ZARJA - THE DAWN URADNO GLASILO SLOVENSKE ŽENSKE ZVEZE V AMERIKI OFFICIAL PUBLICATION SLOVENIAN WOMEN’S UNION OF AMERICA NUMBER 2 MARCH-APRIL 2000 VOLUME 72 SEE YOU ON OUR WEBPAGE! WWW.SWUS.ORG Click on and you’ll find: WEBPAGE WILL BE AVAILABLE AFTER MARCH 15,2000 • Where we are located: Home Office - SWU Heritage Museum • National and Branch Officers Locations - coming events • Instructions for Members: How to apply for new membership Things you should know as a member: By-Laws-Constitution • Instructions to Branches: How to collect Archives - Reminders • Slovenian Heritage Museum - Location - Exhibits - Gift Shop and What you can purchase • SWU Cookbook: MORE POTS & PANS-selected recipes • Scholarship Awards: How to apply, When, Where • ZARJA: History, Contents, Special Tributes such as Mother's Day • Messages from our National President, National Secretary and much, much morel ZARJA - THE DAWN (ISSN 0044-1848) Postmaster: Sand all changaa of address to: ZARJA - THE DAWN, 4851 S. Drsxsl Blvd., Chicago, IL 60615-1703 NO. 2 MARCH-APRIL 2000 Member, Illinois Fraternal Congress VOL.72 Official Publication of the Slovenian Women’s Union of America — Uradno glasilo Slovenske Ženske Zveze. Published six times per year - šestkrat na leto. Annual Subscription for non-members, $15.00 — naročnina $15.00 letno za ne-članice. Publisher: SLOVENIAN WOMEN’S UNION OF AMERICA 431 No. Chicago St., Joliet, IL 60432 Telephone (815) 727-1926 Periodicals Postage Paid at Joliet, IL and at additional mailing offices All communications for the next issue of publication must be in the hands of the Editor by the first week of the month — vsi dopisi za naslednjo izdajo mesečnika morajo biti v rokah urednice do 1. v mesecu. Editor, CORINNE LESKOVAR Editorial Office: 4S51 S. Drexel Blvd., Chicago, IL 60615-1703 Telephone: (773) 548-8878 Facsimile: (773) 268-4899 SWU WEBPAGE: WWW.SWUS.ORG E-MAIL ADDRESSES President Kathleen Dorchak, KDORCHAK@NEO.COM Secretary Bonnie Prokup, WPROKUP@AOL.COM Editor Corinne Leskovar, @COMPUSERVE74534,3415 70th Anniversary in this year, 2000! Br. 38, Chisholm, MN Br. 39, Biwabik, MN Br. 40, Lorain, OH Br. 42, Maple Hts., OH M ission Statement We, the National Officers of the Slovenian Women’s Union of America, will be guided by our Constitution, Bylaws, and Regulations, and with God’s help, pledge to: * Unite American-Slovenian women and their families * Enhance the presence of the Slovenian community in America * Inspire our youth in spiritual and moral values * Promote the legacy of our heritage We ask the members to join us in the success of our mission. SPECIAL EVENTS IN Y 2000 MARCH 5- Br. 3 Pueblo, CO, Spaghetti Dinner and Bake Sale 17- Br. 100 Fontana, CA, Cruise to Ensenada, Mexico. Call Mary 20 Lou Height, 760-245-6666 APRIL 1-2 Br. 20 Joliet, IL Bake Sale, St. Joseph’s Church 30 Br. 73 Warrensville Hts., OH, Anniversary Mass, St. Jude’s Church, 10:30; breakfast follows MAY 2 Br. 14 Euclid, OH, Mother’s Day Party 11 Br. 5 Indianapolis, IN, Spring Luncheon 17 Br. 54 Warren, OH, Mother’s Day Party, 1 p.m. 21 Br. 35 Aurora, MN, Mother’s Day Party SEPTEMBER 2-3 BISHOP BARAGA DAYS, MARQUETTE, MI 10 Br. 43 Milwaukee, WI, Anniversary Event, Klemmer’s Restaurant IS Br. 50 Cleveland, OH, Picnic OCTOBER 1 OHIO-MICHIGAN STATE DAY Heritage Easy Life Simplified issue Life insurance plan For those with Health Pkoulems For ages 30 to 80 Call For Details A Financial Family Thai Feels Like Home Home Office: 2439 glenwood avenue ♦ joliet, il 60435 ♦ (800) 843-5755 E-mail: KSKJLife @ AOL.COM American Slovenian Catholic Union NATIONAL PRESIDENT Kathleen Dorchak 2000 — yyfn 'WxciAn^ /' Ambers - you will be happy to learn the Slovenian Women’s Union successfully sailed into the new millennium without a glitch! Your Board was ready and waiting. It’s amazing what can be accomplished when you are ready! Slovenian Women’s Union can now be reached on the Internet. Our Web Page -WWW.SWUS.ORG is the place to learn what is happening in our organization. Our plans are to inform the members of events and activities nation wide. A great big thank you is extended to Marc Judnick (Branch 20) for all his hard work and dedication to accomplish this task. Marc designed the web page and made sure we had everything in order to get on line. Check it out soon and see what we have to offer. Our Web Page will always be a “work in progress.” As time goes by the look will continue to change. Plan to visit the site often to see the additions and modifications. This is an exciting way to share what we are all about. Marc has volunteered to remain our web master and update our web site as needed. Each branch may want to assign the task to one of your members to notify Marc of upcoming branch activities and events. Marc will include your news on our web page. Updates to the web page can be sent to Marc Judnick at 3104 Caroline Dr., Joliet, IL 60435. Remember - to buy “More Pots and Pans” cookbooks for all your special family members and friends. Easter and Mother’s Day are rapidly approaching - they would make great gifts. Our National Secretary, Bonnie Prokup has worked very hard with the goal of sending out all of the billing to members by the end of February. Sending your payment as soon as possible helps us keep our membership lists current and our membership numbers accurate. If you did not receive your annual dues, please contact Bonnie for your bill. Please refer to the National Secretary’s Message in this ZARJA for her address. I want to thank the members for sharing their agenda ideas and suggestions for the National Board of Directors Meeting this month. The members of the National Board of Directors are looking forward to this meeting. We have a lot of exciting topics and plans to discuss for our future. As members of this beloved organization, I thought this poem exemplified the feelings we all share and meaning of our membership. There’s wisdom in taking the time to care; There’s wisdom in giving, and wanting to share; There’s wisdom in grace and making amends; There’s wisdom in having and keeping good friends. Peace, Love, and Joy! Kathleen Vesele Velikonočne praznike! Happy Easter! 3099 Markle Drive 4 Tel. (330) 686-1336 Fax. (330) 688-6203 til KDORCHAK@Nl (> rr com BONNIE PROKUP National Secretary w ▼ ▼ ell, the year 2000 has arrived and we are still here! I had a great Ne\ Years and have been keeping myself extremely busy this first part of the ne\ millennium. Bill and I just returned from Austria where we spent a few days in Innsbruck and two days in Neustiff (20 minutes south of Innsbruck). We met some friends from London who went there to ski. Bill and I don’t ski but we did something much better called Rodeling. This is just like sled-riding here. We went up into the Alps, well over 3,000 feet above the village on a ski lift. This ride took almost one half hour. On top we had a fantastic view of the village and the neighboring ones and there is where we picked up our sleds and started our journey downward. It was quite frightening at first. The paths were narrow with the cliffs on either side of you. If you kept a nice pace there was not much danger to this, however if you tried riding down with your feet up in the air - well, that’s another story. The trip down took a half-hour and it was well worth it. Of the many things I have seen and done in my life this is tops on my list! Well, that was the highlight of this year so far. Now for the business side of things - I’ve been spending many hours preparing my computer for the billing, which everyone should have received by now. This was a time consuming process but a necessary one. As many of you have been reading it started in September when Jonita Ruth and friends compared the computer list I had combined with their list kept in Joliet. After they finished, it was brought to me for updates, changes, deletions, and additions. I then sent a copy to each president, where applicable, for review. They were to send it back to me for the final corrections and then for billing - You will notice a few changes to the new billing statement: • Donations can be included with your dues - just specify • Add your ZARJA mailing address if other than shown on statement (this mainly applies for those members whose dues are paid by someone else) • Membership ID is for my accounting purposes - we still have your policy number. If for some reason you did not receive a bill statement please do the following: Write me a note and include your name, branch, policy number, birthdate, date joined, address and include your dues payment. I will make sure your name is entered into our computer system. In the near future the list I keep here will coincide with the ZARJA mailing list. We are trying to avoid duplicates in membership, duplicate mailings and mailing ZARJA to those who are no longer members. Also, one last note - if you are sending any correspondence please include your branch number on it. I am still learning names and branches. A special thanks to my sister, Debbie Pohar who has spent MANY hours in the past few months preparing my system for the billing. She is a true genius on the computer and extremely beneficial to our SWU. Thanks, Debbie! Also, thanks to the presidents and secretaries who have taken the time out from their busy lives filling out my officer forms and making corrections to the membership list. Thanks a million! AMERICAN AIRLINES/ZARJA RAFFLE Good news - we earned over $2,300 dollars on the raffle tickets! The lucky winner was pulled on December 19, 1999 at the Christmas/Anniversary Party in Joliet. Her name is Sharon Pape and she is from Cherry, Illinois. Best wishes on a great trip, Sharon! A special thanks goes out to all of those members who purchased tickets and those who helped selling. This was one of our better fundraisers earning a nice amount for our ZARJA magazine. BILLING If you did not receive a bill for membership please forward your: Name - Address - Birthdate - Policy Number to: Bonnie Prokup 3119 Carrie Street Peru, Illinois 61354 WPROKUP@aol.com Wanted: Daughters of Josephine Racic Looking for daughters of Josephine Racic. Please send me your married names and addresses so I can forward some mail of interest to you. HERITAGE MUSEUM DIRECTOR: HERITAGE FUND WHO WILL KNOW! WHO WILL REMEMBER? WHO WILL CARE? by Fr. David J. Stalzer, Heritage Director In 1991 Slovenia became an independent republic, receiving autonomy from the former Yugoslavia. Now there is this small nation of Slovenia that is recognized by the world as a self-governing people rich in history and tradition. Slovenia and Slovenians go back into history, but often they have been clouded over by their neighboring countries and especially the strong German influence and at times, domination. With the 1900’s, Slovenians, along with many other ethnic groups, immigrated to the United States. With this great flow from Europe, the Slovenes were determined not to be swallowed in the great mixture of humanity. What did they do? They founded churches, schools, fraternal insurance organizations, singing groups, newspapers, Slovenian clubs and Homes were organized where they could socialize and carry on their mother tongue and traditions. We are now in 2000 and we realize so much has changed. In many cases it had to change and we had little control over situations. It seems as though what is left in our Slovenian communities will continue to change, and the change will be one of diminishing, with no return. What will be left? What is the vehicle for carrying on your customs and traditions with a clear understanding of who we are? We believe that the S.W.U. Heritage Museum is one such vehicle that is left to preserve and make known our uniqueness as a people. The S.W.U. Web-site is an important vehicle that should definitely be used for transmitting this information. Also, the S.W.U. Heritage Museum located in Joliet, IL. For us to further develop and expand our facility we need funds. At the present time we have a little over $15,000 in the Heritage fund. We all realize what costs are today. It’s very simple - no money, no progress. I would like to propose to all our branches to make a donation or have some type of activity for the benefit of the Heritage Fund. Also, individual contributions are very important. If each member gave $1.00, that would be $5,000.00. If each member gave $5.00, that would be $25,000.00. If each member gave $10.00, that would be $50,000.00. Is this realistic? It depends how you look at it. We have these questions before us. Who Will Know? Who Will Remember? Who Will Care? The answer could be you! Blessings as we move forward. Send all donations to: S.W.U. 431 No. Chicago St. Joliet, IL 60432 All donors will be listed in ZARJA. GOT CABIN FEVER? LOOKING FOR SOMETHING TO DO? Volunteers needed to help clean, repair and do some maintenance of the Home Office of S.W.U.!!! For more information call (815) 727-1926. We need you! You are most welcome! DONORS $5.00: In memory of Rose Pucel, Br. 23 from Evelyn Prijatel. $10.00: In memory of John Taucher from Albina Skocaj, Br. 42; In memory of Frances Gazvoda, Br. 25 from Frances M. Gazvoda; Donation from Deanna Carlson; In memory of Sophia Ostroska Br. 13 from Officers and Members. Slovenian Easter Eggs are displayed at the SWU Heritage Museum - the artform is still popular and the designs are lovely. Pisanica rdeča - ljubezen goreča. Pisanka rdeča naj bode ti všeča. Tebi jo dam, ko te rada imam. Pisanke pisala, pesmice pela, dokler bom živela, bom zmiraj vesela. Je pisanka okrogla kak oravsko kolo, da b’ b’la najina ljubezen tud’ ravno tako. 99 NEW MEMBERS IN 1999! LAST ROUND-UP CAMPAIGN HAS GOOD RESULTS! They “lasso-ed" in the most! 6 New Members: Br. 2 Jean Železnikar (Chicago-Burr Ridge, IL) 5 New Members: Br. 30 Dorothy Swintoski, (Nicholasville, KY) Br. 42 Marjorie Church, Macedonia, OH Br. 100, Jean Koci, Fontana, CA Jean, Dorothy, Maijorie and Jean each earned an SWU Coffee Mug! Honorable Mention to three members who enrolled 4 new members each: Beverly Menart (Br. 33), Kathleen Dorchak (Br. 47) and Nika Kovacic (Br. 103). Thanks to all workers and welcome to all new members! Last Round-Up Campaign End-of-Year New Members December 28, 1999 Br. Last Name First Name Cert# 20 Mravle Michael F P1063 100 Jancich Carol P1066 20 Mravle Thomas C P1065 100 Koci Micaela PI 070 24 Witek Cassie PI 055 100 Lundgren Janet P1067 3 Ready RebeccaL P1085 100 Lundgren Krista P1069 30 Finch Carol S PI 035 100 Lundgren Sara P1068 33 Johnson Becky PI 076 102 Veit Alice L P1071 33 Johnson Brenda PI 077 103 Klancher Wendy P1078 33 Johnson Brian PI 074 2 Britt Loretta A PI 058 33 Johnson Sharon PI 075 2 Cerer Austin Luke PI 080 33 Skull Jenna R PI 053 2 Foley James M PI 083 39 Debevec Joyce PI 059 2 McNally Thomas P1073 39 Stuntebeck Judith PI 057 2 Siegler Hailey L. PI 082 42 Lostoski Marjorie M PI 079 2 Siegler LoganM P1081 42 Majkrazak SrJoanofArc P1051 2 Taylor Amy E PI 073 42 Yemec Madeleine J PI 052 2 Wagner Amy M PI 086 2 Wagner 20 Ivanich 20 Mravle 20 Mravle 20 Mravle 20 Mravle Denise M Donald J Anthony J Anthony T Judy L Marie L PI 087 PI 054 P1062 P1061 PI 060 P1064 Note: This total of 36 new members were all enrolled at the end of the year, 1999. See Jan.-Feb., 2000 ZARJA for earlier talley of new members who joined from July 15th to Dec. 15, 1999. 4/ ZARJA - the DAWN ROUND UP CAMPAIGN ’99 DILIGENT WORKERS BRANCH #2 Rosemary Litwin 1 Marie Ovnik 1 Donna McNally 1 Dolores Puhek 3 Elsie Ciszek 3 Anne Bunetta 1 Jean Železnikar 6 Total 16 BRANCH #3 Margaret Gorske 1 Kathleen Starcevich 1 Mary Rogers 1 Total 3 BRANCH #20 Home Office 19 Lillian Cepon 1 Nicole Blowers 2 Rose Costelli 1 Barbara Potochnic 1 Polly Ryan 1 Dorothy Končar 1 Total 26 BRANCH #24 Janice Mueller 2 Mary Ann Brunner 1 Total 3 BRANCH #30 Sandra Bartels 1 Mary Jo Pouchnik 1 Antoinette Rousseau 1 Dorothy Swintosky 5 Carol Pina 1 Lillian Horvath 1 Total 10 BRANCH #33 Emiry Skull 1 Beverly Menart 4 Total 5 BRANCH #35 Alice Wilson 1 Total 1 BRANCH #39 Vida Lanari 1 Amelia Mestnick 1 Total 2 BRANCH #42 Maijorie Church 5 Terry Anzo 1 Total 6 YEAR 2000 MEMBERSHIP CAMPAIGN In the first month of the new year, 16 new members were enrolled in Campaign 2000! Good Work! We hope many will follow! Sign up a new member! It’s easy! Just fill in an Application Blank (back inside cover) or get one from your branch secretary or the SWU Home Office. BRANCH #47 Catherine Barta 1 Kathy Dorchak 4 Barbara Sostakowski 1 Total 6 BRANCH #50 Dorothy T\isek 1 Shari Gibbs 1 David Kocjancic 1 Total 3 BRANCH #100 Hilda Lipic 1 Jean Koci 5 Total 6 BRANCH #101 Carole Corrao 1 Total 1 BRANCH #102 Josephine Vershay 1 Mary Whitehurst 1 Total 2 BRANCH #103 Mary Mejac 1 Nika Kovacic 4 Angela Stare 2 Total 7 Two members transferred from Br. 20 to Br. 89, Oglesby, IL GRAND TOTAL 99 Join at any age! All adult members, at any age, admitted after January 1,2000 will be accepted as active members with no burial stipend and will be assessed $15.00 per year. MARY TURVEY, Director, scholarship Fund Scholarships for 2000! * Four $1,000 awards will be given to high school seniors entering their freshmen year of college in September 2000. * Three $500 awards will be given to those adults who are returning to college for further education. For an application form write to: Mary Turvey, Director, 52 Oakridge Drive, Marquette, Michigan 49855. Returned forms must be postmarked no later than March 10, 2000. “The primary concern of American education today is not the development of the appreciation of the "good life, ” in young gentlemen born to the purple. Our purpose is to cultivate in the largest number of our future citizens an appreciation both of the responsibilities and the benefits which come to them beause they are American and free. James Bryant Conant, “General Education in a Free Society” Scholarship Fund Donations December 1999 and January 2000 $5.00 donations: Bill Slogar ( +Frances Zupancich), SWU Br. 23, Ely, MN ( + Frances Zupancich), Bill Slogar ( + Rose Pucel), Bill Slogar ( +Steve Smrekar), SWU Br. 20, Joliet, IL ( +Julia Plese, + Josephine Bostanche, + Theresa Papesh, Lilian Anderson, +Mary Marvic, + Louise Baucher, + Eleanor Smrekar, + Justina Gregorich). Victoria Bobence ( + Mary Gomik, + Anna Camaish, + Joseph “Phil” Godec, +Rose Planton), Bill Slogar (+ Anna Camaish), Mary Skufca, deceased (+ Mary Z. Pal-char, +Lee Slogar), Leone Slogar, deceased ( +Helen Parke), Mary Skfuca, deceased (+ Ann Lobe Skradski), Be Be Lobe (+ Frances Zupanich) $10 donations: Darlene Nemanich ( + Rose Pucel, -(-Frances Zupancich), Dolly Maki ( + Rose Kozar), Ann Tercek ( + Jane Novak), Ann & Dorothy Winter ( + Jane Somrak), Josephine Greben - Scholarship Fund, SWU Br. 32, Euclid, OH ( + Anna Pozar), SWU Br. 32, Cleveland, OH ( + Anna Tekavec) $25.00 donations: Anna Lukek (+ brother - Dr. A.F. Wrankar), Mary D. Maxim - Scholarship Fund, SWU Br. 32, Euclid, OH - Scholarship Christmas gift $40.00 donation: Jo & Wally Lustik - Scholarship Fund $50.00 donations: Margaret Addicott (+ Anna Mylnar Cooper), Virginia Blatnik - Scholarship Fund $500.00 donation: SWU Br. 20, Joliet, IL - Continuing Education Award We wish to sincerely thank all of these generous donors for “keeping our dream alive.” May God bless us all! SLOVENIA: PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE Gojko Stare - Continued - Yugoslavia was not a happy place: Serbs were trying to blend the three major ethnic groups into a Yugoslav nation under their control. Slovenians wanted a federal state. Croats wanted a country of their own. Yugoslavia was in perpetual crisis. WWII led to the disintegration of Yugoslavia in 1941 and to the occupation of the Slovenian territory by the Fascist Italy, the Nazi Germany and Hungary. The occupiers made no secret of their plans to destroy the Slovenian nation. They deported Slovenians to concentration camps and to Serbia, Croatia and Germany. The Nazis banned the Slovenian language in schools and churches. The Communists in Slovenia saw an opportunity to carry out a revolution and take power. They were a small piece in the grand Communist design to conquor the world and establish “dictatorship of the proletariat.” The Communist party proclaimed a war of national liberation against the occupiers. To this end it formed the Liberation Front (OF) and attracted many well meaning and patriotic Slovenians, mostly left-leaning intellectuals, socialists and the Communists. The groups that formed OF were not in the political mainstream. The main political party, Slovenian People’s Party (SLS) followed a more cautious approach and avoided armed resistance. They considered such actions futile and harmful because it would subject the population to reprisals. This indeed happened. Numerous Slovenian men were executed by the Fascists and Nazis in retaliation for the killings of Italian and German soldiers and many villages were burned to the ground. The armed resistance in the countryside, the Partisans, became completely dominated by the Communists who in addition to the rebellion against the occupiers engaged in assassinations of their political opponents whom they labeled “traitors.” These were village mayors, priests, politicians (Ehrlich, Natlačen). In certain areas (e.i. Dolenjsko) the population organized “village guards” (Vaške straže) for protection against Communist terror. These units received arms from the Italian military. Thus the anti-Communist opposition embarked on a course that brought it into an alliance with the occupiers: “An enemy of my enemy is my ally.” The Communists cleverly exploited the desire of the Slovenian people for liberation from the Fascist and Nazi occupation to carry out a Communist revolution. After the capitulation of Italy in 1943 the anti-Com-munists reorganized militarily as “Home Guards” (Domobranci). This was a war within a war and a civil war. The anti-Communists saw themselves as the protectors of the Slovenian nation against Communism which they considered a greater danger in the long term than the Germans who by then had been losing the war in Europe. However, the Communists had staked out a position that put them on the winning side of WWII. This was not unique in Europe: Similar events occurred in Ukraine, Poland, Croatia, Serbia. Finland, for instance, was an ally of Nazi Germany for most of WWII because of a war with the Soviet Union in 1939. Politics and wars make for strange bedfellows. At the end of the war the Home Guards and many civilians crossed over into Austria and surrendered to the British who in agreement with the Yugoslav Communists returned them to Slovenia. Many thousands were executed in the killing fields of Kočevje, Teharje and elsewhere. The Communists took over the government, there was much repression directed against believers, the Church, intellectuals. The country, although a dictatorship, followed a federal structure and Slovenians and others were generally not suppressed as ethnic groups. This was Tito’s way to counterweight Serbian supremacy. The centralized economic model did not work and various schemes were tried to improve on it, such as workers’ self-management. However, the main problem remained. The Communists wanted to maintain the ultimate control of all levels of power and consequently the reforms were not sufficient. Slovenia was the most developed of the republics (states). It imported raw materials from other republics and exported finished goods. Slovenia’s share of the GNP and exports was far in excess of the share of other populations in Yugoslavia. And, Slovenia also had to contribute a disproportionate share of the federal budget and additional taxes for less developed parts of Yugoslavia. This was a source of constant friction. In the sixties and seventies Slovenia was developing fairly rapidly and absorbed migrant labor from other republics. These migrants and their descendants (Serbs, Croats, Muslims, Albanians, Macedonians) today account for about 10% of the population. At the same time approximately 200,000 Slovenians left the country to find work abroad. Tito died in 1980; his iron hand that kept ethnic conflicts under control was gone. At the same time the economy was deteriorating. Serbs were attempting to increase their influence by accumulating more power in the hands of the federal government in Belgrade, which they largely controlled. Slovenia was opposing the changes. The Communist Party in Slovenia decided to go along with the public sentiment. The central Yugoslav government and the army wanted to put pressure on Slovenia to bring it in line. The military arrested four young journalists and accused them of espionage. The men were tried in a military court in Ljubljana and the trial was held in the Serbian langauge. This event enraged the Slovenian people (1988). There was a popular demand for a sovereign Slovenian state. The Communist Party membership was decreasing rapidly and the leadership was attempting a “soft landing,” a transformation that they could control. In the end they agreed to multiparty free elections which were won by a coalition of opposition parties (Demos, 1990). Lojze Peterle became the first non-Com-munist prime minister after WWII. In a plebiscite on December 23, 1990 the Slovenian people voted with an overwhelming majority for an independent Slovenian state. Slovenia declared its independence on June 26, 1991. These two dates are commemorated in connection with the independence: one is the anniversary of the plebiscite and the other is the date of the proclamation of independence. SFR JUGOSLAVIJA SR SLOVENIJA The war included confusion at the border of Italy; is it SFR Jugoslavia or Republika Slovenia? Lojze Peterle (left), first president of the new republic at the Parliament. (Photos MLADIKA, 7191) The West was not in favor of an independent Slovenia fearing that this would precipitate the disintegration of Yugoslavia. The central government and the Yugoslav Army, encouraged by this position of Western Europe and the United States, decided to prevent the independence through military action. This action was poorly executed primarily because the Army underestimated Slovenian determination to fight for independence. After 10 days of intermittent fighting a cease-fire was arranged through meditation efforts of the European Union. By the fall of 1991 the Yugoslav Army withdrew from Slovenia. The independence of Slovenia was complete. I believe that these events will be judged as among the most important if not the most important in Slovenia’s history. The Present The desire for independence was the main common interest that bonded the Demos coalition together. Once it was achieved disagreements and conflicting personal goals of the main players took over. The coalition fell apart and was succeeded by another coalition led by the Liberal Democratic Party (LDS) in April of 1992. Janez Drnovšek of LDS became the new prime minister. Significantly, the Christian Democratic Party was a junior partner in the coalition. In the 1996 election the center-right parties collectively won 50% of the seats in the parliament; the balance was won by Liberal Democrats, former Communists and their allies. There are two parliamentary seats that are reserved for the Hungarian and Italian minorities and their representatives habitually vote along with LDS. Neither side was able to form a government until one of the opposition representatives switched sides and joined LDS. After that the center-right Slovenian People’s Party (SLS) joined the government as a coalition partner. The core of the Liberal Democratic Party is composed of former members of the communist youth organization. They also attracted some of the smaller member parties of Demos and the management of industrial enterprises, who before independence were for the most part members of the Communist Party. In essence this is the party of the pre-independence ruling establishment. The people that held power in Slovenia before independence use LDS as the vehicle to maintain their grip on power. This indeed turned out not to be very difficult. They control the media, the economy and security services. Professional bureaucrats are holdovers from the Communist regime. Their political opponents are inexperienced. LDS successfully exploits differences among the opposition parties and personal ambitions of their leaders. The proportional voting system allows the emergence of numerous small parties who after the election turn out to be either allies of, or to have been planted by, LDS or Communists. Confusion, misinformation, manipulation and voter apathy allow LDS and its allies to control the political landscape. Criticism of the situation is either ignored by the media and the ruling circles or brushed aside: “We have democracy, don’t we?” - Yes, indeed. So does Russia and so did Pakistan - Formal democracy on its own does not guarantee good results. It can be used to manipulate and to cover up mischief, particularly if one side has the control of the most important resources (economy, media, bureaucracy). This situation is not unique in Slovenia. In a number of post-Communist countries (Russia, Ukraine, Serbia, Slovakia) the power remains in the hands of the previous rulers. When these countries privitized public or state-owned enterprises the management and people with ties to the ruling circles became the new owners. This is what happened in Slovenia as well. These developments are a source of public discontent and disillusionment, but the illegal activities are not pursued by courts and media who lack independence from the ruling clique or are controlled by them. Another source of friction has been the inaction concerning recognition and, as much as possile, rectification of injustices, injuries and crimes committed by the Communist regime in the past decades. The process of returning property seized by the state after WWII to the owners is far from completed. The Catholic Church has submitted numerous claims for property confiscated by the state after WWII. Many of these claims have been denied by courts obedient to the ruling circles. The media portray an image of the greedy Catholic Church which wants to grab a large chunk of land for itself. Generations of school children in Slovenia have been treated to an image of the Church as an evil and unnecessary institution set on dominating people by fear and guilt. There is a lack of understanding of the role of religion and the Catholic Church in the society. Not much is known of the status and role of the Church in the West. The separation of Church and State is interpreted as something that limits the Church strictly to religious matters and does not allow it to express an opinion on anything else. You may remember the uproar in the Slovenian media caused by Archbishop Rode’s sermon last August. Some people thought that he had no right saying what he did; that he came across as an evil person; that it was inappropriate to use an important religious event to bring up these issues. Most people did not dispute the truth of what he said. He talked about the problems of the Slovenian society and that conflicted with the rosy “success story” presented in the media. Should we be optimistic or pessimistic? The Slovenian people are not used to democracy; they have had no experience with it. There is political apathy and disillusionment, and cynicism for the government. (“They are all crooks. They look just after themselves.”) People feel powerless. The government is something that is imposed on them and that they have to tolerate. They prefer to complain about the situation rather than try to change it. There is a lot of mediocrity among politicians and government officials. Political jobs are not viewed as an opportunity to serve the people, but to exercise power and collect a good paycheck. People are polarized and there is intolerance for a different point of view. There is not enough respect for the law. Rulings of the Constitutional Court are ignored and the government ends up breaking its own laws. On the positive side, Slovenia is independent. It has succeeded in recovering from the loss of markets in Yugos- President Clinton’s June, 1999 visit to Slovenia has been chosen as the most important event of the year in Slovenia; an event of the same significance at the world level, however, was NATO’s air campaign against Yugoslavia. The 14th McDonald’s restaurant opened on December 21, 1999 and investment is SIT 55 million. The restaurant in the northern city of Kranj employs 50 workers. Since 1993 McDonald Slovenia has invested SIT 2.8 billion. Four of the restaurants are being managed directly by McDonald Slovenia. (Reprint from Slovenia Weekly Jan. 11/18, 2000) lavia and has managed to stay out of the wars that have destroyed other parts of the former Yugoslavia. The economy is in relatively good shape, particularly if compared to most other post-Communist countries. Inflation has been kept more or less under control. Per capita GNP is $10,000 and if this amount is adjusted for purchasing power differences it puts Slovenia in competition with the lower tier countries in the European Union. Slovenia is one of the more likely candidates to join the European Union and NATO early next decade. There have been some foreign policy successes: Slovenia is a non-permanent member of the Security council (until the end of 1999). President Clinton visited the country June, 1999. Slovenia is taking a more active role in the Balkans although some people feel there is a danger that Slovenia may end up lumped together with the Balkan countries rather than Central Europe. The pope has visited Slovenia twice since 1996 and beatified Anton Martin Slomšek during his second visit in September, 1999. Future If one were to ask an average Slovenian or a politician what the goals of Slovenia should be one would probably get the answer: membership in the European Union and NATO. I think that these goals are a substitute for something more fundamental. It is true that these associations would immediately confer some benefits on Slovenia. Slovenia cannot become a member without meeting certain minimum standards. Therefore the promise of membership is an incentive to change and, once achieved, a stamp of approval. These memberships are simple, concrete and easily identifiable goals. But they can also be seen as a crutch and a short cut for “the slow learners” i.e., the less developed countries of Europe. - “Once you are more like us then we will let you in and it will be good for you. Trust us.” - This approach is simple and expedient. It does not require much thinking, just a little diligence and following rules. But I am afraid that this may become a substitute for a serious national debate and soul searching. If you asked an American or a Costa Rican the same question you would get a different answer. They may say something like democracy, prosperity, peace and I think that these are really more fundamental goals. As an example let’s assume that the goals are something along the lines of democracy, prosperity, and the preservation of Slovenian national identity and culture. It will take some time for Slovenians to become comfortable with, and to actively practice democracy. This requires a transformation of the Slovenian society. It requires respect for law, for individual rights, tolerance, impartial media, etc. Slovenians need to start thinking and acting like a sovereign people. They have had no experience with this either. The government and the parliament need to start behaving more seriously and professionally. Slovenians need to understand that the government should be their servant not their master. It is hoped that the road into the European Union will cause this transformation. Further, it is expected that the membership in the European Union will benefit the Slovenian economy. It will force Slovenian enterprises to become more efficient and integrated into the European economy. On the other hand it will expose them directly to competition which some or many may not survive. Particularly Slovenian agriculture may suffer. Slovenia needs to be careful how it negotiates the transition to full EU membership. Slovenia - A country for all Seasons and Reasons! “A small area, yet diverse and full of surprises” is one of the favorite comments used to promote tourism. Another is “Slovenia, a Green Piece of Europe” and a favorite is “Slovenia, on the Sunny Side of the Alps”! There is no doubt that tourism holds the key to Slovenia’s future economy. What is meant by Slovenian national identity? Language, literature, history, heritage, schools, cultural and scientific institutions, historic monuments. An example of difficulties in preserving the Slovenian national identity are the well known Lipizzaner horses. They originated from Lipica in Slovenia some 400 years ago and are a part of Slovenian heritage. It turns out that now both Austria and Italy are claiming the status of “country of origin” for the Lipizzaner horses. This is somewhat like an inventor who invented something but did not file for a patent. If somebody else files for the patent he becomes the legal inventor, not the person who had the idea. It is not only Slovenia that is worried about its national identity. Even established nations such as France and Germany are wringing their hands about the harmful influence of American pop culture, technological dominance and economic power on their language and culture. Slovenians may be particularly vulnerable because of a streak in their psyche bred of an inferiority complex, which makes them believe that things foreign are better. It is fashionable to throw in an English word once in a while or to wear imported clothing. History is full of stories about peoples who disappeared. They were not physically exterminated but were assimilated. They left no descendents in the sense that nobody speaks their language; their customs are gone. Examples are certain Western Slavic tribes that were assimilated by Germans. The same happened to Prussians, a people related to Latvians and Lithuanians. Many Indian tribes in America shared a similar fate. Slovenians have managed to survive under much worse circumstances than they are facing today. Let’s hope that they will continue to do so and to prosper. The beautiful Logar Valley, a scenic jewel in Europe flCTIUITIES NO. 2, CHICAGO, IL Meeting: 2nd Thurs. St. Stephen’s lower hall Our Dec. ’99 was filled with many nice parties - Junior party supported by our Penny Social held in Nov. was a nice turn-out. Santa - Rick Rakovic, and St. Nick - Andrej Remec, made it all fun. In the spirit of Christmas 37 juniors gave presents to take to the children at Misericordia Orphanage. Pictures were taken with Santa and St. Nick as a keep sake. Our Adults’ party - after Mass - a hot supper - was served. Thanks to Father Stan and Father Vendelin’s music. We all sang Silent Night in English and then in Slovenian in memory of all the members who started this tradition a long time ago. There were 23 members traveling by bus for the 70th Anniversary/Christmas Party for Br. 20, Joliet, IL. It is always a lot of fun - hope more members can join us on our next venture! We were happy to see many National Officers. We were entertained by Tony Brandolina, accordionist and a song by Bekki Prokup. She gave her rendition of a pretty song. The Lucky Winner of the American Airlines ticket was drawn: winner was: Sharon Pape from Cherry, IL. A donation of $2,322 from this raffle was realized the ZARJA Fund. Thanks to all who bought chances. Chances were sold for the 50/50 raffle that day and our Betty Zalig won $150.00. As busy as he is working at St. Stephen’s - Ray Nusko takes time to decorate the hall. At Christmas we always feel like we stepped into a Fairyland. Thank you, Ray. Also, thanks to Joe Worth who gave floral gifts to our shut-ins for the holidays: Mary Foys-Lauretig. Elsie Melissa, Chris Pirman, Angie Blatnick and Mae Persa. Please remember our sick and shut-ins: Frances Jasbec, Chris Pirman, Angie Blatnick, Joyce Bronder, Jean Hraster, Elsie Melissa, Sophie Srabar-neck, Karen Blue, Lil Seibert, Dolores Nauheimer (Ovnik), Agnes Wob- CONGRAIULATIONS TO OUR MEMBER! Adeline Dolenc and Anthony Par-ziale were married in January in Spring Hill, FL. The marriage ceremony was officiated by Father Charles Strelich at St. Mary’s Church. We wish Adeline and Tony good health and much happiness in the years ahead! She is a 36-year member of Br. 2, Chicago where she made her home for many years and has a lot of friends! AH the best! lewski, Mae Persa and Amelia Smith. Congratulations to RoseMary and Brian Dare and also to grandmother, Ann Hozzian on the arrival of little Kelly Marie on December 21. Our condolences to the Franciscans Sisters of Lemont on the loss of Sister Mary Rose Ovca, Dec. 27. Many of our members were taught by her at St. Stephen School, and she played the organ for Br. 2 at some of our functions. She was a Sister for 70 years and died at 85 years, giving her life to the children. We lost the following members who died in 1999: Josephine Lukas, Frank Dolenc, Mary Dolman, Josephine Squok, Albina Cecich, Sophia Simec, Josephine Šinkovec and Wilma Šinkovec. Please remember them in your prayers. New Members Junior members: Austin Cerec, Amy Lapkus, Victoria Newbould, Jason Rigler, Hailey Siegler, Sara Kelly, James Foley, Bridget Hannon, Elizabeth Kochniarczyk, Jacob Kochniarczyk, Thomas McNally, Alexis Wroblewski, Martin Kelly, Robert Rigler, Logan Siegler, Amy Wagner, Kody Zamora, Justin Rigler, Shelsea Russell, Shenelle Russell. Adult Members: Karen Ceijak Blue, Connie Ceijak Taylor, Maryann Bogolin Kozlik, Betty Zalig, Neil Krašovec, Marion Steffy, Tina Rigler, Amy Taylor, Joan Wroblewski, Denise Wagner, Dawn Zamora, Annette Cor-giat, Dorothy Stefanski and Joan Jankowski. On Nov. 13, Genevieve Puhek Buol, State President and her sister, Dolores Puhek visited Br. 16 in So. Chicago. They received a warm welcome and had a nice visit. On the 3rd Sunday of the month before the 11:30 Mass the members of SWU say the Rosary. Please try to attend. Dates to remember: March 10: Br. 2, St. Joseph Table March 10, 31 and April 14: Fish Fry, St. Stephen ’ s Lower Hall, 4 to 7 p. m. April 25: Luncheon is Served, St. Stephen’s Lower Hall 6:30 p.m. May 18,19: Rummage Sale, All day "A smile - it takes but a moment. But the memory of it, sometimes lasts forever.” Keep in touch with each other. Love, DAISY NO. 3, PUEBLO, CO Meeting: 1st Tues. St. Mary’s Church Hall Our meeting January 4 was very fruitful even though our attendance was small. Nominations were open for officers for the year 2000. There being none, our current officers will remain; Margaret Cullen, President and Eileen Kaplan, Secretary-Treasurer. We thank them for being willing to serve in this capacity again. A memorial tribute was held for Frances Simonich. Frances was such a devoted member of the Slovenian Women’s Union and did a lot for it. A discussion was held on choosing our Mother of the Year. It was unanimously decided to have Margaret Cullen and Eileen Kaplan as our two Women of the Year. Who could be more worthy of this honor than they! They are superb leaders. Helen Skul brought the Mystery gift which was won by Eileen Kaplan. A delicious dessert was served by the hostesses, Katherine Sincovec and Pauline Pauchick. Bingo was then played. As we are heading in to Spring, activities at St. Mary’s Church will be the focus. On March 5, a spaghetti dinner and bake sale will be held. The ladies of the Parish will be helping as usual. Also, everyone looks forward to the soup served every Wednesday during Lent. As in the past, congratulations are again in order for Grant Macklen, son of Mary Macklen and Roger Macklen and grandson of Frances Ondovchick, who was named to the dean’s list for the third consecutive semester at the University of Colorado in Boulder. Get well wishes are extended to all who are ill or had surgery. Also to be remembered are the homebound, those in nursing homes and also the caregivers. Let’s make an effort to up our attendance at our meetings. The next meeting will be March 7. PAULINE PAUCHICK NO. 12, MILWAUKEE, WI Meeting: 3rd Thurs. St. Peter’s Church Hall except July & Aug. Here we are, flu bound - cold bound - snow bound! No meeting. Kind of boring! Shortly before Christmas we lost Adeline Bozich. She attended meetings but never discussed her illness. To her family we send our heartfelt sympathy. May she rest in peace. Another good friend of ours, Anton Verbick passed away. Our Slovenian community has suffered a big loss. Tony was a funeral director for seventy years! A friendly, kind, smiling gentleman, he was generous with compliments and financial assistance to all lodges, Arts Council, Slovenian Home. He was often called upon as emcee for our banquets. To his daughter, Judy Price and family, our heartfelt sympathy. Rest in peace, Tony. Some of our members took part in the KSKJ-SNPJ-CFU Bowling Tournament. Our special officer, Fran Remshak took part but I did not hear of any big scores yet. It does create good will and friendly competition. Josephine Rozman is back home recovering from hip surgery. Loni Limoni’s husband, John had a stroke. Vera Omik spent time in the hospital but is now recovering at home. Remember the above in your prayers. Connie Lewandowski saw the Rose Bowl Parade in California but didn’t have tickets for the football game. Let’s hope the weather will be better now so we can have our meetings. I hear that a lot of people miss our get togethers and chit-chat. A Happy Easter wish to all and hope spring will be pleasant for all. As I concluded this article I learned that Catherine Zalesnik passed away suddenly. She was a balina player and was on the winning team last year. Also, she was an avid slot machine player and won a big prize the week before her death. To her family and Lud Babich our heartfelt sympathy. MARY KIEL NO. 14, EUCLID, OH Meeting: 1st Tues., 6 p.m. Slov. Society Home Winter in our Cleveland area started with balmy days. Then our first two days of snow fell perfectly for a white Christmas. But since January we have felt the force of blustery, snowy winter. As we read this article we can start to cut off our branches from a forsythia bush, or from a fruit tree branch with thick buds, put them in water in the house and soon we can have spring blooming early for us. Another enjoyable Christmas dinner party was spent among our members and friends. Ed Koren was truly a welcome sight when he once again took over bartender duty. But his wife and our past president, Martha ‘Marty’ Koren was deeply missed especially as we paused before dinner to recite prayers in her memory. Larry Varney, secretary Diane’s husband, was kept busy selling tickets for our door prizes, as Jennie Fitzthum, President and Vera Bajec greeted arrivals while checking us in. It was very nice to welcome some members from No. 25 who joined us for our annual dinner. A hard-working crew came in to decorate and set up the tables for us... Fran Prijatel and her lovely daughters and family. We sincerely thank Fran, Louise Formica, Pat Milavec, JoAnn Bauman, Marilyn Beasley, Natalie Formica and Lisa Formica. Lovely table centerpieces of poinsettia wreaths with gold ribbons and a glowing candle created a fairyland atmosephere. Each place setting had a Santa Claus bag filled with candy goodies and a candy cane, along with cookie recipes and a touching holiday poem. Outstanding job ladies! Thanks also to everyone who brought gifts which were passed out as door prizes. Steve Valenčič, Ethel Yan-char, Jackie Ulle, Diane Varney and Esther Podboy acted as efficient runners distributing packages. Many thanks to all! Sophie Mazie prepared the usual mouth-watering dinner from soup to roast chicken and breaded pork chops to cheese and apple strudel. Thanks to you also Sophie and your very capable staff of waitresses. Get well wishes to Stana Grill who was hospitalized and is now recovering at home. Best wishes also to Margaret Ivec, and greetings to Mary Gerl at the Slovenian Home for the Aged. Speedy recovery wishes to members who might be ailing. Mark your calendar for our Mothers Day dinner party which will be held on Tuesday, May 2 at 6:00. Call in reservations for yourselves and friends to Jennie Fitzthum at (216) 261-1196. Elections for officers will be held at our March meeting. Don’t forget to wear some green as you celebrate St. Patrick’s Day! ALICE KUHAR Thanks Alice Kuhar for your interesting and informative Slovenian travelogue, on page 12. Part I is in the last issue of ZARJA. Alice Kuhar HAPPY BIRTHDAY IN MARCH A GLIMPSE OF SLOVENIA IN ’99 Part II While surfing channels on TV one afternoon in Ljubljana I was stunned to come across the Judge Judy show which is in English with Slovenian subtitles, followed by Oprah Winfrey. Cans of whole kernel com can be seen on the shelves at supermarkets and is being enjoyed by more and more folks. Popcorn is becoming a favorite snack. It’s not Beanie Babies in Slovenia but Čuri Muri babies, their own brand of miniature stuffed animals. Instead of crossroads with traffic lights, some crossroads have a circular island around which there is one-way traffic. Cars flow around this circle called Krožni Tok, which has roads peeling off the circle. It’s a way to slow down traffic and prevent traffic coming to a complete stop. Highway construction is continuing just about everywhere. Speed limit on the avto cesta (freeway) in Slovenia and Austria is 130 km or about 85 miles per hour. Petrol cost for regular is 114.40 tolars or about 64c a liter which is about $3.00 a gallon. Road bumps are being installed to slow traffic on residential streets. Handicap ramps at crosswalks and entrances to many buildings are becoming quite common. Was stunned to see new SMART autos whizzing around the streets of Stuttgart, Germany where I spent a few days. These cars are produced by Mercedes and the Swatch watch companies. The tiny 2-door, two passenger compact cars can be seen in vivid colors of yellow and crimson, purple and black, green and gray, etc. and sell for about $7,000. Women are all fashionably dressed and the ‘in’ color is black, whether in skirt suits, pants suits or dresses usually with low-heeled klunky shoes. Walked down the street next to Sion Hotel and was surprised to see a large group of people watching a fashion show right on the walk in front of a boutique. Walk into any record shop and your ears are assaulted by rap music. Buildings are being built in most village cemeteries with one or more viewing rooms with a built-in kitchen to serve refreshments. The deceased can be viewed behind a glass partition surrounded by flower arrangements. Most visitors bring candles wrapped in cellophane as an offering which the family can use in the future to bum at the grave site. Cell phones are evident everywhere. Some are so small they fit in the palm of your hand. Young children, teen agers and adults can be seen walking on the avenue nonchalantly talking on a MobilTel. - National Officers: Mar. 9- Victoria Bobence, PastNat’l. President, Ely, MN Mar. 16 - Fran Morison, Nat’l. Auditor, Brookfield, IL Presidents: Mar. 12 - Josephine Janezic, Br. 43, Milwaukee, WI Mar. 17 - Dorothy Maurin, Br. 28, Calumet, MI Secretaries: Mar. 24 - Agnes Mattson, Br. 34, Soudan, MN HAPPY BIRTHDAY IN APRIL Presidents: Apr. 3 - Vida Lanari, Br. 39, Biwabik, MN Apr. 10 - Jeanette Killoran, Br. 6, Barberton, OH Apr. 15 - Phyllis Fon, Br. 5, Indianapolis, IN Apr. 25 - Kathleen Emerson, Br. 105, Detroit, MI Secretaries: Apr. 14 - Janet Rosenberger, Br. 26, Pittsburgh, PA Apr. 24 - Delores Puhek, Br. 2, Chicago, IL Apr. 26 - Jennie Crea, Br. 52, Kitzville, MN MANY HAPPY RETURNS OF THE DAY! MOTHER OF THE YEAR TRIBUTES DUE MARCH 1, 2000 Please send in the Mother of Woman of the Year stories to the Editor by March 1, 2000. Send to ZARJA, 4851 S. Drexel Blvd., Chicago, IL 60615 or SWU Home Office, 431 No. Chicago St., Joliet, IL 60432. Haberman — Zimmer Funeral Homes Traditional to Contemporary Funeral Sendees - Cremation Services Pre-Arranged Funerals - Title 19 Funeral Trusts ow iVl. 6th Educational Programs - Serving AH Faiths 117 N. Wisconsin Dr. Sheboygan uc*ra«d Furani Howards Grove i^7-701 ? Mark S. Zimmer / /13 YL ‘§0^ Sheboygan A Sheboygan County Since 1373' ^ *031 v ■ ‘ S SHELIGA DRUG INC. 6025 St. Clair Ave., Cleveland, OH 44103 (216) 431-1035 Serving our neighborhoods’ daily needs TEZAK FUNERAL HOME “First in Service Since 1908” Licensed Producer’s; Richard K, Tezak Lydia Marquardl LUTCF (741-0427) (Forethought Trust) American Slovenian Catholic Union (KSKJ) Call for information and a free booklet "Por Future Reference" (815) 722-0524 459 No. Ottawa, Joliet, IL 60432 NO. 16, SO. CHICAGO, IL Meeting: 2nd Saturday, 1 p.m. monthly except Jan.-July-Aug. St. George’s Hall Greetings dear members! Can you believe that we are already into the month of March? Time really does fly, especially when you are having fun. Speaking of time and fun, how about coming to our next meeting on March 11th? C’mon on down and enjoy the comaraderie. It’s time well spent. As you read this, guess who is on a Cruise? Yes, it’s our traveler, Gladys and her niece, Barbara Ireland. They are taking Barb’s daughter, Kelley on the Grand Victoria to celebrate her thirteenth birthday. Happy birthday and enjoy the cruise Kelley. On March 19th, two people who are special to me, Kathy and Tim Monahan, are leaving for Italy to celebrate their 30th wedding anniversary. Enjoy the pasta and vino! Caio! Edna Winters got away from the cold and ice of Chicago for a week. She visited her son, Alan and daughter in law, Corinne. Our friend really gets around. Bon voyage to all travelers! We all extend our congratulations and best wishes to Elaine (Buns) and Joe Strubel who reached their Golden Anniversary on Feb. 11th. We wish you many more years together - we all love you! To my daughter, Rose Marie, congratulations on receiving your Bachelor of Science degree in nursing. I am so proud of you! HEARD FROM: Mary Brozovich - thanks for your phone call; it is a joy to hear from you. I am happy to know that you are meeting new people. We all knew that you would fit in. We miss you. Rose Salokar (she was very active in our Branch before she moved to Racine, WI, a number of years ago) writes that she enjoys the ZARJA; that’s how she keeps in touch. It was great to hear from you, Rose. Nancy Ann Starcevich, our dear member and and former V.P. (we await the cards that she creates) - thanks, Mary Ann, our loss is Florida’s gain. Can you believe that a spectator broke her wrist at an ice rink? Oh yes, our Tina Sertich did just that. She went 73RD ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION December 19th was the 73rd Anniversary of SWU and to celebrate officers and members gathered in Joliet, IL for Br. 20’s Christmas party. Present were these officers: Standing, Jonita Ruth, Bonnie Pro-kup holding daughter, Barbi, Cathy Lenkaitis, Corinne Leskovar; seated, Marge Church, Kathleen Dor-chak, Charlotte Kobe and Bekki Pro-kup. Bekki during her delightful solo performance. to watch her grandson do his stuff on ice, when she slipped and fell! OOPS! Tina, wear skates the next time! Helen Milanovich spent a few days at Trinity Hospital. Manda Maggio has been quite ill lately - we miss you. Dolores O’Brien had cataracts on both eyes removed and is recovering nicely. Our condolences to the Novak family on the loss of John, brother to Dorothy (Jim) Rossi brother in law to Fran (Rudy) Novak and to all of John’s surviving family. May he rest in peace. Our sympathy is extended to Helen Magnus and her family on the sudden death of her daughter in law. May she rest in peace. Happy birthday to March and April celebrants! Best wishes for a Blessed Easter to all. Love, MARGE PREBIL NO. 20, JOLIET, IL Meeting: 3rd Tues. except June to Sept. St. Joe’s Par Hall Dear Members, Well, winter has arrived and we were all thinking it might pass us by. Hopefully when you read this article, it will be gone. It was such an exciting event in December, celebrating Christmas and the anniversary of SWU on Dec. 19th. It was held at Syl’s Restaurant with dinner and music by Tony Brandalino’s Sing-a-long. Br. 20 Spiritual Director, Fr. David Stalzer was presented gifts for his 25th Anniversary of Priesthood; they were a beautiful gold desk clock and a nice black sport jacket. Betty Zolig won our 50/50 prize. We had a nice crowd of members and guests. We welcomed 8 National Officers who attended especially to celebrate with us the 73rd Anniversary of this organization. Nat’l. President Kathleen Dorchak was accompanied by her hus- She’s a beauty! KELSEY SINGLETARY, 17, was 4th runner-up in the Miss Iowa Teen USA 2000 Pageant held November 26-28 in Oskaloosa, Iowa. There were 42 contestants from all over Iowa. The young women were interviewed by judges on academic topics, sports, and their future plans. There was a competition for formal evening wear and swim suits with special emphasis on poise and presentation. Kelsey is the daughter of George and Janice Singletary and lives in Ankeny, Iowa with her younger twin sisters, Hannah and Hayley and brother, Kyle. She is a senior at Ankeny High and plans to go on to college. She excels in sports, placing 17th in the recent all state Iowa Track meet. Without a doubt her greatest fan is proud grandmother, Jonita Ruth, our SWU Nat’l. Treasurer who has enrolled all her children and grandchildren in Br. 20. Kelsey (right) is pictured with her aunt, Rosanne Ruth. band. Bob; Nat’l. Secretary, Bonnie Prokup had her two little daughters along, Bekki and Barbie, and her sister, Cathy Lenkaitis who is also our IL^IN State Vice President. Also among our out-of-town guests was Marjorie Church, Nat’l. Vice President. Rounding out the list of national officers were Fran Morison, Nat’l. Auditor and Corinne Leskovar, Editor, plus of course, our own local girls, Jonita Ruth, SWU Nat’l. Treasurer and Aggie Dobczyk, Director of Women’s Activities. We have to thank little Bekki Prokup for entertaining us with a sweet song. To make all the arrangements for our party took a lot of work and we thank our committee comprised of Pat Figurowski, Barbara Delaney and Car-lene Kambic. Thanks, girls! Here are the “under the wire” tax deductions for 1999: Proud grandparents of a baby boy on Dec. 14th are John and Delores Krzysciak; a baby boy for Gramma Alice Valek, on Dec. 19th, and a baby girl for Gramma Angie Paden who went to Tacoma, WA to visit her, bom Dec. 1st and last but not least, triplet boys for grandparents Tony and Mary Mihelich, bom Dec. 17th... Oops also a girl for Janet and Tom Schatz. Congratulations to all the parents and grandparents. More congratulations to Joyce Kopta and Richard Korst on their wedding, to Joseph and Lupe Ancel on their 25th Anniversary and to Marcia and Bob Judnik for their 35th Anniversary. Get Well wishes to: Anna Mae Lukancich, Charlene Carpenter, Lillian Stefanich and Dorothy Brown. Sympathy to Evelyn Lustik and Dorothy Horvat who lost their brother; to Veronica Williams, for her sister Angie Gerl; to Marie Scheldt, her brother; to Sandy Gregorash, her father, Walter; to Anne Egizio, her sister, Stephanie Kovacik; and also to the family of our 71 year member, Anna Horvat. Now, regarding our January meeting at which we all enjoyed the food provided by our officers, we had 43 members in attendance, including 3 new members as follows: Jo Vranesich, Suzette Korell and Joyce Stacy. Our guest speaker was Genevieve Buol, State President of IUN who came from Chicago. Fr. David installed the officers for the year 2000, namely: President Charlotte Kobe, Vice President Agnes Dobczyk, Financial Secret-ary-Treasurer Marcia Judnick, Recording Secretary Grace Doerk, ZARJA Reporter, Kathy Stonich, Auditors Mary Kay Demick, Jo Lustik and Bernice Nemanich and Sgt. at Arms Ann Dragovan. Three of them are assuming new positions and we wish them all the best: Marcia Judnick, Grace Doerk and Ann Dragovan. Genevieve Buol and her sister, De-lores Puhek of Br. 2, Chicago, were also winners of our drawings. Thanks for coming, girls, and we were all glad you won! Calling one and all to participate in the March of Dimes WALK AMERICA! Sunday, April 30th Let’s get together and form groups in our towns to help benefit this great cause! Join a Team - Be a hero! In Joliet - call no later than April 26-(815) 727-1926. Delores Welch won our attendance award of $40, but she was not present, so it will be $50 for someone at the February meeting. The coming events are: April 1-2, Saturday-Sunday, Bakery Sale at St. Joseph Church before and after all masses, benefit Br. 20 Scholarship Fund. April 18—7 p.m. Meeting at St. Joe’s park. Herbalife Distributor Lori Bon will share her expertise on weight loss and good health through intelligent nutrition. May 16 - St. Joe’s Park hall - Banquet honoring our Woman of the Year. A short meeting at 6 p.m. is our final meeting of the year. Scholarship Awards will be presented. Entertainment after dinner is “Magical Moments” with magician Dave Bogdan of Grand Rapids, MI. July 16 - Zveza Day in Lemont hosted by Br. 2, Chicago. Mass at 11 a.m. (Slovenian singing) and picnic to follow. Need transportation? Call Jonita, 727-1926. If you have an occasion for a card to be sent to a member such as a special anniversary sympathy, new baby or get-well, call our Sunshine Girl, Jonita Ruth at 726-6990. Any information you may have for the ZARJA, contact Kathy Stonich at 727-3177. We have three Scholarships for members available at the local level: a $500 scholarship for an eighth grade student going into Catholic High School, another $500 scholarship to a student already in a Catholic High School for the following year, and $500 to a member who wishes to continue their ADULT EDUCATION. For further information, contact Chairperson, Barbara DeLaney, 723-7979. HIGH SCHOOL SCHOLARSHIP (Graduating Eighth Graders) BR. 20, JOLIET, ILLINOIS OFFERS THE FOLLOWING SCHOLARSHIPS TO ITS MEMBERS Adult Continuing Education Scholarship In honor of our branch’s Anniversary, we are pleased to announce the availability of funds for members 21 and over who may pursuing advanced or continuing education. The award in the amount of $1,000. and will be granted to any qualified adult member in need of financial assistance. ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS 1. Member of SWU a minimum of 5 years, and must be 21 years or older. 2. A citizen of the United States. 3. Must be actively pursuing an advanced degree, or currently in an educational program, either in college or vocational education. 4. There must be an indication of financial need. 5. The applicant must be working toward a degree or certification, and must be making satisfactory academic progress (with GPA of C + or better). 6. The applicant may not be in default or owe a refund on a federal grant or federal education loan. The following items need to be forwarded to the Scholarship Committee in care of Barb DeLaney (see below): 1. A letter identifying your need for the award. 2. A transcript of your most recent semester grades (if applicable) from the institution you are attending. 3. A current, signed Federal Tax Return. Mail the above information to: Br. 20 Scholarship Program Mrs. Barbara J. DeLaney, 2209 Greengold Ave., Crest Hill, IL 60435 For questions please call (815) 727-1926 or (815) 726-1345. NOTE: To maintain objectivity, the information requested will be kept confidential and the identity of the applicants will not be divulged to scholarship committee members. Each applicant will be given a number and the scholarship committee will not know the identity of the applicant they are reviewing. Identity will be revealed after the applicant is approved. The Slovenian Women’s Union, Br. 20 is pleased to announce the availability of a high school Scholarship for academically qualified eighth grade students who wish to attend a Catholic high school. The Scholarship, in the amount $500, will be awarded to applicants who meet the following criteria: 1. Must be a current 8th grade student and must be a member of Br. 20 for five full years. 2. Applicant must have been accepted at one of the Catholic high schools, and be enrolled for the fall semester. 3. Scholastic ability must be proven. A written recommendation from the school principal or eighth grade teacher should include an estimate of the applicant’s ability to perform and complete high school work. Recommendation must also include an evaluation of applicant’s character and code of behavior. 4. A statement from the applicant outlining his or her individual and family membership in Br. 20, plus an overview of involvement in branch activities. This statement must be fowarded to the branch president for signature. Completed application form and requested data is to be sent to: Br. 20 Scholarship Program Mrs. Barbara J. DeLaney 2209 Greengold Ave., Crest Hill, IL 60435 Deadline for submitting completed application is April 15, 2000. Envelopes postmarked after due date cannot be accepted. To maintain objectivity in awarding the Scholarship names of the applicants will not be published by the Scholarship Chair. Each applicant will be assigned a number so that committee members will not know which applicant they are reviewing. Scholarship will be presented to the winners at the branch’s May meeting/Woman of the Year Banquet. One scholarship per family per year. If you are interested contact Barbara DeLaney for application papers. Phone number (815) 744-9422. HIGH SCHOOL SCHOLARSHIPS (Current High School Students) The Slovenian Women’s Union, Br. 20 is pleased to announce the availability of $500 Scholarship for academically qualified high school students who wish to continue their education in a Catholic high school, or are planning to transfer from a public to a Catholic high school. The Scholarship will be awarded to an applicant who meets the same criteria as for Graduating High School Seniors who have been accepted and are enrolled for the fall semester at a Catholic high school. BARAGA WINDOW IN NEW YORK On a recent trip to New York to visit with their son, Wally and Jo Lustik (Br. 20) attended the Slovenian Church of St. Cyril’s where they had the pleasure of meeting Miro Zupančič (center) the artist who created this beautiful stained glass window of Bishop Baraga. Wally and Jo along with their son, Kevin, were delighted at the opportunity of speaking with the famous Slovenian artist. To attend the funeral of a deceased member and participate in a group car or to volunteer a few hours per week, in the morning, at our Heritage Room, please call Millie Pucel, 723-7307. Just as we go to press we learned of the accident that befell our new Rec. Sec’y. Grace Doerk. She broke her arm in a fall and will be indisposed for a time as it heals. Our sincere get-well wishes, Grace! Bye for now. KATHY STONICH NO. 22, BRADLEY, IL Meeting: 3rd Tuesday every other month Members’ Homes A toast to the New Year from the Irish: As we start the New Year, let's get down on our knees and thank God we’re on our feet! Amen to that and a happy, healthy, peaceful Y2000 to all! Our Christmas party was held Dec. 14 at Heritage Village beginning with Mass at 11 a.m. and followed by dinner in a private room just off the residents’ dining area. We missed you, Barbara Rittmanic (had a bad cold), and thank you for the novel candy cane treats you sent us. In a short business meeting the same officers were elected to serve another year. They do so well, why not? Our generous members, Ann Richards and Marge Planton, brought along several door prizes to add enjoyment to the social time. Our thanks to them for their thoughtfulness. Mayme Drassler’s broken hip is on the mend. The lesson learned: No dancing without using the walker! Her sis-ter-in-law Ruth was a lucky one in having sustained no injuries in a ferry boat accident while on tour of the east coast. “We fell like dominoes,” said Ruth. This incident occurred as the group was coming from Martha’s Vinyard to the mainland. Ruth fell in love with the seaside and knows now why other people wish to live there. Mollie McIntyre had a busy holiday entertaining grand- and great-grand children from Utah, Kentucky and Hoffman Estates. She enjoys them immensely and keeps in touch by phone with all her dear ones. She reported to me that her cousin Louise Gerdesich Brawley of Birchtree, MO, formerly of Bradley, is 88 yrs. old and is an eager reader of the ZARJA. Louise left this area some 60 years ago. Greetings, Louise, from all of us! Our condolences to Elizabeth and Anne Kinder upon the loss of their brother-in-law/uncle, Louis Marcotte, and to Mayme S(arasinich Marcotte and family. Mayme and Louis had been married 63 years. May his soul be at peace. To all the January birthday ladies and to our special SWU friend, Leo Rittmanic, heavenly blessings of every sort to make the year most memorable. This greeting goes to Marge Planton, Elizabeth Kinder, Emma Znidarsich, Gabrielle Lustig and Barbara Rittmanic. Leo celebrated his 94th birthday in February! Marge, by-the-way, is a great grandmother for the third time; the little fellow is Nicholas Andrew. We’re meeting again at Heritage Village on March 21. Meanwhile, have a good Lent, enjoy St. Patrick’s and St. Joseph’s Day, and experience the Joy of Easter! EMMA LUSTIG NO. 24, LA SALLE, IL Meeting: 3rd Thurs. Catholic School Library Mar.-Apr.-May-June Sept.-Oct.-Nov. Twenty-five members attended our Christmas Party on December 2 at the Paramount Club. There were 26 reservations but we learned at the party that Frances Puetz was in the hospital with pneumonia. We missed you, Frances, and hope that you’re much better now. Loretta Story and Frances Kasik were the chairmen and they hosted a very nice party—delicious food, a gift exchange and then each member received a poinsettia plant to take home. Thanks to Loretta and Frances for the lovely party--a good time was had by all! Minnie Carter, Adele Gensler and Betty Stack prepared fruit baskets for the local shut-in members before Christmas and out-of-the area shut-ins received a Mass and Novena card informing them that the Masses will be said at Our Lady of the Snows in Belleville, IL. Christmas cards were sent to the members who are 80 years or older, informing them that the Branch will pay their dues for the year 2000. This winter has been a time of much sickness, colds and flu and almost every home has had someone sick. I hope everyone will be feeling much better by the time they read this article. Our sympathy to Ann Cassidy, whose husband, Robert, died on December 1, 1999 as the result of an automobile accident. Ann and Bob moved MEMBER BILLING If you did not receive a bill for membership please forward your Name - Address - Birthdate - Policy Number to: Bonnie Prokup, 3119 Carrie St., Peru, Illinois 61354 WPROKUP@aol.com to Melbourne, Florida from La Salle in 1991. Services were held at St. Joseph’s Church, Palm Bay, FL with burial in Palm Bay. He is also survived by a son, Robert, one grandchild, brother Edward, sister-in-law, Audrey Prokuski of Mendota, IL and niece, Mary Jean Weihman of Ottawa, IL. Bob will be remembered with prayers at our next meeting. May God grant him eternal rest. Our members will probably have their dues statements by the time they read this. Bonnie Prokup, our National Secretary, sent out lists she compiled from various lists to each branch for verification and corrections. This was a massive undertaking on her part. I went over our list very carefully and found a few discrepancies and sent it back to her, I’m sure each of the branch secretaries will appreciate all of her hard work. This might be a good time for you to make sure you have the correct beneficiary on file. Remembering all of the birthday girls who will celebrate in March are: Jr. Member, Josephine Pohar Brady, Theresa Kinczewski, Helena Millman, Mary Gertrude Piletič, Mimi Hewitt and Trese Hollerich, and our April celebrants: Mary Jean Weihman, Adele Gensler, Marianne Schweickert, Theresa Wellner, Frances Jean Ficek, Mary Ann Brunner, Jr. member, Ashley Collins, Ann Cassidy and Debbie Pohar. Best wishes for a Happy Day and many more happy birthdays for each of you. Our next meeting will be held on Thursday, March 16th, 7:00 p.m. in La Salle Catholic School meeting room. At that time we will decide whether or not to change our meeting night as the third Thursday in April falls on Holy Thursday. We are anxious to see all of you. As you read this we will be observing the Sacred season of Lent. This is a special time for Prayer and Penance-a time when we take a look at our lives and promise to do better. I wish all of you a most Joyous and Blessed Easter. ANNE M. WANGLER, Reporter NO. 32, EUCLID, OH Meeting: 3rd Wed. SSH Recher Ave. Our greetings to all for the New Year. Good health and happiness is our wish to all. A few of our members have been sick during the holidays and we hope they are all well by now. Our Christmas party was well-at-tended. We were pleased to have two of our officers from Br. 25 join us, namely, Ohio-Michigan State President, Fran Gazvoda and Vice President, Peg Moore. It was an honor to meet them. Thanks to all the members who generously brought food. It was delicious and there was such a variety! After our meal we were entertained by Joey Tomsick with his accordian. We had a sing-a-long and many old Slovenian songs were played that we haven’t heard in a long time. Thanks to Mary Batic and her daughter, Beverly for the fine entertainment. They were great. We had no gift exchange but everyone went home with a door prize. March 15th will be our first meeting date in this new year. We will be celebrating St. Patrick’s Day, so wear your green! We will be saying the rosary during either March or April meeting. Dorothy Lamm and president Ann Cooke will be busy making plans for our Ohio-Michigan conference which will be held on Oct. 1st. We hope that all branches will be able to attend this conference. There will be more information later in ZARJA. President Ann Cooke is spending three months in Florida with daughter and family. Adrienne Jager and her husband, Steve are going on a Cruise in March. Charlotte and Rudy Perdan are traveling to Myrtle Beach in April. Hope they all have fun on their vacations. Happy Birthday and Happy Anniversary to all members who are celebrating their big days in the months of March and April! Good health and happiness to all. FRANCES OGOREUC NO. 34, SOUDAN, MN Meeting: 3rd Wed., 1 p.m. St. Martin’s Church Hall Jan. to May; Sept., Oct. & Nov. Our first meeting of the new year, 2000, was held on Wednesday, January 19, in the parish hall of St. Martin’s, with a good attendance. First on the agenda was the installation of officers, with Tory Bobence as installing officer. Installed were: President, Theresa Berg; Vice President, Lorraine Berg; Secretary-Treasurer, Agnes Mattson; Recording Secretary, Emma Betoume; Auditors, Marcella Rooney and Lucille Svatos. Named as Program Chairman was Theresa Berg. All of these, except Emma Betoume and Agnes Mattson, are new officers. We wish them well and give our cooperation and good wishes. We discussed what we were going to do for the Mother of the Year, this will be decided upon later. Also coming up for discussion was our correspondence from Bonnie Prokup, National Secretary, and the ladies stated their opinions. Also read was a letter from Mary Turvey, Scholarship Chairman, clarifying the situation with the new scholarship requirements, etc. We were again reminded to check our beneficiaries for our insurance policies. There still are members who are waiting to be billed for the year 1999 and I am one of them. Sophie Spollar, a member who now resides in Virginia, sent her greetings for the new year and thanked the branch for remembering her at Christmas. We wish a good recovery to Marcy Rooney, member who was hurt in a car accident just before Christmas. We adjourned to watch a video of Scott Hahn, a well known convert to Catholicism and who spoke in Hibbing last fall. The ladies enjoyed it very much. This video was kindly given to Theresa Berg by Fran Bizal, member of Chisholm’s branch, for us to enjoy. Thank you, Fran. From now until Easter, St. Martin’s is encouraging our parishioners and anyone else interested, to watch a video series about our Catholic Faith by Fr. Carr. Some of us have already completed the series and recommend it. Those of you who know member, Helen Adkisson, will be pleased to learn she is now making a nice recovery from her heart surgery on September 10, 1999, and subsequent surgeries, thank God. Our meeting closed with coffee and dessert; hostesses were Tory Bobence and Agnes Mesojedec. The door prize was brought by Theresa Berg and won by Marcy Rooney, which was a lovely French Vanilla Three Wick candle and holder, something anyone would love to have! Our February meeting was planned with Marcy Rooney and Marge Skala as hostesses - door prize to be brought by Emma Betoume. Will report on it next month. I send you a happy new year, we are finally getting some snow, so it seems more like winter. ADELINE MUSTONEN, Reporter NO. 35, AURORA, MN Meeting: 6 per year Community Sr. Center Our Christmas dinner-meeting on Dec. 5th was opened with an Advent Prayer. Once again, our present officers were re-elected for another year. They are: President Anne Orazem, Vice President Anita Vovk, Secretary Alice Wilson, Sec.-Treas. Dorothy Jamnick, Historian Janice Grebence, Auditors Janice Grebence and Phyllis Turk. Thank you, ladies. Congratulations to the following: Father John Sustarsic, retired from St. Anthony and St. Pius X parishes in Ely and Babbitt was honored as Priest of the Year at the clergy conference in Grand Rapids last fall. Bishop Roger Schwietz presented Fr. Sustarsic with a pin and diocesan Coat-of-arms. He is very deserving of this honor. Fr. John was our Spiritual Advisor when he was the pastor at our Holy Rosary parish; also, he wrote articles for the ZARJA. Our Woman of the Year 2000 is Martha Gunderson. We will honor her on Sunday, May 21st. Two 50-year members, Julia Strukel of Duluth and Rose Voiovich of Shakopee were honored with 50-year pins and a monetary gift. You may want to mark your calendars with the meeting dates: Sunday, April 9th, CC, 2 p.m.; Sunday, May 21st, Woman of the Year Party, 12:30 p.m. Legion; Sunday, Sept. 10th Min- 70th ANNIVERSARY of Br. 35, Aurora, MN was a day to remember! A gala dinner on Oct. 10th, 1999 was filled with remembrances of days gone by. On the top photo is a display of photo albums prepared by Dorothy Jamnik and Anna Hodnik. On the other photo is seen part of the table arrangement of scrumptious food that was served! Anna Hodnik, one of the servers is seen on this photo. She also loves to sing and led the community sing-a-long! We wish her a speedy recovery since her recent open-heart surgery. Hope you are doing just fine, Anna! nesota State Convention, Ely; Sunday Oct. 10th, CC 2 p.m.; Sunday, Dec. 3rd, Christmas Dinner and Meeting, Legion, 3 p.m. Belated get-well wishes to Phyllis Turk’s husband, Bob and to Anna Hodnik who had heart surgery, also Josephine Potter had hip surgery and Mary Nosan’s husband John had surgery, too. Dorothy Jamnick and Alice Wilson spent a few days in the hospital in January. By the time you read this may all of you be completely recovered! After the meeting we enjoyed a delicious dinner catered by our American Legion Auxiliary. Anita couldn’t be with us but she prepared an interesting and informative Slovenian Christmas Quiz which everyone enjoyed. Thanks to everyone for your generous gifts that totaled $44 for our Nursing Home Activities Dept. Winner of the door prize was Helen Simonich. Thank you, Anita, for the quiz and prize. Happy Easter, everyone. ANNE ORAZEM NO. 39, BIWABIK, MN 1st Sunday monthly St. John’s Church We were fortunate to have pleasant weather on Sunday, January 9th as we met to celebrate our “Christmas Party. ” President Hietala convened a short meeting before the festivities began. She asked for an update of the Calling Committees and Cooperation in the planning and implementing of future activities. Secretary-Treasurer Vida Lanari gave the remaining cookbooks to Jane Purkat, who has them for sale at Pep’s Bakery where she works. Our Sunshine Gal, Ann Geržina reported on the various families who were remembered with cards during the past month. Our special guest, Father Frank Per-kovich led the twenty-eight members and guests in prayer before we sat down to enjoy a delicious catered meal of Swiss Steak and all the trimmings. The group then socialized and played the “Dice Game.” As usual, there was bedlam as the wrapped gifts were stolen Social Members are Active Members! Members in the Social Class, enrolled before January, 2000, shall be entitled to vote in any election or general referendum of this organization and its branches. Such members shall also be eligible for any association or branch office. (SWU Bylaw 3.09) back and forth, with everyone taking home several prizes as the time expired. Ann Tushar was the lucky winner of a red silk flower arrangement, made and donated by our talented Eine Karish. Toots Hietala and Millie Mestnik were the hostesses for the event and did a superb job of decorating the tables with fresh greenery and large glass candles, each painted with a different religious picture. Small Slovenian flags were also displayed on the tables. Jean Korsman and Jane Purkat volunteered to audit the books for 1999 and host the February meeting. Happy St. Joseph’s and St. Patrick’s. JEAN K. NO. 42, MAPLE HTS., OH Meetings: Quarterly, 2nd month of the quarter, 2nd Saturday Maple Hts., Library If you were unable to attend the Christmas Party at Home Town Buffet you missed a very enjoyable event. Bob Kastelic and Milan Stavec provided the great button-box entertainment. In attendance was Mary Lou Prhne, a longtime, hard-working Br. 42 officer who has returned to the Cleveland area after many years of residence in Florida. In February, however, Mary Lou did return to Florida for a month’s stay. Also Florida-bound during late February and early March are Josie Gruden and Annie and Marge Zupančič, along with the celebrated Bus-Bums! On Dec. 18th I attended the 99th birthday celebration of my cousin, Mary Shamrow at Walton Manor. As a special favor, button-box afficionado, Milan Stavec entertained on his “Harmonika,” much to everyone’s delight. In attendance was Vida Vercek who is also a resident at the Manor. Mary and Vida never stopped crying from sheer happiness listening to the familiar Slovenian melodies. Mary’s family is a true testament to longevity - she is the oldest of four living sisters, all in their 90s! Our branch welcomes new members: Rose Meljac, Terry Son, Dr. Tom Jaras, Joyce Scott, Sister Joan of Arc, Marge Lostoski and Marge Church’s new grand niece, Madeleine Yemec. On Dec. 22nd Mary Perko joined the ranks of great grandmothers with the birth of a boy to grand daughter, Nicole Phillips. Happy March birthdays to Anne McCaslin, Ann Supancic, Marie Vercek, Albina Mroczka, Tina Buehner Vida Vercek, Katie Kossakoski and Kimberly Balach. Happy April birthdays to Margaret Roznik, Arlene Legan, Eleanor McAr-dle, Helen Grocky, Imelda Blazy, Terry Anzo, Dorti Zidar and Mary Jo O’Neill. April 28th also denotes the birthday of the late Ivan Zorman, the great Slovenian poet and writer. He passed away in August, 1957 at the age of 67. Actor Humphrey Bogart died the same year, and ironically of the same malady. After all these years I still miss his presence and his tremendous talents. As you read this I will be preparing for a visit with my daughter, Lynn, in California. We usually pre-plan an auto trip to various locations there. The state is so large and gives one many choices of climate and scenery, and is accessible to many other interesting sites: San Diego, Palm Springs, Lake Tahoe, San Simeon and the Hearst Castle, Sol-vang, Carmel, Big Sur, San Francisco and Napa Valley. We also try to include a visit to my niece, Nancy Lipnos Kish in Las Vegas and my late husband’s last surviving brother in Anaheim. Our most memorable trip was four years ago when we motored up the Pacific Coast Highway to Vancouver, spending time in Seattle and Mt. St. Helen area. News reaches me that Mel Blazy is recovering from knee surgery in December and Mary Vercek from major surgery in January. Our best wishes go out to them and any members who are ailing or confined during these winter months. Finally, Happy Easter to everyone, till spomlad - spring! Zbogom! LIL SADOWSKI NO. 43, MILWAUKEE, WI Meeting: 4th Wed. St. John Evangelist Rectory The Y2K scare had many people worried about the coming of the Year 2000. Some did quite a bit of stocking of food supplies and water. But we were all very lucky. Our Christmas Party at Klemmer’s was well attended. The food was very good, and our members made an abundance of cookies, some of which we had for our dessert with ice cream; and some were also raffled. Every one seemed to have a very good time. In January we didn’t have a meeting. We will have meetings on March 23rd and April 27th. Same place, same time. In May we will have our “Mother of the Year” luncheon. Time and place, as yet, has not been selected. We will have a meeting on June 22nd. The Convention and our 70th Anniversary celebration will be on September 10th. The welcoming breakfast, Mass, Meeting and Dinner will all be at Klemmer’s. This will eliminate transportation from one place to the other. Further details will be listed in the next ZARJA. The Lord called to his heavenly home a very fine fratemalist, and a friend to everyone, Anthony Verbick. He will be missed by many. The Lord also called another fine man, Vladislav Kralj. He was responsible for the beautiful radio programs on our Slovenian Hour. We wish to express our deepest sympathy to the families of both and may their souls rest in peace. We have been very lucky weather-wise, although it is cold. But we seem to have quite a bit of sunshine, and so far, very little snow. Please keep in your prayers all of our sick and deceased members and friends. See you at our March meeting. ANNE E. KONCZAL, Reporter Katarina K. Erzar: UTRINKI IZ OTROŠKEGA SVETA V šoli pri sinu Iskrica v otrokovih očeh prižiga najtoplejši plamen upanja, veselja do življenja in hkrati tudi postavlja pred nas najtežja vprašanja. Kaj res potrebuje otrok, kaj lahko dam svojemu otroku, kdo mi bo povedal pravi odgovor, dal navodila. Kot psihologinjo in mamico so me poučili, da otrok za svoj zdrav razvoj potrebuje zrcaljenje. Cele knjige so napisane o odnosu med materjo in otrokom in povsod je mati tista, ki zrcali otroka, ki mu prinaša ves svet in varnost. In vse to naj bi bilo v tem “zrcaljenju". Kot psihologinja sem si že nekako predstavljala, kaj naj bi to bilo, kot mamica pa sem utegnila samo živjeti z majhnim otrokom, se igrati, tekati okrog, tolažiti, oblačiti, umivati, hraniti, preživjeti izbruhe jeze in trme, jok in nezadovoljstvo, ter ob tem ohraniti veselje do tega živahnega življenja. Nekako nisem mogla svojega otroka gledati od zunaj, predvsem pa nisem mogla določiti ali je v moji stiski, negotovosti, veselju, vzhičenosti in obupu ter tolažbi, igranju in rokovanju s trmo kaj zrcaljenja ali ne, ali je to pravo zrcaljenje ali ne. Potem pa se je otrok naveličal in mi pokazal, da psihologi niso znali tako lepo povedati, kaj pomeni zrcaljenje, kot zna to on sam. In suhoparen pojem zrcaljenje je postal nekaj toplega, globokega in predvsem varnega, je postal posebna iskra v očeh otroka, ki se umiri v materinem pogledu. Dve leti in pol star deček, ki se je do tedaj mirno in zadovoljno igral s svojim bagerčkom, mamica pa je zbrano sledila dogajanju v cerkvi, in se za dečka ni menila, naenkrat zleze mamici na kolena, jo pogleda v oči in reče: "Mami, jaz bi z bagerčkom dal ven ta uček, tega bi pa pustil" Mamica ga, skoraj malo zgrožena, vpraša: "Zakaj pa bi to naredil?" Malček odgovori: “Da bi dal sem ogledalo!" Mamica sprašuje naprej: “Kaj pa bi bilo potem?” Malček odvrne: "Potem bi se pa lahko videl notri!" Mamica ga pogleda in reče: "Kaj pa zdaj vidiš v mojih očeh?” Malček se pozorno zazre v njene oči in navdušeno vzklikne: “Markota!” Potem mamico objame in skoči iz naročja na tla, ter se začne naprej igrati s svojim bagerčkom. Otrok potrebuje mamo, ki ima take oči, da on v njih lahko vidi samega sebe. Če te oči zanj obstajajo, se bo v njih stalno napajal z novo energijo, z novim občutkom varnosti in zavesti o sebi. Trenutek tega stika, ki mu strokovno pravimo zrcaljenje je za otroka dovolj, da dobi občutek lastnega jaza in varnosti. Da s pomočjo ljubečega zrcala lahko obvlada občutja osamljenosti, tesnobe, ki se je zaveda ob vstopanju v svet. Otrok ne more obvladati občutkov, ki se v njem razraščajo in postajajo vedno bolj kompleksni in intenzivni. Ko pa se najde v materinih očeh je varen in pomirjen. Takrat me je prešinilo, da sem se nekoč, ne tako dolgo nazaj tudi sama zalotila v prijaznih in toplih očeh in da mi je bilo ob tem lepo pa tudi precej nerodno. Kaj bi se zgodilo, če bi se znova poskusili poiskati v očeh svojega moža ali svoje žene...? —O*- NO. 47, GARFIELD HEIGHTS, OH Meeting: 2nd Sunday, 1:00 p.m. Maple Heights Library Hi, my name is Dorothy Lavrenčič Squire. I’m the new reporter for Branch 47, Garfield Heights, Ohio. This is a very difficult position to fill, as sister Mary Taucher did an excellent job for many years and for which we all are eternally grateful. With this help of all the fine ladies of Branch 47, I hope to do as well. Our next meeting will be held Sunday, March 12th, 2000 at the Maple Hts., Library at 1:00 p.m. We will discuss the preparation for our Mother’s Day Luncheon and any other old and/or new business. This past summer, Sister Elsie Lavrenčič entertained a cousin, Frank Kopatin from Podnanos, Slovenia. Frank is a 23-year old college student and volunteer fire-fighter. In addition to visiting Ohio, Frank visited 23 States, also Montreal and Toronto, Canada. His stay in Cleveland included a Sunday picnic at our S.N.P.J. Farm and also at Pristava - which he enjoyed very much. Upon his return to Slovenia he continued his studies at the University of Maribor and graduated in December 1999, receiving a degree in International Trade Relations. We all wish him well and look forward to his return trip. Sister Ann Harsh’s son, Andrew was inducted in the Cuyahoga High School Baseball Hall of Fame. Andrew is an 23-year alumni of Cuyahoga High School. His accomplishments while a student were: most home runs of the season and career, most RBIs in the season and career, and the most valuable player in the Cuyahoga Conference season during his career. He also was on the first team all state in his senior year. Your reporter’s daughter, Paula Squire Erickson, is now residing in Phoenix, AZ, as the result of a career promotion. Her husband, Chap will be joining her as soon as their home in Auburn, Ohio is sold. I wish you all the joys of the coming The Light of Love The eyes of a child light the wannest love in a mother’s heart just as a starburst lights the sky. It brings joy and hope; but also sets before her the most difficult dilemmas. What a child needs from his mother, what a mother gives back to the child, all indicate the direction his life will take. Books have been written on the relationship between mother and child and mother-infant bonding which is the psychological basis for healthy childhood and adulthood. Positive bonding is best served by the technique called “mirroring” which is done by reflecting back to the child the expressions he is giving out from himself. I am a mother who lives with a small child, playing with him, taking care of his anger and stubborn tendencies; it is my role to keep this life, this precious life that has been entrusted to me, a happy, healthy one. He is my son and such a part of me that it seems most difficult to know if I am reading back to him all the things he is asking through his own eyes. Many times I am unsure of myself, I am in my own world, I don’t know how to react to a situation that comes up unexpectedly. What does this child need, and can I give it to him? I have found that there are times my child will solve his own little quandries as best as he can himself. Recently, during the holidays, I was sitting in church during a service, deep in my own thoughts. My son was next to me, playing with his toy animal. He was very quiet until he slipped onto my lap, showed me his toy and said, “ Mommy, I think I will take out one of his eyes and leave the other one in.” A little mortified at this remark, I asked “Why would you do that?” He said, “So I could put a mirror there and look inside of him!” After a moment, I said, “What do you see in my eyes?” Looking at me intently, he said, “Marko!” then gave me a big hug and slid back down to his seat, all his attention again directed to his toy. The child needs a mother who has the kind of eyes in which he can see himself. If mother’s eyes are there for him, that he can look into, he will find the strength, the energy, the feeling of security and the conscious realization of who he is. That is mirroring, that moment, and it is enough to give him his own place to be, his own safety in himself. With the loving reflection in his mother’s eyes, he has the strength to overcome loneliness, and all the anxieties that he must face as he steps into the world. A child cannot master his own feelings that are still forming and becoming more and more complex and intense unless he can see himself in his mother’s eyes, and gets the feeling of protection and calm from them. The experience with Marko in church has left an impression on me that continues. Not long ago I thought of mirroring in my own life by searching for it in the eyes of a loved one. It was both awkward and lovely. What would happen if we would all try again to find ourselves in the eyes of husband, or wife...? WHAT WE CAN LEARN FROM A CHILD’S EYES Our author is a psychologist at the Franciscan Family Counseling Center in Ljubljana, Slovenia. She and her husband, Tomaž Erzar have a darling son, Marko and has agreed to contribute to our ZARJA in the form of short articles that are based on family life. I am certain that the lesson in this article and those to follow will be inspirational and helpful to all of us. It is translated by the Editor from the Slovenian original on the preceding page. KN- -—O' __________________ God bless and reward our beloved departed sisters! We lost these members - June to December, 1999 Branch Name Date of Death Birthdate Membership 1 Olga Slapnik June 8 1914 42 years 2 Mary Omerzo July 30 1914 52 years Mary Pecharich November 20 1906 44 years Sophia Simec June 3 1909 67 years Josephine Sinkovič 1909 58 years 3 Mary Grahek July 8 1920 49 years 5 Mary Huske August 27 1908 48 years 6 Josephine Maver November 25 1902 64 years 8 Johanna Goles July 20 1917 50 years 13 Agnes Lovrin July 18 1906 47 years 16 Mary Bublich October 26 1906 34 years 17 Elsie Valencich May 3 1902 57 years 20 Louise Baucher October 10 1907 59 years Eleanor Smrekar September 14 1926 21 years Justina Gregorich September 27 1898 65 years Lillian Anderson July 11 1908 39 years Theresa Papesh June 23 1904 58 years Josephine Bostanche June 14 1927 54 years 23 Rose Pucel November 12 1917 47 years Ann Saari June 21 1913 60 years 24 Millie Welch November 15 1930 6 years 25 Jennie Rocewicky September 17 1908 57 years Josephine Sustersic June 26 1920 21 years 26 Magdalene Bums November 20 1915 24 years 27 Mary Kucic July 17 1915 65 years 28 Margaret Peterlin September 2 1914 51 years 32 Josephine Kremžar September 21 1910 6 years 38 Rosemary Dropp January 5 1914 53 years Mildred Bashel June 25 1905 65 years 39 Rebecca Potočnik August 14 1942 11 years 40 Helen Kozjan March 18 1923 39 years 47 Mary Konzut August 24 1908 32 years 50 Ivana Kodrich October 10 1914 35 years Antonia Jersan October 10 1911 32 years Anna Kosten November 17 1924 17 years Jane Somrak September 4 1912 52 years 55 Jennie Selak August 16 1905 50 years 68 Irene Nosse July 11 1929 35 years 71 Frances Tomsic November 24 1907 58 years 73 Mary Chesnik October 19 1910 63 years 89 Fran Kirbach November 15 1923 50 years 93 Katherine Brodarich May 3 1906 60 years 95 Kate Musa August 18 1904 44 years Bemice Golden August 22 1907 38 years Manda Nosich September 25 1917 45 years 96 Mary Petemel February 16 1907 60 years 100 Amelia Skraba July 23 1919 60 years 105 Frances Hostnik October 7 1912 36 years 106 Julia Bulkoski July 6 1916 51 years Louise Demsar April 5 1915 34 years NO. 55, GIRARD, OH Meeting: 3rd Wed., 7-8 p.m. “Then he said to Thomas, ‘Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe.’’’John 20:27NIV Happy Easter!! We look forward to Spring and Easter. This time of year reminds us of how much God loves us because He sent His Son, Jesus, to die for our sins. Then on Easter Christ rose from the dead to give to us eternal life. What an AWESOME God!!! Our first meeting of the New Millennium is Wednesday, March 1, 2000, 7:00 p.m. at 1058 Susan Lane, Girard. We look forward to seeing you. April birthdays: Jason Sefcik, Virginia Bestic. JOAN KRISTIN TWADDLE NO. 73, WARRENSVILLE, OH Meeting: Mar.-Apr.-May-June Aug.-Oct.-Nov.-Dec. Sec’y. Epley’s Home 20294 Emery Rd., No Randall As I sit at the computer, I am trying to suppress the urge to take out a string of Christmas lights and drape them in the front window. There is 8-10 inches of fluffy new snow in the backyard, and more coming down. We were denied this weather during the holidays, and the 1000 lights on my tree looked a bit out-of-place coupled with the green lawn and shrubbery. Bitter cold is accompanying the snowfall. But it is beautiful. The one item that does fit into the setting is a poinsettia plant that has a story behind it. In December, 1998, as I was leaving the Christmas party given by Branch 47, Olga Dorchak handed me the plant that was used as a centerpiece. I took it home, put it in my front window and it flourished beyond belief. The leaves spread, and long after the red “blooms” were gone, it continued to grow. I placed the plant on the patio where it did even better. It was knocked over by wind/rain storms, yard creatures took turns in nibbling at it and still it grew. In the fall, I brought it inside to the cold basement and set it in a sink. There it stayed. I picked A SPLENDID TRIP TO SLOVENIA WILLARD, WI - The last issue of ZARJA was so interesting, we kept reading and re-reading about beautiful Slovenia, the Pope’s mass at Maribor and the beatification of Bishop Slomšek! I learned something about him I did not realize before, that Slomšek worked so hard to preserve our Slovenian language. I am very proud of our heritage f Am so glad you completed your mission to visit Mrs. Prisland’s home, which is near my own home at Gornji Grad. I have the highest regard for Mrs. Prisland as she was the one who liberated the Slovenian women who came to this country, so strange to them all, and created a chance for them to socialize with other women and share their joys and hardships. They, too, needed someone to confide in, not the men who socialized by meeting at the local “gostilna” where they could relax, singing the songs of their homeland, Slovenia! As for the Slovenian Women’s Union now, my sin-cerest wishes go to all the new officers in their efforts to keep this organization going strong, in honor of our forefathers, or should I say, foremothers! They deserve to be remembered. We will have to make a better effort to get the younger generation interested in joining us, which seems easier said than done! My husband, Vitko and I also traveled to Slovenia last fall, especially for the beatification ceremony in Maribor, and to take our daughter and her husband on a sight-seeing trip to show them the places where we were bom. (My hometown and Vitko’s which is a little place called Letuš, were wonderful to see again. In Moziije we stayed at a bed and breakfast, comfortable and reasonably priced.) We had the opportunity to see many mountains and vineyards all the way from Frankfurt to Slovenia, driving in a rental car. AH in all, it was a very interesting trip. The Holy Pope John Paul beatified Anton Martin Slomšek, Sept. 19, 1999, Maribor, Slovenia -photo taken by my husband, Vitko Father’s Mass and the ceremony of beatification of Bishop Slomšek was definitely the highlight of the trip. Seeing Venice was different and seeing almost all of our cousins again was very nice, too, since it may have been for the last time. Now it’s time for Grandma and Grandpa to stay around home and count our blessings among our own families and grandchildren and great grandchildren. We extend all the best wishes for a happy new year to our ZARJA readers and members of SWU. Mary Staut Member of Br. 102 up the leaves as they dropped, but it did have life, and I gave it an occasional drink of water, and literally forgot about it. One day in December, a bit of red caught my eye. Lo and behold, color was coming from the plant. I brought it upstairs, placed it in some sunlight and watched it flourish again. One full bloom returned, and about 20- 30 other leaves are red. I am watching it closely, and it will be given tender care. It will be interesting to see what happens. Frances Cazin is treating another boo-boo. This was a real “ouch”. Fran slammed her car door on her finger, removing the tip including the entire nail. Her sister (Angie Musil) took her to the ER where surgery was performed to finish the amputation. Doctors inquired as to where the tip of the finger could be. The sisters could not find it - however, Fran did find it the next day, it was still in the finger of the glove she was wearing at the time. Hope all is better by now, Fran. We want to wish a Happy First Birthday to Jacob Rees. We neglected to acknowledge his birth on April 2,1999. He is the son of David and Angie (Musil) Rees and the brother of Maxwell who will turn 3 on March 15th. He is also the grandson of our Treasurer, Angie Musil. It’s your first birthday in the New Millennium; we pray that you will celebrate many more. Branch No. 73 lost a true friend in our Social Member, Judy Tintera. Judy passed away on December 14th at a local nursing home. We always enjoyed her company and our deepest sympathy is extended to her family. Our next meeting is scheduled for March 6th (Angie and I will be enjoying some Florida sunshine at that time) with the April meeting set for the 3rd. Our anniversary Mass will be April 30th, 10:30 a.m., St. Jude’s Church. Please try to attend - K of C breakfast will follow in the Church hall. PERSONAL NOTE: At the time my husband passed away (1996) those who attended his funeral were amazed to learn that over a period of about 50-60 years Steve had written poems. These are inspirational reflections and meditations. Our oldest son compiled all the material and it has been published. It is available for sale at www.buybook-sondtheweb.com. or by calling Toll Free 877-Buy-Book. I do have a few copies available, if you are interested, the cost is $10.00 (includes postage). All monies received go to “Mary’s World,” a not-for-profit organization that will benefit children, particularly those who are homeless or orphaned. I can be contacted at my residence, 31 Eldred Avenue, Bedford, Ohio 44146. Stay well. An early Happy Easter to all of you. EVELYN A. MAJERCIK Tram Our ‘Heritage ‘Kitcfwas E33333333333^E333333333333333 Veda (Ponikvar: Our diligeflt Food Editor is recovering from surgery this month and we wish her a very speedy return to perfect health! We are enjoying your selection of recipes, Veda, and look forward to even more delightful dishes in the future! Tuna Cheese Spread Just terrific on crackers or as a dip for carrots and celery sticks. Can also be used for a sandwich. 1 pkg. (8 oz. Cream cheese softened 1 can (6 oz.) tuna, drained and flaked l/i cup finely sliced green onions l/i cup mayonnaise 1 tbls. lemon juice 3/< tsp. curry powder Dash of salt Bread or crackers In a bowl, combine the first seven ingredients. Mix well, spread on bread or crackers or use as a dip with carrots and celery. Yield: 2 cups. Cinnamon Crackle Cookies Your family and neighbors will bless you for this yummy cookie. lli cup butter, (no substitutes). softened, 1;2 cup shortening 1 cup sugar 1/i cup packed brown sugar 1 egg 1 tsp. vanilla extract l,i tsp. almond extract 2l/i cups all purpose flour 1 tbls. ground cinnamon 2 tsps. baking soda 2 tsps. cream of tartar 2 tsps. ground nutmeg 2 tsps. grated orange peel 1 tsp. grated lemon peel lU tsp. salt additional sugar In a mixing bowl, cream butter, shortening and sugars. Add egg and extracts, mix and combine the next eight ingredients, and gradually add to the creamed mixture. Shape in 1 inch balls and roll in sugar. Place 2 inches apart on ungreased baking sheets. Bake at 350 degrees for 10 to 15 minutes, or until lightly browned. Yield. About 6 dozen. Herb Dinner rolls Turn out these tender yeast rolls for any occasion and watch them disappear. The secret is in the herbs that season the dough. 1 package (>74 ounce) active dry yeast 1;4 cup warm water (110 to 115 degrees) 3/4 cup warm milk 2 tablespoons sugar 2 tablespoons butter or other shortening 1 egg beaten 2 teaspoons celery seed 1 teaspoon rubbed sage 1 teaspoon salt x'i teaspoon ground nutmeg 3 to 3^2 cups all purpose flour Melted butter or margarine In a mixing bowl dissolve yeast in water. Add milk, sugar, shortening, egg, celery seed, sage, salt, nutmeg and 3 cups of flour. Beat until smooth. Add enough remaining flour to form a soft dough. Turn onto a floured surface and knead until smooth and elastic, about 6 to eight minutes. Place in greased bowl, turning once to grease top. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 to l!/i hours. Punch dough down; let rest 10 minutes. Shape into 30 balls; place on greased baking sheets. Cover and let rise until doubled, about 45 minutes. Brush tops with melted butter. Bake at 375 degrees for 10 to 12 minutes or until lightly golden-browned. Cool on wire rack. Yield: doz. Poppy Seed Chicken By Anne Leibfried of Chisholm Branch 38 6 chicken breasts (Schwann’s) 1 can cream of chicken soup 1 can cream of celery soup 1 roll of Ritz or Club Crackers, crushed and mixed with one stick of butter or margarine 2 or 3 tsp. poppy seeds Spray 7 x 13 pan and put chicken breasts over the bottom of pan. Combine soups and sour cream and pour over chicken. Combine melted butter, cracker crumbs and poppy seed and pour over the chicken and soups. Bake 45 to 60 minutes uncovered. Ann uses more butter and crumbs. Roasted Asparagus Salad This is a real favorite with people of all ethnic origins-and very good. 3 pounds fresh asparagus trimmed 1;4 cup olive or vegetable oil 2 garlic cloves minced Dressing: ]/4 cup olive or vegetable oil 1 tablespoon apple cider or red wine vinegar 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard 1 teaspoon lemon juice 1 tablespoon snipped fresh tarragon or 1 teaspoon dried tarragon 1;2 teaspoon salt 1;s teaspoon pepper Place asparagus in a 13x9x2 inch baking dish coated with non-stick spray. Combine oil and garlic, pour over asparagus and turn to coat. Bake uncovered at 400 degrees for 20-25 minutes or until tender, rotating asparagus in the pan after 10 minutes. Cool completely. Combine dressing ingredients, pour over asparagus and tum to coat. Serve immediately or allow to marinate. Serve at room temperature. Yield: 12 servings. NO. 85, DEPUE, IL Meeting: at Members’ Homes Branch 85 held the November meeting with 7 members present, five of them with the name Mary. It was good having Mary Suarez and Mary Oberch back with us. We missed our member, Pearl Drennan who was in the hospital. A card was signed and sent to her. We hope she is feeling much better. We were happy to present 50-year membership pins to four of our members. Mary Suarez and Mildred Lavrin each have 57 years; Mary Benkus, 53 years and Jackie Barto, 50 years. Jackie has been a member since she was a baby! Congratulations to Barry DeBord, grandson of Ann DeBord who was honored at the State Football Finals for his selection to the Illinois High School Football Coaches Association, Class 5A All-State Team. Barry was the quarterback on the Bloomington High School team and was also picked as most valuable player. We hope all our members stay well so we can all get together often in the new year. God bless. MARY JERMENC NO. 100, FONTANA, CA It has been an extremely dry winter so far in Southern California. It hardly seems like we have had any winter at all. Of course, winter for us just means a little cooler weather and perhaps having to carry an umbrella a few times a month. But this year we haven’t even had to do that. Our Branch had a delightful Christmas Party and annual meeting on December 19th. It was well attended by 31 members and guests. We met at the lovely Napoli Italian Restaurant in San Bernardino for lunch and then proceeded to the Vidergar home for additional sweets and socializing. Prior to the lunch, Anne Kapel, our president, conducted our meeting which consisted of election of officers for the year 2000. The following were elected or re-elected by acclamation: Anne Kapel, president; MaryLou Vidergar, Vice-president; Rosemary Mlakar, treasurer; Teresa Koci, historian; and Jean Koci, recorder. We dis- cussed our upcoming Mexican cruise with a short presentation by our member/travel agent, Mary Lou Height. Applications for two adult members and three junior members were taken at this meeting. Perhaps this is the beginning of a period of growth. We hope so! I personally was interested in the Josephine Račič message of sympathy in the last issue. As a child in the Chicago area, I remember visiting the Račič family with my mother, Mici (or Marija) Cukale. She and Josephine were close friends in the early 1920’s. They continued the friendship after they married and I recall going over there when I was a little girl in the 1940’s. I enjoyed being with the Račič girls although they were older than I. I was sad when they moved from Chicago. Mom often talked about Josephine and Ivan whose company she enjoyed so much when she lived in the St. Stephen’s neighborhood and took part in the plays and activities of the young adults during those early years. I have since lost touch with the daughters of Josephine and Ivan, but perhaps they remember my family as I remember theirs. I will write a personal note and hope that it can be forwarded to one of the Račič girls, just for old times sake. Members, please let me know what is going on it your lives so that we can include it in this column. Until next time... JEAN CUKALE KOCI (949) 495-0097 NO. 102, WILLARD, WI Meeting: When convenient Parish Center January brought birthday cold weather, icy roads and lots of snow. We hope that now we will have some relief. Mayme Kezele left for Chicago in mid-November to spend the winter with her daughter and two sons. She plans to return to her home in Willard in April. Bill Snedic, Mary Ann and Ron Wonderlein spent about 10 days in Santa Fe, New Mexico in early December. We held a meeting on Dec. 12th, beginning with a potluck lunch. Elec- tion of officers was held with the same officers being elected. Aggie Debevec was named Mother of the Year. She will be honored at our spring meeting. It was moved and carried at the meeting to give a gift of $50 to Jeremiah Bogdonovich. He is studying to become a priest. A bake sale was held at the Holy Family Parish for his benefit. He is a seminarian at Immaculate Heart of Mary in Winona, MN. Wendy Klancher recently joined Br. 103, in Washington, D.C. New members are always welcome. Congratulations to all of them. Father Dick Bayuk of Chicago spent Christmas with his parents. He offered masses at Holy Family Church over the Christmas holidays. We planned a potluck lunch in February and will report on it next time. Roberta Herrick, Patricia and Amber Klinke made a two-week trip to Ecuador in February with a group to work in hospitals and giving medical care to the sick. The following deaths occurred recently: Mercedes Liebzeit, John J. (Wobbly) Trunkel and Mary (Fortuna) Savage. Our sympathy to their families. United in marriage on Jan. 8th were Amy Klancher and Dave Furlong. Their immediate family members attended the ceremony in Las Vegas. Our best wishes to them. Remember in your prayers those in hospitals, nursing homes and those who are ill at home. Wishes to them for good health. FRIEDA KLANCHER NO. 103, WASHINGTON, D.C. Meeting: 1st Sun. except July & Aug St. Columba’s Ch. Albemarle St. By now we are well into the new millennium and, hopefully, everyone has adjusted to this historical venture. Our meeting on December 5, 1999 was enjoyable, not only for the sociability, but also for business matters. The new slate of officers was elected and plans discussed for future events. We were delighted to welcome a new Branch 103 member, AnaSonc-Tevtič. Ana gave a very interesting background of herself, then suggested those present do the same. What a great idea getting to know each other much better, and to realize we all have very interesting lives, yet so different. Thanks to hostesses Donna Sheridan and Tillie Au-sich for the tasty snacks; also thanks to Mary LouTerselic for her contribution. On Sunday, January 2, 2000, Rev. Father Raymond Wadas, our Spiritual Advisor, officiated at the installation of officers after Mass at the Slovenian Chapel in the Shrine of the Immaculate Conception. Once again, let’s all offer our prayers for those who are indisposed, especially Freda Michelitch, Sabina Bartol, Mary Lou Terselic’s father, and to Mary Lou’s two grandchildren. We hope everyone truly enjoyed a happy Christmas and a safe and happy New Year. Best wishes to all SWU members. MATILDA AUSICH NEW MEMBERS ARE ALWAYS WELCOME! tet ZfiFUfi donations! Generous members of Br. 20, Joliet have made a large donation to the ZARJA Fund and their members, individually, have also contributed. Sincere thanks. $400 Br. 20, Joliet, IL; $40 Josephine Lustik (20); $20 Theresa Papesh (20). Also, thanks for a Memorial Donation: $50 Ann Tercek (50). Thanks, American Airlines! With the exciting prize of two free tickets offered in our Anniversary Raffle, the SWU gained $2,322.00 for ZARJA Fundi Thanks to you, our members, for supporting this fund-raiser. And, thanks to Nat’l. Secretary, Bonnie Prokup for making all the arrangements, and doing all the ticket-gathering I Hi, Teen-buddies! It’s me, Julie! As we approach spring, we all think: SPRING CLEANING!! Really not meant for us kids, more for our parents right? WRONG! We’re old enough, we can at least fulfill spring cleaning in our own bedrooms! It’s the little things that we do around the house that our parents really notice, believe it or not. Sometimes the smallest words such as, “Mom/Dad, let me do that for you,” really can get you that extra dollar for your allowance, or maybe even the car for the weekend. It all depends upon how your parents work the rules in your house. I know that you all are thinking. “Boy, Julie is a major kiss-up.” I’ll be the first to admit to it. If I need the car, or can use the extra buck, I will bust my tush in order to show to my parents that I am willing to work hard and show them that I deserve what I am working for. I can speak for every teen when I saw chores stink. But, there are those things in life that you really have to work around in order to achieve certain things, whether it be a higher allowance, or the next higher position available at your company. That speech all led up to the tip of the month! This month’s tip is: “Work hard, it’s really easy!” It’s almost as if I am contradicting myself. Using two complete opposites, easy and hard, and saying that they are compatible! Let me tell you, my parents have always told me that if I do what I am told, then I won’t get in any trouble; and that I should have no reason to be grounded or have privileges taken away. Well, Julie (that’s me!), was a rebel, and decided to do things when she was good and ready. Time after time, my privileges and my socializing time was getting chopped. To be blunt, my parents were right. To have them hear me say that ??? must make them think, “I told ‘ya so!” Believe it or not, parents are right. Eventually we all come upon an instance in our life where we learn that they are right, and it kills us inside, but yet it’s reality. Basically, do what you’re told, when you’re told, and your parents will think higher of you, and begin to build more trust. The end of the school year is approaching us fast. (Thankfully!) Getting ready for finals again, (if you are in high school) is easier for me this second semester. I look at it this way, the sooner I study for these exams, the sooner I am out of here until next September. Think of it that way, if it helps you. Well, enjoy the beginning to the warmer weather, and I hope you all stay safe, have fun, and good luck with all that you do! Love Ya Lots and Always, Julie 2000 ^faankle Spetick °o° °o° °o° 2o2 Join me for Button Box classes. Everyone has fun! Minnesota....Frankenmuth Cleveland ....Milwaukee ^ For details & reservations Call 1-330-336-9196 or write Keyboard Cue Corporation PO BOX 564 Barberton OH 44203 §: IM usic for the Button Box 5 Books & Cassettes ^Acco^tiivns^ /?• š&eUzjuMjjVAlLlbU ANTON MARTIN SLOMŠEK: DEVIŠKI VENEC. Jezusu spleten iz sedmih žlahtnih rožic dekliškega stanu. (Iz »Krščanskega devištva«. Odlomki.) Po nekaterih krajih imajo deklice navado o svetih nedeljah in praznikih v poletnem času z rožicami venčati podobo križanega Jezusa, zato, menim, da bi mu izkazale svojo ljubezen. Ali še lepši venec Jezusu opletati iz rožic, ki cvetijo poleti in pozimi in ne obletijo vekomaj, uči se, krščanska deklica, iz sedmih svetih rožic deviških čednosti. S trdno stanovitnostjo jih boš sadila, s srčno molitvijo polivala, da bodo lepo cvetele v tvojem poštenem vedenju. - Poklekni zatorej, kadar utegneš, v cerkvi ali pa doma pred podobo Jezusovo in reci iz živega srca: Molitev in obljuba krščanske device. Sedem nebeških rožic svetih deviških čednosti hočem zasaditi v svoje srce, z njimi lepšati tvoje prebivališče in skrbeti, da se nobena ne posuši, da čednost, ki tebi ugaja, ne umrje v mojem srcu. 1. Prva rožica naj bo bela lilija, podoba čiste nedolžnosti. 2. Druga roža mojega srca naj bo modra vijolica, ki le na skrivnem rada cvete, z žlahtnim duhom napolnjuje svoj kraj, ponižnosti zala, čedna podoba. 3. Tretja roža moje čednosti naj bo sinja potočnica; lepa podoba pobožnosti ali bogaboječnosti. 4. Četrta roža moja naj bo žlahtni nagelj, lepa podoba drage pridnosti. 5. Petarožica mojega življenja naj bo sinja potočnica, lepa podoba zadovoljnosti. 6. Šesta rožica naj bo rdeča vrtnica, vidni spomin potrpežljivosti. 7. Sedma roža čednosti mojega srca naj bo vesela solnčnica, podoba božje ljubezni. Teh sedem rožic mojega srca vzemi, o Jezus, naj bodo tebi prijeten dar! S temi čednostmi hočem lepšati svoje življenje, iz teh rožic tebi spletati deviški venec, dokler boš enkrat, ženin moj, mi dal zanj krono večnega življenja, ki živiš in kraljuješ z Bogom Očetom in svetim Duhom vekomaj. Amen. - nikova - Maksim Gaspari: Barvanje pirhov Easter eggs are called PIRHE in Slovenia, if they are colored with only one tint; if they are designed with Easter symbols they are called PISANICE. In Slovenia, the family always enjoyed having eggs to color and, on Easter Monday, to play with in games such as hitting two eggs together. Peelings were sometimes spread around the farmhouse to protect the house from snakes; chickens were also given the peels to nibble. But the best was to eat them, ceremoniously! Easter Traditions in Slovenia may be found on page 319 in the MORE POTS AND PANS cookbook. The section on Easter also includes recipes for Easter Scones and “Alleluja” soup, a hearty old, traditional fare. NEW S.W.U. COOKBOOK! Muke checks payable to: Slovenian Women's Union (or S.W.U.) Mail to: 431 North Chicago Street Joliet. IL 60432 Please allow three weeks for delivery Dedicated to Hermine Dicke Enjoy it and share it with your family and friends The PERFECT gift for all occasions Features of the NEW cookbook include: 600 Great Recipes with easy formats 171 NEW recipes from our members Place your order now -$18.00 per book, postpaid AUTHENTIC SLOVENIAN RECIPES: Favorites of three generations Detailed Instructions Origins of regional recipes Historical Information Maps and notes of interest! Heritage illustrations by renowned artist, Nancy Bukovnik vetA VERA BODI VAM LUČ KNJIGA 0 SLOMŠKU ZBORNIK OB STOLETNICI SMRTI Sestavila: Janez Poljanec in Franc Hrastelj Celje, 1962 -nadaljevanje- Priljubil se je ljudem, svojim podrejenim kot nadrejenim. Razvil je izredno knjižno dejavnost. Že v Celovcu je napisal: »Življenja srečen pot« za mladeniče, a za dekleta »Krščansko devištvo«, za bogoslovce vaje v govorništvu, za otroke pa »Prijetne pripovedi«, »Kratkočasne pravljice«, »Sedem novih pripovedk«, »Dober dan«, »Dve lepi reči« ter »Hrano evangeljskih naukov« poleg Ahaclovih »Pesni po Koroškem in Štajerskem znane« in zato je bil od škofijstva priporočen za to mesto v Vuzenici: »Z mnogoterimi knjigami za mladino in s pridigami, katere je dal v tisku na svetlo, koristno pospešuje odgtojo pri mladini in pri odraslih«. V Vuzenici pa je poleg omenjenega učbenika »Blaže in Nežica« izdal: »Spomin slovenski svojim nekdanjim učencem in prijateljem«, »Apostolsko hrano« in druge verske knjige. KANONIK IN ŠKOF Že leta 1844 je bil Slomšek imenovan za kanonika in višjega šolskega nadzornika v lavantinski škofiji. Sedaj je bil še bolj zaposlen s šolami, ki jih je urejal, širil, prenavljal, učiteljem pa pomagal in svetoval, kolikor je mogel in znal. Leta 1846 pa je postal celjski opat. Spet ga je škofijstvo za to mesto toplo priporočilo: »Ta prosilec se odlikuje po zmožnostih in neutrudljivi marljivosti, po duševni in naravstveni izobrazbi, po odkritosrčnem verskem prepričanju ter po neomahljivi možatosti svojega značaja.« Slomšku je bila izpolnjena davna želja, da pride v Celje, ki mu je še izza dijaških let prirastlo k srcu in ga je imel za takratno kulturno središče slovenskega Štajerja. Po smrti lavantinskega škofa Kutnarja je leta 1846 imenoval nadškof Schwarzenberg Slomška za njegovega naslednika, ki si je izbral geslo: »Vse v večjo čast božjo in zveličanje duš«. Takoj na začetku svojega škofovanja se je zavzel za prestavitev škofijskega sedeža iz Št. Andraža v Maribor, vendar je to mogel doseči šele leta 1859. S tem dejanjem je bil rešen slovenstvu ves levi dravski breg z okoli 200.000 Slovenci. Dotlej so spadali pod graško (sekavsko) škofijo okraji: Maribor, Haloze in župnije do bližine celjskega mesta: hočka, slivniška, zavrčka, marenberška, jareninska, ptujska, šentlenarška, ljutomerska in velikonedeljska dekanija. Kmalu po posvečenju, ki mu ga je podelil salzburški nadškof, so ga v Celovcu slovesno sprejeli. Tedaj je bil med bogoslovci tudi poznejši njegov kanonik in življenjepisec Franc Kosar, ki mu je na takratni slovesni prireditvi, ko so ga pozdravljali v latinskem, nemškem in slovenskem jeziku, spesnil slovensko prigodico. Lavantinski bogoslovci so se že od leta 1811 vzgajali v Celovcu. Slomšku je bilo že 1850 dovoljeno, da so prišli bogoslovci zadnjega letnika v Št. Andraž, kjer jih je na graščini Thum učil med drugim tudi sadjarstva, čebelarstva in poljedelstva. Ko je začel z letniki bogoslovja, je 1847 osnoval Podporno društvo za uboge dijake lavantinske škofije in tudi v Celju leta 1850 postavil hišo za deško semenišče, ki je dobilo leta 1852 ime Maximilianum, kjer se je vzgajalo po 16 dijakov brezplačno, v Mariboru pa leta 1859 Victorinum, v katerem je bilo 10 dijakov zastonj. Oba zavoda sta se pod njegovim naslednikom Stepišnikom združila leta 1877. Na Veliko gospojnico 1859. leta se je Slomšek poslovil od šentandraške stolice, kjer so nad 600 let vladali lavantinski škofje. Delo v zvezi s selitvijo mu je povzročilo marsikatero težavo in skrb, in je bilo nedvomno zanj zadnje večje breme, saj ni zastonj ob preselitvi vzdihnil: »Sedaj bom pa tu laže umrl!« Ustanovil je tudi več verskih društev in bratovščin, med njimi je najznameniteljša Bratovščina sv. Cirila in Metoda, saj ga je bolelo, da je Cerkev razcepljena na dva dela in je ta nesreča posebno prizadela Slovane, ki jih je bilo tako več kot dve tretjini ločenih. Zato je bil tudi v Rimu, ki ga je obiskal tik pred smrtjo leta 1862, imenovan za »prisednika apostolskega sedeža in meščana rimskega mesta«. nadaljevanje Ann*s Great Grandchildren Ann Tercek of Euclid, Ohio, Br. 50 would like us to meet her two great grandchildren, Elizabeth, 10 months old, and Andrew, age 3, the children of Sharon and Gary Gillen. Of course, they are members of Br. 50. Ann’s granddaughter, Sharon is a recipient of an SWU Scholarship (1983) and is a nurse at University Hospitals in Cleveland. BRINGING JOY IN A GRANDMOTHER S LIFE! Happy Birthday! Juliana Veronika (above) has a birthday this month -March 1st. She’s one year old! Her brothers, Matthew Erik (center) and Thomas John, 4 and 3 years old respectively, complete the happy family of Bernadette and Tim Fitzsimmons who live in Gaithersburg, Maryland. They are members of Br. 103 in Washington, D.C. Their loving grandmother is Nika Kovacic. Mom, Bernadette is a former National Director of Youth Activities and her designs for beautiful all-occasion greeting cards are now available from the SWU Home Office. Thanks to her for donating the proceeds back to SWU. Right top photo shows Ann Leskovar with her two friends, Fern, an 8 month old calf, and Starlight, Fern’s mom. Ann will be 12 year old this month, and loves taking care of her animals. She’s also a busy girl with soccer and horseback riding her favorite sports. Her brother, Daniel (14-1/2) is a whizz at hockey, playing in a local youth league; David (center), is 6-1/2 and following in his big brother’s footsteps, playing in a little kids’ league. Little Matija (4 next month) is not too far behind in this exceptionally athletic family. They are the children of Lud and Diana Leskovar and live in Norwich, Vermont; members since birth of Br. 2, Chicago. High Achievers in Sports REMEMBERING THE FLORIDA CONVENTION.. National President, Kathleen Dor-chak and Convention Keynote Speaker, Linda Ford were among these presented red carnation bouquets by our Florida member, Pat Hagemeier. Convention Delegates last May enjoyed a visit to the eastern coastal region of Florida, where they were warmly welcomed at the Slovenian Home in Samsula. A delicious menu, including exotic vegetables such as white beets, was offered by gracious hosts, members of SNPJ there. Dancing music rounded out the “picnic”! Thanks to all our Florida members and friends, especially Jeanette Humphrey of Lodge 603. Br. 20 group had a great time at the Polynesian Village, from left, Bea Nemanich, Ann Dragovan, Dorothy Koncar, Char Kobe and Jonita Ruth. Marge Church, right with Jonita Ruth - during just a moment’s respite! Heritage Annuity Traditional IRA jssdtoftte* Competitive Rates Roth IRA Long-Term Growth Tax-Deferred Savings Fraternal Benefits Guaranteed Income lQw Minimum A Financial Family That Feels Like Home Home Office: 2439 Glenwood Avenue ♦ Joliet, IL 60435 ♦ (800) 843-5755 E-Mail: KSKJLife @ AOL.COM APPLICATION SLOVENIAN WOMEN’S UNION OF AMERICA SLOVENSKA ZENSKA ZVEZA V AMERIKI New Adult Member Annual Dues: $15.00 Junior Member (Birth to 18) Annual Dues $5.00 Last Name Maiden Name First Name and Initial Address City State Zip Code Date of Birth Age Place of Birth Descendant of which nationality Marital Status Applicant's signature: Branch affiliation No. Applicant recommended by: Place: To expedite your application for membership please remit annual dues and mail with this application form to: SLOVENIAN WOMEN’S UNION 431 No. Chicago St., Joliet, IL 60432 Tel. (815) 727-1926 Please make checks payable to Slovenian Women’s Union Date: Branch No.: FOR OFFICE USE: Date Received: ______________ Certificate No. _____________ Branch Affiliate: APPLICATION CHANGES FOR THE YEAR 2000 AND BEYOND Above is a copy of our new SWU Membership Application for anyone joining now, after January 1, 2000. The application was updated by eliminating any information that applied to insurance benefits. You will notice that it is very simple to read and fill out. Anyone joining SWU after the New Year will be known as either an Adult Member or Junior Member. No longer will we enroll Class A, B or Social members. Those terms were used when insurance benefits were issued. PLEASE NOTE! All adult memberships prior to January 1, 2000 will still be classified as a Class A, B, Social member, only in regards to their insurance benefits which still apply to them. All new members will be given a number, and of course, the first new member of the New Millennium will be issued the number 2000! You can obtain a copy of the application from one of the following: Your Branch President, National Secretary, Home Office, or make a copy of the application form above. GOD IS MISSING! From the Youth Director Angela Stare: Let’s focus on the youth of S. W.U. Warmest greetings and best wishes to all members of the Slovenian Women’s Union at the beginning of the new millennium! A special greeting and welcome to all of our junior members as we embark on a great and promising adventure in SWU. As your new Junior Activities Director I would like to share some thoughts on how to strengthen the role of our youth in this great organization. My main objective is to increase the number of junior members and thus help to stop the erosion of SWU membership. I suggest that each branch appoint a Junior Activity liaison who can work with me in achieving our goals. Please submit to me the name and contact information at tel. (301) 229-7587 or fax (301) 229-8149. I intend to send a questionnaire to all branches to establish the status of youth membership and to receive their ideas (improvement, new activities, how to increase membership). Here are a few of my own suggestions for youth activities: Organize pilgrimages and tours (e.g., National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, D.C.; Slovenian Cultural Center in Lemont, IL; youth camps in Slovenia). Increase awareness of Slovenian heritage by providing videos, books, articles to branches. Write and solicit articles for the Youth Page in ZARJA. I hope that, together, we will develop these ideas further and implement them. Something about me: I was bom in Austria of Slovenian parents who fled communism. My father was from Golnik near Kranj and my mother was from the beautiful town of Bled. I came to the United States at the age of five with my parents, two brothers and two sisters. Several years after our arrival two more sisters joined our family. We all speak the Slovenian language. My family and I lived in Northern Minnesota - the Iron Range - where my father was employed at the Erie Mining Company. My mother was a homemaker taking care of the seven children. I presently live in Maryland, near Washington, D.C., and it is in this area that I learned of SWU and became a member of Br. 103. My husband, who is also Slovenian bom, and I have two children: a boy and a girl. I teach my young children to speak the Slovenian language. Usually once a year, we visit Slovenia where we have numerous relatives. A couple had two little boys, ages 8 and 10, who were excessively mishievous. They were always getting into trouble and their parents knew that if any mischief occurred in their town their sons were probably involved. The boys’ mother heard that a clergyman in town had been successful in disciplining children, so she asked if he would speak with her boys. The clergyman agreed, but asked to see them individually. So the mother sent her 8-year-old first, in the morning, with the older boy to see the clergyman in the afternoon. The clergyman, a huge man with a booming voice, sat the younger boy down and asked him sternly, “Where is God?” The boy’s mouth dropped open, but he made no response, sitting there with his mouth hanging open, wide-eyed. So the clergyman raised his voice even more and shook his finger in the boy’s face and bellowed, “WHERE IS GOD!?” The boy screamed and bolted from the room, ran directly home and dove into his closet, slamming the door behind him. When his older brother found him in the closet, he asked, “What happened?” The younger brother, gasping for breath, replied, “We are in BIG trouble this time, dude. God is missing - and they think WE did it!” SLOVENIANS PICK THEIR OWN MILLENNIUM GREATS! Top Millennium figure according to recent popular vote polls is France Prešeren (1800-1849), Slovenia’s Poet Laureate. During his lifetime, his sonnets and other lyrical love-poems gained great popularity and are reprinted in not only Slovenian, but many other languages, including English. Prešeren also showed a masterful talent for inspiring patriotism as seen in his Zdravljica, the poem that has become Slovenia’s national anthemn. Second on the list of Millennium greats is Primož Trubar (1508-1586), author of the first printed book in 1550. He is the father of Slovenian printed literature, beginning with his translation of the bible into Slovenian in 1550 and published the first Slovenian songbook with notes in 1567. Anton Martin Slomšek (1800-1862) won the third place. We have just celebrated his elevation to sainthood with his beatification Sept. 19, 1999. His life as the Bishop of Maribor was dedicated to the educational and religious culture of Slovenians. He is credited with saving the Slovenian church in northwestern Slovenia from germanization, and promoting a rational form of nationalism that was praised by Pope John Paul II as the exemplary form which other nations should follow. Angela Stari PERIODICALS POSTAGE PAID JOLIET ILLINOIS HOMES IN THE JOLIET AREA COLDWELL BANKER HONIG-BELL Realty Office: (815) 744-1000 Voice Mail (815) 773-6006x114 Rose Ruth Joliet, Illinois Area Realtor “Start the new Millennium in a new Home” At Your Service During Life’s Most Difficult Moments Louis “Ron" Zefran Connie Rodriguez Frank J. Zefran Lois M. Zefran Debbie Zefran Jerry 1-800-249-9150 (773) 847-6688 czJ-forris., 1941 West Cermak Road, Chioago, IL 60608 ZELE FUNERAL HOMES, INC. 452 East 152nd St., Cleveland, Ohio (216) 481-3118 First Midwest Bank National AtnMon 50 W. Jefferson Street Joliet, Illinois 60431 <£> (815 727-5222 jgj TRAVEL EXPERTS since 1923! Kollander World Travel All Airlines ♦ Cruise Lines ♦ Destinations Worldwide 77 years of Experience Polka Tours Calendar Internet Airline Booking on website Kollander World Travel 971 E. 185th Street ♦ Cleveland, OH 44119 1-800-800-5981 www.kollander-travel.coin ---------------------------------------------------- SWU COOKBOOK A PERFECT GIFT! Our new SWU Cookbook, MORE POTS AND PANS, is a great addition to your cooking library! The book gives your instructions, tells you how to make the dishes that your mom and grandmom made, gives you the skills and knowledge to make you an expert in Slovenian cooking, plus... lots of wonderful and simple recipes for every day. Your family will love tasting soup made with dumplings - how about Veal Soup that is a meal in itself - or salads of mixed greens including dandelion (dandelion!?!) - lots of variations with cabbage, and other vegetables, pastas, meats. Recipes of the most delectable pastries are featured. Wouldn’t it be easier to follow a detailed recipe for Potica instead of begging grandmom to spell it out for you when she makes it with “a little of this and a little of that?” You can become your own expert at Krofi (donuts) using the MORE POTS AND PANS cookbook. Pictures also help if you need to see how strudel dough looks when its stretched. TO ORDER YOUR COOKBOOK send $18 by mail to the Slovenian Women’s Union, 431 No. Chicago St., Joliet, IL 60432 and your copy will be sent right out! You can call for more information, (815) 727-1926. A LONELY PLANET TRAVEL BOOK BY STEVE FALLON SLOVENIA Cost is $16.00 ($13.95 plus $2.05 postage and handling) Slovenian Women’s Union is proud to bring our members and friends the availability of SLOVENIA at nominal cost and convenience. Please send your orders to Slovenian Women’s Union 431 No. Chicago Street Joliet, IL 60432