DECEMBER, 1983 NO. 12 Vol. 55 Wishing you Peace Joy and Happiness through Christmas and the coming year CHRISTMAS PARTIES IN ZARJA - THE DA WN december (ISSN 0044-1848) NO. 12 DECEMBER, 1983 VOL. 55 Member, Illinois Fraternal Congress Official Publication of the Slovenian Women's Union of America — Uradno glasjlo Slovenske Ženske Zveze. Published monthly except January, June c£ August — izhaja vsak mesec razen januar, junij in avgust. Annual Subscription for non-members, $10.00 — naročnina $10.00 letno za ne-članice. Publisher:SL O V EN!A N WOMEN'S UNION OF AMERICA 431 No. Chicago St., Joliet, II. 60432 Telephone (815) 727-1926 Second Class Postage paid at Chicago, IL AH communications for the next issue of publication must be in the hands of the Editor by the first week of the month — vsi dopisi za naslednjo izdajo mesečnika morajo biti v rokah urednice do I. v mesecu. Editor, COR!N NE LESKOVAR Editorial Office, 2032 W. Cermak Rd., Chicago, IL 60608 Telephone (312) 847-6679 HAPPY BIRTHDAY IN DECEMBER National Officer: Dec. 6 - Albina Uehlein, Director of Women’s Activities, Lorain, OH Presidents: Dec. 5 - Rose Marie Streckel, Br. 26, Pittsburgh, PA Dec. 6 - Stella Ciccioni, Br. 70, W. Aliquippa, PA Dec. 15 - Victoria Volk, Br. 99, Elmhurst, IL Dec. 21 - Mary Mihelich, Br. 79, Enumclaw, WA Dec. 30 - Jennie Gerk, Br. 47, Garfield Hts., OH Dec. 31 - Josephine Kapla, Br. 81, Keewatin, MN Dec. 31 - Frances Vidmar, Br. 83, Crosby, MN Secretary: Dec. 29 - Elizabeth Birk, Br. 84, New York, NY. MANY HAPPY RETURNS OF THE DAY! Br. I, Sheboygan, Wl plans a special mass on Dec. 20th at 6 p.m. at St. Cyril & Methodius church followed by Pot-luck party and Christmas program. Br. 2, Chicago, IL has a Juniors’ Christmas party on Dec. 3rd, 1:30 p.m. at St. Stephen’s Lower Hall and Adults’ party on Dec. 8th, preceded by Mass at 7:30 p.m. $2 adult dinner charge for members, $5 for guests. Br. 3, Pueblo, CO asks that members attend the meeting as usual and enjoy a party with lunch and gift exchange afterward. Br. 12, Milwaukee. Wl invites you to a sit-down dinner and meeting Dec. 15th with $2 gift exchange. Br. 14, Cleveland, OH on December 6th, call 481-937*, for reservation Br. 17, West Allis, Wl celebrates Christmas on Dec. 18th at 2 p.m. at the Baraga Hall of St. Mary’s Church. Br. 19, Eveleth, MN will meet on the first Sunday, Dec. 4th at Resurrection Church Hall, 1:30 p.m. Br. 22, Bradley, IL has a “personal holiday” treat for members on Dec. 4th. Br. 25, Cleveland, OH will meet for Christmas Luncheon on Dec. 13th at 1:30 p.m. at St. Vitus Auditorium, $3.00 donation. Br. 32, Euclid, OH has their Christmas party and meeting on Dec. 21. Br. 35, Aurora, MN on December 4th at Sr. Citizen’s Center Br. 40, Lorain, OH on December 14th, 7 p.m. Bring $3 gift for exchange Br. 41, Cleveland, OH on December 10th for juniors, 1:30 p.m. Dec. 13th for adults, 6 p.m., at SNH on Stanley Ave. Br. 42, Maple Hgls., OH has a parly for Juniors Dec. 10 at 1:30 p.m. at SNH and for Adults on Dec. 13th at 6 p.m. Note Christmas Tour on Dec. 27. Br. 43, Milwaukee, Wl on December 12th, meeting 6:30 p.m. dinner, 7 p.m., call in reservation by 12-5 Br. 50, Cleveland, OH on December 11th at the SNH on Holmes Ave. Reservations requested Br. 52, Kitzville, MN on December 8th at Elks Club in Hibbing Br. 54, Warren, OH has a Christinas Luncheon on Dec. 21st at the Elks Lodge Hall on Rt. 422, 1 p.m. Br. 57, Niles, OH has Dinner Dec. 13th at the Spot Restaurant. Br. 59, Burgetlslown, PA plans a dinner at Rae Lynn’s on Dec. 4th. Br. 68, Fairporl Hrbr., OH has selected the Vough Restaurant for their Christmas parly; for date and time call officers. Br. 81, Keewatin, MN has set their Christmas Dinner for Dec. 9th. Br. 92, Gunnison, CO will enjoy a Christmas Luncheon on Dec. 3rd. f .INDEPENDENT oDAVINGS 1515 E. 260th, Euclid, Ohio 44132 731- 8865 920 E 185th Cleveland. Ohio44119 486- 4100 54788 ay you be blessed at this beautiful season... and always. With the holidays approaching, we are filled with plans for celebrations with families and friends. Let us first remember the Child Jesus, who inspires us with the joy of giving to those less fortunate. Because we need the togetherness of the holiday season, we should try harder to volunteer our services to our respective branches, especially when elections are held. It is a privilege to be chosen as an officer - a leader who is looked to for advice and understanding. Many of you will have Christmas parties for your children and adults - an opportunity to invite friends to join you and perhaps become members. Our campaign, “Keep the Spirit Going,” if very much in progress - have you brought in at least one member? At the Illinois State Convention and 55th Anniversary in Joliet, the large attendance was interested in discussions on the floor. The Heritage Museum was the recipient of some beautiful family keepsakes donated by Elsie and Shirley Melissa, long time members of Branch 2. They were kept in good condition which bespeaks of their loving care through the years. Thanks. In a letter, Father David Stalzer reminds us of the Slovenian Miners’ Memorial Project - which is still very much in progress. The new addition to the Interpretative Center in Chisholm will be completed next year and Lillian Brule’s work will be ready for exhibition. Any donations will be welcome. My husband and I will be spending a few months in Arizona will our children, God willing. I will be glad to answer any mail sent to me at: 2632 N. 69th St., Scottsdale, AZ 85257. Let us remember our ailing friends with a card or visit, especially this holiday season. For our beloved deceased, we ask the Lord’s blessing, that they be accepted in His heavenly environs. My sincerest holiday greetings to the Board members, as well as all our members and their families. May the Christ Child bestow health and happiness to all. May God Walk With You. Mary Muller Rev. Athanasius Lovrenčič, O.F.M. A time of fulfillment The time of waiting is over; we have gone through the Advent season, not only to prepare ourselves for Christ’s coming to us, but also to better understand the waiting for the promised Messiah in the Old Testament. As we celebrate the birth of Christ, we are not just recalling an historical fact, but celebrating something that happened for us, and it is still happening. Christ came two thousand years ago; He opened the doors of grace, so that I am called a child of God; with His coming I received title to eternal life. To celebrate Christmas is much more than Santa’s coming and the opening of gifts. On that first holy night Christ was born and His birth still influences our daily lives, as a matter of fact it brings life to our souls, providing we accept Christ. St. John is telling us that Christ came among His own, but they did not accept Him; but to those who did accept Him, He gave the power to become children of God. We see that at the very first beginning there were some who did not care for the Christmas gift of the heavenly Father. The question arises: do we accept Christ as He really is for us: our Redeemer, our Master and our life’s Goal? Christmas is a time of joy, a time when people come together to “celebrate Christmas”. The real reason for joyous celebrating is the fact that Christ came and not just for Christmas day, He came to stay wit-h us every single day; therefore Christmas joy should be with us always; this good will and friendly disposition toward others should be so evident that it will become con-tageous; yes, our hearts should be full of joy, because we celebrate the historical fact that the heavenly Father opened the heavens and sent us a most precious gift - His own Son; that in His name we will have the courage to call God “Abba”, Father, and that one day we will be born to eternal life. OHIO OFFICERS AT STATE MEETING Regional President, Ann Tercek, center, stands with members of the National Board of the S.W.U. and Ohio officers, from left: Marie Beck, Br. 50, Vera Bajec, Br. 14, Irene Jagodnik, Nat’l Auditor, Cirila Kermavner, Nat’l Vice-President, Stella Dancull, Br. 21, Josephine Comensek, Br. 32. Report on the Ohio eve)u is on page 3. 6 6 KEEP THE SPIRIT GOING!” Our membership campaign is already half over enriching us by 95 members. This consists of 12 Class As including four Junior transferees, 36 Class Bs including 13 transferees and 47 juniors. Of the Juniors fifteen are newborns including two sets of twins, namely Kelly and Scott Kochniarczyk sponsored by Mary Podder of Branch 2 Chicago, IL (previously reported) and Kristen and Sarah Green sponsored by Antoinette Jandera of Branch 47 Garfield Heights, OH. Special congratulations go to the Twirlettes of Branch 32 Euclid, OH who increased their ranks and enrolled fourteen Juniors plus one mother. Said branch is in first place with a total of 17. Branch 50 Cleveland, OH is in second place with 10. Ranking third among the branches are No. 2, Chicago, IL and No. 17, West Allis, WI each with 8 new members. In fourth and fifth place are Branches 102, Willard, Wl with 7 and Branch 20, Joliet-; IL with 5. National auditor and Branch 17 president, Marion Marolt, of West Allis, WI is in first place with 8 new members. Delegate Mary Staut of Branch 102, Willard, WI happily enrolled her 7 grandchildren. Forty-five members from twenty-five branches have contributed to the campaigns success thus far. It has been noted that in recent years some branches have not taken part in any campaign. How about helping with one or two new members? Enroll your family members and friends and thus guarantee Zveza’s future. As the delegates caught the spirit, it is hoped many members will also live up to the campaign’s goal to “Keep (he Spirit Going”. Olga Ancel, Secretary Five $1,000 Scholarships for 1984 With pleasure the Slovenian Women’s Union announces its 1984 Scholarship Program. Five $1,000 scholarships will be awarded to qualified high school graduating seniors who have to date been members at least 3 years. Academic achievement, extra curricular activities and financial need will be considered by the Scholarship Committee when making selections. Only one member of a family can ever receive a scholarship. Also, only one scholarship will be awarded to a Branch each year. We urge all seniors to apply as soon as possible. Mail the tear-off section to Hermine Dicke to receive scholarship application material. With best wishes to all our high school senior members, Sincerely, Hermine Dicke, Chairman Scholarship Committee In loving memory of our parents, MARIE & JOHN PRISLAND Loved and sadly missed by Hermine, Theodore, Margaret our families and grandchildren Res( in Peace Request for Scholarship Application I am considering applying for one of (lie S.W.U. scholarships which will be awarded to members who will be 1984 high school graduates. Please send me the official application form which must be completed by March 31, 1984. □ I am a high school senior planning to attend an accredited college or university in fall. NAME _ STREET CITY _ DATE OF BIRTH . STATE & ZIP CODE Mail to: Hermine Dicke 3717 Council Crest Madison, WI 53711 OHIO-MICH1GAN BRANCHES ENJOY THEIR DA Y NEW BANNER FOR BR. 10, CLEVELAND, OHIO A beautiful, new banner was blessed al the recent Ohio-Michigan Slate Day in Cleveland, the creation of Ur. 10 Secretary Rosemary Susel and her sister, Danielle. The group in this photo is comprised of members of the Marie Prisland Cadets, Kuclid S.W.U. Twirlcttes and in the center are Mary Polegar, Ann Stefančič, Recording Secretary of Br. 10 and their president, Jean Planisek. This picture was taken before the altar al St. Mary Assumption church on Holmes Ave. October 30th, 1983, a beautiful, sunny day and members of the Combined Branches of Cleveland held the State Convention in connection with the yearly Memorial Mass for beloved departed, pioneer officer of ZVEZA, Albina Novak, our founder and organizer of Br. 50. It was held at St. Mary’s church on Holmes Ave. Leading the procession in church were officers of Br. 10 carrying their new SWU Banner, lo be blessed at this time. Following them were the Euclid Twirlcttes, Marie Prisland Cadets and the rest of the members, accompanied by organ music and choir of singers. Father Victor Tome gave a beautiful sermon and blessed the new banner which was placed by the altar. After Mass, a luncheon was served in the school cafeteria. Ohio-Miehigan Regional President, Ann Tercek, opened the meeting at 12:45 p.m. with prayer and Pledge of Allegiance. Candlelight adorned the stage dedicated to Marie Prisland, Albina Novak, Sophie Magayna and Frances Sietz, our past national officers. We also extend to past president Mary Bostian best wishes for better health. Ann Tercek introduced the Board of Directors members, namely, herself as Regional President, Irene Jagodnik, National Auditor, Cirila Kermavner, National Vice-President. Angie Voytko of Lorain represented Albina Uehlein, National Women’s Activities Director who was ill and not able to attend. Recording Secretary was Marie Beck. The Minutes of the last convention were read and approved. Stella Dancull reported the financial statement of $338 in the Combined Branch treasury. Prize tickets today netted $158. Letters were read greeting the con- vention from Nat’l President Mary Muller, Editor, Corinne Leskovar, Past President, Mary Bostian and Mary Lour Prhne, Secretary of Br. 42. We missed Corinne who was with us often in the past years. She was attending a special memorial program for her husband in Chicago. Report of the branches is satisfactory, president requesting that if any help is needed by any branch in the future they should call on her. She asked that every branch make greater effort to enroll new memers as we need them to replace our departed. At this time, though she was ill and unable to attend, honors were extended to Albina Uehlein, Women’s Activities Director,'for her efforts and dedication to her branch, No. 40 in Lorain, and to the Ženska Zveza. The Dawn Choral Club will not hold a concert this year due to lack of sufficient singers. They are appealing lo all: “Come and join us”! A thank-you to those who donated flowers for the tables, helped in the kitchen and sold tickets and to Mary Zimmerman who look photos in church and during the meeting. Frances Sietz. Scholarship Fund is still open. The collection among our branches was $2,000 towards the $3,000 pledged for a room at the Slovenian Home for the Aged. The plaque with the name of our group is on the second floor of the I lome. Election of officers was held with a motion made for the whole board to remain the same for the next term. It was carried unanimously. As each branch was called upon to announce their departed members, a candle was extinguished by one of DKCKMBKR, 1 «>83 3 our Cadets as we conducted a touching Memorial Service. In 1982, we lost 34 members among our branches. The attendance at today’s meeting was 93 and adjournment was moved at 3:15 p.m., by Ann Stefančič, seconded by Mary Turk. Success in United to all branches! May you all enjoy happy holidays! God give you health till we meet again at the next Ohio-Michigan Convention in 1984! MARIE BECK, Recording Secretary Reflections on a great event The Ohio and Michigan State Convention was held in Cleveland, Ohio at St. Mary’s Church and hall on Sunday, Oct. 30th. A beautiful, cool, sunny day and a large attendance at the annual Mass held in memory of Albina Novak, our Founder and pioneer worker, was most gratifying for all members. The service, prayers and singing in Slovenian started the day most memorably. Fr. Victor Tome was the celebrant. A nostalgic feeling crept over me as 1 listened at Mass. Br. 10 also brought their new banner, designed, made and embroidered by three members which was blessed by Fr. Tome before Mass. The Cadets from Branch No. 50 and the Twirlettes from Branch 32 preceded the members in a procession to the altar. They looked so professional. After Mass, lunch was served at a nominal fee in the school hall. Ten branches were represented either by members or their executive boards, totaling at least 100 Appreciation! Many, many thanks to the members of the S.W.U. Combined Branches of Cleveland for the honors bestowed upon me at the Ohio-Michigan Convention on Sunday, October 30th. Special thanks to Ann Tercek, State president, her committee, Irene Jagodnik, National Auditor, and past National President, Mary Bostian, for all the lovely gifts and corsage of red and white silk roses given to me. Thanks to my own Branch No. 40 of Lorain, Ohio for the gift presented by Angeline Voytko, our Auditor. I thank her kindly for the special trip she made to accept my honors and deliver them to me, since ill health kept me from attending the Convention. She also reported about our Branch No. 40 and I am sure she did an excellent job of it. Milo, my husband, was elated to have been saluted at the meeting and presented with a bottle of wine. He also is most certainly dedicated to the Slovenian Women’s Union and comes with me to all Combined Branches affairs. Of course, he is happy with all the attention he receives often being the only man present! Thank you again ladies, for this special honor and hope that I can continue to work to the best of my ability in the future. * * * This is the favorite month of the year for most people, whether they are younger or older, as long as they have happy holidays. The Christmas holidays this year will be a true test of loving and giving. With the turmoil going on in the world today, we need to pray to our Lord to help us understand the things that are happening all over the world. Perhaps if each and everyone of us does his or her share, there may be “Peace on Earth.” I am wishing the National Officers, Editor, officers and members of all branches, A very MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPIEST OF NEW YEARS! Albina Uehlein Women's Activities Director ladies. Each reported their various activites during the year and surprisingly, each branch had different ideas of fun and ways of building up their treasuries and giving to charities. Found out we have many members over age 80 and even in the nineties! Many are still active and energetic. We sang “Happy Birthday” at this meeting to three ladies with birthday ages of 83, 84 and 85! Best wishes to them all. A candle ceremony for our deceased of the year was conducted by our Cadets with Br. 25 having the most departed during the year, 10. They also have the most elderly members that are 80 years young or over but still active. The convention honored Albina Uehlein, National Director of Women’s Activities, of Lorain, Ohio, Br. 40, who is very dedicated to the S.W.U. and generously gives her time and talent to the organization. The Convention presented her gifts of appreciation and to her husband who drives her to Cleveland for our frequent meetings. Mrs. Uehlein was absent due to illness and was represented by Angie Voytko of Lorain. We re-elected the whole board of our Combined Branches for another term. By making Ann Tercek accept the post as Regional President again, we know we have a good officer. Ann was hoping for a volunteer to take her place but we are glad to have her experience that will be needed in the busy new term ahead until the next National Convention in 1987. A Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all. Reporter, VERA ŠEBENIK MINNESOTA CELEBRATES AT ____________________KEEWATIN_____________________________ We hosted the annual Minnesota Day on Sept. 11th, 1983. We were happy to see so many members all coming from different parts of the state to help us celebrate Minnesota Day! Registration began at 9 a.m. at the Moose Hall. Morning coffee and a variety of baked goods were served. The business meeting was conducted by Victoria Bobence, our State President. Many important business matters were discussed and acted upon. Congratulations to Rose Maras of Hibbing, the newly-elected State president. Mass was celebrated at St. Mary’s Church by Fr. John O’Donnell. Mary Spolarich and Phyllis Pavich sang the hymns during the mass. A banquet was held at Father Frederick Hall after the Mass. Fr. O’Donnell gave the invocation and benediction. Jane Patter was the Toastmistress. Welcome was given by Dr. Dan Kelly, Mayor of Keewatin, and also by Josie Kapla, president of Br. 81. Speakers on this occasion were Victoria Bobence, State President and Anna Hodnik, National Youth Director. Both arc to be commended for the excellent jobs they have done in their respective positions. Vocal selections were given by the Aurora Women’s Chorus, Mary Spolarich and Phyllis Pavich and the “Abundant Joy” musical group. The Mothers of the Year of the various branches were honored with gil ts. Many prizes were also given. The 1984 Minnesota Day will be hosted by Kitzville, Br. 52. We enjoyed hosting the convention even though it entailed much work and planning. We wish to thank all of you for being our guests and helping us to have a successful day. We enjoyed having you. We arc now making plans for our Christmas party. MARY MICHELICH “MINNESOTA DAY” ANNUAL SUCCESS! Dear Members of the Slovenian Women's Union: The 26th annual Minnesota State Slovenian Women’s Union Convention, hosted by Branch 81, was held on Sunday, September 11, 1983 in Keewatin, Minnesota. Presiding was Victoria Bobence, State President. Following a coffee hour and registration, the Festival Singers of Aurora sang the opening song, “Naša Zvezina Himna” (Our Common Bond), which hopefully will become a tradition. The opening prayer was led by Romana Zic, of Opatija, Jugoslavia, a guest at the meeting and cousin of Acting Secretary, Adeline Mustonen, Soudan. Romana recited the Our Father, Hail Mary and Glory Be in Slovenian. The Minutes of our last meeting were approved as read. A message of greetings and best wishes for an enjoyable and fruitful day was relayed on behalf of our National President, Mary Muller, who was unable to attend. Branch reports were given. The membership campaign “Keep the Spirit Going” is on and we are encouraged to enroll junior members as it’s like “money in the bank”. The campaign is retroactive as of April 1, 1983. Pots and Pans cookbooks are now in the second printing and the sale of these cookbooks is one way to increase your branch treasuries. Father John Petrich, newly ordained priest of Ely, was sent a congratulatory card from the Slovenian Women’s Union. Fr. Petrich was a recipient of a S.W.U. Scholarship in 1979. Belated congratulations were made to Branch 56, Hibbing on their 50th Anniversary. We were happy to announce that Mary Koroshec of Gilbert was one of the 1983 S.W.U. Scholarship winners. Scholarships have been increased to $1000 as of May 1983 and five will be awarded in 1983-84. Memorials for deceased friends and relatives is an excellent way to increase the scholarship fund; cards are available for this purpose. Founders Day is set aside for the first Sunday in November, with Mass for our deceased members. Slovenian Women’s Union Heritage Day will be held in Minnesota in 1984, each state will lake their turn from then on. Branch presidents must be present to make plans with the date to be decided later. President Bobence visited the Heritage Museum in Joliet and was very impressed, over $15,000 has been contributed from the Heritage Days thus far; excellent facility to house old organizational books, national costumes and other artifacts. A recommendation was proposed by President Bobence whereby each person attending the Minnesota State Convention, would donate 25« toward a state treasury effective in 1984. Motion was made by Dorothy Jamnick and seconded that we add 50« per dinner ticket for the treasury to be reimbursed by the host branch; this was amended to read: An additional 501 would be collected by each branch for each dinner ticket purchased, to be paid by each local branch at the meeting of the S.W.U. State Convention; the motion was carried after a spirited discussion. The branch to host the Minnesota State Convention in 1984 will be Branch 52, Kitzville, it will be held on Sunday, September 9, 1984. Nominations for a new state president were opened. Rose Maras, Branch 56, Hibbing was nominated by Mary Johnson; Delores Heski, Branch 33, Duluth was nominated by Angela Mobilia. Motion by Anna Rose Smolich and seconded that the nominations be closed. By secret ballot, Rose Maras was elected the new Slate President, serving for four years. President Bobence congratulated Rose and presented the gavel to her. Rose Maras accepted the presidency graciously, thanked the ladies and said she hoped to be a good president. President Bobence expressed her thanks to Adeline Mustonen, acting secretary during her term in office. Ann Hodnik spoke to the group telling the members new officers should be chosen in the branches to create more interest; remember to send scholarship donations for memorials as these help students; also encourage junior members to be involved; scholarships are incentives to join S.W.U. Ann also showed heritage T-shirts and buttons that are for sale. The meeting closed with prayer by President Bobence. The Mass was held at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Keewatin, Minnesota with Father John O’Donnell officiating. In his homily he mentioned each one of us having “flavor” to contribute, and not to take revenge but work together. Organist during the Mass was Mary Spolarich who also sang, along with Phyllis Pavich. Hymns sung by the congregation were Češčena Marija and Lepa Si. A delicious Swiss steak dinner with special ethnic desserts of walnut potica and warm apple strudel was enjoyed; fresh garden flowers centered the tables and favors (bodeca neza) were given to each person. Toastmistress for the program was Jane Potter who read a letter from Mary Muller, expressing regrets at not being able to attend, congratulated the newly elected president and sent hopes to visit our beautiful north country. Entertainment during the dinner included songs by “Abundant Joy” who have a record for sale, vocal selections by Mary Spolarich, Phyllis Pavich and Bobbie Sajovic, with Mary providing the accordion accompaniment and vocal selections by the Aurora Festival Singers, directed by Ann Hodnik and accompanied by Anna Rose Smolich. The welcome was given by Mayor Dr. Dan Kelley and Josie Kapla, President of Branch 81. National Officers, Ann Hodnik, Youth Director and Victoria Bobence who is the newly elected Third National Auditor were introduced. Ann greeted the group in Slovenian; mentioned the Heritage Museum; T-shirts, buttons and bumper stickers are for sale, money will go to support the S.W.U. Heritage Museum; encouraged everyone to contribute to their branch and thanked Branch 81, Keewatin for their wonderful hospitality. Victoria Bobence talked about the first National Board meeting she attended, audited books found in excellent order; remember Corinne in her sorrow upon the passing of her husband; how she enjoyed her day in Lemont, Illinois spent with Ann Hodnik as guests at Br. 2 Zveza Day; thanked the group for the honor and privilege of being State President; congratulated Rose Maras and concluded with a poem, “Things that Never Die”. Mothers of the Year present were remembered with gifts of wine; winners of prizes were: $75 Bond, Walter Knuth; afghan, Chickie Novak; and baby afghan, Mary indihar. Father O’Donnell closed with an Irish blessing. Branch 81, Keewatin did a tremendous job and all of the 250 in attendance were overwhelmed with such a warm and lovely reception. As outgoing President, I want to take this opportunity to thank you one and all, for the cooperation I received during my term in office. I enjoyed it; it was indeed a privilege and an honor. May God bless you and keep you in his loving care! Victoria Bobence National Auditor MINUTES OF THE ILLINOIS-INDIANA STATE CONVENTION Oct. 2,1983, Ferdinand Hall, Joliet, Illinois Regional President Angela Nico opened the meeting with greetings to all officers, delegates, members and guests. Rev. David Stalzer gave the opening prayer. Members of the National Board of S.W.U. were introduced as follows: Mary Muller, National President; Olga Ancel, National Secretary; Sylvia Vukodinovich, National Treasurer; Corinne Leskovar, National Editor. The delegates were introduced: Branch 2 - Chicago, Mary F. Laurctig; Branch 16 - South Chicago, Margaret Spretnjak; Branch 20 - Joliet, Agnes Lovati; Branch 22 -Bradley, Mary Rittmanic; Branch 24 - LaSalle, Wanita Helmer; Branch 89 - Oglesby, Mary Kern/; Branch 95 -South Chicago, Mildred James. The following branches had no representation: Branch 5 - Indianapolis, (Josephine Turk) - absent; Branch 85 - DePue, III.; Branch 99 - Elmhurst, III. Angela Nico reported that the questionnaires she sent to the delegates showed that there were no complaints and few suggestions. She invited constructive criticism as a means of working together as a team. Rudy Pueel, President of the Illinois Federation of KSKJ extended a welcome to the group in attendance. On Motion made by Mildred James and seconded by Agnes Lovati, and unanimously accepted, the reading of the 1982 Minutes was dispensed. The following extended a welcome to the group convened: Mary Muller, National President, Sylvia Vukadinovieh, National Treasurer and Olga Ancel, National Secretary who stressed the theme of the convention “Keep the Spirit Going”. Corinne Leskovar, National Editor, in her welcoming speech noted that four of the national officers were from Illinois. She also spoke of three projects that we must work on during the year - Heritage Fund, Slovenian Miners and Laborers Memorial Fund and the Scholarship Fund. BRANCH 2 - MARY F. LAURETIG, DELEGATE Greetings from Branch 2, Chicago. We are happy to have 25 of our members here today. At present we have 278 adults and 109 juniors. We have an attendance of 45-55 members at our monthly meetings. We have quite a few elderly members, also others who live in the suburbs, which makes it difficult for them to attend most of our meetings. After we dispose of the business at hand at our sessions, we have a social hour with refreshments, prizes and popular games. The proceeds go into our Sunshine Fund, which provides gifts for the hospitalized members and for birthday and get-well cards for our out-of-town members. This year we honored our 50 year members with a gift of acknowledgement. We sponsor the yearly pilgrimage to Lemont in July, a Penny Social in November for our juniors’ Christmas Party, an adult Christmas Party and a Mother’s Day celebration in May. Once a month we have a mass said for our ailing members and we had a mass for deceased supreme officer, Albina Novak, in December. Projects and activities contemplated at this time are for junior members: 1st - CPR and first aid training for which, on satisfactory completion, they will receive a certificate. 2nd - A retreat is planned, based on Col. James Irwin’s religious experience on his lunar mission who said, “God walking on the earth is more important than man walking on the moon.” This will be the theme. Improvements within the organization - our branch suggests to encourage more attendance at meetings, to get involved and participate in the execution of organizational projects. As to approval of organization business - no specific comments. We have no specific comments or disapproval. As a former delegate, both on a state and national level, I wish to suggest (with which other former delegates concur) that at a national convention, the various committees be granted more time to prepare and mull over material that is to be presented to the board and delegation. BRANCH 5 - Absent (Angela Nico read the following report which we obtained by telephone from Josephine Turk). Do charity work - have 5 meetings of which 2 are parties - the Mother’s Day and Christmas Party. Pay $5.00 each to hospitalized members and $6.00 each for deceased members for mass. Have one annual event, a sausage sale in March; and made $196.00 for expenses throughout the year. The members are good at paying the dues. Meeting attendance 5-6; party attendance 10 -12. Contribute to two charities: Church - flowers and National Home - contributions for kitchen ... Air conditioner, etc. to help. BRANCH 16- MARG. SPRETNJAK, DELEGATE We have 147 adults, 41 juniors and 12 social members with an attendance of 35 - 40 at our meetings. Projects and activities at present or contemplated. In October, our Ways and Means Chairlady, Ana Lustig, will give prizes to pay for the bus which brought us to the convention. Also, our Vice-President, JoAnn James and three of our young mothers are holding a penny social to help defray the cost of our Children’s Christmas Party. In November, a Mass will be offered to honor our Founders, Mrs. Marie Prisland and Mrs. Albina Novak, and to pray for all our deceased members. In December, our children’s Christmas party is held on a Sunday afternoon in our Church Hall. The adults’ party is usually held on our regular meeting night at a restaurant or banquet hall. In the Spring, we have a fund raising Games Party on a Sunday afternoon. We also sponsor a bowling team to represent us in the Annual Spring Tournament. In May we hold our Woman or Mother of the Year party in the Church hall with a catered dinner. We try to instill a spiritual meaning to the program with a May crowning of the Blessed Virgin Mary. When one of our members pass away, we pray the Rosary at the wake and, when possible, act as honorary pallbearers. We donate an offering to the Scholarship Fund in their memory. Last but not least, we encourage and try to organize a good representation of members to our State Convention, Zveza Day in Lemont, Heritage Days and participation in the activities of our nearby SWU Branches. What improvements within the organization is your branch suggesting - More members — no idea how! What do your members especially approve of within the organization - ZARJA magazine - hope we don’t lose any more issues... SWU sponsored events such as the Scholarship Fund, Sale of Pots and Pans Cookbooks, involvement in the Baraga Days and the Slovenian 6 /ARJA—'I III DAWN Miner’s and Laborer’s Memorial. We try to participate and contribute to all these projects. In order to get new members, outside guests are invited and some new members are obtained in this manner. 1 am happy to report that thirty members are in attendance at today’s meeting. BRANCH 20-AGNES LOV ATI, DELEGATE Number of members in your brunch at present - 593 -238A - 22313 - i 19 Jr. - 13 Socials. How many members allend your meetings - Varies depending on many factors, including weather, the activities of other organizations, and the day’s programs. Projects and activities a! present or contemplated -Working on the Heritage Room - After this convention we will be starting on the National Convention to be held in Joliet in 1987. What improvements within the organization is your branch suggesting - Participation and support of any branch function, as well as helping other fraternal and church organizations. We are trying to make our meetings more interesting to attract the young adults, and also trying to find something of interest for the juniors. What do your members especially approve of within the organization - They approve of the sociability and of being able to help the Branch grow, and maintain high standards and be an important part of the community, the church, and a leader among other fraternal organizations. What do your members disapprove of - They voiced no disapproval of our Branch. Other suggestions, ideas or improvements - We try to keep our branch active, we sponsor a bowling team in our league which has started its 47th year of bowling with 4 six man teams. We have a monthly attendance drawing of $50.00 to encourage meeting attendance. To encourage dues paid early, any one paying by March 1st is entitled to a drawing for a year’s free dues. We also have a Grape Festival Dance every year to help pay for our over 80 members. Next month we are having a picnic style meeting with husbands and friends invited. BRANCH 22 - MARY RUT MANIC, DELEGATE It was reported that there are 14 members and 3 social memebrs and that 12 usually attend the meetings which are held every other month. Projects and activities at present or contemplated: Volunteer work at St. Mary’s Hospital, St. Joseph’s Church, Heritage House, Lady of Victoria, the last two of which are nursing homes. Also visit the sick, mainly to respond to the Zveza requests and also honor all members with a banquet on Mother’s Day. An item is given away at each meeting. The members especially approve of gifts to United Parents, the gift of Mass for members at Christmas and the giving of donations to charity. No comments were made of disapproval, suggestions ideas or improvements. BRANCH 24 - WANI I A HELMER, DELEGATE We have 119 members, 15 junior members and Iwo social, many of whom live out of town or due to age or illness, cannot be active. Approximately 15 attend our meetings. We have 7 members in attendance today. Since our last convention, we’ve had quite an active year. We began with the film on The Life of Bishop Baraga and his missionary work which was shown by Fr. Bernard Horzen of St. Bede and a brother of our member, Jo Foley. Resurrection Church opened to the public and 1 noticed Dr. Lukančič and his family were among those attending, originally a Joliet resident and member of St. Joseph’s. There was a free-will offering of $48.00 which was turned over to Fr. Bernard, who sent it on to promote Bishop Baraga’s causes for canonization. In December, we had our Christmas Dinner Party at the Paramount Supper Club. Our member, Christine Witek, does the cooking there and always has some special dishes when we come. Rather than a gift exchange, it was dccidcd that we would donate to the Community Food Pantry for the needy, and $27.00 was donated to this cause. In May, we had a Social outing and a bus trip to Aurora to the Paramount Art Center for an afternoon of music by the Lawrence Welk group and a dinner following. There was a full bus of 46 members and guests. May found us back at the Paramount Club in LaSalle for our Mother of the Year Dinner celebration. We honored Agnes Ostrowski and had our pastor and spiritual advisor as a special guest. Just a week ago, we concluded our year with a successful bake sale. Our members were most cooperative, along with many lovely cakes, pies, cookies, etc. We had many strudels and noodles, the Slovenian delight. We are considering a trip in November to our Cathedral in Peoria for the Holy Year. During this year also, several of our members rode to Chicago with Angie Nico, who graciously drove to the visitation for Anne Kompare, and this summer to the visitation for Lud Leskovar, husband of our Editor, Corinne. Our members - Sick Committee - visit our sick members, our Branch sends cards and our deceased are remembered with two mass offerings and the recitation of the Rosary. We are sorry that we lost four members since the beginning of this year. We serve as Honorary Pallbearers also. As to the question of what improvements within the organization is your branch suggesting - none, and as to what do your members especially approve of within the organization - the magazine and days like this to meet our members. No comments with regard to members’ disapproval and as to other suggestions, ideas or improvements we just had our National Convention where many things were considered. $1.00 profit on cook book. BRANCH 85- Absenl In the absence of the delegate, Angela Nico reported that this branch has 27 members and no meetings were held all year. As to projects and activities at present or contemplated - the group wanted information about going to Canada - Society for Musicians, etc. Had no suggestions for improvements within the organization, no comment on approval or disapproval. BRANCH 89 - MARY KERNZ, DELEGATE We have 47 members and about 15 - 20 attend our meetings. Our projects and activities are cards for the sick and elderly, hold bake sales, bowling, visiting nursing homes, Red Cross volunteers, cook book sale - to date we sold 180 cook books, Christmas Party and May dinner. For improvements - more new members. We approve of good fellowship, scholarship, heritage days, heritage room, Lemont days and the recipes in the ZARJA. We disapprove of nothing. The Bowling Tournament will be sponsored by Branch 89 next April 7 and 8 at Palace Alleys in LaSalle. We hope you all come, and will have an al'ghan to be given away. To be continued... IRENE ODORIZZI:----------- 2362 Paddock Lane Reston, Va. 22091 —THE IMMIGRANT YUS TI NA from VODICE NEAR LJUBLJANA Pari II The first words that we learned as Americans were “Shut up!” This we learned from the children who lived on the other side of the fence. They didn’t understand what were saying in Slovene, so they kept telling us to “shut up.” We asked our Dad what it meant, and he explained that it meant, “it was enough.” Soon after we arrived in Portland, Marija, Frank, and I walked a couple of blocks to Division Street where we would meet Dad coming from the brick yard where he worked. As we stood waiting on the corner by the grocery store, 1 was curious about the vegetables which were displayed in boxes on the sidewalk. I took a sweet potato, curious as to how it could taste. When we returned home, I put it into the oven, which already hot. Mama became curious as to what 1 was doing when 1 kept opening the oven. She soon found out when she opened the oven herself, looked in, and found the warm potato. “Justina, come here right away,” she spoke firmly in Slovene. 1 immediately responded and sensing something was wrong when 1 saw the oven door open and Mama standing next to it pointing inside. “Where did you get that potato?” “At the store when we were waiting for Dad.” “Did you pay for it?” “No, Mama.” “Then it is a stolen potato.” She proceeded to lecture me, and because the potato was almost baked, I didn’t have to take it back to the store and tell the grocer what I had done. But, I did get a very good scolding. The summer seemed to end too soon, and my Dad was questioned about school for the children. There was not any question as to whether we would go. The Kalk girls took us to school, and it was a long walk from Grant and 30th to Powell and 26th where the school was located. We walked in all kinds of weather. I remember how hard those first few months were, but soon we were reading our first grade book. 1 had memorized the words, but didn’t know what I was reading, until I became more familiar with the language. It was easier to learn by being with other children, and within a short time we were speaking our new language and not Slovenian anymore. October of 1908 brought another member of the family into our lives. Amelia, our new baby sister called “Tootsie,” was born. Two years later we moved out quite a ways “into the sticks.” Dad had purchased six lots for $750.00 and built a house. The property had to be cleared of brush, poison oak, and rocks. It took quite a bit of tilling and soil preparation before a garden could be planted for Mama. Dad worked on the house as he saved money and bought what was the most needed. It was quite a long time before the top floor was installed; until that time we lived on the sub-floor which had many knot holes into © Irene M. Planinšek Odorizzi, 1983 8 which “Toots” had fun poking things, like the comb and button hook for our button shoes. They always appeared to be missing when we were in a hurry to go to school. Dad solved this problem by nailing the tops of cans over the holes until the new floor was laid. We were a poor family but never hungry. When we lived in Slovenia we owned a cow, and did so in America as well. Dad always said, “My children must have milk.” Mama milked the cow, and on occasion if she didn’t feel well, Frank took over the milking, but the cow must have recognized the unfamiliar hands and Frank usually returned with only an inch of milk in the bucket. Dad worked very hard and the pay was poor, especially to support a family of five. Try as she would, to stretch his pay, there were times when Mama, who had Americanized her name from “Mana” to “Mary,” had to borrow a dollar from our neighbor for streetcar fare for the rest of the week. Wherever they could save a little bit, my parents did. Every fall Dad made a large barrel of sauerkraut. Then he butchered a pig, and Mama would fill the large crocks with lard and cracklings, smoke the meat and make sausages. Dad also said we must have fruit, so he ordered boxes of apples for the winter and stored them on the dirt basement floor. Dad was very conscious of what we ate. “You must have the right kind of food to be healthy.” There was lots of boiling beef, a chicken once in a while, homemade noodles, home baked bread, and as a special treat she made large doughnuts. When you think about it, those really weren’t the “good old days” as Mama worked very hard and had no conveniences. Large wash tubs had to be filled with water to wash clothes and then carried out and emptied into the yard. Clothes were rubbed by hand on a wash board in order that the grime and stains would disappear. In summer, Mother washed outside; in winter or bad weather the clothes were hung in the kitchen and the stove provided the warmth for drying. Wedding bells rang in 1914! My sister, Mary, then moved to Tacoma, Washington, where her husband, Pete, also a Slovenian, worked for the railroad. They remained there until 1918, then moved back to Portland. In August of 1917, a young Slovene immigrant, George Misetich, visited our neighbors. He was interested in buying a motorcycle from their son. The neighbors arranged an introduction with our family because we were also Slovene. My Dad asked him in, and we became acquainted. What I most recall of that first meeting was that my long hair had just been shampooed. It evidently didn’t make a difference because next week, he returned and asked to take me to a show. Mama insisted that we also take along my brother, Frank, but that was the only time my younger brother accompanied us. Thereafter, we frequently went out on Saturday evening, the only day George didn’t work at the bakery. After we met, George forgot about even taking the motorcycle out for a ride, thank heavens, because a friend of his made the unfortunate mistake of doing so and hit a telephone pole, cracking his head badly. By this time George became very interested in me and even introduced me to his friend for a kind of an “Okay.” Mama and Dad also liked him very well. George was born on March 28, 1894, in the village of Grabovnik, in Hercegovina, near Ljubushki, quite a distance from my village of Vodice. His parents, Nikola and Anna Misetich, reared seven boys; all except two died in infancy. George was the eldest, and finally at the age of ten, he began school, because the walking distance for a younger child was too great. His education lasted until he was fourteen when he went to work for his Uncle who was a priest. Father Ambrose’s parish was about 40 miles from George’s home, so he worked for him off and on for about three years. Then another Uncle asked him to come to Bosnia where he remained until word came from still another of his uncles. Uncle Tony wrote, “Come to America. 1 will send you the money.” It was happy news because his Uncle Tony, also a brother of George’s father who had been in America since 1907 would pay the $80.00 for his voyage to America. George was elated and immediately secured his passport and completed the necessary papers which would allow him to leave for America. On March 3, 1912, he told his mother goodbye. George celebrated his eighteenth birthday on the ship. Time and again he thanked his Uncle Tony for rescuing him from three years of compulsory duty in Kaiser Franz Joseph’s Army. The Austrian Kaiser had taken over the entire territory in 1908, from the Turks who had ruled it for 400 years, and required all able-bodied young men to serve a minimum of three years in the Army. A few years later, the First World War began, and George would have been required to serve in the Austrian forces. He repaid his Uncle for this ticket soon after arriving in America. His final destination was Portland, Oregon and his Uncle secured employment for him with the American Can Company at ten cents an hour, or $1.00 a day for ten hours. His next job was dishwashing in a cafeteria, for 12 hours a day with meals included. From here he began working in a bakery for $2.00 per day. George lived with his bachelor uncle until Tony married in 1915, then boarded with the newly married couple, until we married in April of 1918. George was twenty-four and I had just turned eighteen. 1 always said that 1 would wait until turning 18 before marrying, and our wedding took place April 21st, four days after my birthday. Our first child, a boy, was born on March 15, 1919, but we lost him. In January of 1921, our first daughter, Helen, was born, and the following January 1922, our second daughter, Betty, arrived. George worked the night shift for many years so he was only home one evening a week, Saturday. This gave me evenings alone with my girls and much enjoyment watching them learn and grow. My only regret is that they grew up too fast and soon were in school. Those early years of marriage with my youngsters were some of the best years of my life. Applying for citizenship papers became a big task. 1 was the only one of the three children who had to apply for papers. My sister, Mary, was automatically a citizen when she married. Frank, also under 21 but unmarried, automatically became a citizen. I was under twenty-one, but married to an immigrant, so Dad’s citizenship didn’t apply to me. When I applied for my naturalization papers we searched through documents for my entry into the U.S. and through relatives who traveled with us were able to identify the name of the Swedish vessel and check the passenger list. Then came the lessons and preparation for the test. My husband and I passed the difficult test, and were proud not only of becoming Americans, but of passing the testing ordeal which required knowledge of a new language and the history and government of our new homeland. After only fourteen years in America, we lost our dear Mother from cancer in May 1921. My sister “Toots” was only twelve years old. Father managed by himself until 1950, when at the age of 82 years, he passed away. Both mother and father worked long hours and sacrificed much so we children would have a much better life here in America. Dear Lord, bless them for their love and care! Let me skip down memory lane through many decades of time otherwise this story would be much too long. Soon our girls, Helen and Betty married and began to raise their own families. Children have always been such a big part of my life that I am blessed to see and enjoy six grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren grow. George and I have celebrated over 66 years of wedded bliss and we are thankful to the Lord for bringing us together. During the past few years, he has had two heart pacemakers installed, but rallied through those operations and is getting alone fine, still possessing a great sense of humor, fine singing voice, and lovely, thick, white hair. We have many laughs together which they say, is the key to happiness. Hopefully, the Lord will bless us with continued good health so that we can continue to enjoy more years together, watching those we love so dearly and enjoying the friendship and companionship of friends and relatives, here in beautiful America. End Part II Many thanks to Yustina Misetich of Branch 'No. 45, Portland, Oregon for sending in her storv which was adapted for the Immigrant Series by Irene M. Planinšek Odorizzi. Mr. & Mrs. Misetich now live in Milwaukee, Oregon and we congratulate them on their long life together and the fine family. We wish them continued good health and happiness together. . AMERICAN SLOVENIAN CATHOLIC UNION LIFE INSURANCE FOR THE FAMILY HOME OFFICE: 2439 GLENWOOD AVENUE • JOLIET, IL 60435 (815) 741-2001 DKCEMBKR, 198.1 9 Š I D D IS DDfl@S NO. 1, SHEBOYGAN, Wl The Octobcr meeting was opened with a prayer by all. Minutes were read by recording secretary, Agnes Gruenke and approved. A thank you note was acknowledged from Corinne Leskovar and family. I was approved to give a donation to the American Lung Associaton. The members who attended the state convention hosted by Branch No. 17, commented that it was beneficial. The program and banquet was enjoyed. Thank you Agnes Gruenke for taking care of the transportation. We were reminded of the Founders Mass, November 6th. Please note: On December 20 we will attend Mass at 6 p.m. in St. Cyril & Meth. Church, followed by a pot-luck supper. Also, we will hold our annual meeting and there will be a Christmas program. Try to attend to share in the spirit of this Christmas Season. Meeting was adjourned. The social hostesses were: Ruth Sheck, Dorothy Brezonik, Agnes Gruenke and Margaret Fischer. We were all in costume for the Halloween party. Our favorite game, “B,” was played and we had an enjoyable evening. It was most gratifying to read in the October issue of the ZARJA that Mrs. Josephine Vogrin, a member of our branch, donated her home for a Slovenian Heritage Library. Our branch congratulates you, Mrs. Vogrin, upon your dedication to the Slovenian people. May God Bless you! Thoughts and prayers for the shut-ins. Blessed Holidays to all the National Officers and to all members everywhere! Happy Birthday Zveza! (December I9tli) 57years old. We will dispense with January 1984 meeting. MARGARET FISCHER, Reporter NO. 2, CHICAGO, II, October was election month for Branch 2. The meeting was well attended by the membership, and also included some new faces. Sally Kavcic gave a audit report from Jan-July 83 with approval by all. Michael Morison gave a talk about the C.P.R. and first aid classes to be held in the church basement for our youth. Michael will be organizing these classes and hoping to attract a large response. “Christmas Cheer Baskets” will be given to our elderly members during the holidays. Women will also be visiting members in the homes and hospitals with gifts of cookies to cheer them. On the Oct. sick list are the following: Anna Vozel in the hospital for surgery and Molly Cerjanc home from the hospital. Recuperating are Frances Silko and Helen Storcz. Pray for them. Birthday ladies: Mary Ozbolt will be 96 years young on Jan. 18. Anna Ahacich, 96 years Oct. 29, and Elsie Melissa will be 80 years young. Happy Birthday to all! The children’s Christmas parly will be held on Dec. 3rd at 1:00 p.m. Santa will give out gifts to those eligible from new born to 10 years of age. There will be a lot of surprises and a fun time for all. The planning committee is the Ray Nusko family with Santa’s helpers. The adult festivities will be on Dec. 8th, with Mass at 7:30 which is the feast of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin. Also on this day there will be Mass for ailing members. Afterward the, reception will be held at the “Holiday Inn’ in the lower Church hall. Hosts & hostesses for the evening arc Phyllis & Jerry Marmozewicz, and Alice & Terry Morison. Price of the tickets is $2.00 for memebrs and $5.00 for guests. Tickets must be purchased by Dec. 1. Grab Bag is $3.00, but optional. Please indicate “male” or “female” on the gifts. Board of Officers for 1984: President, Fran Morison; Vice-President, Mary Lauretig; Secretary, Dolores Puhek; Treasurer, Alice Morison; Recording Secretary, Gloria Nusko; Reporters Ana Gaber (Slovenian), Ann Scieszka (English); Kitchen help, Anne Tcrdin and Joanne (Podder) Kochniarczyk; Seninial Luba Troha; Auditors Lil Siebert, Sally Kavcic and Stella Gorka. We extend our thanks lo out-going officers, Jean Zubek, seven years as secretary and Lil Putzell, 13 years as treasurer. They were very dedicated officers. To our members who have moved away, a special “Thank You” for your continued support. We miss you. Happy Wedding Anniversaries! Jean and “Bo” Zubek celebrated their 30th on Oct. 16th and later in October, the senior Gabers observed their 50th! Sincere congratulations and many more happy anniversaries. Jean and “Bo” are diligent helpers in our branch, parish and community. Mrs. Ana Gaber writes beautifully in the Slovenian section of each issue of ZAR.IA and keeps the public aware of all activities with articles in the Slovenian newspapers, too. She and Mr. Gaber are very active with the Missions, Baraga Society and St. Stephen’s church. God bless you all. Merry Christmas and God’s Blessing for a very happy and healthy New Year from tlie officers! Your Reporter, ANN SCIESZKA NO. 12. MILWAUKEE, W'l The Halloween spirit caught one’s eye when entering out meeting place as Jo Wilhelm as usual spent her time ahead to make things pleasant for us. A very good crowd was there and after Frances Plesko started the meeting with prayers in Slovenian, roll call and reports were all read and accepted. It was decided to have a sit down dinner again for our December meeting with gift exchange. The gift is to be worth at least $2. Those who do not wish to get a gift won’t have to bring one. The older members in Nursing Homes were also discussed. The meeting opened with prayer led by Stavia Dobersek who was also congratulated on her election as new Regional President for Wisconsin. “Happy Birthday” was sung for Margie Brekan, Evelyn La u rich, Pauline Schweigel, Ann Grambow, Celia Kastelic. They all donated treats for a very good luncheon which we all enjoyed. Door prizes were also donated by Stavia, Jo Wilhelm, Marie Brekan, Evelyn Laurich, Ann Jelinek, Ann Grambow, Julia Pešec, Jo Rozman, Gertie Schunk, Alma Hoelzer, Betty Stark, Frances Plesko, Frances Udovich, Leona Zigman, Jennie Zelesnikar and Mary Kiel who was on a tour to New England. Mary Starich, Olga Fredericks, Evelyn Laurich and Mary Ann Stima took care of serving us. They arc the usual food helpers. Thanks to all who helped and who donated. MARY DEZMAN NO. 13, SAN FRANCISCO, CA Autumn is here in California. But the weather is beautiful and mild. Like the green leaves that turn to yellow, the autumn of our lives is nearing to the end of rainbow and broken dreams. Yet we must go on and hope and trust in the Almighty. A story I have heard is of a man with a terminal cancer. But he decided to help himself by being cheerful and smiling all the time. Because he was wealthy he ordered all kinds of funny jokes and with laughing all the time, his cancer went away. So is the lesson for us. Be kind, generous, forgive the hurts. Offer it up to God. Smile and sing and all the pains will disappear! Our Zveza meetings are every first Thursday each month at 1 p.m. day time. In the Slovenian Home. After meeting we have a brunch lunch and all in good faith we get to know each other. Husband of our member, Millie Šterbank died in September. Joe Šterbank left his wife and daughter, Shirley Cooper. Joe was always interested in our Society. Joe Šterbank was the nephew of Mary Slanec who was President of Br. 13 Zveza for many years. Our President now for the last 12 years, Josephine Aiuto, is doing very well. Our deepest sympathy to the family of Joe Šterbank. Vinka Copec, our member has had a little boy, her third child. Congratulations! As 1 write this, 1 had to excuse myself for the mistake that was made in October ZARJA. 1 was writing about the wedding of our organist, Aleč Šimenc, son Tom, and his beautiful bride, Debra Ann Loza. The singing in church was beautiful. The choir sang Sanctus from Hadyn, the great Amen and number 150 psalm which our organist Aleš Šimenc alone improvised. It was magnificent. Our 11 year old Diane Fir sang some solos. She is also our member and so is her beautiful mother. To all our sick members, speedy recovery and Happy Christmas to all. POLDICA PODGORNIK NO. 14, EUCLID, OH Where has this past summer gone? Already the fall leaves are turning lovely shades of red and gold. The clouds are skipping heavily through the dark skies and before long a coat of snow will cover our once flourishing gardens and lawns. Our card party took place on a typical fall Sunday afternoon and we were delighted with the fine turnout, lleene Collins and her hard-working co-chairlady, Marge Koran, and their committee and officers did an outstanding job in organizing this fun afternoon. Mrs. Collins wishes to thank all of the members and their families who helped set up for the day and who worked in various ways throughout the day. Thanks to everyone who donated baked goods for the bake sale and the donated prizes along with the gifts from many merchants too numerous to mention. We appreciate the support from all our guests who attended and hope to see you once again at our next card party! The member Christmas Party/Dinner is our next big event on December 6 and is another of our well attended functions. Be sure to call Sect. Donna Tome at 481-9374 for your reservation. Our branch is delighted to send sincerest congratulations to member Olga Ozanich and her husband who recently celebrated their 60th Anniversary! And best wishes to Mary and Max Gcrl who celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on October 21. Max and Mary, who have been active in the Euclid community for many years, and Mr. & Mrs. Ozanich are wished many more years of joy and health from their families and many friends. Vice Pres. Mary Stražišar (Arrowhead) returned from her trip to Fatima and reported that she had a most inspirational tour to this historic, holy shrine. It was a delight to welcome back to our meeting Mary Koljat who had accidentally burned her hand while making tomato sauce. On our sick list are Mary Mandich from Florida, who is presently residing with her son in Columbus; Mary Novinc had been hospitalized and had surgery is now recuperating at home; and Mrs. Udevich has been ill and is now also living with her sons. Agnes Lasch has her cast removed and is doing much better. May our ill members have a speedy recovery and return to good health and sun shiney days. May you all enjoy a very Blessed Christmas and very Happy New Year filled with love and peace! ALICE KUHAR NO. 16. SO. CHICAGO, 1L After the meeting opened with a prayer, our Penny Social and prize tickets were sold. Marge Spretnjak, our delegate to the State Convention, gave her report. Also, Ann Lustig then told us of her plans for the Christinas Party. For up-to-date information, you may contact Ann at 221-4586 or call Gladys Buck at 221-0475. Our sunshine prizes were won by Gladys Buck, first prize, a beautiful piece of coral from Mexico donated by Edna Winters; second, a trinket box won by Mary Brebrick and third, a dollar won by Edna Winters. Our vice-president, Joanie James, then held our Penny Social, assisted by Beverly Matushek and Chris Whalen. Very well done, girls! Birthdays this month were celebrated by Andrea Krai, Dorothy Perko, Phyllis Perko, Millie Skul, Mary Ann Starcevich, Edna Winters and Fran Zupančič who all brought desserts for us to enjoy. Get well wishes to Sean Monahan, Ann Klobučar, Jennie Glusac and Mike Perko. Our condolences to the family of Joseph Kuhel, brother of Ruth Cubra, Zora Yurkis and Helen Milanovich. Hope you all enjoy your holidays. ANDREA KRAL * Sincere wishes fora Happy Christmas and New Year! OFFICERS & DELEGATES BR. 50, CLEVELAND, OHIO Ann Tercek, President Dorothy Winter, Vice-President Irene Jagodnik, Secretary- Treasurer Ann Winter and Ann Ryavec, Delegates WEST ALLIS MEMBERS REJOICE! NO. 17, WEST ALLIS, W1 With the coming of the winter season, Christmas is close at hand which means our December meeting and Christmas social that will be held with the distribution of the children’s gifts and exchange of a $2.00 gift among the members, optional. A delicious lunch and desserts will be served. Donation of desserts will be greatly appreciated - bring your favorite! Kindly call President, Marion Marolt 327-3871 or secretary, Marie Floryan, 327-1444 for donation of bakery. The annual meeting date is December 18, 1983 at 2:00 p.m at St. Mary’s Church in Baraga Hall. It is very important that members attend this annual meeting, as it is time for election of officers and other important business matters will be discussed for the coming year. Circle the date on your calendar as a reminder, Dec. 18th! Our 55th anniversary combined with the 23rd Wisconsin Regional Convention was held on Sunday, September 25, 1983, which turned out to be a great success. Despite the rainy and gloomy day, this memorable event started early with cars driving in from Br. No. 1 Sheboygan, Br. No. 12 and No. 43 from Milwaukee, No. 102 Willard, and also our local branch members. The convention meeting was brought to order and opened by the National Auditor and local Br. No. 17 President, Marion M. Marolt, who was appointed the acting State President for the day. There were discussions on many of the various issues in question and were resolved by some of the National Officers present, Mary Muller, President Olga Ancel, Secretary, Sylvia Vukodinovich, treasurer, and Hermine Dicke, Scholarship Director. Congratulations to Stavia Dobersek, president of Br. No. 12, who is the newly elected Wisconsin State President. After the meeting, the officers and members marched in a body to St. Mary’s Church to attend the 11:30 a.m. High Mass celebrated by Reverend Fred Smith, our pastor and chaplain of SWU Br. No. 17. Rev. Smith gave a short homily and congratulated the attendance on this special occasion. Many thanks to Miss Josephine Imperl, our organist and to the choir for their wonderful rendition of the singing of the Holy Mass and the Slovenian hymns. After a short cocktail hour, we were treated to a delicious banquet dinner catered by Carls Catering Service. Lillian Hartmann, daughter of our charter member, Josephine Paucek is indeed a master of her trade in the art of catering. Her expertise was greatly appreciated. President Marion Marion welcomed the guests and introduced our “ambassador of good will,” Mr. Anton Verbick, the toastmaster. After an exchange of pleasantries, he introduced our West Allis Mayor, Jack Barlich and wife Helen, who are also of Slovene descent. The Mayor spoke a few words and congratulated the assembled guests. Reverend Fred Smith, our spiritual advisor, also congratulated the guests and gave an inspiring speech. The USPEH Chorus under the direction of Professor Leo C. Muskatevc, sang a variety of Slovenian songs. The audience was most pleased with the selections and especially thrilled to have them sing the Zveza hymn. Many thanks! Mr. Muskatevc, we are proud that you have furthered the Slovene heritage thru music here in our area. We wish you and the chorus our whole hearted success in this endeavor. Our retired SWU No. 17 chaplain, Rev. Matthew J. Setnicar, also congratulated the assembly with a short speech in English and Slovenian. Marion Marolt then honored the charter members: Josephine Schlosar, the organizer and Honorary President: Josephine Nimmer(Mrs. Schlosar’s daughter); Mary Petrich and Josephine Paucek. Mrs. Schlosar received a plaque designated as organizer and honorary president; Josephine Nimmer and Mary Petrich, plaques as charter members, and Josephine Paucek, a plaque as charter member and “Fraternalist of the Year” award. In behalf of Mrs. Schlosar, Mrs. Nimmer addressed the guests with a short history of her mother’s terms of office and thanked the branch for their gifts. Her family and relatives were all there with the exception of one granddaughter and husband, Nancy and Tom Behling, of Scottsdale, Arizona to help her celebrate this happy occasion. The Schlosar family is the first family in our branch to have 5 generations all enrolled in our branch! Congratulations! The “Woman of the Year”, Fran Piwoni, was presented a gift and a rose by Marie A. Floryan in behalf of the branch. A candle lighting ceremony for the living and deceased members of the branch, was presented. The “Past” was spoken by Josephine Nimmer; “Present,” Lillian Hartmann; and “Future,” Robin Marolt. Our heartfelt thanks to the Reverend fathers, National Officers, honored guests, Branches No. 1, 12, 43, No. 102 and No. 17, officers and friends from near and far, in helping us make our anniversary affair a very special event in our book of memories. Many thanks to all who donated prizes bakery, beverages, cash, labor, time or any services rendered to make our dinner a huge success. For all the joy you’ve wished us and for your presence here - now that this day is over and our guests have gone away - the memory of this joyous occasion will ever with us stay. A speedy recovery to our ailing and shut ins. May God bless you each with his choicest blessings. Throughout this Christinas season may you find new joys, renew old friendships and rejoice in happy memories. May the new year bring fulfillment of your brightest hopes. For every Christinas candle, lliat glows on Christmas night, may some gladness come to you, to make your Christmas bright. May the pleasant memories of this joyous season last to cheer your heart along after its happy hours are past. MARIE A. FLORYAN NO. 19, EVELETH, MN The holidays arc fast approaching and it is time again for our Christmas social. The party will be held, as usual, on the first Sunday of December (the 4th) at 1:30 p.m. at Resurrection Church Hall. Our October planning meeting was poorly attended so it was decided to hold a coffee an’ with members bringing sweets, party sandwiches, crackers and cheese, nuts or other goodies, if they wish. We certainly hope that all of you will take the opportunity to get together. Our last event was in May, to honor our Woman of the Year, Mary Charnowski. A brunch was served at the Holiday Inn and it was well attended. Wishing everyone Happy Holidays! VIDA LANARI, Sec’y FINDING YOUR ROOTS Pari II “Tracing Your Roots in America” The third step in your adventure into the past is to check at the County Courthouse for documents which were not preserved by the family. Look for birth certificates and marriage certificates in the courthouse where these are recorded. Or, try the local parish church, in the city where the relative may have lived. These documents will provide the father’s name giving you a lead into the next generation. In order that you obtain these certificates, you must be equipped with the name of the individual and the approximate year of the event. If you need further help with locating these items you may wish to write to: U.S. Government Printing Office Superintendent of Documents Washington, D.C. 20402 Ask for the following booklets (35^Trrrimmry7nrB~0Tr8'rTr0Trirg~r»mrrB^~rrirB~B~y^ b BTnre^nnnnrft bbtt NO. 73, WARRENSVIELE UTS, OH This year our annual month of October “Mystery Trip” took place Friday, October 21st, at Kuhar’s Lounge and Smorgasboard Restaurant in Geneva, Ohio. There were forty-eight men and women on the Southeastern Trailways Bus out of Bedford, Ohio. Our Secretary Louise Epley, once more permitted us to park our cars on her acreage and to have the bus pick up the party goers there. We want to thank her once again for this privilege. The atmosphere, the food, the organist who played for dancing and singing was excellent. Alter a fine evening, the group got back at the Epley residence at midnight, lircd but very content. It so happened that members of Branch No. 50 were also ai the same place that evening, so it made it nice to see and talk with sister members. We want to congratulate Mayor Frank Spremulli who recently celebrated his 65th birthday, also the 25th anniversary of his being Mayor of North Randall, Ohio. His wife, Rose and dauglner, Mary Sue are members of our branch. We would all like to send our get well wishes to Bernadette Blatnik and pray that she is soon feeling much better. Member Margarita Franchini, husband Larry and their two sons recently flew down to the Bahamas for a week’s stay, and all enjoyed themselves immensely. We wish to send our deepest sympathy to member Helen Ripoll who recently lost her beloved son who was only thirty-three years of age. He passed away while living on St. Thomas in the Virgin Islands. You can be sure dear Helen that we all join you in prayer for him. Remember, ladies, I hat we are continually saving cancelled stamps for the Kidney Dialysis Foundation as well as coupons from newspapers, magazines etc., as right now we only have one place to donate cat and dog coupons but are holding any that come in and aren’t past their due date should we hear of a worthy place to give same. A very Merry Christmas to everyone in our beloved lodge, and the best of health not only for the coming new year but always. God bless one and all. MILDRED D. ROBERTS, Reporter NO. 81, KEEWATIN, MN Now that our Minnesota Day and State Convention is over, the members can relax and be happy that the convention was a success. On Wednesday, Oct. 26th, we met at Father Frederick Hall with our president, Josephine Kapla, presiding. The main item of business was taking care of the expenses and other financial matters of the convention. Plans were discussed for our Christinas dinner which will be held on Dec. 9th. Election of officers was held and the following were chosen: President, Josephine Kapla; Vice-President, Mary Marolt; Treasurer, Ann Dickovich; Secretary, Blanche Laurieh; Auditors: Anne Miehelich, Sophie Michelich and Mary Miehelich. Our outgoing Vice-President, Molly Boben, is to be commended for the many years of service she gave as an officer. Hostesses for the evening were Clem Bolfand Molly Boben. Respectfully submitted, MARY MICHELICH, Reporter NO. 92, GUNNISON, CO October meeting was on the 18th at the home of Betty Stefanic. I want to say thank you to Frances Somrok for taking notes for me. My husband and I went to Louisiana to visit our daughters and gel acquainted with our new grandson. The Hunters Bake Sale held on the 13th was a big success. Fran Austin and Frances Somrok reported on the volunteer workshop held at Western State College. Names were selected for the Christmas parly exchange. We all send our sympathy to Pauline Stajduhar on the death of her sister, Josephine. Also, wishes for a speedy recovery from her accident. Mystery box was won by Betty. Refreshments and Canasta was enjoyed by all. High winners were Margaret Malenšek and Rita; Low, Linda Mikus and Beth Weaver. Candied applies were passed around by the hostess. Thank you. Nov. 1st meeting ai the home of Frances Guerreri was eo-hosted by Rose. We met at 6 p.m. for dinner. Frances and Rose are known for their delicious cooking and as before, we all had our fill of all the good food. Thanks, ladies, it was ISHING YOU ALL THE SPECIAL JOY OF THIS HOLY SEASON MARY & WALTER MULLER National President Riverdale, Illinois /// Blessed Christmas Holidays! Happy New Year! Thank you for your gifts of love and kindness! Anna L. Hodnik Nat ’I Youth Director 4 ,l[ ll\ NO. 20 i 1 \ V JOLIET, iV ILLINOIS -— ^/jr Olga & Ed Ancel National Secretary Joliet, Illinois SLOVENIAN MINERS AND LABORERS MEMORIAL, CHISHOLM, MINNESOTA I wish to contribute the following donation to the Slovenian Miners and Laborers Memorial to be erected at the Iron Range Interpretative Center in Chisholm, Minnesota. Name: Address: Enclosed is my donation: City, State, Zipcode: (Names of individual donors of $100 or more will be placed on a special bronze plaque at the Memorial). MAIL TO: SLOVENIAN WOMEN’S UNION HOME OFFICE, 431 NO. CHICAGO ST., JOLIET, ILLINOIS 60432. enjoyed by all, I’m sure. After we ate, the meeting was opened with a prayer. 14 members were present. Our speaker for the evening was Virginia Jones who talked to us about the volunteer work at the Hospital. We are very lucky to have such a nice hospital for the size of our town. Anyone interested in this should attend a meeting at the Elks Lodge on the 14th. Dec. 3rd is the date for our Christmas party. Frances will check with the Rover Inn. Bring your food goods for the Christmas baskets and dessert for the evening. Election of officers was held and Frieda was re-elected president, Bunnie is vice-president, Linda, secretary-treasurer, Betty our caller. She is so good about contacting everyone. Personal representatives to other organizations arc Fran Austin and Frances Somrok. Auditors are Kathy Adamich and Rita Johnson and Yours Truly is again the reporter. Now isn’t that nice? Mystery Box was donated by Betty and won by Frieda. High winners were Frieda and Betty and Low, Margaret Depew and Fern. Meeting closed with prayer by all. Afterward we sat to visit. A very Happy Christmas wish to all. REPORTER,FERN NO. 93, BROOKLYN, NY On Oct. 15, 1983 we had our first meeting after a very hot summer. It was a beautiful day but due to illness among our members only six of us were together. Caroline is recovering, Mitzi Majestic’s husband is very ill and JoAnne, we miss you always. Anna Samuelson is in Florida, hello from all of us. Arc you coming back soon? Before parting, we arranged to meet at our Slovenian Church, St. Cyril’s on the 23rd for a 10 o’clock Mass being held for all deceased members of Br. 93 (my mother Agnes Stravitch among them). We did have a nice group with some husbands, too. After Mass we had coffee and cake in the newly renovated basement with our new pastor. Father Robert. Next meeting was to be Nov. 19th. AGNES ALBRO NO. 95, SO. CHICAGO, IL At our October meeting, our members were called upon to analyze the accomplishments that our branch has made. It was our chance to be profound and compare this coming year with last season. We did come up with some surprising comments from our members; the most significant comment was that those who do not serve as hostesses or do not donate some sort of goodies, should donate $5 toward the treasury. 1 think that that was one of the most favorable suggestions made. In the future those who do not donate the goodies, will from here on in, donate $5 toward the treasury. As you all know we are all getting older, but we still show a surprising amount of spark in all of us, so there is some glimmer of hope for all of us. Once again our members made a wise choice by selecting Sylvia Vukodinovich as our Woman Of The Year! Our heartiest congratulations to you, Sylvia! Virginia Kwiatkowski and Helen Price, our nominating committee, were to present the slate of new officers at our November meeting. A warm welcome was extended to Olga Schlauch and Rose Mehan as our guests. Cash donated by Fran Seabloom, $2. The following October Birthday gals donated the goodies: Evelyn Driscoll, Mary (Matt) Perkovich, Charlotte Fryza and yours truly. Hostesses were Dolores Hennelly, Mary (Matt) Perkovich, Mary (Bob) Perkovich and Charlotte Fryza. For our program wc had Naomi Gambo, who spoke on “Money Management” and showed slides on planning for the future. There was a question and answer period following. Kindly remember in your prayers: Lucille Svalina and Marge Doherty who have been ailing; to all of our members who are ailing, a speedy recovery to all of you! Our warmest congratulations to Charlotte Fryza who became a proud grandmother. The little tyke is named John Charles Pesich, who was born on June 13th 1983. Also our good wishes to brother, Mark Pesich, who will have a playmate in the near future. We are also thrilled by the news of the arrival of a baby girl, Megan McCue, who was born on April 1st 1983. We are delighted by the news, and our congratulations to Ann Brkljacieh who is the proud great grand mother. The members of our branch who have traveled to Joliet for our State Convention where impressed in the manner in which it was conducted, the Mass, the sermon delivered by Rev. David Stalzer, the choir, the Meeting, the Dinner, the Entertainment. It was thought-provoking, too. We thank br. 20 for their graciousness, their friendliness of manner which has given so much charm to every moment of their presence with us. 1 would also like to thank Dolores Hennelly for transporting our members; 1 consider having Dolores a matter of great good fortune; she is a loyal and dedicated member. In conclusion, as we near the most joyous season of the year, 1 offer you all my sincerest wishes for a most enjoyable holiday. May the years that lie ahead bring to all of you and your loved ones a deep satisfaction and happiness. A Merry Christmas to you and to those near and dear to you. Also our best wishes that 1984 may signal another point in the continual growth of our branch, and a special expression of appreciation to all of you who have shouldered the burden of our branch. I thank you. MILDRED JAMES NO. 105, DETROIT. Ml Our meeting on Oct. 22nd was a very good one. It was most gratifying to see each other again. I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone for their Prayers and Cards during my convalescence. It really helped me so very much. Our Christmas luncheon will be on the 10th of December. As soon as we know the place, you will be notified. Our next meeting was planned at the home of Patricia Adamic in November. May all our members be blessed with good health, especially Mary Jamsek. Wc missed you, Ann and Sophia, also! ANN POBANZ EDWARD F. KOMPARE FUNERAL HOME 9858 So. Commercial Ave., Chicago, IL 60617 Phones 768-1111/8800 ANA GABER: ŠT. 2, Chicago, IL žtlfcliEMislki gostilničar Vem, zaničujete me. Saj me že vsi zaničujejo. Toda dajte, pustite mi, da vam razložim, zakaj sem tako ravnal. Tisti dan je bila moja hiša oblegana. Bilo je ljudsko štetje. Ali veste, kaj se to pravi? Vsak je moral v rodno mesto svojih prednikov. Betlehem pač ni bil kako neznatno mestece v Palestini. Seveda, za vašimi ogromnimi naselji Betlehema le ne morem primerjati. Toda vedite, da takrat ni bilo še turizma, avtomobilov. Ni bilo hotelov, kjer bi si mogel človek po telefonu rezervirati sobo. Kdor je prišel prvi, je dobil najboljšo sobo. Jasno, če je imel s čim plačati. Vidite, tudi takrat smo bili v poslovnih stvareh prebrisani. V tem nismo nič zaostajali za vami. Iz Betlehema so izvirale mnoge imenitne družine. Iz Betlehema, mesta kralja Davida. Bogati Jeroboam je že prej poslal služabnika, da bi najel sobe za ves njegov rod. Bil sem presrečen, ko sem, prejel tega sla. Le predstavljajte si, kako imenitna reklama za moje gostišče. Prišel je še Abija iz Tira. Tu je bil Izmael, sin bogatega Natanaela. Pri meni se je ustavil še Petah, o katerem šušljajo, daje pri Herodu kuhan in pečen. In spodaj na dvorišču... Še prešteti nisem, mogel ljudi, ki so si tam spodaj postavili šotore. S kamelami in osli so prišle cele družine. Med njimi so bili tudi ubogi. To vam je bil pravi semenj. Mnogi se že leta in leta niso videli. Vedeti morate, da so potomci enega in istega rodu. Razkropljeni so po različnih krajih Palestine in izven nje. Za te nenavadne ljudi se nisem dosti zmenil. Saj poznate to rajo: če jim ponudiš prst, zgrabijo za roko. Če hočeš biti z njimi prijazen, se jih ne otreseš več. Hlapcem sem naročil, naj se le potrudijo, da noben prostor ne bi ostal neizrabljen. kšaSlovenska Dediščina] O, vse bo priteklo nazaj v blagajno, kar sem potrošil. Pa še dvakrat in trikrat več. V zgornjih prostorih moje hiše so moji odlični gostje zabavljali čez Rimljane. “Prekleti neobrezanci,” je vpil Abija. “Abrahamove sinove strašiljo na domačih tleh.” — Človek bi počil od smeha! Abrahamove sinove. Ha, to govori Abija, ki mu je bila Mojzesova postava deveta briga. “Vsem poganom bi bilo treba zaviti vrat,” se je pridušal Jeroboam in stiskal pesti, v kotičkih usten pa se mu je nabral zlovešč nasmeh. “Tak dajte no mir,” sem jih rotil. Rimljani pač ne bi slepomišeli, če bi slišali takšno govorjenje. V redu, saj sem tudi jaz proti tem neobrezancem, toda hiša je hiša in bal sem se zanjo. Vem, da me dobro razumete, saj imate tudi vi svoje stvari, ki jih ne bi dali za nobeno ceno. Izmael mi je v roko stisnil zlatnik, da bi me pomiril. Da, da, pravi zlatnik. Ne kak smrdljiv drobiž. “Pomiri se, stari,” je dejal. Gostje pri mizi so staknili glave skupaj. Neko tajno zaroto so sklepali ali kaj jaz vem. Meni je bilo zdaj vseeno, kaj počno, da je le bil v moji roki' zlatnik. Tedaj me je žena pocukala za rokav in me potegnila vstran. “Ti, spodaj sta dva mlada človeka in prosita, če bi smela priti gor.” “Naj prideta,” sem odvrnil ravnodušno. “Toda tam spodaj ni več prostora in poleg tega...” žena je prenehala. “Kaj poleg tega?” “Žena pričakuje otroka. Brezpogojno potrebuje sobo. Vsak čas se lahko zgodi.” “Kaj.” Od jeze sem kar zadržal dih. “Mar je naša hiša porodnišnica? Meniš, da bom vrgel na cesto bogatega Jeroboama.” V moji roki je topel in svetal počival zlatnik. “Žena, ali naj rečem: Jeroboam, dajte storite uslugo. Tu je neka bodoča mati. Ha, ha! Ta je pa lepa. Ta bi bila lepa.” In udaril sem se po stegnih. “Duhovita si.” Ko sem pa videl njen resni obraz, sem rekel: “Dragica, saj sama vidiš, da je popolnoma nemogoče.” “Lahko bi jima prepustila najino sobo, saj tako vso noč ne bova spala, ne bova zatisnila oči zaradi tega hrupa,” je zopet poskušala. “Tako najino sobo, najino sobo... “sem se ji pačil; Najino sobo naj bi dala takim smetem, ki so od bogvekje. “Videti sta revna. Žena je še zelo mlada.” Priznam, kar sem rekel potem, ni bilo prav. Toda, vprašam vas: ali vam še nikoli niso popustili živci? Kaj bi pa bilo, če bi bili še mi poslovni ljudje občutljivi. Kajne, razumete me. V tej stvari se svet še ni nič spremenil. Moja žena se je branila pred mojim dvoumnim posmehovanjem. Branila je mladi par, kakor da bi ta dva človeka že dolgo poznala. To me je spet spravilo v bes. "Odkod pa veš, da imamo opravka s poštenima človekoma?” Odgovorila je: “Moj materinski čut mi tako pove.” “Ti in tvoji čuti,” sem se moral smejati in se od smeha držal za trebuh. “Sama dejstva nekaj pomenijo. Dejstva, žena, ali si razumela.” V moji roki je topel in svetel počival zlatnik. Od sosednje mize je zaklical Abija: “Vina.” “Tak pojdi že no,” sem dejal ženi. Čemu neki me zadržuješ s temi umazanimi revnimi cunjami?” Še ni zganila svojih nog, zato sem ji dejal v šali: “Zaradi mene ju lahko pošlješ v hlev na našem pašniku.” To sem mislil predvsem kot posrečeno šalo. Nekaj pa tudi zares. Bil sem kar vesel, da sem tako hitro našel odlično rešitev. “Seveda, v hlev.” In šel sem proč, da bi svoje odlične goste postregel z vinom. Moj Bog, zakaj vse mora človek skrbeti! Morate priznati, da ste v tem oziru vi danes na boljšem. Ko bi prišel pred vrata kak tak par, bi ga poslali naravnost na socialno in bi bila stvar rešena. Vsekakor, ko bi vedel... Nič, tako je bilo in kaj morem zato? Še sanjalo se mi ni, kdo sta bila ta dva mlada človeka. Mesijeva mati se ni popolnoma nič razlikovala od vseh nosečih žena. Videl sem jo. Bila je zelo ljubko bitje, kot sem videl skozi okno na dvorišče. Moja žena jo je prav takrat previdno vodila za roko proti izhodu. Mlada žena je biia nekoliko bledikasta in izčrpana od dolge poti, mož pa je bil krepak. Nič izrednega, prav nič. “Ubogi pari." sem dejal, ko sem ju videl. “Ubogi pari,” da, tako sem dejal. Stari Jeroboam je to slišal. “Kaj praviš?” Bil je že nekoliko nasekan. “Prav imaš, stari, prav imaš, da prav imaš. Mi smo uboge pare. Toda nekoč bo spet drugače. Takrat bomo zapodili te smrdljive rimske pse, hk, iz templja in svetega mesta. Saj imamo, hk, svojega Mesija. Saj ga imamo, hk, nazadnje svojega judovskega kralja.” Nenadoma se mi je začel gnusiti njegov rejeni mastni obraz. In zlatnik v moji roki me je pekel kot ogenj. Po Družini. p. AtanazijLovrenčič, O.F.M.: Božič - vir veselja in upanja OTROK in BOŽIČNA POTICA Že v peči gori, že ogenj prasketa, že veselo švigajo iskre sem in tja. V lončenem modelu /e vzahaja potica, pričakovanje se v otroških očeh lesketa. Mnogo je dobrih na svetu potic, a tako se otroku dozdeva, daje od vseh najboljša božična — iz bele moke in orehovega nadeva. Takrat je razvaljeno testo tako dolgo, da kar čez rob hrastove mize visi, takrat so smetana, med in orehi tako sladki, da po celi hiši vabljivo diši. Na Božič stoji praznično na mizi potica rumena, okrogla kot venec, lepo zapečena, in kako je otrok priden in ubogljiv saj ve, da bo velik kos božične potice dobil. Milena Merlak Ob božičnih dnevih naše misli gredo nazaj v mladostna leta, kako smo praznovali te svete dneve, kako smo se zbirali okoli mize, ko smo postavljali božične drevo; kako smo hiteli k polnočnici in tam v cerkvi pozabili vse, ko so naše oči zrle na ubogo dete Jezusa v jaslicah, naša ušesa pa poslušala pesem: “Sveta noč, blažena noč”! Od tistega časa pa do danes se je veliko stvari spremenilo; a dejstvo, ki nam je prinašalo toliko veselja ob božiču, je še vedno aktualno, namreč, Jezus je bil rojen tudi zame. S tem da smo bili krščeni in poučeni o katoliški veri, nam je bilo razodetih nekaj skrivnosti, namreč, da je Bog poslal svojega Sina, da nas reši, in da smo preko njegove milosti zmožni postati deležni večnega življenja. In prav v tem je vzrok našega veselja; če je naše božično veselje le v zunanjem praznovanju, potem bo trajalo le par dni, in kmalo razočarani se bomo morali vrniti na svoje delo. A če je vzrok našega veselja v dejstvu, da je Kristus prišel prav za nas, da nam da večno življenje, potem bo to veselje postalo za nas nekaj vsakdanjega, potem bo to veselje postalo naša moč, ki nas bo podpirala v težkih dnevih. Dejstvo, da je Sin božji prevzel človeško naravo, da bi tako delil naše veselje in trpljenje, nam prinaša ne samo veselje ampak tudi zaupanje. Krustus je postal nebogljeno dete, da nam tako pokaže, da se ravno v nemoči spopolnjuje božja moč. Jezus je postal človek, da bi nam bil brat v rojstvu, v delu, v molitvi, v trpljenju, in v smrti pa naše vstajenje. Da, zares Sveta noč, Blažena noč, ki nam je dala takega Odrešenika. Zato duša krščanska raduj se in prepevaj v svetem veselju: Tvoj Zveličar se danes rodi! KAJ SE VAM ZDI PASTIRCI VI« AL' STE KAJ SLISALI' /e/ct ST. 3, PUEBLO, CO Bližajo se božični prazniki in naše misli se leto za letom vračajo k svojcem, živim in pokojnim. Tako naj božični duh nas okrepi ter pokrije naše napake preteklega leta. Letošnje leto je bilo delavno leto za številne članice, za uspeh in napredek naše Slovenske ženske zveze. Naši Zvezi kličemo: Bog te čuvaj in vodi v dobrem delu še mnogo let in v sodelovanju s sedanjimi voditeljicami. Tem je mogoče, da nagovorijo one Slovenke, ki še niso članice, naj pristopijo. Bog z vami! Vsak božični dar bo dobrodošel v šolninski sklad. Brezposelnost se še vedno nadaljuje. Grozne napake se nadaljujejo v naši deželi. Še otroci niso več varni doma ali pred svojo hišo. Neznanec je ugrabil dva otroka, se z njima zaprl v garažo ter opravil svojo razuzdanost. Zgodi se tudi, da napadejo starejše v njihovem domu, čeprav so zaklenjeni. Naša zvesta in dobrosrčna Milka Heningsman se je smehljala, ko je dobila prijazen obisk iz Jolieta, III. Obiskal jo je vnuk od Mr. in Mrs. Rudi Pucel. Yes, zelo lepo snidenje je bilo tudi za mojo malenkost, ker sta me obiskala. Hvala za okusen lunch in večerjo, kar smo zaužili skupaj s Puclevim. Odlična dvojica sta Rudi in Milie. Članici Josephine Cutsinger želimo okrevanje po operaciji, da ozdravi. Josephine je organistinja naše slovenske cerkve. V juliju je umrla članica Catherine Zunick. Sožalje preostalim. Umrl je poznani Rudy Koshak. Ta družina je zelo prizadeta zaradi smrti. Že peti član družine je umrl za srčnim napadom. Sestra pokojnega Christine Bradish se je v času smrti nahajala s hčerko na obisku v Jugoslaviji. Christine je naša članica in vse obžalujemo smrt njenega brata. Septembra meseca smo obhajali poročno slavje moje vnukinje Cherly Pachak s Mr. Charles Brooks. Cherly je instructor of music pri university. Njen soprog je ugledni očesni zdravnik. Vsi njima želimo božjega blagoslova. Poroka se je vršila v slovenski cerkvi Marije Pomagaj. (Slika je v angleškem delu.) Ljubeznivi pismeni poklon ge. Ani Gaber z izrazom hvaležnosti za priznanje mojih skromnih dopisov v naši Zarji. Vse-eno me veseli, da lahko poročam podružnične novice. Nisem imela priložnosti, da bi obiskovala šole in sem končala samo tri razrede ljudske šole. Članice naše podružnice zelo cenijo slovenske poučne članke in povesti. Naša septemberska seja je bila zanimivo podana. Slišale smo poročilo z naše narodne konvencije v Minnesoti, katerega so članice zadovoljno sprejele. Vabljene ste vse članice na decembersko sejo. Dobrodošla so obojna darila: za mladino in medsebojna. Po seji bo zabava s prigrizkom in izmenjava daril po $3.00 vrednosti. Upam, da bo to eden izmed najlepših praznovanj Božča, kar smo jih dosedaj imele. Naj bodo božični prazniki blagoslov za vas in vaše drage. Omeniti še moram smrti naših prijateljev. Po kratki bolezni je umrl poznani Jack Gornik, trgovec pohištva. Bil je zelo znana oseba v naši naselbini. Zelo je cenil pogovor v slovenskem jeziku, pravtako slovensko petje. Sam je bil dober pevec. Obžalujemo naglo smrt sorodnika moža moje nečakinje Mary. Mr. Jack Datz je tudi umrl zaradi srčnega napada.Vsi bomo občutili samoto za njim posebno žena Mary, ki je tudi rahlega zdravja. Bog vsem daj mirni počitek v hladni zemlji. d o r m Zelo občudujem na zadnji strani Zarje opis mlade članice Terese Mlakar; kako ljubeznivo in polno spoštovanja opisuje vrline in ljubezen svojega Granpa -starega očeta. Vse pohvale je vreden opis od Kathy Nuško, ko obuja spomina na strica g. Ludvika Leskovarja. Kako je bilo veselo in podučljivo v njegovi družbi. Teresa in Kathy, lepo ste se odzvali v vajinih dopisih. Tudi vama: Happy “Božič.” ANNA PACHAK ŠT. 13, SAN FRANCISCO, CA K moji slovenski pesmi lahko dodate še ta članek od pisatelja Meška. Koliko lepote je v knjigah naših slovenskih pisateljev in pesnikov. Vsak posebej je kot zvezda na nebu, vsa blesteča je kot biser. Tak biser je pisatelj Ksaver Meško - eden izmed mnogih - z mehko skoro žensko dušo. Navajam tu njegov članek, pisan s pesniško prozo o domovini. Franc Ksaver Meško, slovenski pisatelj (1874-1984) je bil doma iz Ključarovcev pri Sv. Tomažu v Slovenskih goricah in je zapisal: "Dežela, čudovita kakor iz lepih sanj, tista moja domovina tam doli, naše Slovenske gorice; dežela, polna naravnih lepot, ne sicer divjih, ne s svojo veličastnostjo mamečih kakor visoke gore, ne, preprostih in idiličnih skoraj. A je prav zaradi tega s to mehkejšo poezijo ožarjena in tem prisrčneje govori srcem... Dežela polna petja, a tudi za človeška srca in človeško življenje dovolj bogata z jokom: polna dela in potu, a tudi polna otroške lahkomiselnosti in objestne razposajenosti.... Dela in muči se tam naš človek, kakor bi nameraval večno živeti. Koliko poezije je v zemlji sami, v tistih, po gričih položenih vinogradih, v tistih sanjavih gozdovih, v tistih tihih dolinah.... Iz mladosti: V dobi cvetja se rodila si v srcu Tvojem še pomlad živi, nasmeh Tvoj radostni je ves začaran kot ptičic spev Ti pesmi iz srca done, ko spet pomlad čez gaje gre tudi mene kdaj spominjaj se, ko kličem Ti Bog živi Tel POLDICA PODGORNIK ŠT. 17, WEST ALLIS, Wl Podrobnosti o proslavi na konvenciji 25. septembra so že bile poročane v angleškem delu. Res smo imele lep dan in vse je izvrstno poteklo. Seja je bila dobro obiskana ter zelo zanimiva. Upamo, da bo rodila dober sad. Vsem se presrčno zahvalim, katere ste delale mnogo za to prireditev. V imenu članstva št. 17 pa še odboru prav posebno za trud ter žrtvovanje. Banket je bil sjajen, žrebanje ob tem času zelo uspešno, Hvala vsem, ki ste tako marljivo delale v dvorani. Še posebna zahvala tistim, ki ste prinesle toliko dobrega peciva. Pokazale ste, da vam je Zveza pri srcu. Bog vam plačaj! Pridite na glavno sejo 18. decembra. Saj bomo imele kakor ponavadi izmenjavo daril ter po seji dober prigrizek. Trkamo zopet na vaša dobra srca za poklonitev peciva itd. Vesele blagoslovljene božične praznike in bolnim zdravja želim vsem članicam Zveze. Tudi srečno in zdravo novo leto 1984. MARY MURN ŠT. 25, CLEVELAND, OH Beseda dela dolg. Mnogim sem obljubila na konvenciji, da se bom skorajžila in napisala sem in tja kak članek v slovenščini za Zarjo. Prva stvar, ki je za nas najbolj važna je to, da si skušamo pridobiti čim več novih članic. SŽZ mora rasti in cveteti kakor slovenski nagelj, ki se razlije kakor slap po oknih mnogih slovenskih hiš tudi tu v naši novi domovini Ameriki. Korajža velja! Še nekaj novic od naše podružnice št. 25. Sejo imamo vsaki drugi torek v mesecu ob pol dveh popoldne. Čeprav so seje popoldne, kar precaj napolnimo “social room” pri sv. Vida šoli. Zadnje čase so seje zanimive. Zakaj boste vprašali? Imamo mlado predsednico Cecelijo Kermavner polna življenja in idej za našo podružinco in SŽZ. Človek se kar veseli seje, ker nas ponavadi vedno preseneti s čim novim. Naše članice katere obiskujejo seje so tudi nekaj izvanrednega. Vedno z veseljem pomagajo pri vsaki stvari z vsemi svojimi močmi. Hvala vam vsem. Enkrat se bomo slikali, da boste videli naše vrle “dekleta”. Nekaj naših članic je bilo zadnje mesece v bolnicah -Euclid General in St. Vincent Charity Hospital. Jennie Feme, Jennie Laurich, Emilee Jenko, Josephine Alich, Vicky Kmet. Dorothy Kirk že tudi dobro “maršira” po drugi operaciji na kolenih. Bog Vam daj zdravja! Še to bi rada pripomnila. Kje so pobrali ime “charity”? To je verjetn ostalo še od tedaj, ko sta Jezus in Peter hodila po svetu. Sedaj je “charity” samo še čisto navadna beseda. Zadnji mesec smo tudi izgubile dobro članico go. Marijo Tuljak. Bog ji daj večni mir in pokoj. Družini pa izrekamo globoko sožalje. Ge. Evi Stranski in družini želimo prijetno bivanje v novi hiši. Ga. Josephine Stanich pa se je preselila iz Norwood Rd. na 55 in Superior v St. Andrew’s Towers. Tam je bolj brez skrbi. Nič ji ni treba skrbeti t kdo bo travo ^ pokosil, sneg odmetal ali rožice zalil. Dobro se imejte. December 13. si očrtajte z rudečo in zeleno barvo, da ne boste pozabile, da imamo “Christmas Party”. Ne, ne bomo začele zjutraj ampak ob pol dveh popoldne. Vsaka bo posegla malo v žep in prispevala $3.00, da bomo lahko kupile meso. Jennie Strumbel je pa ponudila svoj “know how” da bo naredila zastonj njen “special barbecue pork”. Se Vam že cedijo sline? Tudi vsaka izmed nas bo prinesla kake dobrote iz naših kuhinj. Pridite tudi ve sosestre, ki ste članice, a se ne udejstvujete sej in ne bo Vam žal in tudi ven Vas ne bomo zagnale. Zahvala gre tudi Josephine Mohorčič, ki je privedla svojo sestro Jennie Strumble, da je postala naša članica. Za zahvalni dan in božic pa zbiramo “canned goods” za manj srečne v naši fari. Podarimo jih župnišču in potem jih oni porazdelijo. Na Ohio-Michigan konvenciji smo obdržale isti odbor za našo drago Ann Terček na čelu. Čestitamo vsem in želimo mnogo uspeha v naslednjih štirih letih. Naša članica Blanka Tonkli že 20 let razveseljuje množice ljudi s svojim lepim glasom, s svojim možem Marjanom ob strani Duke Maršičevemu orkestru - Veseli Slovenci. Čestitamo in želimo se nadaljnjih 20 let vsem veselega petja in glasbe. Pišite in sporočite mi novice, ker če nevem - nemorem napisati. Božič je pred vrati zato Vam vsem želim: Naj božje Detece rosi nad Vas vse Svojo sveto milost in božji blagoslov to sveto božično noč. CIRILA KERMAVNER ŠT. 41, CLEVELAND, OH Vse čestitke in zahvala Mrs. Charles Trček in njenim odbornicam za tako lepo in zadovoljno pripravo za prireditev Ohio-Michigan državne konvencije. Naš odsek, Št. 41, je imel 7 članov, ki so pomagale k tem slavju. Justine Girod, podpredsednica naše številke, je bila odsotna ker je bila na obisku svoje hčerke in družine. Naša državna predsednica Ančka je prosila vse poročevalke Zarji, ako jim je mogoče, da bi nekaj pisale v slovenščini. Rade čitajo naše starejše članice in tiste, ki ob-vladijo naš materinski jezik. Urednica Zarje prosi za sodelovanje v tem in tudi za oglase ali darove tiskarskemu skladu. Vse se je podražilo in najmanjši dar je dobrodošel. Za prigrizek smo imele samo-postrezbena jedila in vsaka je malo darovala. Listke za nagrade so bili prodani in dobiček je bil za skupni sklad Clevelandskih podružnic. Zelo rade bi pridobile več novih članic za našo podružnico, posebno mlade Slovenke, ker udeležba na sejah je zelo mala. Seje se vršijo vsaki tretji torek v mesecu. 15. novembra smo imeli božičnico. Vesele božične praznike vsem. Srčni pozdrav. AMELIA OSWALD, Preds. ŠT. 68, FAIRPORT HRB., OH Kakor se pomladi veselimo in poletja, je jesen tudi po svoje lepa. Ko smo vse pospravili iz vrtov zelenjavo in sadje, vložili v steklenice in zmrzovalnike nam bo to prav prišlo v zimskem času, ker draginja raste z dneva v dan. Klub slabemu vremenu je vsega dovolj zrastlo; še trta nam je dobro obrodila, z možem sva okoli 100 steklenic grozdnega soka natočila. Vreme je postalo hladnejše, noči se daljšajo, dnevi se krajšajo. Ohajski zakon pravi, da prihodnjo nedeljo nam bodo uro nazaj pomaknili za eno uro. No, saj to nas nič ne moti, posebno nas upokojence, zakon je, in tako mora biti. Naša zadnja seja se je vršila 19. okrobra, na tretjo sredo v mesecu ob 6.30 v Slov. klubu v Fairportu kot običajno. Udeleženk je bilo kar zadovoljivo število. Predsednica Rosi Bradač je odprla sejo, odmolile Oče-naš in tudi za naše pokojne članice. Tajnica Fani UIle je prečitala zapisnik od zadnje seje, prav tako zapisnikarica Malči Južna. Nato se je razmotrivalo, kje in kako za Božični party, tajnica predlaga Vough restavrant (Henk Zalar). Z zadovljstvom je bilo enoglasno potrjeno. Namesto, da bi igrale “B”, so se odločile, da vsaka nekaj daruje za v blagajno. Končna zabava pa je še potekala z igranjem kart. Z odličnim prigriskom pa jih je postregla Josi UIle. Kerživimo v časih, da noči niso varne, sploh za ženske se voziti okoli, posebno ene same ne, in tudi vsak dan beremo v časopisih, koliko automobilov je SVETA NOC Skrivnosti polna Sveta noč; nebeško Dete si rodila, poslala si z neba nam pomoč, - upanjem svet napolnila. Dete boy e, kaj boš našlo tu na svetu za svoj god? Narod narodu kljubuje, je sovraštvo vse povsod. Pred božje Dete pokleknimo, odkrijmo vse naše mu želje. Prav iz srca ga prosimo, naj pošlje mir in odrešenje. Naj na zemljo milost Uje, mir prinese na ta svet. Naj ljubezni sonce sije, da bo grešni svet otet. MARY MURN IIIIII m m pokradenih. Dobim pa vse informacije od naših članic. Saj vse veste, kakšne grozne stvari se dogajajo danes na tem božjem svetu, upam, da to mi ne boste zamerile, ako se sej ne udeležujem. Pred kratkim časom, tukaj iz okolice je bila zverinsko umorjena 70 let stara žena in nobenega sledu za morilcem. In drugi slučaj. Mož 89 let je v hiši prešteval denar, menda 12 tisoč (12,000) in človek je prišel kar naravnost v hišo in vzel denar in mirno odšel z denarjem. Saj to se je menda razpaslo po celem svetu. Zato se v današnjih časih ni varno nikjer prenočiti, in več dni doma ne zapustiti. Življenje danes je res težko, kadar eden od zakoncev se poslovi in drugi ostane osamljen v hiši. Pa sem ravnokar čitala, da je v United States v letu 1950 bilo ljudi starih 100 let in več 2.300, in to leto 1983 pa 32 tisoč in od teh je tri četrtine žensk.Tako se je število teh stoletnikov povečalo od leta 1950. do letos za 29 tisoč in sedemsto. Nas vseh so želje, da bi bilo kaj več dopisov v slovenščini, vse rade beremo, napisati je pa kar težko si vzeti čas. Nele z branjem, tudi z pisanjem se bistrijo naši možgani. Če pa kakšna kritika od kod prileti, pa nič zato, tudi tisti ni brez nje, pa pravijo, da kritika spopolnjuje. Naše častitke vsem, ki imate rojstne dneve v oktobru, novembru in decembru, Bog Vas živi še mnogo srečnih in zdravih let. Ko pa boste te vrstice brale, se boste pa že pripravljale za božične praznike, ter Vam želim obilo sreče in božjega blagoslova za Božič in Novo leto 1984, posebno pa miru v Vaših srcih. Poročevalka, JULKA KLAMMER Dec. 13.1949 na moj rojstni dan Že sem kafe skuhala in kuhno poribala vsejla se k mizici Kafe sipla dvej šolici. Zdaj grem pa še v drugi room vzamem map in brum Brišem, mufam vse povsod Pa pogledam tudi v kot. Prišli bodo Prazniki in moji lastnici. Ki so živeli v house tem Zdej živim pa sama v njem. Bode trejba kuhat, pečt Familje jih je narastlo več Bode šunka in potica Ker to je njih veselica. Bode pakeč tu in tam Zvezen iz lepim ribinam Dobila ga bodem jest vroke Ker na njem je moje ime. Celia Hobneck Oglesby, Illinois Vesele božične praznike in srečno novo leto 1984 Vsem članicam naše zveze in v nepozabni spomin mojih pokojnih! Anna Pachak Pueblo, Colorado FORTUNA FUNERAL HOME 5316 Fleet Ave Cleveland, Ohio ZAPISNIK DRŽAVNE KONVENCIJE ZA OHIO-MICHIGAN Na lepi sončni dan 30. oktobra 1983, ob pol enajsti uri, so se zbrale članice S.Ž.Z. v cerkvi Marije Vnebovzete na Holmes Ave. in se udeležile sv. maše, ki je bila darovana v spomin pokojne glavne tajnice in ustanoviteljice št. 50, Albine Novak. Procesijo so vodile odbornice št. 10 z novo zastavo. Za njimi so korakale mlade “twirlettes”, potem dekleta Marie Prisland Kadets, nakar so sledile članice in delegatinje podružnic. Orgije so zazvenele in slovenske pesmi so odmevale. Župnik Victor Tomc je imel lepo pridigo in blagoslovil novo zastavo.Po maši jeskupina odšla v šolsko dvorano na prigrizek in kavo. Državna predsednica Ann Terček, je sejo odprla ob 12:45 p.m. z molitvijo. Prižgane svečke na odru so gorele v spomin Marie Prisland, Albine Novak, Sophie Magajne in Frances Sietz, naše pokojne dolgo-letne odbornice. Prosile smo za izboljšanje zdravja bivše glavne predsednice Mary Bostian. Predsednica je predstavila odbor: glavno podpredsednico Cirilo Kermavner, nadzornico Ireno Jagodnik in Angela Voytko iz Loraina, zastopnico Albine Uehlein. Ga. Uehlein, ki je direktorica ženskih aktivnosti, je bila bolna in je želimo hitro okrevanje. Zapisnikarica je bila izbrana Marie Beck. Zapisnik lanske konvencije je bil prečitan in odobren brez napak. Blagajničarka Stella Dancull je poročala, da je v blagajni združenih podružnic $338. Danes od prodanih listkov je bil dobiček $158. Pisma s pozdravi smo prejele od urednice Corinne Leskovar, glavne predsednice Mary Muller, bivše glavne predsednice Mary Bostian in tajnice podružnice št. 42, Mary Lou Prhne. Smo pogrešale Corinne, ki je večkrat z nami ob teh prilikah. Poročila podružnic so pokazala, da je vse v redu in so bila sprejeta. S tem je vsaka podružnica nekaj se naučila in pridobila. Predsednica Ann je priporočila da pridobimo več novih članic. Zveza mora naprej in trebaje nadomestiti naše umrle. Čestitke so na vrsti za Albino Uehlein, ki je neumorna delavka za Zvezo in svojo podružnico, katero predseduje, to je št. 40 v Lorain. Podale smo ji razna darila in šopek slovenskih nageljnov. Na žalost smo slišale, da pevski klub DAWN ne bo imel koncerta letos. Nimajo zadosti pevk za Nova zastava podr. št. 10 Odbornice in članice št, 10 v Clevelandu so ponosno nosile svojo novo zastavo v procesiji 30. oktobra v cerkev Marije Vnebovzete. Blagoslovil jo je župnik č. g. Victor Tomc. Zastavo so izdelale članice pod vodstvom tajnice Rosemary Susel in sestre Danielle. Na sliki vidimo krasni motiv rdečih nageljnov. Srček je zvezen v vencu in napisa sta v slovenščini in angleščini. Držijo Mary Polegar, Ann Stefančič, zapisnikarica in Jean Planisek predsednica. zbor. Vabijo k udeležbi. Hvala gre članici Mary Zimmerman od št. 10, ke je posnela slike danes v cerkvi in v dvorani. Še vedno lahko darujete za Frances Sietz Šolninski Sklad. Drugo leto bo eden ali drugi študent sprejel šolnino v svoti $1,000. Sledile so volitve. Članice so nato izrazile, da obdržimo sedanje odbornice. Podružnice so sodelovale pri spominskem programu za vse umrle članice tega leta. Kadetke so ugasnile svečke - eno za vsako pokojno članico, skupno število 34. Seja je bila zaključena ob 3:15 p.m. Z združenjem vseh podružnic želimo lepo objajanje praznikov ter uspeh do prihodnje konvencije. Bog Vas naj ohrani. Vaša zapisnikarica, MARIE BECK MLADA BREDA Povest ________dr. Ivan Pregelj______ II del. 19. Hanca —Nadaljevanje— J »Ah, Hanca, sam Bog te je poslal, sam Bog,« je govorila Marjanica, in njen skrbipolen obraz je bil jasen, ko da se je zgodil velik čudež. Hanca pa je sedla poleg bolnice na posteljo in dejala: »Žejna sem. Hodila sem vso noč!« »Žejna?« je vprašala Marjanica. V naslednjem trenotku se je spomnila, kaj ji je storiti, in je izginila skozi vrata in se čudovito hitro vrnila z mogočno cilarico in jo dala ženi. Ta je nagnila in pila, si obrisala nato ustnice in pripomnila: »Preveč pelina, pa ne de nič! Da le moč da.«. In potegnila je še krepek požirek in nato vrnila steklenico Marjanici in govorila: »S ceste gori sem videla luč, pa sem mislila, morda imajo bolnika, pa sem prišla.« »Sam Bog te je poslal, daj ji no, daj, saj vidiš, da umira, daj ji, kar veš, da jo ozdravi!« je govorila Marjanica. Beračica se je bila sklonila nad bolnico in gledala dolgo. Potem je pritisnila svoje uho nad bolnico in zmajala z glavo. »Ali ni rešitve?« je zatrepetala Marjanica. Beračica je strmela nemo v bledi, lepi obraz Anice in ni za hip premaknila oči z nje. Marjanici pa je pomigala z roko, naj molči. Smrtna tišina je vladala v sobi. Marjanica ni genila. Prepričana je bila, da Hanca reši Anico. Saj še ni bilo slišati, da bi Hanca ne bila koga ozdravila. Čudovit glas je šel o nji daleč naokolu. Slepo so zaupali skrivnostni ženici ljudje. Zdravniki obupajo, Hanca nikoli, so govorili. Kadar je bolnik že sam nad seboj obupal, kadar ni pomagal ne zdravnik ne zdravilo več, tedaj so poiskali Hanco. Ona je znala pomagati vsakomur. Vsakomur, so rekli, vendar ne pomaga, pa tega ni kriva ona. Mnogokrat se je zgodila, da so jo poklicali, in je prišla. Če pa le ni hotelo biti bolje, so poklicali zdravnika. In navadno so tedaj povedali, da je rekla Hanca tako in tako. In tedaj v tisto hišo ni bilo več Hance. Nasprotno pa se ni slišalo, da bi oni ne ozdravel, ki se je takoj, prej ko se je bolezen razpasla, zatekel po pomoč Hance. Tako je šel glas o čudni zdravnici, ki je navadno domovala v razdrapani bajti visoko v planinah. Ni ga bilo skoro tedna, da ni romal ta ali oni tjagori in molil pri sebi: »Daj Bog, da jo najdem doma!« Mnogokrat je mnogi ni našel doma in odšel potrt nazaj. Zadnje upanje, da reši Hanca bolnega, je tedaj zapustilo take, in s trpko kletvijo sta včasih oče ali mož, ki so jima bolehali doma hči ali sestra ali žena ali mati, sedla k vinu, češ, zdaj je vse eno, kdaj se vrnem. Zgodilo se je celo, da je prišel isti človek dvakrat, trikrat po šest, sedem ur daleč in se vrnil brez Hance. Pozneje so se bili zmenili v toliko, da puste Hanci v koči toliko in takih znamenj, da bi prišla, kadar se vrne dmov. Tedaj pa se je zgodilo, da so zadnje čase prihajali vse bolj brez uspeha ljudje. Nihče ni vedel, kam je Hanca izginila. Tajna znamenja — pisanih niso mogli zapuščati, ker Hanca ni hotela znati čitati in pa, ker so bili parkrat orožniki pogledali gori v kočo, in se Hanca ni mogla nadejati od njih nič dobrega —, tajna znamenja so se bila toraj nekaj časa Hanci silno nagromadila. Ljudje pa so zaman čakali. Hance ni bilo od nikoder. Tudi se ni čulo več: tega je ozdravila, temu je zravnala nogo, temu dala nekaj, pa je prenehal kašljati, tej je dala, pa je ni trgalo več. Nasprotno se je zgodilo, da je marsikdo tarnal: Hanca bi pomagala; tudi bolniki sami so tarnali in prosili, naj gredo po Hanco. Hance pa ni bilo. In sedaj po dolgem je sedela nenadoma na Peči, ne da bi se je bil kdo nadejal. . Nekaj podobnega je morala premišljevati Marjanica in v zavesti, da se to vse godi kakor pri čudežih, da je zdaj vse dobro, se je smehljala pred se in samo čakala, da bo segla Hanca v žep in ji dala tega in onega in rekla: »To ji kuhajte, pa to napravite!« Toda Hanca ni segla v žep, katerega morda niti imela ni, niti v svojo običajno torbo, temveč neprenehoma je motrila bolnico. Marjanico je stresla skoro nekake vrste groza in čedalje bolj, ob enem je čutila, da ji je zaspala noga. Hipoma se je tedaj dvignila Hanca. »Zdaj grem pa spat!« je dejala. »Kaj?« se je začudila Marjanica. »Sem ušla iz ječe,« je rekla Hanca, »me je dal zapreti okrajni zdravnik, šleva uboga! Sem hodila vso noč. Sem trudna, pa moram zgodaj naprej!« »Hanca,« je prosila Marjanica, »ali ji nočeš pomagati?« »Saj je dobra!« je odvrnila Hanca. V resnici sicer ni bila Anica dobra, ali videti je res bilo, ko da ponehuje vročina. Hanca pa je že stopila iz sobe. Marjanica je stekla za njo in jo peljala v svojo sobo. Tam je še rekla Marjanici: »Če ne pride kaj vmes, ne bo umrla, ne! Ti pa me zbudi ob štirih. So me že v trgu sledili, ne maram, da bi me prijeli še enkrat.« V naslednjem trenutku je ležala, in Marjanica jo je slišala smrčati. Vrnila se je Marjanica k bolnici in ni mogla priti k sebi. Vse se ji je zdelo tako čudno. Videča, da Anica res pokojno leži in ne blazni več, je verjela docela Hanci. Tembolj pa se je Marjanica čudila, kako da je bila Hanca zaprta. Zakaj naj jo zapro? Sklenila je, da jo povpraša poprej, ko pojde v stran. Ob enem je pomislila, ali bi ne bilo prav, če bi ji povezala kos kruha in steklenico pelinovca v ruto, da bi imela po poti vsaj za »proti mrazu«. Storila je to. Ob štirih pa je zbudila Hanco. Ta je prišla še enkrat k bolnici in dejala: »Ni sile, ta bo še plesala!« Marjanica je spremila Hanco do vrat. Tedaj ji je rekla Hanca: »Nič ne pravi da sem bila tu.« »Zakaj?« je vprašala Marjanica. »Zato,« je rekla trdo Hanca. Marjanica pa je odvrnila: »Pa ne bom, Hanca!« In stisnila ji je sveženj v roke in se pri tem ojunačila: »Glej, Hanca, Bog ti plačaj; zakaj pa so te zaprli?« »Zato, ker so ljudje hudobni,« je dejala ona, »so rekli, da sem zastrupila mlado Sredkovo v Selu, pa me še zraven ni bilo. Tako je, vidiš!« »Kako so mogli reči kaj takega?« je tožila Marjanica. »Sem naročila, naj ji dajo,« je govorila Hanca, »takih jagod skuhati, pa ji skuhajo volčjih. Pa so potem zvrgli na me, in sodnik je verjel. Pa so me zaprli v norišnico, češ, da sem neumna. Jaz, pa neumna.« In glasno se je zasmejala, in celo v temi je bilo videti njene zdrave zobe. Hip pozneje je že bila na cesti doli. Mladi Čarga je bil vstal zgodaj in se odpravil peš v mesto. Tam pri mlinu od brvi je zagledal črno ženo, ki mu je prihajala naproti. Slišal je njen veseli smeh. V istem hipu je bila prešla mimo. »Dobro jutro!« je rekel mož, žena pa ni odvrnila nič. Toda mož je slišal čisto dobro, kako se je smejala in govorila sama za se. Tedaj se je mož plaho ozrl in videl, da gleda žena sredi cesti stoječa za njim, ali vsaj zdelo se mu je tako. In skoro groza ga je bilo. »Coprnica je!« je pomislil in začel hiteti. Hanca pa je še ža hip postala sredi ceste, zamahnila nato z roko proti Peči in zamrmrala nekaj in nato odhitela proti vasi. j V.. 3 ^NADALJEVANJE PRIHODNJIČ— A Christinas Story for the Young People’s Page: THE STORY OF "POLKA JOE” A couple of month’s ago, my better half was walking down Joseph Campau, the main street of the town of Hamtramck (predominently a Polish-Yugoslav community here). He saw a woman toss a bag out of the car window. As the bag fell, a tiny kitten ran from it, toward him. Another car ran over the bag seconds later, crushing to death the other four brothers and sisters of the kitten. Fortunately, a police squad car was also coming down the street, noted what the lady did and took off after her, arrested her and found out she had several outstanding warrants, so they held her. Then came the question of what to do with this helpless kitten. The police officer said he already had many animals at home and we have some, too. Nevertheless, my better half decided to take the kitten home and started walking with it under his shirt. Some lime later, the police officer saw him still walking and so he picked them up and both he and the kitten had a ride home in the police car!! The kitten was really helpless - had been taken from its mother too early and did not even know how to eat! I never thought we’d raise him. For a couple of weeks we shoved baby food, cat food, etc. into its mouth. Some he swallowed - some he spit out. I bought a doll baby bottle, put milk and honey in it and poured it down the kitten’s throat. Finally, one day, after what seemed an eternity, he liked the baby food and began to lick my finger that 1 had just stuck into the food. Then, he started eating normally, even though a bit slowly. Finally, I thought, he would live! His name? How did he get it? First, the street he was found on was called Joseph Campau, hence the name Joe and Hamtramk is a “polka town” so there’s the Polka. Hamtramk is also known as “a touch of Europe in America”. 1 am proud to say the mean lady in the story was neither Polish nor Yugoslav - not even was she from Hamtramk! ‘‘Polka Joe” is growing nicely, eating like a piggy and is a source of much joy to us. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! 4 Contributed by Marie Bomhach Dye, member of Br. 105, Detroit, Michigan f “FOR THE YOUNG AT HEART” ‘Tis the Season to Be Joyous’ Hi Boys and Girls, The Christmas Season has to be one of, if not, the busiest seasons there is. All the preparations that go on for that one day! The decorating, baking, shopping for gifts! This Christmas is extra busy for me. See, I’m expecting a baby who is due to be born around Christmas or New Year’s. •s cov The other day while folding one of the small baby blankets 1 have, I got to thinking. Mary probably wove blankets for Baby Jesus. She probably prepared for Him much the same way I’m preparing for my child. Then, just when she probably figured she was all set, someone got the brilliant idea to take a census. So, she had to leave the little crib St. Joseph probably made, the blankets and booties and she had to get on a donkey and go to Bethlehem. Boys and girls, if the Blessed Virgin didn’t do another thing the rest of her life, that act alone would have made her Queen of Heaven and Earth. I mean a donkey isn’t exactly the most comfortable transportation normally, let alone for someone being nine months with child. It took a lot of backbone and stamina to do that. She had to be one strong lady. So, boys and girls if you need strength to do something. Or if you feel pain physically or mentally, just call upon Mary. She knows from a first-hand experience what it is to be drained physically and mentally. She also knows how to keep going. She knows how to trust in God even when all odds say. Impossible! I hope you and yours have a Merry Christmas and 1 hope the Star of Bethlehem shines on you throughout 1984. ‘Til Next Month DAVY o I cj U 6 i-Ve 1 ° j e, i J o Drawing by Andrea Selak, age 5 Girard, Ohio (Br. 55) 2ND CLASS POSTAGE PAID CHICAGO ILLINOIS Milwaukee, Wisconsin THE BANKERS TO SEE ARF AT [| llm Union National Bank ni pJID andTrustCompany mi whim nnsl winwi si h«»coui> I N1 I 50 Watt Jaffsrton, Jollal. Illlnola 60431 TEZAK FUNERAL 459 North Ottawa Street HOME Joliet, IL 60435 First in service since 1908 Phone 772-0534 Cookbook Order Form “POTS& PANS” Please send me___________copies at $8.00 each plus $ 1.00 for postage and handling per book. NAME _________________________________________ Address ______________________________________ City ________ State _________ Zipcode _______ Make checks payable to and send order to: Slovenian Women's Union, 431 No. Chicago, St. Joliet, 1L 60432. FRED c. DAMES FUNERAL HOME Joel L. Dames Mark L. Dames Jon P. Dames 251 N. 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