scoff (13), San Francisco, CA	$	30.00
Margaret Williams, Spokane, WA	10.00
Colorado-Kansas-Missouri	----
Illinois-Indiana	154.00
Irene Carter (2), Bridgeview, IL	100.00
Marie and Frank Scheidt (20), Joliet, IL	25.00
Branch No. 16 members:
Olga Kowalkowski	$5.00
Mary Putzell	5.00
Zinka Shesek	2.00
  12.00
Zdenka Mihelich (2), Tampa, FL	10.00
Dr. and Mrs. Joseph Bernik, Chicago,	IL	7.00
Minnesota	130.00
Branch No.	35,	Aurora, MN	100.00
Branch No.	34,	Soudan-Tower, MN	25.00
Gabriella Goritchan (35), Aurora. MN	5.00
Ohio-Michigan	62.00
Branch No.	10,	Cleveland. OH	25.00
Branch No.	50,	Cleveland, OH	25.00
Annie Bartol, Traunik, MI	5.00
Sophie Zagorc (50), Cleveland, OH	5.00
Antonia Kerzisnik (10), Cleveland, OH	2.00
Pennsylvania-New York-Washington, DC	----
Wisconsin	40.00
Branch No. 1, Sheboygan, WI	25.00
Margaret Fischer (1), Kohler, WI	15.00
Total for March	$	426.00
Previous Total	1,285.00
Grand Total	1,711.00
NO. 95, CHICAGO, IL
April showers are past and May flowers in bloom.
Our April meeting, as usual, was fruitful and enjoyable.
Our long-time members have a wonderful time exchanging family news. Poor Pres. Millie James has her hands full getting us in order!
Fifty-year pins were given to Matilda Grepo and Helen Nowicki.
National Officer, Sylvia Vuk-odinovich and Delegate, Mary Brozynski discussed the upcoming convention, Sylvia also stressed the need for new members.
A point of interest was that nationally there are 200 members over the age of 90 years young, and 14 over 100 years!
Sympathy was extended to Virginia Kwiatkowski on the death of her husband.
Congratulations to Regina Buchanan on the election of her son, John, as Alderman of the 10th Ward in South Chicago!
Plans for our dinner honoring all members were finalized - May 1st at Sacred Heart School Hall, 6 p.m. Guests are welcome.
Vice President Anne Yosue picked her own name for Split-the-Pot. Hmmm! Evelyn Driscoll shared the honors.
We welcomed Janice Bercich, Millie’s lovely daughter, who attended. She advised us that her son is a sophomore football player at Notre Dame.
Refreshments were served by hostesses, Marge Krmpotic, Frances Ben-kovich, Helen Alb, Marge O’Connor and Millie James.
Sick member, Emma Yergovich, was present and cheered on.
Thanks to Helen Ciechowski for aiding hostesses.
Smiles were worn by winners-Ann Granich, Mary Toporis, Mary M. Per-kovich, Manda	Dosen,	Marge
Nicksic, Frances Benkovith, Lois Chereso, Janice Bercich, Helen Ciechowski and Emma Yergovich. Sorry if I missed some names.
MARIE MARAS
NO. 100, FONTANA, CA
Our February meeting was held at the home of Henrietta Bledsoe. At that meeting our new member, Maggie Gerstenberger was initiated by Presi-
IN LOVING MEMORY
Departed Members	
3 - Angela Sepesi (83)	23 - Mary Niemi (67)
56-yr member	36-yr member
8 - Mary Messersmith (80)	25 - Anna Brodnik (84)
62-yr member	46-yr member
10 - Molly Jenko (84)	Marion Senkar (98)
34-yr member	54-yr member
14 - Josephine Kozlevčar (71)	31 - Frances Potočnik (85)
55-yr member	51-yr member
Frances Plevnik (97)	33 - Anna Novak (88)
63-yr member	51-yr member - Charter
Rose Sabec (95)	38 - Anna Mahne (87)
57-yr member	57-yr member
19 - Leola Brewster (78)	73 - Louise Liska (74)
41-yr member	42-yr member
Mary F Wolf (70)	102 - Hannah Kokaly (84)
12-yr member	28-yr member
20 Josephine Karl (84)	
50-yr member	
dent, Ann Kapel. Plans were made for our Polichinke breakfast on March
3.	Chris Costell was elected as the Mother of the Year. Our next meeting was planned for March 7 at Carol Harley’s home.
We had a very nice turn-out at the Polichinke breakfast. Thanks again Frank & Mary Lou Vidergar, and the others who helped cook. It was delicious.
The prize basket looked wonderful. Thanks to everyone who donated to the basket, and to the cake walk. Everyone had a very good time. Lucky Bill Ooms was the big winner of the basket.
We had some guests at this breakfast. Sylvia Baraga was visiting from Chisholm, MN. Rosemary Gomik, niece of former National Pres., Antonia Turek was also present. Also visiting us was Ed Nimich of Fullerton, CA with August Gulen from Ljubljana. We were glad to have them all there and hope they enjoyed themselves.
Our March 7 meeting was chaired by Mary Lou Vidergar, Vice Pres, in the absence of Ann Kapel, who could not attend due to the death of her uncle. Our sympathies to Ann and the family.
We again discussed our Corporate Communion at St. Joseph Church April 7 at 9:00 a.m. Mass, followed by a brunch at Marie Callendar’s in Fontana. Our Mother of the Year dinner was planned for the first week in May at Bon Apetito Restaurant in San Bernardino. We will know the exact date at our April meeting.
We again heard about the National Convention held in May this year. There seems to be a good, full schedule of events planned. Branch 100 will be hosting the Western States Convention this year, which we plan to hold on Sunday, September 1. Some sites were discussed, and further plans will be made later. Dorothy Pet-rich will host the next meeting ~
As you may know, California has had a serious drought, but fortunately, in the last month we have had a lot of rain, and snow in our nearby mountains, and the scenery is just beautiful. It’s Spring on the calendar now. I take this opportunity to wish all mothers a Happy Mothers Day.
LINDA COSTELL
NO. 102, WILLARD, WI
Greetings everyone! Spring has sprung, the robins are back and the deer are coming out from their winter refuges, looking for that first green grass to eat. Soon their little fawns willk be coming along with them; they are a beauty to see.
The Palm Sunday Bake Sale was big success. Thank you, ladies, for such a nice variety of Easter goodies. Your cooperation is super.
Our next event was the Plant Sale on Apr. 28. By then gardening is in full sving. The tulips are already com-ming up.
May brings us the 50th Anniversary of Br. #102. More on this in the next issue. The National Convention will be another important event. I’m very sorry to report that our selected delegate will not be able to attend due to illness and treatments. Anne Collier would have been an excellent representative. Keep on fighting. Anne! As alternate, I will take her place. Looking forward to a successful Convention and meeting old friends.
AMERICAN
SLOVENIAN
CATHOLIC
UNION
LIFE INSURANCE FOR THE FAMILY
HOME OFFICE: 243) GLENWOOD AVENUE • JOLIET, IL 60435 (815) 741-2001
I just received a letter from my niece, Beverly Niehaus, of Eagle River, Wis., who came up with a super idea for honoring her grandmother, my mother, Anna Volovsek. Beverly sent the names of her grandparents, Frank Volovsek and Anna (Flis) Volovsek, along with a check for $200.00, to the Statue of Liberty
—	Ellis Island Foundation, Inc., to include their names on the American Immigrant Wall of Honor. This is to be a gift to “Grandma” from all her 42 grandchildren, for her 98th birthday on April 19. What a lovely thought and at such an appropriate time. Grandma Anna is the only living charter member of our Branch #102. Thank You, Beverly, for the wonderful gesture!
Beverly also sent me pictures of the 3rd and 4th generations making Christmas potica. So nice to see tradition being kept and passed on to the younger generation! The results looked excellent!
A few of our members took some time off to do a little traveling to shorten the winter months. Frank and Rose Pakiz visited relatives in McAllen, Texas. Vitko and Mary Staut also went to Texas, to Fort Worth, to visit with daughter, Mary Anne and husband, Mike Friedman. Frank and Jean Govek spend the winter in Yuma, Arizona, and should be returning shortly.
Happy Mothers Day to all!
MARY STAUT Reporter
NO. 103, WASHINGTON, D.C.
In April, rather than conduct our meeting in the usual place, we convened in a meeting room at the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception immediately following Mass which was held in the Slovenian Chapel. The Masses are held on the first Sunday of each month, and many visitors come here to celebrate Mass, and then take time to tour this most beautiful Shrine. The Shrine cafeteria was a convenient place to get a snack, and to socialize with our friends. We couldn’t have ordered a more perfect day for our visit to the Shrine. The weather was absolutely beautiful and, of course, as you all know, springtime here in the Nation’s Capitol is so lovely. The flowers abound everywhere; when some fade away, others are quick to replace them. The many flowering trees are also breathtaking in their abundance.
Attendance at our meeting was very good, and the participation excellent. We discussed many items regarding the upcoming events, especially those during the month of May. Of course, we discussed the agenda of the National Convention to be held in Cleveland, Ohio. The many activities scheduled there are almost overwhelming. At present, we hope to have representation from Branch 103, and those who will not able to attend, will be anxiously awaiting to hear reports of this great event.
Needless to say, we all hope and pray that all goes well at the Convention; that everyone will arrive there safely; that everyone will have a wonderful time; and that this will be one of our best. Congratulations to all the wonderful individuals in Cleveland who worked so hard to make this a success, which we all know it will be.
Our very best wishes to all from Branch 103.
MATILDA AUSICH, Rec. Secretary
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS GRATITUDE.....................
Because my mom was a charter member of Br. 74 of Ambridge, PA and she would approve of the continuation of the ZARJA, I enclose a donation of $10. Jane Hudak Enclosed is a $10 donation. I was bom and raised in Joliet and now live in Spokane, WA. ZARJA keeps me in touch with branch members and activities. I love it and please keep it coming. Sincerely, Beverly Ashway Williams
Enclosed is a $10 check to help towards the ZARJA. Frances Ogoreuc Am enclosing a check for $15 to cover my subscription and donation to the fund. I do enjoy getting the magazine. Annie Bartol
Yes, we should do something to help our ZARJA. Enclosed money order for $30. I remember my good days as State President of Cal-Ore-Wash. for ten conventions. I met so many great people and made friends. I love you all. Rose Scoff
On behalf of Br. 89 of Olgesby, IL, its officers and members, we wish to donate $20.00 towards the ZARJA. We all enjoy the magazine very much and wish we could help more. Sincerely, Josephine Argubright, Oglesby, IL.
Thank you for everything. Enclosed is $10 for the printing fund from Mama and I. Jean (Daisy) Železnikar, Burr Ridge, IL
Enclosed find check for “Keep Our Connection.’’ Love, Prayers. Alouise Epley, No. Randall, OH.
Enclosed is a $25 donation for the much needd ZARJA Printing Fund. I eagerly await the monthly publication and very often pass it on to my neighbors, the young homemakers! Sincerely, Josephine Misic, Cleveland, OH.
Greetings from Wisconsin! Enclosed is a check for $10 to help the ZARJA Printing Fund. I’ve enjoyed the magazine ever since my mom, Veronica Schwartz joined the Slovenian Women's Union in Keewatin, MN in 1937! She is now a member of Hibbing, MN, Br. 56. By the way, she celebrated her 98th birthday on St. Patrick's Day. Best wishes for the continuance of our excellence magazine headed by an equally excellent editor! Frances (Friizie) Furlong, Menomonie, Wl.
Best Wishes for
A HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY to all members!
from
Br. 42, Maple Hts., Ohio
IreneM. Odorizzi 2362 Paddock Lane Reston, Va. 22091
THE NEXT GENERATION
“Linking the Past with the Future”
PART III
Continued
Mary Ann has remembrances of her Grandma. "She cared for us when we were small and my mother was working in the kitchen. I can recall washing the wooden steps outside every Saturday on my hands and knees. That was my weekly job and had to be finished before I could do anything else. Somehow I hated doing it but after it was finished she give me a hug and kiss. Grandma was affectionate. Thinking back now it seemed so useless to wash steps that were outside but 1 guess you can chalk it up to her training. I guess she wanted to toughen me up because the restaurant business is hard and she knew what was ahead of me.
Grandma also gave Mary Ann her Slovenian Spaghetti recipe. It differs from Italian spaghetti because it has meat in it. That item is on the restaurant menu and is very popular.
In 1953, Mary Ann and Joe Spelich met at her 18th birthday party given at the restaurant by her Grandma. The Spelich’s were good customers and were invited. Since their son, Joe, was home on leave from the Army, he also came. After writing letters and dating, they were married the following year.
Joe worked at Fitzgerald's Furniture Store until they opened up Spelich's Liquor Store on Midland and Jefferson Sts. in 1968. Husband and wife worked at the liquor store and Mary Ann also worked at the Restaurant in the evening. When they closed the liquor store in 1973, Joe worked part time at Markelz Office Supply full time and part time at the restaurant behind the bar and whatever other jobs had to be done.
Their one child, a daughter, Cindy, began to work as a waitress in the true Stefanich tradition at the age of thirteen. She liked earning tips and having her own money and soon she was “hooked." Grandma had cared for Cindy for the first year after her birth and then had passed away at the age of seventy-nine. The first generation had made way for the fourth.
PART IV
Sounds of Celebration
The First Fifty Years
In 1983, Stefanich’s observed its fiftieth anniversary. Mary Ann had planned for this special weeklong event for some time and looked forward to the most perfect celebration possible but, alas, that was not to be the case.
One week prior to the celebration her daughter. Cindy, the fourth generation, married Larry Fornango and the
® Copyright 1991 Irene M. Planinšek Odorizzi
garden reception was held at the Spelich's. Mary Ann developed pneumonia and was hospitalized for a week, and through devisive tactics her mother, Christine didn't even know of her serious condition. She called her mother and said, “I’m sick at home with a bad cold. Don't call me. I'll call you.”
The week long festivities began in June with a big cocktail party in honor of her mother, Christine Kuzma, representing the second generation. It was very successful and everyone had a nice time. Mary Ann was optimistic about the remainder of the week. However, she said, "It turned out to be the worst summer of my life. It was horrible...just horrible!
"On the second night, things started to happen: one freezer went out and then the following night the cooler ceased to function. The temperature was in the high nineties and it was hot, hot hot. One of the hotest summers ever in Joliet.
“We had rented a huge tent which was set up in the parking lot to accommodate patrons but with so much heat and no breeze for relief they couldn't be comfortable under the tent. Hot dogs and sausages were served outdoors in the back for those who wanted them.
"Bob Dozak’s Orchestra played and additional power had been installed for all their amplifiers as well as the other demands but there was still a strain on the system.
"Budsweiser had sent their horses for the anniversary because we were one of the bigger stops in the city and I was thrilled anticipating their arrival in the huge van. It was a treat that they would be there to celebrate our event however the horses could not take the heat and the air-con-ditioning in the van ceased to work. Fans had to be set up to keep the horses cool. To make things even worse, the horses had messed up on the street and the "fragrance” was somewhat overwhelming.
"In all of this confusion and intense heat no one could sit in the restaurant either and the waitress had to take orders and serve people outdoors. It wasn’t unusual to hear a waitress call out, "Who ordered two chicken dinners with...
"This event culminized the worst summer of my life.
I don’t even want to tell you how much money was lost on the event. Regardless of the financial loss and all of the other problems that summer, the most important aspect of the event was that my mother and a number of my aunts who had started the restaurant with my grandma were still living and they enjoyed it thoroughly. My mother and aunts even had the opportunity to speak on T.V. over WJRC because we had television coverage of the event."
The Stefanich's kitchen is small: the size it originally was fifty years ago. Up to eight people work in the kitchen in kind of an assembly line fashion. Dishes are washed by hand because there is no space for a dishwasher.
The front walls of the restaurant are decorated with
The Stefanich Story
The “Budweiser Horses” came to Joliet when the Stefanich’s celebrated their anniversary in 1945.
family photos tracing Stefanich’s history. The lovely front door, from the World's Fair, bears a diamond shaped stained glass which depicts the initial "S” and which is surrounded by dogwood flowers with blue, pink, green and beige borders.
The rear walls are covered with photos of entertainers who played the beautiful Rialto Theater and then came to Stefanich’s for dinner. People like Liberace, Oprah Winfrey, Frankie Yankovic, Joan Rivers, Debbie Reynolds, Victor Borge, Gatlin Brothers, The Manhattan Transfer. Tony Butala of the Lettermen, signed his photo with, "Kako Ti Dobro.”
The Fornangos, Cindy and Larry, are now closely associated with Mary Ann in the business. The fourth generation has proven true to its heritage and hopefully Slovenes in Joliet can proudly point to this family and their business establishment as carrying on the family tradition in the fifth, and sixth generation. Who knows after that.
The annual Christmas party has been a tradition for many years. Prior to the Christmas vacation closing. Stefanich’s gives a party "on the house" for about forty of their most frequent customers. That one day is set aside for the customers to eat, drink, dance and be merry. It's
Pauline
Catherine
Mary Ann's husband, Joseph Spelich served in the Army during World War II. He is now deceased.
John behind the bar, 1944. The little girl with the braids in the background, is Mary Ann, age 11.
a way of Stefanich's saying, we appreciate your patronage and this is our way of saying thank-you.
There is definitely a friendly atmosphere in a family like setting. Even strangers notice this. On one occasion Mary Ann tells the story of a reporter for Channel 11 WGTW who came unexpectedly for dinner on a Friday evening. He was writing an article on ethnic restaurants.
"I didn't know' who he was. He had a little girl who could w alk and a little boy he carried. It was very crowded that night and people were standing and pushing three deep."
"How long for a table," he inquired.
1 responded. "1 don't know. I know you have the little ones. 1 hate to lie and say less time but it probably will be twenty minutes."
"Can we stand at the bar and eat?"
"Yeah, if you can find a space," I answered.
"Well there was a couple sitting close by and they heard the conversation and said, "Let the little girl and boy sit here." The couple didn't know them from Adam but were sympathetic to this family. Well, he and his wife stood up at the bar and ate as the children sat at the table.
When they were ready to leave he told Mary Ann. "I'm from Channel WGTW."
She replied. "You are!"
"Yes. I'm here writing an article." You can imagine what went through Mary Ann's mind at that point. What is he going to say? Everything was wrong for him. However. when the article appeared he did mention, "The excellent whitefish and chicken. They made me feel welcome." What more could Mary Ann ask for?
Sharing tables is not unusual. Many times friends or relatives will spot a person waiting for a table and invite them over. That friendliness makes Stefanich's a special kind of place which keeps customers coming back.
Stefanich's Restaurant has been there since 1933, not only for the rich and famous but for the hungry. People come over and over again. Stefanich's is a part of Joliet history and Slovene history. Moreover it is family history ~ a history that stands for longevity, loyalty, friendly staff, fine food and loyal l. tomers.
Most important is the fact that this remarkable story is the history of four generation of Slovene women. A tradition which started with a hard-working Slovene immigrant lady who would not be defeated as she struggled to build a life for herself and her nine children is being kept alive by the third and fourth generations.
The strength and perseverance which she possessed
Mary Ann Kuzma Spelich
appears to have been passed down through the succeeding generations.
After her retirement, Anna's daughter, Christine, said. "If I had to do it over again I’d do the same thing.” Her daughter Mary Ann, confessed, “It’s in my blood!”
Hopefully, Stefanich's will remain in the blood of future generations and not only will the sign on the building reflect a family history but an immigrant family’s success story in America.
THE END
Many thanks to Jonita Ruth for setting up an appointment to interview Mary Ann Spelich, proprietor of Stefanich's Restaurant and for assisting with the photos. Kenneth and I had a very interesting interview and we enjoyed hearing about this very dynamic family.
Since this story was written some pertinent information came to my attention and I thought I would share it wiht the readers since it relates to the Persian Gulf War.
During World War II, Anna Stefanich showed her patriotism and support for the Joliet troops by offering each one a dinner when he returned home after the war. Her granddaughter, Mary Anne Spelich has decided to continue that tradition and has promised 180 chicken dinners thus far.
Throughout the restaurant one can find yellow bows hanging from the ceiling. Each bow has the name, rank and hometown of a military man or woman stationed in the Persian Gulf from Will County. Upon return, as each one goes to Stefanich's to claim his or her bow, Mary Anne will present a complimentary chicken dinner.
A roster in the center of the restaurant lists those names already accounted for and gives customers a chance to see if a bow has been made for their relative or friend. Mary Anne Spelich has been assisted in this venture by her daughter Cindy, son-in-law Rick as well as JoAnne Molnar and Wally Seneker of Wally's Florist.
A special thank you to Rev. Athanasius Lovrenčič for his assistance in researching the marriage and death records of Anna and John Stefanich in the St. Joseph's Church record books. These dates helped in placing a number of events in the proper time frame. I appreciate his time in locating these dates.
Irene M. Odorizzi
Slovenian Women’s Union Heritage Museum
“ZLATI ČASI — GOLDEN TIMES”
The Slovenian Women's Union is proud to entertain you with a 25-minute slide presentation of the Slovenian Women's Union. If you are interested in viewing this two-projection slide show, professionally prepared for our organization, contact theSWU HERITAGE MUSEUM in Joliet, IL.
DONATIONS REQUESTED
Artifacts, Memorabilia, Ancestral Keepsakes, Photos, Rare Books and Mementoes from Slovenia are being accepted by the SWU Heritage Museum for display.
Donations are also being accepted ($100.00) for the Memorial Plaque displayed in the SWU Heritage Museum. You may have your name, or that of a friend or relative, engraved on a metal plate and displayed on the walnut plaque housed in the Museum.
Donations of lesser amounts are recognized with a lovely blue gift card. Acknowledge someone’s birthday, anniversary or special occasion with this unique remembrance. Memorial cards are available for the deceased. This is a lovely way to remember an immigrant of Slovene descent, one of the reasons why the Heritage Museum is in existence.
MUSEUM GIFTS
With “It’s In Every S(LOVE)nian” motif:
Butcher Apron/W/adjustable strap (red or blue) .................................... $18.50
T-shirts (children SML - adults SML and XLG)	............................... 8.00
Buttons ............................................................................. 1.00
Sport Cap ........................................................................... 6.00
Tote Bag ............................................................................ 7.00
Bumper Stickers ..................................................................... 0.50
“Think Heritage”
Key Chain ........................................................................... 2.00
Rainbow Pen ........................................................................ 1.25
Package of four note cards w/envelopes ..................................................... 1.00
Slovenian costume pattem-\<bmen’s size (adjustable from	10	to 18) ..................... 4.00
Records and 8-tracks and cassettes ................................................. Average	8.00
Slovenian Women’s Union logo t-shirts (white-tan-beige)	(ML	and XLG) ................... 8.00
Books: “Let’s Sing” (words only to Slovenian songs) ........................................ 1.00
POTS and PANS (Slovenian-International Cookbook) ............................................ 9.00
Books on Slovenian Immigrants and Pioneers:
“From Slovenia to America” by Marie Prisland:
Hardbound ..................................................................   5.00
Softbound .................................................................... 3.50
“Footsteps Through Time” by Irene Odorizzi, hardbound ............................... 6.00
Grammar book by Gobetz-Loncar, Vol. 1 ...................................................... 10.00
“Flowers from My Garden” -- Slovenian-English Poems by	Mary Stangelj Murn ................... 8.50
Slovenian-English dictionary ............................................................... 12.00
“Pepca’s Struggles” by Josephine Janezic ................................................... 16.00
New items are continually added to the stock of merchandise. When ordering PLEASE add $1.50 per item for postage and handling $3.50 for Canadian orders). Send your request with check to:
SLOVENIAN WOMEN’S UNION HERITAGE MUSEUM 431 N. Chicago St., Joliet, IL 60432
KAREL MAUSER
RAZDRTO GNEZDO
Brž, ko je stopila čez porto, jo je sprejel novemberski večer. Deževati je začelo že popoldne, toda kmalu se je dež spremenil v rosenje, v katero, so se primešale snežinke. Tako je vse šlo do noči in bilo je kazno, da bo mrzel veter že ponoči ugnal dež in pustil prosto pot samo še snegu.
Ogrnjena v težak črn pled je sestra Marjeta po svoji navadi pogledala v šilasto okno kapele, v katerem je odseval sij večne luči. Tako je delala že vseh pet let, vselej, ko se je odpravljala na nočno službo. Prinesla je to navado iz noviciata in jo obdržala kot prijetno skrivnost. Kadarkoli je zvečer odhajala k bolnikom, je nesla to luč v srcu s seboj in jo v mislih porazdelila k vsaki postelji, mimo katere je šla.
S	kakšnim strahom je pred leti prvič sama odhajala na nočno zameno. Vedela je vse, kar je morala vedeti, toda občutek, da bo s težkimi bolniki vendar ostala sama, jo je napolnjeval s toliko plašnostjo, da je molila vso pot od porte do internega oddelka. Počasi se je navadila in ko je prvič zasledovala smrtni boj bolnika, je šele čutila, da je prestala zadnjo težko preskušnjo v svojem sesterskem življenju.
Na hodniku je srečala staro sestro Jožefino, ki je gledala v signalno rdečo lučko na steni. Samo pozdravili sta se in sestra Jožefina je s svojo staro, značilno hojo odšla v sobo na desni strani. Eden izmed bolnikov jo je klical.
Sestra Marjeta je z razsvetljenega hodnika tiho
V prejšnjem stoictju so prišle iz Pariza v LJUBLJANO usmiljenke ali bolniške sestre iz reda sv. Vincencija Pavelskega, kjer so sprejele v največji bolnici postrežbo za bolnike. Bile so oblečene v težka plava krila, na glavi so nosile velika bela pokrivala ali kornete. Zelo zmožne redovnice! Z nastopom komunizma v Sloveniji 1. 1945 so morale kot redovne sestre bolnišnico zapustiti.
stopila v veliko sobo in takoj, ko je zaprla vrata, snela pled (ogrinjalo) ter ga obesila čez roko. Večina bolnikov še ni spala, nekateri so jo pozdravili, nekateri samo molče gledali, ko je šla po sredi med posteljami. Na vsaki strani jih je bilo dvajset. Soba je bila kakor velika dvorana.
Odzdravljala je potihoma in odšla v kuhinjo na koncu. Ko je odložila pled, je za čas še postala pri vratih, ki so gledala na vrt. Ob lučih, ki so gorele zunaj, je videla goste, težke snežinke, ki so z dežjem vred napošev padale na tla.
Šele nato je odšla proti sobici, ki je bila tik ob kuhinji. Bil je to prostor za zadnjo uro. Mati prednica ga je imenovala vežico pred večnostjo. Sem so vselej prenesli tiste bolnike, ki so zavoljo težkega hropenja med manj bolnimi povzročali potrtost in pobitost. Tu se je navadno stekla zadnja ura tistim, za katere zdravniki niso imeli več pomoči. Nekateri so čakali nanjo samo nekaj ur, nekateri dneve dolgo.
Sestra Marjeta se je najbolj bala zamene v tej sobici. V prvem letu je po vsaki smrti čutila, da je tudi sama umrla. S solzami v očeh je gledala za nosili, ki sta jih dva strežnika pri zadnjih vratih odnesla na osmi oddelek - v mrtvašnico. Z rjuho pokrito telo je končalo svoj boj z življenjem. S časom se je navadila tudi te sobice, navadila vzdihovanja sorodnikov - včasih iskrenega, včasih narejenega - toda na dnu srca je strah vendarle ostal. V tej sobici je bila brez moči, ničesar ni mogla storiti - le od časa do časa potegniti z glicerinom namočeno vato prek razžganih bolnikovih ustnic, obrisati pot, popraviti vzglavje; to je bilo vse. In ko so mrliča odnesli, še zadnje opravilo; ugasiti svečo, razkopati posteljo, sneti tablico z imenom mrtvega in na široko odpreti okna. Vselej, ko je stala sredi praznega prostora, je med palcem in kazalcem pomikala debele jagode svojega redovnega rožnega venca in tako umrlega spremljala do osmega oddelka.
Sestra Alfonza se je dvignila s stola, brž, ko je sestra prišla.
"Mislim, da ne bo več dolgo,” je tiho rekla. “Že od popoldne je v nezavesti. Dežurni zdravnik je bil pri njem pred eno uro. Svečo sem postavila tja na mizico.”
“Kdo je to noč dežurni zdravnik, sestra Alfonza?”
“Doktor Polec. Prečastiti gospod Slana so bili tukaj takoj za zdravnikom. Deli so ga v sveto olje. Vse je urejeno."
“Diha še skoraj enakomerno, čeprav s čudnim piskanjem”.
Sestra Marjeta je stopila k postelji.
"Zunaj je zelo grdo - dež in sneg. Pazite, da vam ne spodrsne zunaj." Sestra Alfonza je odšla in tiho zaprla vrata. Tišino nočnih ur v bolnici je sestra Marjeta vedno dojemala na svoj način. Čutila jo je kakor poplavo milosti, ki prihaja za uteho trpljenju vsem ljudem. Vedno znova in znova so ji v zadnjih letih prihajale živo v spomin besede stare voditeljice
v noviciatu: Ko boste dovolj globoko v svojem poklicu, boste iz dneva v dan bolj čutile, da so bolniški prostori tisti kraji, kjer je večnost najbolj blizu časnosti. Posebno v nočeh, ko boste bedele ob težkih bolnikih. Skušajte takrat večnost grabiti v svoje duše, toliko hudega, hčerke, vas še čaka. Brez tega zaklada v duši boste težko vzdržale.
Kakšna mešanica dekliških značajev je bila tedaj v noviciatu. Kmečka in meščanska dekleta, nekatera plašna, stopajočih po prstih na hodnikih, nekatera kakor plameni, ki so hoteli izgoreti v nekaj mesecih. Bile so tudi vmes sladke stvarce, ki jih je težko prenašala; in spet dekleta, tako zaprta vase, da se jim niti v prostih urah ni mogla približati.
Kosti v postelji so hrople, potipala je žilo. Čudno trzajoče je krožila kri. Tako je pred dolgimi leti umiral njen oče in že včeraj se ji je zdelo, da mu je ta bolnik celo podoben. Majhna glava z ozkim vencem sivih las, košate obrvi, ki so na izsušenem obrazu videti še bolj košate in šilast nos. Tedaj so stanovali pri stricu, očetovem bratu, ki se je bil priženil na Vodice, v vasico visoko v hribu. Živeli so nad kaščo, v starem poslopju zidanem iz kamna. Soba in kuhinja to je bilo vse, kar so imeli. Oče je bil zavirač na vlaku, majhna pokojnina mu ni dala, da bi se naselil kje drugje. Edina materina sestra je bila poročena na gorenjskem, v Gorjah. Oče je bil tak, da se bolj držal svojega sorodstva.
V	tistem času je prvič prišel v vas Žunov Slave, najmlajši sin kmetiča Žuna. Bila sta istih let, tudi v šolo sta hodila skupaj. Neroden fant!
Sestra Marjeta je sedla na stol in se zagledala v umirajočega. Usta so mu bila zdaj na pol odprta, veke modrikaste in na pol voščene. Modrina je prihajala tudi od nohtov in počasi lezla navzgor po rokah.
Pričela je moliti, toda končala je samo prvo
desetko na velikih jagodah. Dežurni zdravnik je tiho vstopil, vstala je, se odmaknila od postelje. S prsti mu je dvignil veke, bolnikov pogled je srepo strmel mimo njega.
“Ne more biti več dolgo,” je rekel.
Odšel je od vzgavja h končnici in se naslonil nanjo.
“Stvari tudi sicer niso posebno dobre, sestra Marjeta. Ste kdaj v zadnjem času računali, da bi morali obleko, ki jo nosite, sleči?
Plašno ga je pogledala.
“Mati Doroteja nam je ob neki priliki mimogrede namignila na to možnost Toda ne verjamem, da bi do tega prišlo.
Ni ji odgovoril naravnost. Tiho je odšel, kakor je prišel. Bežno vprašanje dežurnega zdravnika jo je zagnalo v docela novo razmišljanje. Saj so v prosti uri v zadnjem času klepetičile tudi o tej zadevi, toda nobena od sestra ni mislila resno. Sestra Vendelina je s šalo vsako resno razmišljanje iztirila. Le kakšna bi bila stara sestra Jožefina spet v civilnih cunjah. In mati prednica? Posnemala ju je, kako vlačita košaro, kako sopihata? Toda zdaj ji je postalo nenadoma tesno in neprijetno. Kaj, če bi se res zgodilo, da bi morala sleči redovno obleko in se vrniti v civilno življenje? V petih letih skupnepa življenja, ki ga je urejal natančno določeni red. Življenje zunaj se ji je zdelo razbito in negotovo. Kam naj bi šla? Dobrih pet let matere ni več.
Tako zlahka se je vživela v sestrsko skupnost. Učenje in priprava za poklic sta jo napolnili z neznansko srečo. Bila je srečna, resnično srečna. Ko si je sama uredila beli, široki kornet (pokrivalo) in s sestro Vendelino je stopala po stezi proti bolniškemu poslopju. Bila je na cilju!
Kako naj bi iz sestre Marjete postala zopet Anca?
—	Nadaljevanje
DOPISI
ŠT. 10, COLLINWOOD, OH
Pod dolgem času se vam oglašam zopet z malo mojih vrstic. Imeli smo letos malo čudno zimo, muhasto vreme. Dosti ljudi je bilo prehlajenih, tudi meni ni prizaneslo. Danes, ko to pišem, smo pa na pragu pomladi!
Včeraj je bil zelo slovesen dan in tudi velik praznik. Dan sv. Jožefa, družinskega patrona in poglavarja svete družine. Tega časti ves katoliški svet - je v zgodovini naše vere. Med nami je veliko ljudi - oseb, ki imajo ime tega velikega svetnika. Ne smemo pozabiti mnogo naših znancev in prijateljev s tem lepim in priljubljenim imenom.
Torej vsem Jožetom in Jožicam
želimo vse najboljše in najlepše, predvsem pa ljubega zdravja, katerega smo najbolj potrebni.
Danes smo imeli sestanek naše podružnice. Ko sem vesela prišla domov in sem imela čas, sem pričela brskati po starih knjiigah in koledarjih, sem odprla Ave Maria koledar iz leta 1957. Zanimivo, našla sem dneve in datume kot letošnje leto. Veliko lepega in zanimivega sem v starem koledarju prebrala. Zagledala sem se tudi v sliko naše Marije Pomagaj, tako lepe na ovitku samem. Še bom prebirala stare nabožne liste in gotovo kaj zanimivega našla. Starodavne slike naših slovenskih cerkva so posebna znamenitost. Ena od teh je Šmarna gora in prav na Bin-koštno nedeljo bo 33 let, ko sva
bile s prijateljico tam pri nedeljski maši. Kako lepa je ta cerkev, strop je ves poslikan s krasnimi podobami. Kakšno zanimivo branje iz nekjdanjih časov, kako so na goro vozili zvonove!
Vsem priporočam: čitajte stare naše AVE MARIE.
* * *
Kakor rečeno in storjeno je pri naši podružnici izvoljen nov odbor
-	nova predsednica - Dorothy Žagar - sekretarka je ostala in zapisnikarica - po starem, ga. Sušel in ga. Stefančič in podpredsednica ga. Štefi Segulin.
V	preteklem letu in tudi že letos smo izgubili pri naši podružnici več članic. Prav danes je bil pogreb od gospe Lojzke Lavrich, ki je živela na 159 Cesti. - In več drugih je bilo bolnih in v bolnicah. Članica
Lojzka je bila na obeh očeh operirana in na nogah - zelo težko bolna zadnje čase - tudi sladkorno bolezen je imela. Tudi ga. Lenassi je bila operirana. Gerič Anica, tudi še ni dolgo, ko se je vrnila domov. Potom tudi ga. Zora Merkulik je bila en teden v bolnici in več drugih. Gripa razsaja vse povsod - še sedaj z repom oteple kot ta muhasta. Res čudna zima, pa vendar smo ji le prišli na kraj.
Prav kmalu bo treba pripraviti naš vrt; še malo, pa bomo tarnali, da nam je vroče. Kajne, da je res, da čas hiti naprej, ne nazaj. Nazaj pušča samo spomine. Gospa Mili Novak - ona je v 90 letu, pa še vedno dela domače nudelne. Te nudelne dela, pa vse daruje - največ za Oltarno društvo; tudi meni večkrat prav rada daruje. Seveda, tudi bolezen jo kdaj obišče!
Vsem želim dobro zdravje in zadovoljne dni in leta naprej. Kateri ste izgubili svoje drage - vsem izrekam v imenu podružnice iskreno sožalje!
Duše naših umrlih naj počivajo v miru božjem!
Na vrata nam že trka lepa Velika noč, najlepši in največji praznik v letu - posebno v pomladnem času. Kadar pride v aprilu, je zares lepa. Lansko leto sem narezala vejice od breskev na Cvetno nedeljo, nato sem jih potaknila v vazo, o kako, so še cvetele za Veliko noč!
Vsem skupaj zares želim lepe praznike v zdravju, miru in v božjem veselju. Kje je lepše življenje kakor med svojimi dobrimi vernimi prijatelji in znanci!
T. FERRACCIOLI
ŠT. 17, WEST ALLIS, Wl
Želim vsem članicam prav dobro zdravje in veselje sedaj, ko pomlad prihaja in narava je lepa.
Naša podpredsednica Lillian Hartman je “Naša Mati za Leto 1991" (Mother of the Year). Naša podružnica #17 bo spet imela "Dinner" pri Kegel’s Inn na So. 59
&	National v sredo 8. Maja, 1991 ob 1. uri pop. da počastimo našo Lillian. Ona je veliko delala v korist naše Zveze. Le pridite in razveselite njo.
Naj se spominjamo našo Organizator S.Ž.Z. #17 Josephine Schlosar, katera je nas zapustila 28. marca 1991. Dočakala je što
letnico 12. februarja. Naj ji bog da večni mir in pokoj! Njena hčerka Jackie Nimmer je tudi ustanovnica naše podružnice. Izrekamo ji našo globoko sožalje!
Naj se spominjamo članice Julia Taci, Mater od prejšnje podpredsednice Vickie Kastelic, katera je umrla pred kratkim. Naj počiva v miru.
Naša podružnica lepo napreduje in udelžba je vedno dobra.
Želim lep uspeh na prihodnji konvenciji v maju!
JOSEPHINE IMPERL, Poročevalka
ŠT. 25, CLEVELAND, OH
Mami...
Mami, mami, kako si te želim, kako srce mi hrepeni po tvoji ljubezni, po tvojemu objemu, po tvojemu dobremu nasvetu...
Ostali so mi lepi spomini na tebe -mami. Tvojo ljubezen še vedno občutim ob sebi. Saj materina ljubezen je kakor večni plamen, ki nikdar ne ugasne...
CIRILA KERMAVNER
ŠT. 68, FAIRPORT HRB., OH
Pristopili smo v pomlad na dan 20. marca ob deseti uri zvečer in dve minuti, Dan 21. marca to je prvi pomladanski dan v tem zadnjem desetletju, ko gremo proti 2. tisočletju.
Minulo leto nam je prineslo nepričakovano, čudežno mnogo sprememb, katerih nismo pričakovali. In to, svobodne več strankarske proste volitve za samostojno Slovenijo in to ravno nekaj dni pred Božičem na dan 23. decembra 1990; 88%, volivcev se je udeležilo teh volitev. Vse druge pomembne novice na tem mestu ne bom opisovala. Vem, da kdor je tam živel in preživel prvo in drugo svetovno vojsko, z zanimanjem prebira ameriške in slovenske časopise, ne zamudi novic na T.V. in radio.
Dosti je še živih Slovencev in drugih narodnosti ljudi iz Jugoslavije, ki se zanimajo, kaj se sedaj tam dogaja. Strah imajo, da se ne bi ponovilo 1945 leto. Se po tolikih letih, še niso rane zaceljene. Vsi, ki imamo še tam svoje drage, želimo le to, da ne bi bilo vojske,
da bi se mirnim potom pogovorili in skupno pošteno gospodarili. Saj vsi vemo, da je težko spreminjati svet po 45 letih, spreminjanjem samega sebe. Spominjam se, ko sem bila še otrok 1918 leta, koje Avstrija kapitulirala, vsa vas se je skupaj zbrala, stari, mladi in otroci, sredi vasi. Pod stoletno lipo je nanjo splezal godec s harmoniko in zaigral srbsko narodno himno-Bože pravde; ljudje so se poprijeli in od veselja - kolo-plesali in prepevali srbsko himno; od veselja da je Austrija propadla, toraj to je bilo pred 73 leti. Dolga doba kaj? In to je bilo v Bezuljaku, moji rojstni vasi. Sedaj po 45 letih smo gledali iz Ljubljane na T.V. ljudje so zopet od veselja po cestah plesali in pre-pevafi.
Težko bo! kjer koli! Vse bodo urejevali in na tekoče spravili. Želimo jim, da bi vse z mirnim potom brez vojske uredili. Zemljo in vso imovino vrnili lastnikom, katerim je bilo po krivici razlaščeno.
Na nedeljo 3. marca, me je gospa Josephine Gornik povabila na zajtrk in k maši k Sv. Vidu v Clevelandu. Pripravi ga društvo sv. Imena; postregli so nam z palačinkami in klobasicami ter kavo in torto. Ta zajtrk pripravijo vsako leto in se ga udeleži do osemsto oseb ali gostov.
Zjutraj ob pol enajstih je bila sv, maša in pridiga oboje slovensko. Gospej Gornik moja najtoplejša zahvala za povabilo, da sem prisedla v vaš auto. Kar precej časa sva se vozile po mestu in okolici Clevelanda in tudi v Flower House, me je že drugič popeljala, razkazala lepotično grimičevje in v cvetju raznovrstne rožice. Res je hvale vredno pogledat to cvetličarno. Videle smo tudi več vodometov po dnu te vode. Obiskovalci vidijo raznovrstni kovani denar, ki ga gledalci notri mečejo. Verjetno za kake dobre namene ali, da bi se jim kake želje spolnile.
Vseh, katere praznujete rojstne dneve, se Vas spominjamo v našem mesečniku. So naše srčne želje, da jih praznujete in obhajate v zdravju in v božjem varstvu in blagoslovu med svojimi dragimi. Posebno pa želim tistim, bolnim -katere je bolezen, na postelje priklenila, naj jim ljubi Bog, pošlje skorajšno ozdravljenje.
Še en lep pozdrav in Bog z Vami!
JULKA KLAMMER
mšfl 5LDUEN5KR DEDIŠČINA
A
Začetki Katoliške Cerkve v Ameriki
FRANC JAKLIČ
BARAGOVI INDIJANCI
Indijanci in krščanstvo. Prvi, ki so v 17. stoletju severno-ameriškim Indijancem oznanjali sv. vero, so bili francoski jezuiti. Skraja se je zdelo, da je vse njihovo delo zaman; njihov svetniški zgled, njihova gorečnost in požrtvovalnost in mučeniška smrt nekaterih iz njih so pa začele zmagovati nad temi oholimi, krutimi in razuzdanimi algonkinskimi rodovi. Med misijonarji, ki so jih umorili, je bil tudi Izak Jogues (žog), ki ga je Cerkev leta 1930 med kanadskimi mučenci prištela med svetnike. Že se je zdelo, da bodo vsi Algonkini sprejeli katoliško vero. Po vplivu jezuitov so se oprijemali poljedelstva in obrti. V 18. stoletju so se pa začele vojske med Angleži in Francozi za posest Kanade. Indijanci so se umikali v gozdove; razcvetajoče se misijonske postaje so propadale, zlasti ko je bil red jezuitov, njihovih najbolj gorečih misijonarjev, začasno ‘ukinjen. Med Indijanci je spet zavladalo poganstvo. Vendar niso bili več tako divji in kruti kakor včasih. Kljub svoji čudni prevzetnosti so morali priznati, da jih belo pleme visoko nad-kriljuje; zato so vedno bolj sprejemali njihove verske in nravne nazore, še preden so sprejeli krščanstvo. Pustili so mnogoženstvo, družinsko življenje se je poboljšalo
Rodova Otavanov in Očipvejcev, med katerima je Baraga misijonaril, sta imela od začetka 19. stoletja nekako posebno nagnjenje do katoliške vere. To pa predvsem zato, ker je bila to vera Francozov iz Kanade. Otavsko in Očipvejsko ozemlje je bilo do Baragovega prihoda nezavisno in svobodno. Na sev-
eru so mejili na Kanado, ki je od leta 1763 pripadala Angležem, a je v njej prevladoval francoski, katoliški živelj. Meja med Kanado in indijanskim svobodnim ozemljem so bila tri velika jezera. Iz Kanade so prihajali k njim Francozi, ki jih nikakor niso hoteli izgnati iz njihove domovine. Bili so to trgovci, ki so se naselili po njihovih večjih seliščih. Iskali so prijateljskih stikov z njimi in se poročali z njihovimi hčerami. Pri Indijancih so bili priljubljeni; priljubljena je bila zato tudi njihova katoliška vera in njihovi katoliški (“francoski") duhovniki. — Južni mejaši Indijancev so pa bile Združene države. Njihov namen je bil, osvojiti si svobodno indijansko zemljo. Pošiljale so k njim politične agente, protestantovske misijonarje in učitelje. Prebivalci Združenih držav so bili večinoma kmetje. Leta 1830 so imele nekaj nad 10 milijonov prebivalstva; razen meščanov so se vsi preživljali z obdelovanjem zemlje. Indijanci so vedeli, da če se Združene države polastijo njihove zemlje, jo bodo njihovi kmetje vzeli v osebno last. Sekali bodo gozde in delali njive in travnike. Zanje, za Indijance, ki so lovci in ribiči, ne bo več prostora; pognani bodo proti zahodu. Zato so sovražili te svoje naravne tekmece in sovražnike, z njimi pa tudi njihovo protestantsko vero. — Katoliško vero so Otavani in Očipvejci tudi zato visoko cenili, ker so njeni glasniki, duhovniki, neporočeni. Indijanci sami so bili zelo vdani telesnim grehom počutnosti.
V	devištvu živeče katoliške duhovnike so zato še tem bolj spoštovali, pa tudi ljubili in se jim zaupali, ker so vedeli, da se toliko bolj nesebično zavzemajo in trudijo zanje, ker nimajo lastnih družin. Protestantski duhovniki se jim pa niso zdeli pravi posredovalci med Bogom in ljudmi, saj so poročeni in zato ne stojijo više kakor drugi liudje.
Kljub spoštovanju do katoliške vere in katoliških duhovnikov so se pa še vedno ustavljali krščanstvu. Niso hoteli sprejeti njegovih visokih, a težkih in strogih naravnih zapovedi. Po spreobrnjenju so bili Indijanci duhovnikom otroško vdani. Imenovali so jih nose, oče. Prav zaradi te vdanosti Indijancev so se vsi slovenski misijonarji, kljub vsemu uboštvu in oddaljenosti od kulture, dobro počutili med njimi. Indijanci so samo takrat nastopili proti katoliškemu duhovniku, kadar so jih nahujskali belokožci, zlasti prodajalci žganja in protestantski pridigarji.
Od vseh severnoameriških Indijancev so bili Ota-vani po srcu najboljši in po značaju najbolj plemeniti.
IV. BARAGA V KRIVEM DREVESU
ZAČETNO DELO
(Od 28. maja 1831)
Na vzhodni obali Michiganskega jezera, že daleč gori proti severu, leži ob globokem zalivu mestece Harbor Springs, znano kot letovišče. Zdaj je združeno z mestom Litle Traverse (Liti Trevers). Kakšnih 30 kilometrov proč od sedanjega Harbor Springsa je v Baragovem času stalo veliko indijansko selišče Vag-anakisi, po naše Krivo drevo, v jeziku kanadskih Francozov pa Arbre Croche (Arbr Kroš). Imenovalo se je tako po nekem krivem drevesu, pod katerim so se vršila vaška zborovanja. Stalo je na nizki vzpetini ob obali. Otavani so se tukaj in še po kakšnih desetih drugih vaseh na obali naselili okoli leta 1740. Prišli so od severovzhoda preko otoka Mackinac. Takoj je prišel k njim misijonarit francoski jezuit Peter Du Jaunay (Di Žone); postavil jim je leseno cerkvico in 25 let deloval med njimi. V 18. stoletju so misijoni med severnoameričkimi Indijanci zaradi vojsk med Francozi in Angleži za Kanado skoraj prenehali. Tudi spreobrnjenci iz Krivega drevesa so bili brez stalnega duhovnika. Le tu pa tam je prišel k njim duhovnik iz starodavne misijonske postaje Mackinac, ki so jo bili v 17. stoletju ustanovili francoski jezuiti.-Indijanci, prepuščeni samim sebi, so se spet predali žganju in lenobi.
Novo življenje se je pa začelo s prihodom misijonarja Gabriela Richards (Rišara). Rodil se je leta 1767 v Franciji, bil posvečen za mašnika in se leta 1792 pripeljal v Ameriko. Škof Carroll ga je poslal v zvezno državo Illinois med katoliške Indijance in kanadske Francoze. Stanoval je v misijonu Kaskaskia, ki so ga bili v 17. stoletju ustanovili jezuiti. Tam je misijonaril šest let. Potem ga je škof Carroll poslal v Detroit, kjer je ostal dolgih 34 let in blizu in daleč širil in utrjeval krščanstvo. Stavile so se mu silne ovire, njegova gorečnost je pa vse premagala. Postal je največji misijonar severnega dela Združenih držav v* prvih treh desetletjih 19. stoletja. Škof ga je imenoval za svojega namestnika (generalnega vikarja) za detroitski del škofije.
Poleti leta 1799 je obiskal Mackinac in ostal tam tri mesece. Z žalostjo je gledal, kako so Indijanci tonili v pijači. Škofu je pisal, da jih je angleški rum več pokončal kakor bojni meč. Isto je videl v Krivem drevesu.
Leta 1812 so Angleži zavzeli Detroit in Richarda zaprli kot vojnega ujetnika, ker jim ni hotel priseči
zvestobo. Indijanci, ki so se vojskovali na strani Angležev, so ga osvobodili.
Leta 1821 je začasno spet obiskal Krivo drevo. Takrat se je pa čudil, kako so v vasi in sosednjih naseljih postali zelo drugačni. Niso več pijančevali, pridno so obdelovali svoje njivice. Za ta njihov duhovni in gospodarski napredek sta imela zaslugo zlasti dva vaška veljaka, oba zelo dobra katoličana. Prvi je bil Makate Binesi, Črni ptič ali Kos, ki je bil rojen govornik in je zato njegova beseda na zborovanjih mnogo zalegla. Bil je oče semeniščnika Viljema, ki je v Cincinnatiju Barago učil otavskega jezika. Fant je šel naslednje leto v Rim na osrednji misijonski zavod Propagando, učit se bogoslovja. Tam je učil otavščine kardinala Mezzofantija, slavnega jezikoslovca, ki je znal okoli 70 jezikov in narečij in ki je bil očetovski prijatelj našega Ignacija Knobleharja, ko je tam študiral. Žal pa, da je Viljema Makate Binesi zaradi spremembe podnebja že po dveh letih ugrabila jetika. - Drugi vplivni mož je bil njegov sorodnik Agisinak ali Škorec. Nekaj časa je študiral v Kanadi in je bil tam za učitelja. Bil je tudi izučen mizar in kovač.
Leta 1823 so protestantje-prezbiterijanci ustanovili v Mackinacu misijon in odprli šolo. Katoliške Indijance v Krivem drevesu je zaskrbelo, da bi ne silili tudi k njim. Na razne kraje so prosili za katoliškega duhovnika. Tako se je n. pr. 12. avgusta leta 1823 po generalnem vikarju Richardu obrnilo sedem vaščanov na kongres Združenih držav, naj ga jim izposluje. Prošnjo zaključujejo: “Če izpolnite ponižno željo vaših zvestih sinov, vam bodo za vselej hvaležni in bodo prosili Velikega Duha, naj razliva svoj blagoslov na belokožce." Podpisani: Jastreb, Riba, Gosenica, Žerjav, Orel, Leteča riba in Jelen. Kongres jim ni odgovoril. Štiri mesece nato je Kos pisal predsedniku Združenih držav Jamesu Monroe (Džemsu Monro). A mu tudi ta ni dal odgovora. Škof Fenwick jim ni mogel poslati stalnega duhovnika, ker ga ni imel.
Leta 1825 je francoski duhovnik Vincencij Badin' (Baden) iz Detroita obiskal severnoindijanske misijone. Iz Mackinaca je pisal možem v Krivo drevo, naj postavijo “molivni vigvanT' iz brezovega tubja, da jim bo mogel maševati v njem. Prijetno je tjfl pa presenečen, ko so za njegov obisk že postavili cerkvico iz obtesanih brun. Med svetimi opravili je poslušal versko petje Indijancev, ki pojo -počasi, zategnjeno, slovesno, s čustvi. Ker je prišel k njim 19. julija, na dan sv. Vincencija Pavelskega, je cerkev blagoslovil temu svetniku v čast. Tisto poletje se je še enkrat vrnil v Krivo drevo.
Leta 1928 so se prezbiterijanci iz Mackinaca res hoteli naseliti v Krivem drevesu. Da to prepreči, je generalni vikar Richard poslal k njim Petra Dejeana, Francoza, izvrstnega in skušenega misijonarja, ki je že dolgo let deloval v Severni Ameriki. Pod njegovim vodstvom so na griču zunaj naselja napravili novo, večjo cerkev na deset oken, dolgo 18 in široko 10 m. Imela je zvonjk in majhen zvon. Ker niso še imeli ne konj ne vozov, so morali dolge in težke trame za cerkev nositi iz gozda na ramah, včasih po 50 mož enega. Cerkev je Dejean posvetil svojemu krstnemu patronu sv. Petru. Držala se je je šola z dvema sobama, ena za dečke in ena za deklice, in soba za duhovnika. Dejean je krstil 130 oseb. Indijancem je svetoval, naj se naselijo okoli cerkve. — Začasno je
odšel od njih, v juniju naslednjega leta 1829 jim ga je pa sam škof Fenwick spet pripeljal. Ostal je pri njih dve leti in jih je krstil 224. Spreobrnjence je lepo uvedel v svete obrede in v krščansko življenje. V bližnjih seliščih je postavil dve cerkvi, eno v čast Materi božji in eno v čast sv. Pavlu; nista pa bili docela iz tramov, stene so bile iz lubja.
Šolo je Dejean začel 23. avgusta leta 1829. Vpisalo se je 20 učencev in 18 učenk. Dečke je učil Škorec, deklice pa 50-letna gospodična Elizabeta Williams iz bogate trgovske hiše iz Detroita. Njen brat je bil v Detroitu za župana. Dobro je znala otavski jezik. Prej je v Detroitu poučevala na dekliški šoli. V Krivo drevo je prišla iz same misijonske vneme in je učila brezplačno.
Kakšnih 25 otrok, ki so bili zelo daleč doma, je stalno bivalo v šoli. Starši so jim prinašali krompirja in žita, Dejean je dajal zabelo in sol. Kuhale so starejše učenke pod vodstvom učiteljice Williamsove. Otroci so sami prali, da so se učili snage. Učili so se domačih del in olikanega vedenja. Ob prostem času so trebili gozdno poseko in sadili zelenjavo.
Otavske misijonske šole je vzdrževal škof. Mnogo so ga stale. Vzdrževal jih je z darovi evropskih misijonskih družb.
Okrog cerkve se je res začela nova vas, kakor je bil Dejean Indijancem svetoval. Že je stalo tam kakšnih 20 lesenih hišic, ne več vigvamov, in so delali še nove. Staro naselje s cerkvico sv. Vincencija Pavelskega se je poslej imenovalo "Staro Krivo drevo".
Leta 1830 je Dejean s sodelovanjem učiteljice Williamsove predelal za Otavane neki algonkinski molitvenik. Pustil pa je v njem mnogo algonkinskih besed in vstavil precej francoskega besedila. Zato molitvenik ni bil dobro poraben za Otavane. - Dejean je mnogo storil tudi za treznost.
Ker je bil slabotnega zdravja in ga je trlo domotožje, se je spomladi leta 1831 za vselej poslovil od Krivega drevesa. Ko je odhajal, je ljudstvo klečalo ob poti in jokalo. V dveh letih je že dobro uredil misijon.
V	jutru 28. maja istega leta 1831 sta se pripeljala k njim škof Fenwick in Baraga. Škofa so takoj spoznali, saj jim je bil predlanskim pripeljal Dejeana. Veselo so ga pozdravljali. Ko je Baraga odmaševal, jim ga je škof predstavil in jim povedal, da ga za stalno pušča pri njih. — Pripeljal jim je iz Mackinaca tudi novo učiteljico Marijo Ano Fisher (Fišer), pol Indijanko.
Dejean in Škorec sta mnoge iz Krivega drevesa in iz bližnjih in daljnih naselij pripravila za krst in druge zakramente. Škof in Baraga sta krstila dve odrasli osebi in 26 otrok in jih po tolmaču Škorcu mnogo spovedala. Drugi dan po njunem prihodu je bila nedelja sv. Rešnjega Telesa. Med škofovo mašo jih je 28 prejelo prvo sv. obhajilo. Po maši je bila procesija, škof je nosil Najsvetejše. Indijanci so se tako pobožno in spodbudno vedli in tako s srcem prepevali evharistične pesmi, da je škof pisal svojemu generalnemu vikarju Res6ju: "To je bil zame lep dan in še nikoli se nisem čutil tako popolnoma zadovoljnega in potolaženega kakor ta dan." Na lastne oči je gledal sadove Dejeanovega dela. Popoldne jih je 30 birmal. — Po cerkvenih slovesnostih jim je Škorec pripravil pojedino in je zanje ubil svoje najbolj debelo tele.
Izdelki indijanske domače obrti Baragov dar ljublj. muzeju)
En teden je ostal škof pri njih. Za odhod so mu pot do ladje pogrnili z indijanskimi preprogami in posuli s cvetjem. — Od njih je šel za cele tri tedne na misijonsko postajo v Green Bay, kamor je prišel tudi misijonar Mazzuchelli. Tam je pa videl velikansko razliko od kristjanov v Krivem drevesu. Reseju je pisal: “Božja previdnost me je izvolila porabiti v dušni blagor teh ubogih ljudi, ki so bili pogreznjeni v mlakužo pregreh, nevednosti in razuzdanosti. Milost božja jih je zdaj zelo spremenila. Odkar sem škof opravil tako napornega in težavnega, obenem pa tako tolažilnega misijonskega dela, kakor je bilo to, kjer je zastaran kvas povzročil nepopisno pokončanje.” Škof in Mazzuchelli sta jim vsak dan pridigala. Spovedovala sta od ranega jutra do ene čez poldne, potem pa spet od treh ali štirih do desetih ali enajstih. Bile so spovedi čez 10,20,30 let nazaj. Mnogi so pri spovedi jokali.
Iz Green Baya se je škof odpeljal proti Detroitu.
Z 29. majem je začel Baraga pisati krstno knjigo, ki je Dejean še ni imel. Za uvod je napisal nekaj podatkov o sebi. Pravi, da je bil rojen “v Iliriji, ki je pokrajina avstrijskega cesarstva”.
Okolico Krivega drevesa je naš misijonar Lovrenc Lavtižar pozneje takole opisal: “Hribov v teh krajih ni. Dežela ni tako zelo dolgočasna, zemlja je srednje dobra, drevje raznovrstno, nekaterih dreves na Kranjskem ni, n. pr. ceder in nekega borovca; sadnega drevja razen nekaj jablan ni; rdečih jagod in borovnic je pa silno veliko. Divjačina je že vsa iztrebljena. Ptičev pevcev pride spomladi neizrečeno veliko, proti jeseni pa spet odletijo. V deželi je mnogo divjih golobov, rac in jerebic. Trava je majhna, cvetic prav malo in nič kaj lepih."
Spreobrnjeni Indijanci so Barago od prvega dne spoštovali in ljubili kakor očeta. Vsaka njegova želja jim je bila ukaz. Če so šli za več dni v gozd, so mu poprej prišli dat roko in povedat, da jih zdaj nekaj časa ne bo doma.
—	Nadaljevanje —
FRAN LEVSTIK
MARTIN KRPAN
ILLUSTRATED BY
TONE KRALJ
TRANSLATED FROM THE SLOVENE BY F.S. COPELAND
The good folk of Vienna had so far watched from a distance, but now they rushed up to him; the Emperor himself went to meet him and embraced him in full view of a crowd that shouted with might and main: »Krpan has saved us! Hail to Krpan, while Vienna stands!«
Krpan was well pleased with all the honor shown him, and sat his mare as if he were out to invite to a feast. And well he might. Even here with us, if a man kills a blindworm or a water snake, he can’t make up his mind on which bush to hang it so that more people may see it.
When all the princes, generals, and great nobles were assembled in the imperial palace with Krpan, the Emperor himself was the first to speak, and he said: »Now you just take your choice! I will give you whatever you ask; because you have overcome so mighty a foe and delivered our country and our city of a great scourge and calamity. I have nothing in my empire of which I would say: ,1 will not give it you if you want it‘; even Yeritsa,
my only daughter, you can have for the asking, if you are not married already.«
»I was married,« answered Krpan; »but now I’m a widower. My wife died, and I never looked out for another. I really don’t know what to do so that I may not be the worse for it, while God and good men approve. I've already seen your daughter. If she’s as clever as she’s pretty my old woman couldn’t hold a candle to her in anything. Of course she’s used to having everything of the best about her; I'm not denying that, because she comes of a great house; but we’re not just beggars at The Peak by Holy Trinity. All the year round we, too, have a chunk of smoked meat hanging above the grill. Only I don’t know how it would work. —One day, Maggie and I were carrying grapes to Trieste in our creels. On the way back she fell ill on the road. I can’t tell you how tiresome that was! I’d sooner have my braces give way in church, the pair of them, when I was just about to light the candles. There was no help
for it: I put her in the creel, shouldered it and stepped out briskly with the wife on my back! I’d have managed all right; Meg was no bigger than a kid of thirteen — though the old girl was fully thirty when we were spliced — and so she wasn’t heavy; but wherever I went they asked me what ware had I now for sale? It’s plaguey bad business to tote one’s old woman about the world! And what if something of the sort were to happen to the pair of us again on the highroad, I mean to your daughter and myself? The road from here to the Peak stretches like the guts of a chicken. I ’ ve got no creel, worse luck; my little mare carries only one saddle. And as likely as not she would feel sick; we all know that such fine ladies aren't used to sitting a horse, clip, clop, clip, clop, from five in the morning till eight at night. All things considered, it'd be better for the princess to bide with you and for me to stay a widower, although I don’t really fancy it; but what God sends, Man may not refuse.«
But the Empress had not yet forgotten the shady lime tree above the stone table in the garden; that’s why she wasn’t present; but she was listening at the door, as is the way with women who want to know everything. When she heard the Emperor offer his own daughter to Krpan for a wife, she came in and siad: »No, you shan’t have her, no! You’ve spoilt my lime-tree; but my daughter I won’t give you! My dear husband, you’ve surely taken leave of your senses — I can’t put it nicely — that you can say such things when you know quite well it’s just empty talk. And you too, my lords, you ought to be ashamed of yourselves! A pretty pass we’ve come to, when a yokel has to fight for you! My lime-tree would still be here and yet the giant have lost his head if you were worth your salt. But this I know: because men have turned old women, a woman’s a fool if she takes a husband!	(To be continued)
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1 “FOR THE YOUNG AT HEART”
U      ______________________
“POSTER” GIRL
Jessica Yach, age 14, Junior member of Branch 12, won “first place” and a $300.00 Savings Bond for an “anti-drug” poster she submitted to a contest in Waukesha County.
Her entry, chosen from over 1,400 posters, will be published in a calendar for 1991. Mary Starich is very proud of her granddaughter’s artistic accomplishments, including designing the cover of her grade school year book for St. John Vianney, and placing First in a regional map competition which now goes onto a state level.
Besides art, Jessica is an active team member in many school sports, plays the flute in her school band, takes jazz dance lessons, and serves her community through recycling programs and youth camps as a member of Girl Scout Troop 12. In addition to all this activity, Jessica always finds time to enjoy and help out at the summer junior picnics of our branch.
She will graduate this May and continue her education at Catholic Memorial High School in the Fall.
Congratulations and all the best.
M.D.
DAVY’S COLUMN
L—ii	=n
The Influence of Color
The influence color has over us is incredible. Studies have proven that physiological changes take place in people and animals when exposed to certain colors.
Bright red and yellow stimulate the autonomic nervous system. Blood pressure, pulse rates, and respiration increase. On the other hand, blue and green have the opposite effect.
Subjects placed in a red room didn't become chilly until the temperature was lowered to 52°. These same people reached for a sweater in a blue-green room at 59°.
Blue and green also have a calm soothing effect on people and animals, where the brighter colors encourage more aggressive reactions.
The remarkable result in all the tests was that blind or color blind subjects experienced the same effects that the sighted subject experienced!
One explanation for this is color is
A CHILD’S VIEW OF GRANDMAS AND GRANDPAS
A grandmother is a lady who has no children of her own, so she likes other people’s kids. A grandfather is a man grandmother. He likes to go on walks with kids and they talk about fishing and things like that.
Grandmas don’t have to do anything except be there. They’re old, so they shouldn’t play hard or run. They let us ride the “pretend horse” at K-Mart and have plenty of quarters ready. They take us on slow walks and always stop for things like caterpillars and pretty leaves. They never, ever say, “Hurry up.”
Usually they are fat, but not too fat to tie kids’ shoes. They wear glasses
light and light is energy. It isn’t so much as what you see as the effect the particular energy (light) has on one’s autonomic nervous system.
My favorite study was conducted by a color marketing division of an industrial plant. It had to do with the weights and the colors white and black. White is perceived to be lighter than black.
In order to test if this belief is true or not, boxes of various weights were used. The heavier boxes were colored white, and the lighter boxes black. The engineers tested actually had more difficulty lifting the black boxes even though they actually weighed less than the white.
Did you know the colors yellow, orange, red and brown tend to stimulate the appetite? Unfortunately, most fast food restaurants know this. On this same line of thought, violet depresses the appetite. To think of all the years I battled to control my weight, and the answer was in my local paint store. All I have to do is paint my kitchen violet. Who'd have thought!
’Til Next Month,
DAVY
Information for this article from Alive With Color by Leatrice Eiseman
and funny underwear. They can do neat things-like take out their teeth.
They don’t have to be smart, only answer questions like, “Why dogs hate cats” and “How come God isn’t married.” They don’t talk baby talk like visitors do, because it’s hard to understand. When they read to us, they don’t skip, or mind if it is the same story again.
Everybody should try to have one, because Grandmas and Grandpas are the only grownups who have got time.
EM
DAFFY DEFINITIONS!
What is a “chronologically experienced” person?
(An old foggy)
What is “previously prepared gourmet food”?
(Leftovers)
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