Let Not The Light Of Freedom Be Extinguished1 American Home over 100 years' of serving American- Šlo.venians Vol. 108, No. 16 America* Ameriška SLOVENIAN MORNl ..-•w »KAPER USPS 024100 ISSN Number 0164-68X AMERIŠKA DOMOVINA, MAY 18, 2006 Phone: (216) 431-0628 er-mail: ah@buckcyevveb.com 70t Julie Zalar, center, and associate cooks, plus waitresses, get ready to serve a Ave., in Cleveland sumptuous meal on March 25 at the Slovenian National Home on St. Clair (Photo by PHIL HRVATIN) Dr. Zigon Speaks at Heritage Function The Slovenian American Heritage Foundation invites , a*l to attend the third talk in tiieir 2006 lecture series. The Foundation is extremely Pleased that Dr. Zvone ^igon, the Consul General of Republic of Slovenia, provide an update on current events in Slovenia. The program, which is free aud open to the public, will luke place on Tuesday, May 7“ at 7 p.m., in the Lower Hall of the Slovenian Society Home, 20713 Recher Ave-*|Ue in Euclid, Ohio. A cof-ee and strudel social will °How the lecture. his presentation, Dr. • 'S00 will review the consu-^-diplomatic work of his bee and provide an update u recent events in Slovenia, specifically, he will discuss pe°venia’s role in the Euro-^ 4,1 Union and the resolu-ng.n °F border disputes with ^boring Croatia. ' Zvone Zigon was t^cd the Consul General of 'c. Republic of Slovenia in eveland in June of 2005. Prior to this appointment, Dr. Zigon was a consular to the Slovenian government in the Office for Slovenians Abroad at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. In this position he was responsible for matters concerning Slovenians in all countries and continents with the exception of the countries bordering Slovenia. Dr. Zigon’s educational background includes an undergraduate degree in Journalism (1993), a master’s degree in Socio-Cultural Anthropology (1995) and a doctorate in Political Anthropology (2000) from the University of Ljubljana. Several of his scientific monographs on the subject of Slovenian emigration have been published. From 1990 to 2005, Dr. Zigon was the manager of the prestigious mixed chamber choir Ave. In 2000 he was the manager of the world-famous Slovenski oktet male vocal group during its 50th anniversary year. Reminder The American Home (Ameriška Domovina) will be printed the first three Thursdays of each month ONLY. NOT every week. There will be NO American Home on Thursday, May 25. The next issue will be dated Thursday, June 1. NEW QUIZ by James V. Debevec II What is the only mammal that can fly? Thanks to Ruth Abbott who correctly identified the “bat” as the only mammal that can fly. New quiz: What animals aside from humans can get leprosy? Send answers to Jim ah@buckeveweb.com or mail to Jim, American Home, 6117 St. Clair Ave., Cleveland, OH 44103. A Slovenian wearing a e/ove has a lot of love. Devotional to Our Lady of Brezje On Tuesday, May 23, at 7:30 p.m., all are invited to meet at Our Lady of Lourdes Shrine on Chardon Road in Euclid, Ohio, for the annual May devotions in honor of Our Lady of Brezje, Patroness of Slovenia. The Ohio Federation of KSKJ Lodges is sponsoring this devotional. Rev. John Kumse, Pastor of St. Mary Church, is planning the liturgical program. It is anticipated that various Slovenian clergy will be joining him to participate in the devotional. The prayer service will include recitation of the Rosary in conjunction with a candlelight procession, benediction, and the singing of Slovenian litanies to the Blessed Virgin Mary. --Joseph V. Hočevar Federation President Pristava Opening Day A year went by and we are again ready for more good times at Slovenska Pristava. The building of the new hall is in full swing, and on Sunday, June 4, everybody can see the progress. The first “veselica” will start with a Mass celebrated by Rev. Father Janez Kumše at 12:30. After Mass one can have a dinner by getting a ticket from Elizabeth Zalik 440-537-1941, or Breda Ribic at 440-943-0621. After 3 p.m. Veseli Godci will entertaiij everybody, dancers, and spectators. Members and friends of Slovenska Pristava, please come and enjoy good food, music and friendship. ___________________________ Milan Ribic Be courteous to all, but intimate with few, and let those few ke well tried before you give them your confidence. True friendship is a part of slow growth, and must undergo and withstand the shocks of adversity before it is entitled to the appellation. -George Washington ________________ \o s CN od H < S < Z > o s o Q cti tu S < AMERICAN HOME AMERIŠKA DOMOVINA 6117 St. Clair Ave., Cleveland, OH 44103-1692 Telephone: 216/431-0628 - Fax: 216/361-4088 AMERIŠKA DOMOVINA (USPS 024100) James V. Debevec - Publisher, English Editor Dr. Rudolph M. Susel - Slovenian Editor Ameriška Domovina Permanent Scroll of Distinguished Persons: Rt. Rev. Msgr. Louis B. Baznik, Michael and Irma Telich, Frank J. Lausche, Paul Kosir NAROČNINA: Združene države Amerike in Kanada: $35 letno za ZDA; $40 za Kanado (v ZD valuti) Slovenija in tujina, letalska pošta, $165 letno (v ZD valuti) SUBSCRIPTION RATES United States and Canada: U.S.A.: $35 per year; Canada: $40 in U.S. currency Slovenia and other foreign: $165 U.S. per year (air) AMERICAN HOME (ISSN 0164-680X) is published weekly, except 1st week in July and 1 week after Christmas, for $35 per year by American Home Pub. Co., 6117 St. Clair Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44103-1692. Periodicals postage paid at Cleveland, Ohio. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to AMERICAN HOME, 6117 St. Clair Cleveland, OH 44103-1692. No. 16 May 18, 2006 Polka Mass at Shrine Various Local Events Help Slovenia Celebrate 15th Year ofIndependence | | by RUDY FLIS \ ' It is almost time for our annual “Mass of Christian Joy,” a Slavic folk liturgy -polka Mass, celebrated by the “Polka Priest,” Father George Balasko, with the Wayne Tomsic Combo’s beautiful music accompanying us during Mass at Our Lady of Lourdes Shrine in Euclid, Ohio. On Wednesday, June 14 the Mass will begin at 6 p.m. But before Mass at 4 p.m., until 8 p.m., the Sisters will prepare a “Chicken Papri-kash Dinner” for those who pray the Mass best on a full stomach. The donation for dinner, all its trimmings and dessert, is $8. Dinners will be served after Mass until 8 p.m. Our Lady of Lourdes Shrine is tucked away on a hillside, as peace and tranquility are partners with nature’s beauty, making a visit to Mary’s shrine for a Mass, with the music of our heritage a soul warming experi-£ ence. At times, I do wonder what my mom and dad would have felt or experience at a Polka Mass. On 2 Sunday morning, at weddings and when my brother Mickey practiced on his accordion were the only times my parents could enjoy their music. As I prepare myself for Mass, I can not be ready for the overwhelming feeling that swallows my soul when the music to praise Our Lord starts, and is a polka or waltz melody, so familiar to me. All during the Mass my mom and dad, my brothers and sisters, all of them are with me. A powerful prayer, the Mass, seems even more powerful to this soul, when it is a Polka Mass, like a family reunion. I will be at the Polka Mass at the Shrine on the 14th of June. I will eat and enjoy the blessings of God. Then I will pray the Mass, receive Jesus in Holy Communion, and will sing all through Mass. It will be a joyous time for me. Last year, this year, and next year, God willing, as we remember those O’Ja, old friends of Father George, who rest in peace and the popular band members who also rest in peace. Northeast Ohio’s large Slovenian community will celebrate its rich heritage and mark 15 years of independence for its homeland of Slovenia, with a big series of events. Fifteen years of independence begins Monday, June 5 as Cleveland Mayor Frank Jackson dedicates a special exhibit in the Rotunda of City Hall, featuring the art and culture, and valuable contributions of Slovenian Americans to life in Greater Cleveland. Other events include unveiling of an historic plaque, a wine tasting, a film festival, a Cleveland City Club speech by Slovenia’s Ambassador to the United States, and a special day of concerts and religious observances on Sunday, June 25. Slovenia’s Consul General in Cleveland, Dr. Zvone Žigon, predicts all of Northeast Ohio will share his enthusiasm for Slovenian Days. “I’ve known for the last 20 years that Cleveland is the largest Slovenian city outside of Slovenia, Dr. Zigon said. “I always took this to be romantic legend. Now, after only eight months into my appointment here, I take it as a fact.” Greater Cleveland is home to more than 80,000 residents of Slovenian descent. Since the first Slovenian immigrants arrived in the area in the late 19th century, Northeast Ohio Slovenians have been instrumental in all aspects of the region’s growth, development, and leadership. Some special events: May 27-7 p.m. - Igor in Zlati Zvonki from Slovenia in St. Mary’s Parish Center. June 1-6 p.m. Slovenian Polka Night at Lake County Captains baseball game at Classic Park. First pitch by Consul General Dr. Zvone Žigon. June 5 - 4:30 - 7 p.m. Opening Ceremonies of Slovenian Days at Cleveland City Hall. June 23 - Raising of Slovenian flag at Ohio State Capital in Columbus. June 24-12 noon - Slovenski Dan at Slovenska Pristava. Members free; $4 non-members. - 3 p.m. Steak Dinner; 4 p.m. - Dance with Stan Mejac orchestra. June 25, 12:30 p.m. -Slovenian Mass in St. Vitus church with Most Rev. Bishop Ed Pevec, Rev. Joseph Božnar, and Rev. John Kumše 1:30 - 3 p.m. - Refreshments at Slovenian National Home, St. Clair 3 p.m. - Official celebration of 15 years of independence. Cleveland singing groups Korotan, Fantje na Vasi, Slovenian Junior Chorus, Glasbena Matica, Melodija, Zaija; Cleveland dancing group Kres., etc. July 7 - Ambassador Žbogar addresses City Club Fo- Rode is Slovenia’s First Cardinal When Pope Benedict XVI announced during a general audience that Slovenian Archbishop Franc Rode was to be one of the 15 dignitar- i ies to be made cardinal at a consistory on 24 March, Rode headed the Slovenian Roman Catholic Church for seven years as archbishop of Ljubljana and Slovenian metropolitan before he was summoned to the Vatican in ] the spring of 2004 to become prefect of the congregation for religious orders. j 1 His naming as cardinal was hailed by the Slovenian Bishops’ Conference as a sign of the pope’s trust in the Slovenian church and the nation of Slovenia. Congratulations were sent to Rode, the highest ranking Slovenian in the hierarchy of the Roman Catholic Church, by all Slovenian top officials as well as by the Muslim community in Slovenia. Rode is actually the first Slovenian cardinal, but the third of Slovenian descent in the history of the Slovenian Roman Catholic Church. The first Slovenian to become cardinal was Gorica Archbishop Jakob Missia in 1899, followed by Toronto Archbishop Alojzij Ambrožič 99 years later. —SINFO Strudels St. Mary’s parish (Holmes Ave.) is offering homemade apple, cherry and cheese strudels for sale. Donation is $7.50 for apple and cherry, and $8 for cheese. Call the rectory office to place your orders at (216) 761-7740. PERKIN’S RESTAURANT 22780 Shore Center Dr. Euclid, Ohio 44123 216 - 732-8077 Operated by Joe Foster rum. -Johanna Bajc Hospitality is Highlighted in Slovenia □ fSepa 22078 Lake Shore Blvd, Euclid, Ohio Expand your horizons call Euclid Travel We Remember Our Deceased Family, Friends, and those who died in Military Service Donna - Pat - Mary - Rose Marilyn - Creighton - Kathy Helen - Jeanne - Ludy (216) 261-1050 Donna Lucas, owner 1-800-659-2662 www.euclidtravel.com This and that from Emilee by EMILEE JENKO Dober dan. Love is made in heaven and maintained on earth. Congratulations to the newlyweds Gorden Luce and Florence Unetich. April 29 Was “the” day. St. Mary’s Church in Collinwood was the” place. Officiating was pastor, Fr. John Kumše. Off to Slovenia and Italy on their honeymoon. Wishing them God’s blessings. Spied Pete and Mary Jo Rom at the last Holmes Avenue Slovenian Home raffle. Both looked fine and Very fit. Don’t know if their Pockets were full or empty after the raffle. April 30th was the Slovene Home for the Aged volun-teers luncheon at Sterle’s Slovenian Country House restaurant. Many good people volunteer for the residents of the Home. Jeffery ^as is the administrator. Elaine Mlakar is the activities director who does a Magnificent job keeping the residents happy with crafts, Music and religious mo-Ments. The Champa group entertains them, and bingo is handled in increments by SWA Circles 3 and 7, and Me Ladies Auxiliary. Entertainment is by the Croatian Sons Tamburitzans, Euclid Squeeze Boxers, Novinc and nends, the Mass singers, Mid last but not least, the Birthday Party Singers. Isn’t hat quite a line-up? Who JMuld ask for anything more? he residents love it, even e one or two who nod off 0r a short nap. The volunteers were given i Small back-pack and a °vely dinner as always pre-Pjred by the Sterle crew. My Mner companions were Dan Mger, Bill and Jo Klein, ^Mu and Matt Grdadolnik. e thank the “home” for the TJ We love doing it. tVr atted with Emma andn*1’ Stibil, Tony thv rl0res Mihelich, Doro-u . Camm and friend, ,c?nl™ Vidmar, Julia Kray-tL.AHc= Cech, Olga Kl cher and President Bob loev ?er’ Rosemary Mam, ZoL bamsa> -Hoe and Ann Tv. c’ E)ick and Fran 5Venier, Elsie Paul Yancher, Turk ^v*cFl> uud Agnes Th v°iu^.toP ten award winning hanic ^ Were Mitzie Ur-Weye’r r!?k Koenig, Janice dances vU°rGthy Elsrsich> ling t ,Vac> Betty Sper- Etyatei °*RSe Troglia> Tony Joe ,BeLtty Novak, and Xderfet,ch- Zivio- You are 8iven t U ' -A- big hand was ail d ° all the winners. We hannvParted fulfilled to Lou ■ Mav V-. All your friends all over the world wish you the best, and happy days ahead. Belated Happy Anniversary to Lloyd and Emma DeLach. Good health and happiness. I was one of the unfortunate ones to be working as a judge at the voting polls. Nothing was ready in working order. The machines were faulty and the paper work was horrendous. The setup for the electronic devices was a nightmare. ‘Nuff said. You’ve seen it on TV and heard about it on radio. We need to clean up the act. Belated Get Well wishes to Jimmy Slapnik. I’m sure June delivered all the TLC. He is up and around now and back at the flower shop. The Slovene Home for the Aged Auxiliary had been granted a donation of $1,000 from The Frances and Jane S. Lausche Foundation for the summer socials. Many, many thanks from myself and all of my volunteers. Bless you. Bumped into Fred Bisbee at the election polls at St. Martin de Porres. Long time no see; don’t be a stranger. Birthday greetings to Nor-bert Novak on his 80th from brother Ray, and Lil Novak, and all the AMLA St. Anne #4 members. Enjoy. Taylor Bierce, granddaughter of Marie and Bill Azman made her Communion on April 27 in Green Bay, Wis., where she resides with mom, Gina Skorich Mcginnis. Brother Bryan shared in the festivities. Marie Azman flew there to also join the happy occasion. God bless all. Marie and Bill’s other granddaughter Mackenzie, daughter of Angelique Skorich, made her Communion on May 7 at Lake Shore Christian Church. Reception after the celebration. God be with you. Hello to Julie Florea who was in Rehab at the Slovene Home for the Aged and is now recuperating at “The Village.” Speedy recovery. Visitors from Venice, Fla., were Ernie and Gladys Luzar. They always meet friends at the SWH on Waterloo. Everyone is always glad to see you, especially yours truly. Happy Birthday celebration... 92-years young: Joe Petrich and George Knaus. Help them celebrate on May 18 at Recher Hall in Euclid. It’ll be a blast.. Those Happy Recycled Teenagers (Thanks, Matt Z.) Caroline Bros'; and Rose Brady Congratulations from all the West Side Slovenian Home members and all your friends on being feted for all your good work. Zivio. Thank you R. Stelzken for your “Slovenian Home” mention in your “Happy News” in the last issue of AH. Sure do appreciate it. Left out one group as organizers of the St. Vitus benefit dinner on Palm Sunday: The Holy Name Society. Apologies. We had a wonderful day during our excursion to the “Millionaires Row.” Sixteen members of the SANAG (Slovenian American National Art Guild) group enjoyed luncheon at Sterle’s and chatting on a one-to-one basis with friends. I hope we can do something similar again real soon. Thank you SANAG for the treat. Very much appreciated. A look at the past: I received a call from a lady who wanted information about Anton Hibler who operated a jewelry store on E. 67th and St. Clair many, many moons ago. If you know of this man, please contact me at (216) 261-3427. Deepest sympathies to the family of Victoria Spelic, brother Fred Spelic. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. I thoroughly enjoyed Eddie Adamic’s article in last week’s AH. I feel as though I know him. All the fellows he wrote about were also in my life one way or another. Thanks, Eddie; it was great you put your thoughts into words. I enjoyed it very much. I want to again say how much I enjoyed our conversation at St. Mary’s Raffle. I hadn’t seen Dan Nagode since he was a young boy. His dad and mom were good Grandmother is Agnes Mary friends of mine many years Briscar. Congratulations and * ago. Dad has passed away the best in your future. and Dan now lives with mom in Mentor. I’m so happy you approached me. We talked about many things and it was so very nice. Keep in touch, Danny. Say hello to all the family in California. John Manning Jr. completed his schooling at Cleveland State and received a Master’s Degree. He is the son of John and Judy. Gotta go... hope I eased your day with my chit-chat. Till we meet again, I will leave you with this thought: Making friends takes a moment. Being a friend takes a lifetime. Luvya, Se vedmo. —Emilee LAVRISHA 216-391-0035 Construction & Repair Services ___ Rokodelec Contractor This Memorial Weekend, we remember our deceased family, friends, and those who died in military service R & D Sausage Co. 15714 Waterloo Road Cleveland, OH 44110 - 6921832 We have fresh Slovenian Sausages Smoked and Fresh Želodec Cooked or Uncooked Cottage Ham Homemade Salami Imported Foods - Poticas Strudels and MUCH MORE For orders call Joe Zuzak, Owner Tuesday - Thursday, 8-5 Friday-8-6 Saturday 8-5 We wish all Americans have a peaceful and happy Memorial Day I wl FE I rx n/ I H( FEDERATION OF SLOVENIAN NATIONAL HOMES President - Robert Rov»- 1“ Vice President ‘ ynd y75_ - — — Anthony Mannion L • *ve President - Edward Gabrosek Financial Secretary and Treasurer - Lou Grzely Recording and Corresponding Secretary - Nancy Vasilko Executive Secretary - Patricia Ipavec Clarke Auditors: Frank Gruber, Anna Mae Mannion and Evelyn Pipoly 9 AMERIŠKA DOMOVINA, MAY 18, AMERIŠKA DOMOVINA, MAY 18, 2006 4 WWI Slovenian Slaughter Area Bovec and its surrounding area has a special place in the history of war. Many objects from World War I can still be found in the area and are a reminder of the dreadful events that took place on one of the central battlefields of the Great War. At the end of the 19th century Italy joined the alliance of Germany and Austria, but left it just before the beginning of the World War I. In May 1915 Italian troops attacked Austria. The Soča Frbnt was of extraordinary proportions even for World War I and is considered to be the biggest mountainous field of battle in the history of mankind. -After 11 offensives along the Soča river, the Italians conquered only a small part of Slovenian territory. The combined Austro-Hungarian and German army eventually broke through the Italian line and caught the Italian de- fense by surprise. The Central Powers carried out one of the greatest breakthroughs in the history of WWI and is in fact the first example of a blitzkrieg in history. This tactic was then used 20 years later in WWII. The Italians declared war with the Austro-Hungarian Empire in 1915. They considered the area around the Soča river the easiest way of invading the empire. But the battles on this front turned out to be among the most frightful and claimed heavy losses. Historians believe that more than 300,000 soldiers lost their lives in three years of battle, but rumor has it that the real figure was over a million. The battle left behind destroyed homes, countless military graveyards, many bones, but also long military roads, stairways built in the rocks, barbed wire, helmets and guns. Ervin Rommel, also known as the Desert Fox, was one of the most famous WWII generals. But as a young officer he excelled himself on the Soča Front and later wrote a book on the Kobarid breakthrough. Another book which describes the horrors of fighting along the Soča river, is “Farewell to Arms.” In the book the then 18-year-old Ernest Hemingway recalls his memories of the Kobarid battle of 1917 when the front moved west to the river of Piave before the war ended the following year. Each year tourists and residents come across the remains of the battle, such as unexploded bombs and grenades and almost 90 years later the Soča Front sometimes still takes its toll. —The Slovenian Times Keep in mind that neither success nor failure is ever final. -Robert W. Babson Kres Performance Mark your calendars. Kres’ annual performance will be on August 26 at the Slovenian National Home. Lendava Classic Business Styles USA Debut of Elkroj Ladies trouser collection at Patria Import 794 E. 185 St., Cleveland from Slovenija - made with fine Italian fabric ________________________Vajkard Group New Subscriber Campaign Put a NEW subscription to the American Home (Ameriška Domovina) newspaper on your spring “to do” list. Our usual anonymous donor will pay $15.00 for each NEW subscriber to American Home (up to 35). This paper will kick in $5.00 which means it will cost only $15.00 for each NEW one year subscription. Read all about your Slovenian heritage, plus activities in the Slovenian communities in the United States and Canada. This also makes an excellent gift because the recipient will remember your thoughtfulness each time this paper arrives. Send $15.00 check along with the name and complete address of the person who will receive the paper, to Ameri-can Home, 6117 St. Clair Ave., Cleveland, OH 44103. J Hospitality is Native to Slovenia It's Time for vour eve exam! J. F. OPTICAL Eye Care Specialists Eye Exams Latest in eye fashion - Contact Lenses We Welcome Your Drs. Prescription 775 E. 185th St. Eye Glasses Cleveland, OH 44119 Repaired Tel.: (216) 531-7933 (34) I In Our Hearts and Memory They Are Always With Us FATHER, GRANDFATHER, MOTHER, GREAT-GRANDFATHER GRANDMOTHER, GREAT- GRANDMOTHER Joseph Zele Sr. Theresa Zele Born March 8, 1867 Born Oct. 15, 1884 Died May 22, 1953 Died Apr. 27, 1947 BROTHER BROTHER BROTHER HUSBAND, FATHER GRANDFATHER, BROTHER I Henry Zele Ferdinand Zele August Zele Louis Zele Born June 23, 1910 Born May 30, 1896 Born Aug. 11, 1906 Born June 10, 1908 Died Oct. 22, 1918 Died Feb. 15, 1919 Died July 12, 1934 Died Apr. 18, 1964 HUSBAND, FATHER WIFE, MOTHER, GRANDFATHER, GRANDMOTHER, SISTER BROTHER Joseph Zele Jr. Josephine Hirter Born Nov. 11, 1917 Born March 2, 1912 DieaJr. 19» 1974 Died Feb. 20, 1982 IN LOVING MEMoixY j Bernarda Fink, Renowned Mezzo-Soprano Why Old Geezers Are Easy to Spot At firCt nl'inpa »Ua T> I _ i , ti A * a.. 1 . .. . At first glance she appears so fragile and petite that no one would guess her incredible inner strength. The pure sounds of her voice that the mezzo-soprano Bernarda Fink is able to produce have attracted audiences to the most prestigious concert balls in the world. Recently, this Slovenian woman, who calls the world her home, has received an important award from the Austrian Government, the Austrian Cross of Honor for Science and Art. Her life story is just as colorful as the stories she so convincingly sings on stage. . e has loved music ever s>nce she was bom to patri-°tic parents in Buenos Aires, Argentina on 29 August, ^55. Her sister Veronika, vv*10 has, among other ven-J*es. also performed at the jubljana Opera House, and father Marko, who lives in °venia and is a world fa-mous tenor, have also dedi-cated their lives to music. Hernarda, who can be nj‘0re than proud of the fact ? e speaks seven foreign anguages, received her mu-S’cal education in Argentina, . re she studied solo single at the renowned Higher institute for Arts, Teatro Co-°n in Buenos Aires. Her Parents also passed on their ove of literature to their hdi^n at a very early age. After winning the first 1126 at the New Lyrical Voi, lCes competition in 1985, Bernarda moved to Europe, where she has performed with some of the most renowned symphony orchestras of the old continent, the Vienna Philharmonic, the Czech Philharmonic, the Berlin Philharmonic, the London Philharmonic, the Academy of St. Martin-in-the-Fields, the II Giardno Armonico Ensemble, the Gewandhaus Orchestra Leipzig, the leading Paris orchestras, the Salzburg Mo-zarteum Orchestra, the Resi-dentie Orchestra of The Hague, and the New Japanese Philharmonic. While traveling extensively, she met diplomat Valentin Inzko in Geneva. He is a member of the Slovenian minority in the southern Austrian province of Carinthia. They quickly found they had a lot in common, married and are today the proud parents of two children. Bernarda has thus proved she is indeed an extraordinary woman who has no trouble mixing the two biggest responsibilities in life, which are family and career. Her son Simon and daughter Valentina are being brought up in a patriotic spirit, and her love for the Slovenian language has been passed on to them. Bernarda Fink is an opera and concert diva, and music critics have called her the most successful Slovenian What would men be without women? Scarce, sir... mighty scarce. -Mark Twain hair salon 46 5216 Wilson Mills Road sJL'?989 / 461-0623 Richmond Hts., Ohio 44143 d singer. She has collaborated with the most well-known orchestras and conductors in the world, such as Sir Neville Mariner, Nikolaus Harnoncourt to name just a few. They all have only offered praise for her. After Bernarda Fink’s performance in Bach’s Christmas Oratory last year, just before Christmas when she excelled over other performers and won over the audience, one of the critics tried to express how convincing her interpretation of the alto recital and arias was with the following words, “The mezzo-soprano Bernarda Fink’s performance is outstanding, deep, and emotionally powerful, reaching its peak when it comfortably reminds us of a lullaby.” It is therefore not surprising that the top Slovenian artist is regularly invited to the most prestigious festivals. Bernarda has published more than 50 recordings featuring her interpretations, among which Monteverdi has a special place in her heart, although she also likes singing Mozart, Rossini, Handel, and Bach, as well as others. Besides the Austrian Cross of Honor for Science and Art, she has also received a number of other awards including a Grammy. --Andreja Comino, Sinfo St. Mary’s Slovenian School Mother’s Day Celebration The St. Mary’s (Coll.) Slovenian School invites all mothers to their annual Mother’s Day program. It will start shortly after the 10 a.m. Mass on Sunday, May 21 in the St. Mary’s Parish Hall. As usual, the fathers of the Slovenian school will serve a delicious breakfast for everyone after the program. 100 WORDS MORE OR LESS by John Mercina T “ŠMARNICE” (LILIES OF THE VALLEY) (tar mon* May, in the life of the Slovenian Catholic church, is edicated to Mary, the mother of Jesus. In the years past, on every one . the 31 days of May, a special devotion, named “šmarnice” was held the church to honor Mary. The name “šmarnice” was taken from j e n.ame of the flower blooming in May - smaraicp, The first Motion of “Šmarnice” was held in Ljubljana in 1851 and then spread oughout Slovenia. Blessed Anton Slomšek is said to have started $ho devot*on in Slovenia. The daily “Šmarnice” devotion involved a Dc sermon as well as beautiful singing of songs dedicated to Mary. "potion involved whole families but stressed children’s involvement bad penny, I always show 3 up. I know for a fact that ^ Sister Bernadette hoped I 3 would have never shown up, < but ready or not, I’m here. 2 Want to thank Eda Gar- < steck, Mimi Stibil, Donna S Ohman for keeping tabs on me. Sorry, I did not return your calls but then I did not even return the “Undertaker’s Call.” I am not out of the woods yet and this week will be seeing two doctors for as you can see, I like to keep good company. The one doctor I will see Wednesday is a new dude, a specialist, but then when it comes to me, let’s face it, this cool cat needs all the specialists he can get. This doctor will figure out how to get the water that has accumulated in and around my lungs, for the other doctors for-warned him that I was not a good swimmer. And to tell the truth, at my age, I can’t even float any more. He’ll probably think I am nuts when I bring an air-filled inner tube to his office. I lost some 18 pounds, but then when you just live on antibiotics, your desire for food just goes away. You might say I get filled up on pills. You can’t find much food in my ice box, but the kitchen table looks like a pharmacy. I have to admit that last week’s paper was great for there were a lot of new writ- ers and a lot of good stories which had me in stitches. I enjoyed Rudy Flis’ article, almost like an Immaculate Conception. Just goes to show you that sometimes you hit the jackpot even when you are not trying. I also liked Rudy Pivik’s article and his trip to Slovenia for I feel that just around the comer in the next installment, he will say “I do.” Those who know Rudy and Maria, know that those two were made for each other. Speaking of those two, they are the two that make the West Park Slovenian National Home click. They make it a success with the endless hours they devote to the National Home. I also enjoyed the article, jokes by Emma Pogačar and in particular her story on “20 years of marriage.” Here is hoping we hear from Emma often. Needless to say, all of us old timers enjoyed Joe Glinšek’s article on “Slovenian Religious Customs” for we can relate to it. The second submission by Emma, “My Practical Mother” was most touching. I have said it in other articles that perhaps the two words we forget most is “Thank you.” We get too accustomed to everything, never thinking to stop to say thanks whether it is to mom and dad, or above all, God. They send a lot of good things our way and we take a lot for granted. I am a little late, because this poem should have been in last week’s edition, in time for Mother’s Day. But There are many things in life that will catch your eye, but only a few will catch your heart... Pursue those. Brickman-Di Donato FUNERAL HOME Jeff DiDonato, owner Tom Corrigan Harlan Saxton Lloyd Rankin 21900 Euclid Ave. Euclid, OH 216-481-5277 Caring ~ Compassionate ~ Dedicated to Euclid then Ray was down and out. So even though it is a week late, you know my heart is in the right place. I am sure if we all think back, when growing up, when we wanted something special, whom did we ask? If we think back to our Blessed Mother, how often did we go to Mary and ask her to intercede for a special favor. We always turn to our mothers for the impossible tasks. Moms, everywhere we thank you from the bottom of our hearts and will forever be grateful to you for all you have done in our behalf*. At My Mother’s Knee I have worshiped in churches and chapels I have prayed in the busy street I have sought my God and have found him Where the waves of the ocean beat. Have knelt in silent forest, In the shade of some ancient tree. But the dearest of all my altars Was raised at my Mother’s knee...” Well, Ray, you tried to pay your homage and time to close with a few thoughts to ponder: Every wonder about those people who spend $3 on those little bottles of Evian Water? Spell it backwards and you get “Naive.” If 4 out of 5 people suffer from diarrhea, does that mean that 1 out of 5 enjoys it? Okay, one more. If people from Poland are called Poles, why aren’t people from Holland called Holes. Uh, oh; my water is sloshing about. Time to see the doctor. In closing May the good Lord bless and watch over all of you. Thanks to all moms for all the undying love you showed us throughout our life. St. Vitus Slovenian School Make Good Use of Gifts On Dec. 5, 2005, Saint Nicholas made his annual visit to the students of St. Vitus Slovenian Language School. His generosity to the children of the school was especially noteworthy this year. Each child received a lovely polo shirt embroidered with the school name. In addition, each family received a paperback Slove-lian-English dictionary. The students have worn heir polo shirts on two occasions already. The first was it our annual visit to the Slovene Home for the Aged on Neff Road on Saturday, Feb. 11. The students looked quite attractive. The second occasion was our dinner on Feb. 26. So many of our guests commented on the appearance of the students as they participated in the Mass before the dinner and as they helped at the dinner. Of course, the dictionaries have been used in the classrooms and at home to complete homework assignments. The Faculty and Parent Board would like to thank The Frances and Jane S. Lausche Foundation for the grant of $2,000 the St. Vitus Slovenian school received in October, 2005, which allowed Saint Nicholas to be so generous. Once again the foundation has allowed an area Slovenian organization to obtain needed and attractive items. The angels who help Sveti Miklavž are sometimes also found here on earth. --Mojca Slak, Principal Coming Attractions Friday, May 19 West Park Slovenian Home, 4583 W. 130 St., Cleveland dance from 7:30 - 11:15 p.m. with music by Wayne Tomsic. Saturday, May 20 Revive the “Nash,” Reverse Raffle $1,500 grand prize. $50 per couple, $35 single. Doors open at 6, dinner at 7. Music by Wayne Tomsic. Sunday, May 21 Breakfast at Collinwood Slovenian Home, 15810 Holmes Ave. Includes eggs, sausage, bacon, hash browns, toast, coffee. 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Donation $6. Sunday, May 21 St. Mary’s Slovenian School Mothers Day program after 10 a.rii. Mass in parish hall. Fathers will serve delicious breakfast. Tuesday, May 2^ Devotional to Our Lady of Brezje at 7:30 p.m. at Our Lady of Lourdes Shrine, Chardon Rd., Euclid, Ohio, sponsored by Ohio Federation ofKSKJ Lodges. Friday, May 26 West Park Slovenian Home, 4583 W. 130 St., Cleveland dance from 7:30 - 11:15 p.m. with music by Frank Moravick. Saturday, May 27 Igor and Ansambel Zlati Zvonski performs in St. Mary’s (Holmes Ave.) church hall. Doors open at 6 p.m. Donation $10. Food and refreshments available. Sunday, May 28 61st anniversary Memorial Mass for all Victims of Communism and Nazism sponsored by DSPB Cleveland, noon at Our Lady of Lourdes Shrine, 21281 Chardon Rd., Euclid, OH Sunday, May 28 Slovenian Memorial Service at All Souls Cemetery, Chardon, OH, 3:30 p.m. All are invited to both events. Thursday, June 1 Slovenian night at the Captains baseball game in East-lake, Ohio at 7 p.m. Tickets $8 at Polka Hall of Fame (216) 261-3263. Friday, June 2 West Park Slovenian Home, 4583 W. 130 St, Cleveland dance from 7:30 - 11:15 p.m. with music by Wayne Tomsic. Sunday, June 4 Slovenska Pristava opens with Mass at 12:30. Dinner follows. For dinner tickets call (440) 537-1941 or (440) 943-0621. Veseli Godci orchestra at 3 p.m. Friday, June 9 West Park Slovenian Home, 4583 W. 130 St, Cleveland dance from 7:30 - 11:15 A>.m. with music by Fred Zi-wich. Sunday, June 11 St. Mary’s Slovenian School picnic at Slovenska Pristava (Veseli godci). Friday, June 16 Pork, sauerkraut and dumpling dinner 5 - 7:30 at Newburgh, Slovenian Home, 3563 E. 80 St, Cleveland. Music by Joe Novak & Friends. Donation $8. Reservations (216) 341-6136. Friday, June 16 West Park Slovenian Home, 4583 W. 130 St, Cleveland dance from 7:30 - 1L15 p.m. with music by Stan Mejač. Saturday, June 17 SPD Tabor - Slovenska Pristava. Sunday, June 18 SPD Tabor, celebration and dinner at Slovenska Pristava. Friday, June 23 West Park Slovenian Home, 4583 W. 130 St, Cleveland dance from 7:30 - 11:15 p.m. with music Eric Nolt-kamper. Saturday, June 24 Slovenian Day - celebrating 15 years ofindependence of Slovenia and 45 years of Slovenska Pristava (Stan Mejač Ansambel) at Slovenska Pristava. Saturday, July 1 Pristava Campers picnic / steak roast at Slovenska Pristava. Thursday, July 7 St. Vitus Alumni meet in St. Vitus Village, 7 p.m. Sunday, July 9 Catholic Mission Aid picnic (MZA) at Slovenska Pristava. Wednesday, July 12 Holmes Ave. Pensioners Picnic at Eagles, 37299 Euclid Ave, Willoughby from noon to 6 p.m. Free admission. All invited. Music by Fred Ziwich. Food and refreshments available. Saturday, July 15 Moonlight Bowling, 6:30 p.m. at Slovenian National Home Co, 3563 E. 80th St. $25 per couple includes bowling, prizes and meal. Call Tony at 440-243-4062. Sunday, July 16 St. Vitus Parish Summer Picnic at Slovenska Pristava. Monday, July 17 Camp Pristava until Sunday morning 7/23 (Slov. schools & Pristava children) at Slovenska Pristava. Sunday, July 23 St. Vitus Slovenian School picnic at Slovenska Pristava. Wednesday, Aug. 2 50-50 Raffle, 7 p.m. at Slovenian National Home Co, 3563 E. 80 St.. $10 admits two. Includes sandwiches, chips and pop. Sunday, Aug. 6 Primorski Club picnic (Tramontana) at Slovenska Pristava. Saturday, Aug. 12 Pristava Picnic (Tramon- P Death Notices JOSEPH SOJER Joseph Sojer, age 86, beloved son of the late Marija (nee Kusar) and Janez Sojer; brother of the following deceased: Ivan, France, Jemej, Mici and Ancka; cherished uncle of Marija Lovše and many others, all of Slovenia. Mr. Sojer was bom in Podgorica, Slovenia and resided in Euclid, Ohio. Mr. Sojer was a member of Slovenska Pristava Pensioners and Balinca Clubs, KSKJ Sacred Heart of Jesus Lodge, tod Tabor. Family received friends at The Dan Cosic Funeral Home, 28890 Chardon Rd., Willoughby Hills, OH on Thursday, May 18 from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. Memorial contributions in his name can be made to the St. Vitus Church Building Fund, 6019 Lausche Ave., Cleveland, OH 44103. Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m. Friday, May 19 in St. ^itus Church. Burial will take place in Slovenia. MARIA MLINAR Maria Mlinar, age 88. Beloved daughter of Lojze and Katarina (both deceased); loving sister of Katarina (deceased), Franc (deceased) (Dorothy (nee March) (deceased) (Antonia nee Rozman) of Chicago, IL, Janez (deceased), Jemej (deceased), Cecilija (Franc (deceased)) Oblak of Slovenia, and Mary Ann (deceased); aunt of Franc Oblak, Marija Pagon, and Anica Kumer; cherished friend of Harriett, Sharon and Tim Hughes, Frank and Bernice Praizner, and Lovro and Ivanka Rozman. Friends were received at Zele Funeral Home, 452 E. 152nd St., Monday 4-7 p.m., where services were held Tuesday at 8:45 a.m. and St. Mary Church (Holmes Ave.) at 9:30 a.m. Interment All Souls Cemetery. Donations to The Catholic Mission Aid Inc., 17826 Brian Ave., Cleveland, OH 44119 in her memory would be deeply appreciated by the family. JOSEPH ZUPANČIČ Joseph Zupančič, 91, of Gary New Duluth, Minn., died Tuesday, May 9, 2006 *n St. Mary’s medical Center. Mr. Zupančič was bom in Tisovec, Slovenia on March M, 1915, to John and Johana (Turk) Zupančič. Joe had emigrated to America, coming to Duluth, in 1949. He had worked at ^t. Mary’s Hospital as a Maintenance Engineer for 31 years. Joe was a member of St. Elizabeth Catholic Church, Mtere he had been an usher 0r many years, KSKJ Lodge the KSKJ singer’s f°up, the St. Elizabeth Men’s Club, Gary New Du-‘uth Senior Citizen’s, Local ® International Operating Engineer’s, AARP, and the ?nti-Communist organiza-,Qn of Toledo, Ohio. Joe was preceded in death y his parents; son, Joseph xj1’ m 1982; wife, Kristina in j °Vember of 2004; brothers <5^’ Eonio; sisters Johanna EnU, Josefma Klun, Marija iklič, and Angela Vidmar, visitation was from 5 to 7 ni. Thursday, with a 6:30 nr Wake Service in the °'ey Chapel. Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m. Friday in St. ^l2abeth’s Catholic Church 'n’ml in Oneota Cemetery. VICTORIA SPELIC Victoria Spelic, age 89. Sister of-Albina (John) Michael (both deceased) and Fred (Fran, nee Plavan) Spelic. Dear aunt of Janet (Tom) McNamara and Robert Spelic (deceased); great aunt of Kelley, Megan, Kathie and Bryan; great-great aunt of three. Friends were received at Zele Funeral Home, 452 E. 152 St., Friday from 3-6 p.m., where services were held Saturday at 10 a.m. Interment Calvary Cemetery. Donations to the charity of your choice in her memory would be deeply appreciated by the family. In Memory Thanks to Christine Molek who donated $60.00 in memory of parents, Joseph and Kristina Zupančič of Duluth, MN. In Memory Thanks to Maria Povsic of Boca Raton, FL who submitted a $10.00 donation in memory of her husband, Frank. In Memory Thanks to Joseph J. and Ivy T. Monahon of Aiken, SC who sent in a $20.00 donation in memory of Ella Samanich, and their relatives. Zele Funeral Home MEMORIAL CHAPEL Located at 452 E. 152 St. Ph: 1216) 481-3118 Family owned and operated since 1908 In Memory Thanks to Ivana Voljcak of Willoughby, OH who submitted a $39.00 donation in memory of her husband, Joseph Volčjak. In Memory Thanks to Margaret De-jak of Euclid, OH who submitted a $20.00 donation in memory of France Dejak. In Memory Thanks to Stephanie M. Segulin of Cleveland, OH who submitted a $5.00 donation in memory of parents, Steffie and Joseph Koncilja. In Memory Thanks to Frank J. Fende Sr., of Richmond Heights, OH who sent in a $15.00 donation in memory of his wife, Doris Fende. In Memory Thanks to Anne Doles of Richmond Heights, OH who renewed her subscription and enclosed a $15.00 donation in memory of her husband, Frank, and grandson, Kenny. She writes, “I enjoy reading the paper and pass it on to others. You are doing a good job; keep it up. In Memory Thanks to Mr. and Mrs. Vincent Globokar, Sr. of Concord, OH who renewed their subscription and added a $25.00 donation in memory of Stanley Batis and his daughter Janet Batis. Donation Thanks to Jack LaVriha of Lorain, OH whq submitted a $15.00 donation in memory of Mary Kure LaVriha. In Loving Memory of Stephanie Rahne nee Dezelan Who was bom Dec. 26, 1917 and died May 21, 1998 The depths of sorrow we cannot tell, Of the loss of one we loved so well. And while she sleeps a peaceful sleep, Her memory we shall always keep. Sadly missed by: Brothers Joseph and Louis Dezelan and many nieces, nephews, and friends. Cleveland OK Mav 18. 2006 I In Honor Thanks to Laverne Hughes of Long Beach, Indiana who sent in a contribution of $25.00 in honor of the 60th wedding anniversary of her dear cousins, Olga and Ed Glicker of Euclid, OH whose big day was May 11th. Congratulations! Large Donation Thanks to Barbara Za-harewicz of Eastlake, Ohio who sent in a $100.00 donation in memory of her wonderful parents, Joseph J. and Frances A. Nemanich. Donation Thanks to Louis and Ca-terina Burjes of Wickliffe, OH who submitted a $25.00 donation. In Loving Memory of the 9th Anniversary of the death of In Loving Memory Of the 35th Anniversary of the death of Joseph Mihelich died May 20,1971 35 years have gone by since you were at our side. Remembered, how rough things were. Now, I understand what they were. In my heart you still live in all the things I do. Now mom’s at your side. I hope it’s a pleasant ride. Sadly rpissed by Son,Joseph and Family Caroline Mihelich Died May 17,1997 A light is from our household gone, A voice we loved is stilled, A place is vacant in our home, Which never can be filled. We have to mourn the loss of one We did our best to save, Beloved on earth, regretted still, Remembered in the grave. T’was hard to part with one so dear, little thought the time was near, Farewell, dear one, life is past, Cur love for you till the end will last. Sadly missed by son, Joseph, sister Pauline Sasa brother-in-law Steve Sasa In Loving Memory and with Lasting Appreciation and Gratitude Josephine Kovač Jože Kovac Born 1898, died April 15, 1995 Born 1899, died May 20, 1956 Martin Bac and Family May God give them peace and may Eternal Light shine upon them. AMERIŠKA DOMOVINA, MAY 18, 2006 AMERIŠKA DOMC 'INA, MAY 18, 2006 8 The life and times of Joseph Mihevc 1940 -1945 My Apprenticeship and After (Continued) After a day or two at home, the anti-communists (domobranci) army mobilized me as a volunteer. About a week later, during the night, the next town of Grahovo was attacked by communists. When they killed any opposition they could find, they burned the church and a well-known guesthouse, and also burned people alive. The dead totaled around 50. I stayed home the next day and hid in the neighbor’s bam overnight. There was a special comer where I could hide. It was after midnight, when through a crack in the door; I saw a member of the communist “liberation army” set fire to the school. My refugee status started the next day, when I left my hometown and went to the railroad station in Rakek. The German army was stationed there, protecting the town from communist attack. I picked up the daily newspaper and noticed an advertisement for mechanics in the railroad locomotive shop in Ljubljana. I responded with an application and went to Postojna, where I got a job in a small shop, to wait for a reply. In this shop, a communist man anxious to hear my thoughts on various issues interrogated me. I was unaware at the time of possible consequences. Fortunately, the railroad shop in Ljubljana accepted me. In order to move about, one had to have a permit issued by the occupying German army. On my second visit, I received this permit along with a receipt authorizing me to work in the railroad shop upon payment of a small fee. I left on Feb. 3, 1944. I had barely any clothes and had no idea where I was going to sleep or what I would eat. I had to secretly bypass my home, because the partisans (communists), who were in control of Cerknica, my hometown, were ever watchful for conscripts to their army or for anything that looked sus- picious. One never knew who one’s friends were and one could be arrested under any pretence, including false accusation. Many people, under these circumstances, would just disappear. Before boarding the train, each passenger was checked. There was another inspection during the ride and then another when one disembarked. The stations were all guarded. When I arrived in Ljubljana, I stored my meager possessions in a locker in the railroad station and went to seek room and board. I had the address and some unclear directions, but I was fortunately able to locate the apprentice’s residence. There were over 100 apprentices from different professions, some other students and also some refugees like myself boarding there. A priest and some nuns were in charge. After settling in at the residence, I went to the railroad shop office with my permits and authorization and I started to work immediately with a group responsible for various repair and maintenance jobs. My coworkers were a secretive group and did not say much. Once, our job was to disconnect the locomotive from the coal and water wagon. It was close to quitting time and my coworkers disappeared and left me on my own. The next day, each member of the group was told to report to the office to explain why the job had not been completed. The others presented all kinds of excuses. My turn was last and I explained how I was left alone to do the job. Unable to find anyone to assist me and unable to complete the job on my own, I had no choice but to leave the job undone. They asked me if I would have stayed if I could have completed the job on my own. I answered yes. When it was payday, everyone in the group received a reduced pay except me. The group members were not too happy to learn that I was the only one who had received my full pay. Fortunately, soon after that incident, I was transferred to another group. Two others and I were in charge of the steam-operated air compressors on the locomotive and the associated equipment for air supply for the whole train. The compressors had been built by Westinghouse and were quite complex. Late one afternoon, we received an order to repair the leak in the steam locomotive and I was offered two hours overtime to stay after hours to complete this job. I quickly and efficiently repaired the leak before the group leader left. When he learned that I had completed it so quickly, he said nothing, but the promised two hours overtime pay was reduced by about half. Whenever there were air attack alarms, everyone in the shop boarded the special train that stood on the spare track for that purpose, and the train took us to the outskirts of the city. Once, when we were moving to the outskirts of the city on that train, there was an ammunition train on the spare track. This train could not move ahead because of track damage, and the German army guarded it. Anyone caught looking at that train was slapped in the face with a tree branch by the guard. I was one of the unlucky ones to get a slap. (To Be Continued) If you are content to be simply yourself and don’t compare or compete everyone will respect you. -Will Rogers —Family Owned and Operated since 1908 — "Four Generations of The ZELE FAMILY Serving the Slovenian community!" Zele Funeral Homes, Inc. In time of Need — We are here to help you. Have a Happy and Safe memorial day 452 East 152nd Street 481-3118 Cleveland, Ohio LICENSED FUNERAL DIRECTORS: Richard J. Zele — Sutton J. Girod — Louis E. Zele Newly Remodeled Inside! Story of Memorial Day Memorial Day, originally called Decoration Day, is a day of remembrance for those who died in our nation’s service. There are many stories as to its actual beginning, with over two dozen cities and towns laying claim to being the birthplace of Memorial Day. There is also evidence that organized women’s groups in the South were decorating graves before the end of the Civil War: a hymn published in 1867 “kneel Where Our Loves are Sleeping” by Nella L. Sweet carried the dedication “To the Ladies of the South who are Decorating the Graves of the Confederate Dead.” While Waterloo, N.Y. was officially declared the birthplace of Memorial Day by President Lyndon Johnson in May, 1986. It is hard to prove conclusively the origins of the day. It is more likely that it had many separate beginnings. Memorial Day was officially proclaimed on May 5, 1868 by General John Logan, national commander of the Grand Army of the Republic, in his General Order No. 11, and was first observed on May 30, 1868, when flowers were placed on the graves of Union and Confederate soldiers at Arlington National Cemetery. The first state to officially recognize the holiday was New York in 1873. By 1890 it was recognized by all of the northern states. The South refused to acknowl- edge the day, honoring their dead on separate days until after World War I (when the holiday changed from honoring just those who died fighting in the Civil War to honoring Americans who died fighting in any way.) Memorial Day is now celebrated in almost every State on the last Monday in May to ensure a three day weekend for Federal holidays, although several southern states have an additional separate day for honoring the Confederate war; dead: Jan. 19 in Texas, April 26 in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, and Missippippi; May 10 in South Carolina; and June 3 (Jefferson Davis’ birthday) in Louisiana and Tennessee. Moina Michael conceived of an idea to wear red poppies on Memorial Day in honor of those who died serving the nation during war. She was the first to wear one, and sold poppies to her friends and co-workers with the money going to benefit servicemen in need. Later a Madam Guerin from France was visiting the United States and learned of this new custom started by Ms. Michael and when she returned to France, made artificial red poppies to raise money for war orphaned children and widowed women. 1 >• ■ v >"• { fy & ■ V:iv . .‘P • \ ’ 'k ' ' ' mji i m S3 ' asv. h < „■ 1 VlSs i.'-" IfA ' »jr* Apartment for Rent E. 200 and Neff. 1 Bdrm., New carpet, appliances, clean, quiet. $460 a month. ___Call 440-951-3087 Don't let That Shadow Touch Them In Recognition of those who served our country. from The Board of Directors, Lodge Officers, and All Members of the AMERICAN MUTUAL LIFE ASSOCIATION ■/v A i »•■ft t- c* T\ > X' 41S 19424 South Waterloo Road, Cleveland, Ohio 44119 - 325C Phone:216-531-1900 Fax:216-531-8123 Seamstress Wanted Sewing of lettering on athletic apparel. Call 216 289-2254 Remember Those Who Died for Us IVORY CITY PIANO SERVICE Albert J. Koporc, Jr. 446 East 152nd St. Cleveland, OH 44110 216-486-1105 0±LC FUNERAL HOMES “Family Owned & Operated” 21 Years of Continuous Service to your Community 28890 Chardon Road Willoughby Hills 440 944-8400 Stimburys /Accounting Accounting & Income Tax Services 496 E.'200th St. ‘ Euclid, OH 44119. (216)404-0990 Fax \216) 404:0992 , taxtlme@en.com .. 1 n http://stimburysaccountlng-com Enmlhtl to Pratike Seftte tlie'Internal Revenue Service Servicing Indttduals Cfrporaflbns t Smet businesses. DAN COSIC and JOE ZEVNIK Licensed Funeral Directors Tony's... Old World Plaza Barber Shop Haircuts:. 67 v00 664 E. 185 St. - at Abby Ave. and Windward Rci. HOURS: 7:30 a.m. 5:30 p.m. M-F 7:30 a.m. 5:00 p.m. Sat We love the Slovenian feople. We YKCuit tnor^e of them as out customer AMERIŠKA DOMOVINA, MAY 18, AMERIŠKA DOMOVINA, MAY 18, 2006 Reflections on the Life of Conrad Mejac by Conrad P. Mqjac PhD My name is ConracTFeter Mejac and I am now 83 years old. I have been blessed with a long and productive life, and have survived important threats to my life. I have a wonderful wife whom I love very much, very accomplished children with spouses and children whom I also love very much. I am also proud to have been bom a Slovenian. Of even greater importance, however, is that I have had my Catholic faith. This brief history of my life is my gift to my family, and particularly my grandchildren, and potentially greatgrandchildren, whom I may not live to know. Hopefully, those who read it will develop a greater measure of knowledge about me, as well as their Slovenian heritage, that may assist them in some way in their lives. Early History I was born in the village of Savna pec in Slovenia. The Latin and Greek scholar Anton Sovre, was also bom in Savna pec. At the time of my birth Slovenia was a republic of the former country of Yugoslavia. Slovenia became an independent country in 1991. The area in which my village is located was rich in coal, and during his early working years, my father was a miner. After leaving the mines he devoted full time to farming. My family included my parents Peter and Leopoldina (Bajda), two younger brothers, Ciril and Peter, and three younger sisters, Pavla (Potokar), Cirila (Novak), and Zofka (Orožen). My parents have died, however, as I write this all my brothers and sisters are alive. With the exception of Ciril, who lives in Silver Spring, MD, all my siblings, and several nephews and nieces reside in Slovenia. As a grammar school student I traveled eight kilometers (five miles) one way, to the town of Zidani most to the public elementary school to which I was assigned. I was fortunate to attend an academic high school in a large city an hour or so by train to the north, in the city of Maribor. The Slovene term for this type of school was gymnasium. Such schools focused on classical education. While I was there, World War II spread to Yugoslavia. The country was occupied by the German and Italian military, and a demarcation line was drawn within Slovenia that created sectors of respective responsibility. In their sector, which included Maribor, the Ger- schools. As a consequence, I returned home. I was of draft age and I feared that both the Germans, and the indigenous insurgents, the Communist-affiliated Partisans, would seek to enlist me. I fled to the Slovene Capitol city, Ljubljana (lube-li-Yan-a) hoping that I would be able to finish my studies. I received help and support from Catholic Church officials for doing so. The city was in the sector occupied by the Italians, and they were thought to be less cruel than the Germans. After finishing high school, also with support from Church officials, I matriculated to the University of Ljubljana, and studied languages. In about 1944, during my third year at the university, I was awoken at 5 a.m. one morning by Italian military officials, hastily escorted from my room, and placed on a train headed for a concentration camp located in northeastern Italy, near the town of Gonads. I was never informed why those of us on the train had been selected for imprisonment. My presumption is that our connection with the Church and our status as university students marked us as potential dangers to the occupiers. Conditions in the camp were very difficult. Food was very limited and of poor quality, and at times we survived by eating grass that grew in the prison yard, and donations smuggled into the camp by sympathetic local Slovenian farmers. While the camp was within Italy, many people who lived in that area were of Slovenian heritage. After about a year I was removed from the camp and, again without explanation, placed on a train and returned to Ljubljana. During my time in the camp the Germans had assumed control of the former Italian-controlled sector that included Ljubljana. Fearing that university students would be judged a potential threat, the Germans dealt with us accordingly. I fled on foot, initially to Austria, and then to Rome. Italy was under German control, however, Rome was afforded the status of a sanctuary, and life there proceeded much like normal. I sought help from the Jesuits and was given shelter. I located a position with the United Nations food agency and was paid a modest salary. Within a short time of working there I discovered that 90% of the money the agency received for purchase of food was being consumed by administrative costs. I advised my situation, my conscience would not permit me to continue working there. He asked me to think about the matter for a week before arriving at a final decision. I followed his request, but at the end of the week, I resigned. With the help of Jesuit friends, an audience was arranged for me with Pope Pius XII. He offered me a position with the Foreign Department of the Pontifical Aid Commission in Rome. I accepted and, with great personal satisfaction, worked there until 1950. During my time in Rome I continued my university studies of languages and received a doctoral degree. I was able to assist my brother Ciril who had also escaped from Slovenia, to travel to Madrid, Spain, where he resumed university studies. After the Axis was defeated, Yugoslavia came under the control of another group of oppressors, the Communists. Because of my university education and my connections with the Catholic Church, I feared that if I returned to Slovenia, I would be judged a threat to the Communists and targeted for death. The United States recognized the plight of the millions of persons who had been displaced from their homes during World War II, and opened its doors to them. I met the criteria as a displaced person (“DP”) and applied for immigration to America. I was accepted, and in 1950, with my passage paid by the US Government, I prepared to leave Italy. I had saved some money and decided to host a farewell party for my Slovenian friends who lived in Rome. The party consumed all but a small amount of my savings. Life in America When I arrived in New York City, I sought out a Slovenian priest, Father Ambrosia, whose name had been provided to me. He was the pastor of a local parish, and generously offered to provide me room and board. I had previously applied to some universities and was blessed to receive admission and scholarship offers from Yale, Harvard and St. John’s College (New York). As a poor student among wealthy students at Yale or Harvard, I feared I would become a ward of their charity and would carry that stigma throughout my life. Therefore, I chose the offer from St. John’s, and completed masters degrees in both economics and sociology, while also working a full time job. My most noteworthy job was with the large British firm, Standard Marine Insurance. While living in New York City, I met a lovely American-born lady, Mary (“Mimi”) Grill. She lived in the area and was the daughter of Slovene immigrants. We married while I was working for the British insurance firm. I wanted to productively apply my training and knowledge of the Balkans, and concluded that working for the U.S. Government would best permit me to do so. I applied to the US State Department and was accepted for a position as a foreign service officer. While my wife did not wish to spend her life hop scotching around the world, she agreed to the move to Washington, DC. Shortly after arriving for duty, I was invited to transfer to the US Information Agency (USIA), Voice of America (VGA), as a broadcaster with its Slovenian Radio Service. USIA management believed that my knowledge of Slovenia, and the Slovene language would be well suited to this assignment. I accepted the position and spent the next 37 years with that Service. In I960, I was promoted to Chief of the Service, and held that position until my retirement in 1992. As head of the VO A Slovene Radio Service, I and my staff were responsible for producing and broadcasting two daily -programs to Slovenia. The VO A broadcasting antennas were located in the US and in friendly countries in Europe. Our broadcasts were transmitted on a “real time” basis, and received during the morning period before our listeners left for work. (Continued on page 11) Remember all those who died for us from the staff of JAKUBS & SON FUNERAL HOME 936 E. 185 St., Cleveland 531-7770 JAKUBS - DAIMAHER FUNERAL HOME 36000 Lake Shore Blvd., Eastlake 953-4600 GOLDEN RULE Funeral Home -■ j Reflections on the Life of Conrad P. Mejac (Continued from page 10) Throughout the years of my service I began work in late afternoon in order to permit the preparation of scripts that, because of the time difference, were broadcast just before midnight, Washington, DC time. Surprisingly, the Government of Yugoslavia didn’t make a serious effort to jam the broadcasts, and we had a large and appreciative audience, the size of which was estimated by the amount of correspondence we received as well as other measures that were available to us. At the “Voice,” the persons responsible for preparing scripts were under strict orders to provide a balanced picture of the events in America, including content both favorable and unfavorable to this country. For example, in addition to sharing the news of an American walking on the moon, we also described the race riots of the 1960s. In addition to guidance from within the VO A organization, the heads of services attended seminars presented by prominent personalities in the news broadcasting field, in which they provided counsel on fair and balanced reporting. Among the memorable presenters, was the late Edward R. Murrow, whom I greatly admired. After several years with the VO A, and as Cold War tensions eased, officials within and outside the USIA Proposed reductions in the number of countries to which broadcasts were directed, including Slovenia. Based uPon my knowledge of the sentiment for independence that was growing in Slovenia, and my belief that this sentiment needed to be nursed with the aid of the VOA broadcasts, I was ada-n'antly opposed to the proposed reduction, and began a c°unter offensive through my capacity as a private citi-Zen- I communicated with numbers of the House of Representatives and Senate who were of Slovenian-^ttierican heritage, request-*ng their support in warding ? ^ the removal of Slovenian r°m the list of broadcast anguages. I also sought the ssistance of prominent , °venian-American citizens c .the private sector. I re-^eWed considerable support °m both sectors, and was nccessfhi in my efforts to- to^r t*16 initial proposal ® •minate the language. fhe 94,h US Congress re-APOl?ded> and in the USIA °rization Act for Fiscal hour u1976, daiJy one-half W broadcasts to Slovenia in a Mandated. In addition, fiscal Year 1988 Senate amendment to the Foreign Relations Authorization Act sponsored by Senator Howard M. Metzenbaum, the VOA was directed to continue these broadcasts. The reduction proposal resurfaced on other occasions, and I had to remount my counter offensive. Sadly, shortly after I retired, the language was dropped. In addition to my regular duties at the VOA, I was sought out as a consultant by State Department and White House officials on matters pertaining to Slovenia and Yugoslavia, including dealing directly with Presidents Kennedy, Nixon, and Clinton. President Kennedy placed me in a particularly difficult decision situation when he asked me to be a part of the US delegation assisting and hosting an official visit of state by the then President of Yugoslavia, Jože “Tito” Broz. I had great disdain for Tito because of his deep, radical Communist convictions and his related actions. I told President Kennedy that I could not, in good conscience, be a party to treating him as an honored guest to this country. He respected my feelings, and permitted me to function in only a minor role during the visit. As a part of maintaining my knowledge of contemporary life in Slovenia, I made official visits there, traveling on a diplomatic passport. During one of those visits I observed two men who trailed me wherever I went. At the time, the Yugoslav government operated a pervasive secret police, and abductions occurred to Slovene emigres. I complained to the US Ambassador, and he conveyed my complaint to Yugoslav Government officials. They replied that, “Yes,” I was under surveillance; however, it was for my protection. Slovene-Related Activities and Concluding Remarks Outside of my work at the VOA, I was active, along with my wife, in Slovene fraternal, cultural and religious activities. I was a cofounder of the Washington, DC chapter of the American Slovenian Catholic Union (KSKJ); participated in the Eucharistic Congress held in Philadelphia; participated in the group that planned the construction of a Slovenian Chapel in the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, DC; chaired the 1981 Bishop Baraga Days celebration, also in Washington, DC; and finally, was an active supporter of Slovenian cultural activities elsewhere in the country. I feel blessed that I was able to follow my heart and my conscience in devoting my life to both the heritage of my birth, as well as to the country that adopted me, and which I adopted. St. Mary’s Concert On Saturday, May 27, Igor and Ansambel Zlati Zvon-ski will perform in the St. Mary’s (Holmes Ave.) parish hall. Doors open at 6 p.m. There will be food and refreshments available throughout the evening. Donation is $10 per per- A church member asked the preacher if a contribution of $10,000 would get him into heaven. The preacher said “It’s worth a try.’" Have a Peaceful Day on Memorial Day AZMAN MEATS (216) 481*0836 654 E 185,™ Street, Cleveland, OH 44119 son. Everyone welcome. Slovenian Society Home (Recher Hall) Fish Fries 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. Fish, Shrimp, Pork Chops, and Goulash Dinners Cleveland Accounting Service Wishes for a Safe Memorial Weekend 6218 St. Clair Avenue Phone: 881-5158 Great Annuity Rates! 7-year Flexible Annuity 5.50% guaranteed first 12 months or 5-year Deferred Annuity 4.50% guaranteed for 5 years KSKJ 44/ AMERICAN SLOVENIAN CATHOLIC I 1-800-843-5755 ♦ www.kskjlife.com FM BISON PI-KITE 12503 imdison m SUPERMARKET ^member Our UKW006 omo ^ Loved Ones 216 521 4619 ATTENTION WEST SIDE RESlnFUr WE HAVE A LARGE SELECTION OF A VARIETY OF EUROPEAN COUNTRY (SLOVENIA, SERBIA, CROATIA, ROMANIA, HUNGARY BULGARIA, MACEDONIA, BOSNIA, HOLLAND, SWITZERLAND. ETC....) GROCERIES, LUNCH MEAT, 7 VARIETIES OF SARDINES FETA CHEESE, TEA, COFFEE, GREEN COFFEE BEANS, MINERAL WATER (RADENSKA, BORSEL, ST. ANDREW), SOFT DRINKS COOKIES CANDY, CHOCOLATE, JUICE, NOODLES, BEER, AND LARGE ’ SELECTION OF WINE AND MUCH, MUCH MORE. - WE SELL EUROPEAN TELEPHONE CARDS. - MONDAY THRU SATURDAY 8 AM- 8PM SUNAY 9 AM TO 6 PM AMERIŠKA DOMOVINA, MAY 18, AMERIŠKA DOMOVINA, MAY 18, St. Vitus Catholic War Vets Post 1655 Memorial Program Mass, Sunday, May 28, St. Vitus Church, 9:00 a.m. 8:45 a.m. - Raising of Colors, National Anthem, and placing of wreath at the flag pole (in front of St. Vitus School entrance). 8:55 a.m. - Parade to St. Vitus church. 9:00 a.m. - Mass cele-brated by Chaplain, Rev. Andrew Andrews A1 Archacki Joseph C. Arko Joseph T. Arko Louis Arko Thomas Arko Anthony Avsec Edward Avsec Vincent Baškovič, Sr. Vincent Baškovič, Jr. William M. Jerse. Commander: Robert W. Mills Reader / Commentator: Thomas J. Kirk, Joseph S. Baškovič Officer of the Day: Anthony J. Baznik Flag Bearers: Albin Orehek, Daniel Reiger Riflemen: John Kirk, Robert W. Mills, Steven Piorkowski, William Lipoid. Sound - Taps : Robert Mills Jr. Joseph Baznik Msgr. Louis B. Baznik Bernard Bedinghaus Frank Bizjak Rudolph Brancel Michael Brichta Vincent Briscar George Buncic John Burchard Joseph Butler Anthony Champa Anthony Cimperman Anthony Cizel Martin Cullinan Frank Debelak Frank G. Drobnič James V. Drobnič Died in Service Victor A. Drobnič Frank Benigar Robert F. Dulc AUgUSt J31ZC1 Stephen Butala Martin rime Anthony Garbas Robert Butara Alphonse A. Germ Joseph Debelak Maximillian Germ Michael Dime Frank Glavan Albin Dolence Louis J. Godec Frank Drobnik Edward Godic Joseph Dular Frank Godic Anthony Fortuna Stanley Godic Rudolph Franz Harold Golob Albert Grdanc Stanley Golob, Jr. Joseph Jelenič Frank Gorsha Frank Kapla John Gramc Vladimir Kaucic John J. Gramc Stanley Koscak Jerome Grdina Louis Kozar Matt Grdina Edward Kužnik Edward Grum Robert Levee Dell Hanks Steven Markolia Frank A. Hegler Edmund Matjašič Donald Hočevar Raymond Medveš William Hraster John Petrincic Gregory Hribar Joseph Pozelnik Joseph Jakomin Anthony Prime Frank M. Jaksic Frank Razborsek Milan Jaksic Joseph Rozman Richard Jaksic Sylvester Sekne (Vietnam) ThaddeusJanas Vincent Shenk Raymond Jasko Anthony Silc Frank Kasic John Simončič Joseph Kasunic John Speh Frank E. Kern Robert Stare John Kerzisnik William Starič (Korea) John Kirk, Sr. Raymond Stefe Joseph Komat Edward Strauss Albert Koporc Henry Streiner Charles Knuth Albert Tasker Leo Kodramaz Frederick Ubic Frank Komat John Valencie John Kosan Rafael Zonta (Korea) John Koss Laddie Žnidar Anthony Kovach Stanley Zupančič Louis V. Kovacic Anthony Krampel In Memory Frank Kromar Edward Abraham Edward Kuhar Edward Ahlin Elmer Kuhar Leona Alich Albert Kurent Joseph Ambrosic Anthony Kužnik Richard P. Lasko Joseph Laurence Rudolph Laurich FrankJ. Lausche Joseph Leben Edward Ljubi Frank Ljubi Joseph Likozar James P Logar, Mirko Longar Rudolph Lovko Ulrich Lube Adolph Lunder Charles McNeill Herman Marolt Stanley Martinčič Joseph Masar Rudolph Massera Jean McNeil Albert Meglich Herman Meglich Frank Mervar John Milakovich John Miller Florian Mocilnikar Gabriel Mocilnikar Edward Modic Robert Mordas Rudolph Nosse Anthony F. Novak Frank Novak Robert A. Novak John Novosel Louis J. Novsak Frank Oblak Joseph Okom, Sr. Joseph A. Okom John Orehek John Oster, Sr. Anton Palcic Michael Paul Frank Perkovič Frank Pemsek Joseph Peterlin William Plavan George Poprik Daniel Postotnik Victor Prebil Ralph Radel Rudolph Razinger Marion Rebol Robert Reimen Philip Ribarich Anthony Rolik Rudolph Rozman Marcel Rudzinski Charles V. Rumplik Louis Sadler David Samac Charles Saye Robert A. Schmuck Edward Sedlak James F. Skrab William Skrab Ludwig Snyder Victor Somrak John Spech Joseph Spech William Spech Joseph J. Stemad Martin Strauss Anthony Strojin, Jr. Victor Subel William Suhadolnik Frank Svetonovic David J. Telban John Tetkowski William Tofant Edward Tolar Edward Tome John Trinko Elmer Turk James Turk Olga Turk John J. Urbancich Anthony Valencie Edward Valencie John Verbec John Verhovnik Joseph Vesel Clarence Vokac Edward Vertovsnik Peter Weiperth Stanley Winter Joseph Woods Stanley Zabka Anthony Zadnik Anton Zak Theodore Zak Zeno Zak Andrew Zakrajšek Henry Zalar Frank A. Zitko John Žnidaršič Joseph M. Zupančič And for all of the deceased members of the Ladies Auxiliary of St. Vitus Post 1655 of the Catholic War Veterans. I Am the Flag I am a composite being of all the people of America I am the union if you are united. I am one and indivisible if you are undivided. I am strong as the weakest link. I am an emblem of your country. I am a symbol of the shadow of the real. I am a sign pointing to past achievements. I am a promise of greater things for the future. I am what you make me. I am purity if you are pure. I am bravery if you are brave. I am loyalty if you are loyal. I am honor if you are honorable. I am goodness if you are good. I am hope if you are hopeful. I am truth if you are true. I am the Constitution. I am tolerance or intolerance as you force me to be. I am liberty as you understand liberty. I am as a pillar of fire by night, but you must provide the fuel. I march at the head of the column, but you must carry me. I stand for greater and more glorious achievement than can be found in recorded history, but you must be my inspiration. I am the flag. —St. Vitus Catholic War Veterans bulletin OVENIAN ATIONAL OME 6417 ST. CLAIR AVENUE CLEVELAND, OHIO 44103 (216) 361-5115 Wes Salute^ Our Veter cony thiy M&m&rLat Weekend/! from/ The/ 'Board/ of Directory HALL FOR ALL * OCCASIONS * WEDDINGS PARTIES CONCERTS MEETINGS Ameriška Domovina h li Ti j AMERICAN IN SPIRIT FOREIGN IN LANGUAGE ONLY SLOVENIAN MORNING NEWSPAPER AMERIŠKA DOMOVINA (USPS 024100) Thursday, May 11, 2006 - vesti iz SLOVENIJE - Iz Clevelanda in okolice Prva seja novega partnerskega sveta - Usklajen seznani zakonskih predlogov V začetku preteklega tedna so se podpisniki pobude “Partnerstvo za razvoj” sešli na prvi seji partnerskega sveta, ki je v sporazumu določen kot osrednje telo partnerstva. Pobudnik partnerstva in predsednik vlade Janez Janša je po seji dejal, so na sestanku uskladili seznam več kot 50 zakonskih predlogov, o katerih se bodo usklajevali, med njimi pa bo tudi sedem zakonov, ki jih je vlada sicer že potrdila, vendar v državnem zboru še niso bili sprejeti. Za te zakone so v Socialdemokratski stranki (tj. Borut Pahotr) na sestanku predlagali, naj jih vlada umakne iz parlamentarnega postopka, a so se na koncu dogovorili, da sicer ostanejo v postopku, vendar se z njihovo obravnavo na matičnih delovnih telesih počaka. Janša je sestanek označil kot izredno koristen in s tem zavrnil pomisleke nekaterih partnerskih strank (vse stranke sicer sodelujejo z izjemo LDS), ki so v dejstvu, da je sestanek predlagal predsednik SD Borut Pahor, videli Pahorjevo željo, da prevzame pobudo v partnerstvu. Proces privatizacije v Sloveniji bo vlada pospešila, ohranila v podjetjih pa vpliv V začetku preteklega tedna se je predsednik vlade Janez Janša sestal z vrhom koalicije, predsedniki strank in vodji poslanskih skupin koalicijskih strank. Pogovarjali so se o privatizaciji gospodarskih družb v državni lasti. Seznanili so se s konceptom lastninjenja Nove Kreditne banke Maribor (NKBM) in Telekoma Slovenije in se strinjali s tem, da bo vlada predvidoma na prihodnjih dveh sejah obravnavala koncepta lastninjenja obeh družb prednostno. Vlada bo pri umiku države iz gospodarstva upoštevala formulo, po kateri država obdrži četrtinski delež plus eno delnico, kar je premier Janša pojasnil takole: “Tako bo vlada ohranila vpliv na strateške odločitve, poslovne odločitve pa bo prepustila večinskim lastnikom. Na ta način bo po mojem mnenju zagotovljena primerna kombinacija med zavarovanjem t. i. nacionalnega interesa in ciljem, da so ta podjetja čim uspešnejša na trgu.” Pred tem sestankom je gospodarski kolegij pri predsedniku vlade obravnaval še zadnja dva predloga privatizacije pomembnejših podjetij v državni lasti. Gre za dokončanje lastninjenja Zavarovalnice Triglav in predlog skupine za pripravo koncepta in časovnega načrta za pregleden in postopen umik Kapitalske družbe in Slovenske odškodninske družbe iz aktivnega lastniškega upravljanja v podjetjih. Slovenski železarji uspešni Slovenska industrija jekla (SIJ), v kateri je zaposlenih nekaj več kot tri tisoč ljudi, je v letu 2005 poslovala izredno dobro. Pri-hodni od prodaje so se od leta 2004 povečali za 23%. Obe metalurški družbi (Acroni Jesenice in Metal Ravne) sta v letu 2005 proizvedli 441.193 ton litega jekla, kar je za odstotek več kot leto prej. Za eno odstotno točko se je povečal tudi delež izvoza, ki predstavlja 71% celotne prodaje. SIJ je še vedno v 80-odstotni državni lasti, družbe pa bodo še letos, predvidoma junija ali septembra, objavile razpis za nakup 55-odstotnega državnega deleža. Prihajajoča zamenjava - Kot kaže bo mesto načelnika generalštaba Slovenske vojske zapustil (na lastno željo) Ladislav Lipič. Postal naj bi veleposlanik na Madžarskem. GRADITEV VZPENJAČE NA LJUBLJANSKI GRAD SE KONČUJE - Fotografija kaže kraj nove vzpenjače, ki bo peljala turiste neposredno na Ljubljanski grad. Projekt je od vsega pričetka spere” !" tn predvsem v vrstah ljubljanskega mestnega sveta. Sprva je bila cena gradnje okrog pol milijarde tolarjev, kot kaže bo pa stala dobro poldrugo milijardo. Mnogi kritiki dvomijo v smiselnost in sploh rentabilnost projekt”: Dvigalec je švicarski Garavent, ki ima precej težav z geološko zgradbo grajskega griča. Po zadigih zagotovilih naj bi bila graditev končana to poletje, torej nedolgo pred lokalnimi volitva-mi- Več kot jasno je, da bo projekt eden osrednjih predmetov letošnjih ljubljanskih vo-lltev, morda najbolj glasni nasprotnik vzpenjače je mestni svetnik Dimitrij Kovačič iz vest stranke SDS. Ljubljana je sicer v rokah levičarskih strank - vsaj do jeseni. Materinska proslava— Slovenska šola pri M. Vnebovzeti vabi to nedeljo na Materinsko proslavo ob lih dop. v župnijski dvorani. Po programu bodo na čast materam, očetje učencev šole postregli z zajtrkom. Vsi ste lepo vabljeni. Molitve— Slovesnost Marije Pomagaj z Brezij bo v torek, 23. maja, pri Lurški Materi božji na Chardon Rd. ob 7.30 zv. Molitve bo vodil Rev. Janez Kumše. Spominska sv. maša— Društvo SPB vabi v nedeljo, 28. maja, ob 12. uri opoldne, na spominsko sv. mašo pri Lurški Materi božji v Euclidu. Mašo bo daroval Rev. Pavel Krajnik. Vabljene so narodne noše. Gl. dopis na str. 14. Pop. ob 3.30 bodo skupne molitve za vse pokojne na pokopališču Vernih duš pri Chardonu, Ohio. Novi grobovi Jože Sojer Umrl je 86 let stari Jože Sojer iz Euclida, rojen v Podgorici, Slovenija, sin Marije (r. Kušar) in Janeza Sojer, brat Ivana, Franceta, Jerneja, Mici in Ančke (vsi že pok.), stric Marije Lovše in več drugih (vsi v Sloveniji), član Kluba upokojencev Slovenske pristave, Tabora, Društva Presv. Srca Jezusovega št. 172 KSKJ in Balincarskega kluba Slovenske pristave. Pogreb bo jutri, v petek, v oskrbi Cosi-cevega zavoda na 28890 Chardon Rd. s sv. mašo v cerkvi sv. Vida dop. ob 10. uri. Pokop bo v Sloveniji. Darovi v pokojnikov spomin St. Vitus Church Building Fund, 6019 Lausche Ave., Cleveland, OH 44103 bodo s hvaležnostjo sprejeti. Maria Mlinar Umrla je 88 let stara Maria Mlinar, hčerka Lojzeta in Katarine (oba pok.), sestra Cecilije Novak (Slov.) ter že pok. Katarine, Franca, Janeza, Jerneja in Mary Ann, teta. Pogreb je bil 16. maja v oskrbi Želetovega zavoda s sv. mašo v cerkvi Marije Vnebovzete s pokopom na Vernih duš pokopališču. Družina bo hvaležna za darove v pokojničin spomin za The Catholic Mission Aid Inc., 17826 Brian Ave., Cleveland, OH 44119. (DALJE na str. 16) Letna seja— Jutri, 19. maja, ima Slovenske dom za ostarele letno sejo, tokrat v Laurichevi sobi v domu na 18621 Neff Rd. Registracija se prične ob 6h zv., seja pa ob 6.30. Dr. Zvone Žigon— Generalni konzul RSlove-nije v Clevelandu dr. Zvone Žigon bo govoril o današnji Sloveniji v torek, 23. maja, zvečer ob 7. uri v Slovenskem društvenem domu na 20713 Recher Ave. v Euclidu. Večer sponzorira Slovenian American Heritage Foundation. Vstopnine ni in je javnost vabljena. Upokojenci Slov. pristave— Klub upokojencev Slovenske pristave ima sestanek v sredo, 31. maja, popoldne ob 1.30, na Pristavi. Članstvo lepo vabljeno. Krofi in pecivo— Oltarno društvo župnije Marjie Vnebovzete bo imelo prodajo krofov v petek, 26. maja, popoldne ter naslednji dan, soboto, dopoldne, to v župnijski dvorani. Pridite in pokupite! Zopet čez dva tedna— Naslednja številka našega lista bo izšla v dveh tednih, torej v četrtek, 1. junija. Otvoritev Slov. pristave— Leto je naokoli in spet bo Pristava zaživela. Gradnja dvorane je v polnem zagonu in v nedeljo, 4. junija, si boste lahko to ogledali na lastne oči. Začetek bo s sv. mašo ob 12.30 pop., po maši bo kosilo, za rezervacije pokličite Elizabeto Žalik na 440-537-1941. Po tretji uri pop. bo za ples in zabavo igral ansambel Veseli godci. Člani in prijatelji Pristave ste prisrčno vabljeni! Koncert in ples— V soboto, 27. maja, bo v župnijski dvorani pri Mariji Vnebovzeti nastopil ansambel Igor in Zlati zvoki. Vrata bodo odprta od 6h zv. dalje. Vstopnina je $10 za odrasle in $5 za otroke, vstopnice dobite v župnišču. Odbor— Štajerski-Prekmurski klub ima sledeči odbor: predsednica, Mimi Kozina-Cupar; podpreds., John Kozina; blagajnik, John Cupar; tajnica, Majda Zorman. Odbor: To-nica Simičak, Martina Simi-čak, Mimi Kozina, Rezka Zelko, Kristina Ferlinc, Ančka Leben, Fr” n k Fujs, Joe Ramšak, Paul Skale Karl Hozjan, Majda Rožič. Frank Šega: SPOMINSKI DAN: CLEVELAND, O. - Mesec maj Je mesec, ko se nam pokaže narava v vsej novi naravni življenjski lepoti, ki je nam zemljanom v dar od našega Stvarnika v veselje in užitek. Mesec maj je posvečen naši nebeški Materi, kakor tudi vsem materam, ki so z ljubeznijo, bolečino in odpovedjo darovale narodu novo življenje. Zato hvaležen poklon, čast in hvala vsem našim materam za dar življenja in ljubezni, ki smo je bili deležni v življenju. In še posebej lep spomin in poklon našim materam mučenicam, ki so poleg izgube svojih najdražjih družinskih članov morale prestajati zaporne kazni in zaničevanja zmagovalcev komunistov. Zato se z globoko hvaležnostjo v srcu na Spominski dan še posebej -in poklonimo spominu vsem našim pokojnim materam za vso dobroto in ljubezen, ki smo je bili deležni v življenju. Vsa čast in slava Tebi, slovenska mati! Amen! O Spominski dan, ki je letos 29. maja, je uradno proglašen narodni praznik in Je dan, ko se širom Združenih držav Amerike s hvaležnostjo in velikim spoštovanjem spominjamo naših rajnih in še posebej naših padlih vojakov, ki so za svobodo in dostojanstvo človeka darovali največ, kar človek premore, to je svoja mlada življenja. In svoja življenja so darovali v veliki meri za svobodo tujih narodov, za kar je v današnjem času na splošno vredno bore malo hvaležnosti. Joseph L. FORTUNA lS3llšii§a Moderni pogrebni zavod. I Ambulanca na. razpolago J podnevi in ponoči. CENE NIZKE #0 VAŠI ŽELJI! Veličina ameriškega naroda je v tem, da je bil in je še vedno pripravljen na žrtve, da pribori svobodo zatiranim in to za visoko ceno tako v človeških žrtvah kakor v materialnih. Zato globok in hvaležen poklon, čast in slava Tebi, ameriški vojak! Bog blagoslovi Ameriko z blagostanjem, da bi tudi v bodoče imela odprto srce za zatiranega človeka. Slovenski Spominski dan Kot je že tradicija od 50ih let, se slovenski rojaki pod pokroviteljstvom DSPB spominjamo naših dragih rajnih rojakov, ki so pod zločinsko roko lastnih rojakov komunistov izgubili svoja življenja - in to samo zato, ker so v svojem moralnem, narodnem in verskem prepričanju odklanjali popolnoma zgrešeno, narodu tujo, lažno kriminalno in veri nasprotno ideologijo. Požig, rop, umor - to je bilo geslo komunistične partije in njihove vrednote, po katerih so s terorjem prišli do oblasti in tako zasužnjili za 45 let slovenski narod. Če se samo za trenutek zamislimo v zločin, ki ga je napravila komunistična partija slovenskemu narodu, se mora človek zgrožiti nad obsegom zločina in nepopravljivo narodno škodo, ko je toliko deset tisočev najboljših rodoljubov rojakov in talentov, ki je bil velik narodni kapital, moralo po tolikem trpljenju in mučenju umreti po morilcih komunistih širom naše nekdanje domovine. Za nas politične emigrante je žaljivo in boleče, da še po 15 letih "demokratične", samostojne Slovenije niso vladajoči našli v sebi toliko poštenja, da bi preklicali lažne obsodbe rojakov protikomunistov, med katere prav gotovo spada ljubljanski škof Gregorij Rožman, človek, ki je vše svoje življenje posvetil Prijatel’s Pharmacy St. Clair & E. 68 St. 361-4212 IZDAJAMO TUDI ZDRAVILA ZA RAČUN POMOČI , dftŽAVE OHIO - AID QDR The aged presciptions Bogu in svojemu narodu, pa je uradno še vedno kot številni drugi rodoljubi - zločinec. O Vseh žrtev komunizma, nacizma in fašizma se bomo slovenski rojaki z velikim spoštovanjem spomnili pri spominski sv. maši v nedeljo, 28. maja, ob 12. uri opoldne, ki jo bo daroval kot že dolgo v preteklosti naš prijatelj Rev. dr. Pavel Krajnik, pri Lurški Materi božji na Chardon Rd. v Euclidu, Ohio. Odbor društva lepo vabi rojake, da se nam pridružite pri tej spominski sv. maši, da se tako skupaj poklonimo tisočem naših mučencev bratom in sestram našega naroda, ki jih ne smemo, če smo kulturni narod, nikoli pozabiti. Kot kristjani moramo več kot tragični zločin "genocida” nad slovenskim narodom “bratom” komunistom po Kristusovem naročilu odpustiti, pozabiti pa nikoli. Lepo vabimo narodne noše, ki zelo lepo in veličastno povzdignejo našo spominsko svečanost. Lepo vabljeni vsi rojaki, da se s spoštovanjem poklonimo spominu nedolžnih žrtev komunizma, nacizma in fašizma. Še to: Popoldan, prav tako v nedeljo, 28. maja, ob 3.30 pop., bodo -kot je že tradicija - na pokopališču Vernih duš na Chardonu molitve za naše rajne. Vsi lepo vab-ljeni! Za odbor DSPB. Frank Šega Cleveland Public Radio WCPN 90.3 Frt Tony Ovsenik: 31731 Miller Ave. Willoughby Hills, Ohio 44092 Phone: 1-440-944-2538 e-mail: tony.ovsenik@sbcglobal.net /0fx Saturdays 9-I0pm CONTRIBUTOR TO: RADIO OCNJISCE-LJUBLjANA PRIMER MITJA RIBIČIČ ... Hudodelstvo nad civilisti Mitja Ribičič ni več ovaden zaradi genocida, ampak zaradi hudodelstva nad civilnim prebivalstvom Ljubljana - (Demokracija, 4. maj 2006) - V primeru Mitje Ribičiča Je končno prišlo do napredka. Naj spomnimo. da so lani zdaj 87-letnega nekdanjega visokega komunističnega funkcionarja ovadili kot krivca za genocid ob koncu druge svetovne vojne. Ribičič je bil v tistem času visok oficir Ozne za Slovenijo, komunistične politične policije torej. Tožilstvo mu očita, da Je sodeloval v zunajsodnih pobojih političnih nasprotnikov komunizma pod pavšalno oznako okupatorjevih sodelavcev. Nekateri so sicer res sodelovali z okupatorji, nekateri pa ne, skoraj nihče od pobitih ni bil deležen sodne obravnave, pobiti pa so bili na različnih skritih lokacijah po Sloveniji. Ves čas obstoja komunističnega režima se je o teh pobojih le šepetalo in tudi po spremembi oblasti se ni kaj bistveno spremenilo. O morilcih se v glavnem govori le v skupini, torej oznovci, partizani komunisti in podobno, ni pa konkretnih imen, kdo je vodil ta dejanja ali sodeloval pri njih. Mitja Ribičič je torej eden redkih, ki so bili do sedaj ovadeni, a kar leto dni je trajalo, da so se zadeve premaknile. Del strokovne javnosti tudi opozarja, da je kategorija genocid v kazenski zakonik prišla šele leta 1948, ko so se poboji že zgodili. Morda je tudi zato preiskovalni odsek ljubljanskega okrožnega sodišča že dvakrat zavrnil zahtevo vrhovnega tožilca o uvedbi preiskave. Pred nedavnim pa je tožilstvo vložilo zahtevo po preiskavi hudodelstva na civilnim prebivalstvom, ki prav tako ne zastara, bilo pa je omenjeno kot kaznivo dejanje v času, ko so potekali poboji. Očitno pa je, da se bo primer Ribičič še dolgo vlekel. B. S. Komentar ... “Domobranci, kleriki in ostali izdajalci” Ljubljana (Družina, 7. maja 2006) - Nedanti praznik, dan upora proti okupatorju, je znova dodobra razburkal vode slovenske sedanjosti in (ideološkega) razumevanja preteklosti. Skozi različna sita in cedila se je presejalo in cedilo besede teh in onih govornikov ter sodnikov o tem, kdo na zgodovinska dejstva gleda pravoverno) in kdo ne. Znova so, kot v dobrih starih časih, ko Je bilo vsem vse Jasno, v visokih tonih zvenele besede o narodnih izdajalcih - vse to predvsem kot odgovor % ton^Mdodies from Beautiful Slovenia Slovenian Radio Family ED ivuCJAC RDC Pro-am Director WCSB 89.3 FM RADIO hours: Sunday 9-10 am Wednesday 6-7 pm 2405 Somrack Drive Willoughby Hills, OH 44094 440-953-1709 tei/bw web: www.wcsb.org na poskuse sedanjega državnega vrha, da bi na preteklost vendarle pogledali drugače, kotso na veke vekov želeli varuhi pridobitev revolucije. V mislih imamo govor predsednika državnega zbora dr. Franceta Cuk-Jatija, ki Je pri osrednji proslavi ob dnevu upora na Nanosu med drugih dejal, moramo pri obravnavi uporov “ločiti zrnje od plevel”, kajti šele P°' tem bodo upori slovenskega naroda “zablesteli v svojem prvinsko nesebičnem domoljubje". Ni namreč “večje 10 bolj boleče krivice, kot je ta, če nekomu, ki Je v svojih najbolj sveti Uu' bežni do domovine tvegal in žrtvoval življenje, poC*' tikamo najbolj zavržene molitve. Če torej tisočim fantom in dekletom tamo, da so šli v parti' zane zato, da bi s krvavo revoluciio zmagal ko (DALJE na str. 15) Domobranci, kleriki in ostali izdajalci” (NADALJEVANJE s str. 14) munističnl teror. Ali če vaškim stražam očitamo, da so prijele za puško zato, da bi zmagal naci-fašizem, za katerega se je že takrat vedelo, da hoče izruvati slovenstvo lz te dežele pod Triglavom". Tako dr. Cukjati. Stališče, zaradi katerega je marsikaterega nekdanjega upornika na pravi strani žalila rdečica jeze in je bila proti prvemu možu parlamenta sproženih cela serija besednih rafalov, kamor lahko mirno uvrstimo tudi govor Janeza Stanovnika, predsednika ZZB NOB, pri osrednji borčevski proslavi ob dnevu upora v Ljubljani, ko je med drugim dejal (navajamo po STA), da “se dejstva polpretekle slovenske zgodovine potvarjajo oz. lažejo in se postavlja takšna scenografija, kakršno si današnja politika želi". ... Stanovnik se je dotaknil tudi domobrancev, klerikov In c talih izdajalcev, ki se niso obotavljali, da so Vstali proti slovenskim bratom'. Omenil je tudi škofa Rožmana, ki Je 'v čast fašistični zmagi nad Slovenijo bral svečano mašo, kateri so prisostvovali vsi italijanski generali’." Da ne bomo le na načelni ravni sodili o (neopravičenosti tovrstne ka-nonade, ki je znova postavila v ospredje vprašanje t. i. medvojne kolaboracije, se raje podajmo na raven konkretnih življenjskih zgodb in skušajmo iz njih potegniti kakšno modrost tudi za današnji čas. Ob robu pogovora z lazaristom Antonom Pustom - doma je iz Mirne Peči na Dolenjskem - o letošnjih šmarnicah, ki nosijo pomenljiv naslov Kraljica mučencev, posvečene pa so slovenskim mučencem 20. stoletja, resničnim upornikom proti zlu katere koli politične ali ideološke barve torej, je beseda nanesla prav na pojem kolaboracije. In kakšen je bil sogovornikov odgovor? “O kolaboraciji imam osebne izkušnje in še pridobljene podatke. Pri nas je bilo že od začetka italijanske okupacije, še preden so se formirale protikomunistične skupine, sodelovanje med Italijan in komunisti. V mojo rojstno vas so prišli v juniju 1942 trije aktivisti, komunisti. Dve so domačini poznali. Že pred vojno se je eden 'šolal' v Rusiji, da bo še drugod širil komunistično revolucijo. Zbrali so fante in može in jih nagovarjali za ustanovitev partizanske čete Globodol. Odločno so odklonili sodelovanje s komunisti. Razšli so se s hudo grožnjo. Naslednje dni so vas napadli italijanski bombniki, ki so metali mine na vas in ljudi, ki so delali na polju, ne pa na partizanske baze, ki so bile v okolici. Ob tem so bili ubiti tudi moji starši. Ljudje so takoj sklepali, da se je s tem uresničila grožnja treh aktivistov. Čez dva meseca je v avgustu vaški zaščitnik obveščal od hiše do hiše, da pridejo drugi dan italijanski vojaki in da naj ostanemo mirni, tudi možje in fantje naj jih mirno pričakajo. Italijani so res prišli, zbrali vse može in fante in jih odpeljali. Največ so jih poslali v internacijo na Rab, nekaj fantov se je pridružilo legionarjem (vaški straži), ki se Je takrat formirala v Stopičah, nekaj mož pa so po zvezah izpustili. Ljudje so vedeli, kdo je v ozadju vsega tega. To pa potrjuje tudi general Stane Potočar v svojih spominih Zvestoba. Italijanski komandant, rekli smo mu 'marešalo', je stanoval v Mirni Peči pri Potočarjevih, trije sinovi so bili pri partizanih. Med drugim je zapisal, da so partizani vse vedeli, kaj nameravajo storiti Italijani, pa tudi oni so dajali Italijanom svoje podatke. Stanetova sestra je redno prenašala medsebojna obvestila. Izogibali so se medsebojnih spopadov. Komandant italijanske posadke Isonzo v Novem mestu Cerutti je bil velik pristaš partizanov. Dostavljal Jim je orožje. Po razpadu Italije pa je izročil vso vojno opremo partizanom. Lado Ambrožič - Novljan v spominih Po čem je zmaga (str. 52) opisuje, kako je Cerutti reševal njegovo ženo Mico, ki so Jo ujeli Itali- jani. Podobnih dogodkov je bilo še več." Da, podobnih dogodkov je bilo še vec - vsekakor toliko, da na preteklost res ne moramo gledati črnobelo (ali pa rdeče-čr-no, kot bi nas nekateri radi prepričali). Nujno moramo na stvari pogledati iz drugačnega, pravičnejšega zornega kota. Kajti tu vendarle ne govorimo o zgolj načelnih vprašanjih, temveč znova čisto življenjskih. Kaj imamo v mislih? Ljubljana - Stranka Slovenska skupnost (SSk) je na volitvah nastopila kot del zmagovite koalicije v navezi z Marjetico oziroma Oljko, na lokalni ravni pa je marsikateri Slovenec nastopil še v drugih strankah levega političnega spektra. Pri tem je treba opozoriti na sorazmerno nazadovanje leve sredine v FJK, saj Je na volitvah v obe zbornici zbrala le okoli 44 odstotkov glasov. Posledično je levosredinska koalicija zbrala tri senatorje od sedmih in šest predstavnikov v poslanski zbornici od tri- V LJUBEČ SPOMIN 4. OBLETNICE SMRTI naše drage mame, stare mame, prastare mame PEPCA TOMINC umrla 17. m$ya 2002 Štiri leta so le minila, odkar Tebe več med nami ni. Le pri Bogu mimo zdaj poiivqj in sveti raj ulivaj. Tvoji žalujoči otroci: Vrank (pok.), Martin, Maijanca Domanko, Ani Vidmar, Cilka Urbas in Jože z družinami ter sorodniki v Ameriki in Sloveniji Pustovi so na pristojno ministrstvo večkrat naslovili vlogo za priznanje njihovi družini, da so vojne sirote. Dobivali so negativne odgovore, in sicer z obrazložitvijo, da oče ni bil partizan. Kaj že zgodovinar Jože Dežman pravi o povojnem partijskem rasizmu? In potem bodo še trdili, da njegove ugotovitve niso resnične?! Da, dan upora Je treba praznovati. Kajti neresnici se Je treba upreti. Bogomir Štefanič ml. najstih. Med poslance se je uvrstil tudi Slovenec Miloš Budin, dosedanji senator v vrstah Levih demokratov, ki Je kandidiral na listi Oljke in bil celo njen nosilec. Njegova izvolitev je bila tako že pred odhodom na volišča v bistvu zagotovljena. Napredek v Gorici Precej bolj izenačeno je bilo na upravnih volitvah za nekatere pokrajinske in občinske svete, kjer je do končnih odločitev prišlo dva tedna po parlamentarnih volitvah, saj Je bil potreben drugi krog. Ta je potekal 23. in 24. aprila, za slovenske kandidate pa je bil dokaj uspešen. V Trstu je županstvo sicer ohranil desnosredinski kandidat Giuseppe Dipiazza, ki se je v drugem krogu spopadel s kandidatom leve sredine Ettorejem Rosatom in zbral 51 odstotkov glasov proti 49 (v prvem krogu so razliko med njima šteli v desetinkah odstotka. V 40-članskem občinskem svetu pa bodo sedeli trije Slovenci, ki so kandidirali na listah Slovenske skupnosti. Levih demokratov in Komunistične prenove. Nezanemarljivo pomoč pri zmagi desnice v deželnem glavnem mestu je prispeval dosedanji predsednik vlade Silvio Berlusconi, (DALJE na str. 16) V ljubeč in nepozabni spomin ob tretji obletnici smrti, odkar nas je zapustil naš predragi mož, ata in stari ata France Dejak in odšel k Vsemogočnemu 1. junija 2003. Tri leta so ie minila, °dkar Te več med nami ni, vendar Tvoj veseli nasmeh nas spremlja po vseh naših poteh. Srce Te kliče in v duhu gleda tvoj obraz, vedno Te bomo ljubili kot si Ti ljubil nas. Ljubil si dom in družino, vse ljudi in domovino. Tvoji žalujoči: Žena: METKA Sinovi: FRANK EDI TONI Hčerka: KRISTINA z DRUŽINAMI V Torontu: Brata: NACE LOJZE Sestra: ANGELCA Ostalo sorodstvo v Canadi in Sloveniji. 1. junij 2006 Slovenska manjšina v Italiji - Zmerni optimizem za Slovence Minule državnozborske In upravne volitve v Italiji so poleg zmage Prodijeve levosredinske koalicije na državni ravni prinesle pomemben uspeh tud! političnemu predstavništvu slovenske skupnost! v Furlaniji - Julijski krajini. piše MITJA VOLČANŠEK (Demokracija, 4. maj2006) Misijonska srečanja in pomenki 1585. Gotovo ste že opazili v koledarju prireditev, da bo 9. julija, na drugo nedeljo meseca, na Slovenski pristavi piknik Misijonske Znamkarske Akcije. Ko boste načrtovali vaše počitnice, pomislite na ta datum, da ne boste zamudili lepe prilike, pomagati našim misijonarjem, ki se trudijo po različnih krajih zboljšati življenjske razmere in prinesti veselo oznanilo o božjem kraljestvu. Prejela sem listič “Iz ^sončne Zambije”, v katerem je opisano življenje p. Stanka Rozmana, ki deluje v Malaviju, sosedni državi. Citiram odlomke: “Dragi prijatelji in dobrotniki!” Prav lep pozdrav iz afriškega juga. Vsak dan nas Bog razveseljuje z dežjem, ki namaka suho zemljo. Zgleda, da bo letos boljši pridelek koruze, oreška, zelenjave, kar domačini gojijo okrog svojih bornih hišic. V januarju in februarju je menda kar nekaj ljudi umrlo radi lakote, ker je bil lanski pridelek pičel. Smo v postu, a naš post v je precej drugačen od onih v razvitih deželah. Na podružnicah imamo postna bogoslužja in voditelji nas povabijo na kosilo, ki je običajno hlebček koruzne polente, malo kuhane zelenjave in paradižnikova omaka, za boljši okus. Tako je tudi ob nedeljah in prraznikih. Postni čas nas vzgaja in pripravlja na Jezusove dneve trpljenja, smrti in Vstajenja, kar je za verne ljudi dan veselja, zmage nad grehom in smrtjo. Veseli bomo zapeli vstalemu Zveličarju. Tu ne bo potic, pirhov in šunke, bo pa iskrena in globoka vera, ki ljudem daje veselje do življenja na tem od bolezni, lakote večkrat ranjenem svetu. Veseli pa bomo, če bo prišla kapljica drobtinice dobrote, ki jo radi delite z revnimi in ubogimi. Vsem želimo iz srca prav veliko veselje v tem velikonočnem času in se obenem zahvaljujemo za vašo dobroto... Ko je p. Stanko lansko leto šel na obisk k svoji mami, ki je praznovala visok življenjski jubilej, se je hitro zvedelo o njegovi poti in so ga vabili na več krajev, da je poročal o svojem delu. Bil je tudi v Misijonski pisarni in tam so sklenili, da bodo otroci v Trikraljevski akciji potrkali na dobra srca, da bi pomagali popraviti in zgraditi nekaj šol za malavijske otroke, kar je uspelo. Iz tega bodo obnovili 12 šol, ki so zelo preproste. Nekaj kolov je zabitih v zemljo, pokrite pa so s travo, ki zraste do 2 m visoko. Ko je vse to povedal p. Stanko na pravem kraju, je dobil podar- jeno precej zemlje okrog župnišča, da bo lahko zgradil novo stavbo. Potrebujejo tudi sestre, da bi pomagale. Pripravljene so priti iz Blatanje Služabnice Device Marije. Pričeli so z gradnjo njihovega doma. To je šele na začetku in bo p. Stanko potreboval še veliko pomoči, da bo dom dokončal, ker bo tudi "šola za najbolj revne otroke in sirote brez staršev. Dežela trpi tudi zaradi pomanjkanje pitne vode, kar so zvedeli njegovi sobratje in sklenili uvesti maraton v Ljubljani. da so obnovili že 12 vodnjakov po njegovi župniji. Tako je p. Stanko vesel tudi športnega vključevanja za pomoč potrebnim. V preteklem letu je polovica prebivalstva stradala tudi, ker je denar zgubil svojo veljavo. Deževje je pomagalo. Nek župljan v sušnem kraju je šel na svojo njivo, pokleknil in iskreno molil in prosil božje pomoči. Bil je uslišan. Ko se je vračal proti domu, je pričelo deževati in njegovo polje je dobro obrodilo. Prišel je p. Stankotu in ga prosil, naj gre z njim na polje, da ga bo blagoslovil v zahvalo za dež. Mnogi drugi niso bili uslišani. V tem času je prišla pomoč tudi iz Kanade, od koder je bil poslan kontejner poln hrane in obleke. Misijonar je vse lepo razdelil na podružnicah z velikim veseljem, kar so vsi hvaležno sprejeli. Ko je potreba najhujša, je božja pomoč najbližja! P. Stanko Rozman” P. Stanko ima še enega sobrata, ki mu pomaga pri delu v njegovi župniji. Daj obema ljubi Bog zdravja, da bosta kos vsem nalogam, ki prihajajo naproti, in veliko blagoslova pri vsem delu, to je želja nas vseh, ki se trudimo, zbiramo in molimo za uspehe na misijonskem polju. Prav lep misijonski pozdrav od vseh sodelujočih in Marice Lavriše 1004 Dillewood Rd. Cleveland, OH 44119 Zmerni optimizem (nadaljevanje s str. 15) ki je le nekaj dni pred vnovičnim odhodom na volišča v Trstu imel svoj prvi javni nastop po porazu 10. aprila. V tržaški in goriški pokrajini pa sta v drugem krogu zmagala kandidata leve sredine. V Trstu je Maria Teresa Bassa Po-ropat s slabimi 51 odstotki prehitela -desnega kandidata Fabia Scocci-marra, kar je bilo manjše presenečenje. Levosredinski Enrico Gherghetta pa je v Gorici še povečal prednost iz prvega kroga pred Leonardom Zapala’jem in dosegel dobrih 58 odstotkov. Pomemben preboj so Slovenci, čeprav pod okriljem različnih strank, dosegli v tržaškem pokrajinskem svetu. Izmed 24 članov bo osem slovenskih svetnikov; štirje iz Levih demokratov, dva iz stranke Komunistična prenova, eden iz Stranke italijanskih komunistov in eden iz SSk. Med 24 goriškimi pokrajinskimi svetniki pa bosta le dva Slovenca s skupne liste Oljke in SSk oziroma iz zelenih. Razpolovljena zmaga S tem izrazom je Igor Gabrovec, tržaški pokrajinski predsednik Slovenske kulturno-gospodarske zbornice, komentiral volilni izid, pri tem pa v skladu s stališčem večine slovenskih združenj kot pravilno označil izbiro levosredinske koalicije kot strateške partnerice slovenske skupnosti. Vsaj do neke mere so slovenski volivci ravnali discipliniramo in glasovali za levo sredino, ki sta jo podprli tudi manjšinski listi na Južnem Tirolskem in v Dolini Aoste. Po eni strani lahko razumemo skepso Slovencev do desnosredinske opcije. Po njeno vladavino je bilo namreč udeja-janje leta 2001 sprejetega globalnega zaščitnega zakona dvakrat ustavljeno, nazadnje letos marca. To se je zgodilo, ker je Rim paritetnemu odboru vrnil v vnovično presojo seznam 32 občin, kjer naj bi se zakon izvajal, z obrazložitvijo, da je treba znova preveriti tradicionalno navzočnost slovenske manjšine v nekaterih občinah. Velja pa opozoriti, da zmaga levosredinske koalicije še ne pomeni, da se bo stanje čez noč spremenilo, saj se to ni zgodilo niti v času petletne vladavine levosredinske koalicije med letoma 1996 in 2001. Danih Je bilo veliko obljub, zdaj pa lahko le upamo, da ni šlo za kupovanje slovenskih glasov v zameno za lepotne, a nevsebinske popravke. ■ NOVI GROBOVI (NADALJEVANJE s str. 13) Anthony D. Luzar Umrl je 92 let stari Anthony D. Luzar, mož Rose, roj. Bradach, oče Roberta in Anthonyja, 3-krat stari oče, 1-krat prastari oče, brat Ann Doles, Ronnie Gerjavec, Franka, Mary Eckhart ter že pok. Jenny Paik, Josephine Brodnik, Josepha in Johna. Pogreb je bil 15. maja v oskrbi Želetovega zavoda s sv. mašo v cerkvi Marije Vnebov-zete in pokopom na Vernih duš pokopališču. Družina bo hvaležna za darove v pokojnikov spomin St. Mary Church, 15519 Holmes Ave., Cleveland, OH 44110 ali pa The Hospice of the Western Reserve, 300 E. 185 St., Cleveland, OH 44119. Agnes Shacha Umrla je 92 let stara Agnes Shacha, rojena Kotnik, vdova po Georgeu in po Rudolphu Gulič, mati Roberta Gulič, 3-krat stara mati, 4-krat prastara mati, sestra Mary Wolecki in že pok. Andrewa. Pogreb je bil 12. maja v oskrbi Želetovega zavoda s sv. mašo v cerkvi Marije Vnebovzete in pokopom na Kalvarije pokopališču. Victoria Spelic Umrla je 89 let stara Victoria Spelic, rojena Pla-van, sestra Albine Michael in Fred-a (oba že pok.), teta in prateta. Pogreb j6 bil 13. maja v oskrbi Želetovega zavoda, kjer so bili pogrebni obredi. Great Annuity Rates! 7-year Flexible Annuity 5.50/O guaranteed first 12 months or 5-year Deferred Annuity 4.50% guaranteed for 5 years kskiM/ AMERICAN SLOVENIAN CATHOLIC / / UNION 1-800-843-5755 ♦ www.kskjlife.com l V BLAG IN NEPOZABEN SPOMfN OB OBLETNICAH NAŠIH STARŠEV PETRA IN LOJZKE TRPIN s’Wi *■ sflTYe; $t 'S: PETER umrl 28. februarja 1977 MAMA LOJZKA umrla 31. maja 1980 Vrsto let je te minilo, odkar pokriva zemlja Vajino gomilo. Odšla sta od nas za vekomaj in Bog Vama večni pokoj daj. Žalujoči: Dreu družina ;in ostalo sorodstvo Geveland, Ohio; 18. maja 2006.